Maxi Beam and lighting in dramatic lift lobby fitout

This article explores the enduring appeal of loft living, showcasing 12 distinct examples of modern lofts from the Dwell Magazine archives. Lofts are characterized by their industrial flavor, open floor plans, and their ability to blend work and home life seamlessly, appealing to a creative, city-dwelling demographic. The featured lofts demonstrate a wide range of transformations, from historical factory buildings and warehouses to more compact, unconventional spaces, each maintaining a distinctive industrial aesthetic while serving as modern residences or live/work environments. The article begins by highlighting a 17th-century manufacturing plant in Paris, reimagined as author and French designer Daniel Rozensztroch's industrial loft. This space retains its historical character with vintage iron cabinets and industrial-inspired lighting. Next, a Barcelona warehouse is presented as a live/work space for an architect and artist, featuring a courtyard that provides a transition between living and working areas. A compact three-story brick boiler room in San Francisco is shown to have been ingeniously transformed into a loft-like guesthouse, maximizing vertical space within a small footprint. Further examples include a renovated apartment in an 1864 factory building in Tribeca, New York, where partitions were removed and ceilings raised to create a spacious feel. A modern live/work space in Chicago, constructed from concrete panels, pays homage to its industrial neighborhood's history. Copenhagen features a converted loft in a former Viking pencil factory, adapted for a modern family. In Jersey City, a 19th-century Wells Fargo horse-and-carriage facility became a flexible art studio and residence for a pair of artists. The article also features an industrial loft in Italy, a 200-year-old factory transformed into an inviting home by designer Paola Navone. In Brooklyn, the founders of Calico Wallpaper reside in a rental flat that was once a 19th-century warehouse, preserving exposed structural beams. A cinder-block duplex in Charleston, Virginia, was creatively challenged and transformed into an elegant, gallery-like New York-style loft. An auto repair garage in San Francisco's South of Market neighborhood became an artist's loft, serving as a perfect live/work retreat with space for an art gallery, studio, and office. Finally, a former Portland, Oregon, warehouse and auto repair shop was renovated into a versatile live/work space. These diverse projects collectively illustrate the versatility and appeal of industrial-style loft conversions, demonstrating how historical structures can be adapted into functional and aesthetically pleasing modern homes. #LoftLiving #IndustrialDesign #LiveWorkSpaces #UrbanHomes #AdaptiveReuse #ModernLofts #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #WarehouseConversion

The article presents a curated collection of 25 grand foyers, all characterized by their high ceilings, designed to inspire elegance and drama in an entryway. Each example showcases a distinct style, ranging from classic to contemporary, and highlights various design elements that contribute to a luxurious and inviting first impression. The featured foyers incorporate diverse architectural and decorative details such as striking chandeliers, elegant staircases, and beautiful flooring. They demonstrate how different materials, color palettes, and stylistic choices can transform a functional space into a captivating area. Several examples illustrate the concept of captivating luxury, featuring oversized chandeliers as central focal points within spacious entryways. High contrast designs are explored through elements like bright white spiral staircases against dark navy walls, creating visual interest and dynamism. The inclusion of historic homes, such as one in San Francisco's Pacific Heights Neighborhood, demonstrates the integration of wood paneling and traditional chandeliers to maintain historic charm while achieving grandeur. Light and bright foyers are presented with white walls and crystal chandeliers complemented by dark wood accents and soft carpeting, emphasizing an airy and welcoming atmosphere. Glamorous entryways are detailed with custom railings, plaster walls, and marble flooring, designed to leave guests captivated upon arrival. The fusion of classic and contemporary styles is shown through black and white tiled floors in modern spaces. Modern luxury is further exemplified by shining white floors, waterfall chandeliers, and grand pianos, creating a lavish environment. The article also includes examples that integrate a splash of color, such as dark woods paired with bright blue accents in a stylish penthouse foyer. Designs focusing on striking beauty highlight crystal empire chandeliers as focal points, adding sophistication to grand foyers. Bright neutral palettes are demonstrated through light wood paneled ceilings and brown and beige flooring tiles, creating a stylish and subdued elegance. Grand elegance is achieved with gold accents, unique furniture pieces like Lalique cactus tables, and imperial staircases. Modern earth tones are showcased in foyers featuring custom staircases and large steel windows, providing a natural yet contemporary feel. Crisp white aesthetics are featured with custom designed handrails and all-white interiors, emphasizing cleanliness and sophistication. Bright and spacious entryways are illustrated by airy foyers in estates, designed to maximize light and openness. Gorgeous grays are presented in entryway hallways with tall, modern, and sophisticated gray walls. Farmhouse-style interiors with double-height foyers and wood-beamed ceilings offer a rustic yet grand appeal. Modern style foyers incorporate statement wallcoverings, intriguing lighting displays, and floating wooden staircases. Traditional beauty is conveyed through columns and barrel-vaulted ceilings, lending a classic touch to the space. Contemporary charm is captured in designs featuring modern aesthetics in picturesque locations like Aspen, Colorado. Chic and captivating foyers draw attention with black and white gallery walls and eye-catching chandeliers. The article also touches upon midcentury retreats with floor-to-ceiling windows, red hot interiors with bold carpeting, neutral gray schemes, and spaces that mix and match materials and finishes for elevated design, concluding with traditional palace designs featuring intricate murals, gold accents, and classic columns. #FoyerDesign #HighCeilings #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #EntrywayIdeas #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #StaircaseDesign #ChandelierLighting

The article details the transformation of a co-op lobby in the St. George Tower in Brooklyn Heights, a building with a rich history as part of the grand St. George Hotel. For decades after its conversion to co-ops in 1984, the lobby, which was originally the hotel's service entrance at 111 Hicks Street, remained uninspired, characterized by sponge-painted beige walls and a generally drab appearance. The renovation project, undertaken by Katz Architecture, aimed to revitalize this space, drawing inspiration from the building's original Art Deco heritage. Before the renovation, the lobby was divided into three distinct levels: an entrance area with a concierge desk, a lower service zone, and an upper mailroom and elevator bank accessible via stairs. The existing design was worn and poorly lit, featuring quarry tile flooring that contributed to its unappealing aesthetic. Katz Architecture envisioned a space that would evoke the opulence and playfulness of the hotel's original Egyptian Art Deco interiors, making it both dramatic and inviting. The renovation involved several key changes to achieve this vision. The design team selected 'shimmery' materials and dark wood finishes to introduce visual contrast and drama. A significant structural alteration included raising the ceiling, which enhanced the sense of spaciousness within the lobby. The concierge desk was also relocated to improve the flow and functionality of the room. The outdated quarry tile floor was replaced with elegant terrazzo, and an aluminum-leaf and black plaster wall was installed to cleverly conceal the ramp leading to the lower service area. David Katz, Principal of Katz Architecture, emphasized the incorporation of craftsmanship in the details, citing elements such as hand-applied aluminum leaf panels and custom-designed railings. The new concierge desk, crafted from dark wood and white marble, features a faceted wall behind it that hides the service area ramp. The geometric patterns in the light fixtures and metal railings were intentionally chosen to reflect an Art Deco aesthetic without appearing anachronistic or 'kitschy.' A subtle yet significant detail highlighted by Katz was the use of nickel silver in the reveals and corners of the fumed oak and black Venetian plaster panels, adding a touch of 1930s 'pizazz.' The entire renovation process spanned approximately nine months and incurred a cost of $1 million. The upper mailroom and elevator area were also updated, featuring a softer ambiance with a gray carpet and light curtains. Katz Architecture specializes in residential design and consulting, particularly assisting co-op and condo boards with renovation projects. The project successfully transformed a previously neglected and uninviting service entrance into a sophisticated and glamorous lobby that honors the building's historical grandeur. #BrooklynHeights #CoopLobbyRenovation #KatzArchitecture #ArtDecoDesign #StGeorgeTower #InteriorTransformation #LuxuryRenovation #HistoricBuilding #BrooklynRealEstate

Ceiling designs are a crucial element in shaping the visual appeal of retail spaces, playing a significant role in creating a distinct atmosphere that influences the customer experience. Innovative ceiling designs offer an economical method to transform an ordinary area into a more captivating and personalized setting, effectively reflecting the brand's identity and values. Design elements such as colors, lighting, textures, and contours can be integrated into ceiling compositions to enhance the overall customer encounter and strengthen brand recognition. These designs also contribute to the operational efficiency of a retail environment by reducing noise, improving insulation, and regulating climate. The article explores ten modern ceiling design ideas for shops, suitable for both small and pop-up retail establishments. The first idea, an office reception false ceiling design, features suspended black pipes arranged assymmetrically with strategically placed lighting, creating a bold and ingenious visual marvel. The second design, a cloth shop ceiling, utilizes PVC false ceilings with elaborate patterns and three-dimensional effects, transforming mundane ceilings into artful expressions. For barber shops, a sophisticated wooden ceiling design is suggested, incorporating elegant wooden planks and suspended LED lights to create a professional and serene ambiance. A readymade cloth shop ceiling design highlights sleek aluminum LED strip lights to brighten the space and create an immersive shopping experience. Acoustic panel ceilings are presented as a blend of aesthetics and practicality, with panels mounted on walls and corner-mounted lights emphasizing textures and patterns for an immersive atmosphere. A modern ceiling design for shops incorporates gracefully rendered leaf incarnations and diffused LED lights, bringing nature-inspired allure and innovative lighting to the space. Another idea, the latest false ceiling design, is described as a regal masterpiece with intricate patterns, flower motifs, and a contrasting wooden ceiling panel, exuding luxury and traditional craftsmanship. A ceiling decor idea emphasizes circular and curved patterns with golden lights, creating a sophisticated and glamorous effect suitable for both residential and commercial settings. Two metal ceiling designs are also highlighted: one that pays homage to the past with distinct, detailed metal tiles in an amiable and rustic charm, and another where each metal tile acts as a storyteller through intricate patterns and vibrant colors, creating a gallery of personal expressions. The conclusion reiterates the importance of false ceiling designs in creating attractive and engaging ambiances that align with a brand's identity. Modern and innovative designs, combined with functional aspects like insulation and noise control, contribute to a comfortable and welcoming environment, encouraging customer loyalty. Staying updated with evolving design trends is essential for shop owners to remain competitive in the market. #CeilingDesign #RetailSpace #ShopInteriors #ModernDesign #FalseCeiling #LightingDesign #InteriorDesign #AcousticPanels #BrandIdentity

The LIFX SuperColor Ceiling light represents a significant advancement in smart lighting solutions, particularly for those seeking a flush-mount fixture. This review highlights its ease of installation, versatile features, and overall performance as a smart home device. The product, described as a flat-walled disc measuring 15 inches across and less than 3 inches in height, is designed to replace existing flush mount fixtures, pendants, or chandeliers. Its aesthetic appeal is noted, blending seamlessly into a room when off and offering dynamic lighting options when in use. A key strength of the LIFX SuperColor Ceiling is its remarkably simple installation process. The design incorporates a sturdy mounting bracket that attaches to the ceiling receptacle with two bolts, and electrical connections are made via pre-attached push-in wire connectors. A notable feature is a clip system that temporarily holds the light a few inches below the ceiling, providing ample space for wiring, thus facilitating a one-person installation within minutes. This ease of setup is a direct contrast to other smart ceiling lights on the market, which can be more labor-intensive and require multiple people. However, a minor drawback identified during installation is the security of the push-in style electrical connectors, especially when dealing with thinner, braided smart home wiring rather than traditional copper household wiring. The reviewer opted to replace these with more secure wire nuts for their specific setup, though it's acknowledged that most users connecting to rigid household wiring might not face the same issue. Once physically installed, the Matter-compatible LIFX Ceiling light boasts a quick setup process, involving a QR code scan for connection to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. Its integration with various smart home ecosystems, including iOS Home, Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, and Razer Chroma, is seamless. The LIFX app, while effective, is described as somewhat obtuse, requiring users to become accustomed to its interface for optimal control. Functionally, the light features two independent lighting zones: a downlight and an accent uplight. The downlight is particularly advanced, comprising 56 individually configurable zones, which allows for intricate and customized lighting designs. Users can choose from a broad spectrum of white light (1500K to 9000K), full-color options, or dynamic effects like color-shifting fireworks or cloud simulations. Despite the extensive features, the app's interface can sometimes lead to accidental overwriting of saved scenes and inconsistent display of brightness percentages or color temperatures, making fine-tuning a potentially frustrating experience. In terms of performance, the LIFX Ceiling Light offers a maximum brightness of 2500 lumens. It draws 47 watts of power, which is significantly higher than a standard LED bulb, potentially raising concerns for energy-conscious consumers. Another minor performance issue noted is the slight variation in light output between multiple units, requiring manual adjustments to achieve identical lighting schemes across several fixtures. Priced at $90, the LIFX SuperColor Ceiling light is considered a good value given its quality, versatility, and sleek design, ultimately earning its place as a top pick for smart ceiling lights. #LIFX #SmartLighting #CeilingLight #SmartHome #HomeAutomation #InstallationReview #LightingTechnology #MatterCompatible #HomeOfficeUpgrade

Kimberly Awad, a tech professional in New York City, meticulously sought out a unique living space after 12 years in the city, transitioning from a modern high-rise to a Brooklyn loft with character. Her search on StreetEasy utilized keywords such as 'loft,' 'exposed beams,' 'exposed brick,' 'industrial,' and 'high ceilings,' leading her to the perfect unit which she secured on the same day as her initial viewing. This studio apartment, spanning 900 to 1,000 square feet, is situated across the East River in Brooklyn. The defining features of Kimberly's loft are its impressive 15-foot ceilings and expansive walls, which she envisions as a canvas for a growing art collection. To complement this gallery-like aesthetic, she has opted for a minimalist approach, keeping the walls white and selecting low, neutral-toned furniture. A significant design element in her home is a 12-foot Audrey Ficus tree, a striking plant that often leads guests to question its authenticity. Her furniture choices include a secondhand white linen Restoration Hardware Cloud sofa and a white linen Soft Frame Designs bed, both chosen for their quality materials and harmonious visual flow. While the loft largely met Kimberly's criteria, the kitchen initially presented a design challenge with its orange subway tiles. Rather than replacing them, she embraced the existing color scheme by painting the kitchen walls in a similar shade, Farrow & Ball's Dutch Orange, with plans to add a third coat. The kitchen features a substantial 6-foot-wide solid wood slab table from Burke Decor, which serves dual purposes as a workspace for her two to three days a week of remote work and as a gathering spot for weekend hosting. She prioritizes a well-stocked bar and an updated Spotify playlist for entertaining. Kimberly's home reflects her personality, which she describes as akin to a Libra: embodying romantic details, an aesthetically pleasing environment, and serving as a social hub for friends and laughter. She maintains a strict 'shoes off, no bad vibes, speak nicely to Audrey (the tree)' policy within her home. Despite being a single-room studio, Kimberly perceives the space as well-distributed, with the bed feeling sufficiently separate from the kitchen and entry areas. The loft also boasts ample storage, which Kimberly humorously refers to as her home's 'dirty secret.' Future plans include upgrading the bathroom. The inspiration for starting her art collection came from the previous tenant, an artist whose work was displayed throughout the loft, from whom Kimberly even purchased a piece. #BrooklynLoft #HighCeilings #IndustrialDesign #InteriorDecor #HomeStyling #ArtCollection #KitchenRenovation #SpaceUtilization #NewYorkLiving

Artist and architect Inés Esnal has unveiled her Prism installation, transforming the lobby of a new residential building in New York City. The artwork utilizes colorful elastic ropes to create intricate triangular formations that serve to filter light, producing a dynamic interplay of vivid colors and optical illusions. This installation provides a stark and compelling contrast to the lobby's existing concrete walls, injecting an element of artistic vibrancy into the otherwise stark architectural setting. The Prism installation is characterized by its use of stretched elastic ropes, meticulously arranged to form geometric patterns. These ropes, varying in color, intersect and overlap, creating a complex web that interacts with the ambient light. As light passes through these colored strands, it is fractured and dispersed, casting a spectrum of hues across the lobby space. This optical phenomenon changes throughout the day, depending on the angle and intensity of natural light, offering a constantly evolving visual experience for residents and visitors. The design intention behind Prism is to introduce an element of surprise and visual engagement within a functional architectural space. By contrasting the inherent rigidity and monochromatic nature of concrete with the fluidity and vibrant palette of the elastic ropes, Esnal challenges conventional perceptions of lobby design. The installation effectively redefines the entrance area, transforming it from a transitional zone into an immersive artistic environment. Esnal's work often explores the relationship between art, architecture, and human perception. In Prism, she employs principles of geometry and optics to manipulate space and light, thereby creating an illusory depth and movement within a static structure. The triangular shapes formed by the ropes evoke the concept of prisms, which are known for their ability to refract light into its constituent colors. This not only imbues the space with aesthetic appeal but also invites viewers to contemplate the scientific and artistic principles at play. The installation aims to enhance the sensory experience of the building's occupants, offering a momentary escape from the urban environment. The selection of elastic ropes as the primary material allows for flexibility in form and an ethereal quality that belies the material's strength. This choice also contributes to the lightweight and seemingly gravity-defying appearance of the artwork, further emphasizing its illusory nature. The vibrant colors chosen are intended to evoke a sense of energy and warmth, counteracting the potentially cold aesthetic of modern concrete architecture. The overall effect is one of harmony between the artistic intervention and the architectural context, demonstrating how art can profoundly alter and enrich built environments. #ArchitecturalInstallation #PublicArt #LobbyDesign #InesEsnal #OpticalIllusions #ElasticRopeArt #NYCArchitecture #ColorTheory #GeometricArt

Floor-to-ceiling windows are a design element that maximizes natural light and offers expansive views, making a space feel larger and more connected to its surroundings. This architectural feature is particularly impactful when a home boasts a spectacular vista, whether it's a sprawling forest, a serene beach, or a vibrant city skyline. The glass panels often extend both vertically and horizontally, creating an almost alfresco living experience. Beyond the visual appeal, these windows bring abundant light into interiors throughout the day. A kitchen, for instance, can be bathed in bright, cheerful morning light, while a living room can be imbued with a warm glow as the sun sets. To further enhance the aesthetic impact of floor-to-ceiling windows, design considerations can include painting the window sashes and mullions in a dark hue. This choice creates a striking contrast against the outdoor scenery, making the vista pop even more. However, the inherent beauty of the view itself often negates the need for elaborate additional adornments. The article showcases 25 diverse examples from the Architectural Digest archives, illustrating how floor-to-ceiling windows are integrated into various residential settings. These examples highlight a range of interior design styles and geographical locations, demonstrating the versatility of this architectural element. In a Connecticut house by Carrier and Co., cube chairs by Desiron are positioned to face the living area's floor-to-ceiling windows, inviting inhabitants to engage with the exterior. Kara Ross and Stephen Ross's New York apartment, designed by Ingrao Inc., features city views through curtained windows, complemented by vintage French mahogany floor lamps and a papier-mâché sculpture. A San Francisco residence, furnished by Ken Fulk, boasts a 27-foot-tall window in the great room, offering sweeping cityscapes. The master bedroom of a New York Hudson River Valley retreat, designed by architect Joel Sanders, includes a Poliform platform bed and a CB2 Peekaboo table by the windows, paired with a vintage Frank Gehry Wiggle chair. An art-collecting couple's home in Amagansett, New York, by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, features a sun-drenched open living area framed by Duratherm doors and windows, with custom-made sofas upholstered in Rubelli fabric and a Stark rug. In Laguna Beach, California, a home by Ehrlich Architects integrates a window wall in the master bedroom that slides open to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, with beds by Roche Bobois. Designer John Barman's Miami Beach apartment utilizes a retractable, floor-to-ceiling door to provide immediate ocean views from every room, showcasing Thonet chairs and vintage accessories. A Los Angeles house decorated by Dan Fink features a Poul Kjærholm leather-top stool and a Vladimir Kagan sofa within a great room that connects to the outside through large windows. A Manhattan apartment by Tony Ingrao and Randy Kemper incorporates a Jeff Koons sculpture and vintage Fritz Henningsen chairs at a window wall. Architect Antoine Predock designed a New Mexico home with a master bedroom offering mountain views, where coyotes have been observed walking outside the windows. Jamie Drake’s New York City living room combines a custom cocktail table and sectional sofa with a Pedro Friedeberg Hand chair and gold-leafed floor lamps, all benefiting from ample natural light. A home by Lake|Flato Architects near Austin, Texas, provides broad views of downtown through expansive windows, accented by a large-scale artwork by Vik Muniz. The Florida living room of Judy Blume and George Cooper, renovated by Thomas E. Pope and Malcolm James Kutner, is bordered by a garden rich with palms and orchids, visible through its windows. Adam Levine’s Hollywood Hills living room, designed by Mark Haddaway, is a carefully curated space of vintage pieces, illuminated by natural light. Lee F. Mindel of Shelton, Mindel & Assoc. designed a New York City apartment living area with stools and wicker lounge chairs by Poul Kjærholm, arranged on a custom-made V’Soske carpet. In Nashville, Tennessee, a family room by McAlpine Booth & Ferrier Interiors features a Sutherland lounge chair and a Flexform sectional sofa, with Donghia fabric curtains. A Commune-designed house in Los Angeles incorporates reclaimed-oak paneling in its double-height living room, benefiting from large windows. Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan’s Shelter Island, New York, home features custom-made ceramic tiles in a sunken living area that is brightened by natural light. A New York City pied-à-terre by Jennifer Post Design Inc. includes a vintage Stilnovo light fixture and a Minotti sofa in a living room filled with light. The kitchen of a New York City residence by ODA-Architecture features red-lacquer cabinetry and stainless-steel counters, with light streaming in through large windows. Gilles Mendel’s Manhattan apartment living room showcases an Earl Reiback artwork between nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, offering unobstructed northern city views. A Manhattan apartment’s master bath, designed by Cooper, Robertson & Partners and De la Torre Design Studio, is clad in Jerusalem Gold stone and features custom-made mirrored cabinets. A Sagaponack, New York, home by Christoff:Finio Architecture has a dining area with a Geoff Kuzara mobile and vintage Walter Gropius chairs, situated to take advantage of natural light. Lastly, a Shelter Island, New York, master bedroom by Michael Haverland Architect and Philip Galanes is lined with Carolyn Ray wallpaper and benefits from significant window space, and a New York City living room by Len Morgan features a George III sofa and antique Irish armchairs, illuminated by the natural light from the windows. #FloorToCeilingWindows #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalFeatures #LuxuryHomes #ModernLiving #ResidentialArchitecture #StunningViews

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

Double-height ceilings introduce a significant stylistic element into interior design, creating expansive and dramatic spaces. This architectural feature presents numerous possibilities for decoration, accommodating large-scale elements like grand chandeliers and bold surface treatments. The article showcases 19 distinct examples from the archives of Architectural Digest, illustrating how various designers have leveraged the generous verticality of these rooms across different settings. Each example highlights unique design choices and inspirations, ranging from sophisticated urban residences to rustic estates and modernist layouts. One featured space is a New York pied-à-terre, where interior designer Jean-Louis Deniot collaborated with SPAN Architecture. The double-height living room features a Deniot-designed daybed, vintage pieces such as a FontanaArte side table, an Ado Chale cocktail table, and an Edward Wormley sofa. Art by Mauro Perucchetti, 1950s table lamps, and a custom silk rug complete the elegant ensemble. Another illustration is a Tennessee house renovated by DA|AD and decorated by McAlpine Booth & Ferrier Interiors, where a floral light sculpture by U-Ram Choe is a focal point in the double-height living room, complemented by Great Plains fabric curtains, a Chista cocktail table, and vintage Tommi Parzinger and William Haines Designs seating. A Los Angeles home, renovated by Commune, exhibits a double-height living room with reclaimed-oak paneling for a rustic feel, contrasted by dark custom-blended Benjamin Moore paint on beams and trim. Notable furnishings include a custom floor lamp by Downtown, a cocktail table by Alma Allen for Commune, a Vladimir Kagan Contour chaise, and an overscale floor lamp by Bottega Veneta. The residence of decorator Laura Santos in New York features a curvilinear Vladimir Kagan sofa, a vintage cocktail table, a 1940s French floor lamp, and a Dune bench, all set against walls painted in Benjamin Moore white. John Mellencamp's South Carolina house, designed by Monique Gibson, includes a double-height living hall inspired by a church nave. This space is furnished with a custom dining table adorned with a whale-rib sculpture and various wing and armchairs from Lucca Antiques. In a Long Island home redesigned by Thierry Despont, a barrel-vaulted great room boasts a custom Jeff Zimmerman light fixture, an ottoman clad in cowhide, and Guglielmo Ulrich wood-frame armchairs. Architect Benedikt Bolza's Umbrian estate features a double-height master bath with custom-designed mirrors, heated copper towel racks, and travertine-top washstands. A Toronto home by Katherine Newman and Peter Cebulak presents a double-height library with mahogany- and satinwood-inlaid paneling. India Mahdavi's renovation of a Connecticut estate includes a double-height formal dining area with Hans J. Wegner chairs and a custom table by Mahdavi. A Los Cabos, Mexico, home designed by Olson Kundig Architects and Terry Hunziker incorporates an overhead alder trellis in its double-height living room, which opens to the beach. An entrance hall in a Los Angeles home, renovated by Oscar Shamamian and Michael S. Smith, blends American and English furniture with contemporary art. A Russian country retreat by Gabhan O’Keeffe features a drawing room with a double sofa and Charles Edwards floor lamps. In a Manhattan duplex by ODA-Architecture, a Luceplan USA light fixture illuminates a double-height living room with Poltrona Frau sofas and a marble cocktail table. Frédéric Fekkai and Shirin von Wulffen's villa near Aix-en-Provence includes a double-height solarium with a Marie Christophe chandelier and antique furniture. Darren Star's Hollywood home, renovated by Mark Rios and Waldo Fernandez, has a double-height family room centered around a bronze-clad fireplace. A Manhattan apartment by David Mann features a splendidly austere double-height entrance hall with an Hervé Van der Straeten pendant light and gray onyx floors. An Aspen getaway by William Sofield showcases a double-height living room with custom-made sofas and a blackened-steel cocktail table. Francis D’Haene transformed a barn-inspired home in Remsenburg, New York, into a minimalist haven with a double-height living area. Finally, a Manhattan penthouse by Delphine Krakoff and Mark Ferguson features a double-height tower room with George Smith sofas and a vintage Tobia Scarpa cocktail table. These examples collectively demonstrate the versatility and aesthetic impact of double-height ceilings in creating dramatic and functional interior spaces. #DoubleHeightCeilings #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalElements #LivingRooms #DesignInspiration #HighCeilings #RoomDrama

The often-overlooked ceiling presents a significant opportunity for aesthetic enhancement in home design, moving beyond its traditional role as an afterthought. Attractive ceilings can establish powerful aesthetic statements and serve as crucial backdrops for interior concepts. Recent trends, as observed at Milan Design Week, highlight the popularity of brightly colored and patterned ceilings, incorporating bold colors, contemporary gypsum or wooden mouldings, and fabric designs featuring hand-painted landscapes, chinoiserie, or toile de Jouy patterns that are easy to apply. Jen McCombie, head of marketing at Indigo Living, emphasizes the unique appeal and ease of application of these wallpapers. Dan Lee, co-founder of Ovo Group, suggests that adding coving with concealed LED lights or uplit cornices with organic, layered forms, reminiscent of Zaha Hadid's work, can make a grand design statement. Such statement ceilings enhance a room's spatial hierarchy, making it feel more voluminous and sophisticated. Crystel See, retail operations manager at Organic Modernism, points out that leaving wood or metal ceiling beams exposed is another effective way to create visually interesting ceilings. While homes with high ceilings offer elegance and luxury, they can sometimes feel cold or disconnected from the floor area due to unused wall space above the eight-foot mark. To counteract this, warmth and coziness should be prioritized. To better integrate the lower and upper sections of high-ceilinged rooms, See recommends decorating one or two walls all the way up to the ceiling with paintings or ornaments. This strategy utilizes the large blank canvas of the upper wall space to introduce color, texture, and design details, drawing the eye upwards and highlighting the loftiness of the space. Possible elements for enlivening dead ceiling space include tall shelving, fabric wall hangings, decorative masks, baskets, fans, or faux antler heads. Book-lovers can even create a feature wall of bookcases or floating shelves in the upper sections of walls. For rooms with low ceilings, Michelle Koller, creative director of Tequila Kola, advises using darker paints or wallpaper to visually reduce the scale, creating a more intimate atmosphere. Artistic homeowners might consider painting a mural for a fresco-like ceiling feature or incorporating a tall grandfather clock. Kate Babington, managing director of TREE, refers to the ceiling as the “fifth wall” and suggests painting low ceilings in a shade lighter than the other walls to create an illusion of greater height, a particularly useful tip for homes in Hong Kong where high ceilings are less common. Koller agrees that lighter, neutral colors or wallpaper can help divert attention from the lack of ceiling height. Additionally, selecting low-profile furniture such as sofas, chairs, and tables is crucial for low-ceilinged rooms, as bulky items can make the space feel smaller; low-slung furniture leaves more open space above, contributing to a breezier, open feel. Chandeliers and pendant lamps are excellent accents for jazzing up ceilings, especially in spaces with ample height. Replacing standard light fixtures with well-designed hanging lamps can instantly elevate a room. Lee recommends long, cluster lamps for high ceilings to emphasize verticality, while Babington favors statement pendants made from natural materials like handwoven rattan, which add texture and cast alluring shadows. See suggests rope fixtures with Edison light bulbs, and notes that modern glass and bronze chandeliers are also popular choices for high ceilings. For low ceilings, Lee advises using mirror installations to create an illusion of height and opting for flat ceiling lamps for a streamlined look, explicitly recommending against overhead lighting or ceiling fans in favor of wall-mounted lights or strategically placed mirrors. Statement ceilings offer a unique focal point, but balance is key; McCombie stresses that ceilings should complement the overall decor and support the elements below, ensuring they enhance rather than overwhelm the aesthetic. #CeilingDesign #InteriorLighting #HomeDecoration #HighCeilings #LowCeilings #SpatialHierarchy #DesignTrends #WallpaperDesigns #FurniturePlacement

Designer Lee Broom launched his new 'Optical' lighting collection by transforming his studio's delivery van into a mobile exhibition space. This innovative concept, named 'Salone del Automobile,' involved meticulously designing the van's interior to resemble a traditional Italian palazzo. The transformation included painting the van's interior in Broom's signature grey, and adding ornate Corinthian columns, architraves, and stuccoed details, complemented by an illuminated floor. This elaborately decorated van served as a dramatic backdrop for the new monochromatic lighting fixtures. The 'Salone del Automobile' embarked on a journey from Broom's London headquarters to Milan, where it was showcased at various prominent locations during Salone del Mobile, including Brera Design District, Spazio Rossana Orlandi, ZonaTortona, San Gregorio Docet, and Ventura Lambrate. This unconventional exhibition strategy allowed the collection to reach a wider audience and provided a unique viewing experience, highlighting the pieces within an unexpected, yet grand, setting. The 'Optical' lighting collection itself features illuminated globes adorned with graphic, linear patterns. These designs are asymmetrical, creating a dynamic visual effect where their appearance shifts depending on the viewer's angle. Broom drew inspiration for this collection from his own experiences in the early 1990s, specifically recalling his use of monochrome graphics when decorating his bedroom. This personal connection to the design imbues the collection with a sense of nostalgia while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. The collection is characterized by its stark black and white palette, which further emphasizes the graphic quality of the patterns. Each piece is designed to create an interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the 'optical' illusion and making the fixtures captivating from all perspectives. The installation within the van was carefully orchestrated to maximize this effect, presenting the lights as functional art pieces within a curated, mobile environment. This method of presentation not only served as a launch for the 'Optical' collection but also demonstrated a creative approach to exhibition design in the competitive world of furniture and lighting. By bringing the showroom directly to the audience in an artistic and memorable way, Lee Broom successfully generated significant attention and discussion around his new works, solidifying his reputation for innovative design and marketing. #LeeBroom #LightingDesign #SaloneDelMobile #ProductLaunch #ExhibitionDesign #OpticalLighting #MilanDesignWeek #InteriorDesign

Vaulted ceilings offer a significant architectural feature that can enhance a home's sense of space, light, and overall value. This article explores 22 distinct ideas for incorporating vaulted ceilings into various areas of a home, from living rooms and kitchens to bedrooms and outdoor spaces. One common approach involves contrasting colors, such as a white wooden vaulted ceiling paired with dark brown exposed beams, as seen in a Lake Burton bedroom. This technique highlights architectural features and can harmonize with other elements in the room, like doors. For outdoor areas, vaulted ceilings can frame natural views, maximizing the visual connection to the surrounding environment, as demonstrated by an outdoor dining pavilion designed to offer expansive views of trees and a lake. Nuances in color are also explored; for instance, mixing shades of white, where a brighter white ceiling contrasts subtly with cream-colored walls, can create depth without stark divisions. Leveraging beautiful property views is another key theme, with high vaulted ceilings and neutral palettes allowing a living room to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Color can also be a central element, with a kitchen featuring a soft blue (Sherwin-Williams Waterscape) extending from walls to the vaulted ceiling to create a cohesive and elongated appearance. The use of wood is a recurring motif, with suggestions ranging from mixing different wood colors and types for a rustic farmhouse aesthetic, to combining painted wood with stained wood beams for a contrasting yet blended look. Incorporating unique beam patterns, such as those milled in an early 20th-century style, can create a striking focal point. For a more modern twist, beams can be placed away from the ceiling, creating a distinct visual element. Lighting plays a crucial role in vaulted ceiling designs. Adding a long, ornate light fixture can fill the vertical space and serve as a statement piece. Creative lighting options include globe pendants that draw the eye upward, complementing exposed wood ceilings. Natural light is also prioritized through the inclusion of numerous windows or skylights, which can flood spaces like dining rooms with sunlight and make them feel more open. Functionality is also considered, with vaulted ceilings providing ample height for features such as elongated fireplaces, which create a cozy and natural ambiance. They can also facilitate practical elements like porch swings, ensuring adequate height and stability, or allow for innovative sleeping arrangements, such as stacked bunk beds in bedrooms to maximize guest capacity. Maintaining continuous support beams that align with other architectural features, like window frames, ensures a visually beautiful and intentional design. Alternative ceiling styles, like a hipped box-beam ceiling set, offer a clean, traditional look while still providing height and visual impact for those who prefer a less rustic aesthetic. Finally, the simple yet effective strategy of painting vaulted ceilings white is highlighted for its ability to capitalize on natural lighting and create bright, clean spaces, as exemplified in a bathroom design. Throughout these ideas, the emphasis is on making the fifth wall a significant and show-stopping element in home design. #VaultedCeilings #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #LightingDesign #NaturalLight #WoodBeams #RoomExpansion #RenovationIdeas

Knowhow Shop, a design/build firm based in Los Angeles, has created an experimental micro-office named Lighthouse in Highland Park. This 154-square-foot structure serves as both their office and a showcase of their innovative design and construction capabilities. The firm, founded by Kagan Taylor and Justin Rice, sought to challenge their skills by constructing a modern office that deviates from traditional architectural practices. The project aimed to free up space in their main fabrication and machine shop while also demonstrating their expertise in experimental design. The Lighthouse draws inspiration from various sources, including boatbuilding techniques, and centrally features custom-built structural insulated panels (SIPs). These SIPs, combined with a lightweight, prefabricated construction system and oversized glazed openings, contribute to the building's moniker. Taylor and Rice personally undertook the entire construction process, including tasks they had no prior experience with, such as installing glazing, fiberglass, and a topcoat, as well as the interior fit-out and finishes. This hands-on approach allowed them to bypass conventional architectural production methods and fully leverage their design/build model. Operating with an approximate budget of $50,000, including labor time, the project was completed entirely in-house between other client projects. The design emphasized fundamental architectural elements—door, window, and skylight—approaching the construction more like crafting a piece of furniture than a conventional building. The custom front door features an August Smart Lock and eschews right angles, reflecting the project's unconventional aesthetic. A custom-made skylight integrates traditional boatbuilding materials with elements inspired by car sunroofs. The interior worktops are made from Formica 2297 Terril, and a custom Douglas Fir bookshelf echoes the angular geometry of the office. Flexibility and mobility were key design considerations. The micro-office is not set on a traditional foundation but rather on industrial casters, similar to those used for roll-off dumpsters, allowing it to be easily moved around the shop-yard. Its asymmetrical wedge shape was partly influenced by the need to accommodate forklift clearances for transporting plywood into their adjacent shop. The flooring is Douglas Fir with an OSMO finish, while the angled walls and ceiling are constructed from Douglas Fir Marine Grade Plywood with a whitewash finish. Taylor and Rice envision Lighthouse as more than just an office; it functions as a testament to their craftsmanship and a practical example of rethinking architectural design and construction methods. They hope that future iterations of "Lighthouses" could inspire a movement towards smaller, sustainable buildings that incorporate contemporary architectural principles. The project includes detailed floor plans and wall sections, highlighting the innovative construction. It was published in October 2018, emphasizing its relevance to small spaces and modern workplace design. #MicroOffice #ExperimentalArchitecture #DesignBuildFirm #StructuralInsulatedPanels #PrefabricatedConstruction #LosAngelesDesign #SmallSpaces #ModernDesign #MobileArchitecture

New York City lofts have a rich history, transitioning from industrial warehouses and manufacturing centers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries into desirable residential spaces. These structures were characterized by high ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows, originally designed to maximize natural light for industrial purposes. By the mid-20th century, as industries relocated from Manhattan, artists and creatives began to repurpose these buildings into versatile living and working environments. Today, lofts represent a fusion of historical character and contemporary design, offering a flexible foundation for innovative renovations. One such renovation project was undertaken by BOND, a design studio led by Noam Dvir and Daniel Rauchwerger. Their task was to revitalize a 1,000-square-foot Tribeca Loft situated within a landmarked New York City building. The goal was to preserve the loft's industrial heritage while integrating a modern, bright aesthetic. This particular loft had remained largely unaltered since the 1980s, necessitating a comprehensive update to accommodate contemporary living standards. BOND's approach emphasized careful preservation and enhancement rather than stripping away the original charm. The renovation involved significant structural and systems upgrades, including replacing old wiring, removing dropped ceiling panels, and installing a central air conditioning system. These improvements were crucial for modern comfort without compromising the loft's inherent character. A key design element was the introduction of a glass partition between the bedroom and living area. This strategic addition allows natural light to permeate the entire space, creating an open and airy atmosphere while still providing a subtle division between functional zones. This technique is commonly employed in contemporary loft conversions to enhance the sense of spaciousness. Reflecting the communal aspect of New York City loft living, BOND centered the design around the kitchen. A prominent 15-foot-long island, featuring waterfall edges and a distinctive cut-in detail, serves both as a practical workspace and a central gathering point. The island is complemented by walnut 'Tractor' stools from BassamFellows, fostering social interaction and connecting to the loft's historical role as a hub for creativity and community. The design philosophy embraced the loft's ability to evolve while retaining its original character. BOND achieved a balance between minimalism and warmth through carefully selected design elements. The bathrooms incorporate subtle yet vibrant pops of color, providing a playful contrast to the overall neutral palette. Gold and brown tones were chosen to complement the natural light streaming through the west-facing windows in the main living area. Sculptural furniture pieces, such as a metal coffee table, elevate the aesthetic while maintaining a sense of flow within the space. The loft also functions as a showcase for the owners' art collection, which includes geometric works by Mika Tajima and whimsical pieces by John Armleder. This integration of art into daily life harks back to the legacy of early artist-occupied lofts in the city, which often served as both residences and creative studios. The renovation successfully transforms a historic space into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing home, honoring its past while catering to contemporary needs. #NewYorkCityLoft #LoftRenovation #BONDDesign #TribecaLoft #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation #HomeDecor

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