The B.O.B. Sky Patio

Design in Motion has completed 'The Sky Clubhouse,' a compact facility located within a residential project in the suburbs of Bangkok, Thailand. This building serves the private housing development by providing a small gym on its upper floor and versatile indoor and outdoor spaces for various activities. Given the constrained site, the core architectural concept revolved around fostering open and continuous connections between interior and exterior areas, as well as between the lower and upper levels of the structure. A central element of the design is the intricate staircase, which seamlessly integrates circulation paths, floor plans, activity zones, and the surrounding landscape. This staircase guides visitors from the ground level to the gym on the upper floor, while cleverly concealing all building services within the space beneath its steps. The steps themselves are configured to divide the floor into multiple small platforms, each designed to accommodate a range of activities and functions. These platforms can be adapted for purposes such as relaxation zones, workspaces, or even an amphitheater suitable for small gatherings. To enhance the ambiance and ensure privacy for each platform, small gardens are strategically incorporated into the design. The architectural firm utilized standard Thai construction materials, including concrete for the structure, terrazzo for the flooring, and aluminum for the window frames. A distinctive feature of the clubhouse is its white aluminum strip façade, which envelops the entire ground floor interior space. This façade gradually transitions from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, effectively filtering natural light entering the building. Simultaneously, it establishes a visual link between the interior and the external landscape and gardens surrounding the site, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor environments. The project was completed in 2018, with photography by Soopakorn Srisakul. #Architecture #ClubhouseDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #GradientFacade #NaturalLight #StaircaseDesign #MultiPurposeSpace #ThailandArchitecture #DesignInMotion

The Aba Summer Rooftop Patio Party, scheduled for June 20th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offers an opportunity to celebrate the first day of summer on Aba’s rooftop in Chicago. This event, presented by Aba, is designed as a reception-style gathering, providing attendees with skyline views of Chicago. The party features a variety of mezcal and tequila libations, highlighting collaborations with Dos Hombres and Flecha Azul. Guests can expect a selection of culinary offerings including hummus, spreads, and passed appetizers. Entertainment for the evening will be provided by DJ Marvin Mentor, ensuring a lively atmosphere. A photo booth will be available for guests to capture memories, and tasting stations will offer opportunities to sample different spirits. A notable feature is an ice luge, providing a unique way to enjoy beverages. Additionally, the event includes a Sole Rider Hat Bar, where attendees can customize hats, and various giveaways will be distributed throughout the party. Entry into a raffle is also included with the ticket. Tickets for the ‘Summer Rooftop Patio Party’ are priced at $68.95, plus tax, with gratuity not included. Each ticket grants access to two signature cocktails, along with the passed and stationed appetizers, live DJ, and use of the photo booth. The tasting and hat stations are available for an additional cost. The event is set to take place outdoors on the patio. In the event of inclement weather, the party may be canceled, and a refund will be provided to ticket holders. The venue for the event is Aba, located at 302 N Green St 3rd Floor, Chicago, 60607. Further details and ticket purchases can be made through the Tock platform. Aba also maintains a presence on Facebook where additional information may be available. The event is categorized under 'Festivals, Fairs & Special Events' on the Choose Chicago events calendar. This celebration provides an option for those looking to engage in summer festivities in Chicago, combining food, drinks, music, and interactive experiences in a rooftop setting. #ChicagoEvents #RooftopParty #SummerCelebration #MezcalTequila #LiveDJ #FoodAndDrink #ChicagoSkyline

This blog post announces the 'Aba Summer Rooftop Patio Party' event, scheduled to take place on June 20th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Aba's rooftop patio in Chicago. The event is designed to celebrate the first day of summer, offering attendees an opportunity to enjoy views of the Chicago skyline. The party is a collaboration with Dos Hombres and Flecha Azul, focusing on mezcal and tequila libations. It will feature a reception-style setup with various activities and amenities. Attendees can expect a range of culinary and entertainment offerings. The event includes passed and stationed appetizers, such as hummus and other spreads. Beverages will include a variety of mezcal and tequila options, with each ticket granting access to two signature cocktails. A unique feature is an ice luge for pours, adding to the festive atmosphere. DJ Marvin Mentor is slated to provide live music, ensuring a lively environment throughout the party. For interactive fun, a photobooth will be available, and guests can visit the Sole Rider Hat Bar for a customizable hat experience, though hat stations are sold separately. Ticket information specifies a cost of $68.95 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity. This price covers two signature cocktails, appetizers, live DJ entertainment, photobooth access, and entry into a raffle. The event also offers tasting stations. Given its outdoor setting, the organizers note that the party is subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather, with full refunds provided. The venue, Aba, is located at 302 N Green St, 3rd Floor, Chicago, 60607. The blog post emphasizes the social aspect of the event, encouraging guests to mingle and enjoy the scenic rooftop setting. The collaboration with Dos Hombres and Flecha Azul highlights a focus on quality spirits, particularly mezcal and tequila, suggesting a curated beverage experience. The inclusion of a DJ, photobooth, and customizable hat bar aims to enhance the entertainment value, making it a comprehensive summer celebration. The event is categorized under 'Festivals, Fairs & Special Events' in the Choose Chicago events calendar, indicating its broader appeal as a summer activity in the city. The event targets individuals looking for a festive way to welcome summer, offering a blend of food, drink, music, and interactive experiences. The mention of the Chicago skyline views positions the event as a scenic urban gathering. The detailed information about ticket inclusions, weather contingencies, and location ensures clarity for potential attendees, allowing them to plan accordingly for this summer celebration. This party aims to provide a memorable start to the summer season with its diverse offerings and vibrant atmosphere. #ChicagoEvents #RooftopParty #SummerCelebration #MezcalTequila #LiveMusic #FoodAndDrink #ChicagoSkyline #Festival

This article discusses the transformation of an outdoor living space, focusing on design elements and furniture selection. The process begins with a blank slate, offering an opportunity to curate a distinct aesthetic. The first step involves selecting a large outdoor rug, which serves as an anchor for the seating arrangement and defines the overall area. The chosen rug features a unique, modern pattern with a subtle blend of black, beige, and cream, providing a versatile foundation for further design choices. Following the rug selection, the article emphasizes the importance of comfortable and stylish seating. The chosen seating arrangement includes an L-shaped sofa and a pair of swivel chairs, all featuring a dark wood frame complemented by beige cushions. This combination aims to provide ample seating for relaxation and entertainment while maintaining a cohesive look. The dark wood introduces an element of sophistication, contrasting with the lighter tones of the cushions and the rug. To enhance the seating area, a large coffee table is strategically placed at the center of the L-shaped sofa. This table is not only functional but also contributes to the aesthetic by offering a surface for drinks, snacks, and decorative items. Two side tables are positioned beside the swivel chairs, ensuring that every seat has convenient access to a surface. These tables are chosen to complement the main coffee table and the overall design scheme. Lighting plays a crucial role in creating ambiance in an outdoor living space, especially for evening use. The article highlights the inclusion of two lanterns on the coffee table, which provide a soft, inviting glow. Additionally, two floor lanterns are placed on either side of the L-shaped sofa, casting a warm light and further defining the boundaries of the seating area. The selection of lanterns contributes to a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Decorative accents are integral to personalizing the space and adding visual interest. The article mentions the use of throw pillows on the sofa and chairs, which introduce pops of color and texture. These pillows are carefully selected to harmonize with the rug and furniture, creating a balanced and appealing look. A large throw blanket is draped over a portion of the sofa, providing an extra layer of comfort and a touch of warmth, particularly for cooler evenings. Finally, the article addresses the integration of natural elements and additional functional features. Two large trees in planters are positioned to frame the outdoor living space, adding a touch of greenery and a sense of enclosure. These trees contribute to a natural and serene environment. A bar cart is also included in the design, offering a practical solution for outdoor entertaining. The cart can be used to serve beverages and snacks, making it a convenient addition for gatherings. The overall design seeks to combine comfort, style, and functionality to create a well-appointed outdoor living area. #OutdoorLivingSpace #HomeDesign #OutdoorFurniture #PatioDecor #ExteriorDesign #HomeStyling #OutdoorLighting #GardenDecor #OutdoorRugs

The article explores the distinctions between various outdoor living spaces, specifically lanais, porches, patios, and verandas, to help homeowners choose the most suitable option for their needs. A lanai is defined as a roofed porch, often screened or with one open wall, functioning as an indoor/outdoor hybrid room. These structures are designed to be usable for a larger portion of the year due to their partial enclosure, offering shade and protection from sun, insects, and debris. Originating from Hawaii, where the term means 'roofed porch,' lanais are particularly popular in warm climates and are frequently furnished like an indoor living space, complete with sofas, chairs, tables, and even televisions, extending the home's livable square footage for entertaining, relaxing, or working. Porches, in contrast, are covered areas attached to a home's entrance, which may or may not be screened. A key difference from a lanai is that a screened porch typically guards against insects but does not offer the same level of protection from rain or harsh weather. Lanais, often integrated into the house structure with walls or windows, can be closed off during inclement weather. Patios are paved, flat, open-air outdoor spaces used for entertaining, which can be covered by an extended roof or awning if near the house, or a lighter covering like a pergola if free-standing and unattached. Verandas are similar to porches but are generally larger and often wrap around the house, providing more space for seating and furniture. Several factors influence the choice between these structures. Homeowners seeking an optimal indoor/outdoor room for extended living space, particularly in mild climates, might consider a lanai or a screened porch. The desired location and flexibility for placement in the yard could lead to choosing a simple, free-standing patio. The number of seasons the space is intended for use is also a consideration; lanais and screened porches offer multi-seasonal utility. Available space around the home is crucial, especially for a wrap-around veranda. Finally, the home's architectural style plays a role: verandas complement Colonial, farmhouse, Victorian, and Craftsman bungalows, while covered patios or lanais often suit midcentury modern or ranch-style homes. Screened porches are versatile and fit well with most home styles. The article also addresses frequently asked questions regarding lanais. It clarifies that lanais are not always screened, and those with screens typically use aluminum or fiberglass frames that last 10 to 20 years. Adding a lanai can increase both the resale value and functional value of a home by providing an additional space for recreation and entertainment. The cost of adding a lanai varies, with a simple screened-in enclosure ranging from $1,200 to $3,000 for labor and materials (approximately $6 to $8 per square foot), while more elaborate indoor/outdoor hybrid lanais can incur significantly higher costs. #Lanai #Porch #Patio #Veranda #OutdoorLivingSpace #HomeDesign #OutdoorRooms #Architecture #InteriorDesign

Porches are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, evolving from traditional structures to essential extensions of a home's living space. Stephen Melman, a spokesperson for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), notes this trend, highlighting that the share of new homes incorporating porches increased from 42% in 1992 to 60% in 2008. This revival marks a return to a classic American architectural feature that had seen a decline in the 1950s with the advent of suburban living and air conditioning. Today, homeowners are increasingly seeking functional outdoor living areas, driving renewed interest in porches as a versatile solution. Lee Mackenzie, President of Mackenzie Design Build Inc. and a recipient of the 2010 Contractor of the Year Award, emphasizes the fundamental role porches play in fulfilling human needs for both protection and a sense of openness. He explains that porches offer a secure space while providing a broad view of the surroundings, a concept he refers to as "protection and prospect." Mackenzie's award-winning renovation of an Austin bungalow exemplifies this, where he meticulously recreated a front porch that had been previously removed. This redesigned porch integrates natural elements like river stone columns, glass mosaic caps, and timber framing that aligns with the existing roofline, featuring pegged mortise-and-tenon construction. Thoughtful lighting, including downlights in arches and along the entry staircase, enhances the porch's overall presence and appeal. Before embarking on porch construction or renovation, Mackenzie advises that the design must complement both the home's architectural style and the character of the surrounding neighborhood. He distinguishes between front porches, which foster a connection with the street and community, and back or side porches, which provide a private retreat and link to nature. Mackenzie advocates for designs that utilize materials inspired by the natural world and showcase exposed structural elements, contributing to an organic aesthetic. Several key elements contribute to a well-designed porch. Color choice for paint or stain can quickly refresh a porch, with considerations for sunlight exposure and coordination with the house's exterior hue. Solid stains offer full coverage, while semi-transparent options allow the natural wood grain to show through. For concrete porches, acid staining or acrylic coatings can update existing surfaces, while new concrete can be tinted and stamped to mimic natural stone or tile. Accents like porcelain tile, brick, or natural stone add a natural touch. These materials should have a matte, honed, or textured finish and be frost-resistant, especially if used for flooring, where they must be laid on a moisture-proof substructure and sealed if porous. Lighting is crucial for creating an inviting ambiance. Mackenzie stresses the importance of selecting fixtures that match the home's architectural style and are UL Wet-rated for outdoor exposure. While overhead lights provide general illumination, accent lighting, such as recessed lights, wall sconces, torchieres, and low-profile fixtures, diffuses light to prevent glare and shadows, enhancing the porch's visual appeal. Ceiling fans are also highlighted as important features, circulating fresh air and, when paired with a porch swing, offering a cooling effect in shaded areas. Finally, furniture plays a significant role in defining the porch's functionality and atmosphere. Mackenzie notes that the arrangement of furniture can dictate how the space is used; positioning furniture to face the street encourages community engagement, while tighter groupings foster intimacy. Given that many porches serve as entryways, maintaining clear pathways to doors is essential. For new porch constructions, Mackenzie recommends a minimum depth of 6 feet to accommodate gatherings and furniture like a small table and three to four chairs, ensuring the space is conducive to social interaction. Durable materials such as wood, plastic, rustproof metal, and fiberglass are ideal for outdoor furniture, offering both resilience to the elements and comfort. The overall selection of porch furnishings and accessories, whether traditional or contemporary, should seamlessly integrate with the home's exterior style, colors, and materials. Ultimately, Mackenzie believes a porch should be an integral design element, not merely an add-on, contributing to community betterment by serving as a gathering spot for family, friends, and neighbors. #PorchDesign #HomeImprovement #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalTrends #HomeRenovation #ExteriorDesign #ConstructionTips

This article explores 17 creative rooftop deck ideas, demonstrating how these elevated outdoor spaces can be transformed into functional and stylish areas for relaxation and entertainment, regardless of their size or location. From urban settings to scenic countryside homes, rooftop decks offer unique opportunities to enhance outdoor living with seating and picturesque views. The article begins by showcasing an "Urban Retreat" concept, featuring bright white latticework and climbing vines that provide privacy on a small rooftop deck. This design incorporates a pergola for partial shading and lightweight wrought-iron furniture. The latticework theme extends to a larger section of the deck, which is furnished with clean-lined pieces and a natural color palette. Infrared heaters ensure usability in cooler weather, and built-in speakers enhance the entertaining experience. Window boxes filled with herbs for cooking and an iron garden obelisk supporting climbing vines contribute to the lush foliage that connects different deck areas. The convenience of a natural gas connection allows for three-season grilling, with the grill easily movable to a kitchen porch in winter. A sleek dining set with weather-resistant cushions is presented as an ideal spot for dining, while pear trees in large containers add height and privacy, particularly in urban environments. Next, the article delves into creating a "Rooftop Oasis," exemplified by a sprawling deck covered with colorful greenery, designed to mimic a blooming meadow. Bare-root plants in a custom soil mix create a natural, layered look while adhering to load-bearing limits. Simple elements like a single umbrella and two chairs maintain a casual atmosphere. Another oasis features a secret garden aesthetic with heat and drought-resistant perennials, providing vibrant color. Low-growing plants line flagstone paths, and rock borders prevent soil erosion. An embedded irrigation system ensures the plants remain healthy. Informal seating areas, strategically set back from the roof edge for safety, are highlighted, often featuring unfussy flagstone patios. The "Modern Marvel" section introduces an industrial-chic steel pergola that defines an urban rooftop deck above a two-car garage. Brazilian ipe wood floors contrast with the metal structure, ensuring warmth. The pergola's cross pieces, fitted with wood lattice panels, create a ceiling-like effect while allowing ample light. Translucent glass panels offer wind protection without obstructing views. The decor includes opposing sofas and a coffee table for conversation, alongside salvaged art and striking sculptures, such as a metal lantern, to personalize the space. Low-maintenance greenery is achieved through wall-mounted planters made from repurposed ammunition boxes, equipped with drainage holes. These planters are filled with annuals and benefit from a built-in water line for easy care. Finally, the "Urban Oasis: Family-Friendly Hangout" section describes a garage-top deck accessible from the kitchen, designed for entertainment. It features a dining table for six, a built-in grill, and cabinets for storage, minimizing trips indoors. Large trees strategically block undesirable views. A wood pergola, privacy screens, and overflowing planter boxes create a layered, enclosed yet airy feel. Built-in benches with plush cushions, inspired by Burberry plaid patterns on privacy trellises, offer cozy reading nooks. Ceiling fans ensure comfort during warm weather. A fourth-level deck boasts a hot tub, grill, dining table, and city skyline views, with a built-in nook for firewood and tall plants in garden containers defining its edges. Sliding glass doors open to another upper deck, where a wood planter with discreet built-in lighting adds visual interest. Soft uplighting is used to illuminate the greenery without being overwhelming. The article concludes with a fourth-level deck featuring a brick wall and a geometric railing for sophistication and screening, with brick extending to a fireplace and ipe wood flooring. Plush seating areas are designed for enjoying panoramic views, completing the array of innovative rooftop deck possibilities. #RooftopDeck #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement #DeckDesign #UrbanGarden #OutdoorEntertaining #PrivacySolutions #LandscapeDesign

The provided content introduces a space wallpaper featuring Barnard 68 (B68), also known as "The Black Cloud." This celestial object is a classical dark globule located within the Milky Way band, notable for its compact, opaque appearance against a rich backdrop of stars. The article highlights that even with high-resolution imaging that captures numerous faint stars in the vicinity, not a single foreground star is visible directly through B68, underscoring its extreme opacity. Barnard 68 is approximately 500 light-years away in the constellation Ophiuchus. Its darkness is not due to an absence of stars, but rather to a dense cloud of cosmic dust and gas that effectively blocks visible light from more distant stars. These dark clouds are significant in astrophysics as they are considered prime locations for star formation. The immense density within these globules allows gravitational forces to overcome internal pressure, leading to the collapse of material and the eventual birth of new stars. The object was cataloged by American astronomer Edward E. Barnard between 1913 and 1927 in his comprehensive list of dark nebulae. Barnard's meticulous observations, initially using photographic plates, were crucial in identifying and categorizing these dark regions of the sky, which were often mistaken for starless voids. Modern astronomical techniques, particularly observations in infrared and radio wavelengths, can penetrate these dark clouds, revealing the hidden processes of star formation within. Infrared cameras, for example, can detect the heat signatures of protostars that are still enshrouded by dust. Studying objects like B68 provides astronomers with critical insights into the early stages of stellar evolution. The distinct, well-defined edge of Barnard 68 is particularly intriguing, suggesting a relatively uniform density within the cloud and a sharp transition to the less dense interstellar medium surrounding it. This characteristic makes it an excellent candidate for detailed studies of cloud collapse and fragmentation, which are fundamental to understanding how stars and planetary systems form. The sharp boundary also implies that the cloud is gravitationally stable to some extent, or that external pressures are uniformly compressing it. The wallpaper itself serves as a visual representation of this astronomical phenomenon, allowing enthusiasts and researchers to appreciate the beauty and scientific importance of dark nebulae. The image captured by the European Southern Observatory (ESO) provides a clear and striking view of B68, emphasizing its enigmatic nature. These images not only contribute to scientific research but also inspire public interest in astronomy and space exploration, making complex astrophysical concepts accessible through compelling visuals. In summary, the article presents B68 as a key example of a dark globule within our galaxy. Its impenetrable nature to visible light offers a unique opportunity to study the conditions necessary for star formation, as dense pockets of gas and dust accumulate and eventually collapse under their own gravity to give rise to new stellar systems. The inclusion of the image and the historical context of its discovery further enrich the appreciation of this cosmic phenomenon. #Barnard68 #DarkCloud #SpaceWallpaper #MilkyWay #StarFormation #DarkNebula #EdwardBarnard #Astrophysics #CosmicDust #ESO