A Linoleum Birdhouse Game That Educates and Instils The Values Of Sustainability

In an interesting collaboration, design studio Mano de Santo has joined forces with French design atelier Tarkett to introduce ELVI. This innovative urban birdhouse game delves into the transformative potential of reusing materials. An eco-friendly and adaptable creation that not only highlights the versatility of linoleum but also aims to provide an interactive learning experience, fostering awareness and coexistence with urban wildlife.

Designers: Mano de Santo and Tarkett

In the world of birdhouse games, ELVI is not your everyday player. It stands out for its incredible ability to fit in just about anywhere – be it on streetlights, trees, balconies, or bars. It has a way of seamlessly blending into different spots, making it the go-to choice for those who appreciate a touch of beauty. What makes it even cooler is its modular design, making it super easy for anyone to put it together. You can be your own urban designer, customizing the birdhouse to match your style. The DIY aspect of ELVI adds a unique and personal dimension to the birdhouse-making process. By allowing individuals to assemble the birdhouse themselves, it creates a sense of connection to the project. This hands-on approach not only fosters a personal connection with the final product but also instills a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in its creation.

But this birdhouse is not just about looking good; it’s on a mission to teach us some important values. Imagine it as a wise friend, sharing knowledge about linoleum – a material often used for floors. It’s not just comfortable and durable; it’s also super versatile. You can find it in schools, hospitals, and many other places. The birdhouse takes this material and turns it into a piece of art that fits perfectly into our daily lives. The DIY nature encourages more people to actively engage in sustainable practices. As individuals take part in the creation of their birdhouses, they become more conscious of the materials used and the environmental impact of their choices.

Beyond its good looks, it takes on another important role as an educational tool. It’s like a guiding light, showing us how linoleum can be recycled and why it’s so good for the environment. It’s a product of the values of Tarkett, emphasizing how linoleum can be recovered and reused after we’re done using it. By pointing out the linoleum’s cleanliness and its ability to become new floors, the birdhouse wants us to feel responsible for taking care of our environment.

The hands-on experience serves as an educational tool, promoting a greater understanding of the importance of reusing materials like linoleum and contributing to a culture of sustainability.

By creating ELVI, a birdhouse game that goes beyond just being pretty, the project adds a special touch to urban spaces. Its design and focus on the eco-friendly qualities of linoleum make it more than just a decoration; it becomes a symbol of responsible choices and a reminder that we can live in harmony with nature even in our busy cities.

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The Flaming Mini Light Is Designed To Capture & Portray The Poise & Elegance Of Its Namesake Bird

If you’ve recently done up your home, or are simply looking to rejuvenate your current interior decor, then you may want to consider adding a few bespoke and uplifting lighting designs. A beautifully designed lighting fixture can completely uplift and elevate a living space! A well-designed lighting fixture should not only be able to efficiently illuminate any living space but also add that extra oomph factor! I mean, of course, we need them to see in the dark, but as highly functional as they should be, a lighting fixture also needs to be aesthetically pleasing, adding an attractive and visually soothing element to your home or office space. And, a lighting design that would make a fitting addition to your home is the Flamingo Mini lighting by Antoni Arola for Vibia.

Designer: Antoni Arola for Vibia

Designed by Barcelona-based designer Antoni Arola for Vibia, the Flamingo Mini light is a deconstructed pendant light that utilizes polycarbonate diffusers to cast an ethereal and customizable glow. It was designed by Arola to capture and portray the poise, elegance, and grace of the bird after which it is named.

The Flamingo Mini light is made using a cylindrical LED light, which artfully hangs on stainless steel rods, and emits light through subtle layers of translucent polycarbonate diffusers. “Flamingo Mini’s delicate, deconstructed silhouette expresses a sense of extreme lightness,” said Vibia. “By separating the light source from the diffusers, light is projected onto each shade rather than surrounding the source, resulting in an ethereal, weightless effect.”

The polycarbonate diffusers are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be arranged to suit the proportions of the space they are placed in. The light source can be directed in an upward direction to create an ambient flow, or it can be pointed downwards to produce an intimate illumination – for example over a dining table. Flamingo Mini is a smaller version of the brand’s Flamingo product, and it is designed for smaller rooms with lower ceilings.

The post The Flaming Mini Light Is Designed To Capture & Portray The Poise & Elegance Of Its Namesake Bird first appeared on Yanko Design.

ALA draws on West Village history for Talea taproom interiors

New York studio Alda Ly Architecture has designed a taproom for female- and veteran-owned brewery Talea in the city’s West Village neighbourhood, which includes a place for groups to “scheme”.

Talea West Village is the beer company’s third outpost and its first Manhattan location, following two established in Brooklyn.

Bar area with stools surrounding a purple-fronted counter
The main dining and drinking area at the Talea West Village taproom is anchored by a colourful bar

The space is located in a 1920s building on Christopher Street, an iconic thoroughfare that’s home to several landmarks, businesses and historic spaces associated with the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

“This new taproom on Christopher Street reclaims the masculine identity of a West Village saloon to celebrate voices of women and LGBTQ+ communities in the Village, all while serving Talea’s popular sour brews in an elevated, vibrant space,” said Alda Ly Architecture (ALA).

Bar with built-in seating on the left and counter on the right
Bright hues chosen by ALA for the space include yellow for tiles, green seat backs and red dining chairs

Flooded with natural light thanks to large windows along the street facade, the main space is anchored by a purple-fronted bar with a curved white quartz countertop in one corner.

Behind, numerous beer taps are mounted onto a yellow-tiled partition, while glassware and cans are displayed on shelves above.

View towards an exposed brick wall with seating in front
Exposed brick and stone floors allude to a saloon-style aesthetic

The bar is lit by Junit oak pendants from Schneid Studio and brass Dottie sconces by Visual Comfort are mounted around the perimeter.

“We opened up the space to provide as much open area for the front dining room, and brought the bar front and centre to highlight the taps with their extensive selection of beers,” said ALA founder Alda Ly.

Dining area and bar counter with street windows behind
The taproom was designed to celebrate its location in the West Village, which has played an important role in LGBTQ+ history

“We wanted the bar to be a welcoming beacon for all people in the neighborhood,” she added.

The other side features built-in, stained-oak seating and small circular tables against an exposed brick wall.

Brick-wrapped room with a skylight over a large table
Behind the bar is The Revolution Room, intended for larger groups to gather

Pale green backrests and muted red Scroll dining chairs from Industry West continue the interior’s bright colour palette, which is also echoed in the works by local artists displayed on the walls.

“It was important to us to capture the spirit of Talea in a space that felt elevated but also very warm and welcoming,” said ALA project director Marissa Feddema.

Past the bar is a more intimate space called The Revolution Room, designed for groups of eight to 10 people to “scheme, hang and gather” according to the team.

A large table sits below a Nuura Miira 8 Oval chandelier that’s suspended from a skylight, and more brickwork is exposed to add to the saloon-like vibe.

Dimly lit room with dark walls and colourful furniture
At the back is the Snug, a cosy space furnished with jewel-tone pieces

Further back still, patrons will find the Snug – a much darker and cosier room decorated with jewel-toned furniture, navy limewash painted walls and a vintage fireplace mantle.

The moody bathrooms are adorned with images of prominent local residents and gender activists through the years, further emphasising the neighbourhood’s importance to the LGBTQ+ community.

Bathroom with dark blue tiles, paintings on the walls and an oval mirror above a sink
Images of prominent local residents and gender activists are displayed in the moody bathrooms

The West Village is packed with bars and restaurants, from upscale dining spots like Cecchi’s to casual cocktail places like Donna.

Close by, in the Union Square area, ALA has previously designed the interior for a doctor’s office and clinic with earthy and homey details.

The photography is by Brooke Holm.


Project credits:

Architect and interior designer: ALA (Alda Ly, Marissa Feddema, Sheridan Treadwell, Marlee Anderson)
MEP engineer: Tan Engineering
General contractor: Aerial Design & Build

The post ALA draws on West Village history for Talea taproom interiors appeared first on Dezeen.

2024 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato Review

PROS:

  • Stellar all-weather performance
  • Dramatic styling
  • Amazing sound

CONS:

  • Terrible rearward visibility
  • No more Corsa mode
  • The cost

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR’S QUOTE:

A beautiful all-weather supercar, a true joy in inclement conditions, and a hell of a lot of fun even when the roads are dry and smooth.

The Huracan is getting on a bit. Now entering its 10th year of production, it’s not quite as long in the tooth as the venerable Aventador became before it was finally replaced last year, but it’s getting there.

To keep things feeling fresh, the Huracan formula must keep tweaking and extending. Typically, Lamborghini does this by slapping letters like S, SV, and SVJ to its cars, dialing up the power and asking price all the while. The Sterrato, though, is something new, something different, and, as it turns out, something extraordinary.

The concept

The Huracan Sterrato is, quite simply, the ultimate off-road Lamborghini. Sure, the Urus has more ground clearance and would surely be better for climbing up a rocky trail, but the rest of the time it offers little in terms of Lamborghini feel and flare. There was also the LM002 SUV of the 1980s. That thing was a true off-road beast, but having piloted one around Northern Italy, I can tell you that when it comes to actual driving enjoyment, there’s not much to be had.

Meanwhile, the Sterrato looks and drives like a true Lamborghini, just one that’s had a few subtle additions and enhancements to ensure that the fun doesn’t stop when the asphalt does.

That starts with the suspension, which raises the car by 44 mm. Part of that lift is helped by the tread on a set of chunky Bridgestone Dueler AT002 tires mounted to 19-inch wheels. Five wheels, as it happens, with the car you see here outfitted with an optional spare mounted to the roof. That, though, is one option that I can’t recommend against strongly. The Sterrato, you see, doesn’t come with a jack, so even if you get a flat, you’ll have no way to change that wheel.

The engine, the Huracan’s brilliant 610-horsepower 5.2-liter V10, comes with top-mounted air intake, which not only looks fantastic but should help the engine suck in a little less grit on a dusty rally trail.

The rest of the changes are more on the lifestyle side, as ever, “style” being the most important part. The Sterrato comes with a pair of permanently affixed roof rails, to which you can mount crossbars and put whatever accessories you like. The car you see here came into my life with a top cargo basket of sorts, but given my wintery testing, a ski rack would have been more appropriate.

Chunky, bolted-on fender flares at every corner add stance and aggression, while some light underbody protection should keep gravel and the like from damaging that aluminum and composite chassis.

The overall shape and appearance of the Huracan isn’t much impacted. It looks essentially the same as it ever did, just slightly angrier and, most importantly, more ready for adventure.

Interior

On the inside, Sterrato-specific changes are few. Lamborghini offers a pair of all-weather, rubber floor mats that fit perfectly and extend up the sides of the Huracan’s microfiber-lined interior. They’re a must-have if you’ll be braving inclement conditions.

But otherwise, it’s much the same interior as we’ve seen elsewhere in the Huracan. Alcantara is the material of choice, feeling luxurious and looking great, especially with the contrasting yellow stitching and the lurid seatbelts to match. The attention to detail here is impressive, and while many will find the styling a bit excessive, it’s absolutely on-point for a Lamborghini.

The Huracan was recently updated with a new touchscreen interface that is simple but effective. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are on offer, but only wired. There’s also Alexa in here if you have an active Amazon account.

More importantly are the various telemetry screens on offer, including a new one for the Sterrato that shows off-road angle information, plus GPS coordinates, just perfect for when you’re really going out there. I found the differential display far more interesting, showing in real-time where the Huracan is sending its power, front-to-rear and side-to-side. As much of my testing was done in low-grip situations, it was a never-ending source of entertainment to see the flow of torque.

While entertaining to watch, you won’t need to spend much time stabbing at that touchscreen. Most of the essential driving controls are right on the steering wheel. Your left thumb controls the turn signals plus flashing or toggling the high beams. On the right, you’ll find the windshield wiper button.

The mode toggle is on the bottom, customized for the Sterrato. Strada is the default mode on top, followed by the racier Sport, and then Rally, a new dedicated, low-grip, high-performance mode that is the hallmark of this car. The final controls within reach are the column-mounted shift paddles, made of metal and standing proud behind the wheel.

While most inputs are on the wheel, the Huracan still has plenty of physical controls elsewhere, including a row of plastic toggles that run above the touchscreen and that iconic, crimson ENGINE START/STOP button in the center console lurking under a plastic protector. Flip that up, stab the button, and everything changes.

Ignition

The Sterrato’s V10 is situated just about a foot behind the driver’s right ear, so when it spins into life, you absolutely know it.

However, to enjoy the engine’s sound, you need to toggle to Sport mode, which opens up the exhaust and adds a fair bit of bass to the experience.

In fact, you’re better off avoiding Strada mode almost entirely. The Sterrato’s default drive mode is extremely, oddly tame. It’s always trying to run you a gear or two higher in the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission than you might like and feels quite reluctant to downshift. It also enables the somewhat annoying engine start/stop feature (which you can quickly disable if you like). Finally, it’s all too eager to drop the V10 down to an inline five-cylinder whenever you’re light on the throttle.

Driven in this way, I managed 15.1 mpg during my testing, which is quite reasonable for a 600-plus hp car. Indeed, that’s precisely why that mode exists. But if you want an engaging drive, step on up to Sport.

In Sport, everything just feels better. The shifts are rougher than before, but they’re lightning-quick and exactly where you want them to be. The exhaust sounds better, the engine is more responsive, and the Sterrato just feels ready to play.

However, it’s in Rally mode when things get wild. This new mode was designed to provide a much more playful experience in low-grip situations, allowing the Sterrato to spin up its wheels with more aggression than would normally be beneficial for a high-grip situation like the Corsa mode was designed for, which is found on other Huracans.

In Rally, the Sterrato is happy to let you let loose, not cutting power for me even when all four wheels were spinning wildly on an icy surface. It did cut power when I made larger steering inputs, being somewhat selective in how much counter-steering was allowed before it decided I needed some help. But it certainly didn’t ruin the fun.

I do, though, lament the loss of the Corsa mode. While the Rally mode is a good trade, it’s a shame you can’t have both. After all, though its suspension is softer, with a proper set of tires the Sterrato would still be a wonderful track day toy.

Regarding the tires, the Sterrato’s Dueler AT002s are rated for mud and snow, but certainly seem better suited for the former. While I wasn’t able to test that condition, I did spend lots of time amid wintery stuff with the Sterrato you see here. The tires didn’t provide the confidence offered by a dedicated snow tire, especially in more icy conditions, but they delivered plenty of grip to have fun. Most importantly, when they gave up that grip, they did so in a clean, predictable manner.

Options and pricing

The Huracan Sterrato starts at $273,177, plus a $3,695 destination charge and a $2,100 gas guzzler tax. The car you see here had a suite of mostly cosmetic options, including $9,800 for the lovely Giallo Inti paint and $7,600 for the sports seats.

It doesn’t take long to add another six figures onto the price of your Sterrato, with this one costing $348,649 in total, but that’s the name of the game with a car like this.

The Sterrato’s performance, however, is anything but predictable. It’s a beautiful all-weather supercar, a true joy in inclement conditions, and a hell of a lot of fun even when the roads are dry and smooth. It’s even more comfortable to drive than a regular Huracan and much less likely to dig its nose into the slightest inclines, too.

It’s the complete package, and while you’ll certainly have to pay for it, it feels very much worth every penny.

The post 2024 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato Review first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vurpas Architectes transforms French market with "childlike quality" into primary school

Eugenie Brazier primary school by Vurpas Architectes

French studio Vurpas Architectes has converted a 1960s market building to create Eugénie Brazier, a primary school and nursery in Lyon.

Eugénie Brazier is built around the long structure of the old wholesale market and features perforated brickwork and a neutral colour palette that draws on the existing building.

To accommodate a nursery as well as a 15-class primary school, a matching extension has also been added.

Eugenie Brazier primary school by Vurpas Architectes
Vurpas Architectes has converted a market building to create the Eugénie Brazier school

“The project is based on the continuity of the old hall and an extension that precisely matches the existing structure, using its compositional lines and constructive principles to create a new whole,” Vurpas Architectes told Dezeen.

“Composing with an ‘already there’, even though it was far removed from its new purpose – early childhood education – made it possible to go beyond the program. That’s the magic of rehabilitation,” the studio continued.

Eugénie Brazier is designed to fit into the gridded structure of the 1960s building, which is divided into a series of six-metre-wide bays.

School in a converted market building in France
Perforated brickwork features throughout the building

“If you shift your perspective, this repetitive structure with its playful platforms, takes on a rather childlike quality,” the studio explained.

“The very rigid grid framework of the market layout gives the programme a very clear, obvious distribution and an internal organisation the children can easily understand.”

Eugenie Brazier primary school in Lyon
The school has a gridded structure

With a rhythmic concrete structure, the facade expresses the school’s gridded design. A mix of light-coloured brickwork and floor-to-ceiling windows fill the spaces between.

Long scalloped roofs top the school as well as canopies that extend from either side, sheltering semi-outdoor walkways spanning its length.

School in Lyon in a converted market building by Vurpas Architectes
Scalloped roofs top the building and shelter outdoor spaces

The nursery occupies five bays, positioned at one end of the ground floor in the original building. It is bordered by its own playground and accessed by a private entrance.

Inside, the nursery is decorated with a light, neutral colour palette and features white-painted walls as well as timber beams that line the ceilings.

A set of preschool classrooms beside the nursery is decorated in the same way. Here, an existing loading platform in the building has been converted into a large sheltered play area.

Ten primary school classrooms are arranged across the first floor of the existing structure, with links to a rooftop playground.

Eugenie Brazier primary school in Lyon by Vurpas Architectes
Eugénie Brazier contains a nursery and a 15-class primary school

Perpendicular to the 1960s building, Vurpas Architectes has added an extension to hold the school’s communal spaces. This includes a dining hall, medical room and caretakers’ housing, as well as a spacious double-height gymnasium lined with timber battens.

“The extension was totally inspired by the existing building, taking all its principles and adapting them to the additional uses to be accommodated here – large dining and sports rooms,” Vurpas Architectes explained.

Rooftop playground at the Eugenie Brazier school in Lyon
There is an outdoor dining area

Large semi-outdoor spaces including a covered outdoor dining area have been added as part of the extension, set within a concrete structure decorated with brick infill.

Other outdoor spaces include a sunken courtyard, which is designed to open up the basement of the existing building.

Interior of the Eugenie Brazier school by Vurpas Architectes
The interiors have a neutral colour palette

“The transformation of a former basement into a ‘lower level’ opening onto a new planted English courtyard provided additional space,” said Vurpas Architectes.

“The program was thus de-densified on the upper floors, and a bright, sunny roof courtyard was added to complement the shadier courtyard at the heart of the block.”

Other buildings for education recently featured on Dezeen include a colourful school added to a historic Detroit college and a rural Tanzanian school that uses local materials.

The photography is by Vladimir de Mollerat du Jeu.

The post Vurpas Architectes transforms French market with “childlike quality” into primary school appeared first on Dezeen.

Eight offbeat homes with indoor slides

Kyiv apartment by KI Design Studio

A slide that doubles as a bookshelf in a South Korean house and a swooping mirrored tunnel that descends the four levels of a New York apartment feature in our latest lookbook of homes with interior slides.

Typically designed for children, slides are smooth, sloped structures commonly found in playgrounds.

Architects and interior designers have borrowed the concept and placed the structures in homes to either replace or complement traditional staircases and incorporate a sense of fun for children and adults alike.

Here, we have collected eight projects on Dezeen that demonstrate ways in which slides can transform a living space.

This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks featuring chequerboard flooring, immersive saunas and contemporary homes where ruins reveal layers of the past.


Walker house in Toronto, Canada, by Reflect Architecture
Photo by Riley Snelling

Walker, Canada, by Reflect Architecture

Local studio Reflect Architecture renovated this Toronto family house, called Walker, by twisting a sky-blue tunnelled slide through its centre.

Connecting the basement level to the ground floor, the slide was inserted to incorporate natural light and add a sense of playfulness to the lower level.

Find out more about Walker ›


Serra Residence in Brazil
Photo by Maíra Acayaba

Serra Residence, Brazil, by Marcelo Couto and Rodrigo Oliveira

This cantilevered Brazilian house in Fazenda da Grama, São Paulo, features two staircases with smooth wooden slides built adjacent to their steps.

The back-lit slides drop down to the home’s underground level.

Find out more about Serra Residence ›


Apartment with a slide in Kyiv
Photo courtesy of KI Design Studio

Kyiv apartment, Ukraine, by KI Design Studio

KI Design Studio added an undulating silver slide to this Kyiv apartment, designed to encourage fun in an otherwise conventional home.

Functioning as a replacement staircase, the slide descends from the top storey and winds through the neutral-hued kitchen, finishing in the living room.

Find out more about this Kyiv apartment ›


House in Nakameguro
Photo by Shinichi Tanaka

House in Nakameguro, Japan, by Level Architects

House in Nakameguro is a three-storey dwelling in Tokyo with a staircase that wraps it on one side and a slide that encircles the other.

The occupants can decide which way to descend the home, designed by Level Architects to include bright and smooth interiors that create intimate nooks.

Find out more about House in Nakameguro ›


Skyhouse, USA, by David Hotson and Ghislaine Vinas
Photo by Eric Laignel

Skyhouse by David Hotson and Ghislaine Viñas

Architect David Hotson and interior designer Ghislaine Viñas collaborated to design Skyhouse – a New York apartment through which a stainless steel slide snakes and plummets four storeys.

The structure is characterised by a striking mirrored surface, which creates a distinctive tubular sculpture as well as a mode of travelling downstairs.

Find out more about Skyhouse ›


Slide staircase in townhouse by XTH-Berlin
Photo courtesy of XTH-Berlin

Townhouse B14, Germany, by XTH-Berlin

Sloping pinewood floors act as slides in this angular Berlin townhouse designed by architecture studio XTH-Berlin.

Positioned next to chunky steps, the slides connect staggered floors throughout the building, which contains bedrooms housed in slanted concrete volumes on the first and third levels.

Find out more about Townhouse B14 ›


Panorama House
Photo by Huh Juneul

Panorama House, South Korea, by Moon Hoon

Seoul studio Moon Hoon slotted a timber slide into a combined staircase and bookshelf in this South Korean home.

Designed for a family in North Chungcheong Province, the different levels of Panorama House are dedicated to different residents. The ground floor belongs to the children and includes the playful wooden structure.

Find out more about Panorama House ›


NarrowMa House
Photo by Brice Pelleshi

MaHouse, France, by The Very Many

This narrow house in Strasbourg, France, is made up of stacked, slightly rotated irregular volumes.

Inside, New York studio The Very Many inserted a subtle, slim slide along the edge of the staircase between the ground and middle level to offer children an alternative way of moving around the property, which is characterised by a series of translucent glass walls.

Find out more about MaHouse ›

This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks featuring chequerboard flooring, immersive saunas and contemporary homes where ruins reveal layers of the past.

The post Eight offbeat homes with indoor slides appeared first on Dezeen.

Tactile materials "accentuate the value of shadows" in Bolívar House

Kitchen of Bolívar House in Barcelona by Juan Gurrea Rumeu of Gr-os

Spanish architect Juan Gurrea Rumeu used a palette of warm, textural materials and carefully positioned voids to create atmospheric living spaces inside this house he designed for himself and his wife in Barcelona.

Rumeu and his wife, the Madrid-born artist Beatriz Dubois, decided to move to the architect’s home city for work after living for several years in Paris.

Exterior of Bolívar House
Bolívar House takes up a narrow site on Barcelona’s Carrer de Bolívar

They purchased a site occupied by a derelict storage building in the Vallcarca district that was affordable due to its northern aspect, narrow proportions and busy urban context.

Bolívar House is located on the Carrer de Bolívar and is surrounded by buildings from various eras, ranging from early 20th-century art nouveau houses to industrial workshops and 1970s apartment blocks.

Entrance of house in Barcelona by Juan Gurrea Rumeu of Gr-os
Three square openings animate its street-facing facade

In this chaotic and energetic environment, Gurrea Rumeu’s practice Gr-os – working with local architects Mercè Badal and Teresa Rumeu – sought to create a restful retreat defined by its considered use of space and light.

“Despite its complicated urban setting, surrounded by taller buildings and heavy traffic, the interior atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful,” Gurrea Rumeu told Dezeen.

“The position and scale of openings frames views and curates intimacy and light.”

Wood-panelled kitchen in Bolivar House
Dark wood was used throughout to create a sense of calm

The building itself comprises a monolithic grey box punctured by three square openings, which animate its street-facing elevation while defining views from within.

A concrete plinth becomes a column that supports a visible steel lintel, which also acts as a recessed channel to hold utility cables as they pass across the simple frontage.

Wood-clad kitchen inside house in Barcelona by Juan Gurrea Rumeu of Gr-os
One of the building’s structural steel columns is left exposed on each level

The exposed beam provides a subtle ornamental detail that references the facade composition and, in particular, the decorative frieze found on a traditional residence across the street.

The house’s exterior is rendered using a textured stucco that evokes rustic Catalan properties called masias. According to the architect, this finish adds a textural element to the otherwise minimal elevation that recalls an artist’s brushstrokes.

The dwelling shares its long and narrow site with a multi-storey apartment building, in which Gurrea Rumeu and Dubois were able to add a studio on the basement level.

The studio is visible across a central courtyard separating it from the home’s kitchen and dining area, which also looks onto the lush tropical planting through a full-height opening.

At the front of the property, a double-height concrete volume containing the garage and a stairwell provides an acoustic barrier between the living areas and the street.

Three bedrooms and the main living room are accommodated on the first and second floors, with the bedrooms at the rear overlooking the tranquil courtyard.

Kitchen looking out at patio of Bolívar House
The kitchen opens onto a small courtyard

Despite being a north-facing house, the design is not focused on capturing as much natural light as possible, Gurrea Rumeu explained, but rather on emphasising the moody atmosphere through careful material choices.

“We decided to use honest and expressive materials which are pleasant for the senses and accentuate the value of shadows,” the architect pointed out.

“In-situ concrete walls, dark walnut floors, white marble and glazed tiles create a rich atmosphere in which subtle changes of light become apparent throughout the day and the seasons.”

Living room of house in Barcelona by Juan Gurrea Rumeu of Gr-os
Monolithic wooden staircases feature in the living room and the foyer

Gurrea Rumeu also used simple architectural interventions to amplify the sensorial experience within the home, with voids and openings allowing sunlight to illuminate the spaces in intriguing ways.

Monolithic wooden staircases located in the entrance lobby and living room follow the home’s two main axes and add complexity to the circulation. Their bold presence helps to emphasise the volume of these double-height spaces.

The majority of the building’s structure is left exposed, with services and false ceilings concentrated towards the centre of the plan.

Chair under skylight in Bolívar House
Concrete ceilings add a brutalist touch

A central concrete core conceals the upper flights of stairs and supports the floor slabs, while one of the structural steel columns is left exposed on each level as a nod to the building’s construction.

The columns become a feature in their respective rooms, becoming thinner higher up in the building as the load reduces.

The property contains a limited and carefully curated selection of furniture including vintage pieces, bespoke elements and classic designs chosen for their special significance to the owners.

Bathroom of house in Barcelona by Juan Gurrea Rumeu of Gr-os
Tiles complete the home’s tactile material palette

Gurrea Rumeu received his master’s from the Royal College of Art in London before completing his Professional Practice diploma at the AA School of Architecture. He worked for firms in Beijing, Paris and Barcelona before establishing his own studio in 2020.

Other recently completed homes in Barcelona include La Clara by CRÜ, which is set inside a former public laundry, and a brick extension to a 19th-century terrace house by H Arquitectes.

The photography is by Max Hart Nibbrig.

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From Clutter to Clarity: Reinventing the Art of Stationery

Having all the right tools is crucial for unleashing creativity, whether you’re seeking inspiration in a coffee shop, a shared space, or anywhere else. This calls for a significant level of discipline to select a great stationery set to keep your creative flow uninterrupted. The Bento Jot from NOOE may be the perfect solution. The concept is borrowed from the Japanese bento – a single-portion home-packed meal or for take-out, with a history dating back to the Kamakura period. Modern bento boxes have evolved from simple packed meals to more elaborate arrangements with separate compartments for different dishes, emphasizing aesthetic presentation. This is where the Bento Jot shines. They’ve distilled the essential elements of a bento box, a cornerstone of Japanese culture, to create a tool designed to help you excel at what you do best – nurturing your creativity at work.

Designers: Neetica Pande and Piyush Suri

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting at $99 $189 ($90 off). Hurry, only 3/106 left!

12-Item Stationery Collection

Just as a traditional bento box offers various dishes, Bento Jot presents a unique 3-layer stationery set inspired by the bento box and the simplicity of Scandinavian design. It combines a sleek design with distinctive functionality. Composed of 12 carefully designed stationery items, Bento Jot uses premium materials to enhance your desk space and inspire creativity. The design philosophy behind Bento Jot, deeply rooted in the principles of quality, sustainability, and a cohesive aesthetic, reflects the serene and clutter-free ethos of Scandinavian design, as explained by Neetica Pande, Co-founder and Chief Design Officer of NOOE:

“We love stationery, however, the main challenges we saw with most available stationery today were poor quality and the lack of standardization. We envisioned a collection that has a cohesive aesthetic and performs exceptionally well, while still being designed sustainably. We wanted to move from cheap-plasticky to a more emotive-tactile experience,” Pande elaborates.

Every contour, edge, corner and part of the Bento Jot has been molded to be the perfect fit for the creative in you.

This approach to stationery design, focusing on quality and tactile experience, reflects a deeper understanding of the user’s needs and the environmental impact of products. It emphasizes NOOE’s commitment to redefining stationery with an eye for detail and sustainability, making Bento Jot a tool and a statement of purpose and creativity.

The three layers of Bento Jot include the Øver layer, where the Aluminum pen and Monograph Journal are stored. In the Mid layer, a high-quality leather organizer is available for keeping necessary items. The Base layer neatly organizes desk essentials to prevent loss: Aluminum ruler, Blok Measuring Tape, Dipped Pencil, Sticky Note, Logo Pins, Gluestick, Geo Eraser, and Draft Scissor. All items feature authentic designs explicitly made for Bento Jot.

Beneath the essentials lies the mid layer, a dedicated space for the Bento Jot organizer – the vegan leather carrying case that makes the act of carrying your stationery effortless with its expandable features and adjustable holders.

As you explore each element of this smart stack and store system, the tactile feel of premium materials instantly conveys quality. The design adheres to a singular theme: minimalism. Bento Jot is crafted from premium recycled materials, utilizing 95% less plastic than other stationery options available on the market.

The shell is the sum of all parts, so it’s delightful to see that every detail has been carefully considered, such as the rubbers placed at the bottom to prevent scratches, soft die-cut compartments, and the interchangeable lids for customization. The “Forest Green” and “Carbon Black” color options are exclusive and only available on Kickstarter.

Bento Jot’s innovative design encourages users to maintain an organized tableau, fostering undistracted and clutter-free creativity.

Now, let’s examine the individual tools to understand their advantages. They provide everything you need for your desk, reminiscent of a deliciously organized bento box.

Crafted from solid anodized aluminum, the pen’s body is resilient and immune to scratches, maintaining its pristine appearance over time.

The Blade Aluminum Pen, crafted from solid anodized aluminum, offers durability, ensuring it won’t scratch if accidentally dropped. Its magnetic cap closure adds convenience, and refilling with the Schmidt Roller 888 ink filler is a simple task when the ink runs low.

At the heart of the collection lies the Monograph Journal, featuring natural white, 120-gram paper with a dot grid and edge recess for a seamless writing experience. Every page is thoughtfully numbered, and the flat open binding allows for easy writing, making it an indispensable companion for personal reflections and professional endeavors. The journal’s durability is matched by its sustainability, with a cover crafted from cross-grain recycled polyurethane, embodying the collection’s commitment to eco-friendly design.

The dot-grid Monograph Journal

Complementing the journal is the Attaché Organizer, a compact yet expansive tool designed to streamline your workspace. Its expandable front pocket adapts to your needs, while the 100% cotton herringbone lining adds a touch of sophistication. The organizer’s recycled cross-grain leather exterior speaks to the collection’s sustainable ethos and adds a layer of durable elegance.

For precision tasks, the Al Ruler and Blok Measuring Tape offer unmatched accuracy. The solid aluminum machined ruler boasts dual units for versatile measurements. At the same time, the Blok Measuring Tape features a dark mode measuring strip, dual units, and a lock & release mechanism, ensuring precision and ease of use in various contexts.

With its HB graphite and dual-color dip, the Dipped Pencil infuses creativity into every stroke, making it a vibrant addition to any desk. This is complemented by the Sticky Note set, utilizing high-quality 3M paper in a check design, perfect for organizing thoughts and tasks with style and efficiency.

Adding a touch of personalization to the collection, the Logo Pins can secure up to 12 papers, offering a functional yet stylish way to keep your documents organized. The Geo Eraser, with its slant cut and dual-color design, combines functionality with a modern aesthetic, ensuring that even corrections contribute to the creative process.

Rounding off the collection is the Draft Scissor, a solid MS tool with a matt black finish designed for everyday use. Its durability and sleek design make it a staple in any office environment, embodying the Bento Jot collection’s fusion of style, functionality, and sustainability.

Together, these items form a cohesive set that not only enhances productivity and creativity but also brings a sense of harmony and order to your workspace, inspired by the minimalist elegance of Scandinavian design and the practical beauty of a well-arranged bento.

The Bento Jot set redefines stationery by tackling desk clutter and elevating personal esteem through its thoughtful design and premium materials. It organizes and beautifies workspaces and boosts users’ morale, making each written word feel valuable. This transformation extends beyond the physical to alter perceptions, ensuring users’ ideas and efforts are esteemed. Additionally, its sustainable, adaptable design aligns with the modern consumer’s preference for minimalist, eco-conscious products, enhancing its appeal. Ultimately, Bento Jot is more than an organizational tool; it’s an emblem of mindful living and personal expression, indispensable for those seeking to enhance their productivity and creative space.

Click Here to Buy Now: Starting at $99 $189 ($90 off). Hurry, only 3/106 left!

The post From Clutter to Clarity: Reinventing the Art of Stationery first appeared on Yanko Design.

Service robot concept doubles as a chair and a tiny private office

Service robots are becoming more common these days, from cute mobile trays that deliver food to your table to large rolling boxes that carry your luggage for you. These robots definitely serve their purpose, and they’re often designed to look pleasing or even friendly, but lack a certain element of interaction that will help put humans more at ease with these mechanical assistants. Some designs try to put a figurative human face on these robots, without much effect, while others try to focus on usability and functionality instead. This concept design, however, goes back to the drawing board to determine the best form that a service robot could take. It turns out, we’ve been sitting on the answer all this time, literally.

Designer: Yunsoo Choi

For all the drama about how robots will be replacing humans in the future, there are already certain industries where service robots have indeed taken the place of flesh and blood workers, particularly in the hospitality industry. That said, most are only capable of performing very menial and mechanical tasks, far removed from the human-like androids of our imaginations and science fiction. More importantly, these robots feel as distant and as detached from our lives as the bags they carry. They lack the interactivity and personal connection that would make them indispensable parts of our lives.

This concept design for a service robot tries to provide that kind of interaction by turning the robot into something more than just that. It uses the chair as the inspiration for its design, a functional object that also provides comfort as well as a point of human interaction. But the robot does more than offer a comfortable place to sit on; it also creates a small bubble that becomes a tiny personal office space, at least if you’re the type that can do their job on a tablet.

That’s because this tablet is what triggers the transformation between a chair and a robot. It acts like the brain of the machine, though it’s also the robot’s “face” as well as its sole interface. It’s how you can get information, pay for your hotel stay, or order food, basically anything that involves actually requesting service. The tablet magnetically attaches to the robot’s arm and can be positioned at the most comfortable angle or height for use, including while sitting on the robot chair.

Aside from these, the design also includes the common functions of such a service robot, particularly when it comes to delivering items to customers or keeping their possessions. It can even disinfect these objects using UV light inside its body. But while the idea of a service robot that also functions as a chair sounds interesting on paper, it raises the question of comfort and safety, two factors that are critical for a piece of furniture like a chair. It definitely looks a little too high to sit on comfortably and functions more like a stool than a proper chair. The “office space” is also a bit of a stretch since there’s not much space to get anything done. Still, the idea deserves more exploration and refinement and could spark more designs for service robots that become space-efficient personal offices for the mobile workers of the future.

The post Service robot concept doubles as a chair and a tiny private office first appeared on Yanko Design.

This two-story pick-up rooftop tent gives you a vantage point to live and stargaze

The overlanding experience in your pick-up only gets better with an efficient and functional truck topper. And when that truck camper is a two-story complex with its own awning and touch of a button control; you can think, but won’t want to own anything else!

Inquisitive? Wild Land has come up with an interesting idea of Safari Camper, which is more than every day pick-up bed camper. After giving us the world’s first wireless remote-controlled rooftop tent, the Chinese overland product manufacturer has revealed the remote-controlled Safari Camper that rests on the truck bed and gives us a two-story tent to sleep and play on the press of an open button. Shutting it close is equally easy: Press close!

Designer: Wild Land

The Safari Camper is designed for the Chinese market and is already available there, state wise delivery is still in oblivion at the time of writing. That said, what intrigues an adventurer’s attention is the Safari Camper’s unique automatic lift system that opens from truck bed top to two stories to accommodate a few people easily. The lift is kicked into action from a keychain remote control – a little manual intervention is required to flip a few extensions – and you have a truck bed section and a high-perched rooftop tent above.

Of course, the kind of height the upper rooftop tent has, it is going to be somewhat vulnerable to the winds. But that little peril hasn’t stopped Wind Land from packing ample interior space here. The tent is accessed via a ladder from the pick-up bed and it has a 5.6-foot headroom extendable using the fold-out tent floor extensions on the front and back –pulled down manually – that increase sleeping space. The mesh windows in the tent offers 270-degree views, while the openable skylight lets you stargaze when the surroundings are engulfed in darkness.

The Safari Cruiser weighs about 250 kg, and rests on the top of the truck’s bed rails. When it’s closed it rests comfortably on the pick-up’s shell and can carry about 30 kg load of your adventure gear. At camp when you open it, in addition to the top tent, you have a second low tent below which doesn’t have much headroom and can be used as a kid’s room or for dining and lounging.

Interestingly, the top rooftop tent is laid with a 30W solar panel to power the LED lighting and lift system battery. Attached to the lower section is a 360-degree awning that provides shade from the sun and gives additional living space just outside, which can be fun at the beach or when fishing in the lake.

The post This two-story pick-up rooftop tent gives you a vantage point to live and stargaze first appeared on Yanko Design.