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Ten homes with walk-in wardrobes that store clothes in interesting ways
CategoriesInterior Design

Ten homes with walk-in wardrobes that store clothes in interesting ways

By Zarkon Group,

In this lookbook, we pick out 10 home interiors that feature walk-in closets designed to provide bedroom storage that is both practical and appealing.

Walk-in wardrobes create a bespoke storage solution that is hard to achieve with standard furniture.

Often they are considered a luxurious feature used to declutter the bedroom in large houses, but as the 10 examples below demonstrate, they can also be a sleek solution for utilising dead space in smaller homes.

This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks showcasing well-organised bedrooms, interiors with built-in furniture and homes that make a feature of their corridors.

Marine house extension designed by David Barr Architects
Photo is by Jack Lovel

Marine, Australia, by David Barr Architects

This walk-through wardrobe sits in a corridor between a bathroom and the master bedroom of a cottage near Perth.

Birch-plywood storage units and concrete flooring define the wardrobe, a continuation of the materials used throughout the light and airy extension designed by David Barr architects.

Find out more about Marine ›

Walk-in wardrobe
Photo is by Roehner + Ryan

O-asis, USA, by The Ranch Mine

Warm-toned wood shelving and cabinetry was combined with terrazzo flooring in this enormous walk-in closet that sets out clothes like a boutique fashion store.

It flows right off from the bathroom of a large house in Arizona designed for a musician by architecture studio The Ranch Mine.

Find out more about O-asis ›

Bedroom of Botaniczna Apartment by Agnieszka Owsiany Studio
Photo is by Pion Studio

Botaniczna Apartment, Poland, by Agnieszka Owsiany Studio

A linen-curtain screen tidily obscures the walk-in wardrobe in this Poznań apartment designed by Agnieszka Owsiany Studio.

The elegant and delicate aesthetic of the curtains contributes to the calming atmosphere the studio sought to create, as well as helping to offset the adjacent burl-wood vanity desk that acts as the bedroom’s feature element.

Find out more about Botaniczna Apartment ›

Apartment by Studio Noju
Photo is by Studio Noju

Casa Triana, Spain, by Studio Noju

Studio Noju used a floor-to-ceiling curtain to create a walk-in wardrobe in the main bedroom of this renovated apartment in Seville.

The studio used a bright yellow paint for the wardrobe that contrasts with the monochrome curtain and surrounding walls, adding to the sense of theatre and surprise when the drape is drawn back.

Find out more about Casa Triana ›

Apartment in Estrela by Aurora Arquitectos
Photo by Do Mal o Menos

Apartment in Estrela, Portugal, by Aurora Arquitectos

A small, triangular room in this old Lisbon apartment was converted into a walk-in closet as part of a revamp by Aurora Arquitectos.

White curtains cover a storage unit that runs along the longest wall of the wardrobe, which is provided with natural light by glazing above an arched doorway.

Find out more about Apartment in Estrela ›

House H in Taiwan designed by KC Design Studio
Photo is by Hey! Cheese

House H, Taiwan, by KC Design Studio

This basement apartment in Taipei was given a moody colour palette and raw textures in an overhaul by KC Design Studio.

That theme was continued in the walk-in wardrobe off the master bedroom, which acts as a dressing area between an en-suite bathroom and a private lounge.

Find out more about House H ›

Hubert by Septembre Architecture
Photo is by David Foessel

Hubert, France, by Septembre

Embedded within a modestly sized Paris apartment renovated by architecture studio Septembre, this walk-in closet is an example of clever utilisation of space.

A wall behind the bed forms a partial division, allowing for generous clothing storage while retaining the room’s overall proportions.

Find out more about Hubert ›

The Magic Box Apartment Raúl Sánchez Architects
Photo is by José Hevia

The Magic Box Apartment, Spain, by Raúl Sánchez Architects

This apartment near Barcelona, designed by Raúl Sánchez Architects, takes the concept of a walk-in wardrobe to a new level.

Aptly called The Magic Box Apartment, it features a shiny brass wardrobe that divides two bedrooms instead of a traditional partition wall, which can be passed through like a secret passageway.

Find out more about The Magic Box Apartment ›

RL House Renovation by Diego López Fuster Arquitectura
Photo is by Pablo Pacheco

RL House Renovation, Spain, by Diego López Fuster Arquitectura

Diego López Fuster Arquitectura opted to give the bedroom of this Alicante a generous walk-in wardrobe that acts as a full dressing area.

Rather than being hidden or tucked away, its wide proportions help to make the relatively long and narrow bedroom feel more spacious.

Find out more about RL House Renovation ›

Casp21 by Bonba Studio
Photo is by José Hevia

Casp21, Spain, by Bonba Studio

Green-panelled wood boxing encloses a sizeable walk-in wardrobe in the corner of this bedroom in a converted office building in Barcelona.

Through this intervention, Bonba Studio maximised the feeling of brightness and spaciousness in the room, as well as ensuring that the full impact of the traditional vaulted ceiling was maintained.

Find out more about Casp21 ›

This is the latest in our series of lookbooks providing curated visual inspiration from Dezeen’s image archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks showcasing well-organised bedrooms, interiors with built-in furniture and homes that make a feature of their corridors.

Reference

5 Powerful Ways Lighting Can Transform Simple Architectural Spaces
CategoriesArchitecture

5 Powerful Ways Lighting Can Transform Simple Architectural Spaces

By Zarkon Group,

The A+Product Awards is open for entries, with a Main Entry Deadline of June 24th. Get started on your submission today! 

Good lighting can make or break a well-designed interior project. In addition to optimizing the availability of natural light in a space, selecting the right light fixtures can augment the furniture inside and cement a tone for the entire space. Bright white lights can make writing or chopping easier whereas warm yellow lights can make dinners an elevated experience. Similarly, colored lights can liven up parties and candle-lit wall sconces can be perfect for cozy nights.

Layering a variety of lights can add depth to any space and make it more comfortable. This technique also helps utilize different parts of a space in different ways. The scale and size of light fittings can also help fill up spaces or make them look more spacious.

Natural Light

Apartment in Amsterdam by MAMM DESIGN, Amsterdam, The Netherlands | Image by Takumi Ota Photography

For years, designers have been trying to maximize the amount of natural light within a space. Having an abundance of sunlight pouring into a space can help make it feel bright, airy and comfortable (this is especially due to its soothing tone and physical warmth). Another check in favor of designing for natural light: it cuts down on power use.

Exposure to the sun’s rays also helps regulate the body’s sleep cycles as well as overall health. In addition to windows, skylights have become increasingly popular to draw in light in interior spaces. Some interior designers also use cleverly arranged reflective surfaces throughout the space to help the light bounce off of surfaces and make the space feel brighter. Translucent partitions or latticed screens in homes can also help draw light to interior spaces that might otherwise be blocked by solid walls.

Ambient Light

Lenvix by STIPFOLD

Peaches Rooftop Cocktail Bar by Pierce Widera, Melbourne, Australia

This is perhaps the most important selection of lights for a space. Ambient light refers to the fixtures that are used to brighten the entire space, more often than not in a uniform manner. The tone used for ambient light can also determine the overall mood of the space. Offices tend to use white light to help carry out tasks efficiently under the brightness. On the other hand, warmer lighting schemes are gaining popularity in restaurants and homes for the warm and cozy atmosphere they can create.

Ambient lighting can be designed in a variety of ways. It can range from ceiling lights, track lights, wall lights and chandeliers to recessed circular and strip lights. Using dimmable fittings for ambient light can also help adjust brightness levels for different activities. Now, there are a variety of options and illumination systems that are not only functional but also quirky and trendy.

In Lenvix, STIPFOLD composed a hexagonal pattern on the ceiling using slimmer light fixtures. This not only brightens the space but also adds an additional pattern to the space and helps demarcate the seating area. Alternatively, the Peaches Rooftop Cocktail Bar features a canopy of pink-toned spherical pendant lights hanging from the ceiling to mimic peaches.

Task Lighting

Coil Collection Naturals by LightArt

Casa Cosmos by S-AR, Oaxaca, Mexico

This could be considered a secondary source of lighting. Task lighting is referred to lighting fixtures with a very specific function. Desk lamps, bedside lights, wardrobe lights, strip lights under kitchen cabinets and even staircase guiders can come under this category. Task lighting can help carve out secluded nooks and can also help easy navigation during the night. It is ideal to isolate the switches for task lights from the overall ambient light connection so that they can be used only when needed.

Decorative additions like the A+Award-winning Coil Collection Naturals can make a great bedside companion for late-night reading and can also be used as an additional light source near desks or in hallways. In Casa Cosmos, S-AR used a focused light fixture to brighten the concrete-backed seating area. Unlike the above example, these lights can also help separate the multiple functions within a space without the use of partitions.

Accent Lights

Sticks by Vibia

Hong Kong Garden / Theatre House by Bean Buro, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong

The aim of accent lights is to draw attention to a specific object or an element, even when the general lights are on. These can be direct or indirect sources of light that highlight artwork, wall textures, level differences, recesses, false ceilings or other architectural elements in a space. This also adds more dimension and drama to the space. Types of accent lights range from small spotlights to wall-grazing linear lights.

The A+Award Winning Sticks is a modular design that can be used in a variety of ways to either focus on specific objects or illuminate specific areas in spaces. In the image above, the light is used to mimic the space of the doorway to accent not only the passage but also the wall texture. It also becomes an additional spotlight for the sides of a small stepped seating area. Accent lights also help highlight doors and partitions in Hong Kong Garden / Theatre House.

Decorative and Mood Lighting

Lo-Fi by SYNECDOCHE, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Media Plaza by Liong Lie Architects | Image by Christiaan de Bruijne

This category is often more to set a mood as opposed to being functional; it includes candle-based décor, string lights, lanterns, wall sconces and colored lights. These different techniques of illumination act as secondary light sources as they are not bright enough to help carry out everyday tasks without straining your eyes. There are extremely popular in restaurants and nightclubs as they help create an air of mystery and build tension without compromising the functionality of the furniture.

Neon blue and pink lights make up the interior of Lo-Fi in Michigan. The vibrancy of the lights energizes the otherwise dim space and also provides a great backdrop for photos, creating additional interest. In Media Plaza, a strip of blue wraps around the back wall of a projection room that is covered in foils that can change color when needed.

The A+Product Awards is open for entries, with a Main Entry Deadline of June 24th. Get started on your submission today! 

Reference

6 Simple Ways To Soundproof a Space
CategoriesArchitecture

6 Simple Ways To Soundproof a Space

By Zarkon Group,

The A+Product Awards is open for entries, with a Main Entry Deadline of June 24th. Get started on your submission today! 

In today’s competitive real estate market, large square footage is hard to come by and highly-priced. Today, smaller square footage is the norm and when living in close quarters, dwellers often pay more attention to soundproofing their tight space. The soundproofing process is rather sophisticated and there are countless products on the market to choose from. From Feltouch’s Make Up Divider panels that soften acoustics, Acoufelt’s SoftenUp Ceiling System that is aesthetically pronounced and softens interior acoustics to TURF Design’s Scanlines acoustic wall panels that double as decoration and noise-control, soundproofing options are abundant. What is more, all pay close attention to the four soundproofing elements: decoupling (vibration), absorption (air), mass (weight) and damping.

However, seeking professional help and investing in high-end products is a large investment and oftentimes off-the-table for those renting or on a budget. Thankfully, there are many inexpensive DIY solutions to help muffle sound, decrease vibration and ultimately, create a more enjoyable living environment. Listed below are six measures that will help keep out noise, keep in sound and improve a room’s overall acoustics.

Make Up Divider acoustic panels by Feltouch

SoftenUp Ceiling System by Acoufelt

1. Rearrange the Furniture and Add Mass to Walls

Rearranging furniture is a simple and inexpensive tool to improve the room’s sound quality. Placing heavy furniture, such as bookcases and large shelves, against walls can help block out unwanted sound. When a substantial mass is placed against a wall, it resists vibrations coming from surrounding rooms and thus reduces sound. This technique won’t completely eliminate sound but will certainly reduce bothersome noise.

Bookshelf House by Andrea Mosca Creative Studio, Paris, France, 2016

2. Choose Soft Furnishings

Sound is transmitted through vibrations and the more vibrations, the louder the noise. Hard objects vibrate more than soft objects, so when furnishing a noisy space, opting for pieces with soft materials can help limit sound vibration and reverberation. For example, tablecloths, cushions and upholstered pieces can help reduce vibration in a room, hence decreasing noise. The reduction of noise isn’t enormous, but neither is the effort it takes to add a few soft furnishings. Therefore, this technique is great for busy people who want to use what they have around the house and keep with their budget.

The Hedonist by Nuno Pimenta, Mannheim, Germany, 2014

3. Curtains and Blinds

Curtains are also a great way to block sound before it gets the chance to vibrate off hard surfaces. Whether it be a curtain or blind, covering apertures can help reduce the echo and reverb in a room. Equally, there are many soundproofing curtains on the market that work to trap internal sound rather than block out exterior noise. Therefore, soundproofing curtains are great if the goal is to create privacy.

4. Rugs, Carpets and Soundproofing Mats

Similarly to adding wall mass, it’s important to address the floor. Rugs and carpets are an easy solution to eliminating the sound of footsteps and pronounced movement. Using thick rugs or even layering carpets can be very effective in muffling noise. Moreover, adding a rug underlay can increase thickness and help absorb echoes. Soundproofing mats are also something to consider depending on the function of the room.

HOME^DOME by idoia otegui_i!arquitectura, Madrid, Spain, 2019

5. Decorate Your Space with Wall Art

Another simple and aesthetically pleasing way to tackle noise is to decorate the space! Think canvas paintings and tapestries. This is a cost-effective and effortless way to muffle sound while simultaneously decorating a room. This technique won’t block out sound but can help reduce the echo in a room.

The Coven by Studio BV, Saint Paul, MN, United States, 2020

6. Tape Your Windows and Sweep Your Doors

One of the most challenging spots to soundproof is windows. If there’s a gap between the window and window frame (often caused by a worn-out seal), noise will travel regardless if the window is shut. One way to easily tackle this issue is to use weatherstripping tape. All it takes is replacing the old weatherstripping tape with the new one. This will help insulate openings and keep out exterior sound. Additionally, adding a door sweep to the bottom of a door will seal the opening and help keep out sound.

These six soundproofing solutions are ideal for those renting, residing in non-permanent housing situations or on a tight budget. They are easy to install, inexpensive and will aid in blocking out the undesired noise of a loud neighbor or roommate. All it takes is a little time, patience and creativity to soundproof a space!

The A+Product Awards is open for entries, with a Main Entry Deadline of June 24th. Get started on your submission today! 

Reference

7 Ways to Recreate the Timeless Charm of Regency Interiors
CategoriesArchitecture

7 Ways to Recreate the Timeless Charm of Regency Interiors

By Zarkon Group,

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work through Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletter.    

Period dramas are all in rage, both in written fiction and cinematic productions. Fans of Emma and Downtown Abbey are now indulging in the Netflix adaption of Julia Quinn’s popular Bridgerton novels. In addition to causing sleepless nights of binge-watching, the series has also prompted several Pinterest searches for Regency-era aesthetics and décor.

This dramatic aesthetic developed in the 19th Century, under George IV’s rule as Prince Regent. The style of design is synonymous with grandeur and flamboyance. It was influenced by Greek, Egyptian, Gothic and Chinese architecture, celebrating art in all forms. Muted hues, decorated wall panels, ornamental moldings, plus seating, noteworthy chandeliers, fluted columns, brass inlays, rich woods and large mirrors are just a few components that combine to make up this style.

Adapting the Regency style for today’s homes is not straightforward; it can be approached by adding individual elements that reflect the era or by recreating an entire setup that exudes regal European charm. Some of the extravagant elements mentioned above can be statement pieces in minimal interiors — like an imposing chandelier in an otherwise plain hallway. On the flip side, if used subtly, they can all come together to create a cozy and inviting home that displays hints of history while being rooted in today. Channeling this style also presents a great opportunity to upcycle vintage furniture and old decor pieces, or to try some DIY experiments on plain IKEA furniture. Below are a few examples of how these elements have been used in spaces across the world.

Children’s Room Design by Ami Austin Interior Design, Memphis, Tennessee | Image by Chip Pankey

Powdery blues, soft pinks, pistachio greens and luxurious cream hues were a staple in this era. This pastel palette can be layered in any space by using patterned wallpapers, painted furniture and matching upholstery. The combination of patterns prevents the space from becoming monotonous and creates interest in an otherwise muted palette.

This technique is clearly exhibited in the children’s room design by Ami Austin Interior Design. The same tone of powder blue is used in the wall, curtains, window seating and a desk chair. The white baseboards and mirrored vanity make it more current and add some brightness.

Beautiful living room in palace style by Mirt

This palatial setting might be hard to replicate in contemporary interiors as is but there are some elements that could be introduced in modern homes to give them a historic touch. Decorating the walls with patterned wallpapers and then strengthening that design language with ornate mirrors and gold-framed paintings can be one way to spruce up dining or living areas. This can also be taken a step further by breaking up the walls with molded panels to divide functions in a large space without using walls.

Ladbroke Grove Townhouse by BWArchitects, London, United Kingdom

Gold and pearlescent tones have long been indicators of wealth and luxury. And since the Regency style was all about celebrating opulence, furniture and fixtures with such finishes were not uncommon. Adding golden or cream edges to highlight the lines of tables or desks, or even using gold in lights or bathrooms fittings is an easy way to incorporate this trend. This soft aqua cabinet with beige panel outlines in a townhouse designed by BWArchitects is a great example of vintage-style furniture in a modern setting.

Pattern House by ALEKSA studio, London, United Kingdom

Gilded fixtures can also be paired with white marble tabletops in salons or countertops in bathrooms. Due to its versatility, marble can also be used on floors or be carved to create intricate sculptures and more. In Pattern House, ALESKA studio has paired marble slabs with metallic gold or brass sinks and taps to elevate the simple layout. Golden doorknobs and light fixtures further help build the aesthetic.

Living room design in light tones by Mirt

Another characteristic design element from this era was a sitting room with plush sofas and ornate chaises. As evidenced in this living room design, multiple seating options, all with curved lines and decorative embellishments, add an air of comfort and luxury to any living space. These can be upholstered in velvet or delicately patterned fabrics. When paired with equally embellished furniture, they can effortlessly transport users back to the 1800s.

Jerusalem Penthouse by Annette Frommer-Interior Design, Jerusalem, Israel

We often underestimate how dramatically curtains change the look of a space. Pleated drapes with thick fabrics or sophisticated prints that go all the way from the ceiling to the floor can give the appearance of bigger windows and higher ceilings. They can also be accompanied by decorative ties or layered with sheer curtains to make the setup more luxurious. As showcased above, curtains can be a good way to add depth, color and texture to living spaces.

Chateau in height by Estudio Jorge Felli, Buenos Aires, Argentina

No Regency setup would be complete without a grand chandelier. Large suspended illuminators with dazzling crystals and romantic swirls celebrate the artistic expression of the period. These can also work with minimal spaces with sleek lines or more themes setups. In a bedroom in the Chateau in Height, the large chandelier is accompanied by matching drapes and beddings, marble and wooden floors and a dark floral wallpaper to create a balanced room.

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work through Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletter.    

Reference

8 Contemporary Ways to Resurrect Art Deco Glamor
CategoriesArchitecture

8 Contemporary Ways to Resurrect Art Deco Glamor

By Zarkon Group,

Browse the Architizer Jobs Board and apply for architecture and design positions at some of the world’s best firms. Click here to sign up for our Jobs Newsletter.

Art Deco, which is short for Arts Décoratifs, emerged as a design style in France just before World War I and predated the more minimal and functional Mid Century design. Characterized by bold sleek forms, geometric patterns, reflective finishes, metallic and inlaid wood embellishments as well as luxurious materials, the aesthetic later gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, where it was showcased across architecture, interiors, fashion, automobiles and more.

The style married high-quality opulence and dramatic simplicity while also paying homage to technological advancements and mass manufacturing. In addition to Cubism and Viennese Succession, Art Deco also draws inspiration from cultures across India, China, Egypt and Mesopotamia. For many in North America, it is epitomized by icons like the Chrysler and Empire State buildings, completed when America was on the brink of the Great Depression. When America emerged from the crisis, the world had changed and so had aesthetic preferences. Today, we’re exploring how 21st century architects and designers are reviving Art Deco sensibilities and adapting them for the contemporary era.

San George by Framework Studio, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chevrons and starbursts were some of the most defining elements of the Art Deco style. These patterns can be used in walls, furniture and even floors. Statement zig-zag floors in a high-gloss black and white pattern create a neutral base to place colorful furniture while also adding a stylistic layer to the design. In the San George restaurant, the bold floors come together with bright turquoise and rich emerald tones to create a retro aesthetic without it being too overwhelming.

Restroom in Art Deco Style by Futuris Architects, Yerevan, Armenia

Gold is an easy way to bring in the glamour of the roaring 20s. Instead of large metallic furniture pieces, the color can be introduced in a subtle way by using it in the edges or outlines of décor and furniture pieces, molding, lighting or handles. In this restroom, the studio added oblong mirrors with gilded frames and then reinforced this design language with gold-finished lights and matching accessories. The dark tones of the walls and furniture also help the metal stand out more.

Jazz Billet by Envisage, Gurugram, India

Starburst, solar forms, and stepped patterns are other characteristic elements from this era. These geometric forms were often used in wallpapers, moldings, mirrors and even building exteriors. An Art Deco-style apartment in India showcases these patterns in the form of wall paneling. A dramatic living room wall arrangement is achieved by staggering curved and flat panels of different lengths with recessed light fixtures.

Death & Company Los Angeles by AAmp Studio, Los Angeles, California

Jewel tones have long been associated with wealth and grandeur. Deep shades of red, green, navy or purple can either act as a backdrop or be used in furniture as accents. In Death & Company Los Angeles, these rich hues create a moody atmosphere that is part nostalgic but also contemporary. These colors are juxtaposed with dark wooden panels, light natural stone, metallic accents and floors with geometric tiles.

Beau Cloud Mansion / The Cascade by Bean Buro, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong

Taking inspiration from the automobiles and ocean liners in that era, curvilinear forms and clean lines also became a part of the style in the 1930s. The Bean Cloud Mansion / The Cascade does the same in a modern way. Corners, wall edges and furniture profiles have all been given smooth edges or curved profiles. This is even replicated in cabinet doors and wall dividers. The curved lines are also incorporated at a smaller scale by adding fluting to the dining table.

Santomate by Daniela Bucio Sistos // Taller de Arquitectura y Diseño, Morelia, Mexico

Art Deco is the epitome of making a statement, and lighting can be a big part of this. Illuminators with sleek or geometric forms can easily spruce up simple spaces. This is exhibited in the design of Santome — a restaurant and bar in Morelia Mexico. Globe lights attached to oblong profiles are suspended in a row over the bar. The setup also comprises recessed lighting in the same warm hue to create a halo effect.

Project 1874: Photorealistic 3D Rendering Restaurant by Yantram Architectural Design Studio, Rio Rancho, New Mexico

In addition to floors or walls, patterns can also be introduced on the ceiling. In a conceptual design for a restaurant in New Mexico, the firm used a striped pattern in green and ivory to decorate the ceiling. The Art Deco theme is further reinforced with the addition of geometric starburst lights.

5550 Wilshire by TCA Architects, Los Angeles, California

The style manifests in different forms for the exteriors as well. The most iconic Art Deco buildings across the world often mimic lines and forms of old ocean liners. Curved edges, flat roofs, bands of windows, circular openings, horizontal bands, ship railings and ziggurat-shaped decorations are just a few examples. The 5550 Wilshire is a building that encapsulates this style masterfully. The horizontal mass of the structure is further broken up with vertical divisions to create the illusion of height.

Browse the Architizer Jobs Board and apply for architecture and design positions at some of the world’s best firms. Click here to sign up for our Jobs Newsletter.

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