Retro Glass Bricks Stack to the Sky at This Australian Apartment Building

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

The Roscommon House, located in a 1960s 'garden suburb' five miles west of Perth, Western Australia, draws significant inspiration from the area's modernist and brutalist architectural heritage. Neil Cownie Architects undertook extensive research into the local modernist buildings, identifying seventy still standing, after witnessing the demolition of a Brutalist concrete shell roof structure and a threat to demolish a beloved concrete kiosk. This spurred the architect to design a home that respects and converses with the local architectural ethos without merely replicating past styles. The suburb's history, characterized by wide blocks and substantial parklands, also influenced the design, particularly in the integration of landscaping. At 5,900 square feet, much of Roscommon House is single-story, occupying a significant portion of its lot. To compensate, the design cleverly incorporates 'pocket' courtyards and roof terrace gardens, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. This spatial arrangement is also driven by environmental concerns, designed to maximize winter solar penetration and capture cooling breezes. The exterior features a strong, street-facing facade made from board-formed concrete, with a solar array discreetly tucked on the roof. The custom front door is crafted from textured wood and accented with un-lacquered brass, encouraging a natural patina over time. Inside, the design maintains material consistency, extending the exterior concrete finish into the interiors. This is complemented by timber cabinetry and walls, as well as bespoke lighting and furnishings created by the architectural firm. The master bedroom suite is located upstairs, offering access to a roof terrace, while the main living spaces and other bedrooms are situated on the ground level. A basement provides additional space. Throughout the house, wall cladding and cabinetry utilize engineered timber from ABODO's Elements range, and the engineered wood floors are by Mafi. The living room features a steel stair railing and a window wall with a Mondrian pattern in its glazing, adding an artistic touch. Custom-designed pendant lights over the stairs echo the undulating recesses found in the concrete ceiling, a sinuous motif that reappears in various forms throughout the project. The kitchen island's shape is a direct reference to the local iconic beachside concrete kiosk, a building saved by community efforts. Curved ceilings gently hover above the stricter lines of wall paneling and inset shelves, creating a dynamic visual contrast. A rounded skylight above the stairs introduces natural light. Outside, the undulating lines are continued in the pool's shape and its overhead awning, further integrating the architectural theme with the landscape. Through this project and community engagement, Neil Cownie Architects aim to foster appreciation and awareness of the area's unique architecture, ensuring Roscommon House possesses a strong sense of belonging to its site and history. #BrutalistArchitecture #ModernistDesign #ConcreteHomes #AustralianArchitecture #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #CustomInteriors #ArchitecturalHeritage #LandscapeIntegration

The article highlights the enduring appeal and versatility of brick as a building material, challenging its perception as merely utilitarian. Despite being one of the world's oldest building materials, dating back to 7000 BC, brick is showcased through 15 diverse Australian homes as a timeless design element capable of inspiring and exciting. The discussion emphasizes brick's strength, versatility, and durability, which have contributed to its historical and contemporary popularity. Key advantages of using brick in Australian homes are outlined, including its low maintenance requirements, as it does not fade, rot, or rust, eliminating the need for frequent upkeep. Brick houses are noted for their energy efficiency, providing natural insulation that keeps interiors cool in summer and warm in winter. Furthermore, brick, being made from eco-friendly clay and shale, is presented as a sustainable choice. Its exceptional durability is underscored by the fact that many old brick homes continue to stand strong over a century after their construction. The article also touches upon some disadvantages, such as the potentially high cost due to demand and a limited color palette. The mortar used with bricks may also require repointing over time. However, these drawbacks are considered to be outweighed by the numerous benefits and aesthetic possibilities brick offers, particularly when incorporated into thoughtful designs. The main body of the article presents a curated selection of 15 beautiful Australian brick homes, each demonstrating a unique architectural style and approach to using brick. These examples range from a 1970s time capsule designed by Melbourne architect Nicholas Day, featuring original slate floors and exposed brick walls, to a Perth home by Gavin Hestelow and Tony Ricciardello that uses a mix of smooth and textured bricks in a geometric pattern. Another highlight is an 1890s manse on NSW's South Coast, celebrated for its classic heritage brick facade. An Edwardian-era stunner in Melbourne, conceived by BayleyWard, retains original exposed brick walls in its contemporary extension, maintaining a sense of history. Mid-century modern homes are also featured, with one situated in a high bushfire zone, where slender, off-white bricks were chosen for their non-combustible and low-maintenance properties. Modern farmhouses, such as one designed by Jillian Dinkel, show how traditional red bricks can be elegantly paired with parquetry flooring. A renovated period home in Melbourne, designed by Albert Mo of Architects EAT, incorporates dusty-purple brick flooring in its new wing, drawing inspiration from the original red-brick structure. The article showcases a renovated workers' cottage in Adelaide, where Benjamin Edwards of Ply Architecture utilized low-maintenance dry-pressed bricks to create a striking solid-to-void relationship with color and texture. An Italianate villa designed by Telly Theodore celebrates brick as a defining element of its extension, featuring handcrafted Danish Petersen Tegl bricks. Chyka Keebaugh's manor-style home exemplifies old-world charm with its ivy-clad brick facade. A reimagined Queenslander features a cantilevered living area with new brickwork referencing an original chimney. A post-war home in Maitland by Kennedy Nolan uses a simple palette of white painted brick and saw-cut travertine for consistency between old and new sections. A brutalist terrace extension by Inglis Architects utilizes handmade Danish bricks for a starkly modern exterior. A 'hit-and-miss' home by Clare Cousins Architects contrasts recycled red bricks with 'Chillingham White' bricks, while an industrial-inspired home in Mount Lawley blends seamlessly into its heritage suburb with reclaimed red bricks from demolished local buildings. These examples collectively illustrate brick's adaptability to various architectural styles, from Hamptons to industrial and contemporary, establishing its status as a versatile and iconic building material. #BrickHouses #BuildingMaterials #AustralianHomes #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalStyles #Renovation #HeritageHomes #ModernArchitecture #SustainableBuilding #InteriorDesign

Glass bricks, originally popularized in the 1930s by architects like Pierre Chareau and Arne Korsmo, and later embraced by Tadao Ando in the 1970s, are experiencing a resurgence in interior design. This lookbook presents ten contemporary projects that highlight the versatility and aesthetic appeal of glass-block walls in various settings, demonstrating their ability to manipulate light and shadow while providing privacy and unique visual effects. The featured projects showcase how these glazed masonry units can illuminate and transform interior spaces, ranging from compact bathrooms and hallways to restaurants, co-working offices, and residential dwellings. Among the examples is Maido, a sushi restaurant in London designed by Child Studio, which converted a 1960s post office. The design incorporates a semi-circular glass-block wall that pays homage to the building's modernist origins, complemented by dark cherry wood and a soft-blue coffered ceiling. In Hiroshima, Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP's Optical Glass House features a towering, two-storey wall of 6,000 specially crafted glass bricks. This innovative partition separates the house and its planted courtyard from the busy city streets, creating a play of shadows and refractions that extend into the living spaces, which can open completely to the garden. Remi Connolly-Taylor's self-designed London home, Maryland House, utilizes glazed inserts in a small statement staircase and as a balustrade for an adjacent balcony. These glass bricks filter light into the interior, maintaining privacy while ensuring sunlight reaches two bright-white bedrooms. Buckle Street Studios, a hotel in east London by Grzywinski+Pons, features a glass-brick facade with radiused corners on its top floors, giving the building a lantern-like appearance at night. The interior guest suites echo these curves with custom-made furniture designed to fit the rounded corners. In Athens, Studio Andrew Trotter transformed a 1970s warehouse into 10AM Lofts, a bright and sunny event space. The renovation involved replacing a significant portion of a concrete wall with glass masonry and inserting new windows on the ground floor, enhancing natural light. The Glass-Block Micro House in Ho Chi Minh City, designed by ROOM+ Design & Build, is a Dezeen Awards-shortlisted renovation where frosted glass bricks entirely replace the walls, even in the second-floor bathroom. This design choice transformed a dark and cramped space into a private, sun-dappled sanctuary. Spacial, a co-working space in Montreal by Ivy Studio, employs a glazed-block wall to delineate public and private office areas while allowing light to permeate. The interior predominantly features a greyscale palette, accented by large circular blue mirrors and a zinc-plated reception desk. Jun Murata's Diamant Glass Art Gallery in Japan utilizes glass bricks of various textures and translucencies to create shimmering refractions, mimicking light filtered through water. The sparsely furnished interior, including a classic Barcelona chair, allows the glass wall to be the focal point for temporary product displays. J Boroski, a bar in Shanghai by Atelier XY, incorporates a glazed wall that bisects the space, separating the main bar from an intimate lounge. This wall also serves as a ledge for drinks and is part of an unusual interior design reflecting the owner's fascination with insects, including a display of preserved tarantulas. Finally, the Vizor office in Minsk, Belarus, by Studio 11, reinterprets Soviet-era design. A snaking wall of glass blocks, combined with a deep red colour palette, geometric flooring, and hanging ferns, integrates traditional elements into a modern workplace. These diverse projects collectively demonstrate the enduring appeal and adaptive qualities of glass bricks in contemporary interior architecture. #GlassBricks #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #ArchitecturalTrends #LightAndShadow #RenovationProjects #HomeDecor #CommercialInteriors #SustainableDesign

This article highlights eight architectural projects from around the world that utilize glass bricks and blocks to enhance natural light, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. Glass bricks, which gained popularity in the 1930s, are experiencing a resurgence in modern architecture due to their ability to create luminous facades, internal partitions, and intriguing patterns of light and shadow. The selected projects demonstrate diverse applications of this material, ranging from residential homes to commercial spaces and greenhouses. The Optical Glass House in Japan, designed by Hiroshi Nakamura, features a shimmering glass-brick facade that encloses a residence on a busy street in Hiroshima. Approximately 6,000 bespoke glass blocks provide privacy while allowing diffused views and casting dynamic light patterns onto a tree-filled courtyard. The Brest Post Office renovation in France by Chatillon Architectes integrated glass bricks into the extension of a 1950s post office converted into flats, giving the building a contemporary quality alongside concrete and wooden elements. In Chile, Max Núñez Arquitectos' Casa de Vidrio uses square glass blocks to form vaulted roofs for a greenhouse. These blocks refract light, creating a warm environment suitable for tropical plants without direct sun exposure. Delmulle Delmulle Architecten's Glass Brick House in Belgium, situated on a narrow, enclosed plot in Ghent, employs a glass-brick facade to maximize natural light within the three-story home, addressing the challenge of limited window space. The Glass Fortress in Thailand, by Archismith, serves as an entrance pavilion for a sales office in Bangkok. Its facade comprises 20,000 rectangular glass bricks, which reduce the feeling of claustrophobia within the eight-meter-high walls and block out external noise. MVRDV's Crystal Houses in the Netherlands feature a partially transparent facade made from hundreds of glass bricks and transparent high-strength glue, creating the illusion of a dissolving wall that merges with existing terracotta brickwork, offering an alternative to a traditional shopfront. Remi Connolly-Taylor's self-designed Maryland House in the UK incorporates a tower of square glass blocks to enclose a red staircase. This design maximizes natural light while maintaining privacy and light standards for adjacent properties. Finally, ROOM+ Design & Build's Glass-Block Micro House in Vietnam involved renovating a compact house and shop in Ho Chi Minh City, replacing two street-facing walls with translucent glass blocks. At night, the house transforms into a sparkling lantern, enlivening the neighborhood. These projects collectively illustrate the versatility and renewed appeal of glass bricks in contemporary architecture for their functional and aesthetic benefits. #GlassBricks #ArchitectureDesign #NaturalLight #Privacy #FacadeDesign #GreenhouseDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CommercialArchitecture

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

The Vertical Glass House, designed by Yung Ho Chang of Atelier FCJZ, features an innovative design where glass floors replace traditional windows, allowing residents to view from a dining table down into a toilet in this concrete house in Shanghai. Originally conceived as an urban housing prototype for a competition in 1991, the design was realized 22 years later as a permanent pavilion for the West Bund Biennale of Architecture and Contemporary Art. This four-storey structure now serves as a guesthouse for visiting artists and architects, maintaining the original design's core principles. The house's design is a deliberate 90-degree rotation of typical Modernist glass houses, which traditionally emphasize horizontal transparency and views of the landscape. In contrast, the Vertical Glass House prioritizes vertical transparency. With enclosed concrete walls and transparent glass floors and roof, the dwelling opens up to the sky and the earth, creating a central, meditative space for its inhabitants. This approach offers a critique of conventional glass house designs by addressing privacy concerns while still embracing transparency, albeit in a unique vertical orientation. A singular steel column acts as the central axis of the building, extending upwards through all floors. This column, along with a series of intersecting joists, divides each level into quarters, each designated for different activities. One of these quarters on each floor is occupied by a steel staircase that spirals down to the basement from a double-height second floor, further enhancing the vertical connection within the structure. The aesthetic of the house is characterized by its austere concrete walls. These walls were cast using wooden formwork, which left a rough texture on the exterior facade while the interior surfaces were sanded smooth, providing a tactile contrast. The glass floors are seamlessly integrated into the structure, slotting into narrow horizontal openings in the walls. These junctions are equipped with lighting, which illuminates the glass edges at night, creating striking stripes of light on the building's exterior and adding a mystic quality for observers. Despite its innovative multi-storey design, the Vertical Glass House has a compact footprint of less than 40 square meters. The project description highlights its dual function as both a spiritual space and a material exploration. The vertical transparency visually interconnects all domestic elements, including utilities, ductwork, furniture, and the staircase, creating a system that reinterprets the modern theory of "architecture as a living machine." All furniture within the house was custom-designed to align with the original concept and maintain a cohesive appearance with the structure. The house also includes modern amenities like air conditioning. This structure stands as a testament to its original conceptual design, developed by Atelier FCJZ, and serves as both an architectural exhibition and a functional guesthouse, offering a distinct residential experience in Shanghai. #VerticalGlassHouse #AtelierFCJZ #ShanghaiArchitecture #GlassFloors #ConcreteDesign #UrbanHousingPrototype #ArchitecturalInnovation #ModernistCritique #SustainableDesign

This article details a challenging home renovation project undertaken by Ben Callery Architects in Melbourne, Australia. The client desired a modern and bright extension to their home, but the site presented significant constraints. The addition had to be constructed between existing boundary walls of neighboring properties, and it faced a less-than-ideal north-facing orientation, which typically hinders the ingress of natural light. Furthermore, the original facade of the house was historically protected, meaning it could not be altered. To overcome these challenges and introduce abundant natural light into the new space, the architects implemented a clever design solution: they raised the roof of the addition and incorporated clerestory windows on all four sides. Clerestory windows are high-set windows positioned above eye level, allowing light to penetrate deep into the interior while maintaining privacy. To specifically capitalize on the warming southern sun during winter months, the design team extended the clerestory panes on the southern side. This extension culminated in an elegant, upward-curving roofline situated above the kitchen area. This distinctive curving roof and the extensive clerestory windows dramatically enhanced the amount of natural light within the space. The result was a significantly brighter interior that also conveyed a profound sense of expansiveness. The interior design of the extension features a minimalist material palette. Bright white walls serve as a neutral backdrop, complemented by natural wood floors and cabinetry, which introduce warmth and texture. These elements are contrasted with jet-black window mullions and integrated built-in storage units. This thoughtful combination creates a balanced aesthetic, guiding the eye across the room with its striking black and white interplay. Adding to the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living, the rear wall of the extension is almost entirely composed of glass doors. These doors are designed to open fully, effectively blurring the lines between the interior living area and the backyard. The exterior space includes a sunken seating area, which, when combined with the fully opening glass doors, creates a harmonious and expansive living environment. The article highlights how these architectural and design choices transformed a challenging brief into a highly functional, visually appealing, and light-filled home extension. #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalLight #ClerestoryWindows #ModernArchitecture #MelbourneHomes #BenCalleryArchitects #InteriorDesign #CurvingRoof

Cloud House, a new residence in Bondi designed by Akin Atelier, serves as a serene sanctuary for a couple who divide their time between Singapore and Sydney. The design prioritizes careful consideration of apertures and subtle textures to foster a sense of expansive space and lightness within the home. The clients sought a house that would offer relaxation, facilitate enjoyment of the outdoors and sunlight, and eventually serve as a family home. A key design challenge was the clients' desire for the living space at the rear, which was the south-facing end of the site. Kelvin Ho, founding director of Akin Atelier, emphasized the meticulous attention given to junctions and openings, which he described as an opportunity to test their understanding of light and space. The design effectively uses various apertures and angles to fracture light into the building's core, ensuring ample sunlight despite the south-facing living area. A central courtyard, a double-height glazed wall, a raked ceiling, and strategically placed skylights are integral to illuminating the interior. These elements, combined with materials chosen for their interaction with light, create a calming and comfortable environment. The house's architectural composition features simple white geometric forms encircling a central courtyard. This courtyard not only ushers northern light into the living area but also functions as the main entry point, accessed via an external, bamboo-lined walkway. Glazing frames the courtyard, with an outdoor shower discreetly positioned among plants adjacent to the fence. The living, kitchen, and dining area, located behind the courtyard, appears simple but is a highly refined arrangement of materials and forms. A striking 6.1-meter glazed wall bathes the living space in sunlight, highlighting the textures and shadows of the adjoining white brick wall. A raked ceiling and gentle curves subtly guide movement and light deeper into the kitchen and dining areas. Functional elements are seamlessly integrated, such as a concrete step transitioning into a fireplace plinth, and shelving and cupboards evolving into kitchen cabinetry and a benchtop, all beneath a still-generous three-meter ceiling that defines a more intimate atmosphere. Minimalist glass doors connect the living space to a narrow side garden and a rear deck, stacking externally to maximize the indoor-outdoor connection. Project architect Georgia McGowan conducted extensive research to select glazing systems that balanced light maximization, indoor-outdoor flow, and cost-effectiveness. Slim-profile windows were chosen for critical openings, while standard profiles were used for side elevations. A flush floor finish and a fine-edged steel track further enhance the sense of uninterrupted space, with a slender circular column providing discreet structural support. This attention to detail extends throughout the house. Glass doors in the adaptable front room (serving as a guest bedroom, study, or family room) also retract into a wall. A distinctive round window in the bathroom pivots horizontally, contrasting with the facade's rectilinear lines. A skylight spanning the length of the staircase offers views of the sky, and slim-profile windows upstairs open to the courtyard. The second floor accommodates two bedrooms and a bathroom at the front, with the main bedroom and ensuite at the back. A passageway creates a natural division, allowing for the creation of private zones. The clients' bedroom, bathroom, and walk-in robe are arranged for spatial fluidity, with timber wardrobes divided by a vanity and a skylight illuminating the shower. Timber screens and neighboring bamboo create a secluded, sanctuary-like ambiance in the main bedroom, which also benefits from plants cascading from the roof. Operable rosewood timber screens, designed to weather and grey over time, contribute natural color and texture to the exterior while providing privacy. Elevated skylights create dynamic light and shadow effects. Ultimately, Cloud House exemplifies a design where seemingly disappearing windows, doors, and screens create a continuous and effortless sense of space, embodying Kelvin Ho's philosophy that "You don’t notice when you walk into a space, but you feel it." #ResidentialArchitecture #AkinAtelier #BondiBeach #NaturalLightDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernHomeDesign #ArchitecturalApertures #Materiality #ContemporaryAustralianArchitecture

James Baker's curiosity was piqued by a boxy building near the Baton Rouge Country Club, hidden behind a tall, vine-covered barrier, recognizing its departure from the traditional south Louisiana architectural style. One Sunday, he discovered the secluded home was for sale and scheduled an open house. This timing was serendipitous, as he and his wife, Marsha, had been contemplating building a new home. Upon visiting, they were immediately captivated by the property's design, which featured massive windows looking out onto a lush private garden and a dramatically designed pool. Within days, they made an offer on the house. The home’s appealing features—streamlined structural details, an open floor plan, ample space for art, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living—are characteristic of the tropical modern architectural movement prevalent in Miami. The house, built a dozen years prior, reflected the original owner’s preference for this South Florida aesthetic. Consistent with tropical modern design, tall and wide windows and doors throughout the home offer expansive views of the landscape and water features. Polished marble flooring extends from the interior to the exterior, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel. The overall ambiance is Zen-like, filled with natural light, and conducive to relaxed living, offering a warmer interpretation of typical modernism. Despite their previous homes being more traditional, the Bakers found the contemporary vibe of this house perfectly suited for their extensive and growing art collection, which primarily consists of bold and abstract pieces. The home's empty white walls provided ideal gallery spaces for displaying art acquired during their travels, as well as works by Louisiana artists sourced through Ann Connelly Fine Art in Baton Rouge and Soren Christensen Gallery in New Orleans. For the renovation, the Bakers enlisted Todd Normand of Bernhard Normand Construction. The project involved relocating a bar nook in the main open room to a separate living area, adding a fireplace and bookshelves to the opposite side of the room, and redesigning the master bathroom to include a sleek vanity alcove. Designers Helaine Moyse and Patrick Tandy, long-term collaborators with the Bakers, helped integrate the couple’s existing classic furniture with new contemporary pieces. This blend is exemplified in the dining area, where an 8x8-foot abstract painting by Meredith Pardue is framed by Venetian glass sconces and paired with a weathered antique Spanish dining table. Marsha noted that the mix of antique and modern elements, encouraged by the designers, prevented the space from feeling overly contemporary, maintaining a sense of warmth. The existing kitchen, featuring contemporary glass, metal, and exotic wood cabinet panels, initially challenged Marsha’s preference for all-white kitchens. However, replacing the dark granite backsplash with a multi-hued linear version brightened the space, and she eventually grew to appreciate its unique style, especially noting James's enjoyment of cooking there. Marsha, alongside friends Stacey Davis and Stacy Johnson, recently launched Envy, a decorating firm that began with holiday décor and expanded into full-service design. Through Envy, Marsha sourced window treatments and other furnishings for their new home, adding personal touches to the already impressive structure. The couple also took on most of the landscaping themselves, incorporating ferns, elephant ears, and other tropical-inspired plants around existing palm trees, with some natural materials from Red Onion and additional trees from Steve Rowley of Hydro-Scapes. They enjoy working in the flowerbeds and spending evenings on their marble-floored porch, which remains shaded and comfortable, watching the sunset with their three dogs. The once-mysterious home has become a cherished, comfortable space for the Bakers. #ModernArchitecture #TropicalModernStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #OpenFloorPlan #OutdoorLiving #LouisianaHomes #BatonRouge

This article highlights a distinctive apartment located at 535 Dean Street in Prospect Heights, currently listed for just over $1 million. The residence, situated within the building known as Newswalk—a former Daily News printing plant converted into condominiums—offers a unique blend of historical context and contemporary design. It features a large, open living space characterized by impressive 12-foot-tall ceilings and expansive, wall-dominating windows, catering to those who appreciate a flexible loft-style layout. The current owners have invested significantly in customizing the apartment, collaborating with a local Brooklyn designer to introduce bespoke interior elements. These enhancements include a one-of-a-kind design that employs angles to create a dynamic and visually interesting space. Notable additions are custom built-ins and a dedicated desk area integrated along a living room wall, optimizing both aesthetics and functionality. Creative use of space is evident throughout the apartment. A walk-in coat closet is ingeniously tucked within the foyer, providing practical storage without encroaching on the main living areas. A striking floating loft mezzanine, crafted with custom-wrought ironwork sourced from Brooklyn, serves as an additional sleeping area. This innovative structure frees up the space below for a more intimate living room configuration. The apartment comprises two bedrooms. The master bedroom is strategically positioned near the entrance, ensuring privacy and featuring its own built-in closets for ample storage. The second bedroom offers exceptional flexibility through the use of moving walls, inspired by traditional Japanese screens. This design choice allows residents to reconfigure the space as needed, adapting the open loft layout to various functional requirements. Beyond the individual unit, the Newswalk building provides a comprehensive suite of amenities for its residents. These include a 24-hour doorman, a well-equipped fitness center, a communal laundry room, and a common roof deck, offering convenience and opportunities for leisure and socialization. The building's history as a printing plant contributes to its unique character, setting it apart within the Prospect Heights neighborhood. #ProspectHeights #BrooklynRealEstate #LoftApartment #NewswalkCondo #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FlexibleLiving #NYCRealEstate #CondoAmenities

This article details the process of installing and flashing a window in an above-grade Nudura® Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) wall, utilizing the Prebuck™ engineered framing system and compatible Tremco™ sealants and flashings. Aron Jones of Big Dog Construction visits the Tremco Building Science Laboratory to gain hands-on experience and insights into achieving a weathertight, durable, and long-lasting window installation. The tour begins with an overview of Tremco's Building Science Laboratory, highlighting its testing capabilities for Nudura products. Jones observes a test assembly of an aluminum curtain wall, noting the use of Proglaze ETA, a translucent gasket designed for visual inspection of sealant application, ensuring a 100% sealed system. Subsequently, a Prebuck system assembled in a wall is subjected to a spray rack test, evaluating both water and air infiltration at 6.24 psf for two hours. This test underscores the critical relationship between air and water leakage, confirming that air leaks often indicate water penetration. The discussion then shifts to the Prebuck bucking material itself. Randy White explains the process of sealing the edges between the buck and the foam prior to concrete placement. This step is crucial for preventing concrete infiltration and providing additional security during concrete pours. The article distinguishes between flangeless and flanged Prebuck systems, with Marcy Tyler and Randy White guiding Jones through Nudura’s integrated flashing system. Key steps include preparing the surface by rasping it to ensure uniformity, applying Dymonic 100 sealant to prevent water infiltration into the concrete, particularly in internal corners prone to issues with peel-and-stick applications, and properly installing ExoAir flashing. Butyl-based peel-and-stick tape is preferred for its versatility, weather resistance, flexibility, and strong bonding properties with various materials. After the tape installation, a smear seal using Dymonic 100 is applied around all tape edges to enhance sealing. The final stage involves the window installation. Although the mock-up omits shims and leveling, the typical inverted U bead of Dymonic 100 is applied along the sides and top of the window opening before the window is screwed into place. This comprehensive approach, combining the Prebuck system with integrated sealants and flashing tapes, creates an air and watertight flashing system for windows in above-grade ICF walls. The benefits of using Nudura above grade are emphasized, including airtightness, structural strength, reduced concrete consumption, sound attenuation, and superior thermal performance. The Prebuck system is praised for its simplicity, pre-manufactured nature, and integrated compatibility, which saves time on research and ensures a reliable installation for doors, windows, or any penetrations in the system. #ICFConstruction #WindowFlashing #BuildingScience #Nudura #Tremco #PrebuckSystem #WeathertightInstallation #Dymonic100 #ExoAirFlashing

The article revisits the architectural material of glass bricks, highlighting their resurgence in contemporary design. Initially gaining popularity in 1977, as noted by Carter B. Horsley in a New York Times article, glass bricks were appreciated for their translucence, privacy, visual appeal, and structural order in residential and restaurant projects. However, after a period of widespread use, the material became associated with the dated aesthetics of the 1980s, leading to a decline in its perceived value. Despite this historical perception, contemporary architects are now re-evaluating and re-integrating glass bricks into modern designs. This renewed interest stems from their unique properties, which allow for innovative applications across various architectural contexts. The material offers a balance of natural light penetration and visual obstruction, making it suitable for spaces requiring both openness and privacy. Modern architects are employing glass bricks in diverse projects, moving beyond their previous utilitarian roles. Examples include their use in sleek, minimalist bathrooms where they contribute to a sense of spaciousness while maintaining privacy, and in industrial-themed bars and restaurants, where they add a distinctive textural and luminous quality. The material is also being incorporated into vintage residential windows, blending historical charm with contemporary functionality. Furthermore, glass bricks are finding applications in experimental urban facades, where they contribute to dynamic and visually engaging building exteriors. The versatility of glass bricks allows them to create different aesthetic effects, from smooth and uniform surfaces to more textured and fragmented appearances, depending on the type and arrangement of the blocks. Their ability to diffuse and transmit light without offering clear views makes them ideal for interior partitions, exterior walls, and decorative elements where controlled light and a sense of enclosure are desired. This adaptability supports a wide range of architectural styles and design intentions. The comeback of glass bricks signifies a shift in architectural trends, where previously overlooked or stigmatized materials are being re-imagined and utilized in innovative ways. This trend reflects a broader architectural movement towards material exploration and the re-evaluation of established construction components. The article suggests that the current "boom" of glamorous glass bricks is not merely a nostalgic revival but a sophisticated re-introduction driven by their inherent qualities and the creative approaches of modern designers, who are harnessing the material's potential to meet contemporary design challenges and aesthetic preferences. #GlassBrick #Architecture #MaterialInnovation #ContemporaryDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CommercialArchitecture #GlassFacade #DesignTrends #BuildingMaterials

In Melbourne's Armadale, amidst a streetscape of Victorian and Federation-style mansions, stands the Armadale Residence, a project by BE Architecture designed for a family seeking to downsize. The residence is notable for its substantial granite facade, weighing approximately 260 tonnes. Despite its mass, the silvery-grey, split-faced texture of the granite, characterized by quartz veins, lends a sense of weightlessness when light refracts across its surface, softening the modular design's hard lines. Large mechanical timber shades punctuate this stone sheath, complementing its organic feel and allowing daylight into the interior spaces. BE Architecture co-director Andrew Piva notes that the internal spaces are designed to be light and open, particularly the living area, which features fully retractable glazed doors that open onto an adjacent courtyard. The house occupies nearly the entire 537 sq m block, including a pool integrated with the rear wall. To manage the building's volume discreetly, the sleeping quarters, including additional bedrooms with en-suites for visiting adult children, are located on the upper level. A gym and a second study are positioned behind a subterranean double-garage, effectively concealing these areas from direct view. Landscape design, also handled by BE's in-house multi-disciplinary team, was crucial in creating an illusion of expansive outdoor space. A private Japanese garden adjoins the master bedroom's outdoor shower, while Mount Fuji trees line the front fence. This landscaping approach addresses the clients' desire for varied planted outlooks and terraces without the intensive maintenance associated with a full lawn. Throughout the residence, a juxtaposition of raw and refined materials is evident, with granite serving as a consistent element. For instance, flamed and brushed Torino Granite is used for the outdoor terrace, transitioning seamlessly into a honed, speckled version within the open-plan living area. The selection of a specialized stone mason by the builder, LBA Construction, underscored the importance of the stone's application, particularly in the master en-suite, where Fallow Granite was uniquely employed for custom bath and basin benches, engineered from solid blocks to achieve a dense, textural finish. An emotive quality is introduced through BE Architecture's manipulation of chiaroscuro. Generously proportioned doorways cast angular shadows, while a central oculus above the stairwell channels pure light, creating a crushed velvet-like appearance on the polished grey cement render of its curved walls. These sculpted planes stand out as the only non-linear elements in an otherwise linear construction, providing a striking visual contrast within the home's design. The granite facade itself is laid in a random brick bond pattern, incorporating three different-sized block profiles, a technique that references older brick-laying styles. This meticulous attention to detail extends to custom furnishings, such as the stainless steel kitchen benchtop, the elm dining table, and the Perspex ceiling light, all custom-designed by BE Architecture to integrate seamlessly with the architectural vision. The Armadale Residence exemplifies a sophisticated blend of natural materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and a nuanced interplay of light and shadow, resulting in a cohesive and thoughtfully designed family home. #ResidentialArchitecture #AustralianHome #GraniteFacade #MelbourneDesign #BEArchitecture #LuxuryLiving #CustomDesign #Materiality #DownsizingHome

Studio B Architects designed the Zale Residence, a contemporary house in Aspen, Colorado, addressing significant site challenges. The property, located on a sloped, angular lot close to downtown Aspen, faced constraints from an active street and neighboring buildings on three sides, along with a specific one-story building requirement. To overcome these challenges, the architects strategically elevated the 2,500-square-foot (232-square-meter) home on a concrete plinth. This elevation not only met the building restriction but also enhanced privacy for the residents and optimized their access to views of Aspen Mountain and abundant sunshine. The Zale Residence is characterized by flat-roofed volumes clad in zinc, resting prominently on the board-formed concrete plinth. The ground level of the structure includes a garage integrated into one side. Access to the main living areas is via a concrete stairway enclosed by glass walls, leading to the front entrance. Upon entering, visitors arrive in a central corridor that effectively divides the home into two distinct wings. One wing encompasses the primary living spaces, including the kitchen, a spacious living room, and the master suite. The other wing is dedicated to additional private areas, housing two bedrooms and a family room. These wings are designed to wrap around a compact, private courtyard situated at the rear of the property, creating an intimate outdoor space. Inside, the residence features extensive floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow natural light to permeate the living areas throughout the day. The architectural design incorporates sectional differences and an open-plan layout to further maximize natural light and ensure a seamless flow within the home. The hidden rear terrace is embraced by the architecture, offering a secluded outdoor retreat. The interior decor of the Zale Residence complements the exterior material palette, utilizing charcoal overtones to maintain a cohesive aesthetic. The finishes include light-textured porcelain floors, marble with subtle grey veining, and premium drywall, contributing to a sophisticated and modern ambiance. To introduce warmth and a touch of natural texture, wire-brushed cypress was used for both the ceilings and interior doors. Additionally, the home is curated with art pieces that reflect the clients' passion for travel, adding a personal and cultural dimension to the living environment. This project showcases Studio B's ability to navigate complex site conditions and regulatory requirements to deliver a modern, functional, and aesthetically integrated residential design. Their previous work includes an addition to a Colorado riverside home, featuring weathered wooden boards, further demonstrating their expertise in sensitive and contextually appropriate architectural solutions. #ResidentialArchitecture #AspenColorado #ContemporaryHome #ZincCladding #GlassWalls #ElevatedDesign #SiteResponsiveArchitecture #ModernInteriors #ConcretePlinth