comamala ismail clothes residence's concrete structure with split fir shingles in switzerland

The article presents Campodels House, a concrete structure in the Bündner mountains near Chur, Switzerland, designed by artists and architects Pascale Wiedemann and Daniel Mettler. This building serves as a sober second home, emphasizing a pared-down interior to draw attention to the site's natural light and spaciousness. Its unique design allows for two families to reside there, with an interlocking staircase ensuring privacy and minimal awareness of each other's presence. The location, nestled in a popular mountain region close to renowned destinations like Davos, Lenzerheide, St. Moritz, and Zurich, offers abundant leisure opportunities, leading the architects to intentionally keep the physical structure simple. This approach aligns with the 'Swiss Box' school of residential design, characterized by minimalist aesthetics and functional efficiency. The house features a pure and unadorned concrete shell. Its doors and window openings are framed with wood, exhibiting minimal detailing. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass walls provide access to recessed external balconies, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The interior color palette is largely restrained, with the exception of a polychromatic accent in the basement entry area and lacquered wardrobe doors in each apartment, adding subtle touches of vibrancy. Each of the two four-room apartments, one on the ground floor and the other on the first, is sparsely furnished. They incorporate minimally detailed Strato kitchens and expansive open spaces, creating a multi-aspect main living area that encourages a focus on the surrounding environment and the architectural details. The design maintains a long diagonal dimension by keeping the living space and kitchen open to the stairwell, promoting an open and connected feel within the apartments. Each apartment includes two bedrooms that branch off the main living area, offering a functional layout for its occupants. The deliberate simplicity in design, both in structure and interior finishes, aims to highlight the natural beauty of the location and the quality of light within the space. This architectural project exemplifies a modern residential approach that prioritizes integration with nature and a minimalist lifestyle, providing a serene retreat in a picturesque mountainous landscape. The choice of materials, particularly concrete and wood, contributes to the dwelling's robust yet refined aesthetic, harmonizing with its alpine surroundings. The overall intent is to create a living environment that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, serving as a testament to the effectiveness of restrained design in a natural setting. #ResidentialArchitecture #SwissDesign #ConcreteHouse #MinimalistInterior #AlpineLiving #PascaleWiedemann #DanielMettler #ChurSwitzerland #ArchitecturalFeatures

The article details the creation of a modern Swiss chalet in Celerina, a historic village in the Engadin region of the eastern Swiss Alps, for a Milan-based family. Emanuela Bozzi de Brabant and her husband, Matteo de Brabant, along with architect Matteo Tartufoli of M2P Studio, embarked on this project in an area where Bozzi de Brabant had spent her childhood. After Switzerland eased property ownership rules for foreigners in 2018, the family purchased an older house, eventually deciding to demolish and rebuild rather than renovate, as both options presented similar costs. The design philosophy for the new chalet was to blend traditional Engadin architectural elements with a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Bozzi de Brabant and Tartufoli conducted extensive research into local architecture, incorporating features like slightly sloped walls to manage snow accumulation and smaller windows, typical of the region's older structures, rather than expansive glass. They meticulously studied and measured traditional buildings to ensure the new chalet's proportions were authentic. A significant inspiration was architect Hans-Jörg Ruch, known for integrating modern sensibilities into Engadin farmhouses, aiming for a home that feels both ancient and contemporary. The construction process involved two years of ideation and three years of building, culminating in the chalet's completion in April 2022. The exterior, painted in a winter-white, features wooden slats on upper-floor windows, subtly referencing local stables. Wooden elements were used sparingly, differentiating it from typical mountain chalets. A traditional ornamental technique called sgraffito, involving decorative etchings framing the windows, was meticulously applied by skilled artisans, contributing significantly to the building's atmosphere. Inside, the approximately 3,400-square-foot chalet spans four levels. The entrance, a favorite of Bozzi de Brabant, features a unique risciu-stone floor, a material typically used outdoors in the Engadin, which she discovered and sourced herself. A skylight illuminates the foyer, leading to a personalized artwork of an Engadin map. A central, floating fireplace divides the living and dining rooms, designed by Tartufoli to create a sense of discovery within the home. The main floor also includes a custom matte-black Boffi kitchen and a sculptural fabric lamp over the dining table. The upper floors house five of the seven bedrooms and four of the six and a half bathrooms. The staircase design transitions from wood to metal mesh, allowing natural light from an overhead skylight to cascade down to the main floor, a recurring motif throughout the home, also seen in a bathroom shower. The lower levels are dedicated to leisure, featuring a sauna, a small indoor swimming pool, and a billiards room (dubbed the "dancing room"). A private forest-like garden shields the pool area, blooming in spring and summer. Materiality was a key focus, with natural elements like stone and custom-designed Spanish cedar wardrobes. The project involved close collaboration between the homeowners and M2P Studio, with Bozzi de Brabant taking an active role in sourcing interiors. Art and furnishings were chosen selectively to emphasize the chalet's architecture and richly painted, textured walls, which Bozzi de Brabant considers an artistic highlight. Notable additions include an antique dining room cabinet, paintings by Giovanni Frangi, and a vibrant blue wolf sculpture by Cracking Art in the garden. Iconic Ingo Maurer lamps were also integrated. The home is utilized year-round, accommodating family and friends, fulfilling the architect's goal of creating a beloved and functional space. #SwissChalet #ModernArchitecture #EngadinDesign #HomeDesign #MinimalistInteriors #LuxuryHomes #M2PStudio #MatteoTartufoli #EmanuelaBozziDeBrabant

Swiss architecture studio Frundgallina undertook a comprehensive renovation of a small, dilapidated chalet situated in the Swiss Jura Mountains, transforming it into an off-grid, modern home. Due to local regulations that prohibit invasive construction on the site, the architects maintained the original exterior dimensions of the structure. However, they implemented a revolutionary approach to the interior layout to maximize engagement with the natural surroundings. The interior was ingeniously divided into four sections, each approximately 86 square feet. These sections were deliberately set at varying heights to ensure seamless access from the exterior and to facilitate continuous views of the natural landscape from all areas within the chalet. This unique spatial arrangement resulted in a rich and varied interior, characterized by differing floor-to-ceiling heights. The design creates an effect of large steps spiraling around a central axis. Three of the four floors feature two distinct levels, culminating in a total of seven specific spaces within the compact structure. The varying heights and spatial divisions create a series of interconnected 'rooms' linked by thresholds of different sizes, allowing for an engaging, spiral stroll throughout the chalet. This configuration provides a playful and dynamic interior experience. The team at Frundgallina also designed the chalet to be 100 percent energy efficient, emphasizing sustainable practices in its overhaul. The exterior features a single sheet of folded stainless steel for the roof, which incorporates a gutter system for rainwater harvesting. Each of the chalet's four sides is punctuated by a large pitched-top door and a smaller pitched-top window. These gabled openings create the impression of eight smaller houses cut into the sides of the larger structure, hinting at the unusual and quirky interior arrangement. The construction explores several key architectural themes for Frundgallina, including simplicity and homogeneity of shapes, spatial richness and variety, uniformity and expressive singularity, and an overall sense of calmness, softness, and lightness derived from the formal composition. The chalet's design challenges traditional notions of entry, as it does not have a singular specific address or entrance. Instead, it benefits from four distinct entry points, allowing most rooms to be accessed directly from the outdoors and integrating the surrounding pastures as part of the spatial sequence. The chalet is built entirely from Jura forest Fir wood planks, which are vertically nailed to the framework and interior walls, with grooved and ridged versions used for the ceiling and floors. #SwissChalet #ChaletRenovation #OffGridLiving #ModernHomeDesign #Frundgallina #SustainableArchitecture #JuraMountains #InteriorDesign #SpatialVariety

Omer Arbel, a Canada-based artist and designer, has completed his first large-scale architectural design project, dubbed 75.9, a family home situated on a hayfield in the Canadian Pacific Northwest. The genesis of this architectural endeavor began with Arbel's experimental method of pouring concrete into a fabric stretched between lightweight plywood ribs. This innovative technique resulted in the creation of distinctive lily pad-shaped columns, which subsequently became the central design element for the entire residence. The clients, impressed by this experimental outcome, commissioned Arbel to integrate this unique column design throughout the home. The finished structure is designed to seamlessly extend from its natural surroundings. Pathways connecting different volumes of the house are covered with lush grass, effectively embedding the dwelling into a green landscape. Curved walls are strategically incorporated to create openings, providing access to the interior spaces and facilitating fluid movement between the various sections of the home. According to the design team, these fabric-formed columns evoke the appearance of archaeological ruins, serving as focal points around which the contemporary house is meticulously constructed. The living areas are comprised of four double-height volumes, predominantly featuring glass and cedar wood, which further blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. A unique botanical feature of the design involves planting magnolia trees atop the hollows of the columns on the roof, contributing to the home's organic integration with nature. Furthermore, the surrounding hayfield has been purposefully elevated to envelop the connecting pathways, ensuring the architecture harmonizes with the natural landscape. Inside, Arbel has cultivated a domestic narrative where the varying heights and positions of the concrete columns define distinct areas and offer diverse experiences within the residence. The living room, dining space, and kitchen are unified under one of these columns, creating a striking contrast between the raw texture of the columns and the smooth, polished concrete floors. The interior aesthetic is further enhanced by the inclusion of warm timber fixtures, an indoor garden inspired by Japanese design principles, and lighting fixtures supplied by Bocci, a company co-founded by Arbel. Project 75.9 represents a culmination of Arbel's decade-long material experimentation and serves as a significant milestone in his process-driven design philosophy. The house exemplifies his approach to employing ancient construction materials in a contemporary context, resulting in a home that is deeply integrated with its environment. Arbel notes that this project allowed him to apply his method of working with materials at the scale of an object to architecture, treating the concrete artifacts as if they were 'found form' or archaeological ruins. This approach involved a two-phase decision-making process: first, creating specific objects, and then, at a later stage, weaving them into the domestic space. #OmerArbel #FamilyHome #CanadianPacificNorthwest #ArchitecturalDesign #ConcreteColumns #FabricFormedConcrete #SustainableArchitecture #BiophilicDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

This article highlights the Kitzbühel Chalet, a modernist holiday rental situated at the base of the Kitzbühel Alps in Austria's Tyrol region. The chalet provides a peaceful escape, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings of forest and mountain. The interior design, meticulously curated by the owner in collaboration with design studio Holzrausch, focuses on a minimalist aesthetic. This approach emphasizes natural materials, particularly wood and stone, creating a harmonious and understated living space. The chalet's design prioritizes the breathtaking alpine views, featuring extensive banks of windows that frame the landscape. A wraparound balcony further enhances the connection to the outdoors, allowing guests to fully appreciate the scenery. The property offers comfortable accommodations, including three bedrooms, with a wood-paneled reading nook providing additional sleeping arrangements for two. Modern amenities are integrated for comfort and entertainment, such as a home cinema and a spa area complete with a sauna. Beyond its interior comforts, the Kitzbühel Chalet is strategically located for both winter and summer activities. It is a mere ten-minute drive from ski lifts, making it convenient for winter sports enthusiasts. During milder weather, the chalet serves as an ideal base for exploring a comprehensive network of hiking and cycling trails. The article positions the chalet as a perfect blend of modern design, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, available for rent starting at €1,500 per night through Welcome Beyond. #KitzbühelChalet #AlpineMinimalism #AustriaTravel #ModernistArchitecture #HolzrauschDesign #LuxuryChalet #TyrolRegion #HolidayRental

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

Objekt Architecten, a Belgian studio, has renovated Lamat House, a traditional home located in rural Wichelen, transforming its interior while preserving its classic red-brick exterior. The renovation addressed previous moisture damage that had led to the concealment of the home’s distinctive stepped gable ends. The studio's primary objective was to open up the living spaces to the picturesque surrounding countryside, an amenity previously underutilized due to the house's original configuration. This design philosophy centered on maximizing views within the existing structural and budgetary constraints, ensuring that the changes were primarily internal. The most significant architectural intervention involved the living area at the rear of the house. Objekt Architecten removed the existing ceiling, creating a double-height space that now accommodates a large dining area and a blue-tiled kitchen. The distinct functions of these two areas are not only delineated by contrasting material finishes but also visually separated by a substantial tropical planter, which is also clad in pale blue tiles, echoing the kitchen's aesthetic. This strategic removal of the ceiling also allowed for the installation of a large, double-height window, dramatically enhancing natural light penetration and offering expansive views of the garden and beyond. Above the reconfigured living space, a new mezzanine lounge has been introduced. This mezzanine is supported by slender columns of red steel and rests on an exposed concrete 'disc,' providing a contemporary visual element. From this elevated vantage point, residents can overlook the main living area and enjoy direct views of the garden through the double-height window. The original wooden roof structure of Lamat House was reinforced with steel supports that match the red steelwork used for the mezzanine columns. A red balustrade on the mezzanine and red-colored window frames further integrate this color palette throughout the renovated interior, creating a cohesive and dynamic aesthetic. According to architect Steven de Bolle, the choice of materials was guided by considerations of color, practicality, quality, and budget. The intent was to achieve a "surprising interior" without compromising the usability of the spaces. The design successfully marries modern industrial elements, such as exposed concrete and red steel, with the traditional character of the home, creating a distinctive contrast. The more private sections of the house, including the bedroom, bathroom, and study areas, are located in the more compartmentalized front section, maintaining a functional separation from the open-plan living spaces. Objekt Architecten, founded in Aalst in 2014 by Niels Van der Straeten, Dries Van Nieuwenbergh, and Mahir Yavas, has contributed to a growing trend of architectural renovations in Belgium that balance historical preservation with contemporary living requirements. This project is part of a broader context of Belgian architectural firms undertaking similar sensitive updates, such as Madam Architectuur’s renovation of a 1990s bungalow with large windows and red-painted timber cladding, Studio Okami’s low-lying dwelling with patterned brick walls, and Mamout’s minimalist extension to a Brussels townhouse. The photography for the project was provided by Ypsilon Business Photography. #BelgianHouses #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #Concrete #Steel #Mezzanine #Wichelen

DMAA (Delugan Meissl Associated Architects) has completed House F, a residential project situated in the gentle hilly landscape of Slovenia, designed to complement the existing architectural ensemble of the area. The residence features a distinctive architectural configuration defined by open angles and two intersecting saddle roofs, which are crucial in capturing and responding to the unique characteristics of the site. The exterior of House F is characterized by a facade that presents a closed and solid appearance towards the street, ensuring privacy and a sense of enclosure. In contrast, the interior spaces, particularly the central living and dining areas, are extensively glazed. This design choice allows these areas to open up generously, offering expansive views of the natural surroundings and fostering a strong connection between the indoors and the picturesque outdoor environment. The transition from the interior to the exterior is further enhanced by a multi-level terrace, which includes a partially sheltered front section, creating a seamless and harmonious flow for residents. The design strategy extends to the interior, where each room is conceived to provide diverse visual connections. These connections look outwards to the surrounding nature, integrating the landscape into the living experience, and also inwards, allowing views within the house itself. The interplay between the intersecting rooflines and the overall room height contributes a tangible dimension to the spatial experience, adding depth and character to the living areas. In terms of material selection, the design team at DMAA opted for a subtle palette to ensure that the house's unique geometry remains the focal point. This includes the use of white walls and polished screed floors, which create a minimalist and clean backdrop. The structural integrity of the house is based on a timber frame, which is entirely enveloped in a wooden lamella facade. This lamella facade extends upwards and over the saddle roofs, creating a cohesive and unified exterior aesthetic. The wooden lamellae are designed with varying depths, which imbues the facade with a sculptural quality. This thoughtful detailing results in a dynamic appearance that changes and evolves when viewed from different angles, adding visual interest and sophistication to the residence. The overall design of House F reflects a careful consideration of its site, a balance between privacy and openness, and a commitment to architectural forms that enhance the living experience through integrated natural views and nuanced material application. #DMAA #HouseF #SlovenianArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #SaddleRoofs #TimberFrame #WoodenLamellaFacade #ArchitecturalGeometry #IndoorOutdoorLiving

This article showcases 12 modern ski chalets across various locations, each embodying unique design elements and offering luxurious winter retreats. The collection begins with an Aspen, Colorado, ski chalet redesigned by Ghislaine Viñas and S2 Architects, which transformed a three-level, nearly 6,000-square-foot structure. The chalet's low-pitched hipped roof was replaced with a contemporary gabled one, extending to create deep eaves over a cantilevered balcony. Inspired by Aspen's early Swedish settlers, traditional Alpine architecture, and vintage ski-bum culture, the southern facade features expansive glass, offering views of the snowy landscape. Another Aspen property, a three-level rustic-chic ski chalet, underwent modernization by Rowland+Broughton. This 1990s stone-and-glass dwelling, known for its sensitive integration with mountain surroundings, received architectural interventions such as enlarged, view-enhancing windows and sliding doors, alongside meticulous editing of existing glazing mullions. In Baie-Saint-Paul, Canada, Chalet Bertha, designed by Perron, is situated on a hillside in the Laurentian Mountains. This 7,500-square-foot snow chalet features clean lines, inviting textures, and abundant natural light. Its design, inspired by Germanic mythology's Alpine goddess, aims to evoke a "winter spirit indoors" warmed by human connection. The three-level structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the Saint Lawrence River. The article then moves to Norway, where Snorre Stinessen Architecture conceived a ski chalet-style lodge in the Lyngen Alps. Originally conceptualized as a cabin, it evolved into a luxurious hospitality destination for guests seeking world-class skiing and glacier trekking. The design emphasizes a connection with the landscape through simple, earthy materials and floor-to-ceiling windows providing panoramic views. A rustic cabin in Breckenridge, Colorado, renovated by Amy Pigliacampo, blends old and new. This 1976-built A-frame ski chalet, located at an elevation of 11,000 feet, underwent a significant transformation. Pigliacampo painted the original pine paneling white, opened up the space with a new window above the kitchen, and incorporated materials like cane, caramel leather, creamy wool, and various wood tones to achieve a "1970s Modern Alpine Chalet" aesthetic. Studio Shoo designed a hotel in Kogalym, Western Siberia, for Ibis Styles. This 7,600-square-foot property, conceived as a winter wonderland, draws inspiration from the region's subarctic climate. The Moxy Banff, formerly the Voyager Inn, is a Canadian ski lodge that received a $30 million overhaul by Workshop/APD and Metafor. Built in 1964, the motor lodge was revitalized to combine the Moxy brand's playful personality, Banff's outdoor spirit, and its mid-century architectural roots. In Park City, Utah, a property by CLB Architects and Iluminus co-founder David Ostrander offers striking views of the Wasatch Mountains. The design utilizes a material palette established by the building's exterior, including Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof. A unique "pop-up perch" provides 360-degree views, reminiscent of forest-fire watchtowers. Loren Daye of Studio Love is Enough transformed a Hudson Valley country inn into the Alpine-inspired Little Cat Lodge, a 14-room ski hotel, tavern, and bar. The subtle makeover includes reclaimed mushroom box-clad walls, checkered daybeds, Isamu Noguchi lanterns, and custom maple furniture. In Truckee, California, a Martis Camp retreat designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and the Wiseman Group is a 12,200-square-foot, three-level ski residence positioned to take advantage of Pacific Crest Trail views. The west-facing facade is almost entirely glass, complemented by overlapping cedar screens for privacy. The article also highlights two mid-century buildings by Herbert Bayer at the Aspen Institute in Colorado. The 1973 Boettcher Building was renovated by Rowland+Broughton, while the three International Style "ski chalets" for the Aspen Meadows Resort had their interiors reinvented by Michael Suomi, who incorporated legacy furniture pieces referencing Bauhaus origins. Finally, a single-story glass house by ACDF Architecture in Quebec’s Lanaudière region emphasizes its natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows maximize natural light and offer sweeping views. The interior features minimal furniture, muted tones, polished concrete flooring, and wooden plank ceilings with gaps to soften direct sunlight, creating spaces for both connection and privacy for a young family. #SkiChalets #WinterGetaway #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #AlpineDesign #RusticChic #SustainableDesign #GlassHouses

Architects Marià Castelló and José Antonio Molina have designed a family home in Port de la Selva, a small Spanish town in Costa Brava. This dwelling is embedded into a steep, rocky site that slopes towards the seafront and features dark volcanic rock outcrops. The design strategy balances openness and privacy by integrating a lower level into the ground with projecting volumes that offer sea views. This approach also minimizes the house's visual impact, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the landscape and creating various patios with distinct lighting conditions. The house consists of two concrete volumes connected by a glazed corridor. The lower level, close to street level, establishes intimate connections with the outdoors through patios. These patios are framed by the natural rock formations of the site. In contrast, the upper level's two volumes are oriented to provide frontal views of the landscape and the sea horizon. This dual strategy of embedding and volumetric division reduces the apparent size of the intervention and enhances its integration with the surrounding environment. On the ground floor, a spacious main bedroom, a bathroom, and a living area open onto private patios. These private outdoor spaces are sheltered by the steep rock surfaces. The eastern volume on the upper level accommodates the children's bedrooms and a small swimming pool, while the western volume houses a kitchen, dining area, and an additional sleeping space. The glazed corridor, which also contains the vertical circulation, connects these two volumes. It offers expansive sea views on one side and a sheltered courtyard on the other, protected by the slope of the site. This glass nexus creates a wind-protected exterior space that maintains visual transparency towards the sea. The exterior of the house features a concrete finish, chosen to harmonize with the natural characteristics of the site. Gravel excavated from the site was used to finish the building's roof, further integrating it into its surroundings. Inside, the rooms are characterized by white walls complemented by oak detailing and custom-made wooden furniture. This material palette was selected to introduce warmth and harmony, offsetting the inherent qualities of the concrete. The exterior carpentry and certain interior claddings are also crafted from oak wood. Both Marià Castelló and José Antonio Molina lead their own architectural practices, Marià Castelló Architecture and José Antonio Molina Saiz, respectively. Their previous works include a geometric three-volume home on Formentera and an Ibizan retreat featuring glass corridors, open patios, and a pool. The construction management for this project was overseen by José Antonio Molina, Lorena Ruzafa, and Marià Castelló, with Joan Noguer as the building engineer, Think Enginyeria for structure engineering, and QS Enginyeria i Associats for facilities engineering. The design team included Lorena Ruzafa and Marga Ferrer, and Construccions Pòrfit served as the builder. The photography was conducted by Castelló, highlighting the architectural details and the house's relationship with its coastal setting. #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteHouse #CoastalDesign #SpanishArchitecture #GlazedCorridor #IntegratedLandscape #ModernHome #PortDeLaSelva

The "Bare House," a 2,152-square-foot residence located in Herzlia, a city north of Tel Aviv on the Mediterranean Coast, exemplifies innovative indoor-outdoor living. Designed by architects Tamar Jacobs and Oshri Yaniv, founders of Jacob-Yaniv Architects, for their own family, the house prioritizes open space and fluidity, aiming to integrate the surrounding fruit trees into the living experience. Unlike traditional designs that rely on large glass windows for seamless transitions, this home features a distinctive architectural approach where the roof is lifted off the walls, creating an opening along the perimeter. This design choice establishes a continuous connection between the interior and exterior environments, allowing the inhabitants to enjoy glimpses of the outside and benefit from natural light and breezes. The architects' primary inspiration stemmed from the lush green surroundings, the availability of ideal daylight, and the western breeze originating from the nearby Mediterranean Sea. These elements were foundational in shaping the house's layout and material choices. The design incorporates ceiling beams that physically separate the roof from the walls, further enhancing the open-air feel. A clerestory window encircles the entire perimeter, providing constant visual access to the exterior landscape. To maintain a sense of continuity and aesthetic coherence, exposed concrete breeze blocks and a concrete roof are utilized throughout the structure. The Bare House is thoughtfully organized into three distinct functional areas. One section is dedicated to the children, another to the parents, and the central space serves as the main living room. This central living area is strategically positioned to overlook a decked patio and the garden, effectively blurring the lines between inside and out. The architects envisioned the lounge as functioning like a courtyard—an enclosed garden that extends the outdoor environment into the very heart of the house. This design philosophy creates an immersive experience, allowing residents to feel deeply connected to nature while enjoying the comforts of their home. The use of concrete as a primary material not only contributes to the home's modern aesthetic but also reinforces the sense of continuity and integration with its surroundings. The deliberate choice to lift the roof and incorporate clerestory windows, rather than conventional large panes of glass, represents a unique and effective strategy for achieving a true indoor-outdoor living experience. This design maximizes natural ventilation and light, while also offering a distinctive architectural expression that responds directly to the site's environmental advantages. The Bare House stands as a testament to how architectural innovation can create a harmonious relationship between built structures and their natural contexts, offering a serene and interconnected living space. #ConcreteHouse #IndoorOutdoorLiving #HerzliaArchitecture #JacobsYanivArchitects #ModernDesign #SustainableLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation #ResidentialArchitecture

This article presents a virtual tour of 16 distinct ski cabins, each offering a unique design approach and integration with its natural surroundings. The selection highlights diverse architectural styles, from traditional chalets to modern, energy-efficient structures, across various snowy landscapes in North America and Europe. The first featured cabin, Nooq House in Whitefish, Montana, designed by Montana Creative architecture + design, showcases Scandinavian influences with its gabled sections, suspended fireplace, cathedral ceilings, and expansive windows that frame the Rocky Mountains. Owners Alex Strohl and Andrea Dabene offer it for rent while working on another project. Following this, the Alpine Noir chalet in Mount Hood, Oregon, conceived by Casework, Keystone Architecture Planning & Project Management, and Ethan Beck Homes, draws inspiration from Amsterdam canal houses with its tall, skinny silhouette and custom soft black facade. The interior features a reverse layout with the living space at the top, emphasizing a "gezellig" (cozy) atmosphere with a black brick fireplace, fur throws, and a bespoke floral sectional. In Andermatt, Switzerland, Nossenhaus, a 17th-century cottage, underwent a revival by Jonathan Tuckey Design and Ruedi Kreienbühl. The renovation removed newer additions, restoring its original character while incorporating modern elements like an energy-efficient wood-tiled roof and larch planking. The Gilbert House near Whistler and Blackcomb ski areas in British Columbia, by Evoke International Design, features a vertical layout on a steep site, clad in concrete and matte black cedar. Its bright interiors, with pale oak planks, direct focus to the forest views through floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a cantilevered upper floor with a terrace. La Cabin Ride & Sleep, an A-Frame in Lac-Beauport, Québec, designed by Marie-Catherine P. Émond of M4 Architecture, is a 256-square-foot structure built by Nick Dignard. It features abundant natural light, window openings on the roof, and custom-built furniture. Next, the Skigard Hytte near Lillehammer, Norway, by Mork Ulnes Architects, is an unconventional log cabin using "skigard" split-rail construction. It is raised on columns, has a sod and grass roof, an oculus skylight, and a pine interior. The Lookout House near Lake Tahoe, California, by Faulkner Architects, is a contemporary cabin on a steep slope. It boasts a fire-resistant steel plate roof, insulated concrete walls, radiant-heated basalt floors, and a red-tinted glass column, creating a modern aesthetic with an American Southwest influence. Another British Columbia entry is the Solo House, an off-grid Passive House designed by Perkins & Will, intended as a pilot for an eco-friendly alpine settlement. It incorporates a steel roof, solar panels, wool-insulated walls, and locally harvested Douglas fir interiors. The Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel in Monthey, Switzerland, by Montalba Architects, offers prefabricated larch-clad chalets alongside geodesic domes. These low-impact structures are energy self-sufficient, featuring polished concrete flooring and distinct day and night zones. The Little Black House in Fayston, Vermont, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann Architecture + Design, is a compact 1,120-square-foot cabin near Sugarbush. Its black-stained exterior contrasts with a stripped-down interior of white walls and pale wood floors, utilizing local ash wood and large windows. In Québec, the Poisson Blanc cabin by Naturehumaine Architects is a monochrome, compact structure embedded on a slope, with white walls and ceilings and maple veneer, raw concrete, and ceramic tile accents. The Ejford Cabin on Hallvardøy Island, Norway, by Snorre Stinessen Architecture, features triple-glazed glass walls, capitalizing on passive solar conditions and thick insulation. It comprises two volumes, one for living and one for sleeping and a sauna, offering views of the fjord and mountains. The Z House in Camporosso, Italy, by GEZA, is a holiday home on a steep hilltop, featuring two interconnected concrete and wood-screened gable volumes that step down the slope, blending with the alpine vernacular. The interior utilizes Serizzo white granite, dark gray-painted European oak, and Swiss pine. A remodeled 1960s Swiss chalet by Frundgallina in the Swiss Jura Mountains is a 100% energy-efficient cabin with vertically laid fir planks and a folded stainless steel roof, characterized by four distinct entrances and integrating the outdoors. Finally, the Lake Cottage in Ontario, Canada, by UUFIE Architects, is a reinterpreted tree house with a steeply pitched, charred cedar-clad structure and a black steel roof. It features whimsical interior elements like a wood-burning fireplace with a house-shaped surround, a maple log staircase, and partially mirrored glass walls for camouflage and expansive views. #SkiCabins #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #MountainHomes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #WinterRetreats #PrefabHomes #PassiveHouse

This article delves into the holiday home of prominent gallerists Kadee Robbins, director of the Michael Werner Gallery in London, and Stefan Ratibor, director of the Gagosian in London. Their residence is a 17th-century baroque manor in the Danube valley, about half an hour from Vienna, Austria. The property, initially found and purchased by Ratibor in 2005, became a shared project and a labor of love after he and Robbins began their relationship. The manor was once owned by an "aged and reclusive opera singer" and had fallen into disrepair, described as being hidden in a forest and overrun with flora. With the assistance of architect Annabelle Selldorf, a friend of the couple known for her work on projects like the Frick Collection extension in New York, the manor underwent a comprehensive restoration. The renovation focused on removing clutter both inside and outside the structure and simplifying its layout to create a more relaxed and airy living space. The goal was to transform the historical property into a comfortable family home, suitable for the couple and their three young children. The family typically uses the home for holidays during Christmas, Easter, and a summer period. A central feature of the home is its extensive collection of contemporary art, carefully curated by Robbins and Ratibor. The collection includes pieces by artists they have collaborated with, befriended, or admired, such as Ed Ruscha, Peter Doig, Franz West, and Jeff Koons. Robbins emphasizes that this collection was assembled organically over time, rather than through a predefined grand plan. Despite the high value of the artworks, she maintains a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that the house is a living space for children. She notes that while the pieces are lovingly cared for, the family remains philosophical about potential wear and tear, joking about a Carsten Höller yellow rhino sculpture in the upstairs hall that has likely been sat upon by the children. The article highlights several specific artworks and design elements within the home. For instance, the master bedroom features a picture by American artist Aaron Young, created from motorcyclists driving across primed panels, leaving skid marks. This room also contains 1960s Italian chairs and a carpet from Azerbaijan. A photograph by Douglas Gordon is flanked by baroque chairs inherited from Ratibor’s great-aunt, with a 1960s French lamp. A neon artwork by Tracey Emin is displayed above a 19th-century sofa, which is a Ratibor family heirloom. The guest bedroom showcases works by Glenn Brown and Ed Ruscha, with an Iranian carpet and a chocolate velvet chaise longue from Robbins's previous life in New York. The first-floor sitting room includes sofas by 20th-century Italian designer Guglielmo Ulrich, a mirror by Jeff Koons, a sculpture by Franz West, and a painting by Adam McEwen, all set against an original mantelpiece. In the garden, there is a sculpture by the late Franz West, an Austrian artist and close friend of the owners. These details illustrate the blend of historical architecture, contemporary art, and personal touches that define the couple's unique holiday home. #HolidayHome #BaroqueManor #ContemporaryArt #InteriorDesign #AustrianArchitecture #ArtCollection #GalleristHome #AnnabelleSelldorf #FamilyHome

Areal Architecten, a Belgian studio, has designed and implemented 'Town house EM,' a contemporary brick and concrete townhouse situated within a residential streetscape in Mechelen, a city located near Antwerp. The project aims to seamlessly integrate the modern structure into its traditional surroundings while maintaining a distinct architectural identity. The exterior features a brick facade that is subtly sliced and faceted, enabling the otherwise minimalist volume to relate to and harmonize with the existing neighboring buildings. This design approach seeks a balance between blending in and standing out within the urban fabric. Upon entering the house, visitors are greeted by a porte-cochère rather than a direct front door onto the street, offering a unique transition space. Internally, the three floors of the townhouse are visually connected by a significant void that extends from the ground floor upwards, crowned by a skylight. This architectural feature serves to flood the stairwell and lower levels with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the dwelling. This central void acts as an internal 'canyon,' effectively separating the open-plan living areas from the more private bedrooms. Thomas Cols of Areal Architecten describes the residence as a single-family row house that, despite its urban setting, offers remarkable views and expansive voids. He emphasizes the thoughtful combination of raw and refined materials used throughout the project, contributing to its distinctive character. The interior material palette is intentionally restrained, contributing to a modern and sophisticated aesthetic. It features ribbed concrete soffits, exposed brick walls, and a combination of timber and concrete flooring. Large internal single-pane windows further enhance the sense of openness and connectivity between spaces. The staircase is a notable design element, crafted from white-painted steel with blade-like treads, adding a sculptural quality to the interior. Functional spaces are thoughtfully distributed across the floors. The living quarters and kitchen are equipped with fitted timber-fronted storage units, providing both practicality and a consistent aesthetic. The open-plan first floor hosts a living room that extends onto a terrace, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The kitchen is located on the ground floor, facilitating easy access and functionality. A difference in level on the ground floor manages the transition between the street and the rear of the house, which leads to a longitudinal garden. This design detail creates a smooth progression from the public street environment to the private outdoor space. The architects highlight that the traditional spaces of a house are synthesized into a single organic space, characterized by raw finishes such as the concrete grid on the ceiling and the prominent interior brick wall. Through precise openings and the living room terrace, the integration of inside and outside environments is a key design principle, fostering a continuous and expansive living experience within this urban dwelling. #Townhouse #ArealArchitecten #MechelenArchitecture #BrickFacade #ConcreteConstruction #ModernResidential #InternalVoid #SkylightDesign #OpenPlanLiving

The Patio House, designed by Solum Studio, is a residential project located in Sicily, Italy, specifically in the province of Syracuse. The house is positioned on a narrow strip of land that extends towards the sea, concluding on a cliff, and is designed to fully occupy the buildable area of the plot. Its architectural concept focuses on creating an introverted oasis that strategically opens up to embrace the seascape through its living areas. The design of the Patio House is characterized by its longitudinal development, running from the access road towards the sea. This layout allows for a sequential experience, starting from an enclosed, private arrival point and gradually transitioning to expansive views of the sea. The introverted nature of the initial spaces provides a sense of seclusion and privacy, which then gives way to an open and airy living area that acts as a direct interface with the natural coastal environment. Key architectural elements and materials used in the project include concrete, which contributes to the structural integrity and aesthetic of the building. The choice of materials and the overall design aim to create a harmonious balance between robust construction and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The project's emphasis on a patio or courtyard structure suggests an interior-focused design that likely incorporates natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience while maintaining privacy from external views, except for the deliberate openings towards the sea. The project was completed in 2025 and covers an area of 400 square meters. The architectural team involved Mattia Agates, Lorenzo Campagna, Filippo Gismondi, and Alessandro Loda from Solum Studio, with Gian Mario Vecchiato as a collaborator. Nicolò Panzeri is credited for the photography, capturing the essence of the house and its relationship with the Sicilian landscape. Manufacturers such as Carl Hansen, Fornace Sant'Anselmo, Ideal Work, Sicilianagessi, and dnd contributed to various aspects of the house, indicating a selection of quality materials and furnishings. This residential architecture project is categorized under houses and highlights contemporary design principles tailored to its unique coastal site. The strategic placement and orientation of the house demonstrate an understanding of both environmental factors and the desire to create a private yet visually connected living space. The use of a patio and the intentional opening towards the sea suggest a thoughtful approach to balancing indoor and outdoor living, privacy, and engagement with the natural surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Avola #Italy #SolumStudio #Concrete #CoastalDesign #PatioHouse

Grupo Boreal, an architecture studio based in Córdoba, has completed Casa Elisa, a 170-square-metre residence located in the mountainous region of San Clemente, southwest of Córdoba, Argentina. The house features a striking bright white exterior, drawing inspiration from Ibizan architecture with its white walls, wavy plaster, and rounded edges. The studio strategically placed Casa Elisa on the highest point of a seven-hectare plot, which encompasses mountain ranges, native forest, and a stream, to maximize the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This elevated position ensures that the main rooms of the house benefit from these scenic vistas. The design prioritizes natural light, especially during winter, through a U-shaped layout that embraces a north-facing patio. This outdoor area is also sheltered by a roof of colonial clay tiles, providing essential shade in the summer months. The single-story residence includes an external staircase, crafted from herringbone-patterned red brick, leading to a roof terrace. This red brick detailing extends to the outdoor flooring and the accessible roof deck, where tiles in a similar reddish hue enhance the Mediterranean aesthetic. The roof also integrates photovoltaic panels and a solar hot water tank, reflecting an environmentally conscious approach to energy generation for the home. Inside, Casa Elisa maintains a rustic, farmhouse-inspired ambiance with white walls and ceilings. Architectural details include arched wood doorways and openings that connect different rooms, along with exposed tree trunk-like beams across the ceilings. Wooden floors are used throughout the interior, complementing the natural material palette. The kitchen features wooden cabinets and an island topped with a curved stone counter. The bathroom incorporates a wooden sink, white-painted brick walls, and stone flooring. Casa Elisa is a testament to Grupo Boreal's vision of blending Mediterranean influences with the rugged Argentinian landscape, creating a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally integrated with its environment. The project highlights a commitment to sustainable living through its energy solutions and thoughtful consideration of natural light and views. The design successfully marries traditional architectural elements with modern living requirements, offering a serene and picturesque retreat. #CasaElisa #GrupoBoreal #ArgentinianArchitecture #IbizanInfluence #WhiteHouses #ResidentialDesign #SustainableLiving #MountainHome #RusticModern

This article introduces Swisspearl's 'Fiber Cement Colorline - Avera' panels, highlighting their application in facade cladding and interior design for various building types including residential, corporate, commercial, and public structures. The Avera panels are characterized by their vivid, through-colored fiber cement appearance and a dynamic production process that results in a natural texture. A transparent coating further enhances the vibrant surface and diverse color tones, while a standard high-resistance (HR) coating provides superior scratch resistance and protection against heavy soiling and graffiti. The panels are made from a blend of cement, wood pulp, reinforcing fibers, and water. This composition allows for a delicate surface texture, a natural aesthetic, and a consistent full-body color. Swisspearl offers an extensive range of surface options, joint and fastening solutions, and flexible panel formats within a maximum usable size of 3050 x 1250mm and a thickness of 8mm. These panels can be cut to specific requirements, offering design versatility. Installation options range from flat layer to lapped coverings, with choices for face or concealed fastening. Comprehensive guidelines for installation are provided in the Swisspearl Design & Installation Manual. The product boasts a fire classification of A2-s1, d0, ensuring safety, and an Environmental Product Declaration in accordance with ISO 14025 and EN 15804, indicating its environmental performance. Furthermore, Swisspearl backs the Avera panels with a 20-year guarantee, reflecting confidence in their durability and quality. The Avera line is available in 9 standard colors, providing architects and designers with a palette to achieve diverse aesthetic outcomes. The material's inherent properties, such as its robust composition and protective coating, contribute to its longevity and low maintenance requirements, making it a practical choice for various architectural projects. The versatility in application, from exterior facades to interior surfaces, underscores its adaptability in modern construction. The commitment to environmental standards and product longevity reinforces Swisspearl's dedication to sustainable and high-quality building materials. #FiberCement #FacadeCladding #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalMaterials #BuildingProducts #Swisspearl #AveraFinish #ConstructionMaterials #SustainableBuilding

The Swisspearl Interior fiber cement panels offer a versatile solution for interior ceilings and wall cladding, suitable for a wide range of applications including residential, corporate, commercial, educational, and public buildings. These panels are distinguished by their high-quality fiber cement material, which provides a delicate surface texture and a carefully matched full-body color. This inherent characteristic gives Swisspearl panels a unique and natural appearance, coupled with a pleasant tactile quality. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the panels possess beneficial physical properties that contribute to their longevity, reliability, and ease of maintenance. They are manufactured from regenerative raw materials, emphasizing sustainability in their production. A key functional advantage of Swisspearl Interior panels is their sound-absorbent capability, reducing noise by approximately 10 decibels. This acoustic performance can be further enhanced through the integration of additional sound-absorbing mats, making them an effective choice for improving room acoustics in various settings. Furthermore, these panels are rot-resistant and incombustible, contributing to the safety and durability of interior spaces. Swisspearl offers an extensive range of design options, including a selection of over 70 colors to meet diverse aesthetic requirements. Detailed information on available sizes, colors, and installation methods can be found in the comprehensive product brochures and delivery programs provided by Swisspearl. The installation process accommodates various styles, from flat layer to lapped coverings, with options for face or concealed fastening. The brand provides a 20-year guarantee on their fiber cement interior panels, underscoring their commitment to quality and durability. The application of Swisspearl Interior panels extends to both walls and interior surfaces, presented in a format of slabs, plates, or panels. The product is featured in various architectural projects, illustrating its versatility and aesthetic integration. Notable examples include the Human Fish Pool in the Postojna Cave by Studio Stratum, the Israel Museum by James Carpenter Design Associates + Efrat Kowalsky Architects + Asaf Lerman, and The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts by SPF: architects. These projects demonstrate the successful incorporation of Swisspearl panels in diverse architectural contexts, from cultural institutions to public performance spaces. The availability of product files such as brochures and delivery programs facilitates informed decision-making for architects, designers, and builders. These documents outline technical specifications, color palettes, and installation guidelines. By providing detailed resources, Swisspearl ensures that professionals have the necessary information to effectively integrate these fiber cement panels into their projects, leveraging their aesthetic and functional benefits. #FiberCement #InteriorDesign #WallCladding #CeilingCladding #AcousticPanels #SustainableMaterials #ArchitecturalMaterials #BuildingProducts

Muka Arquitectura has completed the Fuensanta House, a residential project in Ciudad Real, Spain. This unique dwelling serves as the inaugural structure in a largely undeveloped urban area, addressing the uncertainty of future adjacent constructions by adopting a fortress-like design. The house features ribbed concrete walls, distinguished by a corduroy-like texture, and is crowned with a pitched roof. Two substantial abutments extend above the main structure, contributing to its robust appearance. The exterior presents a small, recessed doorway within its brown concrete facade, emphasizing its self-contained nature. The architects chose this robust, isolated design due to the lack of existing architectural context or typological references in the surrounding unbuilt plots. The project's full integration and contextual meaning are anticipated to evolve as neighboring plots are developed, positioning the Fuensanta House as the initial element in the urban development of Ciudad Real. Three slender glass boxes vertically span the facade, accommodating a bathroom, a bar, and a staircase. These translucent elements are veiled with white frosted glass, featuring a ridged texture that visually complements the concrete, while simultaneously allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces. The design intentionally conceals any overt domestic indicators, reinforcing the structure's singular and preparatory role within the evolving urban landscape. Internally, a double-height void centrally bisects the building. On one side of this void, a narrow galley kitchen and an adjoining dining room are situated. Below these, at the basement level, a toilet and a storage room are located. The opposing side of the void houses a reception room, a garage, and a utility room. The kitchen benefits from porthole skylights integrated into the concrete ceiling and wall, which project distinct light patterns onto the interior surfaces. A suspended corridor traverses the atrium, connecting the master bedroom, which is situated within the larger of the two end blocks, to a sauna located in the smaller block. The elevated walkway features steel base plates with slits, allowing light to filter through, and is secured to the ceiling by a series of metal cables. The interaction of sunlight entering through the glass bays with the textured concrete walls creates dynamic patterns of light and shadow, highlighting the material's rich characteristics. Behind the elevated walkway, four concrete cuboids are arranged between the two end blocks. Two of these cuboids house double-height bedrooms, characterized by wood-paneled interiors designed to enhance the vertical dimension. The remaining two cuboids are two-storey spaces, each containing a bathroom on the ground level and a study above, and are connected to the adjacent bedrooms. Curved metal rungs provide access to glass-fronted perches that project from each study. Each bedroom cubicle also incorporates a strip of glazing on its back wall for additional light and features a trio of teardrop-shaped bulbs. The external surfaces of the four volumes are illuminated by up-lights, emphasizing the textural details, crevices, and chips in the concrete, with low-consumption LEDs integrated into continuous strips within the concrete cracks for artificial lighting. #MukaArquitectura #FuensantaHouse #ConcreteArchitecture #SpanishArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #UrbanDevelopment #CiudadReal #TexturedConcrete