Nantes house extension contrasts blackened wood facades with pale window frames

For decades, architects and government officials have recognized the importance of energy-efficient buildings, especially since the 1970s energy crisis. Buildings, including their construction, materials, and associated infrastructure, contribute up to 40 percent of global carbon emissions, making energy efficiency a critical concern. This understanding is foundational in North American architecture schools and has been emphasized by European institutions for even longer. The "Passive House Design" approach, pioneered by German architects, considers a building's entire interconnected system, focusing on its integration with the site, climate, and social support. This philosophy extends beyond residential structures to all building types. A more recent evolution, the "Net Zero Design" approach, also led by German designers, takes this further by requiring buildings to be highly efficient, use minimal energy, and replace all the energy they consume, potentially even contributing excess energy back to the local power grid. Europe, with its advanced energy design and construction history, has developed numerous innovative building cladding systems that contribute to energy efficiency. These systems often incorporate specialty fabrics in intelligent ways, such as vertical shade systems, retractable awnings, and entire building wraps. Industry experts, including Steve Fredrickson from Serge Ferrari North America, note that Europe is significantly ahead of North America in this area due to a lack of air conditioning standardization in European homes and retail, creating a greater need for heat barrier solutions. Additionally, European building codes are more adaptable to new energy-reducing products and developments. In contrast, existing North American building codes and the time required for their amendment make widespread adoption of fabric shade systems more challenging. Architect Samuel Armijos observes that while European markets showcase many examples of vertical fabric systems, such projects are scarce in the U.S. This lack of visible examples hinders broader acceptance and design incorporation. Architect Nicholas Goldsmith, however, notes a growing recognition among North American designers that exterior shading, particularly in specific regional climates, offers advantages over other cladding systems, such as being lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective. Mike Squizzato of Stobag North America Corp. highlights that Europeans prioritize shade for cooling due to higher electricity costs, whereas North Americans typically rely on air conditioning. He believes that as electricity costs rise and climate concerns grow, North American markets will rapidly adopt shading solutions, with awnings and vertical shading providing natural air-conditioned environments and potentially saving over 50 percent on electricity bills. Paul Snustead, director of facades at Structurflex, acknowledges Europe's lead but points to Structurflex's efforts to advance fabric facade architecture in the U.S. Tensile facades, also known as textile, fabric, or flexible facades, offer an innovative, long-lasting, and cost-effective alternative to traditional metal mesh screens, often costing about 50 percent less. These systems act as a 'second skin' for buildings, providing screening and shading, which can contribute to reduced energy consumption and LEED certification. Despite the clear benefits, the adoption of fabric-based shading systems in North America faces challenges. Traditional cladding materials remain strong competitors. Armijos notes a decline in leads for shade jobs, with parking garages being the primary market, but even there, fabric competes with pre-fabricated concrete and metal mesh systems. He suggests a major global event might be needed to spur a push toward textile facades. Andrew Trowbridge of Ronstan International observes a shift away from stainless steel cables in fabric structures towards greening systems and perforated aluminum panels for shade and facade coverage. Conversely, Fredrickson sees growth in both static and retractable vertical shading options across North America. Snustead describes an exponential expansion in the fabric facade architecture market, particularly for tensile fabric meshes, membranes, and foils, initially driven by parking garage screening requirements. Structurflex has seen an 800 percent increase in facade projects annually, with fabric facades becoming a significant part of their operations. Squizzato predicts that as temperatures rise, North Americans will increasingly seek cost-effective cooling solutions beyond air conditioning, leading to buildings with more colorful awnings and widespread vertical shading, eventually mirroring European practices within 15 years. For companies looking to enter or expand in this market, experts emphasize the need for knowledge, education, and accessibility of information. The ideal company size varies by region and market, but success hinges on having the right products and expertise. Fredrickson warns against using cheap, unproven products, which can harm the market's reputation. Snustead highlights the versatility of tensile facades, which can span large distances with less structural support and use materials that are often 100% recyclable with long lifespans. Squizzato points out that many existing businesses, from awning companies to landscape architects, can leverage sun shade protection to expand their services, provided they have appropriate insurance, training, and competent staff. The overall outlook for vertical fabric shading remains positive, with continued growth anticipated, especially as architects and contractors become more familiar with the medium's innovation and economic advantages. #BuildingFacades #VerticalShading #EnergyEfficiency #FabricArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalTextiles #NetZeroDesign #ClimateControl #ConstructionInnovation

Nimtim Architects designed an extension for a 1960s house in Forest Hill, southeast London, featuring a steeply terraced garden, parquet flooring, and blue-stained woodwork. The project, named Terraced Terrace, addressed the family's need for more space for their teenage children and a home office after a previous loft extension application was denied. The primary challenge was the property's steeply sloping rear garden, which Nimtim Architects creatively transformed into a usable area. The extension is constructed from red brick, complementing the original 1960s brickwork and brown geometric tiling of the existing three-storey house. It includes a new lounge and a study space. The study features an integrated linoleum-lined desk and a drop-down bed for guests, maximizing functionality within the new footprint. A small wood-burning stove serves as a focal point in the living area, while the desk is strategically placed in front of sliding glazing to provide garden views and natural light. Connecting the interior with the outdoors, the sliding glazing allows the new lounge to open onto a sunken patio. Beyond this, the newly landscaped garden incorporates parquet paving and raised planting beds made from the same red brick as the extension. To manage the project's £75,000 budget, timber sleepers were used instead of concrete for additional level changes in the garden, offering a cost-effective yet aesthetically pleasing solution. Inside the extension, simple white shelves are fitted into an alcove beside the chimney breast. Their staggered arrangement mirrors the pattern of the exposed brick wall and ties into the white-painted woodwork found throughout the rest of the house. The existing internal layout was also reconfigured, with the integrated ground-floor garage removed to make way for an en-suite bathroom, subtly concealed behind blue-stained plywood joinery. This pale blue cabinetry extends below the staircase, providing additional storage space. A new garage was subsequently built in front of the house. Oak parquet flooring is laid throughout the new entrance hall, extending into the rear lounge and study area. This continuous flooring choice visually unifies the original and new sections of the house. The use of herringbone-patterned brickwork and parquet reflects popular design trends in London homes, as seen in other recent projects such as a Victorian house extension in Hackney and a studio block in New Cross with a patterned facade. The architectural firm, Nimtim Architects, comprising Nimi Attanayake and Tim O'Callaghan, successfully delivered a practical and aesthetically cohesive extension despite site constraints and budget limitations, enhancing the living and working spaces for the family. #ResidentialExtension #LondonArchitecture #NimtimArchitects #TerracedGarden #ParquetFlooring #StainedWoodwork #HomeOffice #AdaptiveReuse #RedBrick #InteriorDesign

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller

Tandem Design Studio, a local Melbourne firm, has completed the True North House, a distinctive residential project situated on a tapering triangular plot in Kensington. The site previously housed a 1950s cottage and an 1880s stables building. The project involved renovating the stable block into a one-bedroom townhouse and constructing a new three-bedroom house on the irregular remaining space. The new house adopts a triangular form, strategically designed to maximize the usable area on the challenging plot. The exterior of the True North House is characterized by its curving corrugated-metal cladding, which forms a continuous and undulating surface. This unique facade comes together in a sharp pleat above the front door, creating a visually striking architectural element. The architects cited diverse inspirations for this form, including the fluidity of a 'billowing dress' and the organic structure of a 'coral bommie.' The design incorporates small, north-facing pocket gardens and a vegetable patch within the recessed areas of the curvaceous shape, ensuring adequate daylight for both the new residence and its neighboring garden. At the narrower end of the building, the facade extends outwards to create a protective porch over the back door, providing a sheltered entry point to the garden. The steel cladding, custom-folded to achieve a deep pleated surface, contributes to the structural stability of the curving form. These triangular profiles also serve a practical purpose by trapping a layer of air, which enhances the cladding's insulating properties and generates dynamic, constantly shifting shadows that animate the building's exterior throughout the day. Window frames, made from pre-weathered steel, punctuate the ribbed cladding on the upper level. These frames project outwards, offering specific views of the surroundings while simultaneously limiting overlooking from external vantage points, thus maintaining privacy for the residents. Reclaimed bricks from the demolition of the original cottage are used to construct low-level walls, which extend across the surfaces flanking the entrance. This material choice provides a tangible connection to the heritage-listed stables and the traditional architectural materials prevalent in the area. Internally, the open-plan ground floor features a sunken living room, a kitchen, a dining area, and a double-height atrium. Full-height glazing connects these interior spaces with the adjacent gardens, fostering a sense of openness and light. The use of brick extends to the interior, notably in the curved kitchen island, maintaining material continuity. On the upper storey, three suspended pods, accessible via a staircase and bridge, house the bedrooms and bathrooms. Wooden cladding is extensively used on the first floor, with vertical boards covering the walls of the corridor and a bedroom, and built-in storage in the master suite wrapped in veneer. The True North House was recognized for its innovative design by being shortlisted for the annual Victorian Architecture Awards, an accolade that celebrates exceptional architectural projects across Victoria, Australia. #ResidentialArchitecture #AustralianHouses #AdaptiveReuse #CorrugatedMetal #WeatheringSteel #MelbourneArchitecture #TandemDesignStudio #Renovations #ArchitectureDesign

Side-return extensions offer a strategic approach to maximizing the potential of period homes, particularly Victorian or Edwardian terraced or semi-detached properties that often feature underutilized narrow passageways. These extensions aim to integrate the 'dead space' alongside the property into the main living area, thereby expanding and enhancing the functionality of the home, predominantly focusing on kitchen areas. Beyond merely increasing square footage, the article emphasizes a creative design approach that considers versatility, function, and aesthetic appeal in 2025's home renovation trends. The objective is to transform these often damp and neglected strips of land into vibrant, integral parts of the home's design. One prominent design strategy involves the incorporation of Crittall-style glazing. This choice provides a seamless transition between old and new architecture, offering a timeless, industrial aesthetic that complements various kitchen styles, from contemporary to classic. The slim steel frames facilitate abundant natural light and introduce a modern yet classic attitude. Another practical design element is built-in bench seating, especially beneficial in narrow spaces. Unlike conventional chairs, bench seating occupies less floor area, making it ideal for smaller kitchens while providing ample dining and entertaining space. The integration of exposed structural steel (RSJ) that blends with the kitchen design can effectively zone the dining and kitchen areas within a newly extended space, enhancing both functionality and flow, particularly in homes near the sea where outdoor access is prioritized. The article also highlights the importance of color choices in side-return extensions. Warm color palettes are recommended to create depth and a welcoming atmosphere, preventing smaller extensions from feeling confined. For instance, using rich, muted tones on cabinets, complemented by earthy, dirty pinks on walls, can produce a cozy, lived-in charm, especially when balanced with natural materials like stained oak. Drawing color inspiration from nature is another effective method, such as employing verdant greens for cabinets to reflect garden colors, which helps maintain a visual connection to the outdoors, even when the kitchen is set further back from the garden. These thoughtful color schemes ensure the space remains inviting and serene. Personalizing the extension to avoid a generic 'white box' feel is crucial. Interior designers suggest layering vibrant colors, intriguing patterns, and strategic lighting to define different zones, such as cooking and dining areas. Incorporating unique pieces like vintage mirrors, glossy lamps, and antique side tables painted in rich, unexpected colors can add character and cohesion. Exposed brickwork is celebrated for its ability to bring warmth, texture, and character, potentially reducing material costs. When existing brickwork is cleaned and integrated, it provides a grounding backdrop that allows for the use of strong color shades without overwhelming the space, maintaining balance and harmony throughout the room. Addressing practical considerations, especially concerning neighboring properties, is also discussed. Side-return extensions often abut a Party Wall, necessitating careful design to maintain good neighborly relations. Solutions like faceted rooflines that respect existing wall profiles and heights can prevent disputes. Utilizing large, frameless glass panels for the roof or walls can maximize natural light, which is particularly advantageous for north-facing gardens, ensuring the interior remains bright and airy. Finally, optimizing storage and light through design choices like ditching upper cabinets in favor of tall sliding-door units or using structural glass beams for overhead transparency helps to overcome challenges such as potential light blockage to existing rooms, ensuring the extension enhances the entire home's living environment. #SideReturnExtension #KitchenExtension #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesignTrends #CrittallGlazing #BenchSeating #ColorPalette #ExposedBrick #ArchitecturalDesign #LightingDesign

Ailtireacht, a Dublin-based architectural studio, has completed the renovation of an 18th-century Victorian townhouse in Leinster Road, Dublin, converting it back into a single dwelling after it had been subdivided into 11 studio flats. The project involved restoring the original red brick and moulded facade, which contrasted with the grey and brown frontages of neighboring properties. A key addition to the remodelled house is a single-storey extension at the rear, clad and roofed with opaque black glass panels. This extension projects into the back garden, serving as a flexible space that can function as a guest bedroom, playroom, or home office. The black glass cladding of the extension is designed to reflect its surroundings, including elements of the architectural context and the garden setting. From the upper-floor windows of the main house, residents can observe clouds moving across the shiny, flat roof of the extension. The architects noted that the house is situated on a north-south axis, with a north and west-facing rear garden, and the black glass cladding on the external walls and roof of the new extension enlivens this area by reflecting movement from the sky above and from the basement living area. This reflective quality also allows the Victorian architecture of the surroundings and the movement of the sky to be flawlessly mirrored on the roof. Access to the extension is provided through a large pivot door with a dark wood frame, connecting it to the adjoining dining area. This door opens onto a tiled terrace, where strips of transparent glass offer views into the extension. Steps from a gravelled border around the extension lead up to a lawn bordered by tall hedges. Internally, a wide oak staircase links the extension and the dining area on the ground floor to an open-plan living area on the first floor. This staircase acts as a unifying element, integrating the contemporary, informal spaces of the lower ground floor with the retained historical fabric of the upper floors. On the lower floor, a kitchen with a marble countertop is neatly integrated beneath the new staircase, and a larder is strategically placed towards the front of the property. This arrangement provides additional storage, contributing to an uncluttered dining area. The flooring on the lower level features pale timber floorboards laid in a zigzag pattern, while the walls and corniced ceilings are painted white. Storage is discreetly provided by closets concealed behind dark wood panelling. In contrast, the upper floor reverses this material theme, featuring dark wooden floors and pale timber cladding. The living space on this floor is furnished with plush items and an ornate fireplace, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. The third storey of the townhouse accommodates three bedrooms. In the master bedroom, a tall, dark wood door, which matches the headboard, opens into a black glass shower stall. Another floor-to-ceiling door, painted white and featuring skirting boards, is concealed within the wall, providing a seamless and integrated design. The studio described this approach as creating a "complementary and legible stitched fabric of old and new," particularly evident in the main bedroom where the concealed doors reveal a black glass-clad shower and en-suite washstand, reflecting the retained historical perimeter of the room. The project successfully blends modern architectural elements with the historic character of the Victorian townhouse, creating a dwelling that is both functional and aesthetically harmonious. #VictorianTownhouse #ResidentialExtension #BlackGlassCladding #DublinArchitecture #HouseRenovation #AiltireachtStudio #ArchitecturalRestoration #FlexibleLivingSpace #InteriorDesign

Branch Studio Architects, an Australian practice, designed an addition to an existing 1990s family home, titled 'A Pavilion Between Trees.' The addition was created to accommodate a new master en-suite for the clients. Unlike the existing home's architectural style, the new pavilion was conceived to interact intimately with its natural surroundings, specifically the numerous trees on the site. The design prioritized preserving existing trees, integrating them as focal points and functional elements within the new spaces. The structure itself is a parallelogram-shaped building organized into three distinct zones, each offering a unique sequential experience intended to mark the beginning and end of each day. Access to the addition is through a singular hallway from the original home, leading into the new programmatic elements. The floor levels are subtly raised using platforms to differentiate the functions of each zone. The lowest level houses the master bathroom, where the hallway divides the space into an indoor/outdoor shower and tub on one side, and vanities and a water closet on the other. Full-height glass walls and an external courtyard connect the bathing area to the outdoor gardens, with a steel mesh providing necessary privacy. The next level up features separate 'his and hers' closet areas. The woman's closet, located on the south side, incorporates a glass wall that opens to an open courtyard centered around one of the existing trees, showcasing how the structure is built around the natural vegetation. A continuous element transitions from a bench to a sideboard and then into a dresser, strategically angled to draw attention to the exterior views. In contrast, the man's wardrobe on the north side features a smaller clerestory window, directing views towards the tree canopies, which also naturally filter light into the interior. A protruding window in this area provides a seating space elevated above the landscape. The procession culminates in the bedroom, situated at the highest point of the addition, overlooking the surrounding gardens. This room is encased by full-height glass walls on two-thirds of its perimeter, offering expansive external views. The lighting scheme in the bedroom is designed to create a specific ambiance, using indirect lighting to complement natural light throughout the day, aligning with the architects' intention for this space to influence the waking and sleeping experiences of the occupants. The material palette was carefully selected to harmonize with the site's natural characteristics, featuring raw and exposed elements to evoke comfort and tranquility. The exterior boasts charcoal rammed earth, glass, and steel, chosen for their ability to reflect the surroundings and age gracefully. Internally, the same palette is used, augmented by stained plywood soffits and timber fixtures to introduce warmth. Detailed connection points and joinery elevate the raw materials, with each edge meticulously crafted to achieve an eloquent and refined design. The project encompasses a total area of 85 square meters, with construction managed by Martin Builders and structural engineering by WSP Consulting Engineers. The design successfully integrates modern living spaces with the natural environment, creating a serene and thoughtfully crafted extension. #Architecture #HomeExtension #ResidentialDesign #PavilionDesign #BranchStudioArchitects #SustainableDesign #NatureIntegration #MelbourneArchitecture #MasterEnSuite

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

GKMP Architects, a Dublin-based practice, undertook a project to renovate and extend a late 19th-century terraced house in Dublin. The original house featured a red clay brick finish at the front and a hard cement render finish at the rear. The primary architectural challenge identified was the disproportion between the living and sleeping areas. The architects determined that the existing area of the house was sufficient for the family's needs and aimed to make minimal additions while maximizing their impact. The solution involved adding two small single-storey extensions, totaling just seven square meters in footprint. One extension was added to the rear of the main house, and the other to the end of an existing return, replacing a lean-to kitchen. These extensions were designed to open the lower ground floor of the house to the garden, creating an enlarged kitchen, dining room, and playroom. The extensions were constructed from cast in-situ concrete, selected to complement the hard cement render of the existing rear facade. Vibrant blue glazed Italian ceramic tiles were incorporated into the design, used as a lining where walls thickened to form seats or sills. These tiles added a pop of color and were also featured inside the playroom, which is adjacent to the new kitchen and dining area and includes windows wrapping around two sides. Key features of the new design include a corner bench with upholstered sofa cushions beneath the playroom windows and new glazed double doors that lead from the playroom to the garden. Both extensions are equipped with large skylights, ensuring an abundance of natural light in the open-plan lower ground floor. The dining area includes a window seat crafted from iroko wood, which provides a visual contrast with the pale interior walls and offers views of the garden. To improve the connection between different levels, GKMP Architects installed a new oak staircase. This staircase links the new kitchen on the lower ground floor with an existing living room on the upper ground floor and a newly created den on the first floor. The staircase also features a bookcase lining one side and wraps around a utility room, cleverly integrating it into a previously dark and underutilized central space of the house. The project successfully addressed the spatial imbalance by creating functional, well-lit, and aesthetically pleasing extensions that enhance the home's living areas without significantly increasing its overall footprint. #HouseExtension #GKMPArchitects #WindowSeat #TerracedHouse #DublinArchitecture #HomeRenovation #ConcreteDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #IrokoWood #Skylights

Architecture studio Naturehumaine undertook a comprehensive renovation and extension of the Des Érables residence in Montreal's Rosement La-Petite-Patrie neighborhood, merging two distinct units into a cohesive single-family home. The core of the project revolved around creating a new, central dog-leg staircase that seamlessly connects the original structure with the new rear extension. This intervention not only improved circulation but also introduced a distinctive aesthetic and functional element to the home. The design ethos for the new staircase focused on a modern material palette that contrasts with the existing traditional architectural details of the house. Plywood, known for its warm and contemporary appeal, was selected to clad the staircase, providing a clean and minimal look. This choice of material highlights the transition between the older and newer sections of the house, creating a visual and tactile distinction while maintaining a sense of continuity. Complementing the plywood, white metal handrails were incorporated, echoing the clean lines and bright tones found in the newly designed kitchen and dining areas. This material combination ensures a cohesive interior design where modern elements are thoughtfully integrated with the home's original character. A particularly innovative feature of the staircase design is the integration of a children's play nook on the ground floor. This dedicated space demonstrates a thoughtful consideration for the family's needs, providing a practical and engaging area for children within the central hub of the home. This element adds a playful dimension to the functional staircase, making it a focal point for both movement and family interaction. The rear extension dramatically alters the ground floor layout, introducing a double-height kitchen and dining room. This expansive space is bathed in natural light, thanks to the installation of large, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views and access to the back garden. The architects chose a dark-brick feature wall for this double-height area, which not only grounds the light-filled space but also harmonizes with the external facade of the extension, creating a consistent architectural language. Suspended black geometric pendant lights further enhance the contemporary aesthetic of the kitchen and dining area, adding a touch of sophistication and defining specific zones within the open-plan layout. Beyond the ground floor, the renovation extended to the upper levels, where a master bedroom, a dedicated yoga area, and a private balcony were added to the first floor. These new additions benefit from the natural light flooding in through the extensive new windows, fostering a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. The outdoor space was also reimagined to include a comfortable dining area and steps leading down to a pool, enhancing the home's capacity for leisure and entertainment. On the uppermost level, the master suite is strategically positioned at the back of the house, offering privacy and direct access to a balcony overlooking the garden. A pocket door provides the option to close off the master suite from the main stairwell, ensuring a secluded retreat for the homeowners. Two additional bedrooms are situated at the front of the house, facing the street, alongside a newly created small office space. This allows both homeowners the flexibility to work from home comfortably, addressing modern living requirements. Naturehumaine, founded in 2004 by Stéphane Rasselet and Marc-André Plasse, has a notable portfolio of residential renovations in Montreal. Their previous projects showcase a consistent approach to blending modern design with existing structures, often incorporating unique elements such as a staircase enveloped by black rods in a duplex renovation, a plant-covered wall to enliven a mid-century home, and minimalist interiors for a prairie-style suburban property. This latest project continues their tradition of creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and family-oriented living spaces. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #HouseExtension #InteriorDesign #PlywoodDesign #MontrealArchitecture #Naturehumaine #ModernLiving #StaircaseDesign

This article details the renovation of a 1930s Mediterranean-style house in Buckhead, Atlanta, undertaken by a young couple. The homeowners were drawn to the house's classic architecture, curb appeal, and distinctive arched windows, a motif that extends throughout the interior. They enlisted architect Norman Askins and interior designer Susan Bozeman to modernize the space while preserving its historical integrity. Norman Askins, who collaborated frequently with Susan Bozeman, oversaw the architectural updates. He admired the original design by Georgia Tech–trained architect Flip Burge from 1930, noting its “good-looking exterior,” high ceilings, and abundant windows. Askins highlighted the home’s then-modern floor plan, with a central living room offering light from both sides, a feature that remains relevant in contemporary design. The renovation focused on upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms and reconfiguring bedrooms and a family room to better suit a modern family's needs. Susan Bozeman's interior design approach aimed to adapt the historic house for a young family while maintaining an elegant and refined aesthetic. The owners' appreciation for European antiques and art, particularly French pieces, influenced the design, which was crafted to evoke an Art Deco Parisian atmosphere. This was achieved through the use of rich color palettes, brass fixtures, and carefully selected antique furnishings. Window treatments were kept minimal or entirely omitted to emphasize the French doors, which serve as a prominent design element. Key design features and elements contributing to the Parisian aesthetic include a high-gloss black foyer with Schumacher tortoiseshell wallpaper on the ceiling, illuminated by a modern brass light fixture and adorned with framed intaglios and antique rugs. The dining room features an antique Spanish gilt screen from Mirabella Antiques, an Empire light fixture, and an 18th-century bench from Foxglove Antiques. The custom dining table was designed to accommodate large gatherings. The living room, designed for both formal and informal entertaining, includes linen sofas with Samuel & Sons trim, antique accents, and a 19th-century chinoiserie table from Parc Monceau. The sunporch was designed with an eclectic mix of contemporary and vintage elements, featuring a star chandelier from Circa Lighting and vintage cane chairs from Foxglove Antiques. The newly renovated kitchen, while modern, retains a period feel with windows above the sink for natural light, Zak + Fox cafe curtains, and a marble island with brass legs. Pantry doors were covered in grasscloth with nail heads for organic texture, and hand-rubbed brass pendants from Circa Lighting were installed. The owner's bath showcases a high-end European aesthetic with marble washstands from Waterworks, brass fittings, and basketweave tile. The family room features a rug from Mendel Tencer and a versatile wood table from Nicholson Gallery, with a chest detailed with nailheads adding leather texture. The owner’s suite includes an upholstered headboard from the Cameron Collection, faux-tortoiseshell lamps from Parc Monceau, and lampshades from Edgar-Reeves. Both Askins and Bozeman were successful in creating a cohesive design that honors the home's historic character while incorporating modern functionality and Parisian-inspired elegance. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the design duo's ability to blend old and new, highlighting their understanding of Atlanta's historic homes. #HistoricHomeRenovation #Buckhead #MediterraneanArchitecture #ParisianDesign #NormanAskins #SusanBozeman #InteriorDesign #HomeRemodel #Antiques #ArtDeco

GKMP Architects extended a semi-detached house in Dublin, Ireland, to create a bright, open-plan living area for a family of five. The project involved demolishing an existing 1990s extension and shed at the rear of the house. The previous layout included a dining room and garage extension that blocked evening light and enclosed the kitchen, hindering access to the garden. The new single-story extension, spanning 31 square meters, integrates an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space. Natural light is a central design element, achieved through strategically placed windows and a central skylight. The walls of the extension are angled and covered with glazed white tiles, which are instrumental in directing and amplifying sunlight into the interior. Architect Michael Pike noted that the tiles were chosen for their texture and their ability to reflect light, brightening the terrace and garden areas. Ceramic tiles, though a traditional material, are not commonly used for external cladding in Ireland. However, GKMP Architects employed them to add texture and warmth to the facade, and to draw attention to specific architectural details. This approach was also seen in another Dublin extension by GKMP Architects, where terracotta tiles resembling brickwork were used for cladding. Contrasting with the white ceramic tiles, iroko wood was used for door and window frames. Green tiles were incorporated around certain windows and on a low planter that extends into the garden, adding visual interest and a connection to the outdoor space. A large skylight, lined with plywood, further enhances natural light penetration into the core of the living area, marking the transition between the old and new sections of the house. The interior features a polished concrete floor throughout the ground level, which also contributes to light reflection. The kitchen boasts a cast concrete countertop that harmonizes with the floor, alongside birch plywood benches and cabinetry, creating a cohesive and natural aesthetic. The extension also includes a storeroom, a utility room, and a shower room, wrapping around a corner of the existing house. The overall design prioritizes light, open space, and a strong connection to the garden, fulfilling the family's desire for a more functional and illuminated home environment. #HomeExtension #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #CeramicTiles #DublinHouses #GKMPArchitects #OpenPlanLiving #PlywoodInteriors

Notan Office, a local Brussels studio, completed a 140-square-meter rooftop extension named Lincoln for a penthouse apartment in a residential area. The extension, largely invisible from street level due to its setback design, adds two new living areas with floor-to-ceiling windows and terraces on both the front and rear facades, while the existing top floor was converted into a private bedroom. The design ingeniously integrates existing structural elements—a circulation core and two ventilation shafts—into the new layout, transforming them from potential obstacles into primary functional 'cores' that dictate the apartment's spatial organization. A key feature of the extension is a distinctive fireplace, constructed from concrete and ceramic blocks, which wraps around one corner of the central stairwell block. This fireplace is inspired by the chimneys designed by Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto. The design incorporates raw, honest materials like construction blocks and concrete to create an industrial, urban aesthetic, balanced by a color palette of warm orange and cool greys. The architect, Frédéric Karam, intended to evoke an organic and rough sensation, emphasizing an artisanal quality that embraces textures, imperfections, and an element of uncontrolled final result. The layout promotes fluid movement through the apartment. A corridor encircles the central block, connecting four corner rooms. The kitchen and dining areas are positioned towards the street-facing facade, while a secondary living space and loggia are located at the rear. Bathrooms and utility spaces are discreetly placed to the sides. Karam highlights the project's fluid addition of spaces, each with unique characteristics and unexpected interrelationships, fostering a continuous sense of discovery and varying spatial relations. A section of the roof over the circulation area is tilted upwards to incorporate a window, drawing morning light into the front facade. Full-height glazing across the facades provides expansive views of the city and allows ample natural light to penetrate the interiors. Sliding doors in the front offer direct access from the kitchen to a terrace that spans the length of the apartment. A second outdoor area is a covered balcony within the loggia at the rear, creating unobstructed sightlines through the entire building. The main living areas are painted white, with distinct textures defining each zone. Plywood is extensively used in the kitchen for a floor-to-ceiling unit with a built-in bar and a floating work surface. The outdoor spaces, including the loggia and front terrace, are unified by matching wooden planks and steel fiber-cement cladding. Karam expresses his current preference for the kitchen space, noting its contradictory role as both a core and a transitional element that effectively connects the dining and living areas. The design also integrates various space-saving storage solutions, such as shelves built into the circulation core and above the loggia entrance. The kitchen's two core units are highly functional, concealing appliances like the fridge, oven, and dishwasher, along with extensive storage, and a floating countertop houses a stove and drawers. Notan Office, led by Frédéric Karam, operates through temporary partnerships and is active across Switzerland, Belgium, France, and Lebanon. #ResidentialExtensions #NotanOffice #ResidentialArchitecture #Plywood #Concrete #Brussels #Extensions #Belgium #AlvarAalto

Alma-nac, a London-based architecture firm, undertook the renovation of Basing Street Rooms, a four-storey Victorian end-terrace house, transforming it into a long-stay hotel comprising guest suites for a record label. The design drew inspiration from the history of the recording studio across the street, abstracting elements from four specific record labels: Island Records, Stiff Records, ZTT, and Sarm. Instead of creating a direct archive, the architects aimed to distill the identity of each label into an abstract visual language, reinterpreting it within the context of the building's history and the functional requirements of the apartments. This approach resulted in a series of unique spaces, each associated with a particular label, while maintaining a common design thread throughout the hotel. Each of the four apartments, situated on separate floors, features a distinct colour theme influenced by record sleeve designs from the nearby studio's archive. All apartments share a similar layout, incorporating a combined living room and kitchen, a spacious bedroom, and a compact bathroom. Extensive rebuilding was necessitated by damage sustained during the Second World War, including the installation of a central plywood staircase, assembled off-site, on the ground floor. The lower-ground floor apartment is adorned with a navy, pale blue, and orange theme. The apartment on the floor above showcases herringbone patterns in shades of yellow, orange, and red in the hallway, extending through the front door. The kitchen in this unit features white cabinetry with red accents, and the wooden cupboards in the bedroom have bright orange-painted interiors. The orange and red herringbone pattern from the floor continues up the wall, encompassing the window seat. A red painted staircase leads to the first floor, with white lettering on each riser gradually spelling out song lyrics from top to bottom. A lighting installation consisting of clear glass bulbs suspended on red electrical cords hangs above this staircase. The first-floor apartment is characterized by shades of pink and red, featuring a glossy black kitchen unit, a dark chandelier, and a pink neon lighting installation on the living room wall. The top floor is decorated with a vibrant palette of bright yellow, white, blue, green, and pink. This apartment includes a yellow kitchen unit in the living space and a yellow lightning bolt tiled into the bathroom's shower wall. Externally, the building's brick frontage is painted blue with a red door and coloured window frames. A large mural on the external side wall depicts various artists who have recorded at the adjacent studio. The project utilized engineered parquet flooring, stained and arranged in detailed plans to define key activity areas within each apartment. Identifiable symbols and words from the record labels were abstracted and integrated into the design; for instance, the Stiff 'S' was reinterpreted as a pixelated lightning bolt, and the multiple misspellings of 'zang tumb tumb' formed a scrabble-board-like tile pattern in a bathroom. Alma-nac collaborated closely with the client and artists, incorporating a mural on the building's side and artwork directly onto internal walls, further embedding the studio's spirit into the hotel. The project successfully combined the building's historical context with a vibrant, music-inspired aesthetic, creating a unique and functional living space for visiting musicians. #ApartmentRenovation #LondonInteriors #HerringbonePatterns #ColourfulDesign #VictorianArchitecture #MusicInspiredDesign #BoutiqueHotel #InteriorDesign #AlmaNac

In 1788, the Enlightenment society Felix Meritis, Latin for 'Happy Through Merit,' constructed its namesake clubhouse on an Amsterdam canal. The building, designed by Neoclassical architect Jacob Otten Husly, served as a hub for members to study various disciplines like music, natural sciences, drawing, commerce, and literature, embodying the rational principles of Enlightenment thought through its Corinthian-style facade and geometrically shaped rooms. A century later, after the society's dissolution, the building underwent several transformations, serving as a printing factory, the Dutch Communist party headquarters, and a 1960s cabaret, yet it remarkably maintained its architectural integrity despite wear and tear. In 2014, Amerborgh, an investment firm with a focus on the arts, acquired the landmarked Felix Meritis. The company aimed to repurpose it as a cultural center, leveraging its renovated spaces as event venues to support various programs. Tasked with revitalizing the 50,000-square-foot interior, i29, led by co-founder and partner Jeroen Dellensen, sought to bring the historic building 'into the now.' Their approach involved respecting the original architecture while infusing contemporary design elements to appeal to a younger demographic. This restoration project necessitated a careful balance between preserving historical aspects and introducing innovative designs. Working alongside MATH Architecten, which managed structural renovations, i29 co-founders Jeroen Dellensen and Jaspar Jansen focused on cultivating the individual character of each space. They found inspiration in the building's original use by the Felicians, who organized it by departments, allowing each room to retain its distinct function and story. The building's layout, divided by a five-story wooden staircase, comprises 11 staggered levels. A key requirement from the city was the meticulous restoration of two historically significant areas: the oval Concertzaal, renowned as one of Europe's premier small classical-music halls, and the Zuilenzaal, a colonnaded reception room. In the Concertzaal, where Beethoven's Ninth Symphony premiered in the Netherlands, a chromatic analysis revealed the original wall color between the pilasters was a brown-tinted beige, which was reinstated to restore the room's serene ambiance. To accommodate modern musical performances, i29 incorporated discreet, pivoting wall panels that optimize acoustics and conceal electronic equipment. MATH seamlessly integrated new mechanical systems within the existing structure, rendering them invisible in the auditorium. For the majestic Zuilenzaal, i29 opted for a more minimalist approach, stripping back boiserie and stabilizing cracked wood columns, leaving the room largely in its found state. This 'un-Photoshopped' authenticity required carefully dismantling and reassembling fragile woodwork to integrate modern ventilation and sound systems, making the Zuilenzaal a highly sought-after venue. i29 introduced significant visual diversity in the remaining rooms, utilizing color and texture as primary design tools. They incorporated crisply geometric, often mirrored, built-in cabinetry and furniture to create a striking contrast with the classical surroundings, thereby giving these spaces a unique identity and importance comparable to the historic rooms. The main entry is flanked by a reception area and Felix, a 100-seat restaurant. In the reception, custom tufted-shag wall coverings reproduce an 18th-century etching of a Felician meeting, offering a historical greeting to modern visitors. The restaurant's walls are adorned with woven textiles depicting Amsterdam's skies, immersing diners in a Dutch landscape. The Shaffyzaal, a domed, oval room above the Concertzaal, was once a physics lab and later a popular nightspot. Named after performer Ramses Shaffy, its acoustical perforated-steel panels feature an ombré effect, fading from deep to pale blue, evoking its psychedelic past. Jansen emphasizes that this contrast between contemporary and historical elements invigorates both. In the attic Koepelzaal, exposed timber roof beams lend a modern angularity. Dellensen highlights the firm's narrative approach, embedding stories within the design to add depth to the interiors. In the Teekenzaal, formerly the drawing studio, translucent fabric rectangles suspended from the ceiling diffuse light and symbolize the paper used by the Felicians, bringing the spirit of the Enlightenment to life. #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #HistoricalPreservation #AmsterdamLandmark #CulturalCenter #NeoclassicalArchitecture #i29Design #FelixMeritis #RestorationProject

Lauren Perry and Kristopher Novak, a couple from Baton Rouge and New Orleans respectively, sought a home that blended old-world charm with modern aesthetics. Their search led them to an A. Hays Town-designed residence on Fairway Drive, built in the mid-1960s. The property's classic architecture, abundant natural light, and a courtyard reminiscent of New Orleans appealed to them, aligning with Lauren's desire for a home with character. Despite the house being well-maintained and largely true to Town's original vision, certain areas, particularly the kitchen, required an update to meet contemporary standards and the couple's lifestyle. Before moving in, the couple initiated a minor renovation focusing on aesthetic changes rather than structural alterations, intending to preserve the architect's original design integrity. With the help of architect Greg Roberts, they modernized the kitchen by replacing stained pine cabinets and soffits with taller, painted cabinets and a new island, significantly increasing storage. A narrow swinging door between the kitchen and dining room was removed to create a more open passageway. The original brick floors in the kitchen were refinished by Doug Falcon, a former collaborator of Hays Town, using a color palette inspired by Town's work. They selected quartzite and leathered granite for countertops, opting against marble due to concerns about durability with acidic foods. For the interior design, Lauren and Kristopher enlisted Rivers Spencer, a New Orleans-based designer known for her Magazine Street shop and design studio. Lauren, familiar with Spencer's work, believed she could effectively capture their shared aesthetic preferences. The couple's vision included a harmonious blend of antiques and clean-lined modern furnishings. Instead of a complete overhaul, they decided to implement Spencer's design strategies incrementally, a practical decision that ultimately resulted in a more layered and refined interior. A key aspect of Lauren's design preference was a black and white color scheme, which she extended from her personal style to the home's interiors. Spencer, while accustomed to a broader color palette, embraced this challenge, incorporating subtle color variations through olive green throw pillows and gray-blue print chairs to prevent the scheme from appearing too stark. Antiques made of warm stained wood were used to add depth and temper the high contrast. The living room features a large Trumeau mirror, juxtaposed with contemporary furniture like a Verellen sofa and Lucite benches upholstered in striped fabric. A portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Steve Penley holds personal significance, commemorating Kris's proposal at the Lincoln Memorial, and served as inspiration for the room's design. The outdoor spaces were equally important to the couple. The classic Hays Town courtyard, complete with an original kumquat tree, was a major draw. They commissioned Treppendahl Landscape to restore the courtyard with traditional South Louisiana plantings, adhering to Town's original landscape plans. Kristopher, an avid golfer, also appreciated the home's proximity to the Baton Rouge Country Club golf course, allowing him easy access to his hobby. The home's design, both inside and out, reflects the couple's personal style and preferences, providing a comfortable and serene environment that integrates their individual backgrounds and interests. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AestheticChanges #NewOrleansStyle #BatonRougeHome #KitchenRenovation #CourtyardGardens #BlackAndWhiteDecor