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Double-height gallery space viewed through arched opening
CategoriesInterior Design

StudioTwentySeven opens “monumental” flagship gallery in Tribeca

By Zarkon Group,

Collectible design gallery StudioTwentySeven has taken over a huge space in a Tribeca textile building, creating a warm and serene environment to present museum-sized, limited-edition pieces.

The gallery’s New York City flagship at the corner of Church and Leonard Streets covers 7,000 square feet (650 square metres) across the ground floor of a 1901 neoclassical building by architect Henry J Hardenbergh.

Double-height gallery space viewed through arched openingDouble-height gallery space viewed through arched opening
StudioTwentySeven founders Nacho Polo and Robert Onsuka introduced curved walls and archways to the interior of their flagship gallery

Formerly Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Restaurant 66, the grand space benefits from double-height ceilings and eight 16-foot-tall windows on two sides, overlooking the mirrored Anish Kapoor sculpture squashed beneath Herzog & de Meuron’s “Jenga Tower”.

StudioTwentySeven founders Nacho Polo and Robert Onsuka, who started their venture in Miami in 2018, chose this location for the New York flagship for its “monumental scale” and ability to showcase huge sculptural works.

Gallery with hanging bear sculpture by Italian artist Paola Pivi in the backgroundGallery with hanging bear sculpture by Italian artist Paola Pivi in the background
The double-height ceilings allow large-scale pieces to be displayed, like a hanging bear sculpture by Paola Pivi

“The building’s elaborately carved facade, and its stone entry staircase leading to beautifully restored original triple doors, set the tone for what clients of StudioTwentySeven will experience inside – a space that is sophisticated yet genuinely welcoming,” said the duo.

Led by Polo, the renovation of interiors involved the introduction of curved walls and a rotunda, along with an archway fitted with a 12-foot-tall, hand-carved chestnut door.

Giant bronze and glass chandelier above an organic-shaped dining tableGiant bronze and glass chandelier above an organic-shaped dining table
A giant bronze and glass chandelier hangs above an organic-shaped dining table

The team worked with lighting specialists L’Observatorie to design a custom system that imbues the space with a warm atmospheric quality, complementing the pieces on display.

A massive bronze and glass chandelier comprising hundreds of individual petals is suspended above an organically shaped French oak and waxed bronze dining table.

Pale oak floors run throughout the gallery, in places separated from the walls by glowing bands of light, and sheer curtains diffuse the abundance of natural light that enters during the day.

Other architectural details include a tall fireplace shaped into the hand-plastered walls and a chestnut-lined library hidden behind a pair of discreet doors, designed to “create moments of surprise”.

Dimly lit rotunda for displaying collectible designDimly lit rotunda for displaying collectible design
The founders also created a rotunda space for displaying specific pieces

For the gallery’s opening in February 2023, several museum-sized works from Polo and Onsuka’s private collection were installed in the space.

These include a hanging bear by Italian artist Paola Pivi, which had to be transported from the Aspen Art Museum in a special truck, and a bronze sculpture titled Owl and Boy by Japan-based Otani Workshop.

Hidden library lined in chestnutHidden library lined in chestnut
“Moments of surprise” include a hidden library lined in chestnut

Polo and Onsuka, who were judges for Dezeen Awards 2023, also have gallery spaces in Miami’s Little River and London’s Mayfair – open by appointment only.

Their new flagship in Tribeca joins a multitude of collectible design galleries in the Downtown NYC neighbourhood, like R & Company and Egg Collective, where expansive former industrial lofts provide ideal settings for presenting furniture, lighting and art.

The photography is by William Jess Laird.



Reference

Providing modular bamboo homes at affordable prices
CategoriesSustainable News

Providing modular bamboo homes at affordable prices

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: Myanmar is facing a severe housing crisis, as conflict triggered by the military takeover in 2021 has resulted in the internal displacement of around 1.95 million people, according to the UN Refugee Agency. Social enterprise Housing NOW, founded by Myanmar-based design group Blue Temple, is working to build affordable housing using an innovative and sustainable technique.

Housing NOW uses bamboo as a construction material for building prefabricated, modular structures at a cost of around $1,000 (around €923) per unit. Using computational tools, the company generated a structure optimised to respond to forces such as earthquakes and wind loads.

Because larger-diameter bamboo is more expensive, small-diameter bamboo was used instead, and bundled together to produce a structure that’s stronger than conventional, load-bearing, large-diameter bamboo. The hybrid construction technique allowed the creation of prefabricated ‘structural frames’, which were then combined with local construction and assembly of the remaining parts of the house. The result is a large-scale and affordable housing solution.

In 2022, Housing NOW started a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, which raised enough funding to construct six modules as part of a pilot project. The company plans to continue raising funds and expanding the project.

The promise of bamboo as a renewable resource is catching on. Springwise has also spotted a platform for investing in low-impact bamboo and the development of land for sustainable bamboo growth in Jamaica.

Written By: Lisa Magloff

Reference

© MUA Architecture & Placemaking
CategoriesArchitecture

10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia

By Zarkon Group,

Georgia is located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea. Being a transcontinental country, Georgia’s architecture reflects many civilization influences, with the most notable period being the medieval era. One example is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite frescoes and architectural details. Throughout history, Georgia has been home to many visionary architects. From the intricate stone carvings of the Vardzia cave monastery to the elegant design of the Tbilisi Opera House, these masterpieces continue to inspire awe and admiration. Among the luminaries of Georgian architecture are Victor Djorbenadze, known for his pioneering work in modernist architecture, and Zurab Tsereteli, whose monumental sculptures and architectural projects have earned international acclaim.

At the start of the 21st century, after the Rose Revolution, which marked the end of the country’s Soviet era, Georgia’s architectural landscape changed dramatically. Especially, Tbilisi, the Georgian capital, became the epicenter for avant-garde architecture. An array of new public architecture projects, such as the Peace Bridge by Michele De Lucchi and the House of Parliament by Alberto Domingo Cabo, introduced new ideas, forms and materials, eventually leading to a modern Georgina architecture that reflected a fusion of global trends and local identity. Nowadays, Georgia continues to evolve with several infrastructural projects and numerous social housing schemes being implemented. Nevertheless, its most contemporary architectural “landmarks” are a series of public buildings, such as the Meama factory by Giorgi Khmaladze, which have emerged through carefully crafted designs, site-specific considerations and environmental awareness.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Georgia based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2024)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Georgia architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 10 best architecture firms in Georgia:

10. MUA Architecture & Placemaking

© MUA Architecture & Placemaking

© MUA Architecture & Placemaking

MUA are a Tbilisi-based architectural office with more than 10 years of experience in architecture, urban and spatial design. Their work is a combination of constant dialogue with the environment, versatile exploration methods, a creative approach and in-depth technical knowledge. The team believes in lateral thinking, which provokes the ability to perceive patterns that are not obvious. Their aim is to produce work beneficial to society. With thorough thought, human-centered and bespoke architectural solutions and design, MUA transform spaces into places.

Some of MUA Architecture & Placemaking’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped MUA Architecture & Placemaking achieve 10th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 2

9. AD1369105

© AD1369105

© AD1369105

The bureau designs buildings and facilities with functions and types. By resolving architectural tasks of different scale, we are able to create high quality urban environment.

Some of AD1369105’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped AD1369105 achieve 9th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 4

8. SEDUM.ARCHITECTS

© SEDUM.ARCHITECTS

© SEDUM.ARCHITECTS

SEDUM. ARCHITECTS focuses on works at the intersection of architecture, environment and new technology.

Some of SEDUM.ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped SEDUM.ARCHITECTS achieve 8th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 4

7. artytechs

© artytechs

© artytechs

Artytechs was founded in 2014. Since its establishment, the company has collaborated closely with both the public and private sectors, resulting in the successful implementation of numerous projects. The name of Artytechs has become synonymous with international architectural excellence, as the company has received multiple prestigious awards. Artytechs is known for its ability to create intricate and imaginative projects that surpass traditional architectural approaches.

Some of artytechs’s most prominent projects include:

  • Eliava Park, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Multi Functional Complex, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Multi-functional complex at Mtatsminda, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Hotel “Museum”, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Individual House , Saguramo, Georgia

The following statistics helped artytechs achieve 7th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 7

6. SPECTRUM

© SPECTRUM

© SPECTRUM

Founded in 2014, Spectrum represents fully integrated design build firm based in Tbilisi Georgia, operating in fields of architecture, interiors, master planning that design and builds unique and bespoke projects. Company specializes in providing services in commercial and residential sectors. Team of talented designers, architects, builders and analysts strive to bring Client’s ideas into reality in a most efficient and innovative ways, preserving the environment and always considering the local tradition and context.

Consolidated group of professionals committed to create and deliver world class solutions enriched with local traditions, context and latest technology. We aim to create long lasting values that embrace environmental impact, social and economical platforms with global reach and local context. We relish the challenges inherent across a wide range of work, engaging our expertise and agility to deliver lasting, meaningful design that brings value and contributes towards healthier planet.

Some of SPECTRUM’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped SPECTRUM achieve 6th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 24

5. Laboratory of architecture #3

© Giorgi Mamasakhlisi

© Giorgi Mamasakhlisi

Laboratory of Architecture # 3 is working in the field of architecture and design. It was founded in 2006 by Irakli Abashidze.

Some of Laboratory of architecture #3’s most prominent projects include:

  • Glarros Oldtown, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Terracotta pavilion house, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Zzip Honey shop, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Triangular House, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Fillet corner house, Tbilisi, Georgia

The following statistics helped Laboratory of architecture #3 achieve 5th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 2
Total Projects 5

4. MHD Group

© MHD Group

© MHD Group

Design Team LTD “MHD Group” was founded in 2012, and since then, the group has been mainly focused on general architecture and interior design. MHD Group offers the full package of a complete project, including: structural, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, and HVAC design, as well as geological and topographical research. The team brings together professionals in their respective fields with years of experience, who can create exceptional and outstanding building designs in accordance with modern standards and requirements.

The company’s experience comprises designs of various types of buildings, starting with ordinary multi-storied complexes and individual residential houses, as well as atypical and unusual shaped structures and more.

Some of MHD Group’s most prominent projects include:

  • Community Center in Udabno, Udabno, Georgia
  • Public Registry Office, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Public Service Hall in Tianeti, Tianeti, Georgia
  • Public Service Hall in Stepantsminda, Stepantsminda, Georgia
  • Public Service Hall in Akhalkalaki, Akhalkalaki, Georgia

The following statistics helped MHD Group achieve 4th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 2
Total Projects 8

3. STIPFOLD

© STIPFOLD

© STIPFOLD

Investing creative power in architecture, design and various imaginative projects. The company’s unique name combines a simplified version of ‘Steep’, and ‘Fold’, conveying the idea of rejecting walls, floors and ceilings as separate entities, but rather continuation of each other, folding into one organism.

Beka Pkhakadze, the founder, studied at Architecture, Design and Urbanism faculty of Georgian Technical University was put to practice at the local government institution for three years. During this period Beka was handling massive projects and was collaborating with international studios and foreign architects. Due to the change of regime, most projects were suspended and he decided to work independently and established his own firm at the age of 25.

Some of STIPFOLD’s most prominent projects include:

  • SLASHBACK, Tskneti, Georgia
  • LENVIX, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • PAPER HOUSE, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • VISSUR, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • VERPON, Tbilisi, Georgia

The following statistics helped STIPFOLD achieve 3rd place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 2
Total Projects 21

2. Architects of Invention

© Architects of Invention

© Architects of Invention

Architects of Invention (AI) is an award winning international partnership practicing contemporary architecture, urbanism, and design led by Nikoloz Japaridze. To accommodate a range of projects throughout the world, AI maintains offices in London and Tbilisi. Since its establishment in 2010 AI has completed 10 buildings in 10 years and produced more than 100 projects and collaborations.

The practice has good international experience contributing to project in Chile, Switzerland, Germany, Canary Islands, Seychelles, India, Russia, China, Czech Republic, France, UK and Georgia. AI has successfully collaborated with many international clients and consultants. Its core consultants’ teams are established in the UK as well as in Georgia.

Some of Architects of Invention’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Architects of Invention achieve 2nd place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects 6
Total Projects 17

1. Khmaladze Architects

© NakaniMamasakhlisi Photo Lab

© NakaniMamasakhlisi Photo Lab

Khmaladze Architects is an architecture firm located in Tbilisi, Georgia. Their work is mostly centered around hospitality architecture.

Some of Khmaladze Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • Coffee Production Plant – Meama, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Meama Collect – Beach, Batumi, Georgia
  • Fuel Station + McDonalds, Sherif Khimshiashvili St, Batumi, Georgia
  • Seaside Resort, Georgia
  • Top image: Corner Pines, Tbilisi, Georgia

The following statistics helped Khmaladze Architects achieve 1st place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

A+Awards Winner 8
Featured Projects 5
Total Projects 5

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

Workspace in the Gensler LA office with a banquette around a black circular table
CategoriesInterior Design

Gensler redesigns its own LA office to have “warmth and comfort” of home

By Zarkon Group,

The team at global architecture firm Gensler’s Los Angeles office has redesigned a floor of its workspace with a hospitality approach, as a pilot for the remaining spaces.

The Gensler LA team’s renovated its space to give it more of the “warmth and comfort” that its staff became used to during its time working from home.

Workspace in the Gensler LA office with a banquette around a black circular tableWorkspace in the Gensler LA office with a banquette around a black circular table
The team at Gensler LA redesigned the third floor of their offices to better suit their current workplace needs

The studio’s return to the office post-pandemic came seven years into a 15-year lease of its spaces in Downtown Los Angeles, the firm had converted from an empty bank building in 2011 then expanded to two floors in an adjacent, connected structure.

With a growing workforce and a desire to rethink the layout, functionality and appearance of the office, a group of the studio’s “next generation” of designers and strategists led an effort to redesign the interiors of the third floor.

Open shelving with colourful books displayed Open shelving with colourful books displayed
The pilot project incorporates several products from Gensler collaborations, including open shelving and communal tables

“The look and feel of our space, though contemporary, lacked the warmth and comfort of the hospitality touches we integrate for our clients’ workspaces and that we had become accustomed to while working from home,” Gensler senior strategist Sarah Koos told Dezeen.

“Coupled with the changing nature of hybrid work, the space necessitated a transformation that would support a renewed sense of a work-lifestyle.”

Communal table in wood-lined roomCommunal table in wood-lined room
A warm aesthetic that captures the essence of Los Angeles was chosen for the interiors

The group spent a year listening and learning from surveys, workshops and feedback sessions in which each of the 500-plus employees was able to have a say about their future work environment.

Many team members had been highly mobile even before hybrid working became popular, so the previous dedicated desk system seemed redundant.

“Working from home for two years effectively rewired peoples’ expectations of their work environments, a sterile, single-use corporate office no longer spoke to the warmth, variety, and comfort they were afforded in their own homes,” said Koos.

Lounge area with comfy seating, plants and a guitarLounge area with comfy seating, plants and a guitar
Plenty of lounge areas with comfy seating were created for employees to use

They therefore set about redesigning the offices with a focus on flexibility, communal work areas and presentation spaces.

“Rather than confine our designers to a desk or a conference room, we developed a kit-of-parts inclusive of typical sit-stand workstations, communal tables, focus pods, booths, material layout islands, and more,” said Gensler senior designer Kirk Bairian.

“Gensler is built on a studio system which is critical to our design culture, and each studio was able to use this kit-of-parts to customise their space to reflect the specific ways in which they work.”

Workspace with glass meeting room, privacy booth and shelving for pin-upsWorkspace with glass meeting room, privacy booth and shelving for pin-ups
The team devised a “kit of parts” for the different studios to customise their own workspaces

A warm, hospitality-forward aesthetic that mirrors the “informal but elevated, casual but curated” essence of Los Angeles was chosen.

Materials including maple plywood, blackened metal and subtle textiles provide a backdrop for more colourful additions in the form of ever-changing pin-up display boards, styled shelving, artwork by local students and books from local creative businesses.

Lounge-style furniture and jewel-toned textiles are placed in the co-working areas to evoke a hotel lobby or coffee shop vibe.

Several of Gensler’s furniture and fixture collaborations were also introduced, among them the communal tables and open shelcves from a product line created with Fantoni and custom focus pods from a partnership with Tangram’s Studio Other.

Conference room behind glass wallConference room behind glass wall
Traditional conference rooms are available alongside more flexible spaces for group work

Since the project completed in 2023, the data from badges suggest that employee office attendance has increased by 35 per cent for the studios located in the renovated pilot space, according to the firm.

“Studios in the new space shared that they felt that working in the renovated space made them more productive, enabled more effective collaboration, and overall, greatly improved their in-office experience,” the team added.

Wood-lined workspace with private booths and open Zoom areasWood-lined workspace with private booths and open Zoom areas
Maple plywood and blackened metal were among the materials chosen to give the space more of a hospitality feel

Gensler is the world’s largest architecture firm and has locations 53 locations globally. Its European head offices in Wapping, London, was longlisted in the business building category of Dezeen Awards 2020.

In 2022, co-CEO Andy Cohen told Dezeen in an exclusive interview that architecture should abandon “top-down” management to improve working conditions.

Reference

Accessible environmental info for non-specialists
CategoriesSustainable News

Accessible environmental info for non-specialists

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: Space technology analysts expect the growing concern over the effects of climate change to increase demand for satellite-based Earth Observation data and to hasten the development of additional innovations within the industry. More satellites will create more data, and there is already a lot available. So much, in fact, that it can be difficult for organisations to know what to focus on and how to make the best use of the information.

Hoping to tackle that information overload is Netherlands-based Meteory. Meteory combines public and private satellite data with its proprietary machine learning, AI, and data science processes to provide organisations with clear, usable information on which to base their sustainability decisions. No matter the industry, Meteory can help businesses understand what is happening on the ground and how conditions are changing.

Meteory’s platform combines 40 years of historical data with real-time datasets and uses machine learning to analyse terabytes of data in seconds. Organisations customise their dashboard to track Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals and see how different decisions will affect them. With Meteory’s platform, companies don’t have to build their own analysis systems, but can still access essential insights and indicators in real time.

Meteory brings together a range of data types, including radar, ocean, atmospheric gases, soil information, public forest monitoring, carbon dioxide emissions, and more. As well as the platform for real-time tracking and analysis, the company offers automated summary reports that users can set to receive at any frequency.

Satellites are helping organisations in a number of fields better care for the land, with innovations in Springwise’s library including a platform for preventing forest fires and a new method for hyperlocal rain forecasts.

Written By: Keely Khoury

Reference

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque in indonesia with lombok-style wickerwork
CategoriesArchitecture

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque with lombok-style wickerwork

By Zarkon Group,

Andyrahman Architect’s Al-Muttaqin Grand Mosque Cakranegara

 

The Al-Muttaqin Grand Mosque in Cakranegara, Mataram, Indonesia, originally founded in 1973, underwent renovations in 1992 and 2007. After the collapse of the old mosque in a 2019 earthquake, Andyrahman Architect designed a new mosque in 2020 with a responsive approach to nature, users, and space requirements. The design balances contemporary elements with local traditions, culture, and Islamic law, adapting to the times.

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque in indonesia with lombok-style wickerwork
all images courtesy of Andyrahman Architect

 

 

mosque fuses contemporary design with religion and tradition

 

The roof design combines the tajug roof of Bayan Beleq mosque with the Sasak rice barn roof, presenting a fusion of religion and tradition. The black, lightweight roof enhances safety during earthquakes. The mosque’s openings resemble a Sasak granary, symbolizing the balance between prayer and worship practices. Traditional ornamental details, such as Lombok-style wickerwork, use synthetic rattan, maintaining local character. The mosque, designed by Andyrahman Architect, integrates Sasak weaving motifs into wall ornaments, creating a recognizable local identity.

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque in indonesia with lombok-style wickerwork
Al-Muttaqin Grand Mosque in Cakranegara, Mataram, Indonesia, underwent renovation by Andyrahman Architect

 

 

mosque’s open and inclusive space serves as community hub

 

The spatial concept prioritizes ample space, positioning the mosque closer to the west side for optimal accommodation during peak times. This strategic placement ensures an efficiently utilized courtyard without overflow. Qibla direction guides design lines, aiding in determining the direction during large gatherings. The square main space accommodates 1750 worshipers, with additional spaces totaling over 2800. The mosque promotes natural ventilation and serves as a social hub, attracting the community with its open and inclusive design.

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque in indonesia with lombok-style wickerwork
the mosque’s design prioritizes a responsive approach to nature, users, and space requirements

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque in indonesia with lombok-style wickerwork
sasak granary-shaped openings symbolize the delicate equilibrium between prayer and worship practices

andyrahman architect ornaments mosque in indonesia with lombok-style wickerwork
traditional Lombok-style wickerwork incorporates synthetic rattan, preserving local character

Reference

Wood panelled walls and display cases
CategoriesInterior Design

“Subtle luxury” defines Rachel Boston jewellery store

By Zarkon Group,

Interior design studio Hollie Bowden Interiors has created fine jeweller Rachel Boston’s flagship store and showroom in London.

Located in Shoreditch’s Redchurch Street, the store is split into four main areas – the retail space, private appointment area, workshop and office space for the jeweller’s team of 12.

Wood panelled walls and display casesWood panelled walls and display cases
The space blends a neutral palette of glass, steel and sycamore wood veneer

The store aims to blend a neutral material palette of glass and steel with sycamore wood veneer and velvet mohair upholstery.

“Jewellery stores can be read as quite uninviting and exclusive,” Hollie Bowden Interiors founder Bowden told Dezeen. “I wanted to create the opposite experience to that, something that felt open and un-intimidating, yet special and elevated.”

Cantilever display case Cantilever display case
Bowden and designer EJR Barnes have created bespoke displays from mirror polished steel

Placing the jewellery centre stage was a key objective for Rachel Boston when briefing Bowden’s team.

“Even though our pieces are striking, they are ultimately small objects by nature, so I didn’t want a huge amount of fussy furniture or bold colours to detract from the experience of customers viewing our pieces,” Rachel Boston told Dezeen.

In response to the brief, Hollie Bowden created a compact 19-square-metre front retail space “inspired by the concept of a jewellery box that draws your attention into the small, intricate objects within”.

jewellery retail space jewellery retail space
The store on Redchurch street is split into four main areas

Sycamore veneer wall-cladding, limestone flooring and lining the display cases with ivory silk combine to create the jewellery-box effect, “emphasising this feeling of being cocooned in the space” Bowden told Dezeen.

“I wanted to focus on materials that have a quiet beauty about them, that you have to get up close to really appreciate,” she continued.

Steel window displaySteel window display
Bowden employs a refined approach to materials for this retail project in London

This process of refinement has been a hallmark of Bowden’s style since establishing her London-based studio in 2013.

“Not over-designing projects with too many materials is very important – to give objects the space to sing,” she explained. “I’m always trying to reduce and simplify.”

Jewellery is displayed in floating window vitrines and a cantilever display desk, designed in collaboration with London-based artist and designer, EJR Barnes.

Made from mirror polished steel, these bespoke displays introduce a “vertiginous moment that makes the space feel unique,” according to Bowden.

For these cabinets, Bowden and Barnes drew on the utilitarian design language of archives which “display, protect, and organise what they contain in quite a neutral way”.

A shop front A shop front
Hollie Bowden’s retail space in Shoreditch has been designed in reference to jewellery boxes

Rather than using big ornamental gestures more common in jewellery retail, Bowden says this approach “represents a unique and original way of presenting jewellery”.

“The idea of ‘subtle luxury’ feels like a great counterpoint to retail design at the moment that can feel like you’re in a casino,” she added.

The frames of the cases are simple and uninterrupted, maximising the display of the jewellery and encouraging guests to roam freely around any area.

Red chairRed chair
The red cab chair placed at the front of the store is by Mario Bellini

A Mario Bellini Cab Chair in a deep wine red, placed at the front of the store, works along the lines of the unexpected-red-theory interior trend, featured in our recent lookbook.

Through a stainless steel-lined open doorway, the rear space is curtained off for private appointments. This larger 42-square-metre showroom in the back has a more relaxed and intimate feel that mirrors the art-deco style of Boston’s jewellery.

Four chairs around a carpeted floor Four chairs around a carpeted floor
The rear of the store is reserved for private appointments

Upon entering the rear space, a brown short-pile carpet and bespoke sofa upholstered in Claremont mohair signals the transition from the storefront.

“We wanted to create two distinct spaces, independent of each other yet with a subtle link that reflects Rachel’s jewellery,” Bowden said.

“While the spaces contrast, the continuations of steel and limestone allow for a striking continuity throughout.”

A brown mohair velvet sofa A brown mohair velvet sofa
The rear showroom features a bespoke sofa upholstered in Claremont mohair

Other projects by Hollie Bowden Interiors featured on Dezeen include a pared-back jewellery showroom and a London office space inspired by the sultry lighting of gentlemen’s clubs.

The photography is by Richard Round-Turner.

Reference

Could VR content boost empathy for the environment?
CategoriesSustainable News

Could VR content boost empathy for the environment?

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: It’s vital that young people learn about global warming and the importance of living more sustainably. Without climate change literacy, many won’t be able to adapt to the economic and environmental impacts of climate change. This is especially the case in Africa, where countries are disproportionately vulnerable to climate change. Now, one startup is changing how young people learn about the dangers of climate change and plastic pollution through virtual reality (VR). 

Ukwenza VR is a startup based in Kenya that offers educational VR content for classrooms and extracurricular learning. The startup’s VR experience transports students to realistic digital simulations of environments affected by plastic pollution and climate change. Students witness virtual representations of polluted water bodies, littered streets, and devastated habitats in Kenya and beyond, showing them the impact of plastic waste on marine life, land animals, and human health through the VR headsets.  

The startup works with schools and educators to create and deliver content that meets learning standards that serve the community. Ukwenza mainly focuses on schools from low-income areas that cannot access such digital opportunities – where communities are most affected by plastic pollution and accumulated sewage and garbage. 

Leveraging corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes and other funders, Ukwenza can deliver VR experiences to public schools that would otherwise be unable to afford them. In private schools, by contrast, Ukwenza works with parents who pay a subscription for students to access the content.

As the world becomes increasingly environmentally conscious, it’s essential that young people grow up with an awareness of why and how they can also make a difference. Springwise has spotted many innovators finding ways to educate young people, including by using Minecraft and fairytales to better explain sustainability issues.

Written By: Anam Alam

Reference

Beijing city library by Snohetta
CategoriesArchitecture

Dezeen Debate features Snøhetta library with a “feeling of extravagance”

By Zarkon Group,
Beijing city library by Snohetta

The latest edition of our Dezeen Debate newsletter features Beijing City Library in China by Snøhetta. Subscribe to Dezeen Debate now.

The Beijing City Library in China, designed by Norwegian studio Snøhetta, features a glass-lined structure punctuated by towering tree-like columns and rooms disguised as hills.

Commenters analysed the structure closely, with one characterising it as having a “feeling of extravagance” while also criticising it by suggesting: “It can only mean massive expenditure.”

Another observer perceived it as “borrowing heavily” from Frank Lloyd Wright’s SC Johnson Wax HQ.

Space Perspective completes capsule for balloon-powered “journey to the edge of space”

Other stories in this week’s newsletter that fired up the comments section included space tourism company Space Perspective’s test capsule for its Neptune spacecraft, a high-protein food by scientists from South Korea’s Yonsei University and Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza’s extension of his 1999 Serralves Museum project in Porto.

Dezeen Debate

Dezeen Debate is sent every Thursday and features a selection of the best reader comments and most talked-about stories. Read the latest edition of Dezeen Debate or subscribe here.

You can also subscribe to our other newsletters; Dezeen Agenda is sent every Tuesday containing a selection of the most important news highlights from the week, Dezeen Daily is our daily bulletin that contains every story published in the preceding 24 hours and Dezeen In Depth is sent on the last Friday of every month and delves deeper into the major stories shaping architecture and design.

Reference

Exterior of Masná 130 house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORA
CategoriesInterior Design

ORA creates modern home in 500-year-old Czech Renaissance building

By Zarkon Group,

Czech architecture studio ORA has renovated a Renaissance-era house in the town of Český Krumlov, preserving original features like its carved wooden beams while adding free-standing contemporary furniture.

Local entrepreneurs Petra Hanáková and Radek Techlovský purchased the dilapidated house in the town centre in 2016 and asked ORA to oversee a modernisation process that retains the interior’s historical character.

Exterior of Masná 130 house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORAExterior of Masná 130 house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORA
Masná 130 is a renovated home by ORA in Český Krumlov

The 500-year-old building, now called Masná 130, had been neglected for decades and was not even connected to the town’s sewage system. It also had flood-damaged foundations and a roof in need of major repairs.

Despite its issues, the owners saw potential in the property and spent two years transforming its ground floor into a cafe that has become a gathering place for the local community.

Entrance of Masná 130 houseEntrance of Masná 130 house
The architects added bespoke furniture made from dark-stained birch plywood

The latest phase of the project involved renovating the first-floor living spaces. The original intention was to redevelop them as rental flats, but Hanáková and Techlovský eventually decided to create a single apartment that they could occupy themselves.

ORA’s design for the apartment reveals aspects of the building’s past while introducing modern features that reflect the owners’ love for contemporary design and minimalist style.

Living room of house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORALiving room of house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORA
The building’s original carved wooden ceiling beams are left exposed

“We did not want to create a historical ‘museum’ interior, nor a design showroom,” said Hanáková and Techlovský. “We wanted to organically connect the historical and contemporary layers.”

The architects began by removing an existing partition wall in the main living space and reinstating the original open layout. This created a large salon that reveals the full splendour of the Renaissance-era wooden ceiling.

Kitchen of Masná 130 houseKitchen of Masná 130 house
The kitchen was designed as a standalone unit that is raised above the floor

The restoration process also uncovered original stone walls that were painted a deep crimson colour. Together with the wooden rafters, this informed a material palette that complements these dark, saturated tones and creates a cosy atmosphere.

The apartment’s bedroom features a small remnant of the original ceiling fresco. The rest of the room is painted a cream colour to lend the space a calm and relaxing feel.

In the bathroom, ORA chose to combine cool colours with white tiles and large mirrors to brighten the space. Playful details such as the irregularly shaped bathtub, curved sinks and tiles with rounded edges help to soften the overall aesthetic.

Throughout the apartment, the architects added bespoke freestanding furniture that performs the necessary functions without disturbing or concealing the existing heritage features.

View to bedroom of house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORAView to bedroom of house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORA
The bed is dominated by an oversized headboard

“The interior design is approached as a collage of motifs,” said ORA. “The furniture is inserted into the historical space in the form of separate objects that create distance from the historical elements.”

The kitchen, for example, was designed as a standalone unit that is raised above the floor and stops well short of the ceiling. Its sink, hob and countertop occupy a central void, with all other functions concealed within the cabinetry.

Bedroom of Masná 130 houseBedroom of Masná 130 house
It takes pride of place in the centre of the bedroom

The bed features an oversized headboard that connects with a wardrobe on its reverse side. It is placed in the centre of the bedroom and is angled to provide the best view of the window and the original painted ceiling.

Custom-made furniture is built from dark-stained birch plywood with contrasting brass legs that help to enhance the sense of separation from the existing spaces.

Lighting is either freestanding or integrated into furniture such as the kitchen unit and bed. An overhead light above the dining table is mounted on a bracket so it does not touch the historical ceiling.

Bathroom of house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORABathroom of house in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic by ORA
ORA combined cool colours with white tiles in the bathroom

ORA, which stands for Original Regional Architecture, was founded in 2014 by Jan Veisser, Jan Hora and Barbora Hora. The studio is based in the small town of Znojmo, with previous projects including the conversion of a 16th-century home in Mikulov to create a modern guesthouse.

Other recent attempts at revamping the historical residences of the Czech Republic include a 1920s villa in Prague that was renovated by No Architects and a 100-year-old apartment in Karlovy Vary, where Plus One Architects uncovered the building’s original paintwork.

The photography is by BoysPlayNice.

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