mjölk architekti wraps its cottage pod bukovou in a skin of blackened timber

The Dwell House, a one-bedroom backyard house designed by Norm Architects in collaboration with Abodu, exemplifies Scandinavian simplicity through its focus on natural materials and light-filled spaces. Spanning 540 square feet, the design aims for warmth and tactility, making it versatile as a guesthouse, pool house, office, or gym. The lead architect, Sofie Thorning of Norm Architects, explains that the design process involved balancing broad appeal with a unique aesthetic, without a specific client. The team focused on elements that generally foster a sense of well-being, utilizing a simple and timeless design language to evoke comfort. A key feature of the Dwell House is its exterior cladding, which utilizes Real Cedar siding. This material is available in a natural or black finish and was chosen for its quality, durability, and high design appeal. The cedar seamlessly integrates with other premium materials, such as the building’s standing-seam aluminum roof and engineered oak floors. William Hanley, Dwell’s editor-in-chief, emphasized the deliberate choice of Real Cedar due to its authenticity as a wood cladding, its support from a consortium of mills, and its natural weathering properties. Furthermore, the wood is sourced from sustainably managed forests, contributing to a reduced environmental footprint for the home. Cedar’s inherent resilience makes it resistant to rot, decay, weather, and insects, ensuring a low-maintenance exterior. The material’s natural properties also mean it is free of pitch or resin, allowing for easy customization with stains, oils, and finishes. This flexibility in color and appearance was a significant factor in selecting Western Red Cedar, particularly for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) designed to complement various architectural styles of main homes. Hanley highlighted that the design objective was to create a structure that looks equally appropriate behind a Mission Revival or a contemporary house, while still maintaining its distinct character through details like the varying widths of the cedar cladding. The Dwell House’s exterior design elements, including the vertical cedar slats, contribute to a sophisticated facade. These slats are complemented by outdoor sconces from Brendan Ravenhill, which provide adjustable and dimmable light. The interplay of natural warmth, grain, and variability of the cedar creates a dynamic appearance, particularly when illuminated by sunlight. The thoughtful material palette, which includes the aluminum roof and window exteriors alongside the wood cladding, ensures a cohesive and visually harmonious design. The result is a backyard home that blends functionality with a refined, tactile aesthetic, designed to enhance well-being and seamlessly integrate into diverse residential settings. #DwellHouse #ScandinavianDesign #RealCedar #ADUDesign #NaturalMaterials #SustainableDesign #NormArchitects #ExteriorCladding #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalDetails

Starling Architecture and Emily Lindberg Design collaborated to renovate a Brooklyn townhouse for a young family, transforming it into a 3,700-square-foot, four-bedroom single-family home. The project aimed to address the original house's sparse, chopped-up layout and lack of design features, which primarily consisted of white gypsum. The core design challenge was to elevate the space, introduce warmth, and create a cohesive design language throughout the property. The solution centered around an elegant, light European oak palette, supplied by Madera, a company specializing in seamless wood design solutions. This material choice became the catalyst for the entire renovation, influencing the design across all four floors and the basement. The initial brief involved combining a two-family townhouse into a larger single-family residence, incorporating a mudroom, work-from-home spaces, and an expanded dining room. The renovation process began with the decision to replace the parlor flooring with light oak, which ultimately extended to all areas. A cantilevered oak stair and linear wood screen were integrated to run through the entire home, serving as a unifying element that creates balance and harmony. This central feature also guided the development of a rhythmic “wood and slat” design language, evident in the custom millwork, wall paneling, and ceiling treatments throughout the house. The first floor now features an entry foyer and living room, with a timber volume housing a mudroom, powder room, and home office. The second floor includes a foyer, sitting room, an oak-clad dining room, and a kitchen. The third floor is dedicated to the primary suite and a guest room, while the fourth floor contains two children’s bedrooms and bathrooms. Even the windowless basement was dramatically transformed into a welcoming playroom, extending the wooden stair and screen element downwards. Madera's expertise allowed for precise customization of wood components, with each panel CNC-fabricated and finished in Belgium to exact specifications, ensuring consistent veneer widths. This level of control resulted in subtle yet stunning outcomes, as noted by architect Ian Starling. Madera’s ability to produce wide, long, seamless timber materials contributed to the minimalist yet rich interiors. The use of timber extends beyond flooring and stairs to millwork, architectural cladding, the batten screen, and custom furniture like the bespoke dining bench with integrated storage and floating nightstands. The design intentionally varies the application of wood in each space to create distinct effects, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic while offering unique tactile experiences. The project also reconfigured the layout, moving the kitchen from a dark central location to the south facade to maximize natural light and improve access to the dining area. This enhanced natural light highlights the rich material palette, which includes the tonal depth of oak, walnut, and ash, complemented by combed plaster and slate. The office, for instance, is almost entirely clad in cork, demonstrating a diverse use of natural materials. The interior design incorporates warm yellows and brass accents to complement the golden oak hues, while shades of blue provide dynamic contrast. The overall aim was to infuse the home with character, warmth, and personality using a neutral oak palette as the foundation, resulting in a spacious and inviting environment for the family and their guests. #BrooklynTownhouse #HomeRenovation #EuropeanOak #WoodDesign #CustomMillwork #StarlingArchitecture #EmilyLindbergDesign #MaderaSurfaces #InteriorArchitecture

Bev Adam and Craig Shearn, residents of an 1800s double-fronted miner's cottage in Melbourne's inner north, undertook a significant renovation of their home with the help of designer David Flack of Flack Studio. The exterior of the cottage was painted in a dramatic, heritage 'Oxblood' by Porter’s Paints, a choice that garnered attention and conversation from neighbors, suggesting a potential trendsetting move. The homeowners, both involved in the property industry, sought a professional's expertise for their 'last and biggest hurrah' in renovating, aiming to create a space tailored solely for their enjoyment, rather than focusing on resale value. The renovation involved stripping the residence back to its bare bones and implementing a new scheme and footprint. The brief included establishing a new master wing with a wet area and walk-in wardrobe, a guest bedroom, a den, a powder room, and a spacious new extension. This redesign transformed four period bedrooms into two, prioritizing personal comfort and luxury over the original layout. The interior design showcases a blend of vintage and contemporary elements with a vibrant mix of hues and textures. A key feature of the updated home is the oversized open-plan kitchen, centered around a custom island bench with a honed white Arabescato stone top, mild black steel legs, and brass feet. An adjoining bar, backed by glossy green stone, complements the kitchen. David Flack also designed a cozy nook with a custom leather banquette, a Cassina armchair, a vintage Bonacina side table, and a cowhide, which he describes as a 'crazy little maximalist corner' filled with objects and art. This area, along with the bar, has become a popular spot for guests, fulfilling the homeowners' desire for a space that encourages regular entertaining. The furniture selection combines pieces accumulated by the couple over the years with newly sourced items, including vintage Italian, Danish, and contemporary Australian pieces. These are thoughtfully arranged, particularly under the cathedral ceiling at the rear of the house, overlooking a large fireplace and plunge pool. The main bedroom features walls painted in Porter’s Paints ‘Donkey Grey’ and copper linen curtains. Dulux’s ‘Royal Battle’, a rich Prussian blue, is used in the walk-in wardrobe and to accent the hand-glazed Spanish shower tiles in the ensuite, which David discovered locally. Throughout the renovation, Flack Studio emphasized a methodology of 'testing and sculpting on site' to capture nuances and adapt designs, aiming for a project executed with integrity. The use of varied materials such as American oak timber veneer, polished plaster, steel frames, and Elba stone tiles further contributes to the home's unique character. The project successfully transformed an historic miner's cottage into a vibrant, personalized, and luxurious home that reflects the homeowners' desire for comfort, color, and a distinctive aesthetic. #FlackStudio #MelbourneCottage #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColourfulHome #VintageContemporaryMix #CustomDesign #LuxuryHome

The Landaburu Borda Country House project, situated within the Bera valley forest, involved the transformation of a centuries-old stone manor into a contemporary holiday lodging. Gorka Ibargoyen, the owner and developer, envisioned a space where guests could reconnect with nature, and collaborated with architect Jordi Hidalgo Tané to achieve this. The design approach focused on establishing a dialogue between traditional elements and modern design, craftsmanship and technology, while retaining the integrity of the original stone structure. A central element of the design was the extensive use of wood, reflecting the surrounding oak forest. PARKLEX PRODEMA's wood products were selected for various interior applications due to their material quality, ease of installation, and resistance to moisture and intensive use. The consistent application of a natural oak finish throughout the interiors was a key decision, aimed at creating a harmonious and serene atmosphere. This specific finish contributes to a stylistic coherence across different spaces within the house. Several areas within the Landaburu Borda Country House feature this natural oak finish. Vertical and horizontal walls, as well as ceilings, are clad with PARKLEX PRODEMA products. For flooring, NATURFLOOR-W was utilized in high-traffic areas such as the living room, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, and stairs. This particular product is a natural wood floor designed for intensive use and frequent transit, specifically in the Oak Country finish. The kitchen area showcases custom-made furniture and drawers beneath the dining room sill, all fabricated using NATURPANEL-W. This material was also applied to the wall separating the bedrooms from the bathrooms. NATURPANEL-W consists of natural wood panels that require minimal maintenance and share the same finish as the flooring, further enhancing the project's visual unity. In the bathrooms, specifically for shower walls and plates, NATURHARDPANEL-W panels were implemented, chosen for their suitability in wet zones. The 'Country Oak' finish, integral to the project's aesthetic, is derived from fine timber veneers. It is important to note that natural variations in color and grain may occur between different batches of this finish, and slight differences might exist between various products with the same finish due to applied coatings. The technical properties and versatility of PARKLEX PRODEMA's interior cladding range, including NATURFLOOR-W, NATURPANEL-W, and NATURHARDPANEL-W, allowed for the seamless integration of natural wood across horizontal and vertical surfaces, as well as custom furniture, effectively meeting specific installation and usage requirements throughout the Landaburu Borda Country House. #WoodFinishes #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #NaturalMaterials #HolidayLodging #OakWood #MoistureResistance #EasyInstallation #CountryHouse

The article details the creation of a new 7,517-square-foot cottage in Cottagewood, aiming to blend modern construction techniques with the soulful character of an older, Old World European home. Builder Kyle Hunt of Kyle Hunt & Partners, alongside architect Jean Rehkamp Larson, collaborated to achieve this vision for owners Bari Kessler and Dave Marantz. The design emphasizes natural materials, including recycled-timber beams, stone countertops, and custom metalwork, to evoke an aged sensibility and combine rustic and refined elements. The homeowners, having moved from Minneapolis to Lake Minnetonka for a simpler life closer to nature, desired a new home that felt established and rich with history. Bari Kessler, an interior designer with a passion for antiques, sought to create a tranquil retreat for her family, including three boys and two dogs. Her favorite space, a cozy family den, exemplifies this aesthetic, filled with patterns, textures, colors, and a collection of art, objects, and books. South Carolina-based interior designer Alecia Stevens assisted in integrating the couple's existing antiques, rugs, chairs, and paintings into the new design, layering pieces to create a lived-in and loved atmosphere. Kyle Hunt & Partners, a 32-year-old Deephaven company, specializes in crafting artisanal homes tailored to client needs. For this project, Hunt assembled a team of skilled artisans, including a stucco professional, plaster painter, metal smith, and cabinet maker, all committed to achieving the desired aged aesthetic. This commitment is evident in the custom cabinetry by Joe Michalski of Rosemount Woods, which features inset wood, exposed hinges, cup-shaped drawer pulls, and brass name plates, giving newly built cupboards the appearance of antiques. Similarly, Otto Painting Design created a unique hand-troweled patina for the plaster walls, further contributing to the home's historic feel. The home was also designed with the family's three boys in mind, incorporating child-friendly spaces. A miniature study hall with built-in desks and bookcases is situated outside their bedrooms, providing a homework area. The attic was transformed into a treehouse-like space, complete with a dedicated room for Legos. Another nook houses the family's guinea pigs, and bunk beds accommodate sleepovers. These elements ensure the reimagined cottage offers inspiring environments for both adults and children to thrive. Ultimately, the residence successfully marries new construction with an old soul, embodying the nostalgic comforts of home and reflecting the values and identity of its inhabitants. #homeDesign #oldWorldCharm #customHome #naturalMaterials #interiorDesign #artisanalCraftsmanship #familyHome #Cottagewood #KyleHuntAndPartners

Architect David Hicks designed Woodend house, located in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia, drawing inspiration from European vernacular architecture, particularly villas found in the French, Tuscan, and Puglian countryside. The house features a deliberate windowless facade, a design choice Hicks frequently employs to create intrigue and privacy. This approach ensures that the dwelling's interior experience is revealed only upon entry, rather than from the exterior. The single-story home was created for an older couple seeking to downsize, who had previously owned another windowless property designed by Hicks. Access to the Woodend house is gained through a wrought-iron arched gate situated on the side of the building, leading to a portico and then into an entrance vestibule. The interior walls throughout the house are rendered in micro cement and finished with limewash, imparting a stone-like texture. A vintage chandelier, made from ruched Murano glass, is a focal point in the vestibule, suspended from a circular recess in the ceiling. A central corridor extends from the vestibule, providing access to all the other rooms within the residence. Among the rooms is a 'retreat' area, functioning as a relaxed study and sitting room. This space is furnished with an Eames lounge chair, a multi-armed light fixture by French designer Serge Mouille, and a fireplace framed by a Ceppo marble surround. The same Ceppo marble is utilized for shelves within two arched display niches, adding a cohesive aesthetic element. Double doors connect the retreat to the principal bedroom, which is appointed with luxurious touches including a velvet rug, a satiny headboard, and fluted glass wall sconces. Storage solutions in the bedroom are subtly integrated behind white lacquered panels. The principal bedroom also features an en-suite bathroom where surfaces are covered in pale Calacatta marble. Large sliding glazed doors at the rear of the bathroom offer views of a small brick courtyard, which is adorned with a miniature maple tree. The main living area, a more formal space, contains white armchairs and a curved baby pink sofa, with sheer linen curtains covering French doors that open to the garden. The kitchen, integrated into this area, includes simple white cabinetry and a breakfast island topped with Calacatta marble. The home's powder room showcases extensive use of Ceppo marble, covering the walls, floor, and washbasin with its distinctive pattern. The photography for Woodend house was captured by Shannon McGrath. The project exemplifies a trend in Australian architecture for homes with striking, often unconventional, facades. Other notable examples include the Birdwood house by Peter Besley, which features a perforated screen of terracotta brick and metal mesh, and the Bangalow Road House by Son Studio, characterized by a wall of timber louvres that echo traditional wooden beach shacks. These designs collectively demonstrate a focus on unique exterior treatments that often contrast with rich and private interior spaces. #AustralianArchitecture #DavidHicks #WoodendHouse #VictoriaAustralia #WindowlessFacade #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #Marble #ResidentialArchitecture

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

Brussels studio Madam Architectuur has completed a renovation and extension project for a 1990s bungalow named Charlotte, located near Aalst, Belgium, on the outskirts of a nature reserve. The primary goal of the project was to enhance the dwelling's connection to its natural surroundings and improve its internal layout, which was previously deemed inefficient. The existing concrete structure was reconfigured, and an extension was added to achieve these objectives. A significant aspect of the renovation involved recladding the exterior with timber painted in a Falu red shade, a color originating from Sweden historically used to emulate red-brick buildings. This choice imbues the house with a distinctive appearance that is described as both striking and modest, contrasting effectively with the green landscape. Originally, the bungalow's bedrooms occupied the areas offering the best views of the landscape. Madam Architectuur strategically relocated these bedrooms into a new, simple extension that maintains the existing facade's outline. This allowed for the transformation of the prime view-facing areas into an expansive open-plan living, dining, and kitchen space. This new arrangement provides dual-aspect views, overlooking both the exterior landscape and a central internal patio, thereby fulfilling the design intent of integrating nature into the living experience. The main living spaces were designed to maximize natural light and views, creating a more engaging and open environment. The three new bedrooms were kept compact, consistent with the typical scale found in modernist bungalows. They are linked to the original part of the house by a wide corridor, which features a window at each end, allowing for light penetration and visual continuity. The interior design adopts a pared-back aesthetic, featuring white walls and pale wood fittings. These elements are deliberately contrasted with industrial touches such as blue-steel beams and exposed concrete ceilings. The decision to keep these structural elements visible was a conscious one, intended to add character to the house, especially after the removal of a suspended ceiling during demolition. Complementing the exterior's red cladding, the window and door frames throughout the interior are also painted in a bright red. This creates a cohesive color scheme that unifies the interior and exterior design and further enhances the visual connection between the home and its red timber facade. Door Smits, co-founder of Madam Architectuur, emphasized that the deep red color harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding greenery, making the house stand out while still being integrated into its environment. Madam Architectuur, founded by Door Smits and Marit Meganck, has undertaken other notable residential projects in Belgium, including an extension to a 1930s home featuring green ceramic tiles and pigmented concrete. The Charlotte renovation project exemplifies the studio's approach to updating existing structures, prioritizing improved spatial organization, enhanced connection with the environment, and a thoughtful balance between striking aesthetics and functional modesty. #ResidentialArchitecture #BungalowRenovation #TimberCladding #MadamArchitectuur #BelgianHouses #RedBuildings #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeExtension

The provided content offers a comprehensive overview of various wood treatment products designed for both interior and exterior applications. It highlights how these treatments can be utilized for furniture upcycling, garden protection, and general home refreshment. The selection includes essential categories such as wood preservatives, shed and fence paint, decking paint, varnishes, and wood stains. For interior projects, the article details options like undercoat and primer paints, furniture paint, cupboard paint, and specific interior wood paints. These products cater to diverse needs, from preparing surfaces for a new finish to adding a decorative touch or enhancing durability. The range of interior wood treatments ensures that homeowners can find suitable solutions for different types of wooden furniture and fixtures within their living spaces. Conversely, exterior wood treatments are showcased to protect and beautify outdoor wooden structures. Products like wood preservatives and shed and fence paint are crucial for safeguarding against environmental elements, extending the lifespan of garden sheds, fences, and other outdoor timber. Decking paint and garden furniture paint and stain provide specialized solutions for maintaining and revitalizing wooden decks and outdoor furniture, offering both protection and aesthetic appeal. The article also mentions specialized products such as wood dye, which allows for altering the color of wood while preserving its natural grain. To assist customers in making informed choices, exterior paint tester pots are available, enabling users to sample colors and finishes before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, a wide array of decorating and painting supplies is listed, ensuring that all necessary tools and accessories are accessible for any wood treatment project. The content is organized to guide users through different product types, emphasizing their specific applications and benefits. It implicitly suggests that proper wood treatment is vital for both the longevity and appearance of wooden items, whether indoors or outdoors. The variety of products available indicates a focus on providing solutions for various wood types and desired outcomes, from basic preservation to decorative enhancements. This structured approach helps users easily navigate the extensive product offerings to meet their specific project requirements. #WoodTreatments #InteriorWoodPaint #ExteriorWoodCare #FurnitureUpcycling #GardenMaintenance #DeckingPaint #WoodStain #Varnishes #HomeImprovement

The German architecture studio Buero Wagner has designed an extension named The Black House for a residence near Lake Ammersee in Munich, Germany. This extension stands out from the typical rural German architecture, which the studio describes as often characterized by urban sprawl, generic detached houses, and faceless villages. The Black House distinguishes itself through its carbonized facade, featuring a stack of differently sized rooms clad in blackened wood. The design leverages the site's topography, presenting a clear external arrangement of spaces such as a basement and a terrace. Internally, these spaces seamlessly blend to create large, overlapping areas, fostering a fluid entity where various functions and uses merge. The architects aimed to create a dynamic interplay between interior and exterior, and upper and lower levels within the dwelling. The extension incorporates a bedroom, kitchen, and living space. In the kitchen and dining area, a change in level defines the countertops, with a short staircase leading up to the living space. This living area extends outwards to form a concrete terrace, providing an outdoor living experience. A separate staircase descends to a basement bedroom, which includes an open bathroom and overlooks a small light well, situated adjacent to the main entrance. A notable architectural feature is the northwest corner, where a large opening with pivot windows allows for almost the entire corner to be opened to the terrace. This design choice creates a strong connection between the interior and the nearby forest, blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature. The main body of the extension is topped with a gabled roof, while a small mono-pitched section serves to connect The Black House to the existing residential structure. Throughout the interior, the material palette emphasizes unobtrusive finishes. Oiled oak lines the interior spaces, contrasting with the dark exterior. The concrete structure of the extension is left exposed and sandblasted, adding a textural element and revealing the raw construction materials. This project by Buero Wagner aligns with other contemporary designs in the region, such as Bembé Dellinger's cantilevering villa completed in 2011, which also sought to capitalize on the scenic setting of Lake Ammersee. The photography for The Black House was captured by Florian Holzherr. #BueroWagner #CharredTimber #LakeHouse #ResidentialExtension #BlackenedWood #MunichArchitecture #GermanDesign #ModernArchitecture #SustainableMaterials

Bridget McIntyre, a former TV presenter, and her husband, Anthony McDonald, purchased Tarnpirr Farm in Victoria’s Yarra Valley in 2013, a property Bridget had frequently visited in her youth. This 100-hectare farm, located on the edge of the Yarra Ranges at Narbethong, 87 kilometers north-east of Melbourne, serves as a retreat from city life and an adventure hub for their three sons: Max, Tom, and Angus. The homestead, built in 1928 by wealthy Melbourne entrepreneur James Robert Crooke as a weekend retreat, features dark timber cladding, a steep gabled roofline, and leadlight windows, nestled among a grove of oaks, maples, rhododendrons, and azaleas. Bridget has a deep sentimental connection to the region, having spent much of her childhood there. Her late father, a dentist, harbored a love for farming, which led the family to own various properties in Gippsland and near the Cathedral Ranges, and her mother still resides in Marysville. Anthony, a former AFL player turned finance broker, grew up on a farm, further cementing their shared appreciation for rural life. The couple's journey to acquire Tarnpirr Farm was unexpected. Anthony's father initially planned a surprise bird-watching trip that coincided with the auction, but the trip was canceled, allowing Anthony to attend. Despite the property being passed in at auction, they successfully purchased it two days later. The house, a former thoroughbred stud, was in need of significant renovation. Undeterred by the scale of the project, especially with young children, Bridget and Anthony embarked on a 14-month renovation with local builder Chris Oostendorp. Their approach was organic, involving the removal of walls and creation of new spaces while restoring existing ones. The grand formal lounge, known as the Lodge Room, required extensive work, including insulation and a complete overhaul of its cathedral ceiling, which was subsequently updated with seagrass wallpaper. The challenge of creating light downstairs was addressed by working with the massive dark blackwood beams, which were hand-cut by artisans from the UK. The upstairs area was reconfigured to create more spacious bedrooms. Bridget meticulously selected fabrics and furniture to achieve a classic, light, and fresh aesthetic, with an aspiration for a Hamptons-like feel upstairs. The kitchen's existing red-brick hearth and tiled splashback were retained. The sofas in the Lodge Room, which came with the property, were re-covered in a gingham fabric. A French polisher was engaged to subdue the gold brass chandelier, complementing the oak trees outside. Decorative elements include a white lamp with a vintage French linen tablecloth shade, a cobbler’s shoe tree, a Ralph Lauren print, and a plaid armchair. The bedroom features a Foxford tartan blanket, a wool blanket from Creswick Woollen Mills, and a deer chair from Gaudion Furniture. After the initial year, they opened Tarnpirr’s garden to the public, which was met with appreciation from locals, particularly given its survival of the Black Saturday fires. Bridget, who grew up riding horses, was eager to reintroduce them to the farm. Having previously lost a horse and with two young children, she initially acquired two miniature donkeys, Felix and Carlotta. Following the major renovations, a stockhorse thoroughbred cross named Alma also joined the animals. The farm provides an ideal environment for their sons, offering freedom and adventure, including a river with platypi, contributing to a balanced family life. The family feels they have achieved the best of both worlds by combining city life with their rural retreat. #TudorStyle #Homestead #YarraValley #FarmLife #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CountryLiving #FamilyHome #HistoricProperty

This article outlines the extensive range of timber products offered by Wickes, catering to various home renovation and garden landscaping projects. It emphasizes Wickes' reputation for supplying high-quality timber, including softwood, sawn kiln-dried, sawn treated, and studwork timber, all designed to provide flexibility and strength for a lasting finish, whether used indoors or outdoors. The article categorizes the timber products into several key areas, making it easier for customers to find specific materials for their needs. The range includes various timber supplies such as wall panels, all-purpose timber, trade timber, and planed square edge (PSE) timber, which are essential for structural and finishing work. Mouldings are also highlighted, offering decorative options for interior spaces. For outdoor projects, the article features garden and outdoor fencing, garden and railway sleepers, and timber decking boards, providing materials for constructing fences, raised beds, and outdoor living areas. Additionally, specialized timber products like wooden floorboards, skirting boards, shiplap cladding, timber scaffold boards, and timber roof battens are available for specific construction and renovation tasks. Cladding options are detailed, including exterior timber cladding and interior timber wall cladding, catering to both external weather protection and internal aesthetic enhancements. The article also covers various timber-related accessories and fixings, such as window sills and boards, staircase parts, joist and truss hangers, brackets and straps, and different types of timber fixings like multipurpose screws, exterior timber screws, and joinery nails. These supplementary products ensure that customers have all the necessary components for secure and effective timber installations. The goal is to assist customers in selecting the appropriate timber and associated materials for building furniture, erecting sheds, or undertaking comprehensive home renovations, ensuring their visions are brought to life with durable and high-quality supplies. #TimberSupplies #BuildingMaterials #HomeRenovation #GardenLandscaping #Woodworking #DIYProjects #ConstructionTimber

This article explores the aesthetic and functional benefits of timber mouldings, which are high-quality and affordable decorative elements available at Wickes. It highlights a comprehensive range of pre-cut interior timber mouldings, including skirting, architrave, dowels, and quadrants, designed to add elegance and character to any living space. The article emphasizes that these mouldings serve as perfect finishing touches, enhancing the visual appeal of walls, windows, and doors, and contributing to a cohesive interior design. It details various types of mouldings offered, such as wall panels, decorative mouldings, stripwood, beading, angle trim, dado and picture rails, quadrant mouldings, covers, skirting boards, scotia beading, and wooden dowels. Each category is briefly introduced, showcasing the diversity of options available to homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. The article positions these mouldings as easy to install, catering to both professional builders and individuals undertaking home improvement projects. It suggests that by incorporating these elements, homeowners can elevate the aesthetic of their interiors, creating a more refined and finished look. The availability of different styles ensures that there is a moulding solution to match various architectural preferences and interior design themes. The piece also provides practical advice, recommending that customers consider complementary products like paints and primers to achieve professional-grade results and complete their decoration projects. This guidance underscores the importance of a holistic approach to home renovation, where mouldings play a crucial role in tying together different design elements. The overall message is that these timber mouldings are not just decorative but also instrumental in adding a sophisticated and complete look to any room, offering both charm and structural definition to a home's interior. #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #TimberMouldings #DIYHomeImprovement #ArchitecturalDetails #WallPanels #SkirtingBoards #DecorativeElements

The article introduces PARKLEX PRODEMA, a line of natural wood veneer cladding products designed for both interior and exterior architectural applications. These products are manufactured by Network Architectural and are notable for their maintenance-free properties and aesthetic appeal, combining the warmth and texture of real wood with enhanced durability and performance. The cladding is engineered to withstand various environmental conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial and residential projects. PARKLEX PRODEMA cladding features a high-density bakelized paper core and a natural wood veneer surface. This surface is treated with a proprietary resin and subjected to high pressure and temperature, resulting in a product that is highly resistant to impact, scratching, and adverse weather conditions. The manufacturing process ensures that the wood veneer retains its natural appearance while gaining significant structural integrity and longevity. This treatment also contributes to its low maintenance requirement, as it does not need varnishing, oiling, or other typical wood treatments over its lifespan. Key advantages of PARKLEX PRODEMA include its exceptional durability, which allows it to maintain its aesthetic and structural properties over time without significant degradation. The material is also resistant to UV radiation, moisture, and extreme temperatures, preventing warping, fading, or cracking. This makes it an ideal choice for building facades, soffits, ceilings, and interior wall linings in diverse climates. Furthermore, the cladding offers versatility in design due to its natural wood aesthetic, available in various wood species and finishes. This allows architects and designers to incorporate the timeless appeal of wood into modern and traditional designs without compromising on performance. The material's lightweight nature and ease of installation also contribute to its appeal, simplifying construction processes and reducing labor costs. Network Architectural provides comprehensive support for PARKLEX PRODEMA products, including detailed brochures and technical specifications to assist with project planning and implementation. The company's focus on innovative and sustainable building materials aligns with current industry trends towards eco-friendly and long-lasting solutions. The use of natural wood veneers in these products also supports a biophilic design approach, connecting occupants with natural elements and potentially enhancing well-being within built environments. Overall, PARKLEX PRODEMA offers a high-performance, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable solution for natural wood cladding in contemporary architecture. #PARKLEXPRODEMA #WoodCladding #NaturalVeneer #MaintenanceFree #ArchitecturalMaterials #ExteriorCladding #InteriorDesign #SustainableBuilding #NetworkArchitectural

Maka Arkitektur designed Summerhouse Bjäre, a contemporary holiday home located in a coastal village on Sweden's Bjäre peninsula. The design objective was to create a simplified interpretation of traditional local houses, characterized by their pitched roofs and unadorned materials, while integrating modern elements and adapting the structure to its specific site. The architects sought to achieve a timeless aesthetic that echoes traditional building techniques, such as brick and stone courtyard houses, yet remains distinctly contemporary in its execution. The 500-square-meter property was conceived to accommodate three generations of a single family, necessitating an efficient use of space that simultaneously preserves ample outdoor areas. The house features a straightforward orthogonal layout, comprising a primary living volume and two wings positioned at either end. One of these wings functions as a detached guest annex, offering enhanced privacy. This configuration of interconnected volumes is strategically arranged around a central courtyard garden, providing shelter from the strong coastal winds prevalent in the exposed fishing village. The courtyard also benefits from the shade of a mature cherry tree, enhancing comfort during summer months. The ground floor of the main building houses the social areas, including the living room, kitchen, and dining area, all of which are situated along the perimeter of the courtyard. Expansive glazed surfaces, fitted with sliding doors, allow these interior spaces, along with the guest house, to seamlessly open onto the garden, fostering an indoor-outdoor living experience. A staircase near the entrance leads to the upper floor, which contains two bedrooms and a lounge area. This lounge space overlooks a void that vertically connects the two levels of the house. Additionally, a door on the upper floor provides access to a roof terrace, offering panoramic views of the village rooftops and the surrounding ocean. In contrast to the open and permeable facades facing the courtyard, the gabled front facade, which is visible from the street, incorporates minimal openings. This side of the house is further defined by flanking walls and fences that shield the garden from public view, ensuring privacy. The exterior walls are finished with a lime stucco, creating a homogenous, textured surface. This is complemented by a meticulously detailed pre-patinated zinc roof, with copper and brass accents introducing warmth to the overall material palette. The interior design emphasizes natural materials, evident in the oak flooring and solid timber joinery used throughout the home. The furniture selection combines classic Scandinavian pieces from designers such as Bruno Mathsson, Borge Mogensen, and Märta Maas-Fjetterström with contemporary items by brands like Massproductions, Örsjö, Pandul, and Norrgavel. This curated blend contributes to a design that feels both timeless and modern. The project was undertaken by Maka Arkitektur, with Ylva der Hagopian and Daniel Hedner as key members of the project team. The photography documenting the summerhouse was captured by Åke E:son Lindman. The design successfully marries traditional Swedish architectural elements with contemporary needs, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing holiday home for multi-generational use. #HolidayHome #SwedishArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #GabledRoof #CoastalLiving #MultiGenerationalHome #ModernDesign #NaturalMaterials

Elma Blint's Carroll Gardens townhouse, featured on Design Sponge, showcases a modern, textured, and unique decor that mirrors her jewelry designs. The three-bedroom duplex skillfully blends high-design furniture with vibrant textiles, creating an original and character-filled ambiance. The design approach emphasizes the use of patterned pillows, blankets, and rugs to introduce color and visual interest without causing clutter. For instance, a throw blanket on the couch cushions not only protects them from spills but also infuses a bohemian touch into the modern furniture piece. The living space exemplifies this aesthetic, contrasting the sleek simplicity of a clear acrylic coffee table with red-splashed textiles sourced from superfussy and Martine's Dream. A gold pouf from Collyer’s Mansion further contributes to the eclectic mix. This textile-centric style extends into the master bedroom, where patterned fabrics elevate the bed into a central focal point against slate blue walls. A rope-strung wall hanging above the bed offers a contemporary interpretation of macramé, adding another layer of texture and artistic flair. Additionally, a large vanity mirror is strategically placed to enhance the perception of a more expansive room, demonstrating an understanding of spatial dynamics in interior design. This home illustrates how textiles and textures can be employed to define distinct areas and moods within a residence, merging functional elements with artistic expression to achieve a cohesive yet individualistic living environment in a Brooklyn townhouse. #CarrollGardens #InteriorDesign #TextileDecor #BohemianStyle #TownhouseLiving #ElmaBlint #BrooklynHome