red brick and colored concrete unify raum’s mixed-use building in nantes

Bertin Bichet Architectes designed a 30-square-metre extension for a detached house in Nantes, France, with the aim of improving the connection between the interior living space and the garden. The clients desired a living area more attuned to their garden and expressed a fondness for Scandinavian architectural styles. The architects, Marjolaine Bichet and Anne Laure Bertin, conceived a simple structure characterized by wooden walls and large windows, strategically placed to maximize the intake of soft northern light. Named Acajou, after a type of wood that is typically a warm reddish-brown and is similar in hue to the exposed cedar window frames, the project utilizes a timber-frame construction method. The exterior of the extension is clad with cedar boards, chosen for their ability to blend with the garden's natural environment. To create a striking visual distinction against the surrounding greenery, these cedar walls were stained black. This choice results in a facade that is both integrated with and distinct from its natural backdrop, highlighting the pale window frames. The original house exemplifies the traditional "maison nantaise" style, featuring a garage at street level and living areas situated above. The upper floor, beneath a pitched roof, contains the bedrooms. The architects introduced a new passageway that effectively bisects the existing house, establishing a direct link between the new rear extension and the front door, which is accessed via a staircase from the street. This design intervention aimed to create diverse spaces with varying levels throughout the property. The new living areas within the extension benefit from ample natural light and garden views through strategically placed windows on the end wall. These openings are framed to highlight specific elements of the garden, such as a stone wall or a fruit tree. A narrow window positioned above the glazed door leading to the garden creates a full-height opening, offering an uninterrupted sightline from the entrance directly into the garden. The central corridor within the existing part of the house provides access to an existing study, bathroom, master bedroom, and kitchen. This corridor then leads into the new extension, connecting to a new dining room on the same level. From the dining room, a staircase descends into a double-height living area. This lower living space features a large picture window, offering expansive views, and an elevated window that provides a visual connection to the adjacent master bedroom. Further enhancing the bright and airy interior, skylights are incorporated above both the living room and dining space, allowing residents to view the sky. The interior design consistently employs chestnut parquet flooring, extending the natural aesthetic throughout the home. #Nantes #ResidentialExtensions #FrenchHouses #France #BlackenedWood #Extensions #Houses #Architecture #HomeDesign

The "PANTIN: A Common House" project by Plan Común, completed in 2023 in Pantin, France, is presented as a built manifesto and an open process involving its inhabitants. This small housing development is designed to define and emphasize shared spaces, aiming to foster community and enhance daily life for its residents. The project covers an area of 340 square meters. The architectural team includes Kim Courrèges, Felipe De Ferrari, Sacha Discors, and Nissim Haguenauer, with Javier Agustín Rojas as the photographer. MAKE ingénierie provided structural engineering, and Qui plus Est handled thermal and fluids engineering. Construction was carried out by La Porta Entreprise for structural works and envelope, Entreprise Delogu for plumbing, and Lelo électricité for electrical works. Studiœmile managed metal works. The design of Maison Commune focuses on creating a living environment that supports collective living and interaction. The project demonstrates an intentional approach to residential architecture, moving beyond conventional housing models to explore how shared facilities and design can encourage social engagement among residents. The emphasis on shared spaces suggests a deliberate strategy to promote community building and mutual support within the development, reflecting a broader trend in architecture towards co-living and collaborative housing solutions. The project's narrative highlights its role as a "direct learning tool," implying that its design and implementation offer valuable insights into future residential developments that prioritize communal well-being. The project's classification under "Apartments" and "Coliving" categories underscores its hybrid nature, blending individual living units with shared communal areas. This typology addresses contemporary housing challenges, such as the increasing demand for affordable living options and the desire for stronger community ties in urban settings. By integrating shared amenities and fostering resident participation, Maison Commune aims to create a more dynamic and interactive living experience than traditional apartment buildings. The architects' intention for the project to be an "open process with its inhabitants" indicates a participatory design approach, where resident input and engagement likely played a role in shaping the final outcome and ongoing life of the community. From a technical perspective, the involvement of various engineering disciplines highlights the complexity and multidisciplinary nature of modern architectural projects. Structural engineering by MAKE ingénierie ensures the building's stability and safety, while thermal and fluids engineering by Qui plus Est addresses environmental performance and occupant comfort. The detailed list of contractors for different building components, such as structural works, plumbing, electrical, and metal works, indicates a comprehensive and coordinated construction process. The project's location in Pantin, France, a commune in the northeastern suburbs of Paris, suggests its relevance to urban development and housing solutions in metropolitan areas. Overall, "PANTIN: A Common House / Plan Común" represents an architectural endeavor that transcends mere construction. It embodies a philosophical approach to residential design, aiming to cultivate a sense of community and shared living through thoughtful spatial organization and resident involvement. The project serves as an example of how architectural design can actively contribute to social goals, offering a model for future housing projects that seek to balance individual privacy with collective engagement and the creation of vibrant living environments. #ResidentialArchitecture #Coliving #CommunityHousing #UrbanDevelopment #SharedSpaces #ArchitecturalDesign #Pantin #France #SustainableDesign

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

The article discusses the evolving landscape of residential architecture, focusing on the increasing urbanization globally and the challenges and opportunities it presents for design and construction. With 56% of the world's population currently residing in urban areas, projected to reach 70% by 2050, there is a growing demand for innovative and sustainable urban housing solutions. This trend necessitates a shift in architectural approaches to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, environmentally responsible, and community-centric. The emphasis is on how architecture can transform the urban environment to adapt to these demographic changes. The article highlights the work of IPA – Architecture and more, a studio that has been at the forefront of this evolution since 2005. IPA's approach is characterized by innovation, a multidisciplinary team of over 150 diverse professionals, and a core belief in collaborative design. Their projects are showcased as case studies demonstrating how residential architecture can address contemporary urban challenges. These projects exemplify community-centered living by integrating design principles that foster social interaction, enhance quality of life, and promote sustainability within high-density urban settings. Key design strategies employed by IPA include the use of prefabricated modular units, which offer flexibility and efficiency in construction while reducing environmental impact. These units are designed to be adaptable, catering to diverse residential needs and promoting a sense of individuality within a larger community. The integration of shared spaces and green infrastructure is another critical aspect of their designs, transforming residential complexes into vibrant communities. These shared amenities, such as communal gardens, recreational areas, and co-working spaces, encourage residents to connect and interact, fostering a stronger sense of community belonging. Green infrastructure not only improves the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to environmental sustainability by enhancing biodiversity, managing stormwater, and improving air quality. The article further elaborates on the importance of sustainable practices in modern residential development. IPA's projects demonstrate a commitment to sustainability through various means, including the selection of eco-friendly materials, optimization of natural light and ventilation, and the incorporation of renewable energy systems. These practices aim to minimize the ecological footprint of buildings, reduce energy consumption, and create healthier living environments for residents. The focus is on creating resilient buildings that can withstand environmental changes and contribute positively to the urban ecosystem. Additionally, the article emphasizes human-driven design, ensuring that architectural solutions prioritize the well-being and needs of the inhabitants. This involves thoughtful spatial planning, accessibility features, and designs that promote physical and mental health. Overall, the article presents IPA – Architecture and more as a model for future residential development, showcasing how a collaborative and innovative approach can lead to sustainable, community-centered living solutions in response to global urbanization trends. Their work underscores the potential of architecture to shape not just buildings, but also the social fabric and environmental health of urban communities. #UrbanDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ResidentialBuilding #Housing #HousingComplex #Apartments #ArchitectureOffice #Interiors #Sustainability #CommunityCenteredLiving #InnovativeDesign

The article details the renovation of a 1970s split-level row house in Hackney, London, undertaken by Archmongers, the architectural firm led by Johan Hybschmann and his wife, Anita Freeman. The project's primary goals were to modernize the home for contemporary living, enhance its energy efficiency, and introduce more natural light into the interior spaces. The renovation adheres to Archmongers' commitment to using honest, exposed materials and traditional wood joinery, incorporating a palette of brick, galvanized steel, cast concrete, and timber. Before the renovation, the house had remained largely untouched since the 1970s, retaining its original structural elements like masonry, timber framework, and exposed concrete. However, its layout was inefficient, marked by a ground-floor garage that created an awkward entrance and a constricted kitchen/dining area. The original design also featured excessive storage and limited daylight connection to the street, with most rooms facing the rear garden. Archmongers addressed these issues by extending the ground floor and converting the garage into more functional living spaces. A new in-situ cast concrete extension at the rear significantly expanded the kitchen and dining areas on the lower level. This extension's insulated slab not only provides thermal insulation but also forms a new garden terrace, which doubles as a structural foundation to help distribute the load of both the existing and new facades. The flat roof of this extension was designed to accommodate a green roof at the first-floor level, contributing to the home's sustainability and biodiversity. The renovation focused on opening up the three-floor structure to create a more spatially vertical feel. Plasterboard walls were removed to reveal the underlying structural logic of the house, making its various elements more legible. The underside of the stairs was exposed to enhance spatial clarity, and strategically placed internal windows were incorporated to introduce sight lines and flood the interior with natural light. The rear elevation was further opened up with sliding doors at ground level and a large new window on the first floor, offering views of the new green roof from the living room. The design draws inspiration from Northern European modernism, with specific references to architectural works in Hybschmann’s native Denmark, including Wohlert’s Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Finn Juhl’s house in Ordrup, and Arne Jacobsen’s Søholm houses, as well as Alvar Aalto’s homes in Finland. The interior design features a harmonious blend of gray brick, white-washed walls, and natural timber finishes. These are complemented by bold accents of red in the exposed steel beams, columns, and handrails, and by the terra-cotta tiles used on the lower floor. Repeated rectilinear motifs are consistently applied throughout the material arrangement, contributing to a unified aesthetic. In terms of exterior enhancements, the rear garden and the wildflower green roof were planted with indigenous species. A new, small pond was added to encourage local wildlife. The planting scheme, designed by Anita Freeman, specifically aims to boost biodiversity within the property’s limited footprint. The renovation successfully transformed a dated 1970s house into a modern, energy-efficient home that maximizes natural light and space while maintaining a strong connection to its natural surroundings and modernist architectural principles. #LondonRenovation #SeventiesRowHouse #ArchitecturalRenovation #EnergyEfficiency #ModernistDesign #GreenRoof #ExposedMaterials #NaturalLight #SustainableDesign

This Melbourne residence, owned by artist Kylie Thomas and her husband Tim Collier, underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a Federation home with a dated 1990s extension into a versatile space that functions both as a grand art gallery and a comfortable family sanctuary. When the couple acquired the property in 2015, they were drawn to its generous garden and the original Federation architecture, characterized by ornate timber detailing, bay windows, and a wraparound verandah. However, the existing open-plan addition from the 1990s presented challenges with poor flow, lack of zoning, and an awkward 45-degree angle that didn't integrate seamlessly with the older part of the house. The prevalent red timbers also contributed to an outdated aesthetic. Architect Chris Stanley of Splinter Society was tasked with a multi-faceted brief: to incorporate concrete's monumentality, which the owners appreciated, while maintaining sensitivity to the heritage home's elegant and flamboyant details. Additionally, a coastal feel, with weathered, driftwood tones, was desired to soften the concrete elements. The overarching goal was to harmoniously blend contrasting styles—old and new, grandeur and family warmth—and ensure a seamless connection with the extensive backyard. Stanley addressed the 1990s addition by replacing it with a new extension featuring a striking colonnade of windows framing the pool. These concrete columns visually echo the timber uprights of the Federation verandah, establishing a commonality between the heritage and modern sections. The colonnade extends throughout the new areas, mitigating sunlight and providing a monumental presence without being overwhelming. Infilled with banquettes and lit with spotlights, these spaces also serve as display areas for Kylie's art. A new entry on the south side now acts as a clear transition point between the old and new, creating distinct zones for family living. The original section of the house, previously a living room, has been reconfigured to house the children's bedrooms, each with an ensuite, emphasizing private spaces. The new open-plan extension, while maintaining connectivity, is effectively zoned by the columns, which function as nib walls, allowing family members to engage in different activities simultaneously. The material palette includes light-toned concrete, chosen to evoke a washed, coastal aesthetic, complemented by limed timber floors in the original section. The design prioritizes warmth through the strategic use of timber, curtains, and rugs, and incorporates judicious pops of color in furnishings, selected with the assistance of interior designer Danielle Balscheit. The kitchen, designed as a central gathering space, integrates the colonnade and concrete with metal-framed windows, a scalloped metal bench finish, and a soaring raked ceiling with a skylight, enhancing natural light. This area fosters a strong indoor-outdoor connection with views of the meadow, creating a feeling of spaciousness and height. The home also features practical considerations like heated concrete floors, providing comfort year-round. This thoughtful renovation has successfully transformed the property into a dynamic space that balances the homeowner's artistic inclinations with the needs of a modern family, bridging historical elegance with contemporary design. #HeritageHomeRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalTransformation #ConcreteDesign #ArtGalleryHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalInteriors #IndoorOutdoorFlow #FederationArchitecture

Studio Krubka designed P Home in Bangkok as a hybrid residence and office, skillfully layering diverse functions within a compact concrete structure on a 400 sqm urban plot. This architectural project integrates rental offices, a private studio, and a family home, demonstrating how urban living can maintain a strong connection to natural elements despite its density. The design directly addresses Bangkok's challenging climate, characterized by intense sunlight and heavy monsoon rains, by incorporating features that maximize natural ventilation and daylight penetration. The vertical organization of P Home is central to its design. Parking facilities are located on the ground floor. The second level and its mezzanine are dedicated to office spaces. The residential areas, encompassing the third floor and an upper mezzanine, are distinctly separated yet seamlessly integrated through thoughtful design. Circulation paths within the building are carefully choreographed to create transitions and moments of openness. A red steel staircase serves as the primary vertical access for office users, providing a visually striking contrast to the surrounding fair-faced concrete. For residents, a private elevator offers exclusive access to their living quarters. The residential zone features a central courtyard, a pivotal element of the design, anchored by a mature Crescentia alata Kunth tree. This open-air space functions as the heart of the family home, mediating between interior rooms and the external environment. It allows for natural light, fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. The act of crossing this courtyard to enter the double-height living room is intended to create a daily ritual that acknowledges and integrates nature into the residents' lives. Large sliding doors, strategically placed skylights, and a retractable fabric canopy are incorporated to manage daylight, facilitate breezes, and offer protection from rain, ensuring comfort and adaptability to varying weather conditions. The interior design of P Home is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic, allowing the inherent qualities of the materials to shape the space. Fair-faced concrete, with its smooth surfaces achieved through steel molds, forms the primary structural and aesthetic component. Glass blocks and perforated bricks are used to filter light and airflow, contributing to the building's climate responsiveness. The combination of these materials, alongside accents like red spray-painted steel, creates an environment where light and shadow play a significant role in defining the spatial atmosphere. This approach aims to create a sanctuary where the solidity of concrete coexists harmoniously with the tropical climate and the daily lives of its occupants. Ultimately, P Home serves as an exploration of how architecture in a dense urban setting like Bangkok can remain open, breathable, and deeply connected to nature. By vertically stacking multiple programs and integrating natural elements, Studio Krubka successfully designed a structure that provides both functional spaces and a serene living environment. The central courtyard, beyond its climatic function, acts as a symbolic link, embedding the rhythm of nature into everyday life within an urban context. #BangkokArchitecture #HybridBuilding #ConcreteArchitecture #GreenCourtyard #TropicalDesign #ResidentialOffice #SustainableUrbanism #StudioKrubka

DNK Architecture Group has transformed a former furniture factory in Moscow, dating back to the 1980s, into loft-style apartments. The project, named Rassvet Loft Studio, is located in a historic district characterized by redbrick buildings and has been longlisted for a Dezeen Award 2019. The conversion involved two main structures: Rassvet 3.34, a ten-story industrial building, and Rassvet 3.20, a complex of lower units that previously served as workers' housing. A key aspect of the renovation involved replacing the original prefabricated concrete panel cladding with handmade clinker bricks. These bricks, fired at high temperatures, create a shiny surface that contributes to the building's renewed aesthetic. The facade is further punctuated by zinc-framed windows, adding to the contemporary yet respectful design. To mitigate the visual scale of the larger structure, DNK Architecture Group designed the facades to resemble a series of individual homes, each the width of a single apartment. This approach gives the impression of medieval row houses, with each 'house' featuring distinct brickwork textures and colors, framed windows, and balconies. At both large gable ends of the main block, a glazed cut has been introduced down the center. This design element serves to maximize natural light penetration into the apartments. The surrounding grooved brickwork patterns create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow across the building's surface. Inside the apartments, the original concrete skeleton of the factory has been preserved, retaining a sense of industrial heritage. Many of the six-meter-high factory floor areas have been converted into double-height apartments, incorporating mezzanines to optimize space. The converted attic spaces also feature double-height apartments, which open onto small private terraces. At ground level, each apartment has its own entrance and a small garden, elevated on a brick plinth. The project also features a distinctive circular cut-out in the ceiling of the block's main entrance, which casts a moving patch of light on the wall throughout the day, inspired by the Rassvet Loft Studio's solar circle logo. The smaller blocks contain townhouse-style apartments, offering a mix of one, two, and three-level homes. These units are topped with metal-clad dormer windows. Each townhouse includes its own approach and front door, with some benefiting from a small garden area enclosed by a low wall. Cuts in the roofline of these smaller units have been repurposed into terrace spaces, offering secluded outdoor areas sheltered by the projecting dormers. The photographic documentation of the project was carried out by Ilya Ivanov, showcasing the architectural transformation. This adaptive reuse project exemplifies a modern approach to revitalizing industrial structures for residential purposes in Moscow, joining other notable housing developments in the city such as Team Paul de Vroom + Sputnik's tower blocks and MVRDV's constructivist-inspired apartment block designs. #RassvetLoftStudio #DNKArchitectureGroup #MoscowArchitecture #FactoryConversion #LoftApartments #AdaptiveReuse #HandmadeBricks #ResidentialArchitecture #UrbanRenewal

This article highlights ten buildings that utilize decorative brick facades to create unique and visually engaging exteriors. Bricks, a globally prevalent building material, are showcased not just for their structural integrity but also for their versatility in aesthetic applications. The inherent small, rectangular shape of bricks allows for diverse decorative effects, including variations in color, complex forms, intricate patterns, and strategic perforations. The featured projects demonstrate a wide array of architectural styles and functions. The Gadi House in India, by PMA Madhushala, features a facade of protruding and perforated bricks over a stone base, designed to ventilate the home and minimize the need for mechanical cooling. At the Kitrvs winery in Greece, ETH Zürich researchers used an "augmented bricklaying" technique to create a semi-transparent facade of over 13,000 individually rotated and mortared bricks, mimicking the movement of light on liquid. The Arches in the UK, by The DHaus Company, incorporates layers of red-brick slips forming arches that frame doors and balconies, paying tribute to nearby Victorian railway architecture. Wallmakers' Pirouette House in India employs the rat-trap bond technique to construct curved and twisting brick walls that animate the facade while concealing structural elements. Bureau de Change's The Interlock in London showcases matte blue bricks that appear to swell around its windows, utilizing 5,000 bespoke bricks in 44 shapes and sizes, meticulously modeled and templated for precise arrangement. Museum de Lakenhal in the Netherlands, designed by Happel Cornelisse Verhoeven and Julian Harrap Architects, features concertina-style folds and bricks set at varying angles, evoking woven textiles and referencing the site's history as a fabric factory. Kohan Ceram, the headquarters of a brick manufacturer in Tehran by Hooba Design Group, presents a six-storey facade with bricks incorporating circular glass inserts, forming distinctive patterns alongside protruding brick blocks. In Vietnam, CTA's Wall House utilizes hole-punctured bricks, seemingly haphazardly stacked, to create a tactile, irregular surface that also funnels air and sunlight into the multi-generational home. Studio Lotus's Krushi Bhawan government building in India features an elaborate brick facade made from three different colored clays, arranged to emulate the traditional Odisha Ikat dyeing technique. Finally, the Shah Muhammad Mohshin Khan Mausoleum in Bangladesh by Sthapotik is defined by six red-brick turrets with perforated tops for natural ventilation, elevated on a brick platform to mitigate flood risks. These examples collectively illustrate how brick, beyond its fundamental utility, can be transformed into an expressive architectural element, contributing significantly to a building's aesthetic identity, environmental performance, and cultural narrative. #BrickFacades #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #SustainableDesign #BuildingMaterials #InnovativeConstruction #CulturalReferences #ArchitecturalRoundup

Notan Office, a local Brussels studio, completed a 140-square-meter rooftop extension named Lincoln for a penthouse apartment in a residential area. The extension, largely invisible from street level due to its setback design, adds two new living areas with floor-to-ceiling windows and terraces on both the front and rear facades, while the existing top floor was converted into a private bedroom. The design ingeniously integrates existing structural elements—a circulation core and two ventilation shafts—into the new layout, transforming them from potential obstacles into primary functional 'cores' that dictate the apartment's spatial organization. A key feature of the extension is a distinctive fireplace, constructed from concrete and ceramic blocks, which wraps around one corner of the central stairwell block. This fireplace is inspired by the chimneys designed by Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto. The design incorporates raw, honest materials like construction blocks and concrete to create an industrial, urban aesthetic, balanced by a color palette of warm orange and cool greys. The architect, Frédéric Karam, intended to evoke an organic and rough sensation, emphasizing an artisanal quality that embraces textures, imperfections, and an element of uncontrolled final result. The layout promotes fluid movement through the apartment. A corridor encircles the central block, connecting four corner rooms. The kitchen and dining areas are positioned towards the street-facing facade, while a secondary living space and loggia are located at the rear. Bathrooms and utility spaces are discreetly placed to the sides. Karam highlights the project's fluid addition of spaces, each with unique characteristics and unexpected interrelationships, fostering a continuous sense of discovery and varying spatial relations. A section of the roof over the circulation area is tilted upwards to incorporate a window, drawing morning light into the front facade. Full-height glazing across the facades provides expansive views of the city and allows ample natural light to penetrate the interiors. Sliding doors in the front offer direct access from the kitchen to a terrace that spans the length of the apartment. A second outdoor area is a covered balcony within the loggia at the rear, creating unobstructed sightlines through the entire building. The main living areas are painted white, with distinct textures defining each zone. Plywood is extensively used in the kitchen for a floor-to-ceiling unit with a built-in bar and a floating work surface. The outdoor spaces, including the loggia and front terrace, are unified by matching wooden planks and steel fiber-cement cladding. Karam expresses his current preference for the kitchen space, noting its contradictory role as both a core and a transitional element that effectively connects the dining and living areas. The design also integrates various space-saving storage solutions, such as shelves built into the circulation core and above the loggia entrance. The kitchen's two core units are highly functional, concealing appliances like the fridge, oven, and dishwasher, along with extensive storage, and a floating countertop houses a stove and drawers. Notan Office, led by Frédéric Karam, operates through temporary partnerships and is active across Switzerland, Belgium, France, and Lebanon. #ResidentialExtensions #NotanOffice #ResidentialArchitecture #Plywood #Concrete #Brussels #Extensions #Belgium #AlvarAalto

James Baker's curiosity was piqued by a boxy building near the Baton Rouge Country Club, hidden behind a tall, vine-covered barrier, recognizing its departure from the traditional south Louisiana architectural style. One Sunday, he discovered the secluded home was for sale and scheduled an open house. This timing was serendipitous, as he and his wife, Marsha, had been contemplating building a new home. Upon visiting, they were immediately captivated by the property's design, which featured massive windows looking out onto a lush private garden and a dramatically designed pool. Within days, they made an offer on the house. The home’s appealing features—streamlined structural details, an open floor plan, ample space for art, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living—are characteristic of the tropical modern architectural movement prevalent in Miami. The house, built a dozen years prior, reflected the original owner’s preference for this South Florida aesthetic. Consistent with tropical modern design, tall and wide windows and doors throughout the home offer expansive views of the landscape and water features. Polished marble flooring extends from the interior to the exterior, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel. The overall ambiance is Zen-like, filled with natural light, and conducive to relaxed living, offering a warmer interpretation of typical modernism. Despite their previous homes being more traditional, the Bakers found the contemporary vibe of this house perfectly suited for their extensive and growing art collection, which primarily consists of bold and abstract pieces. The home's empty white walls provided ideal gallery spaces for displaying art acquired during their travels, as well as works by Louisiana artists sourced through Ann Connelly Fine Art in Baton Rouge and Soren Christensen Gallery in New Orleans. For the renovation, the Bakers enlisted Todd Normand of Bernhard Normand Construction. The project involved relocating a bar nook in the main open room to a separate living area, adding a fireplace and bookshelves to the opposite side of the room, and redesigning the master bathroom to include a sleek vanity alcove. Designers Helaine Moyse and Patrick Tandy, long-term collaborators with the Bakers, helped integrate the couple’s existing classic furniture with new contemporary pieces. This blend is exemplified in the dining area, where an 8x8-foot abstract painting by Meredith Pardue is framed by Venetian glass sconces and paired with a weathered antique Spanish dining table. Marsha noted that the mix of antique and modern elements, encouraged by the designers, prevented the space from feeling overly contemporary, maintaining a sense of warmth. The existing kitchen, featuring contemporary glass, metal, and exotic wood cabinet panels, initially challenged Marsha’s preference for all-white kitchens. However, replacing the dark granite backsplash with a multi-hued linear version brightened the space, and she eventually grew to appreciate its unique style, especially noting James's enjoyment of cooking there. Marsha, alongside friends Stacey Davis and Stacy Johnson, recently launched Envy, a decorating firm that began with holiday décor and expanded into full-service design. Through Envy, Marsha sourced window treatments and other furnishings for their new home, adding personal touches to the already impressive structure. The couple also took on most of the landscaping themselves, incorporating ferns, elephant ears, and other tropical-inspired plants around existing palm trees, with some natural materials from Red Onion and additional trees from Steve Rowley of Hydro-Scapes. They enjoy working in the flowerbeds and spending evenings on their marble-floored porch, which remains shaded and comfortable, watching the sunset with their three dogs. The once-mysterious home has become a cherished, comfortable space for the Bakers. #ModernArchitecture #TropicalModernStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #OpenFloorPlan #OutdoorLiving #LouisianaHomes #BatonRouge

The Ankle Residence, designed by Rahul Pudale Design in Belagavi, India, is a multi-family dwelling accommodating three distinct households for three brothers, each on its own floor. The architectural concept aims to balance individual living spaces with a cohesive family environment, fostering interaction while maintaining individual identities. Situated on a corner plot with limited surrounding greenery, the residence leverages its position to create a visually striking and engaging facade. Key to the design is the integration of concrete and weathered brick. Concrete boxes are seamlessly incorporated into the facade, contrasting with the rough texture of the brick walls. This blend of materials and forms results in a dynamic and captivating aesthetic. Extended terraces are a significant feature, connecting living spaces across different floors and promoting a sense of community and interaction among the residents. The overall design emphasizes a blend of rough textures and clean lines, contributing to its modern and sculptural appearance. Sustainability and connection to nature are also considered. The structure is strategically offset on the west side to encourage natural growth within its boundaries. Planter boxes are integrated into the terraces and balconies, bringing greenery directly into the living areas and allowing residents to cultivate plants, effectively creating evolving natural tapestries on the building's exterior. Staggered, board-marked concrete boxes emerge from the exposed brick walls, adding an artistic dimension. These sculptural elements guide the viewer's gaze along the facade, providing rhythm and movement and adding depth and visual interest from all angles. Inside, the residence continues the material dialogue established on the exterior. Exposed concrete accents on interior walls mirror the external design, creating a visual link between the inside and outside. This modern industrial aesthetic of concrete is juxtaposed with smooth white walls and warm wood furniture, contributing to a contemporary yet inviting atmosphere. Stone flooring introduces a touch of rustic elegance with its earthy tones and subtle variations, while cement tiles add a modern twist with geometric patterns. Full-height windows are extensively used throughout the residence, merging interior spaces with the exterior. These large openings facilitate ample natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience and providing a harmonious connection with the outdoors. The concrete boxes serve both aesthetic and functional purposes within the interior, creating terraces, balconies, wardrobes, and restrooms. This thoughtful incorporation optimizes space and contributes to a modern living experience. The cohesive facade wraps around the building's corners, ensuring a unified visual experience that reinforces the building's identity and presence within the urban landscape, distinguishing it through its elegant silhouette and distinctive material interplay. #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteDesign #BrickArchitecture #MultiFamilyHousing #IndianArchitecture #FacadeDesign #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture #MaterialInterplay

The "K-Town" project by Steven Fong Architect addresses the economic challenges faced by small businesses within diasporic communities, particularly those operating in narrow storefronts of approximately 4.5 meters (15 feet). These businesses, often found in low-rise main street areas adjacent to residential neighborhoods, typically occupy single or two-story buildings. The project aims to provide a sustainable architectural model that can be replicated across various diaspora communities in cities like Toronto, where numerous such enclaves exist. The core concept involves transforming these modest commercial spaces by adding residential units above. This strategy allows the property owners to generate additional income from rental housing, thereby reducing the financial burden on their businesses. The architectural design integrates commercial activities at the ground level with residential living above, promoting a mixed-use typology that fosters both economic stability and community vibrancy. The design considers the unique characteristics of each site while adhering to a broader framework that supports small-scale commercial enterprises. This approach aims to preserve the cultural and economic fabric of these communities by offering a viable alternative to purely commercial ventures, which are often more susceptible to economic fluctuations. The project emphasizes efficient use of space and resources. By layering residential functions over commercial ones, it maximizes the utility of limited urban plots, a common constraint in dense urban environments. The design process likely involved careful consideration of building codes, zoning regulations, and the specific needs of both business owners and residents. Materials and construction methods would have been selected to ensure durability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic compatibility with the existing urban context. The integration of light, ventilation, and access for both commercial and residential components would have been crucial design considerations. Furthermore, the "K-Town" model offers a solution for urban revitalization. Many low-rise main streets in Toronto and similar cities face challenges such as aging infrastructure, changing consumer habits, and rising property costs. By introducing new residential components, these areas can attract more residents, increasing foot traffic for local businesses and contributing to a more active and secure streetscape. This dual functionality helps to create more resilient urban environments that can adapt to evolving economic and social pressures. The architects likely engaged with community stakeholders to ensure that the proposed interventions were culturally sensitive and met the needs of the target population. The successful implementation of this architectural solution could serve as a precedent for similar urban areas globally, offering a practical framework for supporting small businesses and fostering sustainable community development. The project aims to empower small business owners by providing them with diversified income streams, allowing them to thrive in increasingly competitive urban markets. This model not only secures the future of individual businesses but also contributes to the overall economic and social well-being of the broader diaspora communities, helping them to maintain their distinct identities and continue contributing to the cultural richness of their cities. #MixedUseArchitecture #CommercialArchitecture #ResidentialArchitecture #UrbanDevelopment #DiasporaCommunities #Toronto #Canada #SmallBusinessSupport #ArchitecturalSolution

The article details the transformation of Montreal's former Royal Bank Tower into a coworking space named Crew Collective. This Neo-classical bank, once Canada's tallest building and a key feature of Saint-Jacques Street during its 'Wall Street' era, was built in 1928 and abandoned by the Royal Bank of Canada in 2010. The startup group Crew Collective, which includes a network of designers and developers, commissioned architect Henri Cleinge to convert the ground floor into a shared office, cafe, and their company headquarters. Cleinge's architectural intervention focused on preserving the building's original grandeur while introducing modern functionality. This involved repairing existing features such as the marble inlay flooring, the 50-foot vaulted ceilings, and the original brass fixtures and light fittings. The architect emphasized a 'discreet intervention' to maintain a delicate balance between the historic elements and the new additions, ensuring the old features remained primary while the new components were distinct but not overwhelming. Key design decisions included repurposing existing structures; for instance, counters previously used for deposit slips now serve coffee drinkers in the cafe area. To define separate zones within the expansive space, teller counters were utilized to delineate the public cafe from the private office areas. Additionally, brass-plated steel partitions and glass walls were incorporated to create individual meeting rooms without visually segmenting the large hall. The use of glass was particularly significant, chosen for its discretion and modernity, allowing for transparency that ensures all elements, both old and new, remain visible. This approach prevented the space from being compartmentalized, maintaining an open feel while still providing necessary divisions. The coworking space offers various membership options, including permanent desks and hourly rental of meeting rooms. This project exemplifies adaptive reuse, breathing new life into a significant historical landmark. The design successfully integrates contemporary workspace requirements into an opulent, heritage-rich setting, offering a unique environment for professionals. The detailed restoration and careful introduction of new elements highlight a thoughtful approach to preserving architectural history while meeting modern demands. #CoworkingSpace #Montreal #AdaptiveReuse #HistoricArchitecture #InteriorDesign #HenriCleinge #RoyalBankTower #OfficeDesign

RAAD Studio recently undertook the redesign of a luxury apartment located at 240 Centre Street, a Beaux-Arts style former police headquarters in New York City. The building, over 100 years old, was converted into 55 luxury condominiums in the late 1980s. This particular apartment, now showcasing RAAD Studio's vision, features a blend of classic grandeur and modern design. The most striking element of the redesign is found in the master bedroom, which incorporates one of the building's signature domes into its ceiling. This arched, original wood ceiling creates an impressive and unique focal point, enhanced by nautical-style windows carved into the canopy. The design includes wedge-shaped skylights, open wooden shelving, and contemporary built-ins along the room's lower perimeter, all contributing to an expansive and visually captivating space. Beyond the master bedroom, the loft maintains a distinctly modern aesthetic while thoughtfully preserving historical details. Exposed brickwork throughout the apartment serves to bridge the gap between contemporary design elements and the building's enduring classic charm. This contrast is particularly evident in the open kitchen, which combines a stone counter, sleek metal stools, and stainless steel appliances. To prevent an overly austere appearance, the kitchen incorporates staggered pendant lighting, rustic brick, and a built-in bench, which collectively soften the industrial edges and introduce warmth into the area. The redesign by RAAD Studio exemplifies how historical architectural features can be integrated with modern sensibilities to create a sophisticated and inviting living space. The project highlights a successful balance between respecting the building's heritage and introducing contemporary functionality and style. The transformation of this loft underscores the potential for creating arresting and functional interiors within historically significant structures. #RAADStudio #LoftRedesign #CentreStreet #PoliceBuilding #LuxuryApartment #BeauxArtsArchitecture #WoodenDome #Nolita #InteriorDesign #HistoricConversion

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

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