Hotel Ush?aia Low-Tech Vertical Garden

A luxurious penthouse at 94 Thompson Street in Soho, listed for $10.9 million, distinguishes itself with a unique open-air lightwell transformed into a zen garden, complete with a mature cherry tree, acting as the central feature of the residence. Designed by architects Nico Rensch and Victoria Blau, this three-bedroom co-op spans multiple levels and boasts extensive outdoor spaces, including two terraces on the second floor and a large roof deck equipped with an outdoor kitchen. Upon entering, a custom built-in bookcase serves as a subtle divider between the dining area and the stairway. The dining space features a built-in, banquet-style table, extending over 15 feet, which can be discreetly hidden. The focal point of the interior is the sunken great room, characterized by its impressive 23-foot ceilings and double-height windows. This grand living area is strategically positioned adjacent to the zen garden, offering a seamless connection to nature. It includes a linear gas fireplace, custom built-in seating, integrated lighting, and a home theater system. The kitchen, designed as a "hideaway" space, features hand-rubbed Larch wood millwork cabinetry, honed volcanic basalt stone slab floors, and stainless steel countertops. It is outfitted with high-end appliances, including a Kuppersbusch stovetop and additional appliances from Bosch and Dacor. The private quarters, comprising three bedrooms, are situated on the opposite side of the lightwell, ensuring tranquility and separation from the main living areas. The master bedroom is notable for its sunken bed design and a full wall of glass that provides views of the zen garden. This suite also includes a spacious walk-in closet with a custom storage system and an en-suite bathroom. The master bathroom is appointed with a step-down tub/shower, a rain shower head, radiant heated floors, and a modern trough sink, offering a spa-like experience. The second floor of the penthouse is dedicated to a large home office, which overlooks the great room below, maintaining a connection to the primary living space. This level is flanked by two landscaped terraces, providing additional private outdoor retreats. The roof deck represents the pinnacle of outdoor living, offering expansive views and a convenient overhead cover. It is fully equipped with an outdoor kitchen, featuring a gas-powered grill, refrigerator, and sink, making it ideal for entertaining. The building itself, formerly a loft, is known as the Soho Gallery Building. Constructed in 1900, it was converted into nine co-op residences in 2002, blending historical architecture with modern luxury living. #SohoPenthouse #LuxuryRealEstate #ZenGarden #OutdoorSpace #ArchitecturalDesign #NewYorkCity #CoopApartment #ModernLiving #CustomInteriors

This blog post highlights a penthouse apartment located at 217 2nd Avenue in the East Village, which was recently put on the market for $2.8 million. The apartment is a full-floor condo that blends old-world New York charm with rustic design elements. This blend is evident in features such as wide plank pine floors, vintage oak cabinets, and a 'lovingly worn' marble sink. The entrance leads into an industrial-chic commercial-grade kitchen, which features a skylight and a spiral staircase. This kitchen area seamlessly transitions into a spacious dining area. The dining area is characterized by exposed brick walls and aged built-in storage, adding to the apartment's rustic appeal. Pocket doors with etched glass separate the dining room from the living room, which is distinguished by oversized windows, crown molding, and a marble-clad fireplace. The penthouse includes two bedrooms, with a clear distinction in size and amenities between them. The master bedroom offers a wall of closets, abundant natural light, and a second wood-burning fireplace, emphasizing comfort and luxury. Conveniently located just outside the master bedroom are a spa bath and a laundry room, enhancing its functionality. In contrast, the second bedroom is described as small and is situated on the opposite side of the apartment, adjacent to the living room and away from the home's second bathroom, suggesting a less private or less comfortable arrangement compared to the master. A unique feature of this penthouse is its rooftop garden, accessed via the spiral staircase in the kitchen. This rooftop space is described as lush, filled with mature plants, and notably includes a vegetable garden. The presence of a private outdoor space, especially a vegetable garden, is a significant amenity for an urban dwelling. The apartment's location is also highlighted, being only blocks away from Union Square, which offers a vibrant city experience with convenient access to various amenities and activities. This combination of traditional design, functional living spaces, and unique outdoor features positions the penthouse as a desirable property in the East Village market, offering a balance of urban convenience and a tranquil, green retreat. #EastVillagePenthouse #RooftopGarden #VegetableGarden #LuxuryRealEstate #NYCArchitecture #IndustrialChic #VintageDesign #Stribling #UnionSquareProximity

MUA Architecture & Placemaking has developed the Green Cape Botanico project on the Black Sea coast in Batumi, Georgia, aiming to seamlessly integrate contemporary architecture with the region's natural landscape and cultural heritage. Situated near the Batumi Botanical Garden, the site offers extensive sea views and is surrounded by lush greenery, along with a mix of low-rise houses and historical Soviet-era vacation homes. The design responds to this context by prioritizing minimal environmental impact and community-centric features. The masterplan comprises two apartment buildings and a central House of Wellness, designed to connect residential areas with recreational amenities. A key aspect of the design involves elevating the buildings to preserve the natural topography, allowing the existing landscape to remain largely untouched. This approach also incorporates existing pathways into the design, ensuring a continuous flow between structures and the surrounding environment. The apartment buildings feature a straightforward architectural style, characterized by floor-to-ceiling glass facades that provide unobstructed views of the sea and the botanical surroundings. This transparent design reinforces the connection between the indoor spaces and the natural world, enhancing the sense of openness and integration with the landscape. The open hotel typology further supports this interaction, blending the built environment with its natural setting. The House of Wellness is a four-level facility serving both residents and hotel guests, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor activities just minutes from the beach. Its design draws inspiration from the local landscape, contemporary recreational facility trends, and global architectural examples for similar functions. The building is constructed with a raw concrete frame, featuring curved corners and an elevated structure that allows for natural airflow beneath a floating rooftop pool. The terrace area, accessible via a prominent staircase, provides spaces for relaxation and entertainment. Addressing the challenges of a hilly and compact site, the design keeps the ground level open for parking, while placing the restaurant, gym, and pools on upper levels to maximize sea views. Technical areas are discreetly integrated into the building's contours, located behind the swimming pools. The rooftop terrace is equipped with both adult and children’s pools, an open kitchen, and a bar sheltered by a concrete canopy, creating a functional yet cohesive social space. This thoughtful design ensures that the Green Cape Botanico project balances modern architectural aesthetics with environmental preservation, resulting in a sustainable and harmonious development. #MUAArchitecture #GreenCapeBotanico #HotelDesign #GeorgianCoast #SustainableArchitecture #ConcreteStaircase #WellnessCenter #CoastalDevelopment #IntegratedLandscape

The concept of 'skyfarming,' which involves cultivating food vertically rather than horizontally, is moving beyond the realm of science fiction and into practical application. This is exemplified by a 9-meter tall food garden currently under construction in London for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show, the UK's premier garden exhibition. This innovative structure features one wall dedicated entirely to plants and the other to solar photovoltaic panels. These panels are crucial for powering the water pumps that circulate water from a borehole through a hydroponic growing system, demonstrating a sustainable approach to urban agriculture. Inside the tower, alongside a staircase, are designated greenhouse areas for plant propagation and a compost chute for waste management. The plant-covered wall is adorned with large window boxes, accommodating a variety of edible plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and nasturtiums. This design was conceived by landscape architect Patrick Collins and architect Laurie Chetwood for the B&Q-sponsored garden. Adjacent to the window boxes is a wall featuring herbs like thyme, chamomile, and oregano, which thrive when regularly clipped, highlighting the aesthetic and practical benefits of such a system. While acknowledging that a 9-meter tower is not a typical addition to a city garden, Chetwood emphasizes that the Chelsea Flower Show serves as a platform for grand, inspirational ideas. The goal is to present concepts that, while ambitious in scale, contain practical elements that individuals can adapt for their own smaller gardens. Collins reinforces this message, stating that the garden aims to illustrate that anyone can grow their own vegetables, even with limited space like a window box. The garden's focus on edibility extends to all its components, including the trees. Vertically trimmed lime trees produce flowers suitable for herbal tea, and mulberry trees offer crunchy berries. Collins points out that while 90% of global food comes from just 20 plant species, the world hosts hundreds of edible plants. The B&Q Garden aims to showcase this diversity, featuring less common edibles like *Stevia rebaudiana*, a plant known for its sweet taste and potential as a sugar substitute. An interesting feature of the garden is an 'insect hotel' with 90 'bedrooms' designed by schoolchildren. This playful element carries a serious message: to encourage people to establish ecological habitats within their gardens. The decline in insect populations, often described as 'getting hammered,' underscores the importance of creating environments where these creatures can thrive. The architects and designers behind this project express a strong belief in the importance of fostering urban food production, particularly in cities like London, where food security can be a concern. The project serves as an inspiration for city dwellers to engage in gardening, regardless of the size of their available space. #ChelseaFlowerShow #VerticalGarden #Skyfarming #Hydroponics #UrbanGardening #SustainableLiving #EdiblePlants #InsectHotel #FoodSecurity

A 3,000+ square-foot pre-war condominium penthouse at 10 East 14th Street in Union Square, Manhattan, is listed for $6.995 million. This residence, described as a “splendid chateau,” features a 600-square-foot all-glass conservatory and an expansive 1,300-square-foot rooftop garden. The interior design blends lush and lively aesthetics, incorporating exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, and custom built-ins. A gas-burning fireplace and ceiling speakers contribute to the home's ambiance. The kitchen is designed for a chef, equipped with high-end appliances including two Miele dishwashers, a wet bar, a wine fridge, a double oven, a Thermador five-burner gas cooktop, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator. Walnut kitchen cabinets and custom closets provide ample storage. A three-seat eat-in island is adorned with honed Jerusalem Gold limestone, while a custom Anne Sacks mosaic tile backsplash complements a hand-painted cherry tree mural. The living and dining areas feature walnut-framed windows, bookshelves, and a stone gas fireplace with a custom lacquer mantle, offering a blend of Moroccan and Parisian chic design elements. The master suite includes both reach-in and walk-in closets. Its en-suite bathroom boasts 12-foot ceilings, a heated floor, exposed brick, decorative mosaic tile floors, and mother-of-pearl walls. The second bedroom offers floor-to-ceiling closets and drawers, with direct access to a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. A third bedroom, which can also function as a home office, is fitted with bespoke cherry built-ins, including a cinema center. The conservatory, a prominent feature of the penthouse, serves as a versatile space, ideal for a second living room, a lounge, an office, or an entertainment area. It provides access to north and south-facing private gardens. These outdoor spaces are well-appointed with a plumbed gas grill, a gas fire pit, a sink and fridge, a timed irrigation system, custom furniture and storage, a pair of pergolas, and an elaborate lighting system designed for outdoor entertaining. #Penthouse #UnionSquare #LuxuryRealEstate #Manhattan #RooftopGarden #Conservatory #PreWarCondo #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign

In northern Italy's Piedmont region, a distinctive modernist pavilion stands as a contemporary interpretation of a castle, enveloped by its own body of water and accessible via a drawbridge. This architectural marvel, designed by Duilio Damilano of Damilano Studio, sought to create a secluded oasis, blending Italian luxury with the serene aesthetics of a Japanese Zen garden. The client and architect shared a mutual admiration for Japanese design principles, which significantly influenced the project's interior and exterior elements. The exterior of the pavilion features a large garden, conceptualized by landscape gardener Paolo Roagna. This garden draws inspiration from symmetrical Japanese botany, incorporating sculptural Bonsai trees and water features harmoniously alongside indigenous trees and shrubs. The building's perimeter is defined by sculptural metal grid structures on opposing sides. These grids are not merely aesthetic; they provide essential shade during the summer months and are adorned with geometrically positioned square blocks of Fir wood, adding visual depth. The external walls are also crafted from Fir wood, treated with the traditional Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique, which involves burning the wood to enhance its durability. The single-floor dwelling utilizes pigmented micro cement throughout. Externally, this material is acid-etched to mimic the appearance of natural stone, while the interior surfaces are left smooth. The internal layout is designed to foster continuous interaction with the surrounding natural environment, largely achieved through expansive sliding glass walls. The interiors showcase a thoughtful curation of design pieces, where luxury meets functionality and artistic expression. In the sitting room, a playful ‘Cactus’ coatrack by Guido Drocco and Franco Mello immediately captures attention, positioned near a painting titled ‘Sardinia’ by Andrea Lo Papa. The room also features an enveloping ‘Pack’ sofa by Edra, illuminated by Ingo Maurer’s ‘Lacrime del Pescatore’ lighting. A hand-crafted rug by Mohebban Milano and a collection of wooden sculptures by Austrian artist Daniel Eggli further enrich the space. The dining room offers a contrasting palette to the building's earthy brown tones. It features a gold leaf table, designed by Dilmos Milano, complemented by ‘Ella’ chairs by Jacopo Foggini for Edra, which are described as having soft, gleaming molten amber hues. The ‘Scrigno’ sideboard, with its mosaic mirror shards, adds a deeper luster, reflecting the jewel-toned scheme. Damilano describes these colors as representing the 'earth and territory, warm and material colors.' The kitchen and bathrooms maintain a practical yet refined aesthetic. The kitchen, hand-built in oak by a local carpenter, is designed for industrial efficiency, a material choice echoed in the bathroom. The bathroom is equipped with ‘Origini’ taps by Gessi, ‘I Ching’ towel warmers by Elisa Ossino for Tubes, and sanitary ware by Cielo Ceramiche. In the main bedroom, a burnished dragon motif, painted by artist Riccardo Brotini, adorns the entire back wall, drawing inspiration from Japanese mythology where dragons symbolize cosmic guardianship and control over natural elements. A foldaway bed is integrated into the ceiling, allowing for flexible use of the space, which also connects to the terrace, pool, and gardens through sliding glass doors. The design team's overarching goal was to create a dynamic yet meditative natural experience, with the metal mesh and interlocking wooden blocks forming an optical illusion that changes as one moves around the pavilion. This integration of Italian luxury with Japanese Zen principles culminates in a home that emphasizes well-being and a harmonious connection with its environment. #ModernistPavilion #ItalianLuxury #JapaneseZenGarden #ArchitectureDesign #PiedmontHome #DuilioDamilano #InteriorDesign #ShouSugiBan #LandscapeDesign

Patrick Blanc, a botanist renowned for over 30 years of creating vertical gardens, has transformed Parisian walls, most notably at the Jean Nouvel–designed Quai Branly museum. One family, the Dimanches, has the unique privilege of experiencing Blanc's vertical gardens within their own living space. Blanc, identifiable by his distinctive style, has cultivated a reputation as an urban garden guru, utilizing a trademark top-down irrigation system and three decades of botanical research across three continents. His portfolio includes creations for the Pershing Hall hotel, the Fondation Cartier in Paris, the Siam Paragon mall in Bangkok, various boutiques, and restaurants. Following the grand opening of the Jean Nouvel–designed Musée du Quai Branly in Paris, featuring an 8,600-square-foot facade with 15,000 plants, Blanc has seen an influx of large-scale commissions. Blanc's journey began with residential projects, starting with his own apartment in Créteil, on the outskirts of Paris, which he transformed into a tropical rainforest. While major commissions later became his focus, some homeowners successfully convinced him to create outdoor vertical gardens, aiming to introduce a 'rural' element into their urban environments. However, his expertise in indoor vertical gardens, particularly with low-light plants, remained largely untapped until 2004. This changed when Jean-Marc Dimanche contacted Blanc with an idea for a 20-by-23-foot interior wall in his 4,400-square-foot home, then under construction in the Left Bank’s 14th arrondissement. Dimanche recounts Blanc's enthusiastic response, signaling the start of their collaborative adventure. Two years later, the Dimanches' home now features a lush forest canopy, a living canvas comprising approximately 150 tropical, low-light plant species harmoniously arranged. The vertical garden transitions from a field of texture at the base to arcs of violet and amber flowers, culminating in an overhang of trees near the ceiling, creating a sheltering forest effect. This living element seamlessly integrates with the home's raw architectural features, such as concrete and metal beams, and a transparent glass elevator, as well as the family's personal belongings, including country-kitchen stools, orchids, and worn leather armchairs. Jean-Marc Dimanche finds the overall effect to be very calming. The Dimanches' move from a renovated longère outside Rambouillet to their new Parisian home represented a significant lifestyle shift. Vivette Dimanche emphasizes that their house is not merely conceptual but embodies 'le vivant, le vécu' — the living, the lived experience. Given Paris's high population density, Blanc's plant walls offer a solution to integrate nature into the urban fabric without negating the city's structure. Blanc aims to extend his work beyond homes and museums to less aesthetically pleasing urban locations like parking lots, public housing, and train stations, areas where living things are unexpected. He asserts that his plant walls are not a critique of urban life but an effort to reconcile it with nature, creating spaces that foster a connection between the urban environment and the natural world. #VerticalGarden #PatrickBlanc #IndoorGarden #UrbanGreenery #HomeDesign #ParisianLiving #BiophilicDesign #InteriorPlants #LivingWalls

The Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Palm Beach features an inspiring outdoor wellness sanctuary envisioned by Helen Lambrakis and Erik Moraillon of Garden 26. This serene space, centered around a magnificent banyan tree, was designed to provide a multifaceted destination for relaxation and restoration. The transformation began with the removal of all existing concrete, replaced by lush, verdant grasses, aligning with the designers' philosophy of building around a location's natural offerings. The garden's design prioritizes visual intrigue from every angle due to its multiple entrances, necessitating the creation of distinct "rooms" to ensure a seamless flow and cater to various forms of relaxation. These dedicated zones include a fire pit area, outdoor dining spaces furnished with sculptural woven pieces by Bonacina, a dedicated wellness area complete with custom meditation cushions, a tranquil reading nook, and a traditional pool deck. Plantings were meticulously selected to create layers of textures and varying shades of green, contributing not only to visual appeal but also to the overall sense of calm. The designers also considered the air-purifying qualities of the vegetation, aiming to foster a deeper sense of wellness for visitors. Key plant species featured in the design include lipstick, lady, and Christmas palms, philodendron, giant bird of paradise, agave, and several varieties of ferns. Lambrakis articulated the intention behind the design, stating a desire to foster a sense of exploration that leads to self-discovery. The core elements of serenity, meditation, and the majestic banyan tree are central to the garden's conceptual framework, inviting guests to connect with these aspects for a rejuvenating experience. This thoughtful approach to landscape design emphasizes holistic well-being, transforming an outdoor area into a haven for winter escape and personal renewal. #OutdoorSpace #WellnessSanctuary #KipsBayDecoratorShowHouse #PalmBeach #GardenDesign #LandscapeArchitecture #MeditationSpace #TropicalGarden #DesignerShowhouse

The Ji Yun Yao Resort, designed by Chinese studio line+, is situated in Yaoshan Village, Guangzhou, China, in a valley historically inhabited by Yao ancestors over 300 years ago. This hotel project carefully integrates the natural terraced mountain landscape with the rich cultural heritage of the Hakka community. The architectural design features rooflines with varied slopes, a nod to traditional village aesthetics, which allows the structures to blend seamlessly into the natural topography. This approach is guided by the philosophy of 'Retreat to Nature, Return to Community.' The material palette of the resort is inspired by traditional Hakka settlements, incorporating earth-toned plaster, clay tiles, and wood-colored flooring to harmonize with the surrounding environment. Reinforced concrete structures provide a modern foundation, ensuring durability while maintaining an organic aesthetic. The master plan for the resort prioritizes a 'Planning-First, Respecting Nature' methodology, establishing a dual-route system that includes both direct access for electric vehicles and a scenic pedestrian path. This layout intelligently transitions from densely forested areas to a central village core, with wooden boardwalks and lakeside paths connecting various functional zones within the resort. Key to the resort's design is the preservation and repurposing of existing ancestral halls and other historical structures, which enhances the cultural depth of the property. Building clusters are interconnected by pathways, water features, and lush greenery, emulating the communal spirit of the original village while offering contemporary functionalities. Guest accommodations are strategically positioned across different elevations and orientations to maximize privacy and foster a strong connection with the natural surroundings. Lower-level units are designed with private courtyards, offering intimate outdoor spaces, while upper-level rooms provide expansive views of the adjacent mountains. The diverse layouts and sizes of the rooms ensure unique spatial experiences for guests, with multi-level platforms and landscape elements facilitating organic transitions between different areas. Large glass windows are a prominent feature, allowing abundant natural light to penetrate the interiors and providing unobstructed panoramic views of the mountainous terrain. Public areas of the resort utilize lightweight steel frames and glass facades, striking a balance between modern comfort and the rustic charm inherent to the village setting. Historical buildings have been thoughtfully repurposed to house essential facilities such as lobbies, dining areas, and private suites, preserving their cultural significance while adapting them for contemporary use. The resort is designed to offer a secluded retreat, far removed from urban life, thereby establishing a 'poetic sanctuary' where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil countryside environment. #architecture #resortDesign #sustainableArchitecture #culturalHeritage #HakkaCommunity #terracedLandscape #natureIntegration #ChinaArchitecture #linePlusStudio

In Old Havana, a boutique hotel known as A|S Residence offers an intimate lodging experience, blending contemporary design with historical elements. The project is the result of a two-year restoration by Havana-born dancer and musician Sandy Solano Diahave and Dutch fashion designer and artist André Visser. The hotel, formerly a baroque 19th-century mansion, is situated in a city recognized for its diverse architectural heritage, encompassing Spanish colonial, Art Deco, and 1950s styles, many of which face challenges from environmental factors and economic conditions, despite their UNESCO protection. The A|S Residence comprises five suites and four junior suites. The restoration aimed to maintain the original character of the building while integrating modern design. This approach is evident in the preservation of architectural features such as towering five-meter-high ceilings, exposed brickwork, stripped doors, and woodwork. Original elements like carved columns, intricate ironwork, Carrara marble, and handmade floor tiles were meticulously conserved and serve as a foundation for the interior design choices. The interiors are curated with a mix of influences. Rooms feature Italian lighting and are adorned with Cuban art alongside Visser’s abstract canvases. The furniture selection includes modernist pieces, such as Barcelona lounge chairs, complemented by items crafted by local artisans. The blend of European and Cuban design sensibilities creates a distinctive atmosphere within the residence. Beyond accommodation, A|S Residence engages with the local community through its ground-floor establishment, HAV Coffee. This space functions as both a cafe, serving Cuban coffee and brunch, and an art gallery, showcasing works by emerging local and international artists. The hotel also boasts a rooftop terrace that offers views of Havana. This area is available for activities like yoga sessions and dance classes, and it also serves as a tranquil spot for guests to relax with a drink after exploring nearby attractions. The hotel's capacity is limited to ten guests, and it enforces a policy of no children under 16, contributing to its quiet and exclusive ambiance. The location of A|S Residence provides convenient access to significant landmarks and vibrant streets in Old Havana, including Obispo and Mercaderes Streets, Belém Convent, Plaza Belém, the Capitolio, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and the Gran Teatro de La Habana. The thoughtful restoration and design of A|S Residence contribute to the preservation of Havana’s architectural legacy while introducing a contemporary hospitality experience. #HavanaHotels #BoutiqueHotel #CubanDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #OldHavana #InteriorDesign #ArtAndCulture #TravelCuba

CRU! architects, a Sao Paulo-based architecture firm, completed the Guesthouse Paraty, an eco-conscious social building project that aimed to minimize environmental impact and provide employment and training opportunities for the local community. The guesthouse, situated in Brazil's tropical climate, was constructed using natural and locally sourced materials, including red earth excavated from the site, and tree trunks and bamboo from the surrounding forest. This approach not only reduced the building's carbon footprint but also fostered local economic development. The design of Guesthouse Paraty incorporates passive solar principles to ensure natural cooling, an essential feature given its location. The building, measuring nearly 37 square meters, is designed for flexible use, functioning as short-term lodging, a workspace, or a children's play area. Its compact layout includes a double bed, a lofted single bed, and a convertible futon in the living area, providing three sleeping accommodations. The open-plan living space is integrated with a small cooking area and a dining table. To prevent the guesthouse from feeling confined, the architects incorporated expansive glass walls that allow abundant natural light and offer views of the surrounding landscape. A glazed entrance further enhances this connection to the outdoors, opening onto a sheltered outdoor living space. The project's commitment to sustainability is evident in its material selection and construction methods. The walls are made from rammed earth, and the roof is a green roof, topped with locally sourced black earth and plant matter. The formwork used for the rammed earth walls was repurposed for the roof structure, exemplifying a circular economy approach. Bamboo columns support the roof, and a massive granite rock, existing on the site, was integrated into the bedroom wall, further grounding the building within its natural context. Key design features for climate control include overhanging roof eaves and the green roof, both of which work to mitigate unwanted solar heat gain. All windows are operable and strategically placed to facilitate cross-ventilation, ensuring a constant flow of fresh air and natural cooling. Insect screens are installed on all windows to provide protection from mosquitoes, enhancing comfort without relying on artificial methods. The Guesthouse Paraty project showcases a holistic approach to sustainable architecture, combining local materials, traditional building techniques, and modern design principles to create a functional, environmentally responsible, and community-benefiting structure. #EcoFriendlyArchitecture #GreenRoof #RammedEarth #SustainableDesign #LocalMaterials #PassiveSolar #CommunityProject #BrazilianArchitecture #CRUArchitects

The Sunyata Eco Hotel in Chikmagalur, Karnataka, India, designed by Bangalore-based practice Design Kacheri, represents a modern architectural intervention that integrates traditional building practices and alternative materials to minimize its environmental impact. This boutique hotel serves as an example of how indigenous building traditions can be combined with contemporary design principles to create sustainable luxury hospitality experiences. The design prioritizes sustainability by largely utilizing a load-bearing structure to reduce reliance on concrete and incorporates local vernacular architecture principles to optimize the internal microclimate. The project aims to function as an experience center for eco-friendly living. The initial brief for the hotel emphasized providing the luxury and comfort of a conventional boutique hotel while adhering to stringent sustainability criteria. Situated on a peri-urban site with receding terraces, the building incorporates various forms of earth-based construction, including rammed earth, mud blocks, poured earth, and mud concrete. Its exterior is characterized by a strong geometric design language influenced by contextual factors. Most materials and finishes on the exterior are exposed, creating a facade design rich with perforations and intricate masonry assemblies that highlight the earthy texture of mud bricks and granite. The interplay of solids and voids is evident both in the building's overall massing and in the detailed jaalis and undulating brick protrusions adorning its surfaces and parapet walls. The hotel's layout is centered around a landscaped green space, drawing inspiration from the 'thotti mane' style of courtyard homes common in the Karnataka region. This central courtyard features an organic spatial flow, providing a contrast to the predominantly rectilinear design vocabulary of the built forms and establishing a dynamic interaction between rigidity and fluidity, as well as natural and man-made elements. The design team opted for flat roofs over traditional pitched ones, not only for aesthetic reasons but also for their superior effectiveness as rainwater catchments. These cascading terraces offer views of an adjacent park and distant hills, connecting the guest rooms to the natural surroundings. They are integral to the hotel's complex rainwater harvesting system, channeling water to the central courtyard where it is stored in large tanks embedded in the foundations, capable of holding over 45,000 liters. Any excess water is directed to an open well within the courtyard. Supporting this system are natural filters, with the open well gathering surplus water and plunging to a depth of 30 feet, designed to have minimal impact on nearby aquifers. Additionally, an eco-friendly sewage treatment system is integrated, which relies on microorganisms, plants, and gravel to treat water without chemicals or energy, mirroring natural processes and contributing to a 'cradle to cradle' sustainable lifecycle. The hotel spans three storeys, offering various guest rooms unified by a naturalistic material palette. Construction techniques like filler slabs, brick jaalis, jack arch roofs, vaults, and precast hourdi clay roofs were employed to minimize concrete usage in both the structural frame and the interior. Exposed brick, earthen walls, and exposed concrete are complemented by black stone flooring in most rooms, defining the interior aesthetic. The principle of using bare, authentic materials extends to the furniture, much of which is custom-made from cane or repurposed from old wooden and cane pieces. Passive cooling is achieved through solar chimneys on the south and west walls, along with earth air tunnels and shafts that facilitate cool air circulation, reducing the need for air conditioning in many areas. In line with its sustainability objectives, the hotel also incorporates a solar array, installed in phases, to meet a portion of its energy needs. A notable achievement during construction was the almost exclusive use of solar energy to power on-site equipment, setting a precedent for sustainable hospitality architecture in the country. The Sunyata Eco Hotel demonstrates that luxury hospitality can be sustainable by drawing on traditional wisdom and eco-conscious design rather than solely relying on technology-driven environmental solutions, thereby offering a blueprint for future hotel design. The project encompasses a built-up area of 10,000 sq ft and was completed in 2021, with Design Kacheri as the architect and a design team including Chaitra Saraf, Nidhish Kurup, Alex Paul, Niyati Thakur, and Kishor KS, supported by Mahija Consultants for structural aspects, Capstone Building Services and Consultants for MEP, and ECOSTP for sewage treatment. #SunyataEcoHotel #DesignKacheri #BoutiqueHospitality #SustainableArchitecture #VernacularArchitecture #RammedEarthArchitecture #RainwaterHarvesting #PassiveCooling #EcoFriendlyDesign #IndianArchitecture #Chikmagalur #GreenBuilding

Vertical gardens offer a practical solution for individuals with limited backyard space or those seeking an ergonomic gardening experience. These space-saving units allow for the cultivation of various plants, from herbs and succulents to strawberries, without the need for extensive bending or kneeling. They are particularly well-suited for small porches, balconies, and patios, with many models also suitable for indoor use, depending on lighting conditions and plant type. The selection of a vertical garden involves considering several key factors, including materials, size, and design. Materials commonly used include wood, metal, and plastic, or combinations thereof. Wooden vertical gardens often impart a rustic aesthetic and are generally robust. Metal gardens are known for their durability, lighter frames, and often feature powder coatings to prevent rust and corrosion. Plastic options are typically the most economical, offering versatility and sturdiness, though with less aesthetic charm than wood or metal. Size is another critical consideration, as vertical gardens vary significantly. Some designs maintain a small footprint by stacking planters directly upwards, while others feature planters that extend wider than the base for a more expansive display. Users should consider both the overall height and the height of individual planters, especially for indoor placement or for individuals who prefer not to bend excessively. The article highlights that the selected vertical gardens are top-rated, cover various styles and materials, and cater to different price points, with an emphasis on stability and durability based on past Popular Mechanics reports. The article then details several top recommendations, each with unique features. The Lettuce Grow Farmstand Hydroponic Vertical Garden is highlighted as a sustainable option, made from ocean-bound plastic and using 95% less water than traditional gardening. It's a self-fertilizing system that comes with essential nutrients and a pH testing kit, offering a high-end experience suitable for a range of plant types and featuring various add-ons like grow lights and heaters. For those seeking a visually appealing option for a wall, the Leisure Season Wood Vertical Garden is presented as a stylish, multi-tier cedar structure that can also support climbing plants. It includes drainage holes and plastic liners, and is weather-resistant for both indoor and outdoor use. The Amazing Creation Stackable Vertical Garden Planter is noted for its affordability and versatility, ideal for small plants like strawberries and herbs. Its stackable design allows for adjustable height, and each tier includes a soil separator to prevent leakage. For metal options, the Outland Living Four-Tier Vertical Garden is recommended for its food-grade plastic bins set within a curved, rust-resistant metal frame, suitable for taller spaces. Similarly, the Giantex Vertical Garden offers a stylish wooden design with independently usable, tilted planters for optimal sunlight exposure. The Outland Living Five-Tier Vertical Garden provides a mid-sized metal option with an ergonomic tiered design and powder-coated steel frame. For space-saving wall-mounted solutions, the HilarityMax 36-Pocket Vertical Garden, made of reinforced felt with rust-resistant eyelets, offers an inexpensive way to create a living wall. The Cyan Design Vertical Garden stands out as a stylish indoor option with a cascading design and removable, deep buckets. The Arlmont & Co. Vertical Garden offers a compact, five-tiered plastic design with an independent drainage system, suitable for smaller outdoor areas. Lastly, the Algreen Vertical Living Wall Planter is presented as a durable, weather-resistant wall-mounted option with adjustable planter boxes, while the YardCraft Cedar Vertical Garden is a double-sided cedar model, ideal for accommodating plants with varying sunlight needs, though it requires sealing for outdoor use. #VerticalGardens #HomeGardening #SpaceSaving #IndoorGardening #OutdoorGardening #Hydroponics #GardeningTools #PlantingSolutions #HomeImprovement

The Municipal Grand, a new boutique hotel from Midnight Auteur, a hospitality brand co-founded by the creators of Death & Co. cocktail empire and the Ramble Hotel in Denver, opened in Savannah, Georgia, on July 9. The hotel is housed in the former First Federal Savings and Loan Association building, a midcentury modern structure dating back to 1961, located in the city's historic district between Leopold’s Ice Cream and the Marshall House. Alex Day, Midnight Auteur's chief operating officer, stated that the building's unique character and Savannah's vibrant energy made it an ideal location for their first hotel venture. The hotel features an “all-day” lobby bar, the Municipal Bar, which serves as a communal gathering space for both hotel guests and the public, offering cocktails and an all-day restaurant menu. Later in the year, a more intimate basement bar is scheduled to open. The building's original blue tilework was incorporated into the interior design by AAmp Studio, in collaboration with Lynch Associates Architects and Ward Architecture + Preservation. The design team embraced the tilework, which Day initially questioned, showcasing a blend of the building’s midcentury heritage with modern aesthetics. Hotel guests have exclusive access to a rooftop pool and the Sun Club, a lounging area with panoramic views of Savannah, including church steeples, theater marquees, and cargo ships. This rooftop area is designed for relaxation and offers warm-weather cocktails, particularly at sunset. The guest rooms, totaling forty-four, feature plush minibars with arched millwork, marble tops, and a curated selection of spirits and coffee. Some rooms also include private terraces overlooking Broughton Street, further enhancing the guest experience. The bathrooms in the guest rooms are designed with handmade Moroccan tiles and red marble vanities, adding to the luxurious feel. The hotel's emphasis on both public and private spaces aims to integrate it into the local community while providing an exclusive experience for its guests. The Municipal Grand is positioned as a significant addition to Savannah's hospitality landscape, offering a blend of historic preservation and contemporary design. #SavannahHotel #MunicipalGrand #BoutiqueHotel #HotelDesign #MidcenturyModern #SavannahTravel #LuxuryHospitality #RooftopPool #CocktailBar

The Senescent Desk, created by Swedish designer Love Hulten, offers a unique way to integrate nature into the workspace. This desk features a built-in, self-sufficient gardening system, designed for individuals who spend considerable time at their desks but desire a connection to the natural world. Crafted from American walnut and birch, the desk utilizes locally sourced, untreated wood, allowing its appearance to naturally evolve over time in response to its environment and the integrated garden. The self-contained gardening system within the desk is equipped with a hidden water tank, misters, two fans, a digital timer, and a growth substrate material made from recycled plastic. These components work together to maintain the plants without requiring frequent human intervention. The central concept behind the Senescent Desk is to observe and appreciate nature's autonomous growth, allowing the vegetation to flourish and gradually 'customize' the furniture's aesthetic without external styling or gardening efforts. Love Hulten's studio, based in Gothenburg, Sweden, is known for its approach that blends traditional artisan craftsmanship with modern technological elements. This philosophy results in designs that are both functional and evoke a sense of nostalgia. The Senescent Desk exemplifies this by challenging the conventional human tendency to control nature through gardening, instead fostering an environment where natural processes are given free rein to interact with and transform a personal object. This design aims to address the disconnect many people feel from nature due to prolonged indoor work, providing a low-maintenance, living element within their immediate surroundings. The desk's material choice and the self-sufficient garden system emphasize a passive interaction with nature, promoting an appreciation for organic change and growth in an unexpected setting. It serves as a statement piece that encourages contemplation on the relationship between human-made objects and the untamed aspects of the natural world, allowing for a dynamic and evolving aesthetic experience over time. #LoveHulten #SenescentDesk #SelfSufficientGarden #DeskDesign #SustainableDesign #WoodenFurniture #SwedishDesign #BiophilicDesign #HomeOffice

The Star House, a 6,600-square-foot single-family residence in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, designed by Atelier Gratia principal Grace Ming-En Chang, presents a unique blend of fortress-like protection and open, airy living. This inward-gazing structure was conceived to offer a sense of refuge amidst the dense urban environment. From the street, the home appears as a faceted concrete monolith, providing a robust and private exterior. However, once inside, the design reveals an open and airy layout centered around a private courtyard. Every room in the residence benefits from a view of this central sanctuary through full-height glass walls. Many of these glass panels are designed to slide open, providing direct access to decks or balconies, thereby seamlessly connecting the interior with the outdoor spaces. The focal point of the courtyard is a ground-floor Zen garden, which pays homage to Japanese aesthetics and culture, reflecting the homeowner's past residency in Japan. Chang explains that this garden utilizes geometric principles to symbolize an idealized vision of heaven. A striking feature of the Zen garden is a single, sculptural pine tree that emerges from the center of an infinity-edge reflecting pool. This pool is also home to koi, adding a dynamic and tranquil element to the space. An iris-lined path gracefully leads from the courtyard to the backyard, which is lushly forested with bamboo and ferns, further enhancing the connection to nature. The integration of greenery extends to the rooftop, where the landscape transitions into a more wild and free-form style. This rooftop garden is described by Chang as a “gesture of giving back to nature.” A prairie of tropical grass covers the roof, playing a crucial role in the home's environmental performance. This grass is irrigated using recirculated rainwater, contributing to water conservation efforts. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the rooftop vegetation serves a functional purpose by helping to block the harsh sun, thereby cooling the interior temperature of the home. The lawn is interspersed with various shrubs and fragrant native flora, including rosemary, jasmine, and lantana. These plants have not only beautified the space but have also quickly attracted local wildlife, turning the rooftop into a haven for butterflies and birds, thus creating an unexpected oasis within the urban landscape of Kaohsiung. The project was a 2022 Best of Year Winner for Residential Landscape, highlighting its innovative design and successful execution in blending urban living with natural tranquility. The design exemplifies how architectural planning can create a serene and private environment within a bustling city, using thoughtful landscaping and a strategic layout to achieve both aesthetic beauty and functional benefits. #AtelierGratia #ZenGarden #ResidentialLandscape #TaiwanDesign #CourtyardHouse #SustainableDesign #UrbanOasis #ArchitecturalInnovation

Mirtilla Alliata di Montereale, an Italian architect, has completed Casa Azzurra, a desert retreat in Joshua Tree, California. This residence is characterized by its blue-tinted walls, which are designed to reflect the changing colors of the desert sky. Situated on a 10-acre elevated site, Casa Azzurra offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains and is intended as a vacation rental for multi-generational families or groups of friends seeking a tranquil escape in nature. The architect describes the project as a place for connection, inspired by Italian hospitality and the serenity of the desert environment. The single-storey structure consists of two main concrete volumes positioned perpendicularly and connected by an L-shaped wooden pergola. This pergola creates significant shaded outdoor living areas, including a sunken lounge with a fire pit, an outdoor dining space, a hot tub, and a 30-foot lap pool, providing ample opportunities for relaxation in the cooler evening temperatures. The exterior walls feature textured cat-face stucco, tinted in five distinct shades of blue, deliberately chosen to mimic the sky's evolving hues. The brightest blue sections face a central courtyard, creating a protective corridor that grants access to three of the four bedrooms within the main residence. Inside, each bedroom is uniquely decorated in a different jewel tone, a design choice inspired by Alliata di Montereale’s memories of family visits in Italy. These vibrant colors stand in contrast to the beige plaster finish prevalent in the open-plan main living space. This central area boasts high ceilings and large sliding glass doors, seamlessly connecting the interior with the outdoor living spaces. The interior furnishings, textiles, and artworks enhance the space, while elements like kitchen cabinetry are subtly integrated into the neutral decor. The design incorporates Murano glass fixtures, Salvador Dalí prints, and a blend of linen, wood, and stone textures, creating an elevated yet inviting atmosphere. In addition to the main house, the property includes a separate, smaller guest house. This guest house offers enhanced privacy and is located adjacent to a pickleball court. It features an angular roof and a minimalist interior, with wood-paneled walls and a custom-built platform bed strategically placed beneath a row of angled windows, allowing for optimal stargazing. Mirtilla Alliata di Montereale, who studied at SCI-Arc and has experience working with notable architects such as Frank Gehry and Kulapat Yantrasast, has contributed to the growing collection of innovative residences in the Joshua Tree area. This region, east of Los Angeles, is known for its distinctive architectural projects, including the mirrored Invisible House and a wood-and-stucco house and art studio influenced by mid-century Eichler homes, as well as various glamping sites like an Airstream park and weathering steel cabins. #DesertRetreat #JoshuaTree #CaliforniaArchitecture #OutdoorLiving #ModernResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #VacationRental #Stargazing

This article details the transformation of a small, inner-Sydney garden into a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing courtyard, complete with an entertaining zone, lap pool, and lush green presence. Homeowners Adrian and Tiffany Wilson embarked on this project to complement their renovated two-storey, four-bedroom Victorian terrace, which occupies a compact 153m2 footprint. The primary objective was to create a private, green oasis within a densely populated urban area, maximizing every square centimeter while maintaining a seamless indoor-outdoor flow and an industrial-glam aesthetic. The courtyard garden, measuring a mere 10x5m, demonstrates efficient design by integrating a 5.4m-long plunge pool, an open entertaining area, a garage, and a small patch of lawn. A key innovation is the garage, which serves a dual purpose as a covered outdoor seating area that opens directly alongside the pool, enhancing the versatility of the space. The visual impact is significantly boosted by a verdant vertical garden, described as a living artwork, which also contributes to cooling the area. Complementing this, rooftop gardens provide additional trailing greenery, further enhancing the green appeal of the compact space. Mark Paul, a horticulturist and garden designer, highlights the smart thinking behind incorporating green walls and roof gardens. These features not only offer insulation benefits to the building but also provide a clever solution for meeting mandatory landscaping requirements, particularly in high-density housing where achieving adequate greenery for Development Application (DA) conditions can be challenging. Green walls, in particular, are noted for their water efficiency, requiring daily drip irrigation but consuming only 1.5 liters of water per square meter per day, which is considerably less than traditional garden beds. The roof garden specifically utilizes EcoPillows, modular, lightweight, pre-grown panels made from 94 percent recycled materials, which also protect the roof structure. Adrian, the homeowner, expresses satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the efficiency of planting on walls and roofs compared to conventional planter boxes, and noting the low maintenance required. The design also features bespoke steel bifold doors, double-glazed for noise reduction and insulation, and a built-in barbecue with a custom-made concrete benchtop and integrated sink. New Botticino sandblasted marble pavers extend through both the courtyard and carport areas, creating a cohesive look. Stylist Justine Stedman offers practical tips for decorating outdoor zones, suggesting they be approached with the same principles as indoor spaces, using versatile furniture like stacking chairs and atmospheric lighting such as lanterns and tealight candles. She also underscores the role of bifold doors in visually expanding internal living areas, promoting flow, and maximizing natural light. #CourtyardDesign #SmallSpaceGardening #VerticalGardens #RooftopGardens #UrbanLandscaping #OutdoorEntertaining #EcoFriendlyDesign #ModernHome #GardenRenovation

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