Heirlooms in Concrete / Greyscale Design Studio

This blog post showcases ten living rooms from the Dezeen archive that feature concrete as a central design element. Typically considered a structural material, concrete is used in various ways to introduce textural interest and an industrial aesthetic into interior spaces. Each example highlights unique applications of concrete, ranging from accent walls and built-in furniture to structural dividers and entire room finishes. The first example, Casa Castaños in Argentina by María Belén García Bottazzini and Ekaterina Künzel, utilizes a board-formed concrete chimney breast to partially divide the living area from the dining space in a broken-plan arrangement. A linear concrete surface extends from the chimney, forming a shelf for a television. This design demonstrates how concrete can define zones within an open-plan layout while also serving a functional purpose. The Pedro Reyes House in Mexico, designed by Pedro Reyes and Carla Fernandez, incorporates concrete in various textures, drawing inspiration from brutalist architecture. A double-height living area features a prominent concrete bookcase that also functions as a staircase, with cantilevered steps leading to a raised gallery. This illustrates concrete's versatility in creating sculptural and multi-functional architectural features. In A Forest House in Ecuador by Jarrín, exposed concrete, steel, and brick are integral to the interior. The concrete ceiling, with its relief-style impressions, is a key focal point, complemented by large concrete columns and unfinished exterior-facing concrete walls, creating a distinctive industrial aesthetic throughout the space. Courtyard House in the US by No Architecture features a minimalist interior where concrete covers both walls and floors. The material palette is kept sparse, with wood-framed clerestory windows adding a contrasting element. This project exemplifies how concrete can form a serene and understated backdrop, enhancing the architectural purity of a space. UF Haus in Germany by SoHo Architektur, an abbreviation for "unfinished," intentionally uses materials left in their raw state. The main living area, positioned at the building's core, is beneath a double-height space. Light grey concrete walls and a long concrete bench along one wall emphasize the raw, industrial character, while a walkway above overlooks the living area, connecting to the bedrooms. The holiday home in Iceland by Gláma Kím features an open-plan living area framed by a large concrete volume that separates sleeping areas from shared spaces and houses a log-burning fireplace. The dark grey pigment of this concrete volume contrasts with the light cedar-lined walls and ceilings, showcasing concrete's ability to create dramatic focal points and material contrasts. Casa Estudio in Mexico by Manuel Cervantes, a five-storey home built into a hillside, uses a large, exposed board-formed concrete wall that runs through the house, unifying staggered spaces. Stone steps adjacent to this wall lead to dark lava-stone floors, creating a cohesive and earthy material palette. The furniture is kept low and modular, complementing the robust materiality. Casa Meco in Portugal by Atelier Rua features a large communal living space with a board-marked concrete ceiling that extends downward to form a concrete trim. Smooth concrete floors provide a neutral base for elegant furnishings, highlighting the material's capacity to create both refined and raw finishes within the same space. Residence in Kato Kifissia, Greece, by Tense Architecture Network, incorporates a sunken living space floored with grey basalt cobbles. Concrete columns surround this area, framing large glazed floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the garden. This design integrates concrete with natural stone and glass to create a sophisticated and harmonious indoor-outdoor connection. Finally, the Tea House in China by Archi-Union features twisting board-formed concrete walls that envelop the living space, creating a cave-like atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a terrace and gardens, demonstrating how concrete can be molded into dynamic, sculptural forms that interact with the surrounding environment while providing privacy and a unique spatial experience. #Concrete #LivingRooms #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalConcrete #Brutalism #TexturalInterest #ModernInteriors #HomeDesign

Concrete, a material historically appreciated and occasionally avoided for its association with brutalism, is experiencing a resurgence in contemporary architecture and interior design. Originating with mortar in 1750 and seeing reinforced structures by 1900, concrete has been a foundational element in iconic architectural works by figures such as Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn. Today, new techniques have elevated concrete from a mere substructure to a celebrated aesthetic element, appearing in facades, flooring, and furniture in award-winning homes. Integrating concrete into a home can be achieved through architectural elements. Its durability and ease of cleaning make it suitable for kitchen islands and bathroom vanities. Interior designer Tamsin Johnson highlights its hardiness for benchtops, noting its ability to be both subtle and impactful depending on its detailing. Concrete can introduce either a soft or a hard edge to an interior, with Johnson appreciating its low-key tone that allows other design features to stand out. Architect Madeleine Blanchfield emphasizes concrete's unique seamlessness, unlimited by size or shape, and its capacity to be imprinted with various textures or patterns, contributing a bespoke quality to each piece with its natural patina and air bubbles. For walls, beautifully finished concrete adds inherent interest both internally and externally. John Bornas, director of Workroom, explains that careful detailing can transform concrete from an industrial material into an invaluable layer within a home. Whether cast on-site or precast, a high-quality finish often means leaving the concrete unpainted, allowing the construction markings to serve as decoration. Once perceived as cold or monastic, concrete now features in playful and decorative interiors, with Aaron Roberts of Edition Office valuing its plasticity and textural qualities. The aesthetic of off-form concrete can vary from smooth (using steel or plywood) to textured (using timber boards or corrugated sheeting). Precast concrete, cured in reusable molds off-site, offers advantages in material quality control and cost-effectiveness compared to site-specific formwork. While concrete can be a cost-effective building material for many applications, achieving a high-quality finish requires skilled craftsmen. Although initial costs for elements like off-form concrete columns can be high, they are finished items requiring little further work, making them durable and low-maintenance over time. However, concrete is prone to "concrete cancer," the corrosion of internal steel reinforcement, which can compromise structural integrity if not addressed. This issue can be caused by poor waterproofing, saltwater exposure, weather, and ground movement. Maintenance involves sealing decorative surfaces due to concrete's porous nature, and promptly repairing cracks to prevent water penetration. Daily cleaning typically involves warm water and dishwashing liquid; baking soda can be added for tougher stains. Harsh chemicals like vinegar should be avoided as they can damage the concrete. Floors can be repolished to restore their original appearance. Concrete flooring has moved beyond warehouse conversions to become a popular choice in residential settings. Despite a common perception of being cold, architects like John Bornas find it to be quite the opposite when incorporated correctly. It is comparable to timber in cost but superior in high-traffic areas, offering elegance, robustness, practicality, and resistance to fire and flood. Concrete floors can be polished to various degrees, from a heavy polish revealing more aggregate to a perfectly smooth steel trowel finish. Other finishing options include epoxy coating in various shades or colored concrete achieved by adding pigment before or after pouring. When considering thermal properties, concrete is a cold surface, and while heating can be integrated in new builds, it's advisable to insulate against heat loss to maximize its thermal mass capabilities, especially in darker rooms. Overall, the advantages of concrete, such as its durability, flexibility in design, and readily available ingredients, generally outweigh its disadvantages. Its ability to be cast into almost any shape offers immense design freedom. Despite the curing time adding to project timelines and the potential for concrete cancer, its long-term low maintenance and structural integrity make it a versatile and increasingly sought-after material in modern home design. #ConcreteDesign #ArchitecturalElements #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BuildingMaterials #ConcreteFlooring #ContemporaryArchitecture #SustainableDesign

The 'House of Heights' project, designed by Idam Design Studio and completed in 2023, is located in Kayamkulam, India, spanning an area of 285 square meters. This residential architecture project emphasizes the profound impact of design on relationships and overall well-being within a household. The core philosophy behind the house posits that a dwelling can significantly transform its occupants, highlighting the living room as a central space for social interaction and emotional expression. The design of the house integrates specific features to foster a sense of connection and openness. The living room, characterized by its notable height, is designed as an open arena for daily conversations and family gatherings, underscoring its role as the most frequently used and social space in the home. This architectural choice aims to create an environment that facilitates constant communication and strengthens familial bonds. The project documentation includes various photographic views, such as exterior shots showcasing the garden and interior views detailing the dining room and kitchen, often featuring wood as a prominent material. Several images illustrate the spatial qualities of the house, including interior photographs that highlight the careful consideration of lighting and furniture, such as sofas and chairs, within the living room and bedroom areas. Exterior photography captures the overall aesthetic, including a courtyard, further illustrating the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The project utilizes materials such as concrete and brick, which are common in residential construction and contribute to the house's structural integrity and aesthetic. The design also incorporates detailed plans, including a site plan, ground floor plan, and first-floor plan, alongside sections and elevations, providing a comprehensive understanding of its layout and structure. The 'House of Heights' reflects contemporary architectural practices that prioritize user experience and well-being. By focusing on the functional and emotional aspects of living spaces, the design seeks to create a home that is not merely a shelter but a catalyst for positive interactions among its residents. The project details were curated by Hana Abdel, with photographs taken by Out Of Focus, ensuring a thorough visual representation of the completed work. Manufacturers like Hafele, Jaquar, Kajaria, and Nuvocotto contributed to the project with their products. The project was led by architects Jishnu Vijay, Govind S Mohan, and Prijith Vijayan from Idam Design Studio. The use of specific materials and the thoughtful arrangement of spaces are integral to the design's success, supporting the idea that a home's architecture can influence the daily lives and relationships of its inhabitants. This project is categorized under residential architecture, specifically as a house, and is recognized as a 'Built Project' and a 'Selected Project' within the architectural community. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #IdamDesignStudio #KayamkulamIndia #ArchitecturalPhotography #InteriorDesign #ConcreteBrick #WellbeingInDesign

This lookbook showcases eight living rooms that utilize board-marked concrete to introduce textural interest and a unique aesthetic. Board-marked concrete, or board-formed concrete, is a technique where timber boards are used during the casting process, imprinting the wood's pattern onto the concrete surface. This method results in a more organic and less industrial appearance compared to smooth concrete. The featured interiors demonstrate the versatility of board-marked concrete as a stylish backdrop. One example is Casa Meco in Portugal, designed by Atelier Rua. This holiday home features a large living room with board-marked concrete walls and ceiling, complemented by a stone floor and furniture in earthy tones, creating a natural ambiance. In Mexico, Ludwig Godefroy's Casa Alférez is a brutalist holiday home constructed entirely from board-formed concrete. The material defines a double-height living space that surrounds a green conversation pit. Similarly, the Pedro Reyes House in Mexico City, designed by architect Pedro Reyes, incorporates coarse concrete for a staircase and library within the living room, alongside an irregularly paved stone floor and abundant greenery. OFIS Arhitekti's Villa Eternal Way in Slovenia features an entire entrance floor dedicated to a living room with board-formed concrete walls and ceiling. This grey concrete is juxtaposed with black cupboards and soft textures from a boucle sofa and leather dining chairs. IGArchitects in Japan designed the Building Frame of the House, where exposed board-marked concrete walls support stepped mezzanine levels, allowing for flexible living and working spaces within what is conceived as "one big room." The AT House in Oaxtepec, Mexico, by Laurent Herbiet, is characterized by 10 glazed sections separated by board-marked concrete walls. The living room maintains a warm, muted palette, enhanced by wooden furniture. Design ni Dukaan's "citadel-like" house in Gujarat, India, features a board-formed concrete ceiling in its formal living and dining room, which opens to a central courtyard. This tactile ceiling is paired with a polished floor and a sculptural coffee table. Finally, Casa Golf in Argentina, by Luciano Kruk, presents a living room dominated by a pale grey palette. Board-marked concrete covers the ceiling and walls, harmonizing with a polished stone floor and mid-century modern furniture, including an Isamu Noguchi coffee table and Eames chairs. These diverse projects illustrate how board-marked concrete can be integrated into various residential designs to create distinctive and visually engaging living environments, moving beyond its industrial connotations to offer tactile and aesthetic depth. #BoardMarkedConcrete #LivingRoomDesign #ConcreteInteriors #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDetails #TactileMaterials

The Agarwal family's Ahmedabad duplex, designed by Marigold Interiors, embodies a dual aesthetic: a 'zany' upper level for entertaining and a 'zen' lower level for tranquility. This unique vision originated from brothers Yash and Jai and their father Devendra, who sought to combine vibrant social spaces with peaceful retreats. Initially, the family acquired two unconnected apartments in an Ahmedabad high-rise, necessitating the integration of a staircase where none existed. Architect Kshama Parmar of Marigold Interiors addressed this challenge by converting two existing storerooms into a stairwell. The resulting staircase, asymmetrical and cast in solid concrete, features gentle curves that influenced the design of subsequent furniture and decor. This curvilinear theme is evident in the rounded rectangular dining table, arched-back chairs, a live-edge table, and the artworks throughout the space. The design incorporates practical and aesthetic considerations, such as the use of Kota stone flooring, which holds sentimental value for the family, having been a feature of their childhood home for forty years. This material, with its cool touch and glistening speckles, played a role in shaping the home's primary color palette. The downstairs area predominantly features various shades of grey, interspersed with white or wood accents, creating a calming sanctuary. Arches strategically placed within the design act as visual portals, enhancing the sense of transition and exploration within the home. Each room within the duplex is meticulously designed to reflect the individuality of its occupant. For instance, the primary bedroom showcases an eclectic mix of decor, softened by beige limewash-finish walls and abundant textures. Distressed furniture and pastel floral upholstery contribute to a timeless, evocative ambiance. In contrast, Yash's personal space utilizes a raw plaster texture, while Jai's incorporates European design elements. The fourth bedroom, designated as a versatile guest suite, features sweeping French windows and a discreetly hidden television nook. The upcycling of leftover Kota stone for panelling in the TV room further demonstrates a thoughtful approach to material use and sustainability. This duplex successfully merges cherished memories of the past with a forward-looking design. The careful selection of materials, the innovative integration of a staircase, and the personalized design of each living space reflect a comprehensive approach to creating a home that is both functional and deeply personal, catering to diverse needs for social engagement and peaceful introspection. #AhmedabadHomes #DuplexDesign #MarigoldInteriors #IndianArchitecture #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ResidentialDesign #KotaStone #CurvilinearDesign

Concrete floors are a popular choice for contemporary interiors, offering a sleek and industrial aesthetic. However, their cool-toned and often unpredictable nature can make selecting complementary wall colors a nuanced task. This article explores expert recommendations for wall color pairings that harmonize with concrete flooring, focusing on enhancing its unique characteristics and creating a balanced living space. Concrete's inherent irregularities and inconsistencies contribute to its unique appeal. Interior designers emphasize the importance of highlighting these features rather than concealing them. A key consideration when working with concrete is its tendency to take on the opposite color of surrounding elements. For instance, a bright blue wall might cause the concrete to appear orange, underscoring the need for careful color testing and thoughtful integration within the overall design scheme. One of the most common and effective pairings for concrete floors is white. When opting for white walls, it is crucial to select the correct shade to maintain cohesive temperature. Warm concrete grays should be matched with warm whites, while cool-toned concrete benefits from crisper, cooler whites. Creamy white paints, such as Benjamin Moore's Simply White, can introduce warmth into a space that might otherwise feel stark due to the sleekness of concrete. To prevent a minimalist white and concrete scheme from becoming uninteresting, incorporating textures through furniture and soft furnishings like boucle, tweed, or sheepskin is recommended. Designers advise against whites with gray, blue, or green undertones when aiming for contrast with concrete. Wood tones are highly recommended by designers for their ability to introduce warmth and softness, creating a compelling contrast with the hard, gray qualities of concrete. This combination is lauded for its natural feel and complementary nature. White oak, with its warm undertones, is a particularly easy choice. The selection of wood should also consider the concrete's undertones; for warm concrete, lighter woods on ceilings and walls prevent a blue, cool appearance. Alternatively, warm, earthy paint colors with low contrast can mimic the effect of wood, providing a gentle visual relief that makes a space more inviting and less fatiguing to the eyes. While sharing a similar hue, gray walls can work with concrete floors to create cool, contemporary spaces. This pairing is ideal for those not seeking a warm, cocooning ambiance. For example, blue-gray cabinets, complemented by tiling with gray grouting, can offer a subtle contrast to warmer concrete, as seen in modern kitchen designs. The overall palette can be kept neutral and warm with oak accents and warm whites, with colorful accessories adding vibrancy. Blue is another color that effectively pairs with concrete. Embracing concrete's complementary tones, particularly its cool hue, can lead to dynamic results. Blues, greens, and darker maroons are cited as colors that enhance concrete's natural tone. Brighter blues, especially when incorporated through patterned wallpaper, can create a fresh and surprising contrast with warmer concrete floors, making a strong statement in entryways or other spaces. Yellow provides a dynamic, warm, and playful contrast to concrete. Given that gray and yellow are complementary colors, this combination can be particularly striking. Yellow can be introduced through wall paint, tiles in bathrooms, or even kitchen cabinetry. Saturated hues, in general, can create a strong dynamic contrast with concrete, making colors appear richer due to the concrete's unsaturated, gray backdrop. Pink, a softer pairing, also complements concrete, especially paler or earthier shades, to create soothing effects, particularly in bedrooms. Pink plaster or pink kitchen cabinetry, accented with gold hardware and soft woods, can create a balanced and sophisticated scheme. For colored concrete floors, it is generally advised to stick to neutral walls, typically white, ensuring the shade matches the floor's undertones. Alternatively, a tonally lighter shade than the flooring can add subtle depth without introducing new colors. For a bold, cohesive look, carrying the same color as the concrete up the walls and woodwork creates a cozy, cocooning, and trendy scheme. Finally, the smooth, polished finish of concrete floors serves as an excellent foundation for highly textural wall finishes. Hand-troweled plaster can add warmth and texture, while industrial materials like raw steel can create unexpected pairings. Mixing materials with balanced textural interest, such as concrete, stone, and steel, or juxtaposing indoor materials with natural outdoor elements, can lead to unique and elevated interiors. Pairing concrete with refined materials like marble and handblown glass can also create a sophisticated yet approachable aesthetic. #ConcreteFloors #WallColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPairing #ModernInteriors #IndustrialStyle #DesignTips #TexturalInteriors

This lookbook presents a curated selection of eight minimalist bedrooms that feature exposed concrete surfaces, offering a distinctive aesthetic that challenges traditional warm-toned material palettes often found in bedroom designs. The article highlights how concrete, with its varied textures from rough to sleek, contributes significantly to the character of these modern interiors. The selection aims to provide visual inspiration, showcasing concrete as a versatile material for creating serene and minimalist sleeping spaces. One featured project is The Cabin House in Bangalore, India, by Taliesyn, where the main bedroom on a mezzanine level is entirely encased in concrete surfaces, complemented by wooden furniture to introduce warmth. Another example is Northcote House in Melbourne, Australia, designed by LLDS Architects. This home on a narrow urban plot incorporates textured concrete walls and barrel-vaulted ceilings in its bedrooms, demonstrating concrete's ability to define unique architectural forms. Villain House in Barcelona, Spain, by Architecture Office Claudia Raurell, reimagines a dilapidated townhouse with a new concrete volume. Its interior showcases exposed concrete walls throughout the living and bedroom areas, emphasizing a raw, industrial aesthetic. Pacific House in Sydney, Australia, by Alexander & Co, illustrates how rendered concrete walls and ceilings, paired with oakwood, can create a cohesive and sophisticated living environment that extends into the bedrooms. Casa Alférez in Mexico, a brutalist holiday home by Ludwig Godefroy, features bedrooms set on concrete bases, maintaining the raw concrete structure seen in its exterior. AM House in Long An Province, Vietnam, by Nguyen Huu Duy, Nguyen Duy, and Bui The Long, utilizes board-marked concrete walls and concrete floors, creating wood-imprinted textures that add a natural yet refined feel to the holiday home. Piers Taylor's House in an Olive Grove in Corfu, Greece, reveals a pared-back interior where the reinforced concrete structure is left exposed, contributing to a minimalist and authentic living space, including the bedrooms. Lastly, Building Frame of the House in Tokyo, Japan, by IGArchitects, an open-plan home designed as “one big room,” incorporates board-marked concrete walls offset by wooden floors and metal detailing, showcasing how concrete can structure and define large, multi-functional spaces while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. This collection demonstrates that exposed concrete in bedrooms is not limited to a singular style but can be adapted to various architectural contexts and design preferences, from rough and tactile finishes to smooth and polished surfaces. It offers an alternative to conventional bedroom design, focusing on material honesty and minimalist principles. #ConcreteBedrooms #MinimalistInteriorDesign #ExposedConcrete #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalInteriors #ResidentialArchitecture #ModernBedrooms #Lookbook #InteriorInspiration

This article explores the aesthetic and functional versatility of concrete in modern home design, showcasing eleven distinct residential projects from the archives of *Belle* magazine. Concrete, often perceived as a cold, utilitarian material, is presented here as a sophisticated element that can provide an industrial-chic foundation for diverse interior styles and create a sense of timelessness. The featured homes illustrate various applications of concrete. One example highlights a curvaceous concrete facade designed by Samantha McKenzie and executed by Leeton Pointon architects + interiors, emphasizing a sturdy and sensorial architectural approach. Another project, a beach house conceived by Brett Mickan, incorporates oak and polished concrete stairs, with the concrete tinted a taupe shade to harmonize with the surrounding sandstone cliffs. Fiona Lynch's design for a Williamstown home utilizes poured concrete floors with darker 'pebbles,' creating an unexpected texture and character, in combination with solid oak and stone for longevity. Further examples demonstrate concrete's ability to foster warmth and a zen-like atmosphere when paired with materials like American oak, as seen in a home by Ray Demkiw of Schulberg Demkiw Architects. SLAB Architecture’s space-saving home integrates raw concrete and steel with natural finishes, blurring the lines between exterior and interior materials. A penthouse apartment designed by Adam Haddow and BKH features concrete walls and ceilings complemented by American oak flooring, while Pamela Makin's coastal home employs concrete floors and walls in the bathroom to achieve an industrial-chic aesthetic. Matt Gibson's modernist house combines concrete, stone, timber, and steel to form a robust industrial palette. Architects Kerry Phelan and Stephen Javens transformed a military building’s garage into a home, where concrete plays a subtle role, with a hidden courtyard at the entrance. Neil Cownie’s concrete house utilizes matt cement and ribbed timbers to establish a specific mood. Finally, a home by Luigi Rosselli Architects and Alwill incorporates an elliptical concrete staircase, connecting its three levels and basement garage. Across all these examples, the consistent theme is concrete’s capacity to be both a dominant architectural feature and a harmonious backdrop, proving its adaptability and enduring appeal in contemporary residential architecture. #ConcreteHomes #ModernArchitecture #IndustrialChic #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #ArchitecturalDesign #Materiality #ContemporaryHomes #AustralianDesign #RenovationIdeas

Hailey and Ryan Weller, partners at Concrete Collaborative, undertook a renovation of their 20-year-old home in San Clemente, California, with the goal of creating bright, relaxed spaces for their family and pets. Their primary objective was to lighten the existing dark and dated finishes, infusing a coastal aesthetic inspired by the nearby beach environment. Given their professional background, concrete and terrazzo architectural finishes played a central role in the home's redesign, featuring natural materials reminiscent of sand and rock, abstract patterns suggesting surf culture, and playful color accents. The open-plan ground floor was designed with a neutral palette of whites, creams, and warm grays, serving as a sophisticated foundation for more vibrant elements. Geometric patterned tiles from Concrete Collaborative's Strands x Half Moon collection, designed by Natalie Meyers with a "Scandi-fornian" ethos, were incorporated around the fireplace. The kitchen, characterized by white cabinetry complemented by rattan and timber details, adopted a coastal chic style. Countertops were outfitted with expansive slabs of Concrete Collaborative’s Pacifica extra small marble chip terrazzo, paired with a backsplash from the Strands collection featuring a beige accent that subtly echoed the brass hardware and evoked sandy beaches. Terrazzo tiles were strategically used to establish a seamless flow across the entire ground floor, with their large, rectangular format enhancing the open-plan layout. This design extended to an outdoor entertaining area through large glass doors, facilitating an indoor/outdoor living experience year-round. The outdoor space includes a pool and lounge area paved with Concrete Collaborative Trails pavers and a bar clad in Dwell Tails tiles from the Strands collection, featuring bold, midcentury-inspired colors like Acacia. Additionally, Trestles Circle Breeze Blocks in Beige provided an elevated architectural pattern for a simple block bench. The playful approach to materials and patterns continued into the home's private areas, particularly the four distinct bathrooms. Each bathroom was given a unique character. The guest bathroom, connected to the pool area, aimed for a "lush feeling" using Strands x Dwell collection tiles in Universal Green and Ivory, with color inlaid using the traditional encaustic process for durability. The children’s bathroom adopted a dramatically different palette, featuring a Large Pink Chip terrazzo on the floors and pink striped Strands tiles on the shower walls, balanced with black hardware and a black speckled basin to avoid a overly cutesy appearance. Overall, the renovation successfully integrated Concrete Collaborative's products to achieve a harmonious and functional living space. The design choices, from the natural raw materials of the tiles to the beach-inspired color schemes, were tailored to the San Clemente beachside setting, resulting in a simple, relaxed, and cohesive aesthetic that fulfills the homeowners' vision. #HomeRenovation #CoastalDesign #ConcreteCollaborative #TerrazzoTiles #GeometricTiles #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign

This article is the second part of a five-week series detailing the design project of the Hilltop Estate, specifically focusing on its living and dining areas. The living room and dining room are presented as a cohesive, larger space, characterized by a high ceiling vault. The design approach emphasizes a sense of continuity, achieved through elements like uniform drapery and symmetrical chandeliers. The color palette employed throughout these spaces is softened, featuring peaceful and calming tones, with black accents strategically used to complement the bold steel windows. In the living room, a focal point is created by built-in shelving constructed around a limestone fireplace. The design pays meticulous attention to molding details and the selection of décor accessories. A notable feature within the built-in shelving is a flannel-textured wallpaper backdrop, adding a subtle textural dimension to the space. The article highlights the Studio McGee design approach of mixing furniture styles, illustrated by the use of spindle lounge chairs that complement a cream-colored sofa without being an exact set. Furthermore, a blue-gray sofa with a distinct shape and upholstery is incorporated, contributing to a diverse yet harmonious furniture arrangement. Shea McGee, the designer, articulates the design objective for the living space: to create an environment that feels elegant and refined but remains comfortable and practical for the clients' lifestyle. This balance between aesthetics and livability is a core principle guiding the design decisions for the Hilltop Estate. The dining room, which adjoins the living area, features two prominent long walls. These walls are utilized to introduce height and scale into the space. One wall is adorned with a sideboard and a mirror, which not only serves a functional purpose but also reflects the surrounding views, enhancing the room's spaciousness. The opposite wall features a large hutch, providing both aesthetic interest and valuable storage capacity, contributing to the room's overall functionality and style. The integration of these elements ensures that the dining room, while distinct, maintains the overarching design philosophy and aesthetic continuity established in the living room. The article underscores the thoughtful consideration given to every detail, from architectural features to furniture selection and decorative accents, all working in concert to create a sophisticated yet comfortable living and dining experience within the Hilltop Estate. The design aims to blend traditional and modern elements seamlessly, resulting in a timeless and inviting home. #HilltopEstate #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomDesign #DiningRoomDesign #HomeDecor #DesignContinuity #FurnitureStyling #StudioMcGee

Concrete floors offer a sleek, industrial aesthetic, serving as a contemporary alternative to traditional wood flooring. However, selecting appropriate wall colors to complement their often cool-toned nature can be challenging. Concrete is a dynamic material, with unpredictable appearances once cured, and its irregularities contribute to its unique appeal. Interior designers and architects emphasize the importance of testing colors alongside concrete, as its gray tones can shift appearance based on surrounding hues; for instance, a bright blue might make concrete appear orange. Ultimately, the best color pairing depends on the project's context, mood, and client's style, with an experienced designer capable of harmonizing various textures and colors. White is a common and minimalist choice, but careful consideration of its exact shade is crucial. Designers recommend matching the white paint's temperature (warm or cool) to the concrete's undertones. For example, a warm gray concrete should be paired with a warm white, while cool concrete benefits from a crisper, cooler white. To prevent a stark environment, creamy whites, such as Benjamin Moore's Simply White, are suggested, along with warm wood accents and richly textured soft furnishings like boucle or sheepskin, avoiding undertones of gray, blue, or green to create contrast. Adding elements like stone coffee tables or loose-cover sofas can introduce texture and prevent the minimalist scheme from feeling flat. Wood tones, though not a color, are highly recommended for their ability to introduce warmth and softness, counterbalancing the hardness and grayness of concrete. Materials like white oak are popular due to their warm undertones. When selecting wood, it is important to consider the concrete's undertones; if the concrete is warm, a wider range of wood tones can be used. If paint is preferred over wood, warm, earthy, lighter colors can achieve a similar effect, providing visual relief and making the space feel more inviting. Gray, being closely related to concrete, can create cool and contemporary spaces. While not ideal for a warm, cocooning atmosphere, various shades of gray can work well. For example, blue-gray cabinets paired with gray grouting can offer a subtle contrast to warmer polished concrete flooring, maintaining a neutral yet warm palette when combined with wood and warm whites. Blue, particularly brighter shades or patterned wallpaper with blue, can offer a fresh contrast to warmer concrete floors, as gray is a complementary color to blue. Embracing blue, green, or darker maroon tones can enhance the cool hues often found in gray concrete. Yellow pairs effectively with gray concrete, creating dynamic, warm, and playful spaces. This combination is suitable for kitchens with wood cabinets and concrete floors or bathrooms with bright yellow wall tiles. Yellow adds warmth, especially in spaces with limited natural light. Bold, saturated hues generally create dynamic contrast with concrete, making colors appear richer due to the concrete's unsaturated nature. Pink, often seen with concrete for a softer, soothing effect, works well in bedrooms when earthier or paler shades are chosen. In kitchens, pink can serve as a color pop, particularly with pink plaster walls or cabinetry, enhanced by gold hardware and soft woods. For colored concrete floors, designers typically suggest neutral walls, often white, ensuring the chosen shade aligns with the concrete's warm or cool undertones. Wood elements can add warmth and softness. Alternatively, a tonally lighter shade than the flooring can add subtle depth. For a bold, cohesive look, the same color can be extended from the floor up the walls, over skirting, and woodwork. The smooth, polished finish of concrete floors makes them an excellent base for highly textural wall finishes, such as hand-troweled plaster. Industrial materials like raw steel can also be effectively paired with concrete, creating interesting contrasts and a unified aesthetic. Mixing concrete with luxurious materials like marble or handblown glass can elevate the space, blending the casual durability of concrete with refined sophistication. #ConcreteFloors #WallColors #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #ColorPairing #ModernInteriors #IndustrialStyle #HomeDecor #DesignTips

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

This lookbook presents eight distinct bathroom designs that utilize concrete as a primary material, highlighting its practical and aesthetic qualities. Concrete is a material that offers both durability and a rugged, industrial aesthetic, making it suitable for modern bathroom interiors. The collection showcases a variety of applications and design approaches across different global locations. One example is the Untitled House in the UK by Szczepaniak Astridge, where a concrete-walled void forms a central 'concrete sculpture' extending from the kitchen to the bathroom. The concrete was poured in situ for foundations, floors, walls, and ceilings, with a monolithic concrete bathtub reinforcing the brutalist feel of the space. In Australia, MORQ's Cloister House features almost windowless design and surrounds a plant-filled courtyard. The interior walls, made from thick rammed concrete, are left exposed in the bathroom and complemented by wooden slat flooring and a red hardwood ceiling, softening the concrete's raw texture. Studio 304's Sunken Bath in the UK is a glazed bathroom designed for a London flat, intended for Japanese ritual bathing. It separates the shower and toilet from a concrete bathtub, which is enclosed by glass walls and a glass roof, providing views of a bamboo garden. Carmody Groarke’s House and Studio Lambeth, also in the UK, integrates a residential unit into an old warehouse. This design features a brick exterior and a smooth concrete interior. A concrete bathroom unit, characterized by a large shadow gap beneath the ceiling, divides one of the bedrooms and is contrasted with a marble sink and copper-hued fixtures. Rainville Sangaré's Unit 622 in Montreal, Canada, is an apartment within Moshe Safdie's Habitat 67, a brutalist complex. The bathroom includes a shower with dichroic glass that shifts color, and vertical concrete wall tiles that echo the building's distinctive structure. In Mexico City, the Pedro Reyes House, designed by Pedro Reyes and Carla Fernandez, extensively uses concrete with varying textures. The bathroom features a pottery-like molded concrete sink and a rough-hewn stone bathtub resembling a rock pool, complementing the coarse concrete walls and ceiling. Art Villa in Costa Rica, by Formafatal and Refuel Works, is set in a jungle and draws inspiration from Paulo Mendes da Rocha’s monolithic concrete architecture. Its bathroom combines concrete walls and ceilings with a large stone bathtub, juxtaposed with wooden flooring, and large windows offering views of the natural landscape. Finally, BC–OA's S-M-L Loft in New York’s Soho district, located in a cast-iron building, maintains an industrial aesthetic. The bathroom pairs solid walnut millwork with raw concrete panels and white porcelain tiles, reflecting the building's warehouse origins. These projects demonstrate concrete's versatility in creating both functional and aesthetically rich bathroom environments. #ConcreteBathrooms #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernInteriors #BrutalistArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #ConcreteApplications

This article explores a growing design trend that embraces an "unfinished" aesthetic in home interiors, showcasing ten examples where raw materials, exposed structural elements, and a sense of deliberate incompleteness contribute to the character and appeal of residential spaces. This approach challenges traditional notions of polished and perfectly decorated homes, instead celebrating the authenticity of construction materials and a less prescriptive design. One featured project, Skip Stop House in England by Design Haus Liberty, exemplifies this trend by converting a Marylebone house into apartments while intentionally leaving patches of exposed plaster after stripping wallpaper and incorporating industrial-style furniture. This design choice aimed to keep costs low while imparting a distinctive, raw appeal. In São Paulo, Vitrô Arquitetura's Pompeia Apartment embraces minimalism with limited furniture and brickwork walls, alongside structural concrete pillars that were uncovered during the renovation, contributing to a relaxed, open-plan environment. Similarly, the Setagaya Flat in Tokyo by Naruse Inokuma Architects features exposed concrete walls with cement smears, combined with sliding plywood partitions, to create a balanced mix of old and new elements within a minimal aesthetic. David Cervera's El Palmar, a concrete summer house in Mexico, integrates natural materials and hammocks. Its fluid layout, with one side exposed to the garden, blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living, enhancing the connection with its surroundings through its unassuming finish. In Crusch Alba, Spain, Gus Wüstemann preserved the building's history during a Barcelona apartment renovation by varnishing over existing wallpaper and raw stone walls. This approach highlights previous interventions and layers of the building's past, celebrating its evolving character. Jo Nagasaka's House in Hatogaya, Japan, features timber columns that resemble scaffolding, exposed after the removal of partition walls. This creates an open, light-filled space that deliberately showcases structural elements as part of the interior design. GENS: Association Libérale d'Architecture converted a dilapidated barn in northeast France into social housing. The resulting shingle-clad structure maintains an unfinished appearance, designed to harmonize with the surrounding village and its rustic context. Karin Matz's HB6B in Sweden involved a Stockholm apartment renovation where many original features, including crumbling brick and peeling plaster walls, were retained from a renovation abandoned in the 1980s. This preserves the apartment's unique history and character. The deFlat project in the Netherlands, by NL Architects and XVW Architectuur, involved renovating a large post-war apartment building. The flats were left bare for residents to customize, offering a highly personalized and unfinished starting point for their homes. This innovative approach earned them the Mies van der Rohe award. Finally, G Studio Architects pushed the unfinished aesthetic further in the Tokyo Loft, applying white paint dabs to walls and installing bright orange electrical wires as visible design features, making the typically concealed elements a focal point of the interior. These projects collectively demonstrate a conscious move towards appreciating the raw, authentic, and evolving nature of architectural spaces. #InteriorDesign #UnfinishedAesthetic #RawMaterials #HomeInteriors #ResidentialDesign #ConcreteInteriors #ExposedElements #MinimalistDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation

The architectural studio Sārānsh undertook the redesign of VS House, a family home located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, western India. Originally a four-bedroom residence, the house was reconfigured to accommodate three bedrooms, allowing for more expansive living areas and an enhanced sense of space. The core philosophy guiding the renovation was a minimalist approach, focusing on the inherent qualities and tactile nature of the materials used rather than adding numerous decorative elements. This design strategy aimed to create a distinct ambiance and ensure a visually and physically engaging journey through the home. Throughout the house, a variety of materials have been strategically employed to achieve a rich tactile experience. Grey Kota stone, a type of limestone quarried in Rajasthan, is a prominent feature for the flooring across most areas. In the living room, these Kota tiles are laid in a herringbone pattern, creating a refined aesthetic. A low-lying timber plinth with square-shaped cutouts frames the room, providing support for plush grey seating cushions and contributing to the minimalist yet comfortable design. For the less formal sitting area, larger slabs of Kota stone were utilized for the flooring. This space is furnished with timber-framed blue sofas and seamlessly transitions to an outdoor terrace, which offers views of a planted courtyard. In contrast, "movement spaces" like corridors feature small blocks of Kota stone arranged in linear strips, or integrated with panels of wood for the bedroom floors, providing textural variations within the overall stone palette. The dining room introduces a notable shift in the material scheme with its moody ambiance. The floor is clad in jet-black Kadappa tiles, sourced from the Rayalseema region of southeast India, which complement a matching black dining table and chairs with black-fabric seats. To ensure the timber elements within this room stand out, the walls are finished with a neutral grey plaster, emphasizing the natural warmth and texture of the wood. Bathrooms within VS House showcase a deliberate mix of Indian stone varieties. Flecked grey tiles cover the floors and walls, while a striking emerald-colored, veined marble is used as a backing for fixtures such as the toilet and mirrors, adding a touch of luxury and visual interest. This combination of materials demonstrates a thoughtful approach to balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal. A study area, conceptualized as a "wooden box," was created on the first floor by connecting a passageway to an adjacent terrace. This space is entirely clad in warm-hued timber, covering the walls, floor, and a newly constructed upward-curving ceiling. The desk in this study is also crafted from timber and rests on a large spherical volume, reinforcing the sense of an isolated, den-like retreat. The consistent use of timber aims to evoke a feeling of warmth and seclusion, providing a dedicated space for work or contemplation. The exterior areas of VS House also underwent significant updates, incorporating the same material palette as the interior. A wooden deck was constructed to accommodate a jacuzzi, and Kota stone was extended to the flooring of the open-air lounge, creating a harmonious transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Additionally, a pavilion-like structure was built to house a personal gym, further enhancing the amenities available to the family. This integrated approach ensures that the design principles extend beyond the main living spaces, providing a cohesive and well-appointed home environment. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #InteriorDesign #IndianHomes #Ahmedabad #SaranshArchitecture #MaterialPalette #StoneTiles #TimberInteriors

The Orchard House is a private extension and renovation project located within the Wickham Conservation Area, completed in the summer of 2021 by AR Design Studio. The project involved replacing previous piecemeal developments to reorient the house towards its garden. This renovation is situated in Hampshire, United Kingdom, and covers an area of 320 square feet, completed in 2020. Martin Gardner provided the photography for the project. The architectural design was led by Andy Ramus, with Tom Ford serving as the architectural designer. Structural engineering services were provided by AWA. Dell Developments acted as the general contractor for the project. The materials used in the renovation include wood, glass, and brick, contributing to a modern aesthetic while respecting the conservation area's context. The design aimed to create a more integrated living space that capitalizes on the connection with the outdoor environment. The project falls under the categories of houses and renovation, highlighting the transformation of an existing structure into a more functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The reorientation of the house towards its garden suggests a focus on natural light, views, and an improved indoor-outdoor flow, common objectives in contemporary residential architecture and renovation projects. The use of specific manufacturers such as Russwood, Smart Systems, Vande Moortel, and Velfac indicates a selection of quality materials and systems for various components of the house, including windows, doors, and other structural or finishing elements. The context of the Wickham Conservation Area implies that the design adhered to specific guidelines and regulations to preserve the historical and architectural character of the locality. This often involves careful consideration of external materials, building massing, and how new additions integrate with the existing fabric and surrounding environment. The project's success in achieving its goals within such a sensitive area underscores the expertise of AR Design Studio in balancing modern design with historical preservation. Overall, The Orchard House represents a thoughtful renovation that revitalizes a residential property by improving its layout, enhancing its connection to the garden, and utilizing contemporary architectural solutions within a conservation-sensitive setting. The project showcases how modern extensions can breathe new life into older homes, creating functional and visually appealing spaces that meet the needs of contemporary living while respecting their historical and environmental context. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseRenovation #ARDesignStudio #UnitedKingdom #Hampshire #ConservationArea #ModernDesign #BuildingMaterials