How Clay Makes a Big Impact in This Vancouver Office

Cork, once primarily associated with office pinboards and wine stoppers, has evolved into a versatile and sustainable material gaining significant traction in interior design. Its growing popularity over the past two years stems from a combination of environmental benefits and practical applications in home design. Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, a process that allows the tree to regenerate, making it a highly sustainable resource. Beyond its eco-friendly nature, cork boasts several inherent qualities that make it ideal for various household uses: it is sound-absorbing, providing acoustic insulation; it offers thermal insulation, contributing to energy efficiency; it is water-resistant, protecting against moisture damage; it is lightweight, making it easy to handle and install; and it possesses antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew. These attributes collectively position cork as a durable and healthy option for modern homes. One of the most notable applications of cork in contemporary design is flooring. While the idea of cork floors might initially seem unconventional, its water resistance and resistance to cracking, similar to its use in wine stoppers, make it a practical choice. Regular resealing with a protective coat of polyurethane or wax every few years ensures its longevity and ability to withstand daily wear and tear. Cork flooring is particularly favored in kitchens, where its cushioning effect is appreciated, and in rooms where delicate items might be present, as its resilience can prevent breakages. Its sound-absorbing qualities also make it an excellent material for bedrooms, contributing to a quieter and more relaxing environment. Furthermore, cork integrates well with other natural materials like plywood, creating a cohesive and earthy aesthetic, as seen in garage conversions where cork forms the floor while plywood covers walls and ceilings. Beyond flooring, cork is being creatively incorporated into walls, moving far beyond its traditional role as a simple pinboard. Designers are utilizing cork tiles to create expansive, customizable accent walls where pictures and to-do lists can be mounted, or even large-scale artwork can be casually leaned. The material offers a surprising color range beyond its common honey hue, with options like chocolate-toned cork used to complement existing architectural features, such as Victorian brickwork. Cork is also proving effective for exterior applications, with architects using thick sheets as sustainable and cost-effective siding that weathers beautifully over time, developing a silvery-gray patina. In offices, rectangular cork tiles, often oiled to a rich brown, create an immersive and interactive environment, functioning as a living mood board where framed art can be juxtaposed with casual clippings. For a more subtle integration, cork can be lined with linen and framed, as seen in cabinet doors in playrooms, allowing children to display their creations without the cork being overtly visible. Cork's water-resistant and aesthetic qualities also extend to bathrooms. It is increasingly being used as a unique alternative to wallpaper in powder rooms, creating welcoming and distinctive spaces. Some applications even feature cork wallpaper, highlighting its versatility. For primary bathrooms, where a full cork wall might feel too bold, the material can be incorporated around specific features like a tub surround, lending a touch of 1970s California-inspired design. The material's presence in furniture is also growing, with established brands and emerging designers producing cork stools, chaise longues, and even bed frames, driven by increased availability as the wine industry diversifies stopper types. In home decor, designers like Melanie Abrantes champion cork for its zero-waste production, crafting items from wine coolers to planters. These decorative pieces, along with cork mirrors, bowls, and coasters, demonstrate the material's potential to rival wood in popularity, offering a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing option for various home elements. #CorkDesign #SustainableMaterials #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #EcoFriendlyHome #FlooringOptions #WallTreatments #FurnitureDesign #AntimicrobialProperties

French studio Niveau Zéro Atelier has developed the 'Soft Soil' daybed, which utilizes waste clay from Parisian construction sites as its primary upholstery material. Unveiled at the Collectible design fair in Brussels, this innovative chaise lounge challenges traditional upholstery methods by employing wet, vacuum-sealed clay, allowing the piece to conform to the user's body. The project was commissioned by Relay Design Projects, a London-based design platform known for fostering experimentation with new materials and processes. The clay used for the daybed is sourced from excavation waste in the Parisian suburbs. Its natural grayish-green hue, attributed to its mineral-rich composition, is preserved in the final product. To make the clay suitable for upholstery, it undergoes a labor-intensive refining process. This involves repeatedly mixing the clay with water, filtering it to remove impurities, and allowing the water to separate before being poured off. These steps are repeated until the clay achieves the desired purity and consistency, making it suitable for piping into clear plastic envelopes that form the daybed's padding. Once the refined clay is encapsulated in plastic, a vacuum-sealing technique is applied to remove all air. This crucial step ensures that the clay remains wet and malleable, allowing it to adapt to the occupant's shape. The daybed's design features four separate valves with bright red lids, which secure the plastic envelopes to the reclinable backrest. The base of the daybed is constructed from recycled stainless steel, offering a stark, industrial contrast to the organic clay. Traditional Chesterfield-style button details are incorporated into the front of the clay-filled upholstery, further bridging the gap between conventional and experimental design. This project builds upon Niveau Zéro Atelier's prior work with reclaimed clay, exemplified by their 'MEGA' project. In 'MEGA,' the studio established on-site ceramic production facilities at Parisian construction sites, creating smaller pillows and seat cushions using similar encapsulation techniques. They also produced a range of terracotta-hued vases by firing the clay, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to the material's lifecycle, from its wet, malleable form to its hardened ceramic state. Relay Design Projects' commission for the Soft Soil daybed aimed to expand Niveau Zéro Atelier's clay encapsulation technique to a larger scale. The platform's mission is to support designers in exploring innovative concepts beyond their usual scope, providing resources like funding and industry connections. The Soft Soil daybed is currently on exhibition at Collectible 2024 in Brussels, alongside other projects from Relay Design Projects' cohort, including works by EBBA Architects and Haha Studio. The Collectible fair, now in its seventh year, has also announced its expansion to New York City in September, indicating a growing interest in experimental and collectible design. #NiveauZeroAtelier #SoftSoilDaybed #CollectibleDesignFair #ClayUpholstery #SustainableDesign #RecycledMaterials #ExperimentalFurniture #RelayDesignProjects #IndustrialDesign

Emily Packer, a British/American videographer, identified a critical issue in global plastic recycling, noting that only about 9% of plastics are actually recycled in America, and observed significant waste accumulation in Kigali, Rwanda. This motivated her to shift from environmental storytelling to creating a tangible local impact. Partnering with Jake Calhoun, she co-founded Coldharbour Tiles, an initiative that transforms Rwanda's plastic waste into durable, stylish home decor materials. The project's core involves melting down high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics, primarily from bottle caps, to create decorative tiles. Approximately 50 bottle caps are required for each tile, demonstrating the significant volume of plastic that can be diverted from landfills and waterways through this process. Coldharbour Tiles are designed for various home applications, including backsplashes, and the team provides guidance and design ideas to customers through a free tile information brochure. Packer's journey began after an internship with the United Nations Environmental Program, which highlighted the environmental consequences of inadequate waste management systems in developing countries. She recognized the pervasive nature of single-use plastics and the illusion of waste being simply 'thrown away,' realizing it often ends up in oceans, landfills, or other countries. Moving to Rwanda, she initially attempted to reduce plastic waste through a café that used biodegradable containers and bamboo straws, but soon recognized the unavoidable reliance on plastic in daily life, prompting her to seek a more impactful solution with long-term utility. To establish Coldharbour Tiles, Packer collaborated with Jake Calhoun, who brought experience from a social enterprise and an online food delivery company. They partnered with Kigali's IPRC engineering school, which provided a warehouse facility and technical support from professors and students. Initially, Packer personally collected HDPE plastic from waste management sites, demonstrating the project's grassroots origins. Through extensive experimentation with color, temperature, cooking times, and mold designs, they refined their tile production process despite limited engineering experience and funding. The team encountered challenges, particularly in scaling production. Their current facility, while effective for initial development, lacks the capacity for large-scale orders. The Kickstarter campaign aims to raise funds for essential equipment like a plastic-waste washing machine and commercial shredder, which would significantly boost production capabilities. The long-term vision for Coldharbour Tiles includes becoming a leader in the eco-tile industry, processing thousands of tons of plastic waste annually, and establishing manufacturing sites in Asia, Europe, the U.S., and Africa to address plastic waste globally and connect with diverse consumer markets. This expansion would also address the logistical challenges of operating in Rwanda, where access to advanced manufacturing technology is limited, necessitating creative, hands-on solutions for processes like mold design and fabrication. #SustainableDesign #RecycledMaterials #HomeDecor #PlasticWaste #Rwanda #SocialEnterprise #Crowdfunding #EcoTiles #WasteManagement

The project "Heirlooms in Concrete," designed by Greyscale Design Studio, addresses the evolving residential landscape of Bangalore, India. This residence, completed in 2024 and spanning 5000 square feet, blends traditional and modern architectural elements to accommodate changing family dynamics and spatial constraints. The design aims to foster continuity while embracing contemporary living. The project is situated in Bengaluru, India, and was photographed by Anand Jaju. The architectural team was led by Girish Mysore, Magesh Manohar, and Ninu Ahluwalia, with Rutvik Rustampur as the lead team member. Structural engineering was provided by Civitech Design, and civil engineering by Pro Constructions. The project's narrative was penned by Megala Gurumurthi. The integration of modern design with traditional values is a central theme, reflecting the balance required in rapidly urbanizing areas. The exterior of the residence, as seen in the dusk photograph, showcases a modern facade with subtle design features. The interior photography highlights the use of wood and natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Key spaces, such as the kitchen, living room, and dining area, are designed to be functional yet aesthetically pleasing. The double-height dining area, for instance, emphasizes openness and connectivity within the home. The design incorporates courtyards, enhancing natural ventilation and light, and providing green spaces within the urban dwelling. The residence features elements like a pantry leading to a terrace, indicating a focus on indoor-outdoor living and functional extensions of living spaces. The staircase designs, some incorporating green oxide finishes, serve as prominent architectural features, connecting different levels of the house. Bay windows in the kids' bedroom overlook courtyards, further reinforcing the connection to nature and thoughtful space planning. The use of wood throughout the interiors, including in furniture and structural elements, contributes to a cohesive design language. Various floor plans (ground, first, second, third, and fourth) are provided, illustrating the spatial organization across multiple levels. These plans suggest a layered approach to living, where distinct zones are created for different family activities while maintaining an overall sense of unity. Elevations and sections offer insights into the building's structural integrity and aesthetic proportions, revealing a commitment to both form and function. The design also emphasizes accessibility and flow, with clear pathways and interconnected spaces. Materials used prominently in the construction include wood and concrete. These choices contribute to the home's aesthetic character and durability, aligning with both traditional and modern construction practices. The combination of these materials allows for a rich textural palette while ensuring structural soundness. The project aims to create a home that is not only visually appealing but also adaptable to the evolving needs of its inhabitants, embodying a sense of heritage through its enduring materials and thoughtful design. #ResidentialArchitecture #GreyscaleDesignStudio #Bengaluru #India #ModernDesign #TraditionalElements #ConcreteArchitecture #WoodInteriors #UrbanHousing

The new Gearbox studio in Montreal, Canada, designed by Patriarche, showcases an innovative approach to office design within challenging architectural parameters. The primary challenge was the building's distinctively long and rectangular floor plan. Patriarche, an agency that practices "augmented architecture" by integrating technical, sociological, and scientific knowledge into its design process, tackled this by employing high color contrasts across walls, ceilings, and furnishings. This strategy serves a dual purpose: it injects energy into the various spaces and aids in wayfinding throughout the office, making it easier for employees and visitors to navigate the expansive layout. The collaboration between Gearbox and Patriarche was a continuation of a successful previous project that had received an award from the Grand Prix du Design, ensuring a high standard of both functionality and aesthetic appeal for the new workplace. The office provides a diverse range of workspaces designed to support different modes of work, accommodating the varied needs of a video game development team. It includes 208 open-space workstations for collaborative or individual tasks, 11 enclosed offices for more private work, 12 dedicated meeting rooms for team discussions and presentations, and 11 lounge areas for relaxation and informal interactions. This variety offers team members the flexibility to choose an environment best suited to their current tasks, promoting productivity and comfort throughout the day. The intentional division of space through color blocking not only creates visually stimulating zones but also subtly guides occupants, ensuring that despite the large and linear floor plan, different functions are clearly delineated and accessible. Beyond functionality, the design draws inspiration from Montreal's Old Port neighborhood, known for its urban and industrial character. Patriarche integrated elements of street art and 90s pop culture into the office environment, moving away from conventional neutral office aesthetics. This creative direction is evident in unexpected details such as stools shaped like tree trunks, a transparent yellow curtain repurposed from a welding workshop, and colored glass doors. These unconventional design choices deliberately reject the notion that office spaces must be bland or understated to foster creativity. Instead, they aim to create an inspiring and dynamic atmosphere that reflects the vibrant and innovative nature of the video game industry, encouraging a more playful and imaginative work environment. The comprehensive design ensures that the Montreal studio is not just a place to work, but a stimulating hub that supports collaboration, focused effort, and creative thinking. #CommercialDesign #OfficeDesign #ColorBlocking #Patriarche #GearboxMontreal #InteriorDesign #WorkplaceInnovation #MontrealArchitecture

Klay Tiles and Facades offers long-format brick slips, an engineered masonry product designed as a lightweight and cost-effective facade solution for architectural projects. These brick slips are sourced from a German manufacturer with over 130 years of experience in producing high-quality masonry products. The manufacturing process ensures durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements over time. Unlike traditional brick faces, which are cut from full bricks and result in waste, Klay’s brick slips are extruded to precise thicknesses ranging from 10 to 14 mm. This extrusion method minimizes material waste, making the product a more sustainable option. The controlled thickness also contributes to the lightweight nature of the slips, making them suitable for buildings with load-bearing structures that might not accommodate the weight of full bricks, such as steel stud frames or precast concrete panels. The Klay Prachtstein series is available in six different colors, providing architects and designers with a range of aesthetic choices to suit various project requirements. One of these colors, Ivory Mist, has been notably featured in a recently completed project on the Sunshine Coast called The Cove, demonstrating the product's application in contemporary architecture. For installation, Klay brick slips can be applied using several fixing systems, including adhesive, rail, or inlay methods. These diverse options allow for flexibility in construction, enabling builders and designers to choose the most appropriate system based on the specific design and structural demands of their projects. The adaptability of these fixing systems ensures that the brick slips can be integrated into a wide array of building types and styles. Klay Tiles and Facades provides detailed product information, including specifications and application guidelines, through its website. Inquiries can be made via email or phone for product details and supply. The company also collaborates with ArchitectureAu Products to inform architects and designers about their offerings through editorial-style formats, facilitating access to product information for industry professionals. This ensures that the product is easily discoverable for those in the architecture and design sectors looking for innovative facade solutions. #KlayTiles #BrickSlips #FacadeSolutions #ArchitecturalProducts #BuildingMaterials #SustainableConstruction #ExteriorDesign #PrachtsteinSeries

Christina Disler has pioneered a unique coworking community in Vancouver named Werklab, transcending traditional notions of work-life balance by integrating wellness and productivity. The 12,000 square-foot facility, located in a renovated 1920s industrial building, emphasizes a holistic approach to work, providing an environment that fosters both mental and physical well-being alongside professional output. The space, characterized by wood beam ceilings, abundant natural light, and natural ventilation, was transformed from a previously open storage room into a sanctuary for its members. Disler leveraged her background in Human Resources and the expertise of her designer/entrepreneur family to meticulously craft an interior that supports various work styles and encourages a balanced lifestyle. The design of Werklab thoughtfully transitions between communal and private zones. The central hub is an open kitchen, featuring a black quartz island, bar seating, and an espresso bar, designed for social interaction. Beyond this, the space offers shared desk areas, well-equipped boardrooms, and a series of private booths for focused work. For permanent members, windowed offices with birch plywood walls are provided, intentionally designed to be 30 inches short of the ceiling to ensure optimal airflow, acoustics, and the distribution of natural light throughout the space. A standout feature of Werklab is the 'Zen Den,' a spacious studio complemented by an adjoining lounge and an aromatherapy bar. This area is dedicated to wellness activities, hosting daily Pilates, yoga, and meditation classes. Additionally, it serves as a venue for educational 'lunch-and-learns' and special events, including panel discussions and sound bath meditations. The Zen Den's design incorporates a modular fourth wall on wheels, allowing it to be closed for quieter classes or opened up to accommodate larger gatherings and events. Attention to detail is evident in elements such as nearly 100 houseplants for air purification, subtle background music, and Vitruvi stone diffusers releasing essential oils, all contributing to a calming atmosphere. The aesthetic of Werklab is defined by a neutral and natural color palette, incorporating greens, tans, and terracottas against whitewashed walls. This deliberate choice aims to create an environment that supports what Disler refers to as different 'flow states,' acknowledging that individuals require varied conditions to perform their best. Disler emphasizes the importance of workspace wellness, stating that everyone eventually encounters a block and that finding a change in perspective, whether through physical movement or a shift in environment, is crucial for fostering a change in mindset. The project's design team includes Christina Disler, Willi Disler, and Jamie Gerus, with construction by Pacific Pielak Projects and photography by Britney Gill Photography. #CoworkingSpace #WellnessDesign #OfficeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #SustainableDesign #WorkLifeBalance #VancouverDesign #ZenDen #ProductivityEnvironment

Acme Brick, Tile and Stone's Pelham location in Alabama features the largest brick and tile showroom in the Birmingham area, serving seven counties and surrounding regions. The 4,000-square-foot showroom displays a comprehensive range of products for residential and commercial construction, including various brick samples, natural stone, simulated stone, and limestone fireplace surrounds. The selection also includes specialized items such as Isokern fireplaces, clay and concrete pavers, and diverse patio products. Beyond exterior and structural materials, the showroom offers a high-end flooring section. This area showcases ceramic and porcelain tile, hardwood floors, and natural stone options. The facility also provides installation services for granite, marble, limestone, and quartz countertops, catering to both aesthetic and functional needs within a home or commercial space. For those undertaking DIY projects or professional installations, the store stocks all necessary tools, supplies, cleaners, and sealers. Customers visiting the Pelham location can benefit from the expertise of in-house design professionals. These specialists are available to assist with product selection and design guidance, ensuring that clients find the most suitable materials for their specific project requirements. The store’s extensive product categories include various types of brick (cladding, thin brick, surplus brick), a wide array of flooring options (hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl, tile, mosaics, pavers), and diverse stone products (Majestic Stone, MStone, Stonebrook). Detailed product listings are available, featuring different brick sizes like Modular, Queen, and King, and various textures such as Smooth, Velour, and Wirecut. Color filters are also provided, allowing customers to easily navigate options like Beige, Red, and Bronze. This comprehensive product offering, combined with expert support, positions the Pelham showroom as a central resource for building and design materials in the region. The store's hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with weekends closed. #HomeDesign #BuildingMaterials #Brick #Tile #Stone #Flooring #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #Showroom

The sustainable Clay Plasters Rustic Range by UK brand Clayworks offers a textured surface finish for internal walls and ceilings, designed to emulate the look of concrete, stone, and earth. The product line is a celebration of imperfection, introducing an organic and raw aesthetic to interior spaces. Made entirely from unfired clays and blended with natural pigments and minerals, the Rustic Range is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plasters. This plaster is applied at a thickness of five to 10 millimeters, allowing for a highly textured finish and enabling skilled plasterers to create intricate three-dimensional patterns. Clayworks emphasizes that this material can replicate the popular finishes of materials like concrete without the associated environmental impact. The brand highlights the product's versatility, noting its wide array of textural variations, from delicate to very coarse, and its ability to be carved for unique storytelling effects. A key aspect of the Clay Plasters Rustic Range is its environmental sustainability. The use of natural materials ensures that the plaster is compostable, free from toxic ingredients, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and formaldehyde. Beyond its aesthetic and ecological benefits, the plaster also offers practical advantages for interior environments. It is easy to repair, possesses sound-absorbing qualities, and contributes to regulating the humidity and temperature within a space, enhancing overall comfort and indoor air quality. Clayworks is featured in Dezeen Showroom, an initiative that provides a platform for brands to showcase new products and highlight their designs and projects to a global audience interested in architecture and design. This particular product exemplifies a commitment to sustainable design, offering both aesthetic flexibility and environmental responsibility for contemporary interiors. The range aims to bring a touch of natural, rugged beauty into modern living and commercial spaces. #ClayPlasters #Clayworks #SustainableDesign #InteriorSurfacing #TexturedWalls #EcoFriendlyMaterials #NaturalPigments #ArchitecturalFinishes #DezeenShowroom

The Acme Brick, Tile and Stone location in Florence serves the entire Florence and Tri-Cities metropolitan area, offering a comprehensive range of building materials for residential and commercial projects. This outlet provides a wide selection of bricks from various manufacturers, including Acme Brick, Belden Brick, Old Carolina Brick, Cherokee Brick, Columbus Brick, Lawrenceville Brick, Lee Brick, Meridian Brick, Palmetto Brick, Pine Hall Brick, Ragland Clay, and Sioux City Brick. Customers can choose from different brick sizes such as King, Queen, and Modular, as well as Thin Brick and surplus inventory options. Beyond bricks, the Florence showroom features an extensive collection of flooring materials, including hardwood and tile sourced globally. It also offers a variety of stone products, including cast stone and natural stone from numerous manufacturers and suppliers like Coronado Stone, Horizon Stone, MStone, Majestic Stone, ProVia Stone, and Stonebrook Thin Veneer. The facility also showcases architectural features such as cladding, fireplaces, glass accents, and iron doors. For outdoor living spaces, the Florence location provides outdoor furniture, pool coping, turf, grills, kitchen components, and outdoor heaters. These offerings allow customers to create integrated culinary and entertainment areas. Acme Brick, Tile and Stone in Florence is committed to providing resources and support for architects, designers, and builders. This includes architectural services, environmental product declarations (EPD), innovative building products, and a project inspiration gallery. Technical resources like the Pocket Guide to Brick Construction and Technical Services Digests are also available, alongside Health Product Declarations (HPD). Educational and support services include continuing education programs, case studies, and access to The Acme Technical Center. The company also offers virtual reality tools such as Virtual Mason, Masonry Designer, and Revit for design visualization. The showroom highlights a variety of specific brick products, including Abbeville – Queen – Heritage, Academy – Modular – Heritage, Aden Blend – Queen – Heritage, Adobe Wells – King – Heritage, Allendale – King – Heritage, Allendale Rustic – Queen – Heritage, Allentown – King – Velour, Allentown – Modular – Velour, Alluvial Light – Modular – Ruff, Alluvial Light – Modular – Velour, Alluvial Medium – Modular – Ruff, Alluvial Medium – Modular – Velour, Alpine – King – Heritage, Amaretto – Estate – Velour, Amaretto – King – Velour, Amaretto – Modular – Velour, Americana – Modular – Heritage, and Ansley Park – Modular – Heritage. The store operates Monday through Friday, with Saturdays and Sundays being closed. Detailed store information indicates a focus on providing diverse options for both indoor and outdoor applications, catering to various design preferences and construction needs. #BuildingMaterials #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #ConstructionSupplies #Flooring #StoneProducts #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalFeatures

This article highlights ten interior spaces that utilize custom plaster wall finishes by the British brand Clayworks to create visual interest and unique atmospheres. Clayworks emphasizes the transformative potential of clay plasters, stating they can elevate ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences through their aesthetic opportunities and the integration of contemporary material science. The featured projects showcase a diverse range of applications and finishes, demonstrating the versatility of Clayworks' products in various settings, including residential homes, hotels, shops, and offices. One featured project is the Gold Flake Demi Rustic finishes at Hundred Acre Wood House in the UK. Designed by Denizen Works, this residential space incorporates minerals resembling gold flakes into Clayworks' Demi Rustic clay plaster. The resulting seamless, light-diffusing wall surface adds depth and intrigue to the interior, providing a robust finish that complements the monumental scale of the house in Loch Awe, Scotland. Another example is The Teahouse in the UK, a collaboration between Clayworks and Sasa Works. This space, unveiled at the 2023 Surface Design Show, demonstrates the harmonious relationship between natural and handcrafted materials. Here, Rammed Earth and Fading Straw Arakabe Ombre finishes are used to create an atmosphere of balance and tranquility within the teahouse setting. The Red Room at The Connaught Hotel in Mayfair, London, designed by Bryan O'Sullivan Studio, features a striking red-to-orange clay plaster gradient. Clayworks’ technical team meticulously researched and developed several pigment proposals to achieve this fiery color ombre, creating a distinctive and luxurious ambiance within the hotel bar. For the Oro de Cacao chocolate shop in Zurich, Switzerland, by Moser Wegenstein, Clayworks developed custom pink ombre wall finishes. These finishes, made from natural minerals and pigments, exhibit a dual fade: a color transition from deep to light pink, coupled with a texture gradient from rough plaster at the top to a softer finish at the bottom, enhancing the shop's aesthetic. The Fellow coffee retail shop in Los Angeles, USA, designed by Studio Mai, utilizes Clayworks’ Rammed Earth surfaces for both walls and display plinths. The custom Rammed Earth design for this interior references California's geography, aiming to create a unique and immersive shopping experience for customers. At the Gaucho restaurant in Glasgow, Scotland, designed by Design LSM, a tough-textured rammed earth surface with grey, sand, and red hues evokes the Pampas landscapes of Argentina. This earthen feature wall contributes to a calming and comforting multi-sensory dining experience. The Room2 hotel in Chiswick, London, which claimed to be the world's first whole-life, net-zero carbon hotel upon its 2021 opening, incorporates Clayworks’ clay wall surfaces in an ombre terracotta-colored finish. These finishes were chosen for their low-carbon qualities, owing to their raw and unprocessed state, aligning with the hotel's sustainable design principles. The Self-Portrait Kings Road store in the UK, a collaboration between Self-Portrait founder Han Chong and architect Andreas Kostopoulos, features mint green clay walls with limewash-like markings and custom corrugated textures. This design leverages minimalism, materiality, and color to create an intimate, sensory retail environment free from visual distractions. In the Fulton Avenue home in Los Angeles, USA, designed by Diaz and Alexander Studio, a custom slim corrugated clay plaster was applied as a feature wall in several rooms. This addition introduces texture and irregularity, complementing the home’s soft, neutral tones and raw materials, and enhancing the residential interior. Finally, the CBRE Offices in Glasgow, UK, utilize Clayworks’ Rammed Earth collection, made from natural clay, minerals, and sand. The 10-millimeter-thick surface was applied to office walls to integrate the aesthetics of raw earth into an urban workspace, while also improving the acoustic and thermal performance of the space. #Clayworks #TexturedWallFinishes #InteriorDesign #RammedEarth #ClayPlaster #OmbreWalls #SustainableMaterials #ArchitecturalFinishes #ResidentialInteriors

The article details the design of Black Kite's new London office by the architecture studio Bureau de Change. Black Kite, an independent visual effects and design studio located in East London, commissioned Bureau de Change founders Katerina Dionysopoulou and Billy Mavropoulos to create an uplifting workspace. The design concept centers on the use of colour and shape, specifically a series of intersecting and carved-out cylindrical volumes. These cylindrical forms are not merely decorative but serve a functional purpose in enhancing workspace utility. They are strategically integrated to create varying degrees of privacy within the office layout. This includes generating quiet reading nooks, open gathering spaces, individual desk booths, and discreetly positioned meeting areas. The architects aimed to balance modern design elements with the site's historical context. Bureau de Change's design respectfully incorporates the industrial heritage of the East End location. The abstract round shapes within the floorplan are reminiscent of traditional iron kilns, referencing the area's past. This historical nod is further reinforced by the retention of an existing grid system of slim, internal exposed concrete columns and a restrained material palette. The deliberate juxtaposition of contemporary furniture with the rough, industrial atmosphere creates an environment that is both pared-down and warm. Katerina Dionysopoulou explained that the scheme extracts and interpolates volumes and motifs from traditional Victorian foundries and kilns to create a gradient of spaces, ranging from introverted to extroverted. This design language ensures seamless integration throughout the office. The studio also addressed Black Kite's specific operational needs, particularly for production and visual effects suites that require isolation from external light and sound. The building's tall ceilings and generous proportions accommodate these enclosed sections effectively. The tactile qualities and finishes of the materials were also a critical aspect of the design. Billy Mavropoulos noted that each cylindrical volume is clad in painted routed timber surfaces, a detail inspired by the vertical seams found on traditional iron kilns. The carved-out sections within these cylinders are finished with a rough clay plaster. This choice of material creates a deliberate contrast, setting the sharp articulation of the cylinders against warm, cave-like textures, thereby enriching the spatial experience through a journey of materials, textures, and colours. #OfficeArchitecture #LondonDesign #BureauDeChange #InteriorDesign #WorkspaceDesign #ColourfulOffice #ArchitecturalInnovation #AdaptiveReuse

Particular Tile, a Montrose-based company, is transforming excess clay sediment from the Paonia Reservoir in western Colorado into hand-cut ceramic tiles. This innovative approach addresses two environmental problems: the shrinking capacity of the reservoir due to sediment accumulation and methane emissions from nearby abandoned coal mines. Christopher Caskey, a scientist and founder of Delta Brick & Climate Company (which includes Particular Tile), developed this sustainable business model. The Paonia Reservoir, constructed in 1962, has lost over a quarter of its storage capacity, impacting crucial water supplies for local agriculture. Simultaneously, abandoned coal mines in the vicinity release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Caskey's vision was to utilize the high-quality clay sediment from the reservoir to create a product, while eventually powering the tile production with captured methane from the mines. This dual solution aims to mitigate environmental damage and create a valuable resource. The tiles, marketed under the brand Particular Tile, are characterized by a rich terra-cotta base color, derived from the natural iron content of the clay. They are offered at a price point starting from $30 per square foot and come in a variety of shapes and over 50 glaze hues, with customization options available. These tiles are designed for applications such as showers, backsplashes, and floors, providing a high-end aesthetic. The appeal of these products is enhanced by their positive environmental impact, as their production contributes to the ecological restoration of the region, even if on a smaller scale compared to the overall environmental challenges. Caskey acknowledges that while the company's efforts are not a complete solution to the climate crisis, they represent a step towards more sustainable practices and a shift in how communities interact with industrial sites after their primary purpose has ended. The manufacturing process of Particular Tile involves several distinct stages. The first step, "Remove," entails extracting the sediment from mud flats exposed during the annual draining of the reservoir, which is then transported to the factory. Following this, in the "Mix & Prep" stage, water and grog (a type of coarse sand) are added to the sediment and processed using specialized machinery. This enhances the material's texture and durability. The "Cut and Dry" phase involves hand-punching shapes into the clay, akin to using cookie cutters, followed by hand-trimming and a drying period of at least a week to prevent cracking or warping. Next, the tiles undergo a "Bisque Fire & Glaze" process, where they are fired in kilns at nearly 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit to fuse the clay particles into water-resistant ceramic, after which a glaze is applied. The final stage, "Glaze Fire," involves a second kiln heating, which melts the glaze into a colored glass layer on the tile's surface. Particular Tile products are available through Decorative Materials showrooms and direct orders via their website. #SustainableManufacturing #CeramicTile #ReservoirSediment #MethaneCapture #EnvironmentalInnovation #HomeDesign #ColoradoBusiness #EcoFriendlyProducts

The online tile retailer clé has unveiled its new Artist Cement Collection, a series of handmade encaustic cement tiles. This collection is a collaborative effort, featuring designs from eleven artist studios spanning Europe, South America, and the United States. The curated group of artists, architects, designers, and sculptors includes ALT for Living, Boris Aldridge, Coletivo Muda, Deborah Osburn, Erica Tanov, Gachot Studios, John Whitmarsh, Michelle Weinberg, Ruan Hoffmann, Sarah & Ruby, and Smink Things. The Artist Cement Collection showcases a diverse range of aesthetic styles, moving from bold, graphic geometric patterns to motifs inspired by nature, and even incorporating typography. Each tile is available in 8-inch by 8-inch square and hexagonal formats, offering flexibility in design application. A key feature of these tiles is their pre-polished and pre-sealed finish, which enhances their durability and versatility. This treatment makes them suitable for a wide array of applications, both indoors and outdoors, and for installation on either walls or floors, expanding their potential use in various architectural and interior design projects. Among the featured designs, Coletivo Muda contributes the 'Lagoa' tile, which appears multiple times in the illustrations, highlighting its distinct appeal. Michelle Weinberg's contributions include 'Pattern 1' and 'Pattern 2,' demonstrating a varied artistic approach. Smink Things presents several designs that bear its studio name, indicating a unique and recognizable style. Ruan Hoffmann offers a selection of patterns, including 'Amsterdam Express,' 'Arrow Dynamic,' and 'Bio Circuit,' each bringing a different visual narrative to the collection. Deborah Osburn's 'Manuscript Letters' introduces a textual element, adding another dimension to the tile offerings. Boris Aldridge provides 'Pattern 4' and 'Pattern 5,' showcasing his design philosophy. Gachot Studios also features 'Pattern 4,' suggesting a potentially different interpretation or variation from Aldridge's similarly named pattern. Erica Tanov presents 'Baccio' and 'Jacobson,' contributing unique artistic expressions. Finally, Sarah and Ruby's 'Pattern 5' completes the selection of artists and their designs, ensuring a rich and diverse collection for consumers and designers. The collection emphasizes both artistic expression and practical application. The use of cement as a medium for these artistic designs provides a tactile and durable surface, while the handcrafted nature of the tiles ensures uniqueness in each piece. The curated selection of artists from various global locations brings a wide spectrum of cultural and artistic influences to the collection, allowing for a broad appeal across different design preferences and styles. The collection aims to provide distinctive and high-quality options for residential and commercial spaces, allowing for personalization and artistic flair in surface design. #CementTiles #ArtistDesigned #EncausticTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileCollection #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HandmadeTiles #GlobalArtists

Acme Brick in Shreveport/Bossier City has been a cornerstone of the building materials industry in the region since its establishment in 1929. The company's Shreveport location relocated to Kings Highway in the mid-1980s, primarily to accommodate the expansion of the I-49 project, a strategic move that enhanced accessibility and operational capacity. This branch of Acme Brick serves a wide geographical area, extending its delivery services to seven parishes. Its coverage spans as far east as the Lincoln Parish line and reaches west to the Texas state line, while also extending north to the Arkansas state line and south to the Vernon Parish line, demonstrating a significant regional footprint. The Shreveport showroom showcases a diverse array of building and home finishing materials, catering to both residential and commercial clients. The selection includes various types of brick, paving materials, natural and manufactured stone, and an extensive range of tile options. For interior applications, the showroom features wood flooring, offering a classic and durable choice. Beyond foundational and surface materials, Acme Brick Shreveport also provides products for enhancing living spaces, such as fireplaces, which serve as focal points in many homes, and outdoor kitchen products, which are increasingly popular for modern outdoor living areas. This comprehensive product offering positions the store as a one-stop-shop for numerous construction and renovation needs. Key product categories available include Brick, Cladding, Clay Pavers, Hardwood, Laminate, Luxury Vinyl, Miscellaneous Pavers, Stone, Surplus Brick, Thin Brick, and Tile. The extensive inventory of brick encompasses different sizes like King Size, Queen Size, and Modular Size, along with specialized Thin Brick and Surplus Inventory options. For flooring, customers can choose from a variety of materials beyond brick, including ceramic and porcelain Tile, natural Stone, and Wood options like hardwood and luxury vinyl plank. The store also specializes in various types of stone products, such as Cast Stone, Coronado Stone, Horizon Stone, MStone, Majestic Stone, ProVia Stone, and Stonebrook Thin Veneer, providing options for both structural and decorative applications. Architectural features are another area of expertise, with products like cladding, fireplaces, glass accents, and iron doors available to add distinctive touches to a building's design. The outdoor living section features furniture, pool coping, and turf, helping customers create functional and aesthetically pleasing exterior spaces. Furthermore, culinary spaces are addressed with grills and full outdoor kitchens, alongside outdoor heaters. Acme Brick Shreveport's product catalog is designed to inspire and facilitate building and renovation projects, showcasing real-world applications of their materials. The availability of products in various textures, colors, and finishes allows for a high degree of customization, enabling customers to achieve specific design visions. The facility's operational hours are Monday through Friday, with the showroom closed on Saturdays and Sundays. The company's long-standing presence and extensive service area underscore its commitment to providing quality building materials and comprehensive support to its clientele in the Shreveport/Bossier City region and beyond. #BuildingMaterials #HomeDesign #Construction #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #Brick #Stone #Tile #Flooring

The article presents Jennifer Moore's 20-year career experience across various office environments, including financial services, tech, and SaaS sectors. Her journey began in 2003 as a summer intern, working from a small desk in a hallway, initially feeling envious of another intern who had a cubicle. Over the years, Moore has experienced working in high-walled cubicles, open-plan offices, and private offices, forming distinct opinions on the advantages and disadvantages of each. Moore notes that cubicles offer benefits such as privacy for deep work and one-on-one conversations. She recalls an instance in 2006 while working at Wells Fargo where the privacy of her cubicle was a 'blessing' during a personal crisis. However, cubicles also presented significant drawbacks, including isolation and a lack of natural light. She observed that only senior executives had offices with windows, clearly delineating hierarchy within the workplace. Her first experience with a private office in 2015, after achieving a product management role in financial services, was unexpectedly negative. Despite the perceived prestige and a budget for office furniture, she found the environment 'miserable.' The office lacked natural light, relying on dim fluorescent lighting, and its isolated location meant minimal foot traffic, contributing to feelings of depression and isolation. Moore emphasized that she could spend an entire day without interacting with anyone. The only perceived benefit of the private office was the ability to perform physical therapy stretches in complete privacy. This experience led her to conclude that the overall workplace environment and its encouragement of teamwork and collaboration are more crucial than the status associated with a private office. After leaving her previous company in December 2023, Moore started her own consulting business and now works in a coworking space. This space features an open-floor plan augmented with conference rooms, telephone booths, and various seating areas. She identifies open-plan offices as the superior choice for a modern workplace, particularly when combined with elements that provide privacy, such as soundproof booths for focused work or sensitive conversations. Moore highlights that open-plan offices can accommodate diverse work needs, including deep work, collaboration, and various meeting types, while also offering the significant advantage of natural light to a broader range of employees, unlike traditional office setups where window access is often reserved for senior staff. She also points out that cubicles consume considerable real estate, limiting the flexibility to create varied workspaces. #OfficeLayouts #OpenPlanOffice #Cubicles #WorkplaceEnvironment #Productivity #EmployeeWellbeing #CoworkingSpace #CareerExperience #FinancialServices