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Solar cycle paths: a bright idea for power generation
CategoriesSustainable News

Solar cycle paths: a bright idea for power generation

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: In its first meeting, the UK’s Solar Taskforce highlighted the “untapped potential of commercial sites for solar.” What many commercial sites have in common is their provision of walkways and carparks for public use. Those areas, fitted into the space that is available, could be valuable producers of renewable energy, as demonstrated by an innovation created by French infrastructure construction company the Colas Group and INES, the French National Institute of Solar Energy. 

The organisations created a subsidiary, Wattway, to market a solar energy system that can be walked, biked, and driven on. Called the Wattway Pack, the turnkey system provides solar panels, an electrical storage cabinet, and a connection to a device needing power. 

The photovoltaic road surface requires nothing more than glue to attach it to paved areas, and the surface of the panels is treated with a solution to provide the same grip as a regular road. The Wattway Pack is modular and scalable, with PV panels available in packs of 3, 6, 9, and 12, and produces power ranging from 375 to 1,500 watts depending on the number of panels in use.   

In December, a new Wattway project was announced, in collaboration with Dutch construction company Royal BAM Group. There are over 35,000 kilometres of cycle paths across the Netherlands. The two companies hope to take advantage of that, and commissioned two cycle lanes, each 1,000 metres squared, across the North Brabant and North Holland provinces in the Netherlands. The goal is for the paths to generate at least 160 megawatt-hours of electricity for the Dutch grid in the first year, and the project will be overseen for the next five years. 

From solar-powered public transport vehicles to off-grid solar systems for disaster relief, Springwise’s library highlights a range of ways in which innovators are scaling down the size of renewable energy systems in order to scale up overall use and electricity production.

Written By: Keely Khoury

Reference

Front elevation view of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller Architects
CategoriesArchitecture

Concrete grid defines Svendborg International Maritime Academy

By Zarkon Group,

Danish studios EFFEKT and CF Møller Architects have completed the Svendborg International Maritime Academy in Denmark, using an exposed concrete frame to echo its industrial surrounds.

Overlooking the harbour in the North Quay of the former port city Svendborg, the 12,500-square-metre centre unites several previously separate departments of Svendborg International Maritime Academy (SIMAC), providing combined study spaces for 1,000 students.

Front elevation view of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller ArchitectsFront elevation view of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller Architects
EFFEKT and CF Møller Architects have created a building for Svendborg International Maritime Academy

EFFEKT and CF Møller Architects designed a “resilient grid” for the building formed of prefabricated concrete elements, which nods to the surrounding architecture and is divided with glass partitions to create teaching spaces that can be easily modified or adapted in future.

“We set out with the desire to create an extremely raw and transparent grid structure, contextually adapted to its industrious setting while capable of staging the school’s workshop-based content,” explained CF Møller Architects partner Mads Mandrup.

Facade dusk view of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller ArchitectsFacade dusk view of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller Architects
It is characterised by an exposed concrete grid

“[It is] a scaffolding of spatial possibilities, centred around encouraging young people to encounter and exchange ideas through informal meetings, both within and out towards its surroundings, activating the whole harbour front of Svendborg,” Mandrup added.

SIMAC’s teaching spaces are organised across five storeys around a central 20-metre-high atrium. Lined with balconies, this atrium visually connects each level to a communal seating area on the ground floor.

Internal frame of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller ArchitectsInternal frame of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller Architects
Five storeys of educational facilities surround a 20-metre-high atrium

Double-height spaces house specialist workshops alongside conventional offices and classrooms, with the glass partitions intended to “stimulate communication and informal exchange” between areas, said the studios.

On the roof is a communal terrace for students and staff, providing both internal and external spaces with expansive views out across the harbour framed by the hollow concrete grid.

Taking cues from the raw concrete structure, interior finishes have been kept minimal and unfinished, with exposed ducting and steel balustrades. Social areas are visually softened by wooden details, including an area of tiered seating.

On the building’s exterior, panels of glazing and corrugated metal have been pulled back to express the concrete structure. In each corner, the grid is cut away to create sheltered external areas for the cafe and canteen, which are open to the public.

Stairs and frame of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller ArchitectsStairs and frame of concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller Architects
An area of tiered communal seating is among those with wooden detailing

“You see the same raw, minimalist exposed column-girder structure both from the outside and the inside,” said EFFEKT co-founder Sinus Lynge.

“The space essentially flows through the building’s structure, and the intriguing aspect concerning the concrete elements is that SIMAC’s structure is the architecture,” he added.

Education space in concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller ArchitectsEducation space in concrete maritime academy in Denmark by EFFEKT and CF Moller Architects
Exposed ducting contributes to the raw interior aesthetic

SIMAC is the first project to be completed as part of a wider masterplan for a new district in Svendborg, which is set to transform 5.5 hectares of industrial area with new education, business and residential buildings.

Elsewhere, EFFEKT also recently completed Denmark’s first treetop walkway at the Hamaren Activity Park in Fyresdal and CF Møller Architects created the headquarters for Lego in Billund with a bright yellow atrium.

The photography is by Rasmus Hjortshøj.

Reference

Restaurant interior with a pared-back palette
CategoriesInterior Design

Jialun Xiong creates intricate Sichuanese restaurant in LA

By Zarkon Group,

Subtle nods to traditional Chinese architecture can be found throughout this restaurant in California, designed by LA-based Jialun Xiong.

Sichuan Impression‘s third outpost, located in Alhambra, occupies a 2,000-square-foot (186-square-metre) space that “takes an elegantly pared-down approach to family-style dining”.

Restaurant interior with a pared-back paletteRestaurant interior with a pared-back palette
Jialun Xiong chose a pared-back palette for the Sichuan Impression interiors, creating a relaxed atmosphere

Jialun Xiong took an equally relaxed approach to the interiors, combining warm and soft colours with walnut furniture and metal accents.

“For Sichuan Impression, I chose a muted palette and natural materials to encourage guests to look a little longer and see the intricacies and textures that aren’t so obvious at first glance,” said Xiong.

A free-seating area beside a bar featuring walnut furniture and floating metal cabinetsA free-seating area beside a bar featuring walnut furniture and floating metal cabinets
A free-seating area beside the bar features walnut furniture and floating metal cabinets

The restaurant is roughly divided into four dining areas, each open to one another but defined by the style of seating.

To the left of the entrance is a sequence of partitions that alternate between heavy grey plaster and delicate metal mesh screens supported by antique brass frames.

Plaster partition separating different sections of the restaurantPlaster partition separating different sections of the restaurant
Plaster partitions separate the various sections of the restaurant

Each has a circular opening, which align to provide a continuous view along the minimalist walnut tables and benches that run along the same axis.

One table extends through an opening, accommodating larger parties when needed, and each compartment features an oversized, raw silk cloth light shade suspended above.

Restaurant interior with walls and screens of different heights and thicknessRestaurant interior with walls and screens of different heights and thickness
Walls and screens of different heights and thickness create a hierarchy of spaces

“The custom chandeliers nod to traditional Chinese lanterns and reflect Xiong’s skeletal furniture designs,” said the restaurant team.

In front of the bar is a free-seating space furnished with more wooden tables and chairs, which match the cabinetry against the far wall, while glass-fronted metal cabinets are mounted above.

A pair of chunky plaster-wrapped columns and low partitions separate a collection of booths with leather seats and upholstered cushioned backs on the other side.

The green fabric was chosen to resemble bamboo – a common material used in Sichuanese design.

Two rows of booth seating either side of a walkwayTwo rows of booth seating either side of a walkway
Booth seating is upholstered with a green fabric chosen to evoke bamboo

At the back of the restaurant is the private dining area, which can accommodate 16 guests altogether, or two groups of eight when a sliding partition is closed.

A circular window offers a glimpse into the private space, where the pared-back material palette is continued.

Private dining room with an intimate feelPrivate dining room with an intimate feel
A private dining room at the back has an intimate feel and can be spied through a circular window

“The secluded space is designed to feel like home with its bespoke circular dining table and ambient lighting,” said Xiong. “I believe good design doesn’t always have to be instantly recognisable, it can simply blend in.”

Xiong, who is originally from Chongqing, has also completed the retro-futuristic Chinese restaurant 19 Town close to Downtown LA. The designer recently showed her furniture and lighting pieces as part of the INTRO/LA showcase in November 2023, and at the Alcova exhibition during Art Basel in Miami in December.

Reference

Could basalt 'carpets' help build healthy soils?
CategoriesSustainable News

Could basalt ‘carpets’ help build healthy soils?

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: Farmers around the world are under pressure to maintain steady crop yields while also reducing their carbon footprints. Hoping to tackle the interrelated issues of climate change and food security, startup Carbonaught believes it has developed a solution – using basalt.

Carbonaught uses standard farming machinery to lay down large basalt ‘carpets’ in farming fields. Naturally occurring carbon dioxide and water in the air combine to form a weak acid that breaks down the basalt. This releases essential minerals and forms a nutrient-rich clay that builds new soil layers and aids in plant growth. At the same time, minerals added to the basalt by Carbonaught bind with the CO2 to form new rocks, locking the CO2 away.

The company’s platform enables farmers to generate and monitor their own weathering projects at scale. Carbonaught believes that by 2030, its platform will remove one billion tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually, while restoring degraded soils to enhance global food supply.

The company is still in the early stages, although it has secured several funded carbon removal pilot projects and received pre-seed funding from early-stage investment company Antler Australia. Carbonaught also placed 24th out of over 1,400 global teams that competed in Elon Musk’s 2022 XPrize Carbon Removal Challenge.

A growing number of innovations are aimed at replacing synthetic fertilisers – often derived from petroleum products – with organic alternatives. Springwise has recently spotted the use of seaweed as a bio-stimulant, as well as the creation of bespoke bio-inoculants.

Written By: Lisa Magloff

Reference

© hearthgroup
CategoriesArchitecture

7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines

By Zarkon Group,

The Philippines is a country that has a rich tapestry of architectural culture, spanning from the indigenous Filipino Bahay Kubo houses and the Banaue Rice Terraces to contemporary skylines and eco-resorts. Admittedly, Philippine architecture is caught between the East and the West, with American, Spanish and Japanese colonial occupation rapidly transforming its built environment. Many architects were influenced by the country’s intercultural identity. Most notably, national Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin was known for his distinct style blending the modern and the traditional, crafting masterpieces like the Cultural Center of The Philippines.

During the 1920s, architect Juan Nakpil paved the way for environmentally conscious construction techniques. He utilized bamboo as a locally sourced component for his designs instead of relying on imported materials such as stone and brick. His work was internationally renounced for its authentic Filipino character, introducing an innovative approach to the country’s architecture. Conversely, cities like Makati or Manila have now been transformed into bustling urban centers, filled with high-rise structures incorporating solar framing and rainwater collection systems, thus responding to the challenging tropical climate.

Albeit a geographically small country, The Philippines is architecturally vibrant and diverse. Throughout time, Filipino architects have reveled in the country’s intercultural nature. By creating new “assemblies” between architectural typologies and practices, they are constantly progressing the country’s built environment without sacrificing its cultural heritage.

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 The Philippines 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 2023)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2023)

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 The Philippines architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 7 best architecture firms in The Philippines:

7. hearthgroup

© hearthgroup

© hearthgroup

We offer architectural design services to would-be homeowners, business people and property developers. Together with our engineering and design consultants, we deliver design solutions that are sensitive to clients’ needs, responsive to nature and improve the built environment for the benefit of the community.

Some of hearthgroup’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped hearthgroup achieve 7th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 3

6. Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates

© Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates

© Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates

Since its inception, JYAA has accumulated a few hundred projects of various types, from high rises to luxury residences. The company survived the Asian Financial crisis through fortifying the firm’s interior design services which currently makes up for a sizeable amount of JYAA’s portfolio. JYAA is an efficiently-sized architectural firm that offers comprehensive design services from concept/schematic design to construction coordination/supervision. The company is affiliated with select Technical Consulting Firms to support the offered comprehensive technical services.

Some of Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates achieve 6th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 1

5. DST Design + Build

© DST Design + Build

© DST Design + Build

We are new breed of individuals from the different fields, who are very passionate in the field of architecture, interior design, furniture and landscaping. We strive on modernizing Filipino architecture and interior design and piece all other design elements together in harmony. Moreover the firm remains steadfast on its advocacy to adapt principles and dynamics on building green.

At DST Design Lab we generally work the key concept of creating quality avant-garde architectural + design and workmanship. Our goal are to design and build quality and world renowned projects that will put Filipino architecture in the forefront.

Some of DST Design + Build’s most prominent projects include:

  • “The Tree House” (Multi-Level Residential house), San Mateo, The Philippines
  • “Unfinished Basket” (BOUTIQUE RESORT COMPLEX), San Mateo, The Philippines
  • Modern Nipa Hut (Bahay Kubo) 2-Story ”Family Villa”, San Mateo, The Philippines
  • Modern Nipa Hut (Bahay Kubo) 2 Story Villa ”Honeymooners”, San Mateo, The Philippines
  • Bahay Na Bato Stone and Wood 2-Story Villa, San Mateo, The Philippines

The following statistics helped DST Design + Build achieve 5th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

A+Awards Finalist 1
Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 15

4. DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)

© DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)

© DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)

We create impactful and sensory experience ecosystems that use the power of design to inspire and innovate our everyday. We are a design partner for ambitious clients and bold businesses. DEQA designs through our ideas, objects, places, buildings and communities. We focus on research-driven, human-centric and sustainably focused design.

We integrate planning, architecture, interior design, product design and branding to maximize interdisciplinary cross-pollination in our practice. We design at all scales from the micro to the macro, designing in powers of ten, to create value and innovation. Our process is highly collaborative. We work closely with our clients to understand their visions, values and needs.

Some of DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)’s most prominent projects include:

  • Rizal Eco Center, Rizal, Calabarzon, The Philippines
  • Hyve, Taguig, The Philippines
  • Hyphy’s, Pasig City, The Philippines
  • Contemporary Museum of Art and Design Competition Entry, Taguig, The Philippines
  • Vyne, Taguig, The Philippines

The following statistics helped DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio) achieve 4th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

A+Awards Winner 1
Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 21

3. Jim Caumeron Design

© Jim Caumeron Design

© Jim Caumeron Design

Jim Caumeron Design is a Manila based architectural design firm, centered around residential architecture.

Some of Jim Caumeron Design’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Jim Caumeron Design achieve 3rd place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects 2
Total Projects 2

2. TJSO ARCHITECTS

Arch. T. Jordan Ong graduated B.S. Architecture from the College of Architecture and Fine Arts (Now College of Architecture) at the University of Santo Tomas. He has worked in various reputable architectural firms and has risen among the top key employees on all occasions. He has handled hundreds of residential and high-rise projects during his stay in one of his previous firm, where he worked as department head for construction. But having the drive and passion to pursue his goal, he humbly started his own practice in the summer of 2007 and since has expanded his portfolio, designing various projects ranging from high-end residential projects, townhouses, mid-rise buildings, high rise buildings, restaurants and commercial buildings. He embraced the modern minimalist style, and it shows in all of his works, but has added his own style in the process.

Some of TJSO ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped TJSO ARCHITECTS achieve 2nd place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects 2
Total Projects 7

1. WTA Architecture + Design Studio

© WTA Architecture + Design Studio

© WTA Architecture + Design Studio

Define. Design. Refine. We seek to redefine the role architecture plays in our society and focus on the creation of positive social impact. We create architecture for moments. Moments that matter to you, and the people around you. In WTA Architecture and Design Studio, we create spaces that encourage connection. We believe in social architecture that engages people, breaks down barriers and designs hyperlocal communities. At WTA, we build communities.

Some of WTA Architecture + Design Studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • The Book Stop, Manila, The Philippines
  • El Museo del Prado En Filipinas, Manila, The Philippines
  • The Oriental Legazpi, Legazpi City, The Philippines
  • The Oriental Leyte, Tacloban City, The Philippines
  • New Taipei Museum of Art, Taipei, Taiwan
  • Top image: Journey by the Bay, Concept

The following statistics helped WTA Architecture + Design Studio achieve 1st place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

A+Awards Winner 3
Featured Projects 1
Total Projects 77

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

Kitchen with white oak island and cabinetry, and travertine backsplash
CategoriesInterior Design

Ome Dezin restores 1960s California residence by A Quincy Jones

By Zarkon Group,

US studio Ome Dezin has renovated a large mid-century home in Brentwood, California, using a tonal colour palette and maximising the lush hillside views.

The six-bedroom 12221 Benmore residence was designed and constructed in 1960 by notable local architects A Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmon.

Kitchen with white oak island and cabinetry, and travertine backsplashKitchen with white oak island and cabinetry, and travertine backsplash
Natural materials and neutral colours were chosen throughout the home to highlight the lush views

When Jesse Rudolph and Joelle Kutner of Ome Dezin came to the project, it had undergone a 1990s remodel that had stripped away its character and style.

The team made it their mission to revive the home’s original charm and connection to the outdoors, bringing in natural tones and materials.

White oak and travertine bar areaWhite oak and travertine bar area
White oak and travertine are recurring materials, as seen in the bar area

“We have always been fans of A Quincy Jones and familiar with his work, which is what prompted us to see the home initially,” the duo told Dezeen.

“This one did not disappoint — it had the typical Quincy atrium-like living space centered across from the exterior which includes a 40-foot (12-metre) waterfall.”

Living room with neutral decorLiving room with neutral decor
The main living spaces all flow together and have expansive views onto the garden

Many of the existing fixtures were retained, including the fixed windows and doors, wherever possible.

To keep the focus on the views from the large windows, the interior was designed with “a more muted, streamlined aesthetic”.

Wood dining table with chairs that tuck neatly underneathWood dining table with chairs that tuck neatly underneath
Custom pieces designed for the home include a dining table and chairs created in collaboration with Ben Willett

“We wanted to ensure the intention of Quincy was intact, so we aimed for a bit of brutalism and connection with nature,” said Rudolph and Kutner. “We opted for a limited material and color palette in favour of natural tones.”

The new white oak staircase designed for the three-storey atrium features rectangular forms and has an architectural presence, echoing the shape and style of the building.

Bedroom with a large window overlooking treetopsBedroom with a large window overlooking treetops
Large windows are found in almost every room, so the decor is kept minimal and sparse so as not to draw focus

It sits at the nexus of the living room, dining area, kitchen and bar, which all flow together and enjoy expansive views out the back of the house.

A den adjacent to these open spaces is furnished with a variety of midcentury pieces, in keeping with the building’s history.

Bathroom with stone floor, freestanding tub and corner showerBathroom with stone floor, freestanding tub and corner shower
Dramatically patterned Cipollino stone in the bathroom echoes the grey tones of the rocks outside

Two types of stone were used throughout the home: travertine, which appears in the kitchen, bar area and powder room, and richly patterned Cipollino in the primary bathroom chosen to pick out the colours of the mountains visible through the windows.

In the lower-floor bedrooms and around the fireplace, flagstones and cobblestones were laid to create a grounding quality and to connect the spaces to the rocky landscape outside and pavers around the swimming pool.

Custom pieces designed for the project include the dining table created with furniture designer Ben Willett, which allows all of the chairs to be tucked away neatly underneath.

Two 10-foot-high (three-metre) doors were custom-built for the living space and feature Jean Prouvé-influenced circular window cutouts that allow light to shine through.

Garden featuring a swimming pool and a 40-foot (12-metre) waterfallGarden featuring a swimming pool and a 40-foot (12-metre) waterfall
The garden features a swimming pool and a 40-foot (12-metre) waterfall

“We paid special attention to the lighting in the home, mostly sourcing vintage lights to add charm and character,” the design team said.

“With such a large home, and lots of windows and tall ceilings, warm mood lighting really made the spaces feel intimate and magical, particularly in the evenings.”

Three-storey modernist house seen at duskThree-storey modernist house seen at dusk
The home was designed and constructed in 1960 by A Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmon

Rudolph and Kutner founded Ome Dezin as a design and development studio focused on residential restoration in and around Los Angeles.

California has no shortage of mid-century properties in need of revamping. Other recently completed examples include Studio Schicketanz’s renovation of modernist architect Henry Hill’s former seaside home, and Woods + Dangaran’s overhaul of a residence that once belonged to singer Bing Crosby’s manager.

The photography is by Nils Timm.



Reference

Cleaning products that embrace the refill revolution
CategoriesSustainable News

Cleaning products that embrace the refill revolution

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: As plastic waste continues to proliferate around the globe, an increasing number of campaigners and organisations are moving towards reuse as a solution that will ultimately be more effective than recycling in terms of tackling our waste problem. 

One way single-use plastics can be reduced, is to eliminate the need for them through the implementation of refillable products. In the UAE, sustainable cleaning company Kyma has created a tablet-based refill solution that uses a single squirt bottle for all household cleaning needs. 

Customers buy small boxes of refill tablets and drop one in a bottle of warm tap water when a cleaning solution is needed. Kyma’s cleaning tablets are biodegradable and non-toxic and come in four categories: as well as a bathroom and multi-surface cleaner, Kyma also provides a glass-specific cleaner and disinfectant. 

Designed with a healthy home in mind, the products are not tested on animals and are safe to use around children and pets. The refills come in simple paper boxes, making them easy to stack. Using the refill solution frees up general home storage space as cabinet shelves in bathrooms and kitchens no longer need to hold so many bottles of cleaning solutions. 

The three co-founders use the phrase ‘refillution’ to describe the scale of the solution needed to fix the world’s single-use plastic problem. The company currently ships across the UAE and beyond, and with an initial line of household cleaning products already available online, Kyma is also working to develop additional ranges of lifestyle items.  

Springwise’s library includes a number of innovations using the refill and reuse approach to reducing waste, from a zero-waste household goods subscription service to drinks vending machines that work with customers’ own bottles.

Written By: Keely Khoury

Reference

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
CategoriesArchitecture

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex

By Zarkon Group,

MVRDV and LOLA plan new green district in Düsseldorf

 

MVRDV has collaborated with landscape architects LOLA to conceptualize the Grüne Mitte project in Düsseldorf, prioritizing open communication, negotiation, and compromise in urban development. Initiated by Cube Real Estate, the project aims to introduce nearly 500 new apartments, with 50 percent allocated to social or affordable housing. Additionally, the development incorporates community spaces to enhance the overall well-being of the neighborhood. The proposed site in Flingern-Süd currently hosts an underutilized shopping center, supermarket, and car park complex built just 11 years ago. The neighboring Kiefernstraße, known for squatting since the 1980s and vibrant street art, adds a unique aspect to the community dynamics. To ensure community involvement and support, the team engaged in a participation process, collaborating to align development objectives with the diverse needs of the community. This approach has facilitated the integration of social and affordable housing and the creation of community spaces that contribute positively to the neighborhood.

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
Grüne Mitte in Düsseldorf, all images © MVRDV

 

 

A Sustainable and Community-Informed Design

 

MVRDV (see more here) and LOLA (see more here) conducted a series of workshops to involve residents in the development process. Interviews were held, and brainstorming sessions took place to gather ideas. Through this collaborative process, key requirements emerged, including the importance of retaining the supermarket as a social meeting spot, improving connectivity to neighboring city districts, and incorporating public spaces for an inclusive social environment. Designers presented three outline proposals for residents to discuss, with the Grüne Mitte design, featuring blocks around a central green space, being the most popular choice. The central park-like space within the block reduces paved or built surfaces from 98 percent to 62 percent, serving as a community hub accessible through various passages. This green area features amenities like kiosks, sports facilities, and playgrounds, contributing to increased biodiversity and a pleasant microclimate.

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
the green open space contributes to increasing the biodiversity in the neighborhood 

 

 

To economically support this large green space, a spatial compromise led to the inclusion of an office high-rise on the southwestern corner. Despite not aligning with the city’s high-rise plan, community support prompted special approval. The design team, considering community preferences, presented three proposals for the high-rise. The final 17-story design incorporates stacked blocks, with the lower one aligning with the Grüne Mitte, and the upper block twisted to complement the neighborhood’s features. Sustainability measures include green roofs, photovoltaic panels, cross-laminated timber floors, and an urban mining approach. The building’s façades celebrate diversity, with different treatments for each block, and some walls proposed for street art collaborations with Kiefernstraße residents.

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
the lower block of the 17-story building aligns with Grüne Mitte, while the upper block is twisted to complement the features of the neighborhood

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
different façade treatments for each block celebrate diversity and make the building more inviting

MVRDV plans new green district in düsseldorf with colorful residential complex
green roofs, photovoltaic panels, and cross-laminated timber floors contribute to the project’s sustainability

 

 

project info:

 

name: Grüne Mitte

architects: MVRDV | @mvrdv and LOLA | @lolalandscapearchitects

location: Düsseldorf, Germany

christina petridou I designboom

jan 13, 2024



Reference

Interior of Totême store in London
CategoriesInterior Design

Halleroed references Swedish Grace for Toteme flagship store

By Zarkon Group,

Stockholm studio Halleroed has designed fashion brand Toteme’s flagship store in London, which features a sculpture by artist Carl Milles and a steel sofa by designer Marc Newson.

Halleroed designed the store, located on Mount Street in the upmarket Mayfair area, together with Toteme founders Elin Kling and Karl Lindman. The duo wanted its third flagship to feature nods to the brand’s heritage.

“We like the idea of keeping certain elements that we find in our Swedish heritage,” Lindman told Dezeen at the store’s launch event.

“It can be by using certain vintage pieces, or like in [the brand’s Mercer Street store] in New York, we had a collaboration with Svenskt Tenn,” he added. “It’s about lifting this notion of Scandinavian design or Swedish design.”

Interior of Totême store in LondonInterior of Totême store in London
A metal sofa by Marc Newson is among the sculptural details in the store

Halleroed drew on the space itself when designing the interior, focussing on how the light falls.

“We were inspired by the space itself with beautiful original windows letting the daylight in,” Halleored co-founder Ruxandra Halleroed told Dezeen.

“The upper part of the windows was partly hidden, which was a shame, so we redesigned the ceiling with a half vault towards the front to show the full height of the windows.”

Totême London storeTotême London store
A piece by sculptor Carl Milles sits by the entrance

The design also references the work of Italian architect Carlo Scarpa as well as the Swedish Grace movement.

“We were also inspired by the Swedish Grace period – around 1920-30s – that has an elegant and pure design, something we think works well for Toteme as a brand,” Halleroed co-founder Christian Halleroed told Dezeen.

“Also the work of Carlo Scarpa we find interesting, more as a mindset on how to work with details and textures to create a subtle elegance and luxury.”

Cube inside fashion store in MayfairCube inside fashion store in Mayfair
A black mirrored cube features at the rear of the store

Kling and Lindman wanted to keep the feel of “very posh” Mount Street where the store is located, while also underlining the space’s minimalist feel.

To do so, a lot of effort was put into the colour palette and different textured materials used for the flagship store.

“We worked with an off-white palette in different tones and different textures,” Ruxandra Halleroed said.

“The textures are as important as colour and materials. For walls, we have a glossy, off-white stucco, ceiling in same colour but matte. The floor is in a beige, honed limestone with a so-called Opus pattern.”

Milles sculpture inside Totême storeMilles sculpture inside Totême store
Halleroed chose to redesign the store’s ceiling to reveal its windows

In the middle of the Toteme shop, Halleroed created a stone-clad cube that holds shelves, vitrines and niches filled with artworks.

“The volume in the middle is clad with the same limestone, but in three different textures: honed, bush hammered and spiked texture, combined with oxidised dark brass,” Christian Halleroed said.

The store also features a square black volume in the back made from high-gloss stucco and dark brass.

Beige and white interior of London fashion storeBeige and white interior of London fashion store
The minimalist interior has a beige, white and black colour palette

To contrast the minimalist interior, the store is decorated with multiple artworks, including a sculpture by Milles and Newson’s intricately woven steel Random Pak Twin sofa, which Lindman found online.

“He’s a slave to auction houses,” Kling told Dezeen.

“So he found it and sent it to me and I loved it, and we also have a Marc Newsom piece in every store,” she added. “So we thought, ‘this one’s for the Mount Street store’. At that time we only had the signed contract, nothing else.”

Sign outside Mount Street storeSign outside Mount Street store
The store is located on Mount Street in central London

The two founders and Halleroed decided on the gypsum Milles sculpture for the Toteme store together, with Halleroed designing a custom niche to place it in that is made from black high-gloss stucco to contrast the pale artwork.

Halleroed also added vintage Swedish Grace furniture to the store, including armchairs and a coffee table by furniture designer Otto Schulz, a daybed and a mirror in pewter made for the Stockholm Exhibition 1930.

The studio has designed a number of other store interiors, including a Paris boutique for French brand L/Uniform and an Acne Studios store in Chengdu that aimed to combine the futuristic and primitive.

Reference

Personal care products powered by plants
CategoriesSustainable News

Personal care products powered by plants

By Zarkon Group,

Spotted: Fossil-fuel-based ingredients are widely used in cosmetic products for several reasons. For example, they lock moisture into the skin, provide a protective barrier, and disperse fragrance ingredients. They are also used as fillers and texture enhancers. FineCell is working to eliminate fossil fuels from cosmetics with an entirely bio-based cellulose that can do everything fossil-fuel-derived ingredients can do, and more. The company is a spinout of the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden, where initial research to develop the product was conducted.

FineCell’s CellOx dry cellulose powder is made by turning plant pulp into a biomaterial that can be used both as a powder and as a hydrogel. CellOx is produced by combining natural cellulose with oxalic acid, a natural chemical found in plants like rhubarb.

The new material is completely bio-based, lightweight, and requires 80–90 per cent less energy to manufacture compared to similar cellulose products. CellOx can be easily combined with other ingredients, making it an excellent binding agent for products such as sunscreens, skin creams, and even paints. It’s also transparent, making it suitable for a large number of applications.

The company has recently announced a €1 million seed investment led by Metsä Group. The funding will be used to improve R&D, engage with potential customers, and finalise plans for a demonstration production facility. The company aims to have the design of its demo plant ready for investment decision by the end of 2024 and larger-scale test production underway in 2025, with full commercial production commencing in 2027.

Beauty is a huge industry, and Springwise has spotted a number of innovations aimed at improving the sustainability of cosmetic products. These range from the use of forest by-products as ingredients to a process that uses fermentation to turn food waste into a sustainable palm oil substitute.

Written By: Lisa Magloff

Reference