OHLAB fronts new residential complex in palma with sliding wood panels

The Litibú Bungalow, designed by PALMA architects Ilse Cáredenas, Regina de Hoyos, Diego Escamilla, and Juan Luis Rivera, is a 50 square meter structure located in Litibu, a coastal town in the Mexican Pacific. Completed in 2020, the bungalow is characterized by its separation into two distinct volumes: one housing the bedroom and the other containing the living space, connected by a central covered terrace. This design strategically integrates the surrounding natural environment by allowing the breeze and jungle views to permeate the central axis of the house. The terrace serves as a transitional space, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior living, and offering an open-air area for relaxation and connection with nature. The architectural approach emphasizes simplicity and respect for the local climate and materials. The bungalow's structure is predominantly concrete, a material choice that contributes to its durability and blends with the rugged landscape. The use of concrete also provides thermal mass, helping to regulate indoor temperatures in the tropical climate. The design incorporates large openings and an open layout to facilitate natural ventilation and maximize daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling. This thoughtful consideration of passive design strategies enhances the living experience while minimizing environmental impact. The interior spaces are designed to be functional and minimalist, reflecting a contemporary aesthetic that prioritizes comfort and connection to the outdoors. The bedroom volume offers a private sanctuary, while the living volume, with its expansive views, functions as a versatile space for daily activities. The modest footprint of the bungalow aligns with principles of sustainable living and efficient space utilization. The project's location in Litibu, a region known for its natural beauty, further underscores the design's intention to create a dwelling that harmonizes with its surroundings rather than imposing upon them. The project was documented by photographers Luis Young and María Rivera, whose images capture the bungalow's seamless integration with its site and its interplay of light and shadow. The curation by Clara Ott highlights the bungalow's design merits, emphasizing its innovative use of space and materials in a challenging tropical context. The architectural firm PALMA, with this project, demonstrates an understanding of regional architectural traditions while introducing modern design sensibilities. The Litibú Bungalow stands as an example of how small-scale residential architecture can achieve both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsiveness. #ResidentialArchitecture #Concrete #TropicalArchitecture #SmallHouseDesign #MexicanArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalPhotography #MinimalistDesign

Architect Lane Williams and his wife, Debra, have relocated their Seattle-based architectural practice to Palm Springs, establishing a new home in the Movie Colony. Williams, who has been visiting the Coachella Valley since the 1990s, designed their new residence, which was constructed by Scott Cullens of Palm Pacific Construction. This is Williams' sixth home, with three being new constructions and three being major remodels, showcasing his extensive experience in residential design. His design prioritizes intelligent management of daylight, acknowledging it as a powerful force that can be manipulated and shaped by the architecture to cast specific shadows for comfortable living spaces. The house incorporates deep overhangs to ensure comfort in all seasons. Energy efficiency is a key aspect of the home's design, featuring thick walls, robust roof insulation, high-efficiency lighting and appliances, and solar panels on the casita's roof, all contributing to reduced air-conditioning costs. Williams’ design blends local styles, drawing inspiration from both influential midcentury architects like Albert Frey and Richard Neutra, as well as Spanish Revival works from the 1920s and '30s. The Spanish Revival influence is evident in the choice of gabled roof forms and thick walls, which provide superior insulation. Instead of traditional clay tiles, the roof utilizes metal for its light weight, earthquake resistance, longevity, and heat reflectivity. French doors replace standard sliding glass doors to evoke a Spanish Revival aesthetic. The exterior stucco walls are a foot thick, and the main house's gabled roof, inspired by early California Mission style, contrasts with the modern flat roof of the casita. The main living spaces feature an open plan, while the detached casita serves as an office for Williams and a studio for Debra, with the flexibility to convert into guest rooms. Minimal landscaping, including a sand-colored gravel driveway, reduces irrigation demands and stormwater management needs. The kitchen is designed for two cooks, reflecting the couple's enjoyment of entertaining and cooking. It features a six-person, fixed dining table that allows guests to interact with the hosts during meal preparation, with a linear box on the table concealing clutter. The cabinetry and counters, imported from Italy and installed by Tredi Interiors, are made with durable high-pressure laminates and single-centimeter thick porcelain slabs, respectively. Hiroshima dining chairs made from solid beech wood complete the space. The living room's design emphasizes a sense of connection while maintaining intimacy. Partial separations created by walls with gaps allow communication between spaces, differing from typical 'great room' layouts. The design draws inspiration from Moroccan homes, featuring a sprawling sectional sofa with throw pillows to encourage reading, lounging, and conversation. A Moroccan-inspired hanging lamp further enhances the room's ambiance. The room is decorated with a neutral Turkish rug, four small paintings by Oregon artist Tom Hausken, and a large painting by local artist Kippi Leonard. The interior finishes maintain a simple and cohesive aesthetic, utilizing ground and polished concrete floors, walls without baseboards, and windows and doors without trim. These materials, along with cement stucco, metal roofing, and anodized aluminum windows and doors, were chosen for their low maintenance and heat resistance. Hemlock ceilings conceal motorized shades and add warmth, while deep overhangs provide sun protection in summer and allow low-angle winter sun to penetrate the house. A shaded ramada connects the main house and casita, serving as a welcoming entry for guests. It features suspended raw wood strips that create a smooth, modern aesthetic by de-emphasizing structural beams. Debra Williams selected containers and plants for this area, which are integrated into the irrigation system, adding greenery against the neutral backdrop. The home's U-shaped design encloses a private interior courtyard with a swimming pool and spa, offering mountain views. With 800 square feet of covered outdoor space, there are always shaded areas for year-round outdoor living, allowing the couple to enjoy early mornings and evenings outdoors, even during the summer. #PalmSpringsArchitecture #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalRelocation #EnergyEfficientHome #MovieColony #SpanishRevival #Modernism #SustainableDesign #OutdoorLiving

The article showcases a unique residential project by Fala Atelier in Matosinhos, Portugal, which redefines suburban architecture with an unconventional design. The house, spanning 2,580 square feet, features an inverted roof where one side is curved and the other straight, creating a distinct silhouette that stands out from typical suburban homes. The structure is described as an 'exploded box' resting on a translucent plinth. The exterior of the house employs a striking black, white, and green color palette, a signature of Fala Atelier, but with new and surprising elements. Different vertical and slanted surfaces are meticulously chosen and set apart with varying colors. The facade is punctuated by a mix of round and square windows, which are arranged to compose three distinct elevations, some evoking faces or imaginary animals. Adding to the playful aesthetic, the house incorporates blue and green shutters that can conceal the openings, giving it the appearance of a paper collage with colored figures scattered across a white canvas. The color scheme is elaborate, featuring hues of green, blue, light green, black, white, and green again. Inside the residence, the structural elements are intentionally detached from the walls. A sequence of five slender, light green concrete columns is prominently featured in different rooms, designed to subtly obstruct daily routines, emphasizing their presence as sculptural elements rather than hidden supports. Notably, one of these columns extends to the outdoor terrace, seemingly supporting nothing, which further highlights the architect's unconventional approach to structure and form. The ground floor hosts an open living space that seamlessly connects to the garden and an office situated above it. The interior's complexity is enhanced by double-height spaces, occasional kinks in the walls, and the visible concrete columns, all beneath a gently sloped ceiling. The upper floor houses the primary bedroom within an extruded quarter-circle space, adding another unique geometric dimension to the layout. The house's construction is a deliberate assembly of various surfaces—straight, folded, cut, curved, and tilted—crafted from materials such as concrete, marble, and glass brick. These surfaces divide, overlap, intersect, and cover different areas, all anchored by the bold, punching-through columns. The interior space is designed to meander between these carefully choreographed elements, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. The architectural concept defines the house as a figure that is simultaneously complete and broken, reflecting a deliberate disruption of conventional architectural norms. #FalaAtelier #PortugalArchitecture #ModernDesign #InvertedRoof #UniqueHomes #ArchitecturalInnovation #ColorfulFacade #ConcreteColumns #SuburbanRevolution

The final high-rise tower at Bonita Bay, named Omega, signifies the last residential building to be constructed within the Bonita Bay community. The tower, a project by The Ronto Group, is designed to offer a luxurious high-rise living experience with a nautical aesthetic, reflecting its location adjacent to the Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve. Omega has set new records for price-per-square-foot in Bonita Bay, with a limited number of residences remaining, starting at $4.25 million. Scheduled for completion in late 2022, the 27-story building features 67 units. The design philosophy behind Omega focuses on providing residents with the spaciousness of single-family homes combined with the convenience and amenities of high-rise living. With only three residences per floor, the units are generously sized, none being smaller than 4,210 square feet. The residences offer expansive views, with west-facing units overlooking Estero Bay and the Gulf, and eastern units providing golf course vistas. The interiors are equipped with high-end appliances from brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele, along with Dornbracht fixtures, and feature large-format tile flooring that mimics wood or stone. Buyers have significant customization options, including the ability to incorporate premium materials like Italian marble or reconfigure living spaces, provided these changes do not impact structural integrity or construction timelines. Beyond individual residences, Omega boasts an array of resort-style amenities. These include a swimming pool with private cabanas, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness center, a theater, a billiard room, and a library. The common areas, conceptualized by Beasley & Henley of Naples, exude a sophisticated yet playful coastal Caribbean theme, characterized by the integration of teak elements, and white and gold accents. The architectural curves of the building are echoed in the interior design, with sinuous and sculptural details incorporated into social spaces and the fitness center. Residents of Omega also benefit from access to the broader Bonita Bay community's facilities, which include five golf courses, a marina, a private spa, a private beach club, and various dining establishments. The project aims to leave a lasting impression as the last development within Bonita Bay. The article also highlights a private home spa, known as a "Spa Casita," designed by John Cooney of Stofft Cooney Architects for Radka and David Mogull's family home in Naples. This standalone structure, mirroring the main house's tropical modern architecture, was a key priority for the homeowners. Interior designer Wilfredo Emanuel created a minimalist spa environment, incorporating elements inspired by the couple's international travels. The spa features a glass-enclosed steam sauna with cedar wood interiors, alongside an adjacent cold plunge pool. The design integrates a smooth stone sink basin perched on a Brazilian zebrawood vanity, complemented by built-in storage to maintain a clutter-free space. Adjoining the wet areas, a flexible space with wood floors and a mirrored wall serves multiple purposes, from a yoga sanctuary to a practice area for ballroom dancing. This versatile room, described as a "little gem," can also function as a guest casita. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the resort-like poolscape and backyard. The spa building is connected to the main house through a private courtyard, designed by Christian Andrea of Architectural Land Design. This courtyard, accessible from the primary suite, features lush greenery, black stones, a hot tub, a two-seater lounge, and a bartop table, creating a secluded oasis for relaxation and unwinding. #LuxuryLiving #HighRiseDesign #SpaDesign #ZenOasis #BonitaBay #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #CustomHomes #WellnessLifestyle

The author shares the initial details and the 'before' tour of their Malibu beach house, named Zuma Beach House, purchased in August 2020. The article begins by addressing frequently asked questions about the property and the upcoming renovation project. The acquisition of the Malibu house was prompted by a re-evaluation of life choices during the early months of the pandemic. The increased flexibility in work and school arrangements, coupled with the recent sale of their studio space in Austin, led the author and their family to pursue their long-held dream of owning a vacation home by the beach. The decision was not a sudden one, as the couple had been discussing a beach house for years, but the pandemic accelerated their timeline. The search for the property led them to a 1950s bungalow listed on Redfin located on the north end of Malibu. Despite its 'crazy floor plan,' the house captivated them with its sunset views over the Pacific, refreshing sea breezes, and existing citrus and avocado trees. A price drop prompted an immediate visit, and despite a stressful few months, they successfully acquired the house. Since then, they have been collaborating with architect Doug Burdge to redesign the space, aiming to align it with their vision and accommodate their family's lifestyle. The article clarifies that the family does not have existing ties to Malibu, as the author is from Texas and her husband is from San Diego, with most of their family residing in Austin. However, both the author and her husband have always felt a strong connection to the West Coast. Their personal experiences in Los Angeles and Malibu, including a memorable trip and visits to local homes and farms, solidified their affection for the area. They were particularly drawn to the north part of Malibu for its surf culture, focus on nature, and abundance of hiking trails, perceiving it as a more laid-back environment compared to the bustling pace of their lives in Austin. The Malibu house is situated on just under an acre, offering views of Zuma Beach and featuring mature palm, citrus, and avocado trees. It is located on a quiet street adjacent to a horse farm. While the property boasts charming elements, it also presented significant challenges. A prominent electrical pole obstructs the beach view, an issue the family has been diligently working with the city to resolve by burying it underground. Additionally, the existing 1,400-square-foot house suffers from low horizontal ceilings and a confusing floor plan, which makes navigating the interior difficult for guests. The renovation plans involve demolishing most interior walls to create a more functional layout. The renovation will involve maintaining the original footprint of the house while completely reconfiguring the interior rooms. A major addition will be a 1,000-square-foot great room, encompassing a large open kitchen and living area. All ceilings will be vaulted to enhance the sense of airiness and openness. The existing 600-square-foot guest house will undergo a gut renovation, transforming it into a chic, boutique-hotel-style one-bedroom loft. #MalibuRenovation #ZumaBeachHouse #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalRedesign #CoastalLiving #PandemicInspired #CaliforniaLifestyle

This article highlights five distinct properties from 'The Block' 2024 season, each offering unique architectural styles and luxurious features, now available on the market in Cowes, Phillip Island. Each house is presented with a detailed description of its design, amenities, and overall ambiance, showcasing the efforts of the couples who renovated them. House 1, renovated by Maddy and Charlotte, is a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with a double garage, designed for both permanent living and holiday retreats. Its interior features a warm living zone with soft furnishings, subtle pendant lighting, feature panelling, and herringbone flooring, complemented by a solid fuel heater. The kitchen boasts timber-look cabinetry, a natural stone island and splashback, and ebony Smeg appliances including two ovens, an induction cooktop, a coffee machine, and a wine fridge. Notable features include a spacious master suite with a walk-in robe and an ensuite, two additional bedrooms, a second bathroom with a freestanding tub, and a laundry. The upstairs offers a self-contained guest retreat (bedroom 4) with a third bathroom and an office space. Deluxe skylights, filtered water, three-zone split system heating and cooling, solar panels, and a 7-star energy rating enhance the home's functionality, while the exterior features a north-facing deck and a private plunge pool. House 2, by Courtney and Grant, presents an Artfully Crafted Modern Mediterranean Retreat with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. This home emphasizes quality and comfort through a high-end kitchen with an Asko appliance suite, Dekton Patagonia porcelain surfaces, and a 200-bottle Vintec wine fridge. The bathrooms feature viola marble, brushed gold tapware, twin rainfall showers, and seamless floating vanities. The design incorporates soft curves, north-facing light, Velux skylights, and high raked ceilings. Energy-efficient insulation, underfloor heating, air conditioning, and two fireplaces ensure comfort. It also offers two master bedrooms, oak herringbone floors, luxury wool carpets, automated blinds, a mezzanine study, and a luxurious Venetian plaster finish. The outdoor space is designed for entertaining with a wood-fired pizza oven, a private plunge pool, and a fire pit area, all expertly landscaped. House 3, renovated by Ricky and Haydn, exemplifies Modern Coastal Luxury Resort Style Living. This mid-century inspired home, designed by Julian Brenchley, spans 1116 sqm. The expansive living and dining area is illuminated by six custom Velux skylights and features a custom timber dining table, Cungelella artwork, a 5m Dekton stone plinth, and a Stoke Escea TFS1000 fireplace. The kitchen is a centerpiece with a 3.8m Morpheus Dekton island bench, Kinsman cabinetry, Cosentino surfaces, ABI Interiors fixtures, and Bosch & NEFF appliances. A versatile rumpus room includes a convertible pool/air hockey table and arcade machines, while the main bedroom boasts a resort-like ambiance with a Grafico palm tree wall and a luxurious ensuite with peach subway tiles and travertine floors. Additional features include a modern coastal bathroom, a stylish teen bedroom, and a serene guest room. The property also comes with a Barcrusher 615c boat and trailer. House 4, by Kylie and Brad, offers Luxurious Family Living in a Resort-Style Coastal Setting. This contemporary residence features an expansive living and dining area with Velux skylights, a wood-burning fireplace framed by Cosentino's Dekton Laurent stone, and a grand 10-seater dining table. The kitchen is equipped with Dekton Laurent stone, Hettich Furn Spin corner cabinets, LED-lit drawers, and premium Miele appliances. A stylish office space on the mezzanine overlooks the main living area, leading into a rumpus room. The main bedroom includes a Shou Sugi Ban feature wall, a coffered ceiling, and a walk-in robe, with an ensuite featuring a floating timber vanity and a freestanding bathtub. Three additional bedrooms, including a playful children's retreat, and a central bathroom complete this sophisticated home. House 5, by Kristian and Mimi, is described as Calming, Contemporary & Coastal, and is the largest home on 'The Block' 2024 season. Its interior design focuses on earthy tones and a coastal ambiance. The minimalist kitchen includes integrated appliances, an olive green Smeg Portofino cooker, Chevron flooring, and a three-layer Dekton benchtop, illuminated by a triple Velux skylight and a window splashback overlooking the backyard and pool. The main bedroom features an earthy palette, a raked ceiling, timber panelling, and an open walk-in wardrobe. The expansive master ensuite includes a double walk-in shower, heated towel rails, underfloor heating, and double vanity. A lavish downstairs bathroom boasts a large freestanding bath and twin vanities. The resort guest bedroom features an upholstered bedhead and timber panelling, with an ensuite. A cozy rumpus room and an imaginative children's bedroom complete the home, offering both luxury and functionality. #TheBlock #HouseDesign #LuxuryHomes #CoastalLiving #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #PhillipIsland #ModernArchitecture

This Malibu home, constructed in 2014 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, prioritizes indoor-outdoor living, reflecting the coastal Southern California lifestyle. The design and build were a collaborative effort between Evens Architects, Alana Homesley Interior Design, and the homeowners. The property is situated on a gently sloping site overlooking Santa Monica Bay. Central to the home's design is the loggia, an outdoor room equipped with a fireplace and underfloor heating, offering comfort on cooler days and evenings while providing shelter from the sun and ocean breeze. The loggia features an exquisite vaulted ceiling, a prominent design element. The entry foyer sets the aesthetic tone with a blend of casual sophistication and an old-world vibe. Glazed Moroccan zellige tile risers on the staircase pay homage to traditional Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and integral colored plaster walls contribute to an organic and earthy feel. Furnishings in the foyer include a hand-carved frame, an antiqued mirror, and a Spanish console table, complemented by sconces from Revival Antiques and an antique Khotan rug. The gallery, serving as a transitional space, connects the entry to the loggia. It features broad steel French doors, emphasizing the indoor-outdoor theme. Light-colored stone floors and walls balance the visual weight of dark wood beams and ceilings, with walls in a warm cream-colored integral plaster and French limestone floors from Exquisite Surfaces. The kitchen is designed with a European farmhouse aesthetic, characterized by an earthy and casual sensibility. The interior designer balanced the heavy hand-carved beams by painting upper cabinets in a creamy color to match the plaster walls, incorporating glass fronts and limestone counters to visually lighten the space. Design details include a small window under the range hood for full backsplash tiling, vintage kilim-covered barstools, a farmhouse-style upper island, a soapstone-topped lower island, and walnut lower cabinets. The kitchen's direct access to the loggia integrates it into the family's daily outdoor living. The primary bedroom suite is oriented to maximize ocean views, featuring a chaise and chair facing the Pacific Ocean and a window seat for reading. A rounded corner fireplace with an intricately carved stone surround serves as a focal point. An early 19th-century French cherrywood armoire complements the rich wood tones of the ceiling beams and oak flooring, while pale plaster walls and upholstery lighten the room. The primary bathroom draws inspiration from Moroccan riads, employing a warm, monotone palette. A freestanding copper bathtub is a key feature, framed by a chamfered niche with French doors opening to the ocean view. Limestone floors and plaster walls continue the home's cohesive design, and the doorway alcove is tiled with Moroccan zellige field tiles. Dark wood vanities are designed to appear visually light with open shelves, and gently rounded mirrors complement carved plaster niches. A vintage rug introduces soft color. The exterior features a pleasingly symmetrical approach with a hand-hewn wooden gate, an allée of olive trees, and decorative bronze gates leading to a lushly planted entry courtyard. The courtyard walls are constructed from Santa Barbara sandstone rubble. Terraces cascade down the gently sloping site beyond the loggia, providing spaces for dining, lounging, and swimming in a resort-like Mediterranean landscape. A large lap pool is positioned at the edge of the slope, drawing the eye towards the bay view. The design reflects the homeowners' preference for an outdoor lifestyle, creating a blueprint for comfortable and gracious indoor-outdoor living in Southern California. #MalibuHome #SpanishColonialRevival #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #Loggia #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign #OutdoorLivingSpaces

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

In the Las Lomas neighborhood of Mexico City, Taller Héctor Barroso has completed the Sierra Mimbres project, a multi-family dwelling designed to accommodate three brothers with distinct living preferences. The four-story building, constructed on an angled site measuring 15 by 17 meters, stands on the foundations of a previously demolished home. The architectural objective was to maximize the existing footprint while optimizing views of the surrounding landscape. The building's design features rectilinear volumes and incorporates a material palette of white concrete, steel, and wood, selected for their durability and low maintenance requirements. Extensive use of large glass panels ensures abundant natural light penetration and frames panoramic views. The Sierra Mimbres complex encompasses a total area of 1,355 square meters. The ground and first floors each house a unit with nearly identical layouts, comprising a public area, a master suite, and an additional bedroom. The third apartment occupies the entire second floor and extends into a glazed pavilion on the rooftop, which offers expansive 180-degree views of the city. The interiors are characterized by a modern yet inviting aesthetic, achieved through the application of earthy materials, soft textures, and direct engagement with the greenery outside. Stucco walls, laminated wood floors, and oak cabinetry contribute to a warm and relaxed living environment within each apartment. Throughout the structure, balconies and terraces are strategically integrated to provide residents with opportunities for outdoor relaxation and to enjoy the scenery. The ground level of the property is enveloped by lush vegetation and secured by a protective fence. This project builds upon Taller Héctor Barroso's prior works, such as the caramel-colored LC710 apartment complex in Colonia del Valle and the white concrete S House, which is notable for its arrangement around a shallow pool. The design philosophy consistently aims to create homes that are both functional and aesthetically integrated with their specific environmental contexts. Sierra Mimbres exemplifies contemporary residential architecture in Mexico City, joining other notable projects in the area that explore diverse material applications and design approaches. These include a board-marked concrete dwelling by PPAA Arquitectos, a home crafted from mud bricks and teak wood by DCPP, and a courtyard home by Taller Paralelo, which repurposed a formerly abandoned building. The careful consideration of resident needs, site constraints, and material choices underscores a commitment to creating distinctive and harmonious living spaces within the vibrant urban fabric of Mexico City. #ResidentialArchitecture #MexicoCity #MultiFamilyHousing #WhiteConcrete #ContemporaryDesign #TallerHectorBarroso #SustainableMaterials #UrbanLiving

Iñigo Berasategui and Ane Arce, partners from the Bilbao-based architecture firm AZAB, embarked on a gut renovation of their new condo, which featured a semicircular floor plan. The building, designed by Spanish architect Hilario Imaz, is a typical 1960s bourgeois housing unit, originally configured with a conventional series of rooms connected by a corridor. Despite its dated appearance, the couple recognized the apartment's potential, particularly its light-filled corner location and unique curved layout, which also posed a design challenge. The architects worked with a budget of 45,000 euros, including furniture and kitchen appliances, to transform the 969-square-foot flat. Their objective was to create a flexible, open space that embraced the building's curves. To achieve this, all interior walls were removed, resulting in one expansive open area. This decision was driven by an exploration of new ways to experience domestic space and was heavily inspired by Marcel Duchamp's Readymades, a concept that lent its name to the project: the Ready-Made Home. A key aspect of the renovation involved the reuse of existing materials and the incorporation of DIY techniques. For instance, Nero Marquina marble, originally used as kitchen flooring, was repurposed for the kitchen's edge and as a backsplash in the main bathroom. A former white marble kitchen countertop was upcycled into a table positioned behind the sofa, further illustrating the project's Duchampian and DIY ethos. Color played a crucial role in the redesign. Long, light-blue curtains, a bold pale-pink range hood, and a bright-yellow steel frame supporting the shelving system were strategically introduced. Berasategui explained that the fresh color palette was intended to highlight objects and soften the overall aesthetic, with a creamy tone for the background and a gradient of colors from pink to blue to draw attention to furniture and elements over the architecture. Even the front entrance features intentional patches of olive green paint, creating an unfinished look that raises questions about the definition of a completed home and suggests ongoing evolution. Additional design elements include birch plywood boards used for both kitchen cabinetry and living room flooring, reinforcing the DIY aesthetic. The expansive shelving system, suspended from a bright-yellow steel frame, reflects the couple's love for books. Berasategui also mentioned inspirations from “the atmosphere of the Factory and the first houses of Frank Gehry,” emphasizing a lighthearted, playful liberation that defines the home's spirit. The project successfully transformed a conventional 1960s apartment into a modern, flexible, and art-inspired living space. #ApartmentRenovation #OpenFloorPlan #BilbaoArchitecture #AZABArchitects #DuchampInspired #DIYDesign #RepurposedMaterials #ColorPalette #ModernLiving

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

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Avándaro in Valle de Bravo, Mexico, House A stands as a striking contemporary A-frame residence, masterfully designed by the Mexico City-based architectural firm Metodo in collaboration with Ingeniería Orca. The home's distinctive A-frame structure, which lends it its name, is integral to its design philosophy, aiming to immerse its inhabitants in the breathtaking lakeside environment. The architects prioritized a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, achieved through expansive walls of glass and strategically placed folding glazed doors. Spanning an impressive 3,523 square feet across three stories, House A was conceived as a versatile space, ideal for large gatherings and entertaining. The ground floor is a testament to this vision, featuring an open-plan layout that encompasses a living area, dining room, and kitchen. This level effortlessly transitions to an outdoor patio and a sprawling lawn through the folding glazed doors. Additionally, the ground floor includes a dedicated TV room, various service rooms, and a comfortable guest suite, ensuring ample space and convenience for residents and visitors alike. Access to the residence and its parking area is located on the second floor. This level houses the first master suite, offering privacy and comfort, alongside a children’s room. Ascending to the third floor reveals a second master suite, providing another luxurious retreat. This uppermost level also boasts a unique yoga terrace, designed for tranquility and offering elevated views, and a secondary children’s room, making the home adaptable to various family needs. The architectural team emphasized the integration of the A-frame structure into every space, ensuring it was not merely a design element but a coherent and functional part of the house. The construction employed a contemporary steel framework, harmoniously blended with traditional local building techniques and materials. This approach not only grounded the house in its regional context but also ensured its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Crucially, House A is oriented towards the north, a deliberate design choice made to maximize and frame the panoramic views of Lake Avándaro. To manage solar radiation effectively throughout the day, the design incorporates lateral balconies. These balconies, drawing inspiration from the decks of boats, allow for controlled sunlight exposure in the mornings and evenings, enhancing the comfort and ambiance within the home while maintaining an unobstructed connection to the natural surroundings. The careful selection of natural materials complements the modern steel and glass components, creating an interior that is both sophisticated and inviting. #AFrameHome #LakesideLiving #MexicanArchitecture #MetodoArchitecture #IngenieriaOrca #ContemporaryDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ValleDeBravo #SustainableMaterials

Sculptor Randy Polumbo has transformed the Orient Point Light, a 19th-century lighthouse situated in Plum Gut Harbor off Long Island, into an artist's residency known as Plum Gut Grotto. Polumbo acquired the historic structure through government websites five years prior, initially searching for old fuel tanks. His vision for the lighthouse is to provide a unique retreat for artists, a "micro philanthropy" where individuals can stay for several weeks to pursue creative endeavors, such as writing. Key to the lighthouse's operation is its complete reliance on off-grid power. Polumbo, an alumnus of Cooper Union and founder of the eco-construction company Plant, has equipped the structure with modern amenities including USB ports, electrical outlets, and appliances, all powered by a newly installed windmill and solar panels. This sustainable approach reflects his expertise in eco-friendly construction techniques, which he has also applied in projects for notable clients like Santiago Calatrava, Lee Mindel, and Maya Linn. The interior design of Plum Gut Grotto incorporates Polumbo's distinctive artistic style. It features a sparkling, galaxy-themed grotto with a large, built-in banquette described as a “topographical human habitat.” A striking illuminated, crystal-clad ball spins outside the structure, serving as a beacon. The bunk house, or grotto, is prominently featured, as is a newly built teak dining table capable of seating six guests. An atelier is furnished with a new teak writing desk designed for two occupants. The internal structure also includes a stair leading to the top of the lighthouse. Further artistic and functional elements include a porthole offering a view into the grotto's 20-foot-long banquette and a ceiling crafted from hand-hammered mirror-polished aircraft aluminum. A significant art piece, "The Oracle of Plum Gut," is a 4-foot-diameter spinning ball made from marine epoxy, crystals, silvered mirror, glass beads, and color-changing LEDs. The exterior features a deck, on which solar arrays are strategically installed to maximize energy capture. The project is supported by tax-deductible donations, highlighting its philanthropic aspect in fostering artistic creation in an environmentally conscious setting. Drone video footage of Plum Gut Grotto is also available, offering a comprehensive view of the converted lighthouse and its surroundings. #LighthouseConversion #ArtistResidency #GreenPowered #OffGridLiving #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #InteriorDesign #RandyPolumbo #EcoConstruction

This article details the design philosophy and execution behind a new West Palm Beach home, where the clients specifically requested a vibrant, non-white palette. Designer Cece Bowman of Kemble Interiors spearheaded the project, collaborating with Austin DePree of Northworks, who designed the home around a central courtyard. The design approach focused on creating a cohesive yet varied aesthetic, ensuring that while elements didn't explicitly "match," they harmonized to produce a unique tropical living space. The initial challenge for Bowman was to move away from traditional white walls, a common preference in design. The clients' clear directive for a fresh start, without a blank slate, led to a creative process where both the designer and clients pushed decorative boundaries. This involved bold choices like monkey sconces and navy tile in a teal-and-cream room, fostering a playful competition to explore design possibilities. The coordination required for such an intricate palette was extensive, with three full workdays dedicated solely to planning paints and wallcoverings. This meticulous attention to detail extended to every element, from ceilings to air-conditioning registers, ensuring a seamless integration of color and texture throughout the home. Architecturally, Austin DePree’s design oriented the house inward towards a central courtyard, minimizing transitional spaces and creating an open flow between rooms. This layout, combined with the distinctive interior design, offered a fresh take on South Florida living. Notable exterior choices included positioning the home away from the street and incorporating pale pink shutters, deviating from the typical blue found in the region. An unusual addition, a cricket table in the family room, further underscored the home's distinctive character. The article provides a room-by-room breakdown, highlighting key design features and product sources. The mudroom, the first space seen upon entering, boasts hidden appliances, Benjamin Moore's Blue Nose trim, St. Frank wallcovering, Newport Brass faucet, and Kohler sink. The sitting room showcases Schumacher chevron inlay on the ceiling, Del Mar Blue paint, a Worlds Away coffee table, Peter Fasano wallcovering, Hickory Chair and Creel and Gow chairs, and a Century Furniture sofa upholstered in Perennials fabric. The family room, serving as the home's central hub and an extension of the kitchen, features custom sofas and ottomans, a Mario Lopez Torres cricket table, a Samsung TV, a Palecek chair with Peter Fasano fabric, Midnight Sun light shades, and Schumacher wallcovering in the foyer. The kitchen conceals appliances behind painted paneling, with Artistic Frame counter stools, Weplight pendants with Radish Moon fabric, and Tiles of Ezra backsplash. The breakfast nook, designed for casual meals, utilizes Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, a Julie Neill chandelier, Design Within Reach chairs with Pierre Frey fabric, and a custom table. The bunk room maximizes a small space with Mirth Studio floor tile, Thibaut wallcovering, and Benjamin Moore's Cloud White and In Your Eyes paints. The girl's room, designed for longevity, features Sherwin-Williams Sprout paint, Pacific Designs International ceiling wallcovering, a Chelsea Textiles nightstand, Palecek sconces, Lisa Fine Textiles curtains, Matouk bedding, and a Coley Home bed. The primary bathroom is noted without specific details, while the cabana, designed for post-pool gatherings, incorporates Sabine Hill painted cement tile, Perennials performance fabric, Benjamin Moore's Marry Me paint on cabinets, Pacific Designs International wallcovering, and a vintage sofa. The patio and pool house complete the exterior, with the latter featuring shutters painted in Benjamin Moore's Pink Cloud, a subtle yet Floridian touch. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #WestPalmBeach #ColorPalette #KembleInteriors #HouseTour #ArchitecturalDesign #TropicalModern #CustomInteriors