Capella hotel takes over former government building in Sydney

Capella Sydney hotel by Make and BAR Studio

Architecture firm Make and interior design practice BAR Studio have converted Sydney‘s heritage-listed Department of Education building into the latest outpost from Capella Hotels.

The adaptive reuse project involved adding a modern extension with curved glass corners to the building’s roof, set back from its sandstone facade to respect the original Edwardian Baroque architecture.

With these four additional floors, the building now measures eleven storeys high and houses 192 guest rooms alongside bars, restaurants and a 20-metre swimming pool that occupies the former sixth-floor gallery.

Entrance of Capella Sydney hotel
Sydney’s Department of Education building was converted into a Capella hotel

Since the Department of Education was constructed in Sydney’s historic Sandstone Precinct in 1912, its interior had been compromised with countless ad-hoc changes, according to Make.

The studio worked to restore the sense of grandeur envisioned by the original architect George McRae, for example by reinstating the internal garden courtyard on the ground floor.

“Stitching together the existing Edwardian Baroque-style structure with a new contemporary layer of architecture is one of many things that makes this landmark project stand out as a hotel,” Make designer Michelle Evans told Dezeen.

Restaurant of hotel by Make and BAR Studio
It now houses 192 guest rooms and restaurants including Brasseries 1930

“Capella Sydney has been a joy to work on, as it builds on our growing portfolio of reusing and adapting existing and heritage buildings,” she added.

Picking up the baton from Make, hospitality design firm BAR Studio was tasked with creating luxurious yet contemporary interiors for the hotel that work seamlessly with the history of the building.

“The heritage building that houses Capella Sydney provided us with the underpinning for the interior design,” said co-founder Stewart Robertson.

Pool of Capella Sydney hotel
A swimming pool occupies the building’s sixth-floor gallery

While the building’s exterior was largely intact, only a few areas of historical significance remained inside.

Some of these spaces offered incredible opportunities for reinvention, such as the gallery on the former top floor, which has become the Auriga spa and pool.

Meanwhile, references to the original steel-framed windows were incorporated into the interiors via a recurring motif of framed forms.

Steel in black and bronze finishes was used throughout the building to frame doors, windows and screens, making a subtle reference to the district’s origins in the age of industry.

This serves the practical purpose of delineating and dividing spaces but also brings a restrained form of embellishment, Robertson said.

“We’ve used framing techniques to create separation but also to build an organic connection between the public spaces,” he explained.

“We wanted the colour and finish to feel appropriate to the original era but also for these elements to read as new and sophisticated insertions.”

Treatment rooms in Capella Sydney hotel
The same floor also houses a spa

A palette of natural materials brings a sense of subtle luxury to the bedrooms and communal spaces.

Steel was used alongside honed marble, sandblasted travertine, natural wall coverings and light and dark timber. This approach enables the heritage features as well as the art and objects to become the focal points.

The colour palette, too, is simple and neutral, taking its cues from the material palette with stone-coloured walls and tan leather upholstery.

Spa in hotel by Make and BAR Studio
Each treatment room sits under a one of the original roof lanterns

“The neutral base palette of cream stone and dark and light timber integrates with the existing architectural and design elements but sets a warm and soothing mood, creating a real sanctuary from the surrounding city,” explained Robertson.

In keeping with the light touch of the new architectural interventions, much of the furniture draws on the concept of campaign furniture – traditionally made for military campaigns and therefore easy to transport.

“These portable and ingenious pieces bring the comforts of home to remote places,” said Robertson.

Guest room in hotel by Make and BAR Studio
A recurring motif of framed forms features throughout the hotel’s interiors

Other Capella hotels include the Norman Foster-designed Capella Resort – set on an island off the coast of Singapore – and the Capella Sanya, which won the 2020 AHEAD Asia award for best landscaping and outdoor spaces.

The photography is by Timothy Kay.

The post Capella hotel takes over former government building in Sydney appeared first on Dezeen.

The 2023 Design Intelligence Award: Enter for Free and Win Global Recognition + $723,000 Prize Fund

We’ve spoken at length on this website about how the Design Intelligence Award is shaping the future of the creative industry through its novel format. Established in 2015 by the China Academy of Art, the Design Intelligence Award (or DIA for short) is more than just an award that recognizes good design. It’s an ecosystem for cultivating innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. For almost a decade, this free-to-enter program has celebrated creativity and ingenuity, with a three-stage judging and evaluation process aimed at developing products that uniquely benefit humanity. The DIA Award also seeks to create a platform for accelerating international trade, increasing connectivity, and opening up commercial opportunities that help propel the Global East in the West-heavy Design Industry. Effective design is only truly impactful when it reaches and benefits a wider audience. With this in mind, the awards program has created a prize fund of ¥5 million RMB, equivalent to $728,000 USD, to support the development of exceptional ideas into exceptional designs. This initiative aims to incubate and nurture innovative concepts that have the potential to make a significant difference in the world of design.

Click Here to Enter Now: Registration Closes on 30th June, 2023 (24:00, UTC+8).

The Design Intelligence Award undergoes a rigorous judging process, comprising three stages. A group of 550 design experts assesses entries based on three key criteria. The first layer focuses on the essential “Principles of Design,” which includes factors such as functionality, aesthetics, technicality, user experience, and sustainability. The second layer considers the “Direction of Design,” taking into account how the design contributes to humanity, industry, and the future. The third and final layer emphasizes the “Impact of Design” on social influence and industrial development. The judging process concludes with a hands-on final round, ensuring that only the most exceptional designs are recognized.

The DIA Jury Panel is made up of 550 experts and judges from 37 countries and regions around the world. They carefully select 30 outstanding projects that showcase innovation and positive impact. These lucky winners receive a share of the DIA’s prize fund of ¥5 million RMB ($728,000 USD), with the top project receiving ¥1 million RMB. The winners are also invited to the prestigious DIA Award Ceremony, where they can connect with global representatives from various sectors such as design, academia, and media. They also have the opportunity to attend the D-WILL expert lectures, sponsored by the Zhejiang Modern Intelligent Manufacturing Promotion Center and Design Innovation Center of China Academy of Art. These lectures aim to inspire innovation and collaboration by featuring education experts, industry leaders, and pioneers who share their knowledge and achievements with the next generation. Finally, the winners benefit from media exposure through a coordinated PR campaign, which helps to promote their work to a wider audience. If you’re curious, scroll below to check out some of last year’s Design Intelligence Awards winners and honorable mentions!

This year’s Design Intelligence Award is open for entries. Submit your innovative idea for a chance to win up to ¥1 million RMB ($147,000 USD) and bring your life-changing design to reality! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a difference. Click here to enroll for the 2023 Design Intelligence Awards FOR FREE!

2022 Design Intelligence Awards winners and Honorable Mentions

Shuttle Footwear by SCRY

The birth of SCRY Shuttle marks a new era in the footwear industry, where digitalization is revolutionizing the way shoes are made. Unlike traditional shoes, SCRY Shuttle is manufactured using an integrated 3D printing process that eliminates the need for assembly, reduces material waste, and eliminates lengthy assembly lines… and that unique approach reflects in the shoe’s drop-dead gorgeous design too! The shoe is made from a single material that is engineered to achieve the required performance of different parts, making it easy to recycle. The midsole of the shoe is filled with an innovative lattice structure that provides a soft and comfortable foot experience. The Shuttle isn’t designed for retail, however, SCRY does sell some stunning accent footwear on their website.

HiPhi Z by Human Horizons

With two electric motors mounted on the rear wheels, the HiPhi Z can generate over 600 horsepower and 605 pound-feet of torque, making the EV China’s answer to Tesla. It’s quick too, with a 0-62 mph time of just 3.8 seconds, comparable to the Model 3. And if you’re worried about range anxiety, don’t be – the Z can travel up to 438 miles on a single charge. What really sets the Z apart, however, is its unique LED matrix under each headlight and taillight. Not only does it look cool, but it can also display text, emojis, and other fun things. So not only will you enjoy driving the Z, but you’ll also turn heads and make people smile as you pass by.

Square Off Swap by Infivention Technologies

Following the launch of Square Off, an AI-automated chess board that you could play against, the Square Off Swap extends the same technology, but now with the ability to play multiple games on the same board. Offering users the ability to now play games like Chess, Checkers, Halma, and Connect 4 on a single surface, the Square Off Swap features better internals that are much more responsive, offering faster and more reactive gameplay and interactive embedded lights that just do wonders to uplift the gaming experience, while keeping everything extremely real!

U-Lab 001 Guitar by Unknown Galaxy Technology (Shenzhen) Ltd. & inDare Design Strategy Ltd.

The U-Lab 001 may look like a typical guitar, but it’s anything but ordinary. With a hollow cutout, no strings, and the ability to fold in half for easy travel, this guitar is perfect for beginners with little to no formal training. The right-hand rocker switches simulate strumming, while the touch-sensitive light-up fretboard under the left hand teaches notes, chords, and music theory. A companion smartphone app enhances the learning experience. The ULab 001 also boasts a built-in speaker, volume control, a knob to change the guitar’s scale, and a headphone jack for silent practice.

Little Patience Meditation Seat by Shine Meditation Health Technology

The Little Patience Meditation Seat is designed to guide users into sitting cross-legged, promoting an upright back and inwardly folded legs. This posture has been used for thousands of years in Oriental and Indian cultures for meditation and eating, as it increases blood circulation, joint flexibility, and strengthens bones while aiding digestion. The seat’s unique design resembles a saddle with a concave middle, requiring some guidance for first-time users. However, it encourages a healthy sitting practice that benefits both physical and mental well-being, making it an unusual but worthwhile addition to any space!

VT-30 by EHang

The VT-30 is an eVTOL aircraft created by leading Chinese manufacturer EHang for inter-city travel. It follows a “lift and cruise” model and is fully autonomous, with a capacity of two passengers. The aircraft can travel up to 300 km on a single battery charge, with flight times of up to 100 minutes. It can take off and land on both runways and helipads, given its vertical and take-off capabilities. Unlike other air taxi developers, EHang’s design is compact and sleek, with a smaller cockpit contributing to its impressive range.

FlipPack by Guangzhou Korin Technology

Korin Design’s engineers have developed a cutting-edge backpack that boasts magnetic side pockets for swift access and a sleek, waterproof exterior. Dubbed the FlipPack, for its flip-out magnetic side pockets, the backpack also offers exceptional security with RFID blocking, a concealed magnetic back pocket, air cell straps for added comfort, and a collapsible structure for effortless storage.

Sustainable Shopping Bag by Lim Sungmook

Crafted rather wonderfully from a single sheet of durable and waterproof Tyvek material, the Sustainable Shopping Bag is a smart alternative to single-use plastic bags that end up in landfills. Its net-based design is not only strong but also requires less material, making it an eco-friendly choice. The bag’s clever cuts allow it to expand and accommodate a range of items, from groceries to clothes and even a wine bottle. Available in various sizes, colors, and patterns, the bag’s patented design is both practical and stylish.

YA CONG Handle Pot by Hangzhou Great Wisdom Creative Design

Challenging the common silhouette of the teapot, the YA CONG features a unique squarish design that strays away from tradition, and also exhibits a new style of pottery that can’t be crafted on a rotary potter’s wheel. The unique shape is systematically designed with the characteristics of “square outside and round inside”, emphasizing both rigidity and softness. In straying away from the traditional shape of teapots, the YA CONG creates its own style and tradition with high artistic value and practical function.

Helloface Transparent Respirator Mask by oneoverthree for Handan Hengyong

While it’s safe to say that the pandemic is behind us, it’s also worth remembering that we still need masks, not for protection from pathogens, but rather from terrible air quality. A majority of the third world lives with incredibly polluted air (urban cities in first-world countries aren’t any better), and the Helloface Transparent Respirator Mask hopes to usher in a future where people can wear masks without obstructing their facial expressions. The mask features a cartridge on the front as well as inlets and outlets on the side that allow air to flow in and out comfortably without fogging up the inside. The rest of the mask itself is made from transparent plastic, allowing the wearer to still visually express themselves and interact with others without any barriers.

Click Here to Enroll for the 2023 Design Intelligence Awards FOR FREE! Registration Closes on 30th June, 2023 (24:00, UTC+8).

The post The 2023 Design Intelligence Award: Enter for Free and Win Global Recognition + $723,000 Prize Fund first appeared on Yanko Design.

ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI robot vacuum’s advanced mopping tech cleans floors, protects carpets

Robot vacuum cleaners have come a long way since the very first Roombas rolled on the floors of a few lucky homeowners. Although their basic round designs haven’t changed much, their capabilities have grown significantly in recent years. It’s almost rare for decent robot vacuum cleaners or RVCs not to have some self-emptying function these days, and some even advertise mopping capabilities. But while these RVCs claim to be able to both suck up and mop away dirt, most are just good at one or the other. There’s a lot left to be desired when it comes to mopping efficiency, and that’s where ECOVACS’ new DEEBOT T20 OMNI comes in, raising the bar for mopping performance while making sure that your precious carpets remain safe and dry all the time.

Designer: ECOVACS Design

Click Here to Reserve Now! The first 500 customers get a $50 Accessories package upon purchase on June 13.

Robot vacuums that can also mop are pretty convenient because you don’t have to buy two separate devices to keep your floors clean. That said, a lot of floors aren’t just made of hard surfaces like tiles, wood, or vinyl, and some homes use carpets in a few areas, and it would be disastrous for these robots to roll over those with wet mops. Most vacuum cleaners simply avoid these areas if you have the mopping function turned on, requiring you to do double the work by going over carpeted areas without mop heads attached.

The ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI’s solution is smarter and more efficient. It simply lifts the mop plates as high as 9mm when transitioning from hard floor to soft carpeting, a height that no other robot vacuum has so far reached, while simultaneously increasing the suction power to make sure it gets all the dirt buried deep in the fuzzy material. This LiftUp OZMO Turbo 2.0 Rotating Mopping System ensures that your carpet is safe and dry while giving it a thorough cleaning.

The DEEBOT T20 OMNI’s mopping upgrades don’t stop there. Its self-washing function cleans those rotating mop heads with hot water set to 131°F in order to more effectively remove not only dirt but also stubborn oil and grease. It then uses hot air to dry the mop, eliminating bacteria and odors and making sure that it’s ready for the next round of cleaning.

In addition to smart and powerful vacuuming and mopping, ECOVACS also put the smartest brains and eyes inside the DEEBOT T20 OMNI. TrueMapping 2.0 uses the same LIDAR technology seen in self-driving cars to create a more accurate map of your floor, while TrueDetect 3D 2.0 avoids objects and obstacles like toys, keys, wires, and, of course, kids and pets. You can easily control the robot vacuum with your voice, thanks to ECOVACS’ YIKO AI, and you can even integrate it with the rest of your smart home using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri Shortcuts. With its superior suction power, upgraded mopping functions, and intelligent navigation, the ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI promises a cleaner house, peace of mind, and more time to spend on the more important things in life.

Click Here to Reserve Now! The first 500 customers get a $50 Accessories package upon purchase on June 13.

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Top 5 sleek coffee machines for diehard coffee lovers

I love coffee, I need it to start my day, or else I simply refuse to start my day! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your own hard work, something precariously prepared with your own personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive coffee machine is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and actually operating the machine)! From a warm and gentle capsule coffee machine to a speaker-like portable coffee machine for coffee on the go – this collection of super cool and easy-to-use coffee machines will start you off on your coffee brewing journey. Cheers!

1. The Woolly Capsule Coffee Machine

The Woolly capsule coffee machine concept radiates a sense of softness and approachability and has a rather adorable appeal to it. It consists of very few straight lines and a muted color palette that heavily avoids black and reds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee machine consists of wooden panels and metallic accents that contrast interestingly against the textured plastic surface of the body, creating a unique composition that is appealing to the eyes.

What we like

  • Soft and friendly aesthetic, unlike the typical daunting coffee machines we come across
  • Features embedded touch-sensitive buttons on the panel that take interaction to the next level

What we dislike

  • A wooden body and coffee-stained fingers may disrupt the aesthetics of the machine

2. The Breeze Coffee Machine

Designed for the South Korean coffee brand Dongsuh, the Breeze coffee machine is a capsule coffee machine with a twist. It has a refreshing soft color palette with white, charcoal, and pink variants to represent a gentler personality.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee machine features a ridged surface wrapped around the base, which contrasts with the smoother texture of the head. The tall water tank at the back complements the subdued hues of the machine, sending across a message of calm.

What we like

  • The design includes a more tactile interface to operate the machine, using clearly marked LED-backlit buttons at the top of the head

What we dislike

  • It’s a capsule-based coffee machine but there is no knowledge shared on how to make the process reduce wastage or make it more sustainable

3. POCO

POCO: Portable capsule coffee machine is a compact and lightweight device that you can slide with ease into your back or backpack along with the required coffee pods. It’s the perfect coffee maker on the go for coffee lovers!

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s rechargeable using a USB-C: You can charge it on the go using your laptop or a portable charger. This makes it an ideal device for people who are always on the move.

What we like

  • Features a built-in thermal insulation function
  • Allows you to enjoy coffee anytime and anywhere

What we dislike

  • Since it’s a concept we don’t know how functional and credible it will be as an actual product

4. The CJ

Espresso machine manufacturer Moak commissioned the Italian industrial designer Odo Fioravanti to design an eye-catching machine that is minimal, modernist, and brutalist

Why is it noteworthy?

Called the CJ (Coffee Jockey), the coffee machine includes various geometric shapes that have been bundled up together to create a design that is simple and beautiful. It has a soft pastel color which imparts the espresso machine with a classy and refined look.

What we like

  • You can actually put two coffee cups in front and get two sizable espresso shots out of one process

What we dislike

  • The design is for Moak and promises a new coffee blend and capsule system that is not shown yet, so we cannot speak on its functionality

5. Muuto

Designed by PDF Haus, Muuto is a minimalist matte coffee maker built from ceramic steel, that can be operated and used with the click of a single button.

Why is it noteworthy?

This minimalist coffee maker has a simple, no-frills design. It is intuitive by design and features a single button to kickstart the entire operation. The button is an easy-click power key placed on Muuto’s main rounded chamber. A tiny LED light can be found just above the main power switch and indicates three different signals to users: on, off, and fill.

What we like

  • A no-frills coffee machine that is perfect for modern kitchens
  • Intuitive and easy-to-use

What we dislike

  • Overall a bulky piece that needs a sizeable real estate on your kitchen coutertop

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This retro-futuristic headphone stand puts a mesmerizing light display on your desk

Even with the rise of wireless earbuds, many people still prefer the more immersive audio experience provided by conventional headphones, whether wired or wireless. Different people will have different reasons for using these larger accessories, but almost all of them share a similar problem of not having a good place for them when not in use. Headphone holders or stands are nothing new, but most of them share the same design of having the headphones hang on a hook, forcing it to be balanced on a single point of the band’s arch. While such a design isn’t completely bad, especially for those aiming for minimalist aesthetics, it isn’t exactly inspiring and probably not the best way to show off your favorite audio accessory. It would definitely be swell if the headphone stand could also do something else other than, well, standing in place, and that’s the kind of visual appeal that this unique desk accessory brings using not only premium materials but a little play of light as well.

Designer: Sergii Grebeniuk

Headphone holders tend to hang the audio accessory a little above a table or shelf. The most common way to do that would be to hang it by a hook, but this leaves the headphones dangling almost precariously by a small piece of metal, wood, or plastic. It might even cause the headband to deform over time due to gravity, which isn’t a good way to take care of your favorite pair.

These LED headphone stands solve that problem by letting the headphones rest on a circular structure that follows the contours of its curve more naturally. The stand looks almost like a miniature and flat head, giving the resting headphones a more familiar yet characteristic look. The main body is also made of eco-friendly high-quality wood with a variety of veneer finishes that make the headphone holder stand out easily, even in its inert form.

Its true killer feature, however, is what sits in the middle of that “head”, a circular lantern with LED lighting that acts as the centerpiece and center of attraction. The colors of the LED lights can be changed to one’s tastes or, alternatively, have the lantern automatically cycle through those colors. Engravings on the front and rear glass surfaces of the lantern create wavelike patterns that further enhance the visual effect of the lights, making the stand look like a retro-futuristic product rather than a normal desk accessory.

Because of the lantern’s mild light, this LED headphone stand can also function as a night light for your room or accent light on your desk. It’s definitely an interesting design that elevates your headphones, literally and figuratively, while also functioning as an enchanting piece of decoration, even when your headphones aren’t resting on them.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Japandi Design Style

The emerging Japandi design trend melds the Japanese and Scandinavian modern interior design styles. Featuring a brilliant combination of Scandinavian functionality and Japanese minimalism, the design style is deeply rooted in simplicity and comfort. Although Japan and Scandinavia or the Nordic countries of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are distinctly different in culture and geographically different, they are designed on the same principles. The origin of this design style dates back to 1853, when Japan lifted its border policies after years of seclusion. Shortly after this event, Danish designers and creatives started visiting Japan and got fascinated by Japanese oriental aesthetics.

Designer: Ward 5 Design

Also known as the Scandi-Japanese style, the Scandi design follows the notion of “hygge,” meaning coziness, where the home should be your sanctuary that can exude elegance, conviviality, and well-being. The Nordics wanted to add warmth into the interiors so that their homes could feel peaceful and comfortable, especially throughout the cold and dark winters. It aims to improve everyday life and creates coziness with a mix of materials like velvet, leather, knits, and crochets and pays attention to furniture details. The Japanese design follows the concept of “wabi-sabi,” which values contentment and slow living and celebrates the beauty of imperfections. The fusion of “hygge” and “wabi-sabi” determines the critical elements of the Japandi design style. Since both these design trends have many standard features, their core philosophy is to merge the rustic Nordic décor with the sleek Japanese design and create a Zen vibe.

The prime objective of the Japandi design style is to design with intention. This style creates a warm and welcoming space with a fusion of clean lines with functional style. Moreover, its beautiful and practical design encourages one to stay close to nature. These design elements will help you to master your interiors and exteriors.

Beautiful Craftsmanship

Furniture design forms one of the most important components of a Japandi interior design style. Look for artisan pieces of furniture with a timeless appeal so that one can use them for years to come, as the focus is quality instead of cheap throwaway pieces. Japandi furniture design makes a statement without adornment, the details are handmade, and each piece is unique, and there is no similarity between the two parts. Wood is the most prominent material in this design typology since it is readily available in Japan, and the country is known for its mastery of timber. Every piece is intentionally chosen in a particular space so that it can add meaning and purpose. For example, low-height furniture is evocative of the concept of being close to the earth.

Designer: Manh Duy

Warm Palette

The Scandi palette is gray, white, and brown, while the Japanese palette incorporates autumnal hues and colors from the earth and the sky. Create an earthy feel with muted pearl gray and sky blue colors with hints of pale green. The colors of nature play wonderfully with the organic material of Japandi-style space. A bold color can be used as an accent in the decorative accessories and throw pillows to complement the wood tones. These colors can be layered to mimic the look of a natural landscape.

Designer: Nada Hasham

Sustainability

There is a focus on sustainability, the use of natural materials, and eco-friendly aesthetics. Japandi does not believe in the one-time-use culture, and the options should be environmentally safe. Avoid plastic and look for home décor items in natural materials like wood, stone, and woven textiles.

Both cultures have a deep fondness for nature and sustainability. In Japan, there is a psychological exercise called “Shinrin-yoku,” which means “Forest Bathing,” whose purpose is to inspire people to reconnect with the country’s forests. The Norwegian people follow the concept of “Friluftsliv,” also known as “Outdoor Life,” which is about spending time and enjoying the outdoors.

Designer: Sipal-WAFAI.Architecture

Use Organic Materials

Japandi focuses on natural materials like unfinished wood and incorporates organic materials like rattan, wicker, cane, wood, and bamboo, along with comfortable fabrics like cotton, linen, and hemp. A mix of materials creates a serene space. Moreover, the design style is distinctly organic, where the ceramics, bowls, and even lighting can be in organic materials.

Designer: Delicate Decor

Introduce Plants

Plants and greenery work as genuine accessories and can bring in a sense of outdoor living. They purify the indoor air and form a decorative accent. The Japandi style has a profound respect for nature and focuses on less but bigger sizes of plants. To complete the picture, beautify the interiors and create a nature-inspired décor with houseplants like hanging vines and bonsai trees or beautiful plants in large ceramics. Plants create a warm and welcoming look and soften a minimalist interior.

Designer: Japandi Lights

Decluttered Spaces

Japandi emphasizes comfort and simplicity, making every item functional yet aesthetically pleasing. There is a focus on openness and zero clutter so that the space looks clean, fresh, and minimal. An open-plan layout exudes a tranquil space connected with the outdoors to create a brilliant indoor-outdoor connection. If there is less space for storage, use natural storage solutions like wicker baskets, boxes, and trays. Use bamboo or folding screens to camouflage clutter.

The bedrooms are minimalistic, with minimal window dressing, few art pieces, and comfortable bedding. A good curation of art pieces, mirrors, rugs, tables, and lamps infuses coziness without creating a cluttered look. Additionally, a Japandi bedroom supports rest and encourages a tech-free space that encourages sleep and minimizes distraction.

Designer: Hilight Design

Bring In Natural Light

Natural light creates a bright, airy interior and is the gateway to the natural world. Japandi integrates large windows to bring in plenty of natural light while the reflective surface of neutral-hued walls bounces the natural light. If there is less natural light, one can use mirrors to reflect more light. The rooms should be softly lit for a tranquil interior. Consider industrial lights to add a Scandinavian vibe that can infuse warmth with handcrafted pendant lights or retro pendants in copper finish. Use floor lamps for a warm and cozy glow.

Designer: chrisfluence

Stripped Furniture

Japandi furniture uses different materials, textures, and colors, infusing peace, serenity, and a comfortable feel. One can accentuate the space with a chair or coffee table in a bold color. Create contrast with dark and light wood tones as Japan uses dark wood Cedar, Red Pine, and Cypress, while Scandinavia uses light wood oak, mahogany, pine, and teak. This is a great way to create visual interest, bring the space together, and create a warm and harmonious feel.

Designer: Hishida Komuten

Sumptuous Textures

Japandi design infuses warmth and interest using sumptuous textures and fabrics. This can be achieved in the curtains, upholstery, and rugs, which will infuse warmth. A big cozy rug in natural materials is a must-have in a minimalist bedroom as it provides a warm underfoot whenever one enters or exits the bed.

Designer: Veronique (Veer.enmeer)

Balance

The Japandi style does not believe in symmetry but uses different furniture pieces that can create an organic feel. One must pay attention to the visual weight of each piece as this design style aims to create balance and promotes relaxation.

Designer: Stewart-Schafer

A fusion of Japanese minimalism and warm Scandinavian interiors has emerged as one of the most popular style combinations of the decade. These tips will help you to create your favorite look.

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Brazilian architects renovate Brigadeiro Apartment for themselves

Architect couple Leandro Garcia and Amanda Dalla-Bona have renovated a 1970s apartment in Curitiba, Brazil, for themselves, reconfiguring the layout and choosing eclectic furniture.

All of the electrics and plumbing needed to be replaced, and the floor plan was rethought to create “a place to pause and retreat”.

Living room with caramel-coloured armchair and ottoman
The couple remodelled the apartment to suit their needs

Three bedrooms were replaced with two to make room for a larger living and dining area, which could be integrated with the existing kitchen.

Original features including the window frames and the imbuia parquet floor were retained and restored, while a variety of new materials were introduced.

Living room with blue sofa and vintage furniture pieces
The living space with brightened by white walls, large rugs and translucent curtains

The Brigadeiro Apartment has been in Dalla-Bona’s family since the 1980s – it was her parents’ home as newlyweds and where her older sister was born.

After moving out when they planned their second child, the parents rented out the 108-square-metre space for 30 years.

Exposed concrete column with chairs in the background
A concrete column was exposed while reconfiguring the floor plan

Due to its central location, Dalla-Bona always discouraged them from selling it, as she had intentions to move in herself one day.

When that time came recently, she and her partner Garcia decided to remodel the interiors to better align with their needs.

Wooden dining table with an assortment of caned chairs
The architects custom-designed a 4.5-metre-long dining table for themselves

“From the apartment the view is expansive, a rare characteristic in the city centre, and we were both captivated by the natural light, the sun and wind streaming in through the windows,” said the couple.

“Walking a few blocks, we arrive at our favorite cafes and restaurants and in our studio, where we work together,” they added.

Wooden dining table and chairs atop parquet floor
Removing a bedroom allowed the living space to be opened up to the kitchen

Terrazzo countertops and a backsplash of hydraulic tiles were added in the kitchen, while a concrete column in the living room was exposed.

The remainder of the lounge area is brightened by white walls, textured rugs and translucent curtains.

White kitchen with terrazzo countertops and hydraulic tiles
Terrazzo countertops and hydraulic tiles were introduced in the kitchen

An assortment of vintage modernist and newer furniture pieces – mostly by Brazilian designers – add colour and character to the interiors.

Mid-century seating by Percival Lafer, Flavio de Carvalho and Geraldo de Barros are among the couple’s choices, along with a collection of lamps, stools and tables.

“In the living room, the furniture – not only the armchairs, but also the carpets, must be soft to sit on the ground – was chosen, thrifted and positioned for conversations and readings,” they said.

Garcia and Dalla-Bona also custom-designed a 4.5-metre-long wood dining table to accommodate their various daily activities, and host their friends and family for meals.

Small wooden desk in front of translucent curtain
A variety of vintage furniture pieces were sourced for the interiors

Besides the cabinetry in the kitchen and bathroom, all of the storage and furniture is moveable.

In the bathroom, the floor and walls are covered in small white mosaic tiles, affixed with matching grout for a clean, minimalist appearance.

Bathroom lined with white mosaic tiles
White mosaic tiles and grout create a minimalistic look in the bathroom

Curitiba, in the southern Brazilian state of Paraná, is the site of several projects completed by Garcia, Dalla-Bona and their team, including the renovation of a compact apartment renovated for a journalist.

The studio has also overhauled a family’s holiday home near the beach in Matinhos, and filled it with vintage Brazilian furniture.

The photography is by Fran Parente.

The post Brazilian architects renovate Brigadeiro Apartment for themselves appeared first on Dezeen.

This Czech Winery has a Sloping Green Roof that let’s it merge with the landscape

The Gurdau Winery in the Czech Republic is tucked away in the lush rolling landscape of beautiful fields and vineyards located outside the village of Kurdějov. It is historically known to be one of the region’s most important wine-growing site sites and has recently received a large inflow of wine tourism. Local practice Aleš Fiala studio designed a sweeping and sloping grass-topped concrete roof over the winery to subtly conceal it.

Designer: Aleš Fiala Studio

The idea behind the sweeping green roof was to help the new building subtly and seamlessly merge with its green landscape. Concrete tunnels were dug into the site to create “cultivated encounters and connections between man, wine, and landscape,” the studio said. “The landscape context is addressed in the form of a gentle curve – a wave in the landscape, a hill between hills…great care has been taken to incorporate the building into the terrain and its connection to the cultural and natural greenery,” architect Aleš Fiala said.

“Embedding the building in the terrain creates a feeling of a welcoming background and a natural blending with the place from which the wine comes,” Fiala continued. The sweeping roof and the ground meet, allowing the building to blend with a series of winding concrete walls that supports planters around a paved patio. The back of the building features massive concrete columns that form a parking and delivery area. The roof has been marked with large circular cut-outs that merge with the glazing on the ground floor, allowing the winery’s reception and tasting rooms to be filled with streaming natural light.

The front of the winery includes a large terrace that can be entered via a glazed facade, which is protected from the sun with the help of wooden slats and a sleep canopy. The basement level houses the processing area and two apartments for visitors. “The production areas are located under the terrain, while the customer areas are open to the sun through a glass facade, thus making use of passive energy,” explained Fiala. “The spaces of the wine house are changeable and conducive to social, and romantic moments as well as quiet contemplation over a glass of wine,” he concluded.

The post This Czech Winery has a Sloping Green Roof that let’s it merge with the landscape first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apollo Architects & Associates create home from stacked volumes in Tokyo

Exterior of Laxus by Apollo Architects & Associates

Two cantilevered stacked volumes of contrasting materials form Laxus, a new home designed by Japanese studio Apollo Architects & Associates.

Located on a corner plot in the Ota Ward of Tokyo, the house was designed by Apollo Architects & Associates for a client with a love of walnut wood and contemporary Italian furniture.

Exterior of Laxus by Apollo Architects & Associates
Apollo Architects & Associates has completed Laxus

The two stacked cubes that comprise the home were designed to “create a continuity between the interior and exterior while ensuring privacy and security,” Apollo principal architect Satoshi Kurosaki told Dezeen.

“The exterior materials are different each floor, resulting in a highly abstract building.”

Exterior of Laxus by Apollo Architects & Associates
The house is formed of two stacked volumes

The ground floor volumes built from board-formed, exposed concrete, while the upper floor was clad in contrasting black composite lumber.

The upper volume projects over the front of the lower volume, creating a covered entrance to the home and a carport area.

Entrance to house in Tokyo
The upper volume projects over the front of the lower volume

On entering the home, a hallway leads to the master bedroom and children’s room. Both these rooms overlook an enclosed terrace with trees and shrubs.

“The building is enclosed by a high concrete wall imprinted with the Japanese cedar formwork used to make it, which blocks views of the interior from the street,” Kurosaki explained.

Stairs lead up to the open plan living and kitchen area on the first floor, which has a vaulted ceiling clad in warm walnut wood.

A long skylight runs above the staircase to the north, with integrated louvres to temper the effects of the sun’s rays on the internal space.

Open-plan living room of Laxus house by Apollo Architects & Associates
There is an open-plan living and kitchen area on the first floor

The living area opens out onto a second enclosed terrace. Large plate glass windows bring natural light from this outdoor space into the living and dining space.

The bathroom on this floor also overlooks the terrace. The bathtub is positioned in front of the window to give views into this green space when bathing.

Terrace of Japanese house
A terrace completes the home

Founded in 2000 by Kurosaki, Apollo Architects & Associates is based in Tokyo. The studio’s previous projects include a home that blurs indoor and outdoor spaces and a residence that is arranged around a series of hidden courtyards.

The photography is by Masao Nishikawa.

The post Apollo Architects & Associates create home from stacked volumes in Tokyo appeared first on Dezeen.

Apollo Architects & Associates create home from stacked volumes in Tokyo

Exterior of Laxus by Apollo Architects & Associates

Two cantilevered stacked volumes of contrasting materials form Laxus, a new home designed by Japanese studio Apollo Architects & Associates.

Located on a corner plot in the Ota Ward of Tokyo, the house was designed by Apollo Architects & Associates for a client with a love of walnut wood and contemporary Italian furniture.

Exterior of Laxus by Apollo Architects & Associates
Apollo Architects & Associates has completed Laxus

The two stacked cubes that comprise the home were designed to “create a continuity between the interior and exterior while ensuring privacy and security,” Apollo principal architect Satoshi Kurosaki told Dezeen.

“The exterior materials are different each floor, resulting in a highly abstract building.”

Exterior of Laxus by Apollo Architects & Associates
The house is formed of two stacked volumes

The ground floor volumes built from board-formed, exposed concrete, while the upper floor was clad in contrasting black composite lumber.

The upper volume projects over the front of the lower volume, creating a covered entrance to the home and a carport area.

Entrance to house in Tokyo
The upper volume projects over the front of the lower volume

On entering the home, a hallway leads to the master bedroom and children’s room. Both these rooms overlook an enclosed terrace with trees and shrubs.

“The building is enclosed by a high concrete wall imprinted with the Japanese cedar formwork used to make it, which blocks views of the interior from the street,” Kurosaki explained.

Stairs lead up to the open plan living and kitchen area on the first floor, which has a vaulted ceiling clad in warm walnut wood.

A long skylight runs above the staircase to the north, with integrated louvres to temper the effects of the sun’s rays on the internal space.

Open-plan living room of Laxus house by Apollo Architects & Associates
There is an open-plan living and kitchen area on the first floor

The living area opens out onto a second enclosed terrace. Large plate glass windows bring natural light from this outdoor space into the living and dining space.

The bathroom on this floor also overlooks the terrace. The bathtub is positioned in front of the window to give views into this green space when bathing.

Terrace of Japanese house
A terrace completes the home

Founded in 2000 by Kurosaki, Apollo Architects & Associates is based in Tokyo. The studio’s previous projects include a home that blurs indoor and outdoor spaces and a residence that is arranged around a series of hidden courtyards.

The photography is by Masao Nishikawa.

The post Apollo Architects & Associates create home from stacked volumes in Tokyo appeared first on Dezeen.