Float Studio Focuses on Versatility for The Commons, a SoHo Test Kitchen and Event Space

The H-House, located in a dense neighborhood in Surat, India, addresses the challenge of creating private living spaces that maintain a strong connection to nature. The design, conceptualized by Co.lab Design Studio, reverses the traditional bungalow-in-a-garden model by integrating gardens directly within the house's structure. This approach ensures that residents experience a continuous connection with green spaces, despite the urban setting. The project was completed in 2019 and spans an area of 19,375 square feet. The architectural strategy for the H-House focuses on intertwining the built environment with natural elements. The design incorporates various green spaces, such as courtyards, terraces, and internal gardens, which are seamlessly integrated into the floor plan. This allows natural light and ventilation to penetrate deep into the interior, enhancing the living experience. The choice of materials and the overall aesthetic contribute to a sense of openness and tranquility, contrasting with the busy surroundings. The house features a sophisticated interplay of concrete, glass, and wood. Large glass panels and strategically placed windows blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas, offering expansive views of the internal gardens and maximizing daylight penetration. Concrete elements are utilized for their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, providing a contemporary and robust framework. Wooden accents add warmth and natural texture to the interiors, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere. The interior layout is designed to facilitate a fluid progression through spaces, with each area offering unique visual and functional connections to the integrated green zones. Living areas, bedrooms, and common spaces are arranged around these natural pockets, ensuring privacy while fostering a sense of expansive living. The design emphasizes functionality and comfort, providing a luxurious and spacious home tailored to the owner's desire for a natural retreat within the city. Co.lab Design Studio acted as both the architects and landscape designers for the H-House, ensuring a cohesive vision for the project. Key consultants included Essact, Mandala Design Studio, and Malwawala Engineering Services Private Limited for consulting, and Sai Consultants for engineering. The photographs by Sebastian Zachariah capture the essence of the design, showcasing the integration of nature, the use of diverse materials, and the overall ambiance of the H-House. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #CoLabDesignStudio #Surat #India #IntegratedGardens #ModernArchitecture #ConcreteGlassWood #UrbanLiving #ArchitecturalPhotography

The article details the transformation of a 100-year-old shanty site in Seattle's Portage Bay into a modern floating home by Suzanne Stefan, a principal at Studio DIAA, and her husband, Raanan Schnitzer. This floating house is one of approximately 500 remaining in the city, originally built in the 1920s as inexpensive lodging. The couple, with a new baby, decided to renovate the property, which Schnitzer had owned for years, and move in full-time, embracing a lifestyle on the water despite the common reluctance for families with young children. The renovation project posed a significant challenge: working within the home's original 650-square-foot footprint to avoid lengthy permitting processes. This constraint necessitated a highly efficient and clever design to accommodate two bedrooms, living areas, and a kitchen. Stefan's approach focused on maximizing interior space by strategically utilizing the exterior. A wraparound cedar deck extends the usable square footage, and floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the rooms contribute to a sense of openness and spatial expansion, providing dynamic views of the surrounding water and its light reflections. Key design elements include an 11-foot, 6-inch gable that extends over the open kitchen, dining room, and main bedroom, creating an impression of generosity in an otherwise compact space. Every piece of furniture in the home is custom-made to fit the precise dimensions and needs of a small living area. Examples include a narrow walnut dining table, an L-shaped sectional sofa, and beds with soft bases that incorporate hidden storage, ideal for stowing seasonal items. The aesthetic of the home is defined by a minimal and buoyant palette. Whitewashed oak flooring and cabinetry, tongue-and-groove pine walls, and a stainless steel kitchen contribute to a light and airy atmosphere. Stefan consciously avoided heavy materials like concrete and stone, which she found felt out of place in other float homes, opting instead for finishes that evoke a sense of lightness and fluidity, harmonizing with the aquatic environment. The home features custom stainless steel elements, such as a waterfall island countertop and backsplash with a built-in spice shelf, crafted by Oxbow Fabrication and Helve House. Specific design details are highlighted, such as the use of Davide Groppi lights and custom curtains made from Holland & Sherry washed linen in the living room. Windows by LaCantina are large to counteract the eight-foot ceilings, and artwork by Joseph Goldberg and David Pompa side tables add character. The kitchen includes a Foscarini pendant, Liebherr fridge, and Miele dishwasher and range, complemented by vintage Thonet stools. The dining area features a custom table by Studio DIAA fabricated by Dovetail, vintage Thonet chairs, and a Franke sink with a Watermark faucet. A CrystaLite skylight in the bathroom provides natural light and ventilation, while Ann Sacks tiles and Zucchetti fixtures complete the space. The exterior features a steel wall sculpture by Peter Millett and a Hammocktown hammock, emphasizing the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living. The overall design successfully creates a tranquil and highly functional living space that embraces its unique floating context. #FloatingHome #SmallSpaceDesign #SeattleArchitecture #CustomFurniture #RenovationProject #StudioDIAA #MinimalistDesign #WaterfrontLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

Architect Wakako Tokunaga adapted her professional workspace in 2020 by designing and building a 350-square-foot studio addition at the back of her Tacoma Park, Maryland property, near Washington, D.C. This decision allowed her to avoid a costly commercial lease and provided a flexible environment for her firm, WAK TOK architects, founded in 2007. The studio’s design was meticulously planned to prevent obstruction of sunlight for neighbors and to maintain the view, while also considering its proportion to her native plant garden. The primary objective was to balance collaborative work areas with ample green space and seclusion. The studio’s design centers on functionality, simplicity, and a strong connection to nature. Two of its four walls feature sliding doors that open completely to the garden, effectively transforming the space into an “extended outdoor room.” This indoor/outdoor living concept was particularly beneficial during the pandemic, allowing Wakako to remain close to her children while working. The other two walls are fixed: one is the original exterior brick wall of her home, painted dark gray with milk paint to visually extend the outdoors inward, and the other is a solid plywood-clad wall adjacent to the neighbor's property. The interior materials are kept simple and functional, including polished concrete floors, plywood-clad walls and ceilings, and non-toxic milk paint on the existing home wall. A key element is the custom, floor-to-ceiling modular shelving system integrated into the plywood wall. This system was designed around a four-foot module, which also governed the studio's overall construction to optimize stock plywood panels and multi-slide door dimensions, thereby maximizing efficiency and minimizing material waste. The shelving features a track system with moveable brackets, allowing Wakako to easily adjust and rearrange shelves to accommodate books, material samples, and art. A deeper, hip-height shelf functions as a versatile workspace, suitable for her team or her children. Sustainability was a guiding principle, with the use of natural and non-toxic materials. Sustainably sourced pine siding, plywood, concrete, and finishes like natural pine tar, hemp oil, and milk paint were employed. The exterior features locally sourced, fast-growing black locust decking, known for its natural resistance to rot and insects. The outer shell of the studio is insulated beyond code requirements to enhance thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption. The design also emphasizes minimalism, with elements like light switches, outlets, and mechanical grills concealed to maintain a clean aesthetic, requiring precise planning and construction. Today, the studio serves multiple purposes, functioning as an architectural office for meetings and team collaboration, and occasionally hosting community and social gatherings, with potential future use as an art space. Wakako particularly values the studio's ability to create a sense of being outdoors, in close proximity to the garden, especially when the multi-slide doors are fully open. This addition exemplifies thoughtful architectural adaptation to changing needs, demonstrating a successful blend of professional utility, family integration, and environmental consciousness. #StudioExtension #ModularShelving #PlywoodDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #FlexibleWorkspace #NativeGarden #SmallSpaceDesign

The "Rendezvous for Four Generations Residence" project by FLOAT DESIGN STUDIO in Taiwan focuses on creating a living space that accommodates multiple generations while adhering to a minimalist design philosophy. Completed in 2023, the 512 m² residence is characterized by a modern, white facade and an interior design that emphasizes spatial balance, natural light, and ventilation. The core design principle of "less is more" is evident throughout the interior, which utilizes limited colors and single materials to enhance visual scale and promote a contemporary ambiance. The three-story structure is strategically designed to integrate with its environment, particularly by coordinating with westward mountain-facing, floor-to-ceiling windows. These large windows serve multiple functions: they maximize natural lighting, provide expansive views, and facilitate natural ventilation, contributing to a comfortable indoor climate. An outdoor pool further aids in micro-climate control, suggesting a holistic approach to environmental integration and occupant well-being. FLOAT DESIGN STUDIO, with Tsai Hung-Hsing and Chang Yu-Wei as lead architects and Tsai Hung-Hsing as part of the design team, aimed to create a serene and spacious environment. This was achieved through the careful selection of minimal materials, streamlined shapes, and discreet cabinetry. The emphasis on simplicity ensures that the living spaces remain uncluttered and open, allowing residents to experience a sense of calm and expansive living. The design details, such as the wood elements in the kitchen and living areas, contribute to the warmth and natural aesthetic of the home without overwhelming the minimalist theme. The project details indicate a clear focus on residential architecture and interior design, with the property classified under 'Houses' and 'House Interiors.' The photography by WHOSE IMAGE STUDIO captures the essence of the design, highlighting the interplay of light, materials, and space. The various interior shots showcase living rooms with contemporary furniture, kitchens featuring wood and modern lighting, and bedrooms designed for tranquility. The exterior photography reveals the modern facade and its connection to the surrounding landscape, including a glimpse of the balcony. Functionally, the residence is designed to support the needs of a multi-generational family, implying flexible and adaptable spaces that cater to different age groups and lifestyles. While specific details on how these multi-generational needs are addressed are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the overall design suggests a harmonious living environment achieved through thoughtful architectural planning and interior execution. The large area of the residence (512 m²) allows for ample space to accommodate the various activities and private zones required by multiple generations, further supported by the emphasis on spaciousness. The architectural approach prioritizes sustainability and natural elements, as evidenced by the focus on natural lighting, ventilation, and micro-climate control through the outdoor pool. This suggests an intention to reduce reliance on artificial systems and promote a healthier living environment. The strategic placement of windows and the consideration of the mountain views indicate a strong connection between the indoor spaces and the natural surroundings, enhancing the quality of life for the residents. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseInteriors #ModernDesign #Minimalist #NaturalLighting #Ventilation #TaiwanArchitecture #MultiGenerationalHome #FLOATDESIGNSTUDIO

Marie Lu, a bestselling author, and Primo Gallanossa, a game designer, sought a flexible and inspiring urban sanctuary in downtown Los Angeles's Arts District. They commissioned architecture firm CHA:COL to transform a 1,450-square-foot live/work loft into a space that could accommodate their writing and game design needs between frequent travels. The design brief emphasized creating a creative den for work, relaxation, and retreat. CHA:COL, led by design principals Apurva Pande and Chinmaya Misra, drew inspiration from the couple's professional backgrounds, particularly the game "Monument Valley" and the whimsical geometries of M.C. Escher. The central element of the loft is the "Writer’s Block," a custom-designed, multifaceted piece of oak veneer millwork. This versatile unit functions as a desk on one side, a lounge on the other, and incorporates shelving, effectively dividing the space while offering multiple uses. The design aimed to allow the clients to navigate and inhabit the loft in unique ways, much like Princess Ida moves through different levels in the Monument Valley game. The loft's design integrates both two-dimensional and three-dimensional elements. For example, white oak planks from the Writer’s Block seamlessly transition into FLOR carpet tiles that extend up an opposing wall, complemented by a matching mural. This playful mashup creates an optical illusion, making the two-dimensional elements appear three-dimensional and vice versa. Extensive studies were conducted to achieve the precise geometry for the wall art, eventually simplifying to paint swatches to complete the effect. Beyond the primary workspace, the loft also includes dedicated sleeping and kitchen areas. The kitchen features IKEA cabinets and a peninsular bar designed to encourage social interaction. Acoustic considerations were incorporated into the design, and the space is illuminated by a Zaneen pendant in addition to natural light from a facade of windows. The bathroom features a minimalist, monochromatic aesthetic with a custom white lacquer vanity and Porcelanosa tiles. The sleeping area is discreetly tucked away at the back of the loft, illuminated by a George Nelson Saucer Lamp. The project successfully created a highly functional and creatively stimulating environment. Initially conceived as an occasional getaway, the loft proved so effective that the clients found themselves spending more time there, reducing their need for frequent commuting. The design prioritized a simple, streamlined palette and carefully selected light fixtures that enhanced the spatial flow and movement within the loft, creating an urban oasis that fosters creativity and well-being. #LiveWorkLoft #CreativeSpace #GameDesignInspired #MultifunctionalFurniture #LosAngelesArchitecture #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #CustomMillwork

In Fairfax, California, ceramicist and Pilates instructor Annalisa Chasan and general contractor Alex Martin transformed a large, unused grass yard on their double lot into a functional accessory dwelling unit (ADU) during the pandemic. The couple sought a dedicated space for Annalisa's sculpture practice, previously confined to the main house's basement, and for hosting private Pilates classes. This dual-purpose brief was presented to Obata Noblin Office (ONO), a San Francisco-based architecture and design firm cofounded by Tyler Noblin and Max Obata. The architects approached the design by focusing on orientation, strategically angling the building around an existing magnolia tree. This created a boomerang shape that naturally divides the art and workout spaces while also forming an interior courtyard with the main house. The ceramics workspace features large sliding glass doors that open to the landscape, providing Annalisa with a visual connection to her family. On the street-facing side, a row of clerestory windows, custom-made in Sacramento with powder-coated yellow aluminum frames, allows afternoon sunlight to flood the space. The entire window set, a significant design element, cost $55,000. Noblin and Obata drew inspiration from precedents such as Ryōan-ji, the rock viewing garden in Kyoto, to emphasize views of nature. The Pilates area, similarly, incorporates floor-to-ceiling panes to capture the morning sun, fostering a meditative atmosphere. The homeowners' specific design requests included post-and-beam construction, the distinctive bright-yellow windows, and decks with overhangs. Functionality was also paramount for each internal area. The sculpture studio required a robust sink, integrated into a 12-foot-long zinc countertop, an easy-to-maintain plaster floor from EcoStucco, a dedicated kiln nook, and display areas for Annalisa’s artworks. The Pilates studio needed ample natural light, wood flooring, and space to accommodate a Pilates wall unit and floor mats. These distinct functional requirements informed the unique ambiance of each space. The Pilates studio was designed with neutral tones to create a quiet, intimate, and relaxing experience, while the art space is energetically separate, featuring pops of color in its built-ins and freestanding furniture. A folding screen door physically divides these two zones, but a continuous tongue-and-groove bleached wood ceiling unifies the overhead space. The exterior features cedar shingles on the street-side facade, chosen to blend with the neighborhood's vernacular and the main house's 1912 architecture, with the lemon-hued window frames offering a vibrant contrast. The architects aimed to imbue the ADU with an element of surprise, noting how the building’s personality shifts as one moves around the courtyard. Max Obata, whose mother was also a ceramic artist, expressed a personal connection to designing the light-filled studio for a working artist. The ADU also offers practical versatility, with a tadelakt-clad three-quarter bath designed to serve the Pilates studio but also capable of supporting future use as a guesthouse. A small room off the ceramics wing can be easily converted into a bedroom, and bespoke blue cabinetry provides multifunctional storage, seating, and shelving. Annalisa describes the building's geometries as special and inspiring, fostering a significant burst of creativity for her work. #ADUDesign #CreativeSpace #ArchitecturalDesign #FairfaxCalifornia #ObataNoblinOffice #PilatesStudio #CeramicsStudio #CustomWindows #SustainableDesign

Lori Olsen McElvain and Jay Eiler, former colleagues with a history of working together at two design firms, have reunited to establish a shared office space, transforming a former Webster dance studio into a functional and collaborative environment. This joint venture provides a mutually beneficial arrangement, especially for McElvain, who notes the challenges of maintaining a workspace alone while balancing a part-time and working mother's schedule. Eiler emphasizes that their established relationship, built on trust and respect, allows them to effectively brainstorm and share ideas, metaphorically leaving 'breadcrumbs on each other’s desk.' The designers' new office is strategically located within a developing 'mini-design district,' situated between two other interior design and architecture firms and in close proximity to a PPG Paints store, a factor Eiler highlights as making their shared space a logical choice. The office setup itself demonstrates practical design solutions for a dynamic workspace. To manage the inherent challenge of a large, open space that can quickly become cluttered, they utilize an ample supply of bins from IKEA to maintain organization and tidiness. Key features of their collaborative workspace include homemade presentation boards constructed from galvanized metal sheets set on plywood magnet boards. These boards are instrumental in helping clients visualize proposed designs, such as a unique whisk chandelier concept presented to St. Louis Kolache, one of McElvain's clients. The designers also incorporate versatile furniture, exemplified by a metal restaurant-style table that has served multiple functions, including a desk, kitchen island, and work table. Two tall desks are also present, allowing the designers to work standing up, which promotes productivity and physical well-being. This variety of surfaces is crucial for spreading out materials when working on multiple projects simultaneously. Lighting throughout the office is provided by metal Bryce table lamps, also known as hotel lamps, which are equipped with USB ports. This selection is particularly fitting given Eiler's extensive work in boutique hotel design, both nationally and locally, including the upcoming Hotel Saint Louis. These lamps serve the practical purpose of allowing the designers to charge their electronic devices throughout the day, aligning with McElvain's vision for a flexible workspace. The transformation of the dance studio into a dynamic and organized shared office underscores the designers' ability to combine their individual expertise and resources into a synergistic and efficient working model. This article was originally published in *Design STL*'s May/June 2018 issue, showcasing innovative approaches to interior design and collaborative professional spaces. #InteriorDesign #SharedWorkspace #OfficeDesign #CollaborativeEnvironment #DesignSolutions #WebsterGroves #LoriOlsenMcElvain #JayEiler #DesignSTL

After operating his architecture practice from a home office for several years, architect Randy Bens sought to expand his workspace in New Westminster, British Columbia. Rather than opting for a traditional commercial rental, Bens decided to utilize his backyard, creating a new office that maintained close proximity to his residence. This innovative solution involved converting a modified shipping container into a self-sufficient architectural studio. The shipping container, a substantial corten steel unit measuring 40 feet in length, 11.5 feet in width, and 9.5 feet in height, was designed and constructed offsite. It arrived at its final location approximately 95% complete, requiring minimal onsite installation. This prefabrication approach streamlined the construction process and allowed for precise control over the design and build quality. The robust construction of the container ensures its durability and also provides the flexibility for relocation, should the firm decide to move in the future. To accommodate the new structure, a smaller foundation was strategically built, allowing the 350-square-foot shipping container to cantilever. This design choice creates the visual impression that the studio is floating, adding an element of architectural interest and lightness to the otherwise heavy structure. The original 1930s house on the property serves as the primary utility hub, supplying the office with essential services including water, sanitary lines, power, and data connectivity. These connections were carefully run underground, maintaining a clean aesthetic and integrating the new studio seamlessly with the existing property. Externally, the shipping container is clad in yellow cedar paneling, a design decision prompted by local city regulations that mandate coverage for shipping containers used as permanent structures. These vertical cedar panels, along with the integrated window and door frames, are expected to naturally weather over time, developing a soft grey patina that will blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The steel stairs leading to the entrance have already begun to rust after one winter season, indicating a natural aging process that contributes to the building's character. Inside the studio, the design emphasizes a clean yet warm aesthetic, achieved through the extensive use of birch plywood for interior surfaces. This material choice provides a bright and inviting atmosphere, complementing the natural light entering the space. A prominent feature of the interior is a 19-foot-long desk, meticulously crafted from Douglas Fir. This expansive desk offers ample workspace for employees and provides a focal point for the open studio layout. The overall design aims to create a productive and inspiring environment, facilitating client meetings and collaborative work while maintaining the architect's connection to his home. This project exemplifies a creative and practical approach to expanding a professional practice within a residential setting, utilizing unconventional materials to achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing result. #ArchitectureStudio #ShippingContainer #HomeOffice #ModularDesign #SustainableArchitecture #NewWestminster #ArchitecturalInnovation #SmallSpaceDesign

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 book "Work From Shed" by Hoxton Mini Press showcases a diverse collection of garden studios, garages, and sheds from various international locations, offering insights into their architectural possibilities as home workspaces. The book's creation was influenced by the increased adoption of working from home due to the coronavirus pandemic, leading to a new fluidity in work environments. Martin Usborne, creative director at Hoxton Mini Press, highlights the personal nature of working from home, which fosters greater expression in the design of workspaces, encouraging surprising, playful, and beautiful structures that are also varied and adaptable. This compilation features ten distinct home studios, each demonstrating unique design approaches and functionalities. One featured design is the Remisen-Pavilion in Germany by Wirth Architekten, a brick garden office that serves multiple purposes, including a parking space and dining room. Its design incorporates large oak wood doors and perforated brickwork for natural ventilation and lighting. In Scotland, WT Architecture designed a Writer's Studio for two writers, featuring a low brick base combined with an exposed timber and steel structure. This studio is intended to be visually simple, reminiscent of a dilapidated greenhouse that previously occupied the site. The LA Pottery Studio in the USA, a collaboration between ceramist Raina Lee and architect Mark Watanabe, is a stilted shed nestled among trees and accessed by a wooden bridge. This structure functions as both a studio and a display space for Lee's ceramics, utilizing salvaged shipping crates for shelving and incorporating natural elements like tree branches. Carmody Groarke's Two Pavilions in England include an artist studio built within the brick walls of an 18th-century ruined farmhouse, extended with weathered-steel panels that define large windows and create a sheltered outdoor area. FT Architects designed the Light Shed in Japan, an open-plan photography studio with a timber framework supporting corrugated plastic walls. The roof's unique shape maximizes open space and minimizes structural interference for photography. Studio Ben Allen's A Room in the Garden in England draws inspiration from an artichoke, featuring green shingles and constructed from a flat-pack kit of CNC-cut timber elements, allowing for easy dismantling and relocation. The Enchanted Shed in Austria by Franz&Sue; is a converted 1930s outhouse near Vienna, now serving as a light-filled writing studio on its upper level, complete with a glazed gable end and upholstered seating, capable of functioning as a guestroom or playspace. In England, TDO designed the Forest Pond House, a studio suspended over a body of water in a family garden. Its curved plywood shell and glazed end wall aim to immerse occupants in nature, promoting relaxation and focus. A31 Architecture's Art Warehouse in Greece, enclosed by a curved concrete shell, is an art studio designed for an artist to accommodate large sculptures, featuring a spacious open-plan interior and a mezzanine storage level accessible via floating steps. Lastly, Tini by Delavegacanolasso in Spain is a prototype of a prefabricated wooden office, designed for online ordering and truck delivery, constructed from galvanized steel, oriented strand boards (OSB), and local pine wood, and was craned into its garden site to prevent disruption. #GardenStudios #HomeWorkspaces #ArchitecturalDesign #SustainableArchitecture #PrefabricatedBuildings #ArtStudio #WriterStudio #PhotographyStudio #CompactLiving

This article details the transformation of a 1,700-square-foot loft in a century-old industrial building in Brooklyn, New York. Designed by Hormuz Batliboi of Batliboi Studio for Valerie Tsvetkova, the two-bedroom, two-bath residence blends historic industrial elements with a modern, playful aesthetic. The design process began by embracing the loft’s original character as a former manufacturing site. Hidden timber beams and steel joints, discovered during renovation behind a dropped ceiling, were intentionally exposed and integrated into the design, serving as visual anchors and contributing to the space’s authentic industrial feel. Initially, the loft presented challenges typical of converted spaces, including disjointed utilities and an inefficient kitchen layout. Batliboi addressed these issues by centralizing the utility infrastructure and strategically raising the floor in certain areas. This thoughtful alteration enabled a seamless integration of the kitchen into the heart of the home, optimizing both functionality and flow within the space. The renovation showcases an innovative approach to spatial planning, turning initial limitations into design opportunities. A prominent feature in the main living area, particularly the dining room, is a 15-foot sculptural shelf. This piece, characterized by its green, wave-like ripples, is constructed from layers of CNC-milled wood and precisely color-matched to the client’s existing pendant lights. It functions as both a practical sideboard and an artistic focal point, demonstrating the designer’s ability to merge utility with aesthetic appeal. This bespoke element adds a unique and dynamic visual texture to the loft, embodying its playful aesthetic. In the kitchen, the design combines sleek stainless steel countertops with brass accents and natural stone, creating a sophisticated yet warm ambiance. Rather than fully custom cabinetry, Batliboi utilized a flat-pack system from REFORM, carefully customizing it to achieve a high-end, built-in appearance. This cost-effective approach allowed for a luxurious aesthetic without excessive custom work, reflecting a sustainable design mindset. The integration of diverse materials and strategic use of pre-fabricated components contribute to the loft's refined industrial charm. The bathrooms feature contrasting material palettes to enhance the home’s eclectic character. One bathroom presents a moody design with deep black zellige tiles, matte black flooring, and a bold granite shower, amplified by natural light from an industrial window. Other areas incorporate a mix of penny tile and marble, providing a tactile and visual contrast. These carefully selected materials and custom fabrications, combined with clever spatial solutions, ensure that the home feels personalized, thoughtfully designed, and genuinely lived-in, successfully merging industrial edge with a playful modern aesthetic. #BrooklynLoft #IndustrialDesign #ModernAesthetic #InteriorDesign #BatliboiStudio #ResidentialArchitecture #CustomFabrication #SpatialPlanning

STUDIO K's design for BIÂN, Chicago's premier 25,000-square-foot health and social club, continues to exemplify a holistic and collaborative approach three years after its inception. Located in a bi-level commercial building, BIÂN integrates fitness, recovery, nutrition, alternative therapies, socialization, and spa services, offering a comprehensive "biosphere for living." The design prioritizes supporting the provided services rather than merely serving as a backdrop for social media content, distinguishing it from facilities that focus on fleeting trends. The interiors of BIÂN eschew popular, temporary design trends in favor of a timeless aesthetic that complements the club's offerings. Karen Herold, designer and principal of STUDIO K, emphasizes the extensive use of natural materials such as wood, leather, textiles, and lime plaster, layered to create a sense of warmth and welcome. The design team addressed the challenges posed by the industrial architecture by incorporating highly textural, soft, and light materials, accented with elements of black wood and steel. A talented lighting designer contributed to washing the entire space in a soft glow, enhancing the overall ambiance. This fusion of maximalist textures with minimalist interventions results in what is described as "industrial zen," where historical elements are subtly articulated to create a visually rich yet calming environment. Upon entering BIÂN, guests are greeted by a round apothecary table, setting the tone for the journey through various programs. The design employs a neutral palette of creams, whites, and taupes, with subtle shifts and accents of inky blue furnishings and living greenery, guiding members seamlessly from one area to another. The use of different textiles, such as linen and wool, manipulates light and transparency, while variations in slatted surface treatments and wood grain patterns manage the acoustic vibrations within the rooms. Each distinct ecosystem within BIÂN is designed to cater to the specific moment while facilitating an artful transition to the next, creating a cohesive and enriching experience for members. Notable features include a 6-foot round table at the entrance, combining a white oak reception desk with a full-sized concrete sink for skincare sales. The social lounge utilizes white oak and beechwood to foster a warm and calming atmosphere, featuring a 14-foot custom communal table and a main bar finished in leather. A staircase with wood louver screens connects the social lounge to the gym and spa facilities, discreetly concealing the medical facility behind. The lower level hosts a sushi counter adjacent to the gym, characterized by blue vinyl upholstery and plaster raked columns. A sound-insulated listening room, available for rent, provides members with a private space featuring a specialty entertainment system and a rotating selection of vinyl records. Locker rooms offer amenities like a steam room, cold plunge, and customized shower experiences, while a relaxation lounge on the lower level provides custom-designed chaise lounges for patrons awaiting or recovering from treatments. Patient rooms within the medical office suite maintain a serene, spa-like interior while adhering to standard facility regulations. The club also boasts multiple reformer studios for Pilates and custom gym cubbies and seating outside the main fitness studio. An expanded 10,000-square-foot co-working space, extending from the main social lounge, offers members areas for work and relaxation. This new area includes a rust-colored leather-wrapped bar inspired by sushi counters, serving food and beverages. The successful design elements, including architectural finishes, furniture, decorative lighting, and curated artwork, are consistently echoed throughout these new spaces. Mar Soraparu, Co-Founder & Chief Wellness Officer of BIÂN, highlights that the design's integration of philosophies, unique features, and thoughtful lighting choices create a luxurious and comfortable environment that enables members to pursue a more vital life. #IndustrialZenDesign #WellnessCenter #InteriorDesign #HealthClub #NaturalMaterials #BiLevelCommercialSpace #StudioK #ChicagoDesign #HolisticDesign

Speaker design studio Silence Please has established its first showroom and listening space in a New York City loft, located in Manhattan's Bowery neighborhood. The extensive loft space is designed to function as a multi-purpose environment, featuring a showroom and seating area at the front, with a record shop named Duty Free Records and a tea room situated towards the back. Silence Please specializes in designing and producing high-fidelity, analogue speakers, which are characterized by their array of materials and distinct horns. The studio took the lead in the interior design of this new space, aiming to create an inviting, home-like atmosphere while simultaneously offering an elevated experience for visitors. The design philosophy was to foster a deeper connection to sound and create a unified space for listening and discovery, balancing an approachable, domestic feel with a dreamy, liminal quality. Upon entering the second-floor walk-up, visitors find a large open space with white-painted walls and an exposed ceiling. The front of the space features tripod speakers, along with tables and chairs designed in collaboration with Brooklyn studio Graine Studio, overlooking Bowery Street. Two dark-washed dining tables by Graine Studio are centrally placed on a black rug that extends towards the dedicated listening area. This intimate section is furnished with black leather Togo sofas, a small wooden dining table, a potted tree, and brushed aluminium speakers fitted with bright white horns. Silence Please aimed to present its speakers in a way that evokes the comfort of a large living room. The studio expressed a desire to merge a gallery aesthetic, recognizing the speakers as art, with the soft and intimate ambiance suitable for personal listening. This juxtaposition of gallery and intimate living space is considered a unique aspect of the design. A white dividing wall partitions the listening area, enclosing one side of the Duty Free Records vinyl shop, which is centrally positioned within the floor plan. Two passageways lead into the record shop, which is outfitted with thin display shelves, crates of records, and seating options. Beyond the record shop, the rear of the Silence Please space houses a tea room, furnished with smaller, boxy, geometric furniture pieces also from Graine Studio. A countertop is located to one side, while operational areas are discreetly concealed behind a white curtain, and a workbench is tucked into the furthest corner. The space is further enriched by artwork from various artists, including French abstractionist Frédéric Heurlier Cimolai. The main listening room serves as a platform for artists and the broader New York community, with the overarching goal of balancing sophistication with warmth to encourage engagement and connection among visitors. This initiative follows Silence Please's recent participation in the first New York iteration of the Collectible design fair, and the establishment of the space reflects a growing trend in dedicated listening environments. #InteriorDesign #Showroom #ListeningSpace #NewYorkCity #SpeakerDesign #RetailDesign #TeaRoom #RecordStore #LoftConversion

Studio Job, known for its distinctive bold style, has undertaken a comprehensive redesign of the Luxembourg offices of asset management firm Creutz & Partners. This project, titled ‘Always Close’, represents a departure from their usual product, installation, and interior designs, marking their first foray into designing a bank. The installation encompasses four floors of the firm’s 19th-century building, situated in the heart of Luxembourg’s old town. The designers have not only created a functional workspace but have also conceived it as a holistic conceptual artwork, integrating more than 100 new original design pieces and artworks throughout the building. The scope of the project includes various spaces such as an office, a conference room, a shop, and a client meeting area. Each room has been meticulously designed by Studio Job, with every detail from floor to ceiling reflecting their signature aesthetic. This immersive design approach provides a broad overview of their artistic vision while simultaneously offering an irreverent commentary on the influence of money. This thematic exploration is evident in elements like curtains patterned with dollar signs and a carpet shaped like a coin, directly linking the design to the financial core of the client's business. Job Smeets, one half of Studio Job, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, noting that Creutz & Partners allowed for significant creative freedom, enabling the designers to push boundaries without creative restrictions. He stated that every visual element within the installation is intrinsically connected to the concept of money, which is the fundamental aspect of the firm’s operations. The exterior of the building also showcases Studio Job’s creative energy, featuring a unique composition of elements such as heraldic flags, lightboxes, planters, neon lights, and a handcrafted golden 'Creutz & Partners' sign, transforming the façade into an artistic statement. The ground floor houses a lobby designed to resemble a shop. This space is not accessible to the public but functions as an art installation. The title ‘Always Close’ carries a dual meaning in this context: it refers to the intimate nature of this private art installation and also symbolically alludes to the business concept of 'closing a deal' in the financial sector. Smeets described this project as a unique opportunity to create a functional interior that seamlessly blends art, design, object, and function. He further elaborated that every piece within the installation is custom-made and unique, collectively forming a 'portrait' that reflects both Studio Job’s artistic identity and the client’s corporate essence. The article includes several illustrations that showcase the vibrant and eclectic interiors of the ‘Always Close’ installation. These images highlight the diverse design elements, such as a burger-shaped chair, a rock-shaped coffee table, a bar counter adorned with flame prints, a teddy bear on a side table, and a swirling black and white floor in one room. Other visuals depict a hot dog-shaped sofa, patterned chairs, a glass coffee table, a street lamp-shaped floor lamp, a lounge area with a leopard print sofa, a blue chair, an oval glass coffee table, a tree-shaped side table, a dartboard-patterned rug, and colorful patterned wallpaper. Additional images feature a dining area with a glass table, a white cupboard with a red heart, a money-print rug, a cigar-shaped hanging light, a wall with bull and lion head patterns, chair-shaped coat hangers, a tree trunk-shaped coffee table, skull-shaped chairs, a doorway with a nose decoration and multi-colored lights, a bathroom with lion and bull heads on a blue wall, a toilet with a gold seat and cleaner, and doors with diagonal yellow and black lines or red and white arrows. These images collectively underscore the bold, imaginative, and thematically rich design approach of Studio Job in this project. #StudioJob #DesignInstallation #Luxembourg #CreutzAndPartners #AssetManagement #ConceptualArt #InteriorDesign #FinancialTheme #ArtAndFunction

The article discusses the architectural installation "Spirit of the City" by London-based United Visual Artists (UVA) at A/D/O in New York, presented during New York Design Week. This installation is a collaboration with Mini, hosted in their innovative creative space, A/D/O. The primary goal of the installation is to offer a reflective experience within the dynamic urban environment, metaphorically and physically mirroring its surroundings and New York City at large. The installation consists of 9-foot-high modular columns that revolve, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The rotation patterns are not arbitrary; they are based on extensive research into human activity within the city. This research allowed UVA to develop a 24-hour algorithm that dictates the movement of the columns, transitioning from tranquil rhythms to more urgent, dynamic movements. As visitors navigate the space around these colossal totems, they can observe subtle shadows cast onto the ground, forming intricate, poetic patterns that respond to the kinetic energy of the columns. The surface of the columns themselves presents varying perspectives, shifting from serene sky blues to the grittier, industrial aesthetics of A/D/O's creative hub. This visual transformation further emphasizes the interplay between the installation and its urban backdrop. UVA, founded in 2003, is known for its art practice that integrates technology to create experiences that often extend beyond conventional physical boundaries. Their previous works have been showcased globally in prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and YCAM in Japan. Matt Clark, founder of UVA, poses a fundamental question through "Spirit of the City": do human activities shape urban landscapes, or do urban landscapes, in turn, define human activities? This philosophical inquiry underpins the interactive and reflective nature of the installation. A/D/O itself, located in a converted warehouse in Brooklyn, opened the previous year, featuring a diverse array of design-focused retail, bars, and restaurants, aligning with Mini's broader design agenda. Mini's head of brand strategy and business innovation, Esther Bahne, states that Mini believes in design's capacity to foster a more humane world. A/D/O initially launched with Design Academy, a three-day festival for professional designers to explore cultural themes. "Spirit of the City" marks the space's first major showcase for NYCxDesign since its opening and was on display until 2 September. The installation, through its thoughtful design and interactive elements, invites contemplation on the symbiotic relationship between people and their urban surroundings. #NewYorkDesignWeek #ArchitecturalInstallation #UnitedVisualArtists #UrbanEnvironment #AdoSpace #MiniCollaboration #KineticArt #PublicArt

The eyewear brand KREWE transformed a former food storage warehouse in New Orleans' Lower Garden District into its new global headquarters. This project, spearheaded by KREWE's in-house designers and Olivia Erwin Interiors, aimed to create an adaptable, light-filled space centered around the sun, reflecting the brand's identity. The headquarters features an open floor plan that extends into a courtyard with a pool, serving as both a testing ground for new shade designs and a social club. The SUN_DAYS courtyard was designed in collaboration with hospitality group LeBlanc + Smith, intending to foster a community space for creative individuals in New Orleans. It offers amenities like a heated or chilled pool, wellness classes, and a sauna, and is utilized as a vital part of the company headquarters when not open to the public. The design emphasizes a minimalist aesthetic, built for function rather than preciousness, incorporating workstations from Poppin and Hem, alongside vintage finds. The kitchen areas feature concrete floors, marble counters, and Farrow & Ball's 'Breakfast Room Green' cabinets, with a nostalgic neon sign paying homage to a former Canal Street landmark. Beyond the headquarters, the article also explores KREWE's 1818 Magazine Street store and the gallery apartment above it, located in a historic early 1800s building. The store's interiors, a collaboration with Goodwood New Orleans and Nicole Cota, showcase a green terrazzo bar, custom-framed mirrors, and cypress cabinetry. The gallery apartment, designed by KREWE and Olivia Erwin Interiors, serves as a versatile space for hosting brand friends, dinner parties, or offsite retreats. This apartment signifies KREWE's evolution into a lifestyle brand, emphasizing physical spaces over an increasing number of products. Its entrance and stairway feature Farrow & Ball's 'Setting Plaster' and 'Cuban Heritage' tile, with a Signal Globe pendant from Workstead. The living room includes a vintage Milo Baughman sectional upholstered in pink, a custom coffee table, and a walnut dining table by Studioilse. The kitchen backsplash is pink marble, complemented by dark green fluted cabinets from Goodwood and a custom brass island. The apartment also features mid-century modern furniture, step-through windows leading to wraparound gallery balconies for natural light and indoor-outdoor flow, and outdoor furniture from HAY. A library features a custom sofa with paprika velvet cushions and automotive paint, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Dakota Shadow' and an Atollo Table Lamp. The bedroom includes a Nordic II Bed from Unison Home, an Ethnicraft 'Spindle' bedside table, a West Elm rug, and walls in Benjamin Moore's 'Winter Orchard'. The adjoining bath is painted in Farrow & Ball’s 'Green Smoke'. #WorkplaceDesign #OfficeInteriors #WarehouseConversion #NewOrleansDesign #EyewearBrand #CommercialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LifestyleBrand #CommunitySpace