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Minimalist Shelf With A Built In Dock For iPhones And iPods: aShelf

freshome — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 01:29:28 +0100

We received photos and information about a new furniture piece, especially designed to answer the needs of Hi-Tech enthusiasts. aSHELF by KREAFUNK combines the functionality and design of a shelf, with musics ability to create vibes and mood. aSHELF is excelent for use in kitchens, bedrooms, offices etc. aSHELF is great for use in your everyday life, as well as at parties. The possibilities are limitless.

According to the producers’ description, aShelf has a built in dock for iPhones and iPods, and a line-in/AUX for other media devices. It has a built in 2x20W digital amplifier as well as two 40W full-tone speakers. The soft edges and matte black finish is easy for the eyes, and makes aSHELF by KREAFUNK suitable for any interior style. The shelf measures 31,5×11,8×2,4 inch (80x30x6 cm), and has a carrying capacity of 33 lbs (15 kg). It comes with a wallmount, and a remote control that allows you to browse through your music in iTunes. [Photos and information provided by KREAFUNK]

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10 Vote(s)

Unconventional Use of Imagination and Inspiration: Arms Chair

freshome — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 08:55:22 +0200

Viewed as an object of authority in its early days, the chair was reinvented as an everyday household object. In today’s curious society, the chair has taken on new life in the hands of inspired furniture designers. Thanks to modern technology’s fantastic versatility, chairs and armchairs can be designed and fabricated to express ideas and emotions. The Arms Chair comes from talented designer Oleksandr Shestakovych. “Always ready to welcome you in its embrace“, the chair features tiny hands on each arm. Playing with simple shapes, vivid colours and the name of the piece of furniture, the designer reached a new level of design. The three elements unite to shape an interesting design and significance. This seating unit expresses more than just visual appeal, it questions the objects around us and gives the armchair a new meaning. This particular chair design has soft, round edges that create a feeling of comforting stability. It might be just me, but the Arms Chair can at least make your guests smile and transform the piece into a subject of discussion.

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117 Vote(s)

Fun Game Incentives for Kepping a City Clean

freshome — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 14:50:06 +0200

In case you ever wondered how the residents in your city could become more responsible when it comes to littering (or perhaps how you could stop your kids from throwing various papers around the house), keep on reading. A fun and innovative awareness campaign was implemented for the the city of Lucerne in Switzerland. Here is an excerpt from the article published at Neue Luzerner Zeitung about these unusual game incentives: The action "Lucerne shines" was launched already in 1999. At that time, within three years, two thirds of urban waste was replaced by larger models and intensified cleaning. This was a success but there was still a littering problem-i.e. careless dumping of waste in public places. The city of Lucerne spends 4.5 million francs annually to clean public spaces. This campaign was created to sensitize the general population about this problem. A total of 16 bins in the city of Lucerne were converted to game stations. The campaign slogan is: Lucerne shines, very easily. ” We are really curious if this campaign will give any significant results. All in all, we find it creative and worthy of being implemented in various cities across the world. What do you think of it?

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167 Vote(s)

Interesting Architecture in Portland: The Eyebrow House

freshome — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 09:20:55 +0200

Some residences get their names from certain elements that remind us of things. The Eyebrow House is one of those houses that received a makeover and a new name, perfectly adapted to its appearance. The architects, Portland-based Doon Architecture, took the existing structure and reshaped it into a modern home, resembling the arches of an eyebrow. The firm describes the work done of the house: “Plans called for opening up the rear of the house to the backyard and create vaulted interior bedrooms on the second level by using prefabricated galvanized elliptical arches (commonly used for simple storage structures) in a novel way as dormers. By opening up the rear of the house and cantilevering off it, we wished to integrate the existing site terracing into the house and allow views of the backyard from most points inside. Emphasis is placed on the kitchen/dining area at the expense of the traditional living room.” What resulted from the transformation of the modest 1940s home in the Mount Tabor neighbourhood is a modern residence anchored by metal columns. Below, the last picture shows you the before and after. Enjoy the pictures and let us know if you think that the transformation was successful.

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176 Vote(s)

Family Heaven Within Contemporary Walls: DG House by DOMB Architects

freshome — Thu, 12 May 2011 16:36:34 +0200

Occupying a surface of 660 square meters, the DG House by DOMB Architects is a simple contemporary residence built using materials like painted plaster, grey oak and glass. With a narrow facade and neighbouring a public park on the backside, the residence leaves the impression of a highly modern house with clean design lines. Two asymmetrical boxes connected through open staircases shape the layout of the house. The center of the residence is a double height space that brings the family together in a great and comfortable entertaining area. Double doors lead out to the pool and a long deck crosses the entire length of the house, from the entrance to the backside garden, visually connecting the spaces. Glass walls cleverly located offer a bright atmosphere and allow visual connection between the inside spaces. The private quarters of the house ensure the much needed quiet time for the adults on the ground floor, while the children’s rooms are situated on the first floor, where a private living room and independent bathroom ensure their independency from the rest of the house. The kitchen is connected to the dining room and the outside barbeque, making it easy for the family to enjoy their meals together. Other facilities were built in the basement for comfort, relaxation and entertainment: a screening room, fitness facilities and a studio. Having this much space and so many ways of enjoying family life must be a dream come true.

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130 Vote(s)

Celine Dion’s New $20 Million Home in Florida Has an Aquatic Wonderland

freshome — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 08:47:35 +0200

Celine Dion and her husband Rene Angelil recently had a mansion constructed for their family in Florida. This new project costed the couple $20million (£13.9million) and a lot of neighborhood racket. An aquatic wonderland, this 9,825 square feet home is also located in the proximity of the ocean. Its exact location is on Jupiter Island, where some of the wealthiest stars live. The miniature water park includes two pools, two water slides and a small river with a generated current in order to carry the water around, which makes the total water amount needed for the system to work equal to 500,000 gallons. Apparently the construction of the house brought some serious complains from the community, as the construction of this system led to a drought on the island. The residence houses eight bedrooms, an underground garage, a large wardrobe and a gym. We are looking forward to your impressions on this post.- via Daily mail

the construction site, photo by Alex Boerner

204 Vote(s)

Cool Shelving Addition: Plus One by Matthias Ries

freshome — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 22:05:42 +0200

Here is an interesting and very cool idea for some bookcase extra storage space. "Plus One" comes from Matthias Ries and it has a fresh and youthful feel. This unusual shelving addition is not only functional, but also surprisingly sleek. It can help improve the look of a dull bookcase and it can also emphasize on those books or magazines one considers special. An the same time, it makes them a lot easier to access. "Plus One" could also be used for storing CDs, pencils and so on. This cool shelving extension comes in a walnut or maple finish, which makes it pretty exclusive. There is also a knitted "decorative" element available, in order to connect the addition to the shelves. What's your opinion? Could this item really be useful?

140 Vote(s)

The White/Perrin Ocean House, an Energy Efficient Dream Crib

freshome — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 09:30:13 +0200

The White/Perrin ocean house comes from Dock4 Architecture and it is located in Bull Bay, North Bruny Island, Tasmania. The owners were so fascinated by the site's features such as the beautiful coast landscapes and the secluded beach, that they considered building a home there a must. The steepest part of the area was chosen which means dramatic views of the ocean. Energy efficiency was another factor that the architects considered when building this fantastic residence. Wide windows ensure a large amount of natural light and the timber creates a good house insulation.The wooden exterior matches the environment and creates a complete harmony. A remote location, the freedom of the ocean and a fantastic architecture are this home's most impressive characteristics. -via Arch Daily

93 Vote(s)

Casa en el Bosque: Where Design Meets Nature

freshome — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:47:00 +0200

Located in a fascinating natural environment in Valle de Bravo, Mexico, Casa en el Bosue (or "the House in the Forrest") comes from Parque Humano, an architecture company with a very captivating portfolio. This beautiful home is so perfectly integrated in the surrounding landscape and so elegantly camouflaged that it seems it has always been there. More information on the residence from the architects: "Two pavilions, unequal in size, are set in front of the pool area. The first and biggest one contains the living and dining spaces, kitchen and a working studio. The second one: two bedrooms. Each pavilion was carefully placed on the site, incorporating all the existing trees into the program and facing the most important views.Visitors are received under the protection of a steel enclosure, entering through a small door that leads to the living room, thereby emphasizing the contrast between the closed nature of the entrance and the full openness of the living spaces and the valley itself."

15 Vote(s)

SALC House in Brazil, a Fresh Design Approach

freshome — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 09:39:28 +0200

SALC House belongs to Frederico Zanelato Architects and is located near São Paulo, Brazil, in a beautiful natural environment. The first aspect that draws attention when looking at this home is its contemporary architecture. A giant supported rectangle houses most of the rooms in this unusual residence. Windows from floor to ceiling allow unobstructed views of the exterior. The giant red curtain bring a plus of freshness and vitality to the overall home design. The interior is modern, featuring contemporary decorating ideas and stylish furniture. Below you have some photos of the intriguing looking project and the house plans: upper level, lower floor and section.-via Arch Daily

6 Vote(s)

Creative Modern Extension for a London Residence

freshome — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 11:17:18 +0200

Crawford Partnership is a London based architecture company whose projects include this creative modern residence extension in London. The idea of complementing an existing structure with a new, contemporary-looking one not only solves the problem of extra space but also creates architectural value. This particular addition houses a dining room, an open kitchen, a bedroom and an office. Quite ingenious- who wouldn't want a completely open kitchen towards the inside yard ? The materials used were glass and and a very durable type of building panels. The extension has many windows, creating an indoor open space that manages to communicate with the exterior. Inside there are minimalist arrangements which increase the feeling of space.-via Inhabitat

4 Vote(s)

Incredible Compact House Shaped like an Automobile

freshome — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 19:42:44 +0200

Voglreiter Auto Residence belongs to designer Markus Voglreiter and falls into our category of incredible design. The unusual car-home is located near Salzburg, Austria- unfortunately, although it looks like a house on wheels, it is not mobile. The architect came up with this idea after noticing the potential a 70’s style house had to offer and completely turned it around. It may look small, but this compact house doesn’t lack any of the comfort that comes with a common looking residence. Voglreiter accommodates two generations of families in two separate portions of the “vehicle”. Moreover, the project features sustainable technologies and energy saving systems. We think it would be very interesting to see how the “car” is lined up with all the other homes, creating an enormous contrast.

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6 Vote(s)

A Home with an Ingenious Addition: “Vashon Cabin” in USA

freshome — Fri, 28 May 2010 12:44:20 +0200

This interesting house plan called "Vashon Cabin" belongs to Vandeventer + Carlander Architects and is located in Vashon Island, Washington, USA. The challenge was to turn around the looks and the functionality of an existing one level cabin. Due to serious building restrictions, the architects had to come up with a viable solution that would increase the space of the residence, without changing the cabin's lot coverage. The result: an ingenious addition in the shape of a wooden box, which was "attached" to the main structure. Intriguing enough, the auxiliary project includes a master bedroom, a bathroom and the kitchen. But what we like most about the unusual "box" is the fact that the architects managed to blend it with the "mother" structure by taking an original and clever approach. -via Arch Daily

This interesting home plan belongs to

8 Vote(s)

Modern Mountain Cottage in Quebec, by Blouin Tardif Architecture

freshome — Tue, 11 May 2010 15:34:44 +0200

What an amazing refugee for the ones forced to live their lives in crowded urban environments. This beautiful mountain cottage comes from Canadian team Blouin Tardif Architecture and is located in Quebec, Canada. The surrounded forest makes for some picturesque views and the large, floor to ceiling windows fully take advantage of the privileged landscape. The interior design is clean, simple and suited for a mountain chalet with an open attitude towards contemporary arrangements. It may not give away too much warmth at a first glance, but it’s enough to imagine a cozy fire and folks gathered up for the atmosphere to steam up.-via Trendir

7 Vote(s)

Unusual Hotel Bed in Italy

freshome — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 14:45:57 +0100

When you think of accommodation, you probably imagine a warm bed in a room with some other furniture lying around, a TV, a bathroom and maybe even some rugs on the floor. Today we bring you this unusual item that is bound to shake your vision of a hotel bed. The “Million Donkey Hotel” comes from target="_blank" href="http://www.feld72.at/">Feld 72 and it is located in Prata Sannita, Italy. It was created as a community project which restored the link between two villages by “using” a few constructions that were not being used. This was appreciated as a”an exemplary project, which has secured the continued existence and future of a social group and a village.” The bed in the image below is located completely outside the walls of the building and it has a pretty good view. How do you find it?

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3 Vote(s)

Unusual Split-Level House in Philadelphia

freshome — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:20:20 +0100

I’m sure you’ve all seen at least one negative example of a modern construction built in a historic neighborhood. Not all really manage to fit in, do they? Today we would like to show you a different approach, a project which we consider to be perfectly integrated in its environment. Situated in Philadelphia, the Split-Level House comes from Qb, an architecture studio which also deals with design. The main materials used in order to complete the construction and to give it an inviting look were polished concrete, wood and steel. The contrast between them give the building its unique exterior style.Three-story high, the place also has a roof garden for private gatherings.

4 Vote(s)

Eye-Catching Rug and Matching Slippers

freshome — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 14:56:49 +0100

I think most of you out there are fascinating by unusual ideas when it comes to interior design. And when those ideas become practical, the interest grows. This is the case with Tapistongs, a very cool rug from Lise El Sayed. I particularly like the texture of the material and the color which make this carpet a "must have". Not only is it interesting and fun, but also modern and quite stylish. I can't help wondering how would I "treat" the slippers if I were to own one of these. Because, even though they fit great next to the rug, I know I would be very tempted to wear them all the time, which would make them tear off way faster than the carpet itself. What do you think about this crazy idea?

5 Vote(s)

Amazing Vertical Apartment from CSD Archtecten

freshome — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 18:21:59 +0100

CSD Archtecten brings together the three people that masterminded the project below: Britt Crepain, Stefan Spaens and Joep Debie. In this collaborative formula they managed to create this original four-levels house in the mittle of Antwerp, Belgium. The hardest part in implementing this idea was optimising the space in every room from every level. However, the results, as you can see, are fantastic and the place has everything a normal, "horizontal" apartment has, including a ground floor and a roof terrace. We particularly like the large windows and the modern interior design. If you look closely, there are also some inventive and highly original features in this apartment, such as the hidden room behind the library. Check it out!- via Buzz-Beast

2 Vote(s)

Grenade Christmas Tree Ornaments

freshome — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:07:41 +0100

Are you looking for a cool Christmas tree ornament ? What do you say about these grenades ? These unique ornaments were created to remind us about those in the world who live in conditions where grenades are a part of daily life. These Grenade Christmas Decorations come in a set of six for only £20.00 ($32 US) and each purchase will send a donation to Ctrl.Alt.Shift's anti-global conflict cause. The grenade Christmas tree ornaments would be super cool additions to any tree, or great for just hanging around your house. Finally what is more meaningful Christmas than helping others less fortunate than us? – Via – Technabob

1 Vote(s)

The “Treehouse”, Unusual Architecture Desguised by Nature

freshome — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 12:13:47 +0100

Designed by Hein-Troy Architects, this green house almost seems camouflaged within its environment. Natural landscapes and vegetation surround this place, which makes it a great house for some quality relaxing time. Its unusual shape and colour is what attracted our attention. However, this residence is not just about its exterior design. When you step inside, you will also find original approaches in matters of perspectives, angles and shapes. The furniture was chosen accordingly, sometimes giving the idea of a minimalist interior. This is also why in some rooms there seems to be a rather cold atmosphere, rather than a cosy one. We particularly like the kitchen, with the blackboards as cupboard doors and we find it is an inspiring idea. Would you enjoy living in a place like this?

1 Vote(s)

Innovative G-83 Chair by Guillermo Perez

freshome — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:46:45 +0100

Designed by Guillermo Perez , this innovative chair entitled G-83 is both artistic in character and a unique modern piece of furniture which requires an open mind to how a living space can be used. G-83's atypical use of material, size, and shape was created to be utilized as both an indoor and outdoor piece of furniture. This piece uses extremely sturdy materials throughout its construction. The frame is constructed of ultralight-mdf and layered with a fiberglass and high-end automotive body filler and the finish is achieved by a professional grade ultra-white automotive paint. The seating portions are constructed of a two layer cushion system to reduce compression but keeping a soft contact and wrapped with a black vinyl membrane.

G-83 was formally generated by using three common positions of respite. The first encounters the "lounging" position which allows the user to relax with the ability to use ones lap for a table top. The second being the commonly known "sitting" position which gives the user the freedom to use a secondary apparatus such as a computer, table, desk, etc. The third being the unintuitive position known as "ergonomic" arrangement which inhibits strain on the typically used muscles and can be used for reading or any in-hand type situations. The profiles from each position were then taken, placed and linked in a circular quality to allow for simple rotation of the object. Subsequently, the interconnecting of the profiles created three pivoting points which are then used for the transformation of the piece of furniture. What do you think about this project that Guillermo Perez sent to us ?

1 Vote(s)

Kohara Lodge, a Perfect Holiday Getaway

freshome — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:35:54 +0100

We noticed our readers are found of unusual houses that involve nature, weather they are located in a beautiful natural environment or actually built from sustainable materials. Today's example- Kohara Lodge- comes from Murray Cockburn Partnership and is located within pristine lands in Queenstown, New Zealand. It features 3 bathrooms 4 bedrooms, an open living,-room, a large kitchen and on top of that, an impressive pool, a spa area and a fireplace. The idea behind the project was to create a house that would be as "connected" with nature as possible which is why the company replanted the native trees that the construction was built on. The surrounding sceneries are absolutely spectacular, as windows offer great views of the Shotover River and Coronet Peak. - Via

1 Vote(s)

Stunning Architecture Project in Tirana, Winner of The Urban Ecological Masterplan

freshome — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 20:48:10 +0100

MVRDV was officially named the winner of the Urban Ecological Masterplan due to an imposing project which will be developed in Tirana, Albania. The impressive building complex will be located on the North side of Tirana Lake, on a surface of 20 ha and also the city’s known “green area”. It will be “a new dense urban neighborhood with a park and public facilities, in the south of the Albanian capital”. The amazing shapes of the structure (resembling collapsing domino pieces) will be the basis for plenty of original and creative apartment design, commercial centers and office buildings. Also, walking through this area will probably be quite interesting; there will be no wonder if Albania will even attract a large number of tourists once this project will be implemented. The new neighborhood will be called “Tirana Rocks”- a very suggestive name, if you think about it.- via

1 Vote(s)

A Different Kind Of Christmas Tree : Festive Ornament by Christian Dior

freshome — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:05:18 +0100

Claridge's Christmas tree is one of newest design projects that attracted attention in the luxurious London Claridge's hotel. The story behind this is that Christian Dior's creative director, designer John Galliano was asked to come up with a Christmas decoration that will become this holiday's symbol for the hotel. Now it is possible that people did not expect to see a common Christmas tree in the hallways, but the final result was an absolute surprise. You should also know that this is said to be the first time in the brand's history when Christian Dior is willing to collaborate in order to create Christmas decorations. And for this time we would like to make an experiment: we will refrain from any opinions on the design and let you give us your honest opinion. -via

2 Vote(s)

Energy Conscious House Design by Simon Winstanley Architects

freshome — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 18:10:56 +0100

Adam Winstanley sent us this modern, low energy house design that is located on a spectacular site overlooking the Sea on a steeply sloping, former quarry in South West Scotland. This project (Deepstone ) was designed by Simon Winstanley Architects and has recently received a string of awards : a prestigious Saltire Society Housing Design Award, a Design Commendation from the Glasgow Institute of Architects and a Chartered Institute of Building Commendation Award and the project was also shortlisted in the Roses Design Awards.

The external expression of the house is based on the above strategy. The public first floor is conceived as a glazed pavilion sitting on top of a masonry base, which contains the private accommodation. The pavilion is constructed with a standing seam zinc roof, glazed on the sides with views and panels of durable timber cladding. The masonry base is clad with natural stone matching the exposed rock face of the quarry. The first floor forms the public living accommodation with external terrace facing the sea, the ground floor contains the private bedroom and bathroom facilities and the lower floor contains the garage and main entrance. The base of the quarry is the only flat part of the site and this is used for car access and the entrance to the house.

The house has the following low energy features:

The external walls, floor and roof are insulated to a high standard and air infiltration is minimised.
Triple glazed windows with warm edge spacer bars, thermally broken frames and inert gas filled to achieve a whole window u-value of 0.7W/m2K.
Heat pump using a borehole as the ground source for the underfloor heating and hot water system with a closed combustion woodburning stove as back up.
Micro generation of renewable electricity using roof mounted Photovoltaic Panels.
Whole house heat recovery ventilation system.

1 Vote(s)

Phenomenal Villa Built From a Solid Cliff Rock

freshome — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 10:11:30 +0100

We really enjoy the fact that we come across residences that have a natural element in their structure, in its purest form. This is a great thing in many aspects, but we will just emphasize on the creativity and incredible work of architects that deal with this kind of unusual projects. This villa is located in the West of Sweden and comes from Wingardhs design studio. It is a private residence like any other, with all the utilities, and yet it has a main twist: because it was build in a mountain, a boulder was kept as an interior wall in both the bathroom and the kitchen, spreading a “nature feeling” all throughout the home. However, we have to wonder about the maintenance of the unusual walls and the materials used for finishes. Finally how many of you would like a part of the mountain inside their homes ?

2 Vote(s)

Yard That Features An Optical Illusion in San Francisco

freshome — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 20:48:17 +0100

"Deformscape" is a recent project from Thom Faulders, founder of Faulders Studio, an architecture company from the US. The project is in fact an interesting outdoor pattern that was created in order to bring something fresh to a house in San Francisco. We quote from the designer's website: "This limited space outdoor sculpture garden inherits a large tree, and uses this sole arboreal presence to establish a gravitational pattern of grooves that are focused towards the tree's centroid. [...] To generate the resultant pattern, a 3-dimensional bulge is formed around the tree, and its distorted wire-grid projected onto a 2-dimensional surface.

Taking into account appearance effects created by perspective views from inside, the resultant planar surface appears sink around the tree." If this project were implemented inside, it would probably not rise so much interest, However, being as it had to deal with opportunities existing in the environment, we consider that the idea behind is is very creative and original. What do you think?

1 Vote(s)

Dentist’s Office in Japan, A Good Reason for Your Routine Check-Ups

freshome — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:19:05 +0100

Probably one of the last things that comes to mind when looking at this building is the fact that it is actually a modern dentist office. We decided to show it to you today due to its unusual architecture and style. Located in Nagano, the construction belongs to Hiroki Tanabe, a talented architect from Japan. Here are some of the words of the project developers concerning the building: "This is a complex of a dental clinic and a dentist's residence, located in a beautiful farm village surrounded by rice fields and peach orchards. A concrete plate 300 millimetres thick forms zigzag structure, which makes up three shells and two open courtyards. As well as lying in alternate shifts, they face each other across the plate. Each shell has different functions inside, residence, clinic and waiting lounge. In each courtyard two glass boxes are set and used as pathways and entry halls between two adjacent shells." We are not sure that this is the sort of thing that would drive people to go to the dentist's more often, but you have to admit it is an interesting place to visit.- via

2 Vote(s)

“The Villa” from Studio Daniel Libeskind

freshome — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:07:55 +0100

This is what "twisted architecture" should actually be about: great looking buildings with completely unexpected angles and creative approaches. "The Villa" comes from Studio Daniel Libeskind, a company with offices in USA as well as in Europe. Here are some words from the architects' website concerning this project: " The Villa creates a new dialogue between contemporary living and a completely new experience of space. Built from premium materials, this German-made, sculptural living space meets the highest standards in design, craftsmanship and sustainability. It is unique at every turn, offering maximum insulation and durability, cutting-edge technologies and compliance with some of the toughest energy-saving standards across the world". So not only an impressive design, but also a sustainable living space built from last minute technologies.

1 Vote(s)

Incredible Underground Residence in Switzerland

freshome — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:24:42 +0100

Have you ever thought how it would be like to live in a bunker or an underground tunnel? Well, today we bring you the upgraded version of that, which is an all-equipped underground home. Situated in the Swiss village of Vals, deep in the mountains, the house is very hard to spot, which makes for a perfect gateway. The unusual architecture plan comes from SeARCH and Christian Muller Architects, and includes all the facilities a common house has, such as a guest room, an entertainment area, but also "specialized" interiors like an underground pathway. The entrance is a wide oval opening that you are driven to by some traditional stairs made in stone. Large windows make it noticeable and draw attention to the inside décors- that is when the people living there are up for some company. - via Trendir

15 Vote(s)

Vodafone Headquarters in Porto

freshome — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:17:24 +0100

We are used to important mobile phone operators to come up with fantastic commercials and build their brand on impressive advertising efforts. However, it's been a while since we've seen such a great office building. The architects from Barbosa & Guimaraes respected the Vodafone slogan ""Vodafone Life, Life in Motion" in creating this dynamic building. The construction has eight floors, three located underground. This is where the technical rooms are, but also the training rooms and the car parking spaces. We really like the fact that they went with white, rather than red, the other colour that symbolizes the brand. So what do you say?- Anyone thinking about changing their phone number after seeing this? - via; Pictures by Nelson Garrido

4 Vote(s)

Amazing Gas Station Design from Kanner Architects

freshome — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 23:27:57 +0100

A mix of form and function, the United Oil Gas Station from Kanner Architects is located in Los Angeles, California and is actually a mini-market, a 12-pump gas station, and a car wash. The imposing structure dominates the streets around it and will probably become a center of attraction for the near-by citizens. Its exterior features an interesting metal line, which is the roof of the small commercial place, but also comes in contact with the car wash. Another structure also has a double role, one as a platform for the cars getting in the gas station and the other as an overall design improvement. All in all, not many people would mind making a refuel in a gas-station like this.

2 Vote(s)

aChair by Ivo Otasevic

freshome — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:49:57 +0100

Ivo Otasevic is a Serbian architect who designed a multiform chair that, at the same time, is noted for its simplicity of design. a Chair is the name of the object that led Otasevic towards the lights of worldwide recognition in the last Design Fair of Milan. The young architect leads the Otako office, with headquarters in Belgrade and Moscow that besides developing projects of different scales, materializes furniture concepts that reveal a boundless creativity.

This chair is a compromise between an object of everyday use and art installation. Chair that is comfortable to sit on and which can be exposed as a sculpture in an inspiring space. The combination of colors and materials (wood, plastic,metal…) makes it a product in the concept store and a piece in the art gallery. Name, aCHAIR, comes from its spiral shape, which looks like a small letter "a". It symbolizes an author's wish to mark his first steps in a new, creative adventure of design.

14 Vote(s)

Amazing Restaurant Interior Design : Banq Restaurant in Boston

freshome — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 23:08:56 +0100

Designed by Office dA the Banq Restaurant is located in the old Penny Savings Bank (1375 Washington Street, Boston, MA) at the base of the old banking hal. Now this restaurant has a very unique design, and I'm pretty sure that every guest will remember this restaurant design, and of course talk about it. The wall and ceilings were decorate using wave element made from unique pieces of three-quarter-inch birch plywood adhered together in a scenario that likens to a puzzle; only one possible location for each unit, formulating the continuous member. Below the ceiling, the functional aspects of a dining space are fabricated with warm woods and relaminated bamboo amplifying the striping affect already at play throughout the space. Striations of the ground, the furnishings, and the ceiling all conspire to create a total effect, embedding the diners into the grain of the restaurant. Office dA managed to bypass any structural problems and create a very beautiful space out of an abandoned building. This is a great example of how inspired design can create a silk purse out of a sows ear.

3 Vote(s)

World’s First Ever Undersea Restaurant – Ithaa

freshome — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:02:00 +0100

I love new experiences and for those of you who are looking for a new experience there is something really cool. The world's first ever undersea restaurant called Ithaa ( which translate as "pearl" in the natives' language in Maldives, Dhivehi ) brought to you by Hilton Maldives Resort & Spa. This undersea restaurant cost less than $5 million and is part of a project to rebuilt the Rangalifinolhu Island into a tourist attraction. The restaurant sits 5 meters below the sea and is surrounded by vibrant coral reef offering a 270 degrees of panoramic underwater views. This 5 x 9 meter restaurant has a capacity of 14 people and was designed and constructed by M.J. Murphy Ltd which is a design consultancy based in New Zealand. The meals of this restaurant range in cost from USD$120 to USD$250.

2 Vote(s)

Private Residence in Minnesota by Arteriors Architecture

freshome — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:08:46 +0100

Designed by Tim R. Bjella, what really strikes you at first when looking at this place is its fantastic and original exterior design. The resemblance with a fortress can really lead you on at first, as you are not able to guess in a million years that this is actually a family home. However, when taking a look inside, your perception can change dramatically. The interior is very modern, the contemporary stairs are the focal point of the hallway and also the connection between the rooms. The kitchen has a circular design, according to the overall shape of the place. All-equipped, the bathrooms are stylish and luxurious. Who would not like to be trapped in a crib like this?

1 Vote(s)

Open Living Design : The Sebastopol Residence By Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects

freshome — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:04:10 +0100

Located in Sebastopol California this cozy home was designed for two graphic designers by Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects last year. The exterior is constructed from cedar siding with a metal roof and the interior features a Douglas fir ceiling and decking, sheetrock walls and Ipe flooring. The home has an expansive view from the glass facade of the northern wall while the elevation of the south wall gives privacy from the road outside, but still receives light from the clerestory windows. An open floor plan gives the residence a spacious feel although it is a modest size at 1,700 square feet. - Photographer: David Wakely, David Wakely Photography - Via - Decoist

3 Vote(s)

Z House by Eva Harlou

freshome — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:54:10 +0100

Designed by Eva Harlou the Z-House is a 700 sqm house located on the eastern coastline of Jutland, Denmark. The minimalistic Z-shape of the house is a simple geometrical shape that creates a three level house with outdoor terraces on two different levels with views towards the sea. Ramps lead from the surrounding garden to the indoor areas, linking indoor and outdoor spaces. The basement includes garage, storage, wine cellar, game rooms, bathrooms and a large indoor swimming-pool area with direct access to the garden. The top floor includes master bathroom, master bedroom with walk-in closet and a smaller living room with a fireplace. This floor has a unique panoramic view towards the sea and access to the top roof terrace surrounded by a hedge of bamboo. In the central part of the house a large wall painting underlines the triple high entrance hall creating a great vertical connection through the house.

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1 Vote(s)

Cable Drawings by Maisie Maud Broadhead

freshome — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:40:31 +0100

When you're decorating on a budget, sometimes it's a do-it-yourself project that gets most of your attention and your guests eyes. To prove that and if you have too much wire left from your television, designer Maisie Maud Broadhead has come up with a simple series of installations created with wire flex and cable fixings that mimic a fireplace frame. Together with a small lamp to focus your attention, you're basically allowed to create whatever form you like. So how about a small elephant in the kids' room? - via T&T

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1 Vote(s)

House On Harper’s Island by DaSilva Architects

freshome — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:28:04 +0100

With plenty of privacy, located in a remote and beautiful island, this fabulous house seems to have it all. The project belongs to Polhemus Savery DaSilva Architects, a company who has established a powerful design and architecture brand for itself due to all the amazing structures they have developed in the region. We particularly enjoy the exterior design of this construction and how it blends with the environment. The house is located in a green space and some rooms have views by the sea. You should also know this is not a construction built on a large area, so it is more like a small and cosy crib, even though the architects created a feeling of space when making the plans. A closer look will also reveal a modern and fresh interior, with many elements that draw attention: bunk beds for children, a colourful living-room area and a fresh overall approach We hope you will enjoy the pictures and that they will find in them a quality source of inspiration.

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2 Vote(s)

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