Product watch: Illuminated wall niches from Schlüter-Systems

The post-pandemic landscape is expected to see a significant emphasis on wellness across all facets of the hotel experience, extending beyond traditional spa facilities. This shift suggests a growing trend where clients may allocate larger portions of their budget towards enhancing the luxury and functionality of private bathrooms. One effective and elegant solution to elevate bathroom aesthetics and practicality is the integration of wall niches. These built-in storage areas offer a sleek design and are easy to maintain, directly addressing the demand for both style and hygiene in modern hotel accommodations. However, the traditional method of creating wall niches can be labor-intensive and complicated, often requiring precise cutting and individual sealing of numerous edges and corners, even for experienced installers. Schlüter Systems addresses this challenge with its innovative Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD-N range. These pre-fabricated niches for tile and stone applications simplify the installation process considerably. They feature a perfect waterproofing solution through their Schlüter-KERDI coating, ensuring seamless integration into the wall surface and providing long-lasting durability. For enhanced functionality and design versatility, Schlüter-KERDI-BOARD-N niches are available in formats that allow for two levels of storage, complete with a positionable shelf suitable for various tile or stone finishes. This adaptability enables designers to customize the storage solutions to match specific aesthetic and functional requirements of any bathroom space. Furthermore, to complement these niches or to serve as standalone features, Schlüter-SHELF-N offers elegant shelf options crafted from brushed stainless steel or texture-coated aluminum. These shelves are designed for integration during the tile installation phase, providing a cohesive and sophisticated look. Beyond integrated niches, standalone designer shelves are another key element in creating visually appealing storage without compromising the integrity of the bathroom's waterproofing. Traditional shelf installations often involve drilling through tiles or grout lines, which can puncture the waterproofing membrane, or relying on less secure adhesive or suction cup attachments. Schlüter-SHELF products circumvent these issues by offering drill-free installation methods that ensure both a secure bond and a clean finish. The Schlüter-SHELF-W, for instance, is installed within the wall during tiling, with its anchoring legs discreetly covered by tiles. This design not only makes the shelf unobtrusive but also guarantees robust support for significant loads. For smaller showers and wet rooms, where space optimization is crucial, corner shelves provide an ideal solution for discrete storage. The Schlüter-SHELF-E is a versatile corner shelf that can be retrofitted into existing tiled walls or installed during new construction, making it suitable for various project stages. The aesthetic appeal of Schlüter-SHELF products is further enhanced by a diverse selection of finishes. Options such as brushed stainless steel offer a timeless elegance, while textured shelves in colors like ivory, stone grey, and dark graphite allow for visual integration with different interior design palettes. When used in showers and wet rooms, the shelf design can also be coordinated with shower grate designs, such as the curve and floral patterns from the KERDI-LINE-STYLE and KERDI-DRAIN-STYLE ranges, to create a harmonized and sophisticated overall finish. Whether the goal is to update an existing bathroom or incorporate new storage solutions into a renovation, Schlüter Systems provides stylish and practical options to meet individual design preferences. #BathroomDesign #HotelWellness #SchlüterSystems #WallNiches #ShelvingSolutions #TileInstallation #Waterproofing #InteriorDesign #ProductInnovation

The Gala chandelier, designed by American lighting designers Rich Brilliant Willing (RBW), features glowing glass bulbs suspended from aluminum rods. The design draws inspiration from nature, with RBW describing it as resembling "full, ripe fruit hanging on a branch." These chandeliers were showcased at New York Design Week. The Gala chandelier is characterized by its curvaceous, organic forms that are arranged along a robust linear aluminum arm. The hand-blown glass bulbs, crafted by a local glassblower, are connected to the aluminum rods using fixings that resemble basket handles. This handcrafted element emphasizes artisan skills and craft, which RBW aimed to further explore in their 2013 collection. The glassblowing technique, a method dating back to the middle of the last century BC, involves using a blowpipe and significant lung strength to shape molten glass into the desired form. The aluminum rods are available in three different lengths: 42 inches, 72 inches, and 114 inches. These rods can be paired with a selection of small, large, or long glass bulbs, allowing for versatile configuration. Designers can arrange the bulbs in either symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns along the rod, providing flexibility in design and aesthetic appeal. The sleek aluminum beam supports these hand-blown glass elements, intending to introduce warmth and subtle character to contemporary interior spaces. The name "Gala" also evokes a sense of festive celebration, and the warm glow emitted by the orbs of light is intended to contribute to this spirited atmosphere. Discreet powered cables connect the aluminum beam to the ceiling, ensuring a clean and uncluttered installation. All RBW products, including the Gala chandelier, are hand-assembled in their studio, underscoring the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and quality. In addition to the Gala chandelier, RBW also launched a wall-mounted bedside lamp at New York Design Week. This lamp, known as the Monocle lamp, is designed to swivel, allowing users to direct light precisely where needed. This reflects RBW's broader focus on innovative and functional lighting solutions. Other recent lighting innovations from the design community include pendant lamps with raised collars that direct light both upward and downward, and floor lamps featuring shades that mirror the design of their bases, showcasing a diverse range of approaches to lighting design. #ProductNews #Lighting #Chandeliers #RichBrilliantWilling #Design #Glassblowing #InteriorDesign #NewYorkDesignWeek #Lamps

This article highlights the innovative use of an aluminum ceiling system by Durlum in the expanded entrance area of a museum, which is part of a larger memorial complex. The museum, located beneath an archway, recently underwent an expansion designed by James Carpenter Design Associates and Cooper Robertson. The core of this renovation involved the integration of a custom-designed ceiling solution provided by Durlum. The new entrance, designed to guide visitors from an adjacent park into the subterranean museum space, features a ceiling that plays a crucial role in shaping the visitor experience. The design emphasizes a smooth flow of movement, which is visually reinforced by the ceiling's unique structure. The suspended ceiling comprises oblong panels crafted from highly reflective aluminum. These panels are backed with fleece, contributing to both the aesthetic and potentially acoustic properties of the space. The subtle curvature of these panels, along with their gradual narrowing towards the rear, creates an optical effect that enhances the sense of progression into the museum. Adding another layer to this sophisticated design, special suspended aluminum pipes form the outer layer of the ceiling. These pipes, approximately 76 mm in diameter, are extruded and finished with a signal white powder coating. Their arrangement is deliberate, running transversely to the main walking direction of visitors. This orientation, combined with the reflective nature of the ceiling panels, ensures that light within these tubes is effectively reflected downwards. The result is an environment immersed in diffuse light, contributing to a soft and inviting atmosphere within the museum's entrance foyer. This bespoke ceiling solution by Durlum demonstrates a blend of functional design and aesthetic appeal, specifically tailored to complement the architectural vision of the museum expansion and enhance the visitor's journey. #Durlum #AluminumCeiling #MuseumDesign #InteriorConstruction #ArchitecturalLighting #CustomDesign #ReflectiveSurfaces #DiffusedLighting

Architects Serene Kim and Elliot Meier, recognizing a common challenge in the design world, have launched Equal Equal, a new lighting studio dedicated to creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing light fixtures. The ongoing joke among architects and interior designers highlights the common issue where a visually striking light fixture often fails to adequately illuminate a room. Kim and Meier, having consistently encountered this problem on various projects, began custom-designing fixtures to bridge this gap between form and function. Their accumulated experience over a decade in crafting bespoke lighting solutions for projects ultimately led to the official launch of Equal Equal in May. The studio's name, Equal Equal, draws inspiration from the architectural symbol for equidistant length, 'EQ', reflecting their commitment to precise and balanced design. The company offers made-to-order pieces directly to consumers, encapsulating the architects' meticulous approach to design. Equal Equal's initial offerings include two distinct collections: the Frankie and the Vianne. The Frankie collection features classic ceramic lights, meticulously pressed and glazed in their New York City studio. These lights are highly customizable, available in an extensive palette of 18 color and glaze combinations. Expanding on the Frankie collection, the Sena light incorporates a hand-blown glass shade atop a Frankie light base, allowing for playful and unique color pairings that enhance the visual appeal. The Vianne collection introduces the Jessica pendant, a design that pays homage to the vibrant glasswork prevalent in 1920s French collectives, known for their bold colors and distinctive shapes. The glass components for the Jessica pendant are custom-produced at Brooklyn's KEEP studio, ensuring unique craftsmanship. Kim and Meier then personally assemble these pieces, integrating them with warm, contemporary hardware to create a harmonious blend of vintage inspiration and modern sensibility. The Jessica pendant is designed for versatility, capable of enhancing diverse spaces, from a dining area with a wooden table to a bathroom featuring tiled walls. Meier humorously likens the fixture's role to an award-winning supporting actor in a film, emphasizing its crucial yet complementary function. Despite the potentially bold color combinations, such as a pink-and-yellow sconce in a white-walled hallway, Kim and Meier encourage clients to embrace an open-minded approach to design. Kim articulates their philosophy, stating their goal is to demonstrate that color accents do not need to be overtly loud to create a significant impact. They believe that often, the most unexpected color combinations can result in the most harmonious and visually appealing outcomes, challenging traditional notions of color application in interior lighting. #LightingDesign #ArchitecturalLighting #CeramicLighting #GlassArt #HomeDecor #CustomLighting #InteriorDesign #ProductLaunch

Glass partition walls are a versatile and aesthetically pleasing design element gaining traction as a contemporary alternative to traditional internal walls, particularly in modernist and mid-century homes. These partitions offer numerous benefits, including opening up layouts, maintaining defined areas, enhancing natural light flow, and providing architectural interest. They are increasingly favored over completely open-concept living spaces, especially in the post-pandemic era, as they address issues such as noise and a lack of coziness often associated with fully open plans. Experts in interior design and architecture advocate for glass partitions as a means to achieve "broken-plan living," which strikes a balance between openness and defined zones. Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors highlights that glazed partitions allow light to freely permeate spaces while effectively separating areas for diverse uses and privacy without completely isolating them. Mike Stiff, director of Stiff + Trevillion architects, notes that glass partition walls ensure light flow, help maintain warmth within homes, and facilitate the creation of quiet zones. Architect Phil Coffey emphasizes their utility where a fully open-plan kitchen or living space is not desired, but a visual connection to an adjacent room, outdoor areas, or windows is beneficial. This approach can be particularly effective in entrance halls, where a glass wall can replace a solid partition to create a more expansive feel. Interior decorator and architect Natalia Miyar underscores the importance of glass divisions in creating divides without sacrificing light. She incorporates zoning into her early design process to determine the lifestyle of a space, viewing glass walls as both a feature and a functional tool for separating distinct areas. Miyar suggests that while the concept of living in a series of boxes with solid walls is fading, the need for defined areas for different purposes remains, and glass walls skillfully meet this demand. Choosing the right type of glass is crucial for a successful partition. Max de Rosee of De Rosee Sa architecture and design studio recommends considering options like clear, frosted, ribbed, or textured glass. He expresses a preference for ribbed glass to provide privacy and its slightly retro appeal, while advising against frosted glass due to its corporate aesthetic. Sara Cosgrove, an interior designer, observes a trend of fluted glass transitioning from hospitality settings to residential projects, praising its ability to maximize light and add texture. Mirrored glass offers another alternative, creating an illusion of expanded space and providing more privacy, making it suitable for creating cozy home offices or studies, as suggested by Clara Ewart, head of design at Kitesgrove. Strategic placement of glass partition walls is also important. In functional areas like kitchens and utility spaces, Tom Cox of Hám Interiors advises planning furniture layouts first. Semi-glazed walls are particularly effective in kitchens, allowing for cupboard runs beneath the glazed portion while maintaining an airy feel. These partitions are also practical for containing cooking smells and kitchen sounds, addressing common drawbacks of open-plan designs. For older homes, architect Richard Parr suggests two approaches: either being historically authentic to the building's era by replicating original glass panel sizes, ironmongery, and details, or intentionally inserting contemporary glazed partitions that celebrate modern design through frameless installations, structural use of glass and silicon, and maximizing sheet glass sizes. This flexibility allows glass partition walls to be integrated into diverse architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary. #GlassPartitionWalls #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ModernLiving #BrokenPlanLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #SpacePlanning #NaturalLight #DesignTrends

Nanoleaf, a Canadian smart-lighting startup, has launched Aurora, a set of smart LED panels designed for wall mounting. These triangular panels, approximately 9 inches on each side, can be connected to form various shapes and designs. A starter kit includes nine panels, with expansion packs of three panels available for more elaborate configurations. The panels connect via small chips, and only the initial panel requires a power outlet. Each Aurora panel offers a spectrum of millions of colors, allowing for diverse lighting effects. Users can illuminate each panel with a distinct color, apply a uniform shade across all panels, or activate animated scenes that simulate natural phenomena like sunrises or waterfalls. Control over Aurora is managed through a dedicated app compatible with both iPhone and Android devices. The app intelligently identifies the panel arrangement and mirrors it on the user's phone interface. Within the app, users can adjust colors, brightness, and animation speed. For basic functionality, a physical button on the main panel allows for simple on/off control without needing the app. Aurora also integrates with Apple HomeKit, enabling control through the HomeKit ecosystem. While Aurora panels offer a visually appealing design element, they are not intended as primary light sources. Testing indicated that the panels do not produce neutral lighting, making them unsuitable for typical illumination needs. Therefore, individuals seeking traditional lighting solutions may find Aurora disappointing. The product is positioned as a decorative wall art piece, better suited for spaces like media rooms or game rooms rather than living rooms or offices, due to its bright and colorful output that might be overwhelming for prolonged viewing. Installation of Aurora panels can be challenging. The connections between panels are not consistently secure, necessitating careful mounting of each panel to ensure stability. Precision in measuring and leveling is crucial to maintain the integrity of the desired design. The kit includes 3M damage-free hanging strips with pullable tabs for easy removal. However, removing panels while concealing the tabs can be difficult. Despite these installation hurdles, Aurora can enhance a plain wall for those with the patience for mounting and a creative vision for panel arrangement. The Aurora starter kit, comprising nine panels, retails for $199.99, and a three-panel expansion pack costs $59.99. The pricing reflects its classification as wall art rather than mere lighting. For individuals primarily seeking smart, HomeKit-enabled lighting, alternative smart bulb options, including those from Nanoleaf, may be more practical. However, for those desiring a unique wall art installation and willing to manage a potentially difficult installation process, Aurora presents a viable option. #SmartLighting #LEDPanels #HomeDecor #WallArt #NanoleafAurora #SmartHome #HomeKit #InteriorDesign

Alberto Caiola designed a distinctive exhibition booth for Herman Miller's retailer Van Collection at Design Shanghai 2021, China's premier showcase for international design brands, architects, and interior designers. The booth's design was inspired by Herman Miller’s brand heritage, incorporating a quote from Gilbert Rhode, the firm’s first design director, which states: 'The most important thing in the room is not the furniture – it’s the people.' This quote was prominently displayed on the back wall and served as a central theme for the exhibition. Caiola's design reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered perceptions and functions of the home, leading to new demands for flexible living spaces. The booth ingeniously uses perspective and light to present Herman Miller's furniture as practical solutions for these evolving needs. A notable feature of the design is its unconventional lighting approach. Breaking from traditional exhibition lighting, which typically spotlights products from above, Caiola opted to illuminate the displayed furniture entirely from below using illuminated floor tiles. This technique not only visually reinforced the theme of seeing the home in a 'different light' but also subtly emphasized the central quote by drawing attention to the people interacting with the space rather than just the furniture itself. The underfoot lighting created a unique, almost ethereal atmosphere, providing visitors with an extraordinary sensory experience. An intriguing consequence of the bottom-up lighting was the absence of shadows cast by visitors as they moved through the exhibit. This cinematic and somewhat surreal effect was intended to allude to the disorienting experience of the pandemic, where the passage of time and daily routines blurred, similar to how the absence of shadows can obscure temporal cues. The design aimed to evoke the listlessness and urgency that many experienced during periods of lockdown. The booth was structured into four distinct areas, or 'rooms,' delineated by gridded partitions. These areas were configured to represent various domestic settings: a living area, a gaming space, a home office, and a dining room. The intended function of each space was communicated through a carefully selected arrangement of freestanding furniture. The gridded walls served a dual purpose, simultaneously opening up and obscuring the booth's layout. The depth of these partitions meant that visitors' views into adjacent rooms varied depending on their position and angle of observation. Similarly, the central quote on the booth’s backdrop, positioned behind one of these fiber-reinforced paneled walls, was only fully visible from specific perspectives. This design element subtly referenced a common experience during the pandemic: the fragmented glimpses into others' work-life spaces shared through video calls and the new hybrid work-from-home conditions. The entire setup, comprising freestanding pieces within a fully modular system, was intentionally designed for reusability. Both the illuminated floor tiles and the partition walls can be reconfigured to adapt to different dimensions required for future furniture fairs, underscoring a commitment to flexibility and sustainability in exhibition design. #HermanMiller #AlbertoCaiola #DesignShanghai #ExhibitionDesign #IlluminatedTiles #GriddedPanels #FlexibleLiving #PostPandemicDesign #ModularDesign

Rich Brilliant Willing (RBW), a New York-based design firm, introduced Queue, a linear LED pendant system, at ICFF 2015. This lighting solution aims to address the shortcomings of traditional office lighting, offering a more dynamic and aesthetically pleasing alternative to the common overhead fluorescent fixtures often found in corporate environments. Queue is designed with a modernist sensibility, yet it transcends the rigid order and repetition typically associated with such designs by allowing for variations in height and lighting direction. The system comprises extruded aluminum sections, each 44 inches in length, which can be interconnected like train cars. This modularity enables users to create diverse lighting configurations, providing both direct and ambient light either upwards or downwards. The design seeks to inject softness and organic roundness into fixtures, a contrast to the often harsh and impersonal nature of standard workplace lighting. While conceived for office spaces, its versatile design makes it suitable for various settings, including bars or residential kitchens, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Alex Williams, a co-founder of RBW, explains that Queue is their interpretation of typical architectural lighting products, elevating the concept of a simple aluminum box with a fluorescent tube. The system allows for dynamic changes in height and flexible connectivity, pushing the boundaries of conventional linear lighting. Theo Richardson, another co-founder, emphasizes the deliberate effort to imbue the form with a softer, more organic aesthetic, a departure from the angularity often found in workplace fixtures. Queue is assembled in Brooklyn and utilizes high-end LED boards sourced from the Netherlands. These components enable the system to deliver exceptionally warm color temperatures, contributing to a more pleasant and comfortable lighting experience. The system also features two lens profiles, further enhancing its adaptability and lighting quality. Rich Brilliant Willing anticipates that Queue will enter production soon, with shipping expected to commence by late September. The company plans to maintain a stock of the product, ensuring a lead time of 1-3 weeks for orders. This product represents an innovative approach to architectural lighting, blending functional efficiency with refined design to create more engaging and human-centric spaces. #lightingDesign #LEDLighting #pendantSystem #RichBrilliantWilling #ICFF2015 #architecturalLighting #officeLighting #modernDesign #productLaunch

The article explores the transformative power of sheer materials in home design, highlighting their ability to amplify natural light and create dramatic, ethereal spaces. Five designers share their expertise on using translucency and transparency to enhance interiors. Rooshad Shroff, a Mumbai-based architect and interior designer, discusses his innovative marble lightbulbs. Despite marble's opaque nature, Shroff's team painstakingly hollowed out blocks of white Makrana marble to a 6mm thickness, hand-carving them with patterns inspired by crystal glass. These delicate marble bulbs are then fitted with LEDs, allowing light to pass through the carved texture, creating unique and beautiful effects. This process required over 40 attempts, showcasing the dedication to pushing material boundaries. Belgian design studio WeWantMore utilizes sheer, lightweight fabric to create captivating light and shadow play in their projects, exemplified by the gastronomic restaurant Cult in Bruges. The studio's design for Cult emphasizes chiaroscuro, contrasting strong natural light with a dark, richly textured interior. Sheer curtains strategically placed allow diffused daylight into the dining space, generating rippling shadows and a calming, water-like quality. This technique offers privacy while maintaining an intimate, filtered glow. Linda Morey-Burrows, founder and principal director of StudioMorey, showcases an imaginative use of glass with a chandelier made from recycled spectacle lenses by British artist Stuart Haygarth. Installed in her Bath home's hallway, this "Optical" chandelier not only glistens but also casts unexpected reflections that add movement and wonder to the space, particularly when light hits it at certain times of the day. The individual suspension of each lens amplifies this shimmering effect, demonstrating that transparent materials can be both practical and artistic. Susie Atkinson, founder and creative director of Studio Atkinson, discusses the use of sheer curtains in the bathroom of the Elizabeth Taylor Suite at Beaverbrook Country Hotel. The lightweight, fluid quality of these curtains, especially when catching a breeze, creates a romantic and ethereal aesthetic. Atkinson chose sheer fabric over heavier options or blinds to introduce texture that counterbalances cooler surfaces like tiled floors and sanitaryware. The diffused light through these curtains provides a beautiful ambiance throughout the day, with a delicate trim adding a sophisticated touch. Polly Ashman, founder of Polly Ashman Design, highlights the effectiveness of internal windows in maximizing natural light and connectivity within a home. In a family home in Hampshire, she incorporated an internal glass window to connect the kitchen and family snug while maintaining a degree of separation. Painted in a dark blue, this window serves as a striking focal point, framing both spaces brilliantly and ensuring light flow through the large rooms, which might otherwise feel closed off. Her work demonstrates how thoughtful design can balance openness with functional division. #SheerMaterials #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #MaterialInnovation #NaturalLight #HomeDecor #DesignHacks

Lumibright has introduced an innovative Integrated LED Handrail Lighting System, designed with a focus on both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. This system is engineered to provide unique lighting solutions with exceptional uniformity and photometric performance. A key aspect of its design is the elimination of the need to illuminate entire areas, thereby contributing to increased safety and security while maintaining minimal energy consumption. The LED Railing Module is a versatile system that integrates lighting directly into handrails. Constructed with a durable stainless steel body and boasting an IP67 waterproof rating, this lighting system is suitable for a wide array of interior and exterior applications. These include staircases, atrium surrounds, balconies, viewing galleries, ramp ways, pedestrian bridges, and walkways. Its robust build quality ensures reliability and longevity in various environmental conditions. A primary function of these handrail lights, particularly in public spaces, is to enhance safety and provide resistance against vandalism. The integrated lighting significantly improves visibility, which is crucial in dimly lit areas or during nighttime. Beyond its safety features, the illuminated handrail system also serves as a decorative element, capable of being incorporated into street furniture and urban art installations. This dual functionality allows for both practical illumination and an enhancement of urban aesthetics. Each CREE LED module within the system is designed to be powerful yet unobtrusive. These modules produce an oval-shaped beam with a sharp cut-off, a design choice intended to deliver non-overbearing illumination. The system prioritizes a high degree of uniformity in light distribution, minimizing glare, light spill, and wasted light. This precise light control ensures that illumination is directed where it is most needed without causing discomfort or unnecessary light pollution. Flexibility in installation is another notable feature of the Lumibright LED Handrail Lighting System. It can be integrated into newly constructed handrails or retrofitted into existing ones, offering a practical upgrade solution for various settings. This adaptability makes it a suitable choice for a broad range of projects, from new developments to renovations, allowing for enhanced safety and aesthetic improvement across different architectural contexts. #LEDLighting #HandrailSystem #ArchitecturalLighting #SafetyLighting #UrbanDesign #OutdoorLighting #EnergyEfficiency #CREELED #Lumibright

Natural light is a crucial element in interior design, yet its management presents challenges for designers. Lutron offers an extensive portfolio of precision-automated window treatments and a wide selection of fabrics to help designers control sunlight effectively. Designer Young Huh, for example, frequently uses Lutron motorized shades in her projects, including her Chelsea office, to manage glare, heat, and privacy. She highlights the utility of Sivoia QS rollers in classic white with a 3 percent openness factor, which are efficient in deflecting heat and minimizing glare. Lutron's offerings extend beyond solar shades to include various textile choices, ranging from naturalistic weaves to boucles and jacquards, allowing for diverse aesthetic applications. For specific needs like home theaters or bedrooms, blackout shades provide complete darkness, while automated curtains can create a luxurious, voluminous effect. These window treatments are available in wired or wire-free configurations and can be operated via apps, smart-home systems, or remote controls. The motors are discreetly housed, either integrated into the drywall or within mounted fascia. The Palladiom roller shades, for instance, conceal the motor within the shade itself and feature elegant brackets available in seven premium metal finishes, including Aged Bronze, which can be coordinated with Lutron's keypads and Ketra downlights. Cecilia Ramos, senior director of architectural markets at Lutron, emphasizes that Palladiom brackets serve as a decorative element, embodying thoughtful design, one of the company's core tenets. Lutron's commitment to thoughtful design is also evident in the breadth of typologies, fabrics, and finishes available. Designers can choose from roller shades for a minimalist look, honeycomb shades, and horizontal sheer blinds for diffused light, or wood blinds with fabric-wrapped fascia for a rustic touch. The company also provides fabrication kits that allow designers to automate Roman shades using their own materials, such as COM (Customer's Own Material). Young Huh notes the significant evolution in motorized window coverings, where it was once limited to basic roller shades. Now, Lutron enables the combination of automated solutions with custom drapery, allowing for traditional decorating with modern convenience and helping a room feel complete and layered. Intelligent performance is another key principle for Lutron, with all automated window options designed for quiet operation. Ramos highlights the near-silent movement of the shades, contributing to a "quiet luxury" aesthetic where the beauty of the shades is appreciated without disruptive noise. The precision engineering ensures that multiple shades in a space can be programmed to align perfectly, creating a synchronized and visually appealing effect. The third tentpole of Lutron's motorization methodology is simplicity, which aims to streamline complex functions for the end-user. Lutron recently introduced Natural Light Optimization, a feature that preschedules shades to adjust automatically to the sun's movement throughout the day. This function considers the home's location, orientation, and the season to maximize natural light while blocking glare and harmful UV rays that can damage interiors. While this feature standardizes baseline settings, it also provides homeowners with the flexibility to pause optimization and customize usage as needed. For ease of installation, Lutron offers battery-powered designs like the Triathlon Select series, which are accessible, easy to retrofit, and available with a quick lead time. The D-cell batteries are readily available and have a long lifespan, reducing maintenance frequency. Young Huh credits Lutron's shades with enhancing her work environment by allowing her to manipulate light quality. In her studio, the combination of motorized shades and Ketra recessed downlights enables her to replicate various lighting conditions, essential for analyzing colors and materials for different project settings. Lutron views windows as light fixtures, integrating motorized shades and drapery with architectural lighting to create a cohesive design story that evolves with the day. Beyond functionality, the personalized control over light contributes to a positive and soothing atmosphere, preventing issues like seasonal affective disorder among office occupants by optimizing light temperature and minimizing reliance on artificial lighting. The system allows for seamless transitions from natural light filtering to internal illumination as external light fades, enhancing comfort and mood. #AutomatedShades #SmartHomeTechnology #NaturalLightManagement #InteriorDesign #WindowTreatments #Lutron #HomeAutomation #EnergyEfficiency #DesignInnovation

The popularity of glass as a material for partition walls and internal doors is increasing, offering aesthetic and practical benefits for homeowners. It allows for the creation of spaces that feel large and open while maintaining the functionality and privacy of separate rooms. This trend has emerged as the lines between home and work life blurred during the pandemic, leading to a desire for distinct zones without sacrificing natural light. Glass walls also add a 'wow' factor to interior design, providing an understated yet cool industrial vibe. Several design options are available for glass walls, including simple partitions, hinged doors, bi-fold doors, and sliding doors. Sliding doors, in particular, draw inspiration from traditional Japanese house designs, allowing for flexible interconnected or distinct spaces. These can be framed with bespoke timber or steel, and can feature clear glass for unobstructed views or obscure glass to allow light while maintaining visual privacy. The framing materials for glass partition walls and internal doors vary, influencing both cost and aesthetic. Steel and aluminium are popular choices, with Crittall-style windows and doors offering a sleek, industrial look. While ultra-traditional steel can be expensive, aluminium provides a more affordable alternative with a similar aesthetic and robustness. Bronze offers a unique, rich, and deep color, suitable for both traditional and contemporary designs, though it is a more premium option. For a minimalist look, frameless glass walls create an illusion of greater space, as seen in glass brick walls for an opaque, vintage-industrial feel, or transparent stairwells that appear to float. Various glass types offer different functionalities. Obscured, reeded, and colored glass are used when visual privacy is desired without blocking light, offering a sense of connection between spaces. For increased sound insulation, thicker glass (e.g., 6mm or 6.8mm) can be specified, especially useful for home offices. Acoustic glass, a multi-layer glass with a special resin, provides enhanced noise reduction while remaining transparent. Smart Glass, a technology featuring a liquid crystal layer, allows clear glass to turn opaque at the touch of a button, offering on-demand privacy, though it is more common in corporate settings. Several design considerations are crucial when incorporating glass walls. Glass screens are typically not load-bearing, so removing a structural wall requires installing a reinforced steel joist (RSJ) to support the structure above. Homeowners should also consider the implications of transparency; a glass wall allows views into the adjacent room, which may not always be desirable. Additionally, items like shelves or large flat-screen TVs cannot be mounted directly on glass walls, influencing room layout. For high-traffic areas, kick plates can be added to the bottom of glass doors to prevent scratches and ease operation when hands are full. Practical applications of glass partition walls include creating ultimate larders or pantries, where a glass partition can visually expand the kitchen while maintaining a cooler, separate storage area. The Shoreditch kitchen example uses 8mm Crittall glass, saving space compared to traditional walls. Glass walls can also define en suite bathrooms or dressing rooms within bedrooms, making these private spaces feel larger. Oversized glass double doors can serve as grand, yet practical, room dividers, offering an open-plan feel when open and separate, cozy spaces when closed. Glass walls are also effective for dividing reception rooms or creating spacious home offices, gyms, or wine storage areas. Finally, frameless glass banisters or half-height glass walls can provide a safe yet visually open solution for staircases, enhancing light penetration and the sense of space. #GlassWalls #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #PartitionWalls #NaturalLight #CrittallStyle #SmartGlass #AcousticGlass #OpenPlanLiving #SpaceMaximization

This article provides a comprehensive guide to selecting wall sconces to enhance home aesthetics and functionality. It highlights wall sconces as versatile home furnishings that offer both practical lighting solutions and decorative elements, capable of adding symmetry and character to various living spaces. The guide acknowledges the ongoing trend of home reorganization and decoration, suggesting wall sconces as a valuable addition alongside other popular home items like outdoor patio furniture, sectional couches, and area rugs. The article meticulously curates a list of 15 top-rated wall sconces, catering to diverse styles and budgetary considerations. Each sconce is presented with a brief description emphasizing its unique features, design aesthetic, and ideal placement within a home. For instance, the Viluxy Wooden Wall Sconces are recommended for those seeking a rustic, farmhouse-inspired look, while the Globe Electric Bowery Sconce is suggested for a modern twist with its black and brown design. The Permo Classic Industrial Wall Sconce offers a contemporary brass-embossed design with a fabric flared shade for elegance, and the Folksmate Matte Black Wall Sconce provides a classic, no-frills option combining glass and metal. For homeowners looking to create a specific ambiance, the Maylaywood Industrial Wall Sconce blends vintage and modern design with brushed metal to add a sophisticated touch. The Joss & Main Maebel Armed Sconce is highlighted for beach-themed or coastal-inspired homes, while the Wade Logan Wason Armed Sconce offers a brass, bulbous design that gives an airy and light feel. The 17 Stories Cogan Black Armed Sconce is noted for its exaggerated cage design and mid-century charm, providing a traditional edge. The 17 Stories Lateefah 2 sconce is presented as a high-quality lighting fixture suitable for small spaces, similar to a floor lamp. The Wade Logan Coan Antique Armed Sconce appeals to those who appreciate a blend of rustic style and modern edge with its unique oval and rectangular appeal. For minimalistic decor preferences, the Light Society Alexi Wall Sconce is recommended for its practical and unobtrusive design. The Novogratz x Globe Electric Cleo Wall Sconce is featured for its ability to introduce a subtle pop of color. The Stonebriar Wall Sconce Pillar Candle Holder offers a traditional, ornate style at an affordable price, suitable for various rooms. Finally, for those willing to invest in luxury, the Katie Small Cylinder Sconce provides a splurge-worthy option with customizable finishes like brushed brass, bronze, or nickel, enhancing the regal feel of a space. The Generation Lighting Marston Wall Sconce is praised for its classic, candle-like finish, evoking a historical aesthetic. This selection is intended to assist readers in finding the perfect lighting solution to complement their home decor, whether their preference is for modern, rustic, traditional, or eclectic styles. The article offers practical advice for integrating these fixtures into different rooms, such as above bar carts or opposite smart TVs, and suggests additional resources for further home improvement, including vacuum cleaners and house cleaning products, reinforcing its role as a comprehensive home decoration guide. #WallSconces #HomeLighting #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LightingFixtures #HomeRenovation #DecorativeLighting #HomeImprovement

Lutron and The Shade Store have announced a collaborative effort to launch 'automation by Lutron at The Shade Store,' a comprehensive shade control system designed for seamless integration into home and commercial environments. This partnership, publicly disclosed on February 26, aims to provide designers with an advanced, user-friendly solution for managing window treatments and lighting. The system, slated for availability in April, combines Lutron's expertise in lighting and movement technologies with The Shade Store's diverse range of window fashions. According to Laura Friedlander, senior director at Lutron, this alliance is set to simplify the process of automating window treatments, thereby expanding the market for smart window solutions. Friedlander emphasizes the streamlined selection, specification, and installation process that designers can expect. The collaboration allows for the integration of Lutron technology with various window treatment options from The Shade Store, including Roller Shades, Solar Shades, Roman Shades, and Drapery, ensuring adaptability to any room's design aesthetic. The core of the automation system lies in its operational flexibility. Users can control the system via a proprietary remote or through the Lutron app, which also syncs with popular voice-controlled assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Apple Siri. A key feature of the system is its precision alignment and noise-control capabilities, ensuring that all window treatments move quietly and in perfect synchronicity. Furthermore, the system offers programmable settings, allowing shades to automatically adjust based on the time of day, optimizing natural light and privacy throughout the home. The Shade Store, known for its 'custom made simple' philosophy, supports this new offering with its extensive e-commerce platform and a network of over 90 showrooms nationwide. This infrastructure is designed to guarantee a reliable and straightforward process from initial specification to final installation. Ian Gibbs, co-founder and chief creative officer of The Shade Store, highlights the company's commitment to anticipating customer needs, particularly in the context of increasing in-home technology integration. He states that the partnership with Lutron is a testament to their dedication to providing the best window treatment automation available in the industry. This collaboration addresses the growing demand for smart home solutions that enhance convenience and comfort while maintaining design integrity. By combining cutting-edge technology with high-quality window treatments, Lutron and The Shade Store aim to offer a sophisticated yet accessible automation system for designers and homeowners seeking advanced control over their interior environments. #HomeAutomation #SmartHome #WindowTreatments #InteriorDesign #Lutron #TheShadeStore #DesignTechnology #LightingControl #CustomSolutions

Danielle Trofe, through her brand MushLume Lighting, is pioneering a new direction in design by transforming mushrooms into light fixtures. This innovative approach integrates nature, technology, and craftsmanship, offering a forward-looking vision for interior spaces. The article highlights an interview with Danielle Trofe in her Brooklyn studio, where she discussed the origins and development of her mycelium-based lighting products. Trofe's journey into biomaterials began in 2011 with Danielle Trofe Design, initially focusing on hydroponics. However, in 2014, her research into sustainable material alternatives led her to discover mycelium, the root structure of fungi. The realization that she could grow objects into specific shapes using a living organism became a pivotal moment, inspiring her to dedicate a decade to collaborating with a biomaterials company to bring mycelium to the forefront of lighting design. This commitment addresses the growing concern over the environmental impact of mass production by offering a sustainable alternative. Mycelium is a rapidly renewable material known for its strength, fire resistance, and biodegradability. It grows by binding agricultural byproducts, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious design. Trofe explained that MushLume Lighting utilizes low-heat LED bulbs, which are well-suited to the fire-resistant properties of mycelium. The production process involves hand-packing hemp substrate into molds, allowing the mycelium to grow into a solid structure within 7-10 days, forming the base of the lamps. The lamps’ domes feature natural curves that enhance the interior illumination, creating a soft and inviting glow. The use of natural, VOC-free lime wash provides earth tones that complement the organic texture of the mycelium. Addressing common concerns about using living organisms in home products, Trofe clarified that the mycelium lamps are not 'alive' when they reach consumers. The material undergoes a heat and drying process that renders it inert, eliminating any possibility of mushrooms sprouting from the fixtures. The article notes the challenges Trofe faced in establishing MushLume Lighting, as there was no existing brand to support this novel material. This necessitated creating a new brand to introduce, cultivate, and validate mycelium as a viable product in the market. While MushLume Lighting has been established in the U.S. for a decade, it has recently gained traction in European markets, where sustainability is a central tenet of design. This expansion underscores the alignment of Trofe’s work with the continent's eco-conscious movement. Trofe's passion for nature and sustainability is a driving force behind her design philosophy, emphasizing the need for balance in human creations and a deeper connection with the environment. She expressed inspiration from algae as a potential future material due to its rapid renewability and ability to replace more resource-intensive options. The article concludes with a tour of Trofe's studio, highlighting the hands-on craftsmanship involved in filling molds and observing the mycelium growth process. This blend of scientific innovation and artistic creation reflects Trofe’s thoughtful approach to design. The interview ended with Trofe sharing her ideal dinner guests, including figures like Merlin Sheldrake, Paul Stamets, Tom Dixon, Zaha Hadid, Ray Eames, and Lonneke Gordijn, indicating a broad appreciation for both scientific and design pioneers. #LightingDesign #BiophilicDesign #InnovationDesign #InnovativeMaterials #SustainableDesign #MyceliumLighting #DanielleTrofe #MushLumeLighting

Allied Maker, a New York-based design and manufacturing studio founded in 2012, recently introduced four new lighting fixtures at the Architectural Digest Design Show. The studio is known for its minimalist designs that emphasize the inherent beauty of materials such as brass, glass, and hardwoods. The newly unveiled collection continues this aesthetic, incorporating both angular, structural lines, specifically triangles, and soft, curving circular forms into their latest creations. One of the new additions is the Tri Cone Pendant, a fixture that features a cone-shaped shade designed to direct a focused beam of light. This focused illumination is achieved with a glass disc, all contained within a tetrahedron-inspired structural frame. The design seamlessly blends geometric precision with functional lighting, creating a visually compelling piece that is both modern and elegant. Another significant launch is the Grand Aperture 4, an expanded version of Allied Maker's existing Aperture 4 chandelier. This larger chandelier is specifically engineered to make a substantial visual impact in spacious environments. It comprises four glass domes strategically placed to encircle four distinct light sources. This arrangement ensures a broad and even diffusion of light, making it suitable for grand living areas or commercial spaces where significant ambient lighting is desired, all while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. The collection also includes the Contour Wall Lamp 22”. This wall-mounted fixture is characterized by its graceful, hand-bent arc, which extends to connect with a glass sphere. The design's functionality is enhanced by its ability to swivel against the wall, allowing for adjustable lighting direction and adaptability to various room configurations. The elegant curve and spherical element offer a blend of art and utility, providing both illumination and a sculptural presence. Completing the quartet of new fixtures is the Concentric 15”, a versatile piece designed for either wall or ceiling installation. This fixture stands out due to its handcrafted wooden dome, which features a series of concentric circles. These circles create a topographic effect, giving the fixture a unique textural and visual depth. The pleasing arrangement of the concentric rings adds a subtle yet striking decorative element to any space, reinforcing Allied Maker's commitment to thoughtful design and meticulous craftsmanship. These new offerings from Allied Maker reinforce their dedication to creating lighting solutions that are not only functional but also serve as artistic statements within a space. The combination of high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and a keen eye for minimalist design ensures that these fixtures enhance the ambiance and aesthetic of contemporary interiors. #AlliedMaker #LightingFixtures #ArchitecturalDigestDesignShow #MinimalistDesign #BrassLighting #GlassDesign #Chandeliers #WallLamps #HomeFurnishings

Lowe's in North Bergen, New Jersey, is set to host a limited-time pilot program for its innovative Lowe's Style Studio™ for Apple Vision Pro. This cutting-edge tool is designed to revolutionize how homeowners approach kitchen renovation projects, offering an immersive 3D visualization experience. The North Bergen location, situated at 7801 Tonnelle Avenue, is one of only three Lowe's stores nationwide selected to offer this service, which will be available from June 22nd to June 25th, 2024. The Lowe's Style Studio leverages Apple Vision Pro's spatial computing technology to create a high-fidelity, three-dimensional renovation simulator. This system allows customers to design their dream kitchen virtually, utilizing a curated collection of designs developed by Lowe's kitchen designers. The tool's intuitive input system, controlled by the user's eyes and hands, enables exploration and customization of kitchen layouts in minutes. This initiative marks Lowe's as the first home improvement retailer to integrate such advanced technology for in-store design experiences, aiming to enhance the visualization process for customers. Customers can schedule a 45-minute one-on-one appointment to experience the Lowe's Style Studio. During these sessions, a Lowe's associate guides users through the program, explaining its functionalities. The system offers a virtual environment where customers can explore nearly limitless design combinations, incorporating hundreds of real-world materials, fixtures, and appliances available at Lowe's. This eliminates the need for extensive online searching, centralizing all design choices within a single platform. Upon finalizing a design, customers can save their selections as a PDF. This document can then be easily shared with family, friends, designers, or contractors, and conveniently used for shopping at Lowe's. The company emphasizes that the system works best without glasses, advising contact lens use for optimal experience. Lowe's, a FORTUNE® 50 home improvement retailer, continuously seeks to innovate its services, providing a wide array of products and solutions for home renovation projects across North America. The pilot program at the North Bergen store is a significant step in Lowe's omnichannel strategy, as highlighted by Seemantini Godbole, Lowe’s Executive Vice President, Chief Digital and Information Officer. The company is optimistic that this technology will serve a broader customer base in the future, making kitchen design more accessible and engaging. Homeowners in the Hoboken, Jersey City, and surrounding areas who are planning kitchen renovations or working with contractors are encouraged to make an appointment during the limited pilot period to utilize this advanced design tool. #Lowe's #KitchenDesign #AppleVisionPro #HomeRenovation #NorthBergen #Innovation #SpatialComputing #HomeImprovement #RetailTechnology

Lighting design encompasses the strategic use of illumination to achieve both practical functionality and aesthetic appeal in various environments. This field involves the selection and arrangement of both artificial light sources, such as lamps and light fixtures, and enhanced performance lighting systems. The ultimate goal is to improve the visual impact and overall ambiance of a designated area. The scope of lighting design extends to diverse applications, including interactive lighting series that utilize air pressure to activate inflating lamp structures, showcasing innovative approaches to dynamic illumination. Other creative examples include upcycled lighting collections that blend vintage object parts with natural wax, offering a sustainable and artistic dimension to lighting. Designers are also reimagining traditional forms, such as Philippe Tabet's transformation of industrial bulkhead lamps into face-like fixtures, and Yusuke Kawai's modular 'Kawara' lighting crafted from Japanese roof tiles, demonstrating a fusion of heritage and contemporary design. Further advancements in the field involve the use of novel materials and technologies. Bacterial cellulose is being transformed into translucent, ruffled lighting sculptures, while 3D-printed ceramics by Jolie Ngo introduce vibrant and sculptural elements into lighting. Exhibitions like 'Nuts + Bolts' highlight the potential of everyday hardware store supplies to be repurposed into DIY lighting solutions, emphasizing accessibility and resourcefulness. Artists like Carmen D'Apollonio create glass and ceramic characters that illuminate spaces, blurring the lines between art and functional lighting. The 'WA' upcycled table lamp, made from retired Tokyo train parts, exemplifies innovative reuse in design. Technological innovations also play a crucial role, as seen in WINT design lab's collaborative effort to create a lamp that adjusts brightness through a stretchable textile interface. Custom-made LED walls, such as those found in Huit Sushi Restaurant in Montreux, demonstrate how lighting can dramatically shape commercial spaces. Installations like 'Blind Lucid Umbrella' by Tony Tao Li explore the symbolic and experiential qualities of blue light through LED modules. Designers like Karim+Elias use desert sand to create luminous wall lamps and sculptural vases, showcasing the artistic possibilities of natural materials. The field also explores historical and cultural influences, with Formafantasma reflecting on American domestic furniture archetypes through lighting design. Kurahito Craft's flexible and see-through lampshade covers, crafted from slabs of wood, illustrate a sophisticated approach to material manipulation. The continuous evolution of lighting design is further demonstrated by annual events such as Milan Design Week, where designers like Michael Anastassiades present modular lighting installations in historic settings, and Lachlan Turczan's interactive halo light sculptures are featured at Google's exhibitions. Studio Lugo's 'Anachron' furniture series, combining horsehair with steel, and A-POC ABLE ISSEY MIYAKE and atelier oï's innovative use of cloth and wire to illuminate spaces, collectively showcase the boundless creativity and interdisciplinary nature of contemporary lighting design. #LightingDesign #HomeDecoration #InteriorLighting #SustainableDesign #InteractiveLighting #InnovativeMaterials #ProductDesign #ArtisticLighting #SmartLighting