Furnish Burnish

Minimalistic House: Diogene

Strega — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:33:53 +0000

A strive towards minimalism haunts the mind of almost any architect. As this world is evolving but not expanding people need more space, yet the tendency towards minimalism prevails. Italian architect Renzo Piano has nurtured the idea of creating a perfect minimalistic house since his student years and only now his ideas are starting to be realized with a help of his students, friends and sponsors. Although still in a phase of development, Piano has developed an eco-friendly house concept that he has entitled 'Diogene'.

Diogene Minimalistic Dwelling

Minimalistic Diogene Via Vitra Although Diogene might appear as a garden shed or some shelter, it is actually as stated by Piano – ‘a voluntary place of retreat’. The Diogene is very mobile, being only about 2.5 meters in measurements it weighs about 1.2 tons so it can be transported by a large truck. The Diogene is completely autonomous: although it is has a wooden structure, it also has aluminum paneling with installed solar cells and a rainwater tank for water provision - so it can supply its own electricity and water; there are also biological toilet and natural ventilation. The living space is very limited, only 2x2 meters, however, it has a living area, a kitchen and a bathroom with shower. Renzo Piano has started the project about ten years ago out of his own free will, along with his students and allies. Later on, however, he has realized that he needed some financial resources to continue his work. The Project was suspended, however, in 2010 he decided to revive it after meeting with his friend, Rolf Fehlbaum. Currently the Diogene project is being realized with a help of an Swiss Furniture maker, Vitra and at present time it is being displayed publicly for more social support. Although the concept is not unique, the implementation of the project is rather curious. Diogene offers everything needed for a contemporary dwelling: it is sustainable, light, self-efficient, small and mobile. Although it can't be called a luxurious residence, this project is heading for the future, where the land resource would be so scarce that we would be fighting for any housing. Do you like the idea? [gallery]

Water-Wise Gardening

Strega — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:50:20 +0000

The current trend for sustainable products pushes us to be environmentally conscious and preserve the resources, especially water. Moreover, water as any supply can cost a fortune, especially in a climate prone to droughts. You might be surprised to find out that during summers almost half of the water is spent on landscaping and that might be a problem if you are on a tight budget. But there is still an option of creating a wonderful garden that uses less water resources. Here you will find the water-wise gardening ideas and tips on creating one.

Water-Wise Tips For Gardens

Astrid Gaiser Garden

Soil Preparation

One of the first essential things in creating a water-wise garden is to prepare the soil by adding organic matter. This can be compost manure or chopped up leaves as these ingredients will improve the water preserving capacity of the soil.

Water The Roots & Use Free Water

When you are conscious about the water resources, you should also know that it could be delivered right to the roots. Drip irrigation and soaker hoses make sure that around 90% of water is delivered for the plants, while sprinkles are only about 50% efficient. The area between the plants is dry, therefore, the weeds are also deprived from water so the weed problem is also solved by this type of watering. Another option of watering is to use rainwater, so when it rains collect the water from the roof.

Plant Consideration

Well eventually you might want to reconsider the type of plants that you have in your garden. If you have a large lawn, it should be reduced to a minimum or perhaps opt for groundcovers instead. Choose the plants that are drought-tolerant and preferably natives to the area of your garden’s location. This generally proves to be consuming less resources. [gallery]

Sea Interior Of Spanish Summerhouse

Strega — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 11:05:40 +0000

It is summer already in every part of the world, yet some of us can't go to vacation yet, but the vacation can come to our homes. Dressing up the house by sea-inspired decor pieces and equipping the outdoors with the charming summer accessories will definitely change the mood of the entire interior. This example of a Spanish summerhouse illustrates this point exactly.

Sea-Inspired Summerhouse in Spain

Charming Sea-Inspired Decor In Summerhouse This house is just an embodiment of summer decor. Everything in this residence, from its interior to its exterior oozes sea memories and relaxation. First of all, despite the contemporary box-like architecture built by Cadiz Johanson, the designer Carmen Brujó managed to make the interior of the residence eclectic and even somewhat shabby chic. The main living room for example is mostly white with distinguishable DIY table and futuristic sleek white chairs. The casual turquoise highlights only make the interior appear fresh and brisk. Did you notice charming tabletop centerpiece collected from a nearby outdoor area? Another dining table, also quite massive timber construction is equipped with amazing elegant chairs with bright turquoise upholstery. These chairs complement the brutal appearance of the table, making the area stand out. The kitchen, however, reveals its original modernistic approach having an angular kitchen counter. The only things that are reminiscent of the summer décor are the timber stools with yellow seating. The entryway is a classy summerhouse space. Equipped with the low-rise benches, bright striped rug and simple rack, this charming entryway has everything needed for a trip to or from the sea. Now, the epitome of the summer chic house is the bedroom. It has two rustic dressers by each side of the bed, and it also has blue bench by the bed. These furnishing elements highlight the house's rustic appeal revealing a personal approach to decor. Now, at last, the house has expansive outdoor area with a gorgeous swimming pool. The angular architecture of the house fits in perfectly into the lush green surrounding area. So, don’t you think this house is perfect for summer relaxation? [gallery]

Concrete & Metal Tiles By Decotal

Strega — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 13:19:49 +0000

Have you ever wondered what would the combination of metal and concrete in a furnishing object look like? Adi Fainer, creative mind behind the Decotal company has envisioned the project of combining both of these materials to produce unique and beautiful tiles for the interior. Did we catch your attention? Because if we didn’t there is much more to that creative design.

Unique Metal & Concrete Tiles

Amazing Tiles By Decotal Well, technology and interior design doesn't stop amazing us, right? Israel-based and Italia-schooled Adi Fainer has presented his amazing creative tiles that he made from a combination of metal and concrete. First of all, just look at these beautiful tiles, they truly look like pieces of art, don’t they? Secondly, Fainer has laser cut metal to create whimsical patterns that were later on cast in the engineered concrete. But wait, there is more to it. Some metal plating pieces include chrome-nickel, anodized aluminum and titanum, while others are made from Silver and 24K Gold. That is quite impressive, don't you think? The trick of the collection is the unique blend of materials where the cold shiny metal is contrasted against warm porous concrete. Of course such beautiful indoor feature is handmade from special engineered polymer concrete that requires no maintenance and can come in a wide variety of hues. The metal engravings are also limitless in design, as practically any pattern can be replicated and custom made. At present there are mostly geometric prints, however, there also some limited florals also available. The tiles can be pre-ordered and made to fit practically any space. The tiles as you see are a find for those who like to have a designer furnished interior. Pretty impressive, don't you think? Would you like to have the beautiful tiles from Decotal? [gallery]

Basic Tool Kit

Strega — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:44:41 +0000

Thinking of moving out to live on your own or buying a new house? Then you should know that along with all the furnishings and accessories there needs to be a basic tool kit that is essential for the house maintenance, so here is all you need to know about having your own tool kit for successful homekeeping.

Tips On Basic Took Kit

Tools For Home Maintenance

Hammers & Levers

A hammer is needed in any household, you just can't disagree with that, right? Well, among the many various types of hammers available in a market, if you are a new homeowner try going for a sixteen ounce claw hammer. As for levers, crow bars and mallet are quite handy for taking things apart or putting something into its place.

Pliers

In general pliers are needed to increase the gripping pressure and leverage. As with any house maintenance tool, pliers come in many variations but especially handy in the small home repair works are water pump pliers and needle nose. Water pump pliers are good at working with square and hexagonal objects, while needle nose pliers can reach into nooks and cracks.

Wrenches

Well, wrenches are essential to have in any household because everything seems to be made from hexagonal nuts and balls. It is best to use fixed-size wrenches because they are less clumsy to work with. A set of matching sockets is also quite a needful house tool.

Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are one of the most popular tools to use in minor repairing works. Choose the variety with interchangeable tip, because it is not only good for various repairing works, but also keeps down the clutter.

Cutting Tools

Cutting tools include saws, utility knives and many other varieties, but most commonly used ones are the old-fashioned handsaws and hacksaw. The first one is perfect for cutting wood, the latter is used for cutting metal and plastic. The utility knife is good for cutting linoleum, carpet and construction materials.

Impressive Outdoors Of Wall House

Strega — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:07:54 +0000

A family house is something to be cherished and what can host thousands of different memories from childhood. It is a place that an individual likes to visit, however, in some cases when this individual still lives with his or her parents - the sole desire is to move out and be somewhere else. The Wall house designed by Singapore-based architectural company Farm has a unique architectural story to tell and an amazing outdoor area to get inspired by.

Wall House Outdoor Inspiration

Lush Outdoor Area Of Wall House Well of course it is not a terrible story, but rather a story of a compromise when an adult is living with his parents in harmony. The secret to that is the wall that divides the house and creates two distinct blocks. Both of the parts blend in perfectly into the surrounding landscape, they are matching in terms of internal and external design - yet they provide comfort for two different worlds. Both blocks are located on massive property of the family and the separation of the house was an initial request from them. Of course the wall doesn't mean that there are no common areas. There is a single-storey block dedicated entirely for social recreational activities of the family. Another thing that visually and spatially connects the two blocks is an expansive outdoor area, which as we can see is quite impressive on its own. The huge central yard is shaped carefully by the granite walls with few minimalistic plants, particularly willows. The willows roots are located on the first floor but are allowed to be growing into the second floor as well. This is only the area near the front entry, but the rest of the property is entirely surrounded by green. Another feature of this outdoor area is the massive pond right in front of the house. In general, the landscape of the area is streamlined, appearing sort of enveloped by the grandiose lush lawn and surrounding trees. The inspiration for this landscape design is coming from the Chinese garden philosophy with distinct shapes and islands of different vision that are overlapping at some point. Aren’t you impressed with the amazing outdoor area of the Wall House? [gallery]

Poetic Solar Lamp By J.M.Massaud

Strega — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:36:46 +0000

Contemporary decor accessories can be quite puzzling, don't you think? Jean Marie Massaud, Paris-based designer has created a unique poetic outdoor lighting feature - Solar that is a floor and table lamp, and apparently a good conversation starter.

Solar Lamp By Massaud

Solar Lamp Used Outdoors What appears like a circular fluorescent table is in fact a floor lamp, however, as described by the designer - it is not simply a lamp, it is a new concept that is rather poetic. The creation of this object resulted from a personal approach to space, as mentioned by the designer, therefore, we see that poetic Solar Lamp has a deep concept that the designer tried to convey to the world through this creation. The hemispherical form of the lamp is referring to the celestial vault, and the still surface of the top looks like an eclipse.

A contemporary hearth to gather around, which irradiates a warm ambient light, a diffused glow, both poetic and relaxing, marked by a line that mirrors the terrestrial curve, in sync with nature.

Solar lamp is meant to create a conversation between nature and culture, by referring to the changes of day and night. The source of light is enclosed into transparent hemisphere and sort of appears to be pushed downwards so that the light is a diffused luminous glow. The lamp is available in two versions, one for indoor use the other for the outdoor use. The indoor version slightly differs from the outdoor one, as its resting surface is slightly sunken with edges being above the surface. The outdoor version features a completely flat surface so that rain drops can slide off the top and bring no harm to the light. While the hemisphere material is the same waterproof polyethylene for both versions the finishes for the top surfaces are different - one being glossy white or dark wood, while the outdoor Solar lamp features a textured material. Solar lamp can be used in various positions, and it can actually be tilted by 15°. Of course the quality of lighting changes and creates different kind of mood. The Solar lights can be used in clusters or can create beautiful pathways. [gallery]

Stylish Silver Lake House By Bestor Architects

Strega — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 12:09:15 +0000

Usually stylish interior is meant to be impersonal and very contemporary, as seen in many various examples seen in our previous posts. However, this incredible apartment proves that stylish residence can be funky and cheerful. Bestor Architects has recently redecorated the kitchen and dining areas of the Silver Lake house, an LA-based residence with some surprising twists.

Silver Lake Renovation By Bestor Architects

Green Cabinets Of Silver Lake Kitchen Silver Lake house is not simply a contemporary residence with incredibly stylish interior, but it also has a personal feature that distinguishes it from the rest. The color palette present in the interior is very down to earth, with few surprising hues popping out in strategic spaces, such as kitchen and dining area that were altered by the Bestor Architects. The company has enjoyed working with the house and included some of the Californian chic into the interior. The highlight of the house is the amazing green cabinets of the kitchen with beautiful contrasting copper furnishing lamps overhead. Another thing that highlights the funky interior is the exposed brick wall - truly unexpected feature! Stylish Furnishings Of Silver Lake House Overall, the furnishings in the apartment can be called rather retro-styled. Just look at these awesome retro sofas and cute ornamental side table in the living room. There are also surprising contrasts present in the rest of the house, such as amazing white bathroom with contrasting scarlet towels. In another bathroom there is also a surprising twist in the design - amazing patterned walls contrasting against the fluorescent white bathtub. The interior of the house is very warm and even rustic. The charming exposed beams of the living room, timber floors and large sliding doors - everything makes it quite homey and comfy. In the kitchen apart from the green cabinets we see cleverly defined bay window that was incorporated into the overall design of the area. Bestor Architects is known to be one of the best design companies in the U.S. What do you think of the house and its kitchen? [gallery]

A-Framed VB4 House Extension

Strega — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 16:08:18 +0000

Thinking of renovating your exterior and adding some drama to the façade? Take a look at this incredible a-framed house extension that was undertaken by Belgium-based DMVA Architecten in the suburbs of Brecht, Germany. The former vacation house has been renovated into a fully functional residence with an extravagantly highlighted roof. Let's see what has been improved in this project.

Extending A-Framed House

Exterior Of A-Framed House & Its Extension Originally a simple A-framed construction that is hiding somewhere in the forest of Brecht, it has now acquired a new look with a help of Belgium-based architecture company. The family needed extra space, so the architect team has added up about 50 square meters to the existing construction. The peculiar shape of the original house had to be preserved because there were certain restrictions regarding the building of new objects in this area. Construction of an extension was a bit of a challenge. The extension of the house follows the same structural trapezoid frames, echoing its original design. Although quite dramatic on the outside, the house is full of light due to full glazing and purely white interior design. Inside the extension there is a living room and a library. To those who are concerned about privacy, inside the extension there is a sliding partitioning wall that can shut off the dwellers from the outside world. However, that doesn't seem necessary as the location of the house is hidden by the trees. The outdoors of the house also has a very important role in forming the complete image of the residence. Apart from lush forest greenery, there is a small pond. Despite appearing rustic in the outdoors, the interior of the house is very modern and even futuristic with flowing lines and lots of fluorescent whites. The house doesn't really need more colors, as the exterior compensates most of it. [gallery]

Intricate Vases By Christian Haas

Strega — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:57:16 +0000

Do you like amazing and intricate glassware pieces that don't look like furnishing accessories, but rather like pieces of art? Erlangen-born Paris-based designer Christian Haas has extensive experience of creating conceptual furnishing objects that are made from glass. His newest creation, ‘Focus the Unknown’ portrays incredibly fragile glassware pieces with attention to details, presenting marvelous art.

Incredible Vases By Haas

Focus The Unknown Vases Set Focus The Unknown - is the newest collection of glass vases presented by a very creative designer. The idea of creating something like this was haunting Christopher Haas for ages, but only recently he was able to create something as perfect as that. The newest glassware collection is made in collaboration with Bavarian Crystal Manufacturer Theresienthal and presents a glass-based dialogue between designers, glass blowers, grinders, and engravers. As mentioned by Haas himself:

When the work with Theresienthal has begun the claim was to develop their own distinctive signature. Max Schnurr, the owner of Theresienthal, gave me carte blanche, so I was so free (to create). I was thinking of beginning a collection with a wow effect and mood for discovery.

The collection includes four marvelous pieces in different sizes, colors and engraved patterns. That is not their first collaboration, as in 2006 Haas has already created the decanter collection for this manufacturer. His later works for Theresienthal are quite impressive on their own, but the depth of each piece is just incredible. There are Roland Remix, the first collaborative work for Theresienthal; Still Water Runs Deep – a set of vases also with incredible sea-inspired engravings; Planet Earth – a collection of glass pitchers with various engravings; a Matter of Perspective - a collection of three pieces with a distinct outer space theme, No Sweet Without Sweat – Bee-inspired collection, Wisdom is a Good Companion – portraying a large owl in the cage. You can see these collection below, so take your time to admire them. [gallery]