Highland modern: Dualchas Architects shortlisted for RIBA House of the Year

The Dallas Architecture Forum hosted an “Inside The Box” Modern Living 365 cocktail reception at the Russell Buchanan-designed Mockingbird house. This particular residence garnered controversy among Highland Park residents due to its angular structure, which stands in stark contrast to the area's traditional brick and stone manors. The event provided an opportunity to delve into the design and creation of this unique property. The architect, Russell Buchanan, provided insights into the home's construction, which he humorously noted was compared to a 'refrigerator box.' The house is characterized by its use of steel beams and pre-fabricated, two-inch foam-insulated aluminum panels, forming a long, rectangular shape. The exterior's angular and minimalist aesthetic deliberately highlights these materials. All components, including the Metl-Span jacket sourced from Lewisville, Texas, were custom-designed, cut, and manufactured specifically for this project. The uniform appearance of the panels on both sides contributes to the home's industrial feel, a theme consistently echoed in its interior finishes and furnishings, which lean towards a more streamlined, commercial aesthetic rather than a conventional residential one. Buchanan detailed that the construction process for the house spanned 11 months. A notable aspect of its construction sequence was that the aluminum cladding was among the final steps, with Buchanan remarking that 'When they’re in, it’s finished.' This approach differs significantly from traditional construction methods where exterior walls are typically completed before interior work commences. The interior boasts an impressive array of natural stone, including golden onyx in the entry vestibule, Syrah granite and Aston White quartz for the kitchen counters, Brazilian Arabescato marble in the master bath, Xango Red quartz on the staircase, and Breccia Imperial leathered granite on a Buchanan-designed dining table, showcasing a bold and diverse material palette. Despite its unconventional construction, the interior provides a unique living experience. It evokes the sensation of a sophisticated shipping container, softened by elements like gorgeous Douglas fir rafters, rich stone surfaces, and a full-length glass wall on the first floor. Buchanan explained that the paneling and glass walls necessitated a thoughtful floorplan to ensure proper access to power and plumbing, as these elements could not be run internally. The downstairs floor-to-ceiling windows are equipped with an exterior camouflage curtain, offering privacy from eastern neighbors who have a direct view into the first floor. This feature enhances the sense of privacy despite the transparent design. Furthermore, the walls also function as sound dampeners, a practical benefit given the home's location on a busy two-lane thoroughfare. The architect emphasized that the design was driven by the homeowners' desires and the constraints of the site, resulting in numerous innovations and making it a truly unconventional structure. #DallasArchitectureForum #ModernLiving #RussellBuchanan #BoxHouse #MockingbirdHouse #ArchitecturalDesign #IndustrialAesthetics #LuxuryHomes #HighlandPark

This page serves as a comprehensive guide for architects, designers, and firms interested in submitting their work for consideration in Architectural Record's various annual awards and special features. It outlines the opportunities available throughout the year for showcasing contemporary architecture, residential projects, interior designs, and innovative products. The primary goal is to encourage submissions to several prestigious competitions and features that celebrate excellence and innovation in the field. The Architectural Record Awards are a key highlight, scheduled for inauguration in the fall. These awards aim to recognize the year’s best built and unbuilt projects, as well as leading design voices, with winners being celebrated at the annual Innovation Conference. This new award program will complement the magazine's long-standing tradition of highlighting architectural excellence in its print editions. Specific details for submission to these awards are provided through a dedicated link. Another significant feature is "Record Interiors," an annual issue that has for decades showcased outstanding contributions to building interiors. This competition invites architects and interior designers to submit projects that demonstrate clever solutions and innovative material choices, with a primary focus on interior scope. The page offers links to submission details and archives of past winners, providing aspiring entrants with examples of previously recognized work. "Design Vanguard" is presented as a program recognizing emerging firms and individual practitioners who represent the next generation of architects. Since 2000, this award has honored ten international winners each year, specifically targeting practices that have been established for ten years or less. This initiative aims to highlight fresh talent and innovative approaches within the architectural community, with application details and a list of past winners accessible on the page. "Record Houses," established in 1956, is an annual issue dedicated to residential design. It seeks projects that challenge expectations, push disciplinary boundaries, and creatively redefine established architectural vocabularies. The platform provides detailed submission guidelines and links to previous winners, offering insights into the types of residential projects that have historically been celebrated. The "Kitchen & Bath" competition focuses on novel approaches to these utilitarian spaces, encompassing both commercial and residential contexts, and even public infrastructure. This category encourages submissions that showcase innovation in design and functionality within kitchens and bathrooms. Information on entering this competition and viewing past winners is also made available. "Record Products of the Year" is a long-running competition that identifies the most innovative building materials, components, and furnishings introduced to the North American market within the past year. A panel of experts, including architects and designers, selects winning entries based on criteria such as inventiveness, functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. The awardees are featured in the December issue of RECORD, and the page provides entry details for the upcoming cycle and a list of previous product winners. The "Cocktail Napkin Sketch" contest, open to U.S.-based architects, students, and related professionals, celebrates the art of sketching. Entrants are required to submit a sketch on a white cocktail napkin using a pen. Two grand prize winners, one licensed architect and one related professional, receive a gift card and a set of custom cocktail napkins. Winning sketches are announced at the Innovation Conference and published in the November issue and on the website. This contest is sponsored by Construction Specialties. Finally, the "Guess the Architect" contest is a monthly challenge from the editors, inviting readers to identify the architect of a historically important building. The contest runs throughout the month, with a chance to win a $500 Visa gift card. This contest is sponsored by Pac-Clad Peterson. The page concludes by inviting general project submissions, providing links to submission guidelines and the editorial calendar for those who wish to have their work considered for publication outside of the specific contests. #ArchitecturalAwards #DesignCompetitions #EmergingArchitects #ResidentialDesign #InteriorDesign #BuildingProducts #ArchitecturalSketching #InnovationConference #CallForEntries

The article details the design of a multi-generational family house in South Delhi by RKDS, headed by principal architect Martand Khosla. This project represents RKDS's first complete building design encompassing both exterior and interior elements, allowing for a cohesive vision of openness, modernist aesthetics, and the integration of raw materials throughout the structure. The house is characterized by a sophisticated composition of exposed brick, concrete, and steel, augmented by teak louvers that provide both aesthetic pattern and functional privacy. The structure is delineated into three distinct volumes: a narrow front block faced with stone, teak louvers, and steel frames; a middle block built from brick and concrete; and a concrete structure preserved from the original house on the site. This original, poorly built, and awkwardly shaped house prompted a decision to construct an entirely new residence, while strategically retaining one block to serve as a service core, housing generators, water tanks, and staff quarters. This retention allowed the architects to open up the front of the new house to the street, a departure from typical residential architecture in New Delhi, and to preserve an existing Gulmohar tree by slightly setting back the volumes from the street. The design successfully balances interaction with the street while ensuring privacy for the interior spaces. The ground floor accommodates living areas, while the upper floors contain four bedrooms connected by a double-height family room. This central family space was conceived to foster interaction between siblings and across generations, counteracting the trend of cellular living by providing common social areas that support both autonomy and collective engagement. Inside, the house maintains the raw material aesthetic of its exterior with exposed concrete ceilings, exposed brick, and plaster walls. These elements are complemented by refined finishes such as white marble chip flooring with brass inlay grid patterns and mild steel and brass railings, which introduce an element of subtle elegance. The interior design further explores modernist principles through the use of primary colors—red, green, and yellow—in communal areas. The furniture selection pays homage to iconic modernist architects like Pierre Jeanneret, Le Corbusier, Gio Ponti, Eileen Grey, and Eero Saarinen, reflecting the influences on RKDS's work. The house's distinctive use of teak louvers for shading also contributes significantly to its unique identity. #ModernistArchitecture #BrickHouse #NewDelhiDesign #RKDSArchitects #MaterialPatchwork #MultiGenerationalHome #TeakLouvers #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

This article highlights a newly constructed four-bedroom, five-bathroom, 4,702-square-foot home in Northwest Dallas, designed by renowned architect Todd Hamilton. Hamilton, an MIT graduate and professor at UT Arlington, is known for his unique architectural style that integrates contemporary trends with timeless elements, pushing the boundaries of modern design. His work is recognized for its dynamic yet balanced aesthetic, characterized by contrasting materials, distinct angles, and precise proportionality, exemplified by the use of antique reclaimed brick in the featured property. The interior of the home is accessed through a grand glass doorway, leading into spaces with chevron-set hardwood floors and soaring ceilings. The design emphasizes soft interior finishes that contribute to an atmosphere of sophistication. The open and expansive layout allows for a seamless flow throughout the main living areas. The home includes a formal dining room, a cozy parlor, and a large living area, providing ample space for entertaining guests. The kitchen, designed by Todd Hamilton, features quartzite countertops and is equipped with a full-size prep pantry and a butler’s pantry, along with commercial-grade appliances. The cabinetry is painted in an on-trend green hue, adding a modern touch to the culinary space. The primary suite is generously sized and filled with natural light, offering flexibility for various interior design styles. The ensuite bathroom combines contemporary design with functional convenience, featuring dual vanities, an elegant soaking tub, and exquisite tilework. A spacious walk-in closet is also part of the primary suite, designed for practical luxury. In addition to the primary suite, the home boasts three more bedrooms, four additional bathrooms, an office, and full-sized laundry rooms on both floors, ensuring comprehensive functionality for its inhabitants. The exterior of the home features a breathtaking backyard oasis with ample porch and patio space, ideal for enjoying the Texas climate. An outdoor kitchen is also included, facilitating outdoor entertaining and barbecues. This property is presented as a prime example of a home that breaks from traditional designs while maintaining a timeless appeal, embodying Todd Hamilton's distinctive architectural vision. The property, located at 3960 Durango Drive, Dallas, TX 75220, is listed by Lindsay Thomas with Russell Trenary, Realtors, for $2.18 million. #ToddHamilton #NorthwestDallas #ModernArchitecture #LuxuryHome #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #DallasHomes

This article details the architectural design and construction of a modern, modest home on Elliott Island, Maryland, which received the 2020 Editor's Choice Award. The project, conceived as a weekend retreat for a family to spend time with the client's father, aimed to blend a rustic feel with contemporary design, harmonizing with the remote, fishing-shack-dominated community. David D. Quillin Architecture spearheaded the design, emphasizing measured proportions, a gentle aesthetic, and clean detailing. The home features an open floor plan designed to foster relaxed socializing, with common spaces oriented towards water views. A kitchen island and a stair cabinet effectively divide the main volume into distinct zones for different activities, accommodating both adults and children. The selection of Andy Bukovsky, a local master cabinetmaker but first-time general contractor, and Jerry Keith, the client's father who uses a wheelchair, as construction manager, influenced the design to incorporate accessibility from the outset. This collaborative effort underscored a shared commitment to unity and functionality within the home. Structural considerations were critical due to the home's waterfront location. Given that windows are concentrated on the rear side facing strong northwest winds, engineers recommended steel framing. The builder ingeniously addressed the challenge of integrating Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with steel by welding bolts to beams and then bolting 2x lumber to them. A steel beam in the roof plate was designed to bear on a metal post, stopping short of the exterior wall, to avoid penetrating the SIPs. The at-grade positioning of the floor, combined with extensive glazing, creates a sensation of being directly on the beach, even when indoors. The master suite is spatially separated from the main house by a glass bridge, offering privacy and a treehouse-like retreat. This separation also subtly alludes to the historical evolution of island properties, which often develop as a collection of distinct structures. Pilings were used for the master suite's foundation where the topography sloped away and to protect the roots of nearby pine trees, also allowing natural runoff to flow beneath, creating a visible stream from the bedroom. In contrast, the main house is firmly rooted with a slab-on-grade foundation. The central living space, with its concentrated glazing on the north side, maximizes water views and features a creative play area for children, promoting a "loose and organic" atmosphere for family interaction rather than formality. Materials such as concrete, brick, wood, and metal contribute to the desired rustic camp aesthetic. A notable design element is the shared chimney for two fireplaces, one in the great room and another on the rear deck. The initial football-like shape of the chimney was modified to a 7-ft.-diameter drum reducing to a smaller tower, with 90-degree corners where brick meets siding, simplifying flashing and brick-cutting. An aesthetic highlight is the cedar siding, which weathers to a gray finish where exposed to the sun, but retains an orange-gold color at the recessed entry, creating a beacon effect and adding contrast to the color palette. This natural weathering process helps the house blend seamlessly into its surroundings, reflecting thoughtful decisions in its construction and design. #ModernHomeDesign #RuralArchitecture #WaterfrontProperty #AccessibleDesign #SustainableMaterials #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalAwards #ResidentialConstruction #FamilyLiving

This article highlights the 2025 Best Traditional Residence Winner, a beachfront single-family home located on Fisher Island, Miami. The project is a collaboration between Alizée Brion of Light On White Studio, Zeb Jarosz of Jarosz Architects, and Jose Ortega of CDC Builders. The primary design objective was to integrate a classical Mediterranean exterior with modern, timeless interiors for a young family's permanent residence. The interior design employs a neutral color palette that balances warm and cool tones, utilizing whites, taupes, grays, browns, and blacks. Tailored furnishings are complemented by sculptural lighting featuring brass and bronze accents. Each room is designed to evoke a distinct mood; for instance, the kitchen showcases a bold black and white theme, the family room incorporates dark gray, and the library is characterized by rich brown hues. The overall aesthetic aims to convey a sense of calm and permanence, achieving a cohesive blend of classic minimalism and contemporary living. A significant aspect of the home is its art collection, which thoughtfully combines the client's existing pieces with new custom works by artists such as Jean Philippe Lagouarde, Ali Enache, and Aythamy Armas. These artworks were specifically chosen to harmonize with the minimalist and dynamic interior environment. Fisher Island's unique characteristics, including its exclusive ferry access and seasonal construction limitations, presented specific challenges for the project team. Despite these constraints, the collaborative efforts among the designers, architects, builders, and the client resulted in a successful realization of the homeowner's vision for a clean-lined and classic aesthetic. The article details various design elements and resources used, including flooring from Ann Sacks, lighting by Apparatus and Kreon, furniture from Liaigre, accent tables by Fernando Mastrangelo, and millwork by Robert Carpentry. Paint colors, such as Benjamin Moore's Simply White, also contribute to the home's tranquil atmosphere. This project serves as an example of how a complex design brief, constrained by location and logistical factors, can be successfully executed through a strong collaborative approach, yielding a residence that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional for its inhabitants. #DesignAwards #TraditionalResidence #FisherIsland #InteriorDesign #Architecture #MediterraneanStyle #LuxuryHome #MiamiDesign #CustomInteriors

The article highlights Urbanology Designs' award-winning living room, recognized in the Design 9 Awards for its luxurious and functional design. The design philosophy centers on merging sculptural artistry with functionality to create a space that is both refined and inviting, tailored for everyday living. The core inspiration was to ensure the room felt sophisticated yet welcoming, providing an elevated setting for a family home. A central feature of the design is a custom fireplace, which has been finished in limestone plaster and features gently rounded edges. This fireplace serves as an anchor for the space, with its organic curves intentionally softening the home's more rigid architectural lines. This detail introduces a sense of warmth and elegance, contributing significantly to the overall aesthetic and comfort of the living room. The designers emphasized that every element in the living room, considered the heart of the home, was selected with meticulous care and intention. This approach ensured that each furnishing and design choice contributed to the room's overarching theme of elevated living. Key pieces of furniture, such as a custom tête-à-tête and a curved sofa, were specifically chosen to encourage conversation and enhance the welcoming atmosphere of the space. These selections reflect the homeowner's appreciation for bespoke craftsmanship, contributing to a sense of uniqueness and personalization within the design. The overall design aims to create a harmonious balance between artistic expression and practical livability. The living room is envisioned not only as a visually impressive showpiece but also as a comfortable and functional gathering place where elegance, comfort, and connection seamlessly intertwine. Details of the project include a single-family home type, with David Goettsche of Desco Homes as the builder and Urbanology Designs responsible for the interior design. Resources for the project feature a Yale Large Sconce from Arteriors, custom window treatments from Day Design, cement side tables from Noir, and a Mya side table from Nuevo. This combination of bespoke elements and carefully selected pieces underscores the project's commitment to creating a luxurious and livable environment. #DesignAwards #LuxuryLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CustomDesign #LivingRoomDesign #UrbanologyDesigns #DallasInteriors #SculpturalArtistry

Architects Noam Dvir and Daniel Rauchwerger, founders of the New York-based firm BoND (Bureau of Noam and Daniel), share insights into their design philosophy, creative process, and the unique challenges and inspirations behind their projects. Having met in 2010 at the Venice architecture biennial and later forming BoND in 2015, the duo has become known for their nuanced approach to physicality and use in design, particularly in New York City and Fire Island. The discussion highlights the specific considerations for working on Fire Island, a narrow stretch of land susceptible to environmental factors like climate change and sea-level rise. Dvir and Rauchwerger explain how these environmental realities, combined with the island's rich Modernist architectural legacy, necessitate innovative design solutions. They detail how new ground-up constructions must be elevated significantly, prompting questions about the aesthetics of the house's base when typically seen nestled within dunes. The architects also touch upon the increasing sophistication of buildings and the challenge of incorporating technology without making it part of the problem. Material choices are also evolving; for instance, the rising cost of traditional cedar has led them to explore alternative wood materials, such as a silvery-toned wood from Texas that offers easier assembly and application. BoND's approach to renovating existing Modernist homes on Fire Island involves viewing the house as a cohesive whole rather than focusing on isolated areas. They aim to unify design elements, such as extending cedar siding where it wasn't originally present, and infuse utilitarian spaces like bathrooms with humor and sexiness. Custom furniture design plays a crucial role in re-imagining social conditions within these homes, creating spaces for various interactions, from pre-dinner gatherings to intimate conversations on a rainy night. The architects emphasize the intentional orchestration of social situations in their designs, creating platforms for living and socializing that encourage interaction and engagement. They strive for openness and connectivity between spaces, maximizing the dramatic interplay with the surrounding landscape. Their client relationships are deeply integrated, often stemming from personal connections and shared communities. Many clients are younger, having acquired homes post-Covid, and have specific priorities, such as cooking, which BoND meticulously addresses in their designs for these often smaller spaces. The firm's background in architecture journalism significantly influences their project approach, with a strong emphasis on narrative and storytelling. Each project is seen as an opportunity to create a unique story or fantasy that captures the imagination of their community. BoND does not differentiate significantly between commercial and residential projects, applying a consistent "style of thinking" that seeks unique elements within each program. They find excitement in New York City lofts, particularly in understanding and integrating the existing character of a space into new designs, distilling its core attractive qualities. Art serves as a major driver in BoND's work, viewed as a reflection of cultural attitudes and a source of aesthetic inspiration for color palettes and contextual contrasts. They often select art for their projects, maintaining relationships with artists to stay attuned to cultural trends. While they consider architecture a beautiful craft rather than an art form, they acknowledge art's role as an emotional and personal component of a home. Dvir and Rauchwerger also share insights into their partnership, highlighting their complementary strengths and the collaborative nature of their work, with Noam as the managing partner and Daniel as the creative director, though both are deeply involved in all project phases. Finally, they discuss the concept of "sexiness" in architecture, defining it as a cultural construct and an integral part of their clients' desire topology. This manifests in design decisions, such as the placement of an outdoor shower or views within a house, aiming to create a sense of "flirty intrigue" that makes people look and feel great in their spaces. #BoNDArchitects #NoamDvir #DanielRauchwerger #FireIslandDesign #ModernistArchitecture #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalJournalism

The article offers an exclusive look into the Forest Hills estate of Dan Noble, President and CEO of HKS Architects, ahead of the AIA Dallas Tour of Homes. Noble, along with his wife Ann, designed their home, seeking collaboration from architect James Kuhlmann for residential detailing and constructability. The couple, long-time residents of East Dallas, selected the Forest Hills neighborhood for its historical and eclectic charm, proximity to White Rock Lake and The Arboretum, and its pastoral setting that offers a sense of tranquility while being close to downtown. This location provided the desired connection to a tight-knit, walkable, and heavily forested community. The design of the home is characterized as "comfortable modern." The Nobles specifically sought a corner lot that allowed for eastern exposure to maximize morning light. They strategically designed a narrow house to encourage cross-ventilation and deep light penetration, further enhanced by overhangs that permit winter sun while blocking summer rays. The residence is also equipped with 26 solar panels, generating over 200% of its energy needs on sunny summer days, and a two-story "light catcher" that distributes natural light throughout both floors, minimizing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Additionally, the home incorporates 14 geothermal wells to provide cool water for its HVAC system, and sustainable materials were used throughout to achieve LEED Gold certification. A significant architectural feature is the floating minimalist staircase, designed to avoid obstructing views of the courtyard and to allow northeast light to penetrate deeply into the space. The staircase features tight cables that contribute to a light and crisp aesthetic, creating a lyrical quality within the room. The Nobles' extensive art collection, amassed over three decades, played a crucial role in the home's layout and build. The design process, which began in 2013 after purchasing the lot, allowed them several years to understand the site's light dynamics and contextual influences, enabling them to integrate existing art pieces and acquire new ones that complemented the new space. The kitchen is a central and expansive area, reflecting the Nobles' active entertainment schedule. As the CEO of a large architecture firm and with his wife's involvement in multiple boards, entertaining is frequent. The kitchen acts as the home's nucleus, connecting the outdoor informal dining area to the south with a more formal garden to the north. A pantry extending to the garage allows the garage to function as a staging kitchen for events, highlighting the home's design for social gatherings. The overall design and implementation process spanned several years, with the Nobles taking a deliberate approach. They rented out the existing home on the purchased lot for a few years to refine their design. Collaborators, including James, Scott, Ellen, and Richard, were brought in for design, constructability, and cost considerations. The HKS LINE Group conducted light penetration, massing, and solar studies to optimize site orientation, overhangs, and window placements. A LEED consultant was also engaged to ensure the home achieved Gold certification. The process was described as enjoyable, providing a faster feedback loop compared to larger commercial projects, allowing them to see their vision materialize efficiently. #ForestHillsEstate #AIAHomeTour #HKSArchitects #DanNoble #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #LEEDGold #ArchitecturalDesign #DallasHomes

Scullion Architects undertook a project to transform a small, 72-square-meter 1890s one-bed worker's cottage in north Dublin city into a sustainable and spacious family home. The original structure, which had been extended over the years, included a dilapidated extension and a difficult-to-access attic conversion. The owners' vision was to create a functional family home with dedicated areas for work, socialising, and children's play, along with additional bedrooms, bathrooms, and utility spaces, all while preserving the existing garden and adhering to a limited budget. The architectural challenge was likened to a "ship-in-a-bottle puzzle" due to the desire to retain as much of the original building as possible. Scullion Architects achieved this by carefully stripping away only the dilapidated parts, preserving the front room, front roof, and a section of the rear extension. A new metal and timber-framed extension was then integrated within the existing party walls and the original front and rear walls of the house, minimizing the impact on the garden by utilizing only 7 square meters of its space. A key design innovation involved exploiting a level change at the back of the house. By lowering the floor of the rear rooms, enough vertical space was created to add an extra storey, with its height carefully aligned with the ridge of the old cottage. This allowed for the inclusion of all the required additional rooms without encroaching significantly on the garden. The new design heavily emphasizes the garden and the charm of the surrounding urban environment. Living spaces are intentionally oriented to frame views of the greenery and the old walls, enhanced by full-height windows and reflective materials. This design choice creates a sense of a secluded, almost secret garden refuge in the heart of the inner city. The reflective exterior materials, such as aluminium windows and cladding, serve a dual purpose: they contrast sharply with the brickwork of the city and help prevent overheating by reflecting sunlight. These materials were also chosen for their lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness, and recyclability, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices. Other sustainable materials used include a green roof, cork flooring, and plywood. Maximizing natural light in the newly added interior spaces was a significant design consideration. To achieve this, two holes were punctured through the roof, allowing light to cascade into the dining area. This natural light was then further leveraged to illuminate a centrally located bathroom through two full-length internal windows positioned beside the roof lights. The architects also incorporated mirrors and metallic finishes throughout the interior, such as a mirrored soffit under the first-floor extension, to bounce and reflect light, thereby enhancing the sense of spaciousness. This project exemplifies how creative design and thoughtful renovations can transform seemingly constrained urban properties into highly functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing family homes, offering a model for updating similar housing stock in city centers. #DublinCottage #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #ScullionArchitects #UrbanLiving #InteriorDesign #Architecture

Contemporary design is explored through the perspectives of four prominent figures in the home industry, as presented by Andersen Windows & Doors. These individuals, characterized as "possibility makers," are recognized for setting trends rather than following them. Brandon Berg, Senior Vice President of Research, Development, and Innovation at Andersen Windows & Doors, highlights that contemporary design balances various styles while pushing creative boundaries, and Andersen aims to collaborate with those bold in design and performance. Justina Blakeney, a designer known for her lifestyle brand Jungalow, champions confidence, creativity, and joy. Her work is inspired by her childhood in Berkeley, California, where she spent time in nature and nurtured her artistic talents. Her parents, both developmental psychologists, encouraged her to follow her heart and explore her passions. After graduating from UCLA, Blakeney lived in Italy for seven years, where she admired the Italian approach to mixing old and new, and bright colors with neutrals. Returning to the West Coast in 2009, she infused her 1920s Los Angeles bungalow with greenery, bold colors, prismatic patterns, and earthy textures, sharing her journey on her blog, Jungalow. She defines contemporary design as an "osmosis of things coming together when we’re feeling our most creative and inspired." Blakeney emphasizes that even small changes can impact how we live, encouraging individuals to consider the activities their home should support and then experiment with colors, patterns, and textures. Her brand is committed to environmental sustainability, planting at least two trees with every order, and offers diverse product lines for home decor. Cavin Costello, an architect and co-founder of The Ranch Mine, moved to Phoenix after earning his master's degree, driven by a pioneering spirit. Alongside Claire Aton, he established a firm dedicated to honoring the past and inspiring the future through architectural design, drawing inspiration from the region's ranching and mining history. Their firm gained recognition for transforming homes with a focus on individual passions. Costello's background includes hands-on experience building his family home with his civil engineer father. He emphasizes that contemporary design should be "free of style" and responsive to people, place, culture, and climate. An example of his work includes a solar-powered home designed for a couple's passions for music, yoga, and sustainability, featuring compact windows that reveal desert vistas during yoga practice. The Ranch Mine also received an HGTV Designer of the Year Award for their Red Rocks project, which reconfigured a 1970s Spanish Colonial Revival to connect with the outdoors and Arizona's natural beauty. Jessica Davis, an interior designer and founder of Nest Studio and Atelier Davis, has been passionate about design since childhood, even sending landscape plans to *Southern Living* magazine at age 12. Her global upbringing in Sydney, Hong Kong, and Dallas, along with degrees from Princeton and the New England School of Art & Design, shaped her perspective. After working in hospitality design, she settled in Atlanta and became known for her creative contemporary vision, blending luxurious and accessible elements. Davis developed this dynamic approach while working on the TV show *Bob Vila’s Home Again*, sourcing furniture and decor. She launched Nest Studio, an award-winning hardware company, which quickly gained traction through her early adoption of blogging and Pinterest. Her collections feature mixed materials and layered dimensions. At Atelier Davis, her team injects personality into spaces that tell the stories of their inhabitants. Davis, a mother, operates both studios as women-owned businesses, supporting work-life balance for talented working mothers. She defines contemporary design as what is "happening now" and responsive to evolving needs, citing her own plans for a home addition with a stronger connection to the outdoors and an open floor plan, incorporating steel frame windows reminiscent of her childhood in Hong Kong. Jeff Sweenor, a builder, founded Sweenor Builders after a background in competitive rowing, which instilled in him a team-oriented mentality. His work ethic was also shaped by growing up in his family's fifth-generation candy business, where he learned carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and refrigeration skills by building and renovating their shop. This entrepreneurial spirit led him to build his first home, learning alongside local professionals. Over 30 years, Sweenor Builders has grown from building spec houses to creating legacy homes along the New England coastline. The company integrates various capabilities, including an in-house millwork and cabinetry shop, providing a seamless client experience. One notable project involved renovating a 1971 residence, transforming its congested floor plan and scattered windows to optimize riverfront views. The renovation maintained coastal character while incorporating sleek, modern materials like black vertical longboard and cypress cladding. The firm optimized overhead space with a low-pitch roof and clerestory windows, enhancing natural light. Sweenor’s dedication extends to community engagement, offering on-the-job opportunities to local students, a practice he sees as building the next generation of skilled professionals. #ContemporaryDesign #HomeIndustry #DesignTrends #Architecture #InteriorDesign #Building #Jungalow #TheRanchMine #AtelierDavis #SweenorBuilders

The article showcases the Rising Talent awards at Maison&Objet, a Paris-based trade fair celebrating its 25th year, which took place from September 8-12 at the Parc des Expositions Paris Nord Villepinte. This year's program specifically highlights Dutch design, a field that has historically captured the interest of the industrial design community since the 1990s, with pioneering figures such as Hella Jongerius and Marcel Wanders. The current design landscape, however, is being enriched by a new generation of designers who have been recognized as Rising Talent. A distinguished jury comprising globally renowned female designers, including Kiki Van Eijk, Weiki Somers, Ineke Hans, and Hella Jongerius, selected four individual talents and two design duos for this prestigious accolade. Chantal Hamaide, founder of Intermuros magazine, also played a role in the selection process. While Dutch design traditionally signifies experimental and conceptual approaches, its scope has broadened to encompass an international cohort of students and designers educated or residing in the Netherlands, indicating that "Dutch design is also a state of mind." This new wave of Dutch designers is distinguished by their emphasis on sustainability, frequently incorporating reused waste materials into their creations, and fostering collaborative practices. The article introduces six of these Rising Talents: Atelier Fig, Studio Hanna Kooistra, Théophile Blandet, Studio Yoon Seok-Hyeon, Visser & Meijwaard, and Simone Post, along with Sanne Terweij who received the award for Craft. Atelier Fig, composed of Ruben Hoogvliet and Gijs Wouters, presents the "Gravity" ceramics collection, featuring bowls and candleholders. Their innovative technique involves building objects with liquid clay over a foam armature, which then disappears during firing, resulting in extremely thin, fragile porcelain forms that symbolize impermanence. Studio Hanna Kooistra draws inspiration from traditional Dutch objects and furniture. Her reimagining of the "knopstoel" chair as a foldable, wall-mountable piece exemplifies a nomadic approach to classic styles. Théophile Blandet primarily works with recyclable aluminum and plastic offcuts from local factories, creating pieces that blur the lines between functional furnishings and sculpture, such as his "Fountain of Money," often incorporating socio-economic commentary. Studio Yoon Seok-Hyeon, originally from Cheongiu and a graduate of Design Academy Eindhoven, focuses on environmental impact. His "Relaxing Configuration" project repurposes rug-making knotting skills to create repositionable sofa forms, while his "Ott" project explores tree resin as an alternative, recyclable glazing agent for pottery. Visser & Meijwaard, an Arnhem-based duo, known for their bold hues and clean lines, received praise from juror Ineke Hans for their mastery of product design, exemplified by their LYN cabinet for Pulpo and a kaleidoscopic rug for Moooi. Simone Post, from Utrecht and based in Rotterdam, specializes in textiles, creating rugs from recycled wax-printed cotton leftovers for Label/Breed and flooring from repurposed sport shoes for Adidas, with her design process centered on material exploration and playful experimentation. Sanne Terweij, awarded for Craft, transforms photos of aged doors into wall sculptures using hundreds of colorful metal chips, fascinated by how color influences mood. These designers collectively demonstrate the evolving, innovative, and environmentally conscious direction of contemporary Dutch design. #MaisonObjet #DutchDesign #RisingTalentAwards #SustainableDesign #Ceramics #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #ProductDesign #ArtisanCrafts

This article presents the winners of the first annual Hudson Valley Home Design Awards in 2025, showcasing innovative and inspiring projects from regional interior design professionals across several categories. Each featured project highlights specific design challenges, homeowner visions, and creative solutions implemented by the respective firms. The 'Kitchen' award goes to Jennifer Lynn Interiors in Kingston for a Hyde Park project. The homeowners desired an open, inviting, and functional space for daily living and entertaining. The transformation involved taking the space down to the studs, extending the island to accommodate four chairs, adding an entertainment buffet, improving ventilation, and incorporating thoughtful storage solutions like open shelving and reconfigured cabinetry. The design drew inspiration from the clients' existing butcher block island, which was integrated into floating shelves and a unique floating round table at the island's end. The overall aesthetic blends farmhouse charm with a California-cool style, resulting in a timeless and personalized kitchen. For 'Outdoor Living Space,' Jacobschang Architecture in New York won for a Hastings-on-Hudson property. This project maximized broad views of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades. Due to the sloped terrain, the pool and pool cabana were strategically placed alongside the house, creating a direct connection between indoor and outdoor living areas oriented towards the river views. The design integrated the foundations of an original 1920s house, using these existing walls to support the cabana roof and provide privacy from the street. The contrast between the historic stone walls and the new wood cladding created a unique material presence. Nancy Mah Design in Pawling received the 'Great Room' award for a Pawling residence. The homeowners sought a minimalist, nature-inspired retreat for relaxation and entertaining, emphasizing natural light and showcasing the surrounding scenery. The design focused on creating a calm and restorative environment through sustainable practices, Scandinavian minimalism, and passive solar heating and cooling principles. The use of natural materials, expansive windows, and architectural details established a harmonious balance, with warm lighting and pops of color in furniture and art enhancing the elegance and connection to nature. The 'Primary Bath' award went to DW Design & Décor in Croton-on-Hudson for an Ossining project. The goal was to transform a dark, outdated primary bathroom into a bright, airy, and tranquil space. The design incorporated a larger shower area and a standalone soaking tub, which was angled to optimize space and functionality. A sophisticated black, white, and gray palette formed the foundation, complemented by a custom vanity with hidden storage and tailored top-down/bottom-up fabric shades for privacy and views. Subtle hues from window treatments and artwork added warmth to the monochromatic scheme. Finally, Garrison Foundry in Garrison received two awards: 'Child’s Bedroom' and 'Mudroom.' For the child's bedroom in Cold Spring, the design focused on functionality and personal expression. A window seat with storage was built to utilize existing architectural features, and the child's personality was incorporated through a vibrant magenta paint and bow-inspired drawer pulls. The project demonstrated how simple choices like wallpaper and paint can reflect individuality. The 'Mudroom' project, also in Cold Spring, was a collaboration aiming to infuse character into a home with good bones but lacking personal touches. Inspired by Scandinavian and Shaker design, the mudroom was made open and functional, featuring a soft green hue and tumbled limestone floor to provide warmth and classic charm, setting the aesthetic tone for the rest of the home. #HomeDesignAwards #HudsonValleyDesign #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #OutdoorLiving #GreatRoom #BathroomRenovation #ChildrensBedroom #MudroomDesign

Designer Laura Hodges transformed a 2,000-square-foot industrial loft in Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood into a serene, light-filled home. The original space featured raw concrete floors and exposed HVAC piping under 18-foot ceilings, elements Hodges systematically replaced or reconfigured. Hodges, a New York School of Interior Design alumna who previously worked for Jamie Drake and Thomas Jayne, established her firm in Maryland in 2016 and later opened her home boutique, Domain by Laura Hodges Studio. The renovation began with a complete overhaul of the existing floor plan and infrastructure. The concrete floors were covered with wide-plank oak, and a clunky builder-grade stair was replaced with a minimalist white-painted metal version with oak treads and handrails. A glass-framed mezzanine was added above the stairwell, contributing to the refined aesthetic. Hodges emphasized the role of artwork in the design, with the walls serving as a neutral canvas. The open-plan living areas were painted in various finishes of Benjamin Moore’s Super White, and all custom design details were constructed on site. The living room, designed for media and entertaining, includes twin sofas, a Bernhardt armchair, and vintage chairs upholstered in chocolate brown Edelman Leather. A custom niche with grass cloth backing and integrated lighting houses a large bookcase, accessed by a custom white oak rolling ladder on a steel track. The kitchen underwent a complete renovation, replacing a turquoise-painted space. Hodges concealed an existing column within a paneled box and installed new floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, including specialized storage for a coffee bar and a movable spice rack. The kitchen now features Imperial Danby marble counters and backsplash, Fisher & Paykel appliances, and Visual Comfort pendants. BB LaMartina's artwork adorns the space. Hodges ingeniously created a secondary space by inserting a wall into the living room, forming a den that functions as a guest room for the homeowners' daughters. This space incorporates a sliding door and blackout curtains for privacy, alongside bronze transom windows that subtly reference the loft's industrial heritage. A wall-mounted desk, sleeper sofa, closet, and an additional bathroom were integrated into this versatile area. The dining area is distinguished by double-height windows equipped with motorized sheer curtains and blackout shades. Hodges custom-designed the dining table, featuring a starburst-patterned cerused white oak top and ebony legs, in collaboration with Goodwood Studios. Oly dining chairs complete the setting. Throughout the renovation, Hodges prioritized maximizing natural light and views of downtown Baltimore. The transformation successfully converted a formerly stark industrial environment into a peaceful and elegant residence, reflecting a blend of modern aesthetics with functional design and a nod to the building's history. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the ample light and scenic views achieved through the design. This project exemplifies Hodges's ability to create sophisticated, livable spaces from challenging industrial settings. #InteriorDesign #LoftConversion #IndustrialToResidential #BaltimoreRealEstate #LauraHodgesStudio #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving

Architect Paul O’Reilly, founder of Archterra, designed and built Bush House as his family home in Margaret River, Western Australia. The 1,808-square-foot residence is situated within a clearing surrounded by jarrah bushland and eucalyptus trees on his family’s cattle farm. O’Reilly's design concept for Bush House was heavily influenced by his lifelong love of camping, particularly the simple shelter provided by a canvas tarpaulin over a four-wheel drive. This inspiration led to the primary design element of a large, single roof, offering protection from the sun, wind, and rain. The house takes cues from California’s iconic Case Study houses of the 1940s to 1960s. O’Reilly implemented a 12-foot structural grid, allowing for a prefabricated steel frame support structure to be erected rapidly. This steel structure, combined with the single-plane roof, created a protected environment that facilitated the subsequent infill timber framing, regardless of weather conditions. The roof plane ascends towards the north, incorporating cedar-framed clerestory windows that offer views of the sky and treetops, providing a warm and tactile contrast to the clear anodized sliding door frames. The floor plan of Bush House is simple and rectilinear. Living areas are located to the east, while sleeping quarters are positioned to the west. A change in floor level and a substantial rammed-earth wall delineate these shared and private zones. This rammed-earth wall extends from the interior to the outdoors, also serving to define the entry approach from the detached carport and workshop. The two guest bedrooms are oriented north to maximize winter sunlight, while the master bedroom faces southwest, capturing views of the sunset through the surrounding tree canopy. A unique feature is the southwest-facing bathroom, which includes a glass door that opens to the bushland, creating an outdoor shower experience. The property features two outdoor decks: one sheltered beneath the roof's overhang and another more exposed area for sun lounging or stargazing. Material selection prioritized durability and low maintenance, with raw galvanized steel, Zincalume metal for external finishes, and rammed earth used for the exterior, all requiring no ongoing upkeep. The interiors incorporate tactile, natural materials such as rammed earth and plywood, chosen to contrast with the more 'synthetic' elements like concrete floors, exposed galvanized steel structure, and white painted plasterboard walls. O'Reilly’s design philosophy for Bush House embraces a 'less is more' approach and the Japanese aesthetic of 'wabi-sabi,' valuing the imperfect and unfinished. Building this home for his family was a deeply personal endeavor, offering him unique insights into the architectural process, particularly in distilling and integrating diverse ideas into a cohesive design. The design also includes practical and aesthetic elements such as light bouncing off the rammed earth wall at sunrise, creating a warm orange glow in the kitchen, and a half-pipe in the backyard for his son. #BushHouse #AustralianArchitecture #RammedEarth #SteelConstruction #PaulOReilly #Archterra #CaseStudyHouses #SustainableDesign #WabiSabi

The 2022 Whole House Design category winner is a grand, Cape Cod-style home that harmonizes historical charm with vibrant coastal colors. This project, located in the Ozarks countryside, was conceptualized, designed, and built from the ground up by Nathan Taylor of Obelisk Home. The inception of the project originated from a chance encounter between Taylor and the homeowners at a cocktail party, leading to a long-term collaboration that started with initial sketches and culminated in a finished residence two years later. Taylor's design vision aimed to infuse the property with the distinctive aesthetic of a traditional Nantucket home, a style not commonly seen in the Ozark region. Key design elements include arched doorways, shadow box paneling throughout the main floor, and a classic East Coast color palette. These features contribute to a rich, historical feel within the home. Jeremy Cook of Cook Haus Design was responsible for translating Taylor's initial concepts into comprehensive architectural plans. The interior layout emphasizes an open-concept flow, integrating the kitchen, dining room, great room, and office space seamlessly. The kitchen and dining area are subtly defined by a lighted shadow box ceiling, an architectural detail that distinguishes it from the expansive living room. The living space is anchored by four oversized leather ottomans, each topped with custom walnut trays. This walnut material is consistently used in a large entertainment cabinet and the base of the kitchen island, creating a cohesive design theme. A significant design choice was the integration of the dining space with the kitchen, foregoing a separate formal dining room. This was achieved through a banquet off the island, upholstered in a rich powder blue leather, paired with a dressy dining table and chairs. A large, floor-to-ceiling china cabinet with built-in lighting and arched crown molding adds a formal touch to this combined space. The home office, positioned beneath a grand floating staircase, offers a cozy retreat with views of the front window, and also allows for easy interaction with the living room. The color scheme of cornflower and dusty blue extends to the upstairs primary bedroom, where it is complemented by bold patterns and lively accents of pink, orange, and fuchsia. The primary bathroom adopts a tone-on-tone approach, utilizing high-end marble in various textures and patterns to create a spa-like atmosphere. A fuchsia rug in the bathroom links back to the vibrant colors of the bedroom, while a molded glass chandelier and sconces add an elegant, historical touch. The exterior of the home holds personal significance for one of the homeowners, as the site was his childhood playground. The back hallway mudroom features an alder bench, stained and painted to match the walnut elements, and cabinetry in a unique "blavy" (black navy) color, adding strength and character to the space. The successful execution of this project, despite its challenges, resulted in the realization of the homeowners' coastal dream home, a sentiment expressed by Taylor regarding their satisfaction. #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #CapeCodStyle #HomeDecor #ObeliskHome #ArchitecturalDesign #CoastalCharm #LuxuryHomes