Inside a Brasília apartment's contemporary renovation

The Apartamento Relicário, or “Reliquary Apartment,” designed by Hersen Mendes Arquitetura in Brasília, Brazil, transforms a 1,022-square-foot apartment into a functional and nostalgic home. The project was initiated by a daughter who sought to create a welcoming space for her elderly mother, located one floor below her own, fostering a sense of family togetherness across three generations. Rather than simply modernizing the space, the architects emphasized preserving and integrating the resident's lifelong collection of keepsakes, such as cups, travel souvenirs, and photos, treating them as integral elements of the home's architecture and cultural narrative. This approach ensures that the apartment not only accommodates daily living but also celebrates a life rich with memories. Central to the design is the open-plan living area, achieved by reconfiguring walls to improve sightlines and encourage social interaction. The kitchen, traditionally a separate and utilitarian space, is now seamlessly connected to the living and dining areas, promoting conversation and a sense of expansiveness. This integration is crucial for fostering a warm and inclusive environment where family members can comfortably gather. The design team, led by Anastácia Hersen and Matheus Mendes, thoughtfully incorporated features that support the resident’s autonomy and well-being without appearing clinical. Wider circulation paths facilitate easy movement throughout the apartment, while strategic use of contrasting neutral and vibrant tones, particularly between the kitchen and living spaces, aids visual orientation. Emphasis was also placed on lighting and materiality to enhance comfort and security. Soft, indirect lighting minimizes glare and shadows, creating a gentle ambiance, while natural materials such as wood and textiles, combined with a palette of natural tones, imbue the space with warmth and familiarity. These elements are chosen to feel intuitive and reassuring, aligning with the daily routines and preferences of an elderly resident. A dedicated home studio at the end of the hallway serves as a private sewing room, reflecting one of the resident’s hobbies. This space combines practicality with serene pink and blue hues, featuring a large mirror and a comfortable workspace. In the bedroom, a custom bed frame ingeniously incorporates integrated grab bars, seamlessly blending safety features with aesthetic design. Similarly, the bathroom is designed with both practicality and comfort in mind, embedding support elements directly into the architectural details, ensuring they appear intentional rather than institutional. The overall design of Apartamento Relicário demonstrates a profound understanding of designing for seniors, creating an accessible, comfortable, and emotionally resonant home that honors personal history and encourages intergenerational connections. The project successfully balances contemporary design with a deep respect for accumulated memories, resulting in a unique and supportive living environment. #InteriorDesign #AgingInPlace #NostalgicHome #AccessibleDesign #BrazilianArchitecture #HersenMendesArquitetura #SeniorLiving #MemoryKeeping

Porto-based architecture studio Fala Atelier undertook a significant renovation of a 60-square-metre apartment located in a historic tile-clad building in downtown Lisbon. The project, named Príncipe Real Apartment, was led by Fala Atelier co-founders Filipe Magalhães and Ana Luisa Soares. The primary objective of the renovation was to transform a cramped and spatially disorganised flat into a bright, open-plan living space. The initial state of the apartment was characterized by an erratic spatial system, with interior walls creating a tightly packed and inefficient layout. The architects decided to completely remove all existing interior walls, effectively gutting the apartment to establish a clean slate. Following this demolition, only two new partitions were introduced, allowing for a largely open-plan configuration that dramatically altered the flow and perception of space within the flat. A key design intervention involved the strategic relocation of living spaces. The architects moved the primary living and dining areas from the north side of the apartment to the south, thereby maximising access to natural light and offering enhanced views of the city from the small, enclosed balcony. This reorientation not only improved daylighting but also capitalized on the apartment's urban context. The redesigned layout incorporates mirrored and glass sliding doors, which play a crucial role in enhancing the sense of openness and light. These doors connect the central living and dining space to bedrooms and bathrooms positioned on either side. The reflective surfaces of the mirrored doors contribute to the illusion of a larger space and help distribute light throughout the interior. The balcony, featuring two glazed sides, was conceived as a direct extension of the living room, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor areas through two doorways and an adjoining white brick wall. Material choices further contribute to the apartment's aesthetic and functional improvements. The floor in the main living area is adorned with black and white patterned tiles, a design choice that subtly references the decorative facade of the building itself. Bright white paint was used extensively on both walls and ceilings throughout the apartment, creating a neutral and expansive backdrop. This 'clear canvas' approach allows for a curated selection of furniture pieces, which are treated as independent objects within the space, to stand out. Custom-designed furniture elements add character and functionality. A deep green sideboard, featuring a tessellating geometric print, is positioned in the living space, serving as a preparation area adjacent to the kitchen. In one of the bedrooms, a chest of pale-blue drawers with a diamond pattern cut into its surface provides both storage and a decorative accent. The apartment's previous layout included a windowless bedroom in the centre, which lacked views. This was rectified by re-situating both bedrooms side-by-side across the north facade, with the master bedroom gaining French doors that open onto a small balcony. The project effectively addressed the spatial deficiencies of the original flat, creating a modern, light-filled, and functionally superior living environment through thoughtful demolition, reorientation, and strategic material and furniture selections. #ApartmentRenovation #LisbonArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #FalaAtelier #ResidentialArchitecture #SpaceRedesign #ModernInteriors

Apartment NUBE in São Paulo, Brazil, is a 4,521-square-foot urban retreat designed by Nati Minas & Studio and Flipê Arquitetura, specifically tailored to the lives and extensive CD collection of its owners. Located in the tree-lined Jardim Europa neighborhood, the apartment strikes a balance between calm and drama, featuring a double-height living space and sliding glass walls that open up the interior. The design process was deeply personalized, with the architects meticulously studying the residents' daily routines to create a functional and aesthetic environment that caters to both intimate moments and large social gatherings. The apartment's layout includes expansive areas for entertaining, alongside more private spaces such as an intimate kitchen, a bar, a wine cellar, a home theater, and an office. Architect Nati Minas emphasizes the firm's philosophy of translating the client's essence into the architectural design, viewing each project as a unique portrait of its inhabitants. This client-centric approach ensures that the space is not merely trendy but deeply reflective of the homeowners' personalities and needs. A central feature of Apartment NUBE is the ingenious integration of the owner's collection of over 5,000 CDs. Instead of relegating the collection to a hidden room, the designers transformed it into an integral architectural element. Floor-to-ceiling shelves line the structural perimeter of the apartment, accessible via elevated walkways. This design choice not only showcases the collection but also draws the eye upwards, enhancing the verticality of the double-height living room and allowing natural light to permeate the space. The repeating wood-framed modules create a visual rhythm that guides visitors through the musical archives. The material palette of Apartment NUBE leans into texture, providing a tactile and grounding experience. Chunky granite slabs are strategically incorporated throughout the apartment, appearing in an entrance wall that conceals a hidden door, the sculptural staircase, kitchen work surfaces, and the bar island. These rugged surfaces offer a striking contrast to the smooth wooden finishes found on the floors and ceilings, which contribute to a sense of warmth in the social areas. Connecting the two floors is an angular staircase, wrapped in light, textured wood and featuring rustic granite treads. This staircase serves as a sculptural focal point, anchoring the open-plan living areas. While the overall palette is largely neutral, curated splashes of color are introduced through elements like lush green plants, placed on custom-carved stone bases beneath the stairs, and freestanding furniture pieces. These pops of color and distinct furniture arrangements define different zones within the open layout without disrupting the apartment’s seamless flow, resulting in an environment that is both serene and engaging. Beyond the main living area, a cozy bar adjacent to the living room includes an enclosed wine cellar, designed as a private lounge space for the couple or for entertaining close friends. This area maintains a sense of privacy while remaining conveniently close to the kitchen for easy access to snacks. The thoughtful integration of personal passions, functional design, and a harmonious material palette results in a sophisticated and deeply personal living space in São Paulo. #ApartmentDesign #SãoPauloArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CustomLivingSpace #CDCollectionIntegration #TexturalMaterials #ModernBrazilianDesign #DoubleHeightLiving #ClientCentricDesign

The article details the renovation of Unit 622, an apartment located within Montreal's historic Habitat 67 housing complex. Designed by the interior and industrial design firm Rainville Sangaré, the project transformed the space into a bright, open, and modern home. The renovation focused on simple lines, material integrity, and a minimalist aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Brutalist architectural style of Habitat 67 itself. The original complex, conceived by Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie in the 1960s, aimed to provide affordable urban living through 158 stacked, prefabricated concrete units. Unit 622 features a unique T-shaped layout formed by two prefab blocks. A key aspect of the renovation involved preserving the concrete junction where these two volumes meet, leaving it exposed as an homage to the apartment's history, complete with original construction markings. The design choices were also influenced by Habitat 67's location on the Saint-Laurence River, particularly the challenging winter conditions. Rainville Sangaré opted for a minimal material and color palette, incorporating raw finishes like steel and concrete throughout the space to enhance the natural light and reflect the building's robust character. The living room features built-in shelves framing the window, and custom-made ventilation grids were installed, reflecting the owners' interest in local craft and design. A notable artistic element is a commissioned piece by local artist James Kennedy, mounted on a sliding door that conceals the television. The apartment is entirely outfitted with Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting, a collection inspired by Habitat 67's rectangular prefab blocks. The kitchen, designed for efficiency, was crafted by local brand À Hauteur d’homme. The guest room is designed for versatility, featuring a hideaway bed that allows the space to function as an office, also lit by Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting. The main bedroom is predominantly oak, with a custom-designed bed and nightstand, and also features lighting by Sangaré. Streamlined oak panels are used for the wardrobe. In contrast to the minimalist living areas, the bathrooms introduce color and intriguing finishes, including a dichroic glass shower divider that changes color under different lighting conditions. Concrete tiles in the bathrooms further reference the building's Brutalist origins. The renovation successfully marries contemporary design with the historical and architectural integrity of Habitat 67, creating a sophisticated and functional living space. #Habitat67 #MontrealRenovation #ModernApartment #BrutalistArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #PrefabHomes #RainvilleSangaré

STUDIOTAMAT undertook a comprehensive renovation of Casa Rude, a 120-square-meter Brutalist-inspired apartment with a 40-square-meter terrace located in the suburbs of Rome, specifically in Tor de’ Cenci. This project was designed for a lawyer couple seeking a departure from their previous small city apartments, desiring a residence filled with natural light, original character, and modern amenities, all while overlooking the Castelporziano Nature Reserve, providing both wooded and sea views. The design philosophy centered on enhancing the distinctive features of the 1980s terraced building, aiming to re-establish spatial fluidity and highlight existing materials and details as a foundation for a new aesthetic vision. The main living area was conceived as an open-plan loft, characterized by unfinished walls and exposed concrete elements from the building's support structure, which serve to visually interconnect the various spaces. This raw, Brutalist foundation is harmoniously combined with a diverse palette of tones, textures, and materials, creating a visually engaging environment. The coarse texture of terracotta tiles on the oval kitchen island and the concrete pillars provides a striking contrast with the smooth, elegant Patagonia marble countertops that link these elements. Custom design pieces are integrated throughout the apartment, such as a dining table featuring a Shou sugi treated wood top, supported by a black base and a glossy red ceramic leg, introducing a sleek, modern touch. Functionality is addressed through a large, birch wood cube that acts as a multifunctional unit, ingeniously concealing a pantry, offering coat storage, providing additional storage solutions, and housing a television. In the home office area, a wall constructed from perforated bricks facilitates the passage of natural light while maintaining a subtle separation from the living room. A custom-designed desk extends from built-in shelves and is supported by a circular red wheel, which echoes the design element of the dining table and allows the desk to be repositioned along a track. A pivoting door strategically separates the communal areas from the private sleeping quarters, which include a main bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a guest room. Within the primary bedroom, ribbed glass sliding doors offer a balance of privacy and natural light for the bathroom space. The terrace, an expansive outdoor area, is equipped with an outdoor kitchen, multiple seating zones, a dining area, and an outdoor shower, all positioned to maximize the enjoyment of sunset views. #BrutalistArchitecture #ApartmentRenovation #RomeInteriors #STUDIOTAMAT #ModernDesign #InteriorArchitecture #CustomFurniture #OutdoorLiving #PatagoniaMarble

La Macchina Studio, an Italian architecture firm, recently completed the renovation of a 1950s one-bedroom apartment in Rome's Appio Latino quarter, named 'Retroscena.' The project focused on restoring original Venetian terrazzo floors while incorporating bold colors and theatrical elements to create a dynamic living space. Studio founders Gianni Puri and Enrica Siracusa aimed to enhance the apartment's "irreverent and surreal nature" by playing with color contrasts, graphic motifs, and unexpected design elements, likening the space to a "surreal set where reality and fiction coexist in a quasi-theatrical scene." The renovation began with the meticulous restoration of the apartment's existing terrazzo floors, with local craftsmen enlisted to bring them back to their original state. To provide a neutral backdrop for the vibrant additions, walls and certain architectural features were painted in bright white. Against this white canvas, primary colors were introduced to create striking visual accents. For instance, an arched doorway and a low, mid-century style cabinet in the living area are painted a bright blue. A pair of zesty lemon-yellow fabric curtains can be drawn to partition the living area from the kitchen diner and to provide privacy for the balcony door. The blue-lacquered wooden archway, extending almost a meter from the wall, serves to screen the kitchen from the hallway's view and defines the entrance to the bedroom. A red wall-hanging above the sofa further contributes to the primary color palette. The bathroom was conceived as a two-room space. The first section, featuring a bath and shower, is encased in white square ceramic tiles with dark grouting, forming a graphic check mosaic. A pointy arched doorway leads to the second part of the bathroom, which houses a toilet, bidet, and a sink framed by the arch. Peacock-blue enamelled walls and a dimmable ring light mirror above the sink amplify the theatrical aesthetic within this private space. In the bedroom, a brick-red micro cement treatment applied by La Macchina Studio gives the floor a ruddy hue, offering a warmer, softer contrast to the bolder living areas. A low-hanging orb-style pendant light and peach velvet curtains further contribute to this softer ambiance. The entryway also features pinkish cement flooring, differentiating it from the rest of the apartment. Built-in white wardrobes in the hallway cleverly conceal a hidden room, which functions as a study, maximizing the apartment's functional space. La Macchina Studio, founded in 2013 by Puri and Siracusa in Rome, has previously undertaken other notable renovations in the city, including an apartment with terracotta-colored walls and another featuring a reading den with a porthole-style cutout. This Retroscena project showcases their distinctive approach to residential interior design, blending historical elements with contemporary, playful interventions. #ApartmentRenovation #RomeArchitecture #LaMacchinaStudio #InteriorDesign #TerrazzoFloors #ColorfulInteriors #MidCenturyApartment #ArchitecturalRestoration #ResidentialDesign

The design studio Toki Home has completed the renovation of an 89 sqm apartment in Hado Centrosa, Vietnam, for a young couple and their two-year-old daughter, Momo. The project's goal was to create a fresh and unique living space that reflects the owners' preferences and personalities, drawing inspiration from their passion for travel and exploration. The apartment now features a vibrant and playful interior, incorporating elements that cater to both adult aesthetics and child safety. The chosen color palette predominantly uses white and mint green tones, creating a refreshing and calming atmosphere suitable for all occupants. This color scheme also adds a touch of brightness and modernity to the space. A key aspect of the renovation, particularly with a young child in mind, was the selection of furniture with rounded designs and minimized corners. This careful consideration prioritizes Momo's safety, preventing potential injuries from sharp edges commonly found in standard furniture. A central decorative shelf has been integrated into the apartment's layout, serving as a focal point for displaying the family's collection of souvenirs and cherished memories from their travels. This feature not only adds a personal touch to the interior but also tells a story of the family's shared experiences and adventures. The thoughtful arrangement of these items contributes to the apartment's warm and inviting ambiance. Throughout the apartment, the combination of architectural elements like arches with common design shapes and vibrant colors contributes to a charming, fun, and cozy environment. The arches, in particular, introduce a soft, flowing aesthetic that complements the rounded furniture, enhancing the overall sense of comfort and playfulness. The intentional use of bright colors throughout various design elements further invigorates the space, making it feel lively and cheerful. The design successfully balances aesthetics with functionality, creating an environment that is visually appealing for adults while also being practical and safe for a child. The apartment's interior is a testament to how design can encapsulate a family's lifestyle and values, providing a personalized sanctuary that fosters both relaxation and playful interaction. The project demonstrates an innovative approach to family-oriented interior design, where every detail, from color choices to furniture selection, is made with both style and safety in mind. The 89 sqm space, though compact, feels expansive and welcoming due to the clever utilization of color, form, and personal touches, making it a truly unique home in Hado Centrosa. #ApartmentInterior #HomeRenovation #TokiHome #VietnamDesign #FamilyLiving #MintGreenAesthetics #ChildSafeDesign #TravelInspiredDecor #ModernApartment

The article showcases a unique Bengaluru apartment designed by Jonathan Sylvester and Jay Mandania of Studio Sylus. This home, nestled in Peninsula Heights, Bengaluru, was crafted for an elderly couple seeking a retirement community home that reflected their distinct personalities. The designers embraced a blend of classic and modern aesthetics, focusing on Indian interior design within a contemporary framework. Initially a furnished model apartment, the space required significant reconfiguration to align with the new owners' lifestyle. Key structural changes included converting a secluded family room into a state-of-the-art media room. Additionally, a small powder room was merged with the master bathroom to create a more spacious en-suite for the master bedroom. Recognizing the importance of a functional and visually appealing kitchen, the designers integrated the previously ill-lit kitchen into the main living area by removing walls, allowing natural light to flood the space. A clever design element incorporated into the apartment was the use of inconspicuous storage units and hidden doors to maintain a seamless aesthetic. A notable aspect of the design was the extensive sourcing of furniture and decor from across India. Pieces like a mother-of-pearl inlay console from Kanpur, rugs from Delhi, a swing from Gujarat, and a table from Chennai were meticulously selected and integrated to create a cohesive and eclectic narrative. Curated art pieces were strategically placed in a corridor, cleverly concealing access points to the bedrooms. The apartment's design also emphasizes the use of local and natural materials. Sadarahalli granite, Kota stone, and solid teak wood were incorporated, maintaining their earthy and raw essence while being refined to perfection. This blend of old-age materials with modern design elements creates a dialogue throughout the apartment. The entryway, for instance, features a large mirror with an intricately carved walnut frame set against Sabyasachi wallpaper, establishing a distinctive mood. The dining area boasts a large, monolithic table crafted from Sadarahalli and Kadappa stone, shaped with contemporary curves. To introduce color, the designers adopted a unique approach: they first selected rugs for each room and then built the corresponding color palettes around them. This project by Studio Sylus exemplifies a successful fusion of eclectic elements and locally sourced materials to create a characterful and modern living space. #BengaluruHomes #EclecticDesign #IndianInteriorDesign #StudioSylus #HomeRenovation #LocalMaterials #ModernClassic #InteriorDecorating

The High-Tech Architecture movement, which emerged in 1970s Britain, was characterized by exposed mechanical systems, structural elements in vibrant colors, and adaptable interiors constructed from lightweight, metallic materials. This style, often called “structural expressionism,” was popularized by architects such as Norman Foster, Richard Rogers, and Renzo Piano. It transformed industrial and factory production elements into an ornamental language, where functionality became the primary aesthetic. These designs paradoxically appeared as technology began to shrink, with the advent of microchips, home computers, and global communication networks. These advancements led to computer-aided design, new material technologies, and rapid prototyping, giving rise to sleek and simple technological aesthetics. Currently, a new generation of designers is reevaluating the meaning of a “high-tech” aesthetic in interior and object design. Moving away from post-pandemic trends that favored natural and organic materials, these designers are incorporating digital manufacturing techniques and processes while playfully engaging with past factory-made components. Harry Nuriev of Crosby Studios, known for his chromatic surfaces, pixelated videogame-inspired furnishings, and digital software-referencing wallpapers, views the past high-tech movement as a "cold engineer’s functional aesthetic." For him, contemporary high-tech design should be centered on the "virtual experience." Nuriev recently coined the term “transformism” to describe his design philosophy, which involves combining existing objects and materials to create a transition from one form to another. His Video Game Stool collection exemplifies this, inspired by the aesthetic of low-quality, downsized furniture files in virtual environments. Nuriev’s "transformist" approach, as seen in his Retro Futurism Collection, transforms streamlined machine-like motifs into soft, reflective textiles, mimicking liquid stainless steel settling into sofas or bedsheets. Other designers are using factory aesthetics as a foundation for broader metaphors in commercial spaces. Masquespacio’s MO Bakery and Espresso Bar in Saudi Arabia draws inspiration from the role of water in baking and coffee brewing, employing metallic finishes to evoke flowing water. Sandblasted pipes extend from a mirrored ceiling, forming booths and reminiscent of the pipes and air ducts of the Centre Pompidou. Curvilinear glass and chrome orbs represent gas bubbles, blending industrial shine with organic forms. This curvilinear approach advances the high-tech aesthetic toward a more streamlined language. This style is also evident in spaces where industrial elements were always present, such as Buero Wagner’s office transformation. The Munich-based architectural studio converted its basement into a workspace, using galvanized steel gratings for custom seating and welded furniture that appears to grow organically from the floor. An aluminum foil curtain provides natural light and privacy, allowing industrial elements like exposed gas pipes and X-Beams to remain visible. The versatile space echoes the flexible, open-plan ideals of the High-Tech architectural era. CHYBIK+KRISTOF’s Modular Research Center for KOMA Modular exemplifies flexibility and ecological motivations. This “innovation hub” for modular building prototypes incorporates elements of High-Tech Architecture and digital design, notably omitting right angles and using rotating containers as structural columns. Constructed from three main modules (roof, container, and floor), the center features shiny load-bearing walls and floor-to-ceiling windows that reflect natural light off perforated metal ceilings. The materials are locally produced, aligning with High-Tech Architecture’s original ecological concerns and emphasizing the structure as a dynamic, adaptable module that promotes human activity. The High-Tech architectural style has also influenced furniture and objects. The Korean design group niceworkshop’s Affordance Series, crafted from polished stainless steel, directly references industry and machinery. Chairs feature industrial lifts instead of legs and roll on steel wheels, while a bench, inspired by an assembly line, rests on a precisely engineered sphere. Oversized bolts and screws are exposed, making joinery and construction ornamental. This collection, aimed at “inducing human behavior and psychology,” encourages users to interact with objects as if they were industrial factory workers, pushing them to engage with the furniture’s mechanics. Founder Hyunseog Oh explains that the series uses elements like conveyor belt rollers and industrial lifts to highlight the interaction between furniture and user. This approach, recalling Le Corbusier’s concept of homes as "machines for living," embodies an ultramodernity celebrated by High-Tech architects. Whether in commercial projects or everyday objects, the familiar motifs of the High-Tech Architecture movement, adapted for smaller scales, continue to reflect a fascination with mechanical workings, extending beyond mere function into decorative expression. #HighTechInteriors #ArchitecturalRevival #CrosbyStudios #Masquespacio #BueroWagner #CHYBIKandKRISTOF #niceworkshop #DesignTrends #IndustrialAesthetics

The AML Apartment, designed by local studio David Ito Arquitetura, is situated in São Paulo's Brooklin neighborhood, within a tower that offers extensive views of the bustling metropolis. The primary objective for the interior design was to craft a spacious area conducive to entertaining, leveraging the building's winter garden with its expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing. The design team aimed to fulfill the residents' desire for large spaces bathed in natural light and a bright atmosphere, employing delicate colors to enhance these characteristics. The project specifically sought to accentuate the apartment's abundant natural light and its generous social area. The layout integrates a lounge and a bar, strategically positioned between a glass curtain wall and sliding doors, making the most of the prime location and incorporating ample foliage. Patterned tiles are used to highlight the wall behind the high counter, with light blue tones recurring in throw cushions, creating a cohesive aesthetic. A more formal living and dining area is accessible through a retractable partition. In this central space, a unique block houses two sofas facing opposite directions: one oriented towards a fireplace, and the other overlooking a larger communal sitting and eating area. This arrangement allows for flexible social interactions and varied seating options. Throughout the apartment, the entire back wall is clad in white panels featuring vertical grooves. These panels extend to cover the doorway leading from the wood-lined elevator vestibule and cleverly conceal storage spaces. The architects emphasized that this 12-meter-long grooved panel serves as a defining backdrop for the entire social area. At the end nearest the dining table, these panels are designed to concertina open, revealing the kitchen. In the kitchen area, the wooden flooring transitions to patterned green tiles, providing a distinct visual separation and adding a pop of color. Beyond the panelling, the remainder of the 260-square-meter apartment encompasses the private quarters. This includes three smaller bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. One of these smaller bedrooms has been repurposed as a study. A larger master suite provides a more expansive private retreat. The master bedroom, characterized by its neutral decor, is accessed via a dressing room. This dressing room features a stack of blue drawers in the center and a built-in wooden vanity unit along one wall. The architects noted that the identity of the social area extends into the intimate wing, evident in the furniture choices within the closet, specifically the underwear drawer unit with its small, colorful pivot doors, drawing a whimsical comparison to a magic cube. The furniture selection throughout the residence represents a blend of mid-century and contemporary styles. Notable pieces include dining chairs by Danish modernist Hans J. Wegner and lighting fixtures by Samuel Wilkinson. White walls and timber panels serve as a consistent backdrop, allowing various colorful accent pieces to stand out and provide visual interest. The architectural team explained that the white surfaces are differentiated by their textures and reflections, which, combined with the extensive use of wood, form an ideal base for integrating the desired color palette. This apartment joins a diverse range of residential projects in São Paulo, a city known for its numerous residential towers, which include everything from compact homes with flexible layouts to vast penthouses featuring double-height walls. #ApartmentDesign #InteriorArchitecture #SaoPaulo #DavidItoArquitetura #ResidentialInteriors #ModernDesign #FlexibleSpaces #BrazilianArchitecture #HomeDecor

The French Room at the Adolphus Hotel in Downtown Dallas has undergone a significant 16-month renovation, transforming its aesthetic from pastel cherubs and red velvet to brilliant white and expensive gold. This extensive facelift encompassed the restaurant’s three primary areas: the salon, the bar, and the dining room, each now boasting a contemporary and ornate appearance. Historically, The French Room maintained an elegant but somewhat dated charm, characterized by faded colors and pleated window curtains. The renovation aimed to bridge the gap between its traditional elegance and modern appeal, seeking to attract a broader clientele while retaining its prestigious identity. This required a substantial effort from the renovation team to update the decor without entirely discarding its foundational character. In the salon, the space largely retains its original architectural essence, featuring extensive carved dark wood trim and molding. The room is adorned with various artworks, and a single chandelier casts a soft, iridescent glow. Modular seating arrangements provide flexibility for accommodating different party sizes, ensuring comfort and adaptability. The bar area has also been updated, adopting a much dimmer lighting scheme that evokes the ambiance of a high-end speakeasy. It is distinguished by deep blue walls, classical paintings, and a brass ceiling. Silver trays filled with cocktail elixirs are meticulously arranged on a dark stone bar top, enhancing the sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. The dining room, often considered the heart of The French Room, maintains its original architectural framework but features extensive interior design changes. The former crushed red velvet chairs have been replaced with elegant Bergere dining chairs upholstered in pristine white fabric. Thick pleated tablecloths are set with pure white china plates, accompanied by a single glass and a gold candleholder. The previous artwork and wall coverings have been substituted with clean white and gilded flourishes. The heavily ornate molding and trim are now coated in semi-reflective gold paint, featuring classic French-style framing. Additionally, a few booth seats have been incorporated to offer guests more private dining options. Chef Michael Ehlert presides over the culinary offerings, presenting a refined take on French cuisine with dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern plating techniques. The menu, which is seasonal, includes items such as snails with pommes dauphine and watercress, seared foie gras, and consommé chartreuse. To conclude the dining experience, guests can select from The French Room’s traveling dessert cart, providing a sweet finish to their meal in this renowned Dallas establishment. #FrenchRoom #RestaurantRenovation #DallasDining #AdolphusHotel #LuxuryInteriors #FineDining #InteriorDesign #HotelRenovation #DallasRestaurants

This article highlights five distinct homes, each showcasing a living room design characterized by welcoming aesthetics, comfort, and personalized style. These homes, submitted by members of the Dwell community, represent various architectural approaches and geographical locations, including Mill Valley, California; New York, New York; Seattle, Washington; and Grand Rapids and Saugatuck, Michigan. Each entry provides a brief description from the architects, emphasizing key design philosophies and functional elements. The first featured residence, HillSide House in Mill Valley, California, designed by Zack | de Vito Architecture + Construction, offers an open and spacious floor plan. The architects prioritized functionality and flexibility, allowing the house to adapt to the evolving needs of its inhabitants over time. This design ensures that the living space can grow and mature alongside the family. Next is a gut renovation of an 1880s townhouse in New York, New York, by Allison H. Reeves, R. A., titled "Brooklyn Upside Down With Views." This project involved a significant reorientation of the home's layout. A new vertical circulation system and a dramatic rooftop skylight were incorporated to draw natural light deep into the center of the house. The programmatic flip places private spaces and bedrooms on lower floors, while the open-plan living room, dining room, and kitchen occupy the third floor to capitalize on the high ceilings and expansive views. "House For a Mother & Daughter" in Seattle, Washington, by Robert Hutchison Architecture, was designed with specific client requests: a simple building form, square windows, and a gable roof. The design intentionally creates a series of contradictions, presenting an initial perception that then reveals a different reality upon closer inspection. From the street, it appears as a single-story farmhouse, designed to integrate seamlessly with its neighbors. However, upon entering the site, the house is revealed to be two stories, with doors that open the main living areas to a south-facing deck. The interior spaces are conceived as blank canvases, allowing the artist client to personalize them. The fourth home, Rogue River Residence in Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Lucid Architecture, features a warm, modern design achieved through a variety of material textures, both interior and exterior. The living space boasts a two-story height, anchored by a modern fireplace, which prominently frames the outdoor view. Given the clients' passion for entertaining, the design includes a large kitchen that fluidly connects to the living and dining areas, promoting ease of use and social interaction. Finally, the Pleasant Street Residence in Saugatuck, Michigan, also by Lucid Architecture, incorporates a distinctive design element where the front great room is intentionally public. A furniture-like wall, drawing inspiration from Mies’ Farnsworth house, provides privacy for all other rooms, even in the absence of window coverings. A notable feature is that no rooms have interior walls connecting with the outer perimeter of the house, a design choice echoing that of a 1958 E. Stewart Williams house in Palm Springs, California. These diverse projects collectively illustrate various strategies for creating inviting, well-lit, and functional living spaces that reflect both architectural innovation and homeowner preferences. #HomeDesign #LivingRoom #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernHomes #Renovation

The Whistling Well, led by founder and principal designer Milena Bica-Shibata, undertook the task of transforming an expansive yet outdated Manhattan apartment into a modern sanctuary for a family of three. The design focused on creating a home that supports the family's lifestyle, which includes frequent hosting and communal meals. The 1,800-square-foot apartment now features three bedrooms and baths, alongside generous communal areas such as a lounge and living room, all designed to foster tranquility and connection. Bica-Shibata emphasized the careful selection of natural materials to achieve harmony and a variety of textures and temperatures throughout the space. The chosen materials include stained oak, ash, leathered quartzite, linen, leather, wool, brass, artisan ceramic tile, marbles, and warm tinted glass. This diverse material palette is complemented by a balanced scheme of cool and warm colors, creating a dynamic yet serene aesthetic. The design incorporates clean lines and rounded edges, contributing to a soft and inviting atmosphere. A custom wood ceiling trim in the living room serves to balance the space and draw the eye upwards, adding architectural interest. This wooden element extends into the kitchen and a custom-designed bar area. The bar was specifically conceived as a continuation of the perimeter millwork, seamlessly transitioning into the eat-in area, which features an operable partition. The design team meticulously studied proportions and materials to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing composition for these integrated spaces. The kitchen itself is a multifunctional tranquil zone, complete with a breakfast nook and the aforementioned bar, catering to the family's culinary and social needs. The inclusion of playful wallcoverings adds a vibrant touch to various areas, such as the children's room where a bold pink and orange wallpaper creates a focal point behind a daybed, and the bathrooms, which also feature lively patterns. Subtle neutrals anchor the main bedroom, promoting a sense of calm and restfulness. Layers of natural materials and earthy hues are consistently applied throughout the home, imbuing it with an overarching sense of peacefulness. This careful curation of design elements and materials successfully transforms the apartment into an oasis, offering a serene escape for the family and their guests amidst the bustling environment of Manhattan. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #NaturalMaterials #CustomMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Wallcoverings #ModernHome #TranquilSpaces

Colombo and Serboli Architecture (CaSA) undertook the renovation of a 65-square-metre apartment located in a 13th-century residential building in Barcelona's historic El Born neighborhood. The client, a young Italian woman working in fashion, sought to incorporate additional storage and a new guest bathroom into the property. The original layout was dark and compartmentalized, with two street-facing bedrooms and one near the entrance obstructing natural light from reaching the central communal areas. CaSA initiated the renovation by demolishing all existing partition walls to open up the space, highlighting the four-meter-high ceilings and large balcony windows. To provide separation between the entranceway and the main living area, a full-height navy blue storage unit was installed. This unit features a contrasting pink display niche and a doorway, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes for storing clothes and other belongings. The adjacent living and dining area is distinguished by a coral-colored arched volume. This architectural element cleverly conceals the guest toilet, which is finished with blush-toned tiles and a circular mirror. The architects chose an arch shape for this volume to preserve the feeling of height in the living room, ensuring it almost touches the wooden beamed ceilings without creating dark or dusty corners that a full-height or half-height volume might have. The design's arched motif extends to the kitchen, where a curved breakfast island is topped with a terrazzo-like surface made from flecked quartz. The remainder of the kitchen and living spaces maintain a bright and airy atmosphere, characterized by oak flooring and whitewashed walls. A pale grey sofa from the Danish design brand Hay complements the contemporary aesthetic. A significant challenge of the project was structural. Over time, non-load-bearing walls had acquired structural value. Their removal, necessary to restore the apartment's grand spaces, necessitated the installation of steel beams to reinforce parts of the ancient structure. This intervention allowed the architects to emphasize the original architectural elements while enhancing the newly created open spaces and their proportions. The original woodwork of the apartment's window shutters was also meticulously restored. This project showcases CaSA's expertise in transforming historic properties. Based in Barcelona, the firm has completed several other notable projects in the city, including a co-working space in the Baró de Viver area where they integrated storage systems and various space-saving solutions. The renovation of the El Born apartment effectively blends historical context with modern functionality and vibrant design choices, addressing the client's needs for increased storage and a more open, brighter living environment. #BarcelonaApartment #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #StorageSolutions #ColorfulInteriors #HistoricRenovation #ArchitecturalArches #SpaceOptimization #ElBorn

A 1970s-style Dallas ranch house underwent a significant transformation, moving away from its original closed-in and sprawling floorplan to embrace an open, light-filled modernist aesthetic with South American influences. The homeowners, with a background in Mexico and Brazil, sought to infuse their new US residence with the warmth and richness reminiscent of their time in South America, creating a vibrant backdrop for their art collection and modernist furniture. Interior designer Joshua Rice led the renovation, focusing on opening up the space, enhancing natural light, and establishing a cohesive flow throughout the home. The original house posed challenges due to its convoluted layout, characterized by a series of disconnected rooms. Joshua Rice addressed this by strategically removing walls, thereby creating a 150-foot visual connection spanning nearly the entire length of the house. This design choice not only improved navigability but also brought a sense of unity to the interior. The entryway now feels spacious and offers a clear view into the kitchen, fostering a connection with other areas of the home. Artworks by Pago Mann and Mr Brainwash, displayed on neutral walls, introduce color and a playful element. One notable design solution involved replacing a hazardous, zig-zagging three-step transition between two living rooms with a simple yet elegant stone half-height wall. This Pietra Grey stone box, with its precise detailing—waterfall edges and articulated reveals—effectively separates the upper and lower levels while maintaining a spatial connection. This intervention significantly improved both the safety and aesthetic appeal of the space, moving beyond the original architectural limitations. The renovation heavily emphasized the use of natural materials and a neutral color palette. In the eat-in kitchen, Faye Toogood's Roly Poly round table and dining chairs introduce a softening element to the otherwise defined lines of the main kitchen. The kitchen itself features cabinetry crafted from teak with bronze accent panels by Forms & Surfaces, paired with concrete engineered quartz countertops by Santamargherita. These elements collectively contribute warmth and a touch of midcentury modern style. White oak flooring extends throughout the main rooms, offering a durable and visually cohesive surface, while a custom vent hood combining teak and blackened steel adds a modernist touch. The living rooms showcase a curated selection of vintage South American midcentury modern pieces. The main living area features iconic Presidential armchairs and a vintage Oushak rug, complemented by a cast bronze table by Jojo Corväiá. The dining room is anchored by a 1959 Guanabara rosewood table by Jorge Zalszupin and illuminated by an RBW Palindrome light, with Fiona Weedon's "Tears and Flowers 1993" oil on canvas adorning Venetian plaster walls. The upper living room, centered around the Pietra grey stone fireplace, includes a Sideways sofa, vintage Alta lounge chair, and two 'Diz' chairs, alongside additional cast bronze and ceramic tables and a rare Brazilian sculpture. The home office incorporates Aim lamps by Flos, vintage swivel and lounge chairs, and a desk from Poltrona Frau, while the main bedroom offers a window alcove with seating and a blackened steel fireplace. The project successfully blends modernist principles with rich, textural materials, creating a luxurious and welcoming environment. The architect, Mark McCollum, noted that despite the original convoluted floorplan, the careful crafting of connections resulted in a grand and gracious home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernistHome #DallasArchitecture #MidCenturyModern #SouthAmericanInfluence #VintageFurniture #OpenConceptLiving #NaturalMaterials

The "Apartment in Bosques de las Lomas" project, designed by Taller David Dana in 2014, encompasses a 267 square meter area in Mexico City. The design emphasizes a balanced fusion of natural light, privacy, and curated views, creating a sophisticated and comfortable living space. A primary design element is a large wooden block strategically placed within the apartment, which serves to organize and differentiate the public and private zones. This central volume, clad in wood, is not merely a partition but a functional and aesthetic core, enhancing the overall flow and functionality of the interior. It accommodates essential service areas, including a laundry room, storage, and a half-bathroom, ensuring these utilities are discreetly integrated into the design. The wooden block also features a hidden door that provides access to the private areas of the apartment, maintaining a seamless visual experience when closed while offering functional separation. This clever design ensures that the public spaces remain open and uncluttered, providing a welcoming environment for residents and guests alike. Material selection plays a crucial role in defining the apartment's aesthetic and tactile qualities. A palette of natural materials is predominantly used, including carefully selected wood, stone, glass, and polished concrete. These materials are chosen for their intrinsic beauty, durability, and ability to create a harmonious and warm atmosphere. The interplay of textures and finishes from these materials adds depth and visual interest, contributing to the apartment's sophisticated character. Notably, the floor is finished in polished concrete, offering a contemporary and industrial touch that contrasts with the warmth of the wood elements. This choice of flooring provides a sleek, low-maintenance surface that reflects light and enhances the sense of spaciousness throughout the apartment. The ceilings are also constructed from polished concrete, further reinforcing the modern aesthetic and ensuring continuity in material expression. This consistent use of concrete creates a raw, elegant backdrop against which the other materials and furnishings stand out. Lighting is meticulously planned to enhance both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the apartment. Natural light is maximized through large windows, creating bright and airy spaces. Artificial lighting, including indirect lighting, is strategically integrated to highlight architectural features and create various moods throughout the day and evening. This thoughtful approach to lighting contributes to the overall ambiance, ensuring that each area of the apartment is well-illuminated and visually appealing. The dining area is particularly striking, featuring a table made from wood and black glass that reflects the surrounding light, adding a touch of elegance and modern flair. This reflective surface creates an illusion of depth and complements the rich material palette. The living and dining areas are designed to flow seamlessly into one another, fostering a sense of openness and connectivity while providing distinct zones for different activities. The furniture in these areas is arranged to promote conversation and relaxation, emphasizing comfort and contemporary design. In the private areas, specifically the master bedroom, the design continues to prioritize comfort and understated luxury. A large, wooden headboard serves as a focal point, grounding the space and adding a natural, organic touch. This custom-designed element provides a sense of warmth and sophistication, enhancing the bedroom's tranquil atmosphere. The closet area is designed as a direct extension of the master bathroom, featuring a transparent glass division that visually expands both spaces. This innovative solution not only creates a sense of openness but also allows natural light to permeate the bathroom, making it feel brighter and more integrated with the sleeping area. The seamless transition between these private zones exemplifies the project's dedication to integrated and sophisticated interior design. Overall, the "Apartment in Bosques de las Lomas" project showcases a harmonious blend of innovative spatial organization, meticulous material selection, and thoughtful lighting, resulting in a refined and functional urban dwelling. #ApartmentInteriors #ResidentialDesign #MexicoCityArchitecture #Wood #Glass #Concrete #PolishedConcrete #NaturalLight #ModernInteriors