EWE studio opens its first showroom in a transformed dance hall in mexico city

Grupo Arca, a prominent supplier of premium building materials in Mexico, including wood flooring, masonry bricks, engineered stone, and exotic natural stone, has expanded its vision beyond traditional commercial showrooms. The company aims to be a hub for creative connections, promoting design, culture, and art through extraordinary experiences. This ambition is reflected in its online design journal, _Container_, and a new generation of design centers, which are conceived more as museums celebrating materiality than mere product displays. These centers are designed to be flexible venues for temporary exhibitions, film screenings, and musical performances. The first such innovative showroom recently opened in Guadalajara, designed by the collaborative and ambitious Esrawe Studio. Héctor Esrawe of Esrawe Studio emphasizes the importance of incorporating a cultural component into their projects, stating that the Guadalajara showroom adds social value and is integral to the Grupo Arca brand. The 70,000-square-foot facility, meticulously planned by Esrawe’s team under architecture coordinator Laura Vela, is divided into two distinct zones. One zone is a soaring, skylit warehouse for Grupo Arca’s vast inventory of stone slabs and other materials. The other, a three-level showroom wing, features product galleries, offices, and a bookstore-café. This public-facing section is structured around a wedge-shaped open-air _agora_ or courtyard, drawing inspiration from the very nature of the stone it showcases. The entry facade of the showroom, characterized by blocky planes of blackened concrete, appears excavated to reveal stratified layers of lighter Italian travertine. Upon entering through a subtle opening, visitors are led into the monumental _agora_. The courtyard’s floor and walls are entirely clad in the same travertine used on the facade, extending three stories high. Its strong horizontal veining evokes the strata of an archaeological excavation or a stone quarry, a deliberate metaphor by Esrawe to highlight the origin of materials. This design choice aims to connect users with the raw materials, rather than just the finished products. Similar to traditional Mexican houses, the _agora_ and two smaller light wells introduce natural daylight into the otherwise windowless structure. Recessed doorways and cantilevered walkways encircle the trapezoidal courtyard, enhancing the horizontal aesthetic. Laura Vela explains that the circulation through this 'petrified mass' is designed to create an experience of expanding and contracting spaces. Pockets of planted trees and shrubs are strategically placed, reminiscent of nature reclaiming abandoned quarries, drawing parallels to Edward Burtynsky’s photographs. A grand flight of travertine steps, accented with rustic teak, serves as a backdrop for performances and exhibitions, currently featuring abstract wooden sculptures by contemporary Mexican artist Jorge Yázpik. Inside the showroom, the Esrawe team presents material displays as art installations rather than mere samples. The interiors are neutral, with gallery lighting designed to emphasize the dramatic qualities of the materials. The design employs a pure, clean geometry of lines and planes, with steel frames adding depth. The lobby, with its black basalt flooring and blackened micro-cement walls and ceilings, reinforces the concept of the building being carved from a solid masonry mass. Even the reception desk is a rough-hewn chunk of Turkish marble. The lobby offers a view into the massive, skylit warehouse, establishing a clear yet easily accessible separation between the showroom and storage areas. On the top floor, the bookstore-café functions as a versatile space, opening onto a landscaped terrace. It serves as a relaxed area for browsing architecture books and magazines, as well as a reference library for designers collaborating with sales representatives. Framed architectural photographs enhance the gallery ambiance, aligning with Grupo Arca’s vision of the showroom as a cultural hub rather than solely a commercial space. Esrawe Studio designed much of the furniture, including bar stools, benches, and bookshelves made from honey-hued maple-plywood, harmonizing with the ceiling. Grupo Arca’s in-house craftsmen contributed bespoke pieces, such as the reception desk and a colossal French marble sink in the restroom. This innovative showroom has successfully fostered a new sense of community among Guadalajara’s design professionals and supports Grupo Arca’s international expansion plans, with additional outposts anticipated in Miami and Madrid. #EsraweStudio #GrupoArca #GuadalajaraShowroom #ExperientialDesign #ArchitecturalMaterials #InteriorDesign #CulturalHub #StoneShowroom #MexicanDesign

Tabarka Studio, a company known for its unique tiles and custom flooring, has opened a new showroom in Los Angeles, marking a significant expansion for the brand. The showroom highlights Tabarka Studio's signature handprinted terracotta tiles, which have been a cornerstone of its identity, alongside new and innovative flooring options. The company's Zenati & Edri Parquet collection is a key feature, offering extensive customization possibilities for discerning clients. This collection represents a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, allowing for nearly limitless patterns and configurations to suit diverse aesthetic preferences. In addition to showcasing its established lines, the new Los Angeles showroom introduces Tabarka Studio's latest offering: a new terrazzo flooring collection. This collection is presented as an homage to the distinctive style and spirit of Southern California, incorporating design elements and material choices that reflect the region's unique architectural and artistic landscape. A detailed view of this new terrazzo flooring reveals intricate patterns and the inclusion of brass inlay, demonstrating a commitment to high-quality materials and sophisticated design. The creative vision behind Tabarka Studio's offerings is spearheaded by its creative director, Meir Zenati. Zenati plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand's aesthetic and guiding the development of new collections, ensuring that Tabarka Studio remains at the forefront of luxury tile and flooring design. The opening of the Los Angeles showroom not only serves as a retail space but also as a gallery where clients and designers can experience the tactile qualities and visual impact of the materials firsthand. The showroom's design itself reflects Tabarka Studio's artistic approach, with the entry featuring a vibrant display of 'pattern on pattern,' creating an immersive and inspiring environment. This design choice underscores the company's philosophy of embracing bold aesthetics and intricate details in its products. The expansion into Los Angeles signifies Tabarka Studio's strategic move to strengthen its presence in a key market for high-end home design and interior decoration, catering to a clientele that values bespoke and handcrafted elements in their living spaces. The article also briefly mentions other luxury home design topics, such as a contemporary Pebble Beach home inspired by butterflies, a modern Swiss chalet with old-world architecture cues, a dining pavilion with a bespoke kitchen, and a postmodern Seattle house transformed into a modern cabin. These additional mentions contextualize Tabarka Studio's offerings within the broader landscape of luxury home design, emphasizing the demand for unique, high-quality, and architecturally significant elements in upscale residences. #TabarkaStudio #LosAngelesShowroom #LuxuryTiles #CustomFlooring #HandprintedTerracotta #TerrazzoCollection #HomeDesign #InteriorDecoration #MeirZenati

Ann Buehler, who began dancing at 2½ years old due to a medical recommendation for leg braces, developed a lifelong passion for dance, eventually teaching beginner classes at 16. She pursued various dance forms during her time at Southwest Missouri State University and, after graduating, balanced a career as a second-grade teacher with teaching dance on the side. Initially, she taught as 'Ann’s Dancers' in a church basement in Mt. Vernon, progressively expanding and operating studios in both Mt. Vernon and Springfield. Buehler transitioned to full-time dance instruction, founding Ann’s Performing Arts Centre in 1992. After years in a studio that no longer met her needs, an opportunity arose when Paula Daugherty, whose children were Buehler’s students, and her husband, developers of the new Paige Reese Plaza in south Springfield, invited Ann’s to establish a new location. Buehler collaborated with Daugherty and architect Brian Kubik of Buxton Kubik Dodd Creative to design an optimal space based on her extensive experience. Kubik translated Buehler's requirements into architectural plans, while Daugherty oversaw the interior design. The resulting studio features an open and airy layout, incorporating modern furnishings with accents of red and crystal chandeliers. Key areas include an open lobby, a locker room, a tumbling room, two main dance studios, an office, and an upstairs area for staff with a study nook for students. The lobby serves as a communal space for families, equipped with a kitchenette for snacks. The locker room, furnished with 100 lockers, is a popular gathering spot for students. The tumbling room is designed for younger dancers, equipped with mirrors, mats, and safety gear, with all tumbling activities tailored to support dance training. The second level provides a comfortable retreat for employees, featuring a seating area and kitchenette, and offers views into Studio A and the lobby. The two main dance studios are versatile, separated by a garage door that allows them to be combined into one large space for special events. Both studios are outfitted with Marley Sprung floors, mirrors, ballet bars, and stall bars. The studio also accommodates 'The Company,' a group of select dancers who participate in competitive dance, with their photos displayed in the lobby. The new center is celebrated by Buehler for its chic, sleek, and fun aesthetic. #DanceStudio #PerformingArts #InteriorDesign #Architecture #SpringfieldMissouri #DanceEducation #CommercialDesign

This blog post highlights a unique studio apartment located at 400 West 12th Street in the Superior Ink condo building, West Village, New York City, currently listed for $2.3 million. The 943-square-foot residence, described as a “zen suite,” features an interior meticulously designed with a focus on luxury, custom elements, and smart home technology. The apartment's aesthetic is characterized by a blend of natural materials and contemporary finishes, creating a tranquil and sophisticated living space. The entrance to the home features a narrow hallway adorned with leather walls, artistic displays, and subtle light coves. This hallway provides access to essential amenities including a full bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a washer/dryer closet. A smaller closet ingeniously houses a Savant smart home system, allowing for integrated control of the apartment's various functions. The bathroom itself is a showcase of modern design, featuring heated travertine floors, a limed oak vanity topped with white Quartzite, a spacious walk-in shower with a teak floor, and a separate water closet, emphasizing both comfort and style. The kitchen area is equipped with white Quartzite counters, a distinctive blue-vein Cipolino marble backsplash, a Sub-zero refrigerator, and stainless-steel Viking appliances, indicating a high-end culinary setup. Adjacent to the kitchen is a bedroom alcove, which has been reconfigured into a custom dressing room surrounded by built-in closets, catering specifically to individuals with a significant wardrobe. Both the kitchen and the dressing room can be privately enclosed using hand-carved sliding doors imported from Bali, adding an exotic touch to the interior. The main living space is accessed via a hallway lined with architectural mirrors. The bed area is distinguished by a white leather headboard and a coordinating footboard that cleverly conceals a custom television lift. The room offers ample space for a separate sitting area and features Shagreen counters, grasscloth walls, and large south-facing windows that fill the space with natural light. The apartment boasts 10-foot ceilings throughout, Morado wood floors, custom light fixtures, a built-in audio system, and electronic drapes, sheers, and shades, enhancing the luxurious feel. The Superior Ink condo, built in 2010 and designed by Robert A.M. Stern, is LEED-certified, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability. Its prime location offers residents convenient access to Hudson River Park, the High Line, the Whitney Museum, and other cultural attractions within the West Village. The building also provides a range of amenities, including a residents’ lounge, a screening room, a fitness center with a pilates/yoga room, a playroom, and 24-hour concierge and doorman services, ensuring a comprehensive luxury living experience. #WestVillage #StudioApartment #LuxuryRealEstate #SuperiorInkCondo #InteriorDesign #SmartHome #Fashionista #NewYorkCity #RobertAMStern

Matches Fashion, a prominent online luxury retailer, has expanded its offerings with the launch of its Homewares Studio. This new venture aims to provide a curated selection of designer homewares, mirroring the high-end fashion experience the platform is known for. The initiative comes in response to a growing consumer demand for elevated home aesthetics, driven in part by social media and the desire to create interiors as fashionable as personal wardrobes. The Homewares Studio features a diverse range of products, including throws, cushions, tabletop items, and decorative pieces. It brings together established luxury brands and emerging designers, creating a comprehensive collection for interior design enthusiasts. Among the notable established brands included are Gucci, known for its distinct homewares that inspire complete remodelling fantasies; Maison Margiela; Loewe; and the homewares stalwart Missoni, recognized for its vibrant patterns and textiles. The platform also champions new and exciting talents in the design world. For instance, British designer Luke Edward Hall's ceramic pieces, which serve as canvases for his hand-painted illustrations of classical sculptures, flora, fauna, and bold slogans like “VICTIM OF LOVE,” are featured. Other emerging brands highlighted include Once Milano, offering sophisticated crushed-linen table linens in muted tones; Cire Trudon, specializing in haute parfumerie through its exquisite candles; and Raawii, a Copenhagen-based brand celebrated for its modernist crockery and rich color palettes. Matches Fashion’s approach to its homewares offering mirrors its successful strategy in ready-to-wear fashion: introducing shoppers to exclusive and innovative talents. An example is Kilometre Paris, which presents a collection of embroidered tea towels, cushions, and aprons designed to evoke postcards from exotic destinations, with each piece intricately crafted by region-specific female artisans. The studio also addresses specific trends, such as the popularity of Pendleton blankets, famously featured in Raf Simons’ Calvin Klein 205W39NYC collection for Spring 2018, which are now available for purchase. In addition to these designers, the article highlights a variety of specific items available, such as the Raawii Strom small ceramic jug, Once Milano rectangular crushed-linen tablecloth, L’Objet large Teo vase, Cire Trudon Marie-Antoinette Bust decorative candle, Calvin Klein 205W39NYC x Pendleton wool-cotton saddle blanket, Luke Edward Hall fish-painted ceramic serving platter, La Double J Editions set of two Housewives glasses, Cinnamon Projects Circa Mineral dalmation stone incense burner, Pendleton Fire Legend wool and cotton-blend blanket, Kilometre Paris palm-tree embroidered cotton apron, Maison Margiela embroidered clock, Saved NY cloud-jacquard cashmere blanket, Gucci Herbarium Verde porcelain salad bowl, Anya Hindmarch Anya Smells Washing Powder small scented candle, Missoni Home Ridley zigzag-knit cotton throw, and Perfumer H Ash scented candle. Each item is presented with its price and a direct link to Matches Fashion for purchase. The launch of the Homewares Studio reflects a broader trend of integrating fashion and lifestyle, allowing consumers to extend their personal style into their living spaces. By offering a meticulously chosen range of high-quality, designer home goods, Matches Fashion positions itself as a destination for creating aspirational interiors, reinforcing the idea that home décor is as crucial to personal expression as clothing. The platform encourages consumers to embrace the concept of "dressing for the home you want," turning their living spaces into curated reflections of their desired lifestyles. #MatchesFashion #HomewaresStudio #DesignerHomewares #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLifestyle #HomeDecoration #FashionRetail #EmergingDesigners #HighEndDecor

Peter Dunham, an ELLE DECOR A-List interior designer renowned for his 'Englishman-meets-L.A. style,' is expanding his presence with a new 3,500-square-foot showroom in New York City. The showroom, located at the New York Design Center's 200 Lexington Avenue, is set to open on August 19. Dunham, who has been operating from Los Angeles since 2003, expressed his long-held desire to establish a New York presence, stating, 'For me, it’s always New York...and honestly, I wish I’d done it sooner.' The new space will showcase a diverse range of products from both Dunham’s Hollywood at Home and Peter Dunham Textiles brands. Visitors to the showroom will experience an environment designed to emulate Dunham's distinct interior projects, characterized by opulence, playfulness, vintage influences, and a strong affinity for bold colors and patterns. The showroom aims to offer a tangible experience, allowing clients to 'touch and feel and try and test the quality and comfort' of his offerings, emphasizing the designer's belief in the importance of physical interaction with products despite the shift in retail landscapes. The showroom's layout is meticulously curated to reflect Dunham's design philosophy, presenting a comprehensive display of his work. A central feature will be an array of his signature prints and woven fabrics, including the widely recognized 'Fig Leaf' print, which adorns the walls. This is complemented by outdoor furniture selections, such as a textured beige Hollywood at Home Rush Club armchair, upholstered in Nawab fabric. The space also includes a dark green cabinet filled with indoor-outdoor poufs, a varied collection of patterned cushions, and a wall dedicated to fabric swatches, inviting tactile exploration. His latest 'Shani' textile launch, drawing inspiration from Indian block prints, will also be featured. Beyond textiles and seating, the showroom will display lamps, a four-poster bed draped in a 100 percent alpaca bedcover crafted by Peruvian handweavers, and cowhide chairs. Notable pieces include the 'Carmania' woven fabric, previously used in Dunham’s Paris apartment. The showroom is designed to be a condensed yet comprehensive representation of Dunham’s extensive career and dedication to fabric artistry. Dunham describes the showroom as a layered environment, mirroring his approach to designing a room—a fusion of art, accessories, vintage items, his original designs, and collaborations with artisans. For those unable to visit in person, the article provides a glimpse into some of the featured items, offering a preview of the diverse collection available at the new New York location. #PeterDunham #NYCShowroom #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Textiles #HollywoodAtHome #NewYorkDesignCenter #DesignTrends #FabricDesign

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

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

The Sonoma-based interior design firm Hommeboys, led by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, has opened a new studio and launched three new capsule collections for their furniture line, Haus of Hommeboys. The firm is known for its thoughtful design approach and hands-on craftsmanship, blending classic Wine Country aesthetics with a modern, refreshing twist. Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier, who have been married since 2019, have previously garnered acclaim for their designs in projects such as Healdsburg’s Marine Layer tasting room and Sonoma’s Valley Bar + Bottle restaurant. The new studio, which also houses a woodshop and cabinetry studio, is situated just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma. This expansion represents a significant step for the Hommeboys, fulfilling a long-held ambition to establish their own showroom. Mutter-Rottmayer expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the venture, acknowledging the risk involved in showcasing their unique design vision to a wider audience, but emphasizing their consistent desire for a dedicated space. The Hommeboys’ design philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on mixing materials and incorporating organic and natural elements. They experiment with various shapes in plaster, stone, and wood, aiming for a look that is both earthy and deeply connected to the Californian landscape. This approach is reflected in their furniture line, which features organic and natural materials. One of their new capsule collections for Haus of Hommeboys draws inspiration from rustic themes. This collection includes dark, ebony-stained, hand-notched cedar furniture, designed to evoke a raw, rustic, and edgy feel. The shapes within this collection are described as anthropomorphized, influenced by the golden hills of California. The design process at Hommeboys is driven by creativity and a desire to have fun. Alex Mutter-Rottmayer highlighted an instance where green velvet from a photo shoot was spontaneously used to cover a bedroom’s walls, illustrating their adaptive and playful approach to design. This method emphasizes utilizing available resources and embracing unexpected inspirations to shape their distinctive interiors. #InteriorDesign #Sonoma #DesignStudio #FurnitureDesign #HausOfHommeboys #WineCountryDesign #OrganicDesign #Craftsmanship

Saltwolf, an e-commerce furniture company based in Boulder, launched its mobile showroom in June 2021, one year after its initial founding. The company, established by husband-and-wife team Lindy and Jordan Williams in May 2020, aimed to address common challenges faced by interior designers, such as the difficulty of sampling and ordering high-quality furnishings with quick turnaround times. Saltwolf distinguishes itself by offering direct-to-designer services, providing heirloom-quality pieces through an online platform. The decision to create a mobile showroom, affectionately known as "Ms. Saltwolf," stemmed from the founders' desire to provide designers with a tactile experience of their products, without committing to a traditional brick-and-mortar presence. Lindy Williams noted that while many trade brands rely on third-party showrooms, Saltwolf wanted to explore alternative methods to showcase their furniture. The 18-foot-long box truck, designed with a theater background by Jordan Williams, functions as a fully immersive living room environment. This setup allows designers to visualize how Saltwolf's furniture would integrate into their projects. The mobile showroom was particularly timely given the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It enabled Saltwolf to safely introduce its products to design firms through masked, outdoor meetings, adhering to health and comfort guidelines. The interior of Ms. Saltwolf is meticulously designed, featuring painted wainscoting and patterned wallpaper, creating an inviting atmosphere. It showcases upholstered furniture from each of Saltwolf’s four lines: a 7-foot Linden sofa in Belgian linen, a Hawthorne chair in Italian leather, a Mapleton chair in performance velvet, and a Norwood bench in Belgian linen. Additionally, the showroom features examples of the brand’s three wood finishes and large fabric swatches. These larger swatches allow designers to gauge the material and color at scale, offering a more comprehensive understanding than small samples. After initial test drives in various Western cities like Boulder, Denver, Aspen, Salt Lake City, Park City, and Austin, the mobile showroom commenced its official tour in Southern California in June 2021. The tour itinerary included further stops in Portland, Seattle, Bozeman, Jackson, and Sun Valley. Team members, including Lindy and Jordan, travel to each destination to meet with individual designers and host events within the showroom. The summer tour was scheduled to conclude on the Front Range with an event at Roth Living in Denver on August 26. Future plans for the fall involved visits to Colorado mountain resort towns, Utah, and Lake Tahoe. While Ms. Saltwolf has played a crucial role in introducing the brand, the company plans to transition to a permanent display at its Boulder design studio by the end of the year. Remote tours via video conferencing will also be offered, and discussions are underway to place Saltwolf pieces in designers’ showrooms in various mountain resort towns. Lindy Williams observed a significant shift in consumer and designer purchasing behavior due to the pandemic, with an increased comfort level in buying luxury goods online. Saltwolf aims to continue innovating to make the online purchasing experience as effortless as possible for its clients. The article provides practical information for interested designers, stating that Saltwolf's upcoming mobile showroom stops are listed on their website, where designers can RSVP to events or request a visit. Updates on new stops are also available online, ensuring designers can stay informed about the showroom's schedule and plan their engagement accordingly. #mobileShowroom #furnitureDesign #directToDesigner #homeFurnishings #interiorDesign #BoulderBusiness #eCommerceFurniture #luxuryGoods #designInnovation

The Shed, located in New York, United States, is a non-profit cultural organization dedicated to commissioning, developing, and presenting original works of art across various disciplines for diverse audiences. Completed in 2019, the building, known as the Bloomberg Building, was designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Rockwell Group. The facility spans an area of 18,500 square meters and is notable for its physical adaptability, engineered to accommodate a wide range of artistic endeavors. The Bloomberg Building features an eight-level base structure. This base includes two dedicated levels for gallery space, providing ample room for art exhibitions. Additionally, it houses the versatile Griffin Theater, designed to host performances and events. The upper levels of the base are home to The Tisch Skylights, which encompass a rehearsal space, a creative lab for local artists, and a skylit event space, offering flexible areas for artistic development and public engagement. A key architectural feature of The Shed is its telescoping outer shell. This shell can be deployed from over the base building and glides along rails onto an adjoining plaza, creating an expansive outdoor performance area known as The McCourt. This innovative design allows the building to physically transform, effectively expanding its footprint and capacity to host large-scale performances, installations, and events, responding dynamically to the needs of different artistic presentations. The project involved a comprehensive team of consultants and specialists to bring its complex design to fruition. Diller Scofidio + Renfro served as the lead architects, with Rockwell Group collaborating on the architectural design. Key consultants included Thornton Tomasetti for structural design, facade engineering, and kinetic engineering services, highlighting the intricate movable structure. Jaros Baum & Bolles handled MEP and fire protection, while Vidaris provided energy modeling consultation. Lighting design was managed by Tillotson Design Associates, and acoustic consultation by Akustiks. Construction management was overseen by Sciame Construction. Vertical transport consultants Van Deusen & Associates contributed to the building's internal logistics. Specialized consultants for the kinetic systems included Hardesty & Hanover, and Fisher Dachs Associates served as theater consultants, ensuring the functionality of the performance spaces. Cimolai was the structural steel fabricator, and Vector Foiltec fabricated the ETFE (Ethylene TetrafluoroFluoroethylene) material used in the outer shell. Additional expertise was provided by Code Consultants Inc. for building codes, Ducibella Venter & Santore for security, Entek Engineering for facade maintenance, James R. Gainfort for waterproofing, and Construction Specifications Inc. for specifications. Graphic design and wayfinding were handled by Other Means. The project's photography was primarily captured by Timothy Schenck, documenting the building's exterior and interior spaces. #CulturalArchitecture #ExhibitionCenter #NewYork #DillerScofidioRenfro #RockwellGroup #KineticArchitecture #PublicArtSpace #ArchitecturalInnovation #BuildingTransformation

The newly opened 1.3.5_c store, located in Amsterdam's Canal District, offers a unique retail experience focused on olfactive treasures. Situated in a listed 1930s red brick building designed by architect Henk van Kempen, the ground floor has been transformed by Amsterdam-based interior design practice Carbon Studio. The building previously housed a tobacco firm's offices and later a boutique for renowned jewelry designer Hans Appenzeller. The store is divided into two distinct spaces. The first, dubbed 'The Lobby,' is a lofty, light-filled area dedicated to the ZENOLOGY collection, a brand co-founded by seasoned fragrance professional Jeroen Oude Sogtoen. This space pays homage to ZENOLOGY's roots in hospitality, featuring understated yet inviting interiors with lacquered oak surfaces, whitewashed walls, and terrazzo tiles. A prominent square cushioned bench with a circular backrest, flanked by recessed and stainless steel shelving units, anchors the space. The material palette and immersive ambiance of 'The Lobby' aim to balance nature and science, reflecting ZENOLOGY’s brand philosophy. Here, customers can explore ZENOLOGY's full range of home, skin, and hair care products, along with body skincare and home fragrances. Beyond ZENOLOGY products, 'The Lobby' also curates a selection of lifestyle offerings. These include exclusive teas from Mariage Frères, handcrafted suitcases by FPM, and various accessories. Additionally, the space features immersive travel stories from the iconic Holiday Magazine, appealing to a discerning demographic seeking more than traditional retail. The second space, 'Backstage,' is semi-concealed behind a draped velvet curtain and is dedicated to PANTOMIME fragrances, also co-founded by Jeroen Oude Sogtoen. This boudoir-inspired room is characterized by full pleated splendor, theatrically presented, and is overlaid on one side by a sizable minimalist display unit. A Brutalist oak display table firmly anchors the setting, its robust form balanced by more delicate objects such as glass and ceramic artworks. The use of similar terrazzo tile flooring in both 'The Lobby' and 'Backstage' subtly connects the two distinctly designed areas. 1.3.5_c aims to provide an elevated shopping experience through its design-led premises and tightly curated merchandise. The store plans to feature a rotating selection of artworks, vintage objects, design pieces, rare books, photography, and exclusive lifestyle products. This approach is intended to resonate with a savvy clientele, offering them not just products but also an enriching cultural and aesthetic experience. The store is located at Grimburgwal 1-3-5C in the Canal District of Amsterdam and is open from Wednesday to Saturday. #Amsterdam #StoreOpening #InteriorDesign #CarbonStudio #ZENOLOGY #PANTOMIME #Fragrance #RetailExperience #LifestyleProducts

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

Acne Studios, the Swedish fashion label, has opened a new flagship store in Tokyo's Aoyama district, a move that encapsulates the brand's playful yet minimalist aesthetic. The store, located on a prominent corner of Omotesando, an area known for its architectural significance, was designed by Acne Studios' founder and creative director, Jonny Johansson, in collaboration with Stockholm-based studio Halleroed. This new location replaces a previous store on a nearby backstreet and represents the culmination of Johansson's long-standing connection and inspiration drawn from Japan. The conceptual foundation for the store was inspired by the idea of a 'garage' – an open, technical space. Johansson envisioned an interior that maintained the skeleton of the original building, incorporating extensive use of glass to create a seamless flow between the inside and outside, allowing visitors to feel connected to Aoyama. This structural openness is complemented by a unique design element: softly-textured pink granite stone. This material is used to connect various spaces, extending across floors and walls, and forms two prominent, airy staircases with clean, minimalist lines and subtly indented handrails. The choice of pink for the granite was deliberate, aimed at avoiding a 'banal' or 'naïve' impression. According to Ruxandra Halleröd, co-founder of Halleroed, the team explored various textures and materials before settling on a granite that intensifies in pink hue when flamed. This approach was intended to create a mature and nuanced pink, moving beyond typical feminine connotations to become a 'pop color' that aligns with Acne Studios' slightly vague yet distinct brand identity. Contrasting the soft pink granite, the store integrates reflective metal accents, angled mirrors, and dynamic stainless steel clothing hangers that are sharply suspended from the ceiling. This blend of materials and forms adds to the store's contemporary and edgy atmosphere. Further enhancing the creative interior are bespoke elements from long-term Acne Studios collaborators. British designer Max Lamb contributed a series of pieces, including shiny soft leather seats that appear to merge with the walls, tufted carpets, and 'Blob' chairs made from hand-dyed yarns. Illumination is provided by dozens of custom strip-lighting fixtures, conceived by designer Benoit Lalloz, which are strategically placed across ceilings and integrated into metal displays. Surrealist mannequins by artist Daniel Silver introduce an additional layer of artistry. Ruxandra Halleröd emphasizes that the design thrives on contrasts, mirroring Tokyo's own blend of high-tech and historical elements. The stark, hard-material-clad building contrasts with the irregular, shiny furniture, creating unexpected visual and tactile experiences. Christian Halleröd, also a co-founder of Halleroed, highlights Japan as a significant source of inspiration, particularly for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The store's opening is also marked by a collaboration with artist Takuro Kuwata, who created a series of candy-bright ceramic vessels and reinvented the brand's 'Camero' bag and denim jeans with rainbow designs and trompe l'œil effects. This reflects Johansson's perspective that "fashion is supposed to be fun" and a desire for luxury to be inclusive rather than exclusive, a philosophy that deeply informs the new Tokyo flagship. #AcneStudios #Tokyo #FlagshipStore #FashionDesign #RetailArchitecture #InteriorDesign #JapaneseCraftsmanship #ContemporaryArt

Oide Kitchen, a new bento shop, has recently opened in Downtown Honolulu's Arcade Building, taking over a space that previously housed various eateries. The establishment is a reincarnation of Okonomiyaki Chibo, a Japanese restaurant that operated in Waikīkī for three decades before closing due to rising rent. The owners have pivoted to a bento shop model, aiming to cater to the Downtown lunch crowd with familiar grab-and-go options and made-to-order dishes. The name "Oide" is an informal Japanese word meaning "come," reflecting the owners' welcoming approach. The menu at Oide Kitchen features a variety of bentos, salads, side dishes, and donburi bowls. Popular bento options include Chicken namban, garlic chicken, salmon, and garlic shrimp, all priced between $14 and $15. A tofu vegetable bento is available for $13.75, and the Oide salad costs $12. Each bento includes a substantial portion of rice, two vegetable sides, and pickles, offering a complete meal. For those seeking a made-to-order option, the loco moco don, priced at $16, features a thick hamburger patty and egg served with a demi-glace gravy over rice. Customers can also choose from additional side dishes to complement their meals. Examples include potato salad for $5 and dashimaki tamago, a rolled omelet, for $7. The garlic chicken bento, highlighted in the article, consists of grilled chicken served with a shoyu sauce, noted for its strong garlic flavor. The generous portions and flavorful dishes have been well-received, particularly the well-cooked rice. The Arcade Building has historically hosted various culinary establishments, including the Silk Road Café, which offered Uzbek cuisine. Oide Kitchen now brings a different culinary experience to the location, focusing on Japanese-inspired bentos. The owners' transition from a full-service restaurant to a bento shop signifies an adaptation to market demands and the specific needs of the Downtown workforce, offering convenient and satisfying lunch options. The positive reception from early customers, including the author and their coworkers, suggests that Oide Kitchen is establishing itself as a viable option for local diners. #OideKitchen #BentoShop #DowntownHonolulu #JapaneseCuisine #GrabAndGo #LocalEats #HonoluluDining #ArcadeBuilding

West Elm has unveiled a new furniture collection that stems from a collaboration between the company and Diego Olivero of Meso Goods, designed to support Guatemalan artisans. The partnership originated from West Elm's involvement in the Lake Atitlán initiative, where they assisted in painting homes in a Guatemalan lakeshore town. This initial community engagement evolved into a significant design collaboration, culminating in a collection of vibrant furniture pieces, including chairs and ottomans. The entire collection was handcrafted by local artisans, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship and celebrating the rich native culture of Guatemala. The collection features several distinctive items. One notable piece is the Roar + Rabbit x Diego Olivero Phoebe Chair, priced at $999. This chair is characterized by a watercolor-wash mosaic print that introduces a subtle yet colorful element to any room. Another item is the Roar + Rabbit x Diego Olivero Ottoman, available for $399. Described as a small stool with a significant design impact, it showcases the intricate patterns and vivid colors typical of the collection. The Roar + Rabbit x Diego Olivero Mid-Century Show Wood Chair, costing $899, blends a classic Mid-Century wood frame with a fresh aesthetic, featuring lapis and bright white accents. Beyond seating, the collection also includes textiles, such as the Roar + Rabbit x Diego Olivero Floral Rug, which starts at $149. This rug, noted for its floral design, is presented as a sophisticated option that avoids being overly elaborate. Completing the highlighted items is the Roar + Rabbit x Diego Olivero Retro Wing Chair, priced at $749, which leverages one of the collection's appealing prints on a distinctive furniture piece. The article expresses enthusiasm for the collection's aesthetic appeal and its foundational mission. A key aspect of this collection is its philanthropic component. All proceeds generated from the sale of each piece through an official auction will be directly donated to the Lake Atitlán Project. This initiative underscores a commitment to giving back to the community where the artistic inspiration and labor originated. For those interested in acquiring more pieces from this design, an even larger selection of the collection is available online. Laurel Benedum, the Market Editor for ELLE Decor, authored the article, highlighting the blend of design innovation and social responsibility evident in this collaboration. #WestElm #GuatemalanArtisans #MesoGoods #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #ArtisanCrafts #SocialResponsibility #DesignCollaboration #LakeAtitlanProject

Galerias El Triunfo, a prominent Mexican home decor chain, has established itself as a purveyor of unique and often outlandish items across its 47 branches nationwide, with 19 located in Mexico City alone. The store, which began as a small crafts retailer 50 years ago, was founded by Don Fermín, who was described by community manager Ricardo López as a visionary. Fermín's approach involved seeking out distinctive international items as Mexico's borders opened to international commerce, resulting in a product range that spans from conventional household goods to highly unusual decorative pieces. The store's extensive inventory is designed to cater to various spaces, including homes, offices, hotels, restaurants, bars, and event venues. Shoppers can find practical items alongside highly eccentric pieces like a toilet with an integrated sink that reuses wastewater for flushing, or a two-meter-high heel-shaped pot. This eclectic mix, driven by a philosophy of following fashion trends and offering innovative designs, aims to provide customers with items that make their spaces unique and memorable. The distinctive and often whimsical nature of Galerias El Triunfo's products has garnered significant attention on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. A popular trend, "POV: Shopping at Galerías El Triunfo," features users humorously showcasing the store's more bizarre offerings, with skits depicting shoppers requesting improbable items and employees readily producing them. This trend highlights the store's reputation for having an item for every imaginable, no matter how unusual, decorative need. Despite the focus on its quirkier products in social media, Galerias El Triunfo maintains significant commercial success. It is ranked among the top five businesses in Mexico's "retail trade of articles for interior decoration" sector, a market that generated 3.37 trillion pesos (US $1.81 billion) in 2024, according to INEGI, Mexico's statistics agency. The chain's continued growth and popularity indicate a broad appeal among Mexican consumers, who appreciate its diverse and often surprising selection. Ricardo López emphasizes the store's mission to continuously introduce new items and "make Mexico a more beautiful place" by astonishing customers and enabling them to transform their spaces or events into something spectacular. This commitment ensures that whether customers are planning a party, wedding, or quinceañera, Galerias El Triunfo is likely to offer not only the expected but also unexpected and extraordinary decorative elements, from unicorn figurines to baroque chandeliers. This approach underscores the store’s role as a cultural phenomenon in Mexican retail, blending utility with a sense of playful extravagance. #GaleriasElTriunfo #HomeDecor #MexicanRetailers #KitschyDesign #InteriorDecoration #SocialMediaTrends #RetailIndustry #MexicoLiving