A mix of traditional master craftsmanship combined with the latest building design techniques have been effectively combined in this stunning property in the heart of the Cotswolds. Set in its own valley, it comprises a period cottage with a contemporary extension built into the hillside.

An impressive wall of glazing to one side of the build maximises the views across the countryside, giving a light, open feeling to the design.

However, at night, or when the property is empty, such a remote location can cause concerns about security, prompting the client to specify shutters on all the windows and entrances.

Naturally, when so much thought had gone into matching the old to the new buildings, the aesthetic design was of paramount importance. By choosing Equilux security shutters from Charter Global Ltd they could be intelligently concealed within the honey-coloured Cotswold stone and when lowered, the anodised shutters’ have a subtle matt silver finish which complements the natural choice of building materials.

Installed in the traditional manner at the time of build, the Equilux system incorporates a shutter within a structural lintel, providing an unobtrusive structurally integrated solution that still addresses the usual features of lintel design such as structural loadbearing, cold bridging and damp proofing, but has the added benefit of acting as a high security shutter.

The security shutters have been fully integrated into the property’s Building Management System and can be remotely controlled at the touch of a button.

The post Old meets new in the Cotswolds appeared first on Design Buy Build.

IQ Glass and Morgan Carn Partnership complete a sustainable bespoke house in Sussex AONB, dubbed the ‘James Bond Villain’ house.

The large bespoke home is built on the site of an old quarry, and takes inspiration for the plot’s previous use for the design. Morgan Carn Partnership explain “The design has evolved from the shapes and the angles of the bricks and glass shards that were deposited on the site while the old quarry was being backfilled.”

Large glass elevations within the brick elevation were a key design feature. Of particular note is the large 4m tall projecting window on the first floor. IQ Design Manager Tony Fuller says “The projecting window had to be fully engineered using 3D technology. The line and wind loadings on the glass had to be considered along with the outward leaning angle so that we could design the correct glass specification and fixing.”

The overall build was built under Passive House principles to ensure the exterior envelope was highly insulating. Thermal bridging was a key design consideration and glazing was triple glazed for enhanced Uw values.

www.iqglassuk.com

The post Paragraph 79 House in Sussex appeared first on Design Buy Build.

The sloping roof was removed to reduce the overall volume of the project. Eliminating the sloping roof offered a panoramic view of the surrounding nature. It provided the opportunity to connect the building with northern land at the upstream height via a bridge due to increased light in the northern rooms of the project. The height of the northern courtyard was lowered, and a grid screen was added to expand the terrace.

The main idea for overall building volume is the penetration and horizontal extension of the additional part into internal spaces. The box that has emerged from nature’s heart features green-blue tiles, which get their colour from the blue sky and green nature. This box welcomes the audience from the outer borders to the inner spaces and creates an opportunity for vertical connection in the project. In completing the final idea, the grid system of beams and columns on the project’s façade can beautifully frame the surrounding views. This porous grid, a shell, covers the entire building mass. A cover that delicately integrates the new cube into the existing building.

The project’s physical layout prioritizes public space views and is divided into four levels. The first level includes a parking area and a service box equipped with an elevator. The second level houses the janitor’s suite, engine room, and another service box with an elevator. The third level comprises bedrooms, a living room, a service box with public and shower facilities, a dressing room, stairs, and an elevator. The fourth level features a reception and dining room, kitchen, terrace, and another service box with public and dressing facilities, a stairwell, and an elevator.

Architects – AsNow Design & Construct
Photographs – Nimkat Studio – www.nimkatstudio.com

The post AsNow Design & Construct appeared first on Design Buy Build.

This paradigm shift in the market is underscored by a profound change: the value of luxury properties is increasingly intertwined with the reputation and craftsmanship of the architects behind them. The Starchitect Effect is now a defining force in Miami’s real estate narrative.

Among these architectural visionaries is the late Zaha Hadid, whose legacy endures through the One Thousand Museum. Resale prices for condos in this architectural masterpiece are reaching astonishing heights, peaking at $2,100 per square foot, showcasing the premium buyers are willing to pay for homes designed by starchitects. Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) has also left an indelible mark on Miami with the St. Regis Residences in Brickell. The trust associated with the RAMSA name plays a pivotal role in attracting affluent buyers, emphasizing the unique combination of celebrity allure and architectural brilliance embodied by starchitects.

The Price of Distinction

The allure of possessing a piece of architectural history crafted by a starchitect is unparalleled. The credibility and excellence associated with these esteemed architects elevate properties to a realm beyond the ordinary, fostering a luxury real estate market that thrives on exclusivity and prestige. The significant price disparity between starchitect-designed buildings and their non-starchitect counterparts is not merely a reflection of aesthetic appeal but also a manifestation of the perceived value and status that accompanies such prestigious ownership.

A City Transformed

Miami’s skyline, adorned with masterpieces from some of the world’s most revered architects, narrates a tale of a city standing at the crossroads of innovation and luxury. The city’s approval system, seemingly favoring these architectural wonders, not only enhances the urban landscape but also sets a global benchmark for luxury living. However, this spectacle comes at a cost, prompting inquiries about accessibility and the long-term implications for the city’s real estate market. As Miami evolves under the influence of these architectural icons, the unfolding narrative will reveal how this trend shapes the future of luxury living and urban development.

In essence, Miami’s luxury high-rise residential market serves as a vivid illustration of the convergence of architecture and real estate, creating spaces that are as much about living in art as they are about living luxuriously. The starchitect phenomenon, blending celebrity, artistry, and exclusivity, has not only reshaped the city’s skyline but also redefined the essence of investing in luxury real estate. As the city embraces this architectural renaissance, the legacy of starchitects like Peter Marino, Zaha Hadid, and Robert A.M. Stern continues to elevate Miami as a global symbol of luxury and innovation.

About Miami Luxury RE LLC:

Miami Luxury RE LLC is a renowned real estate agency based in Miami, Florida, specializing in luxury real estate properties. With a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to their clients, they have consistently set high standards in the industry. Their dedication to innovation and client satisfaction has earned them multiple awards, including the recent USA Property Awards 2023-2024 recognition, Winner of Best Luxury Real Estate Brokerage Awards in Florida By Luxury Lifestyle 2021, 2022 and 2023

About Luxury Lifestyle Awards

Luxury Lifestyle Awards is a global award selecting, recognizing, celebrating and promoting the best luxury goods and services all over the world. The goal of the company is to connect people with the best of luxury. LLA has evaluated more than 10 000 various goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries and analyzed the results to give you a TOP list of the best of the best in the world. Such world-renowned brands as Chanel, Dom Perignon, and Ferrari were proudly named winners. The victory brings companies status and recognition, global promotion and exposure to an entirely new market of customers.

For more information, please visit: https://luxurylifestyleawards.com/

The post The Landscape of Opulence: Starchitects Reshaping Miami’s Luxury Real Estate appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Partnering  with installer, Fairmitre Shropshire Windows and Conservatories, and fabricator, HWL, the new windows come from The Residence Collection’s R9 windows that provide elements of 19th century architectural design whilst also providing modern functionality and energy efficiency.

The range has A++ energy ratings with this double-glazed installation reaching a u-value of 1.2Wm2k as standard, resulting in optimal insulation and energy savings. The R9 collection is the original timber alternative window and they feature side hung and top hung casements as well as Georgian bars.

This collection is available in 23 colourways with this particular project choosing the popular sage green which has become one of The Residence Collection’s top five colour choices over the last 12 months. The installation was complete with Regal monkey tail Pewter Patina handles. The fully mechanical manufacturing method will ensure durability and strength through these windows’ life span.

Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager of The Residence Collection, commented, “Our sage green colourway has proved very popular, and this countryside home in Shropshire is the perfect example of how colour in windows can enhance a property while still being high-performing and energy-efficient.

“The Residence Collection would like to say a big thank you to our quality partnerships that make this premium design, manufacturing and installation service possible. In this region Fairmitre Shropshire Windows and Conservatories and HWL helped us to seamlessly deliver this property upgrade and we look forward to working alongside them again in the future.”

Paul Jones, Managing Director of Fairmitre Shropshire Windows and Conservatories, further commented, “This installation went extremely well and resources were made widely available with the support from The Residence Collection and HWL. Our showroom also offered a more personal touch to the beginning of the homeowner’s transformation, allowing them to pick out the sage green colourway from seeing a real-life, stunning example here.”

To find out more about The Residence Collection’s R9 collection, please visit:

https://www.residencecollection.co.uk/collections/r9/

The post The Residence Collection updates Shropshire home with trending sage green colourway appeared first on Design Buy Build.

The open plan layout allows the spaces to flow seamlessly. The core of the house is connected to the outdoor living spaces by floor-to-ceiling glass walls that curve around the main deck, allowing for views from and through the main living areas towards the open landscape. Deep overhangs frame the view and protect the interiors from the intense summer sun.

The new kitchen and dining areas spill onto the large deck, which then becomes an extension of the living space and connects the addition with the adjacent wing. Situated below the deck and sloping downhill, a separate guest suite is nestled into the hillside, affording breathtaking views, while maintaining privacy from the main house. This efficient and fully equipped unit has both a separate entry and a connection to the main house, allowing extended family or elderly parents to live on site while retaining as much independence as they like.

The original wing is now fully dedicated to bedroom suites. A new garage structure is folded into the Northern end of the hillside, transitioning the grade from the main house elevation to the orchard below.

The design of the building incorporates many passive and active sustainable design elements. The South and North facades are widely open to allow for passive solar heating in the winter and natural daylight year-round, while deep overhangs provide shade in the summer. Highly efficient spray foam insulation in the roof and wall systems offset heat gain in the summer and retains heat in winter. The roof orientation allows the project to integrate generous photovoltaic and hydronic solar panel arrays. Along with a rainwater irrigation system tied into the native landscape, this allows for the house to provide nearly all its energy and water needs. A post-occupancy survey has concluded that the inhabitants rarely use their heating and cooling equipment. The winter temperatures remain comfortable with minimal added heat, and they can passively ventilate the house in the summer months to mostly avoid using their air conditioning system despite the often scorching temperatures. Photovoltaic panels can produce enough electricity for home usage and all electric vehicles.

 Technical sheet

Lot Area: 69,000 square feet (6410 sq m)

Floor Area: 6,600 square feet (613 sq m)

Building Type: Residential

Year: 2022
Design Team: Ivan Terry, Alex Terry, Naomi Hansen

Structural Design: Advanced Engineering, Justen Peek

Construction: 361 Construction, Sasha Saratlija

Photo credit: Bruce Damonte

terryandterryarchitecture.com/

The post Diablo House By Terry & Terry Architecture appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Architecture: Sofiia Zhurko, Olena Oliinyk

Location: Plyuty village, Ukraine

Collection name: MILO360 taps + electric bathrobe warmer EQUILIBRIO + STEM ACCESSORIES + JET CLEANER + HYDROPLATE

Photo Credit: Andrey Bezuglov

Project description:

 3L Residence concerns the renovation of three private houses located in the picturesque village of Plyuty, Kiev region. The aim of the project is to meet the needs of modern life in a country house where dynamism and functionality of spaces, capable of merging with light and nature, become a distinctive feature.

Each individual residence is spread over a single floor and consists of a large living room and kitchen with dining area,

lounge area with outdoor swimming pool, three bedrooms each with own bathroom and dressing rooms, a large study and an apartment for the staff with separate entrance. Natural light becomes a design priority and aesthetic protagonist, so much so that the walls of the house are reduced to a minimum, 70% of the habitable surface is occupied by panoramic windows.

The interior design provides for the distinction between the various rooms through the decoration of vertical walls with different finishes: quartzite and marble panels stand out in the living room and in the master bedroom, a bas-relief in a natural tone characterizes the kitchen area, a unique work of Ukrainians master craftsmen.

A real design jewel is the master bedroom with walk-in closet, illuminated by the large windows to the south and east. The elegance of the Light Gold finish of the CEA taps and accessories gives value to bathroom environments.

Technical characteristics:

 MILO360

MIL35XS + MEN05XS

Washbasin mixer and shelf with Delrin® toothbrush holder and dispenser in stainless steel in Light Gold satin finish.

 EQUILIBRIO

EQB22XS

Electric bathrobe warmer in stainless steel in Light Gold satin finish.

 STEM ACCESSORIES + JET CLEANER + HYDROPLATE

STE05XS + PUL06XS + FRE227XS

Composition in AISI 316L stainless steel with roll holder, toilet brush holder, bidet spray and pair of buttons for WC flush in Light Gold satin finish.

www.ceadesign.it

Press Office and P.R.

Gagliardi & Partners

Tel. +39049657311

Email: gagliardi@gagliardi-partners.it

The post 3L RESIDENCE – LIGHT FOR SHARING appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Waldens Farm is a striking four-bed property located in beautiful West Grimstead with views of the surrounding picturesque landscape. Accoya timber cladding from International Timber features on the exterior of the house alongside traditional stone and contemporary glass, resulting in a truly stunning build.

With a strong farming past to the area, the site’s rural context was a key factor in material selection. The cladding supplied by International Timber ties the new house into its agricultural setting and the existing barns and outbuildings on site.

The local Jewson branch worked in close collaboration with Adam Knibb Architects and the builder to design and specify 125mm and 150mm of Accoya, cutting it into three different widths. This was then used for the external cladding of the building to create the biophilic aesthetic and continuous inside-outside connection that the architect wanted to achieve.

A counter batten was placed behind the Accoya cladding to maintain ventilation and drainage of any water and condensation. Insect mesh was also fitted to prevent insects and other pests entering into the cavity or gaps around the cladding or ventilation gaps. In addition, International Timber supplied Accoya for use on the ceiling inside the property as well as to create two doors and door frames.

Jon East, Timber Development Manager at the Jewson Whiteparish branch, said: “Jewson was successful in securing the contract to supply the Accoya cladding for Waldens Farm due to our close working relationship with both the client/builder and the team at International Timber Parkend. The team there were, as always, really helpful and easy to work with.”

Bernie Roberts, National Product Manager for Cladding Solutions at International Timber, added: “We are thrilled to be chosen as a supplier for this incredible build. Timber cladding is often specified for self-build projects due to its aesthetic qualities, biophilic design, natural durability and ease of working, and this project was no different.

“Accoya is a great sustainable wood, which is a huge factor as to why it was chosen here. It also has many other great benefits, including the fact it is incredibly durable, has a 50-year above-ground warranty, and is trusted not to visibly swell, shrink or distort, with minimal movement. The fact it also provides a fantastic finish is another great reason to always opt for Accoya in projects such as these.”

For more information on International Timber and its Accoya range, visit www.internationaltimber.com. To learn more about Adam Knibb Architects, visit www.adamknibbarchitects.com.

For further information please contact: Natalie Isherwood, Edson Evers – natalie.isherwood@edsonevers.com   Lauryn Mellor, Edson Evers – lauryn.mellor@edsonevers.com

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL TIMBER

International Timber offers an unrivalled depth and breadth of timber and timber products to the construction, joinery and manufacturing sectors. We specialise in the import, processing and distribution of softwoods and hardwoods from around the world to offer our customers throughout the UK excellent choice, value, availability and service.

For more details about International Timber, visit the website www.internationaltimber.com  or follow International Timber on LinkedIn.

The post International Timber provides sustainable Accoya® cladding for contemporary farmhouse appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Modern cottage for family recreation offers relaxation and peace in the woods near Prague.

Description

In spring 2020, a refined couple came to our studio with a vision of a modest house that would provide them with a peaceful retreat in nature, an escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of the city. A comfortable place where the trees rustle instead of the trams and contact with nature is immediate.

The area they have chosen for their cottage has a unique atmosphere. It is not a comfortable asphalt road that leads to the place, but a quite harsh road, which in itself transforms the perception. Further away from the worries of the big city, closer to nature, we switch to a different mode.

The local regulations defined the maximum building area and height of the building, limiting the client’s brief. The archetypal form of the cabin was chosen with respect to the built environment and its verticality emphasises the contrast between the stability of the earth and the freedom of the sky.

There are beautiful tall conifers in the surroundings which fascinated us and whose pattern is reflected in the facade. It is made up of dark aluminium shingles and its shape resembles a pinecone. The aluminium surface of the façade guarantees easy maintenance and durability and fulfills the essential requirement for practicality.
Belonging to nature is supported by the glass sliding surfaces that connect the living area of the interior with the surroundings and also wonderfully expand the feeling of space inside the cottage. The large windows not only bring a beautiful view, but also plenty of light for the investor, who enjoys painting in her cottage.

The brief was to create a space that exudes the cosiness and warmth of home. Therefore, oak was used extensively in the interior, specifically for the flooring, fireplace wall, dining table and chairs. The structural CLT spruce panels remained visible in the bedroom and staircase. This natural material brings a warm feeling of home to the interior and saves on tiling costs. CLT panels also have advantages in structural properties – the small structural depth allows for large spans and has a high load-bearing capacity. Their small thickness combined with good thermal insulation leads to a more spacious interior. The construction was completely designed and realized by 3AE, a company specialized in wooden buildings made of solid panels of Czech wood.

The main theme of the cottage is well-being and relaxation and the operational needs had to be subordinated to this. We integrated the kitchen into the living area so that it would act as a natural part of it. Therefore, we placed a bookcase above it, growing into the ceiling, and for the cabinet parts we chose a unifying oak wood motif with the same profile as the wall by the fireplace. The dining table was naturally incorporated between the kitchen cabinets.

The cottage is a synergy of contemporary design, respect for nature, and practical use of space. Even in a small area, it is possible to create a space for comfort, relaxation, and artistic creation.

Despite its miniature size, the original nearby cottage was a place where the owners felt content. So, when designing the new cottage, the owners had confidence from the beginning in a small space that was welcoming and cosy.

Materials

timber – the supporting structure of the house, windows
aluminium – facade and roof
stainless steel – chimney
oak – flooring
thermowood – facade and terrace

Products and Brands

CLT panels – Novatop, www.novatop-system.cz
windows – Značková okna, www.znackovaokna.cz
metal facade – PREFA, www.prefa.com
thermally treated wood – Lunawood, www.lunawood.com
moisture protection sensors – Senzomatic, www.senzomatic.com

About studio / author

Archicraft

The Prague architectural office archicraft, led by Tomáš Cieśla and Miroslav Krátký, has matured into a studio with a comprehensive practice. Its projects in the field of residential housing, offices and gastro operations, as well as the design of public spaces and buildings, are worthy of attention for the originality of the designs and because they do not submit to self-serving ego-elements, but accentuate Details, Emotions and Functionality. For fifteen years now, however, other letters of the alphabet have also been essential to them, such as Authorial input in the most inspiring solution; The solidity of interior elements designed to fit; Sensitivity to the client and his needs; Graphic articulation of the space promoting its visual legibility… and so we could go on to Z.

3AE

Is a Czech family-owned company specializing in individual architectural design, projection, and building of low-energy and passive houses. It deals with houses from the architectural study to the handover of the keys, including interior design and landscape architecture. 3AE builds houses from massive wooden panels, which are made in the Czech Republic from Czech wood. Solid wood is used as a decorative element in the interior. Structurally bold and modern buildings with large glazing are possible from this system. The company has been operating for 12 years and has built over 130 high-quality houses.

Publication Rules

Please, be so kind as to respect the rights of the authors and their work under the Author’s Act No 121/2000 Coll. and the Act No 89/2012 Coll., Civil Code.

When publishing, please include author credit. You can find it unabridged in the press kit of each project.

Photographs can be edited only in keeping with the intention of their author. You can do slight cropping of the pictures for the graphic layout purposes of your article without the author’s permission.
All photographs and texts are meant exclusively for the media registered on our website. These materials cannot be used for advertisement or advertorials without noticing the provider and without the authors’ permission.
Online publication of the photographs is free of charge.
For publishing in print magazines, the copyright fees for photographs depend on the rates of the publisher.
We do not take any responsibility for correctness and completeness of the copyright work in your publishing.

The post Archicraft Forest Cabin appeared first on Design Buy Build.

These are the distinctive features of La Casa Millerighe, the most recent renovation and interior design project by architect Valentina Autiero, founder of the eponymous architectural practice based in Vico Equense, Naples: the property in question is a residence with sea view of 100 m², formerly a vacation home to spend limited periods of time in, but now a family home for year-round daily living, located in the evocative context of the Sorrento peninsula.

On the first site visit, the living space proved to be ideal for a typical Mediterranean vacation home for rest and relaxation, conviviality and time spent in company: limited common living space, lots of beds and the integrated use of the large panoramic wrap-around terrace.

The presence of a square floor plan free on three of its four sides allowed for a total redistribution of the spaces with a strong and constant focus on the dynamic dialogue between the environments and the natural light they receive, an essential priority for their correct functional distribution in the new architectural and design context. The design thus tore up the old floor plan, delineating a space marked by fluid and interactive open-plan areas, where the customer’s various different needs and requirements are answered perfectly thanks to unconventional interpretations of the spaces and custom made-to-measure furniture.

The regular and consequent flow of parallel lines emerges as a common thread in the entire design interpretation of the space and its individual rooms and areas, which it suggests and defines through constant reference to geometries, alignments and projections: what emerges is a residence set apart by a fluid and dynamic scheme, inside which the different spaces follow on from each other with continuous connections and visual references, stylistic and chromatic.

The living area emerges as a particularly large and welcoming space, its volume standing out with the large panoramic window which dominates the entire wall and visually extends the residence towards the maritime landscape and its infinite splendour. Impalpable delimitations make it easy to define and identify the spaces dedicated to the entryway, the living area itself and the dining room, in a constant, fluid manner free of interruptions.

Visually inscribed in a smaller volume but in direct spatial dialogue with the day area, the entrance hall is delineated by the storage/divider represented by the glass and wood “floating” bookshelf, and completed with the presence of large full-height cabinets, camouflaged in the same colour and finish as the walls, with the function of coat and jacket storage.

In the living area itself, the slatwall panelling which occupies a significant area emerges as the undisputed protagonist of the new interpretation – architectural, stylistic and formal – of the entire residence: it is the focal point of the design and tangible common thread between the various spaces, making it possible to view the corridor leading to the bedrooms as an extension, both visual and functional, of the living area, a characteristic which is highlighted by the ceiling track lighting system.

The “millerighe” slatwall panelling is structured as furnishing with an entirely containing function, as a small bar is hidden inside it: this strategic transformative design makes it possible to define a complete, accessorised space to meet numerous needs, while taking up a depth of just 10 cm. The specific position in which this piece of furniture is located – its presence also partially marks out and delimits the corridor area – lends functionality to a passageway which could otherwise be easily overlooked and makes it a focal point, at the same time completing the visual triangulation of conviviality composed of the sofa and dining table.

Surrounded by the “millerighe” panelling, the TV appears in close visual dialogue with the sofa, which features soft forms and is in turn strongly connected with the panoramic view of the sea: both elements, together, define a precise relaxation subspace within the large spatial volume and scenic structure of the day area. Finally, located between the entrance and the sofa area, perfectly aligned with the large window which enjoys a spectacular view of the hills surrounding Vico Equense, is the living room table, with sleek, simple lines, at the same time enhanced and embellished by the imposing chandelier.

Brutally interrupting the rhythmic and regular progress of the slatwall panelling’s “millerighe” pattern are two large openings – one a doorway, the other a hatch – making it possible to insert the kitchen area into the fluid, dynamic spatial layout.

This is located in the “box” formed by the slatwall panelling with a symmetrical yet inverse stylistic and visual projection: like the inside of a clean room, the colours become much lighter and the formal matrix of alignments is resumed following the same formal plot, nevertheless unwinding through new and different stylistic motifs.

This environment first and foremost presents a clear, sharp simultaneous presence of different materials, suggesting and identifying the precise and clear distinction between the most purely functional area and the more strictly convivial zone. Enclosed in a white monochromatic box, the white worktop of the cooking area, containing an inset hob facing onto the living area in a mark of sharing and conviviality, is bordered by an area of large-format white porcelain tiles – interrupting the stack-bond parquet present in the rest of the space – and a white slatted soffit feature. In the context of this chromatic absolutism, the presence of the bright-orange cooker hood ducting and kitchen tap are deliberately discordant elements which lend the environment a touch of carefree vivacity.

The other half of the geometrically defined space – in which the parquet flooring tightly laid in stack bond continues uninterrupted – houses generous cabinetry, ideal for storage of appliances, and also incorporating the pantry. Inside of this closed layout, fully visible from the living area and bordered and defined within a tiled area featuring discontinuous geometric motifs, an open space frames the custom kitchen table, which is a direct extension of the shallow countertop over the lower cabinets, supported by a glass leg.

In the corridor, a tight structure of wooden slats – completely in perspective with and mirroring the “millerighe” pattern of the slatwall unit – identifies and defines a stylistic component with a strong personality which leads to the bedrooms, whose flush access doors are perfectly integrated in the decorative scheme which represents the overall design key to the environment.

The bedrooms zone in turn follows two clearly distinct formal scores.

On the one hand, the master bedroom and its bathroom – facing each other at the end of the corridor and nestled inside the wooden slats – clearly maintain the stylistic and formal link to the living area; on the other, the girls’ bedroom and en-suite, with access in the section of corridor where the wall is without panelling, make reference to the visual codices of the kitchen – located directly opposite the passageway – and reinterpret its compositional elements according to different stylistic rules.

The master bedroom features minimalist forms with sleek, essential lines. Two large custom wardrobes extend parallel along the entire surface of two opposing walls; in this context, the sand coloured high-gloss doors are sharply interrupted by two contrasting matt black openings, the first corresponding to the bedroom door, the second containing the large window offering a sea view; as an extension of the windowsill there is a further, highly functional design element here, which can be used as a desk for home working or as a vanity top.

The “millerighe” slatwall panelling which is the core design feature of the whole residence is also repeated in the master bathroom. Here, rectangular wall and floor tiles – alternating in matt and gloss finishes in an overall effect composed of nuances ranging from blue to brown – create a geometric pattern of great visual impact; the space emerges in its unusual square form, with the presence of totally unencumbered walls, while the sanitaryware is installed in the middle of the room behind a half-height partition. Leading directly on from the door, the vanity under the basin continues the “millerighe” slatted panelling, completed with a mirror hanging from the ceiling which makes the design of the entire room fluid and free. Located to the side in its own area, on the other hand, is the shower with bench: here a reeded glass partition, in keeping with the theme of vertical lines, partially screens off the generous compartment, making the connection between the different functional spaces more fluid.

The girls’ room, with access door opposite the kitchen, returns to its aesthetic and formal choices and colour scheme. A series of orange lines define and emphasise the custom built-in furniture created for this room, once again featuring modular and adjustable storage spaces. Finally, the second bathroom is an en-suite to this bedroom, in which green dominates, a clear tribute to the Mediterranean vegetation visible outside, further highlighted by the ironic presence of an animal light fixture attached to the mirror.

The post LA CASA MILLERIGHE appeared first on Design Buy Build.

With an open concept, which explores construction possibilities and different materials, interior designer Marcela Rocca developed a project for her clients to share moments of leisure, with comfort and complete disconnection from the outside world, creating affective memories surrounded by nature.

Located at the highest point of the land, the house was strategically framed to embrace the beautiful surrounding landscape to the interior areas of the residence. Its structure has two ground floors, interconnected by an entrance hall, which result in spacious, bright and bold environments, with long, glazed walls, for the family to fully enjoy the view of nature.

A charming composition of furniture and decorative objects leads to the main entrance of the house, which marks the transition between the social and intimate areas.

On the right side of the hall, the integrated living space reflects a minimalist language. On the gourmet balcony, the main wall with terracotta texture and the wooden slat lining blend perfectly with the furniture with clean and current features.

In the kitchen, the central island accommodated the cooktop on a black granite top, and received a light wood countertop, which contrasts with the brown chairs. The layout allowed more practicality and functionality to the environment, in addition to interaction between people.

Residents’ privacy is guaranteed in the block to the left of the entrance hall, where the intimate area is located, with three suites. The couple’s bedroom received a headboard with MDF slats painted in white, a bedside table and a vintage-style dressing table. For her daughters’ bedroom, she opted for the “less is more” trend, creating a simple and peaceful setting.

All bathrooms have floors and coverings in grey tones. But for children, beige and white tones predominate in the finishes of the countertops, floors and walls.

The infinity pool with various depth levels guarantees fun for all ages and offers incredible views!

Marcela Rocca Arquitetura & Interiors

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcelaroccainteriores/

Photographer Sidney Doll

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidneydollfotografo/

The post Summer house is a true private oásis appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Cornish leading Luxury property developer, Stephens + Stephens, in collaboration with multi-award-winning interior design agency Absolute, is taking its signature Stephens + Stephens style to Cornwall’s forgotten corner with the creation of Southshore.

Stephens + Stephens is well-known for its team’s skills, vision and new-wave approach to creating luxury properties in awe-inspiring locations. It’s latest development Southshore, which will feature a truly unique collection of 10 detached four-bedroom houses, is no different.

Just a short walk from the beach and with mesmerising views of the surrounding countryside, the homes – which will be finished in 2023 – are perfect for those seeking a more tranquil lifestyle which, despite lockdown restrictions being all-but gone, more people in the UK seem to be embracing. In fact, the number of people leaving cities has reached a four year high.

Helen Stephens, Creative Director of Stephens + Stephens and Absolute, comments: “Our team has genuinely loved creating our new collection of 10 Southshore properties in Seaton, and that shines through in every aspect – from the design to the finishing touches. We have drawn inspiration from both our immediate surroundings, as well as looking further afield and embracing elements such as the art-deco chic of Miami’s stunning coastal properties. In addition to, of course, bringing it all into the 21^st century and ensuring the luxury people have come to expect from a Stephens + Stephens property is woven throughout.”

The Southshore four-bedroom properties will start from £895,000. For those who want to pre-register or find out more information, please visit: https://stephensandstephens.com/

Southshore – Miami-beach style with added refined glamour

The 10 Southshore homes will feel as though they have been carved into the hillsides themselves, connected by a sloping, curved driveway. Striking square, clean lined architecture gives the buildings a second phase art deco feel known as the streamline modern.

Crafted using a modern, sustainable timer frame method, the properties will feature the best-quality insulation within the walls and roofs. The external cladding will be a mixture of aesthetic timber from accredited sustainable forests, and traditional natural stone in order to allow the houses to blend in seamlessly with the biodiverse surroundings.

The vast floor to ceiling windows will allow occupants to take full advantage of the breathtaking views, as well as enabling natural light to stream into the vast, open plan living spaces. All will be aluminum double glazed, offering low u values. What’s more, each of the houses will incorporate green sedum roofs which come with their own biodiversity benefits, including capturing airborne pollutants and CO2, as well as acting as an additional layer of insulation for the home.

Each Southshore house will have a unique gargantuan balcony to offer, what feels like, endless space for alfresco socialising, as well as the best seat in the house to view those famous south coast sunrises.

Inside, each property will have a carefully designed interior scheme, featuring a palette of clean neutral shades. The deliberate décor will intertwine modern coastal abode with countryside chic. Soft down lighting adds a soft glow throughout, while the minimal, light and bright base is perfect for new owners incorporate their own personal style.

Environmental Credentials

The Stephens + Stephens team have looked at every element of the Southshore properties and endeavored to ensure they are not only the most efficient systems for the new owners, but that they have the least environmental impact too.

• The heating system, the Mitsubishi Ecodan Full Coastal Units, is the industry leader in low carbon heating
• Underfloor heating run by air sourced heat pump units ensure a low carbon footprint and low maintenance operation
• Internally the appliances will all be low rating electrical, and the houses fully controlled using a Smart system for economy and efficiency

Surrounding the properties will be trees and scrubs, including traditional Cornish hedge, as well as wildflower meadow planting which will consist of a conservation seed mix for coastal habitats, containing 26 UK native wildflowers and 9 grasses. Even the ornamental planting has been designed with the wildlife in mind – including fruits and flowers.

The Location – Seaton

The Southshore homes have been built on the lesser-known, quieter south coast of Cornwall in the hidden-gem village of Seaton. Surrounded by the perfect balance of rolling countryside and pristine shoreline, Seaton is just three miles away from the popular and historic harborside town of Looe, and a stone’s throw away from the bright lights of Plymouth. Thanks to its tucked away position, Seaton’s calmer waters are most-favoured by sailors, wild swimmers, and paddle boarders.

Website: stephensandstephensdevelopers.com/
Instagram: sandsdevelopers |
Facebook: sandsdevelopers

The post Stephens + Stephens Brings Miami-Chic to Cornwall appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Paul Hopkins comments, “I trusted Octagon from day one, as they share a similar ethos to my company, never compromising on attention to detail or specification. There is a true art to house building, engineering out complexity without losing quality, and Octagon deliver this like nobody else.”

The Hopkins spent a number of years searching for the perfect spot to build, eventually finding a 0.6- acre plot on one of Northwood’s premier residential roads. They already knew the estate well, having lived there for 5 years, before temporarily moving away to downsize. Once grandchildren were on the scene, they wanted the space to entertain, so upsizing was back on the cards.

Paul explains: “Our aim was to find the worst possible house on the best possible plot in the best road, to knock down the existing property and build a home to our exact specification. The plot we finally settled on was perfect, backing on to a bridle path and Ruislip Woods – we just needed the house to match.”

Octagon’s Bespoke team began by showing the Hopkins a number of earlier projects, showcasing the quality of product that Octagon deliver, and providing inspiration for their own bespoke home.

Paul mentions: “One particular home in Virginia Water stood out to us, and by coincidence was the perfect dimensions to fit on our plot. It was a huge benefit to be able to walk around a home that near mimicked what we were building, giving a feeling of the sense of space and light that we would achieve in our new home; a particularly rare luxury for any new build property.”

With planning submitted and approved, following the inclusion of a number of mature trees to mitigate the loss of a large oak, work soon commenced on their 6,500 sq ft, three-storey, six bedroom/bath Bespoke home, with the project completed before Christmas 2018.

Paul says: “We couldn’t be happier with the end result. Every element is exactly how we envisaged, from the exquisite stone detailing on the exterior, to the beautiful landscaping surrounding the home.”

“If I had to give a favourite room, it would be the master ensuite. Hidden behind pocket doors leading from the generous master bedroom, the bathroom is a masterclass in the use of book-matched marble. A feature bath sits central to a quadruple length walk-in shower, whilst a substantial roof-light provides views of mature Oak trees, providing a wonderful connection with the outdoors.”

Small details make a huge impact, with coffered ceilings throughout the ground floor reception rooms creating a unique and visually interesting feature, while L-shaped glass partitions on each side of the dining room enhance the sense of openness, and provide a practical barrier to prevent kitchen aromas travelling through the ground floor.

Paul comments: “Natural light is hugely important to us, so we incorporated a window that transcends the height of the home overlooking the South-facing garden; the result is a mesmerising column of light which greets us every morning.”

The Hopkins brought onboard interior design agency Killer5 from the very start of the project, meaning important details such as the placement of electrical sockets and lighting layouts were established before the first spade hit the soil.

Paul adds: “Bringing the interior designers in from the start of the process not only made it smoother and more efficient, but it also meant that the total cost stayed close to the original estimate.”

“Unlike other developers and industries where you see a basic model and know you need to spend considerably more for the added luxuries, at Octagon, a premium brand specification is the starting point. We chose to spend extra on media equipment, integrated ceiling speakers and security, but crucial details from the bathrooms taps to the kitchen appliances were all high specification as standard.”

Paul finishes: “Working for one of the most successful and detailed developers in the UK, it was inevitably going to be tough to really impress me, but Octagon did just that. Now we get to wake up in our dream home every day, and that never could have happened without Octagon.”

For more information, visit www.octagonbespoke.com , or call 020 8481 7500

The post Building for an Industry Expert appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Palette Architecture, a firm focused on the creation of built environment that enhances the daily experience of our contemporary lives, is proud to unveil CUBE | HOUSE, located in historic brownstone Brooklyn, New York. The late-1800s Italianate townhouse needed rescue. After previous owners stripped away the original details, partitions, and materials, the building’s spirit had become muddled. The design brief called for the revitalization of the house’s original character, with contemporary connections to history and nature.

“The architectural approach was twofold,” says Peter Miller, a Partner at Palette Architecture. “In addition to creating a threshold to the historic qualities by carving a 17-foot square hole into the rear of the home, we endeavored to create new contemporary connections through a 20-foot cube located in the rear yard.”

A precise incision

The removal of the rear wall exposes the contrasting qualities of the parlor and garden levels. While the upper level retains much of the building’s original detailing, the lower floor does not. A thin metal portal outlines the opening, drawing attention to the contrast. On the lower level, the incision allows for a continuation of an open plan. On the upper level, a gridded glass wall infills the portal and creates a delicate veil to the more traditional character of the upper floors. Taking cues from 19th-century Brooklyn building traditions, the glass wall becomes a porous threshold between the old and new.

A Cube of connectivity

The cube addition is a minimally-adorned, double-height extension that stands in contrast to the upper floors. It is free of all moldings and partitions, a characteristic that extends throughout the garden level. The narrow edging of the kitchen cabinetry, the elegantly thin borders of the custom herringbone floor, and the thin lines of each light fixture set the aesthetic of this floor. Ancillary programs such as the pantry, cellar stairs, powder room, and wine storage fill the narrow space along the Western edge of the kitchen.

“The form of the cube allows for a variety of outdoor spaces, and the carefully crafted openings accentuate connections to nature,” explains Miller. “For example, the upper face of the cube features a large, asymmetrical skylight that provides a tangible connection to the exterior environment, allowing residents to track the passage of time and weather from the interior.”

The skylight also creates a visual link between the partially-sheltered rooftop terrace above, and the people inside. The rear face of the cube features four full-length doors and a gridded glass curtain wall that faces onto a sunken brick court and manicured gardens beyond. Nestled amongst the native grasses and shrubs, several hidden seating areas were created, as well as a patio for entertaining.

Upper-level intricacies

In contrast to the lower floors, the upper levels are more partitioned and intricately programmed. On the first floor, guests are welcomed into an open, yet formal parlor. Large pocket doors open into a rear library leading down into the cube below. Unique Italianate trims, moldings, and colors distinguish the library and parlor, evoking a true sense of the building’s original character. A refurbished wooden staircase leads from the entry hall to the more intimate second floor. At the top of the stairs, a personal study, adorned with bookshelves and a pair of glass doors, leads out to a roof terrace overlooking the garden. The second floor also includes the primary bedroom suite, which features a working fireplace, a restored bedroom niche, and a marble-clad bathroom. The third floor features a pair of bedrooms and bathrooms, each with unique wall coverings, fixtures, and lighting.

“The traditional and tailored aspects of the upper floors stand in contrast to the simple and airy qualities of the garden level and cube,” concludes Peter Miller. “However, the cube harmonizes them and mediates the interaction of interior and landscape, just as the incision and ‘veil’ mediate the two distinct interior characteristics.”

Data sheet

Location: Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY

Architects: Palette Architecture LLC
Project Manager: Peter Miller, AIA

Design Team: Jeff Wandersman, AIA, John Sunwoo, AIA

Builder: Grant Davis Thompson

Structural Engineers: KCE Consulting Engineering

MEP Engineers: Ramierz and Azadian Analysis and Design

Landscape: Isobel Herbold Design

Suppliers: Brombal Windows, USAI, Plug Lighting, Tracy Glover Lighting, The Urban Electric Company, Barber Wilsons, Duravit, Newport Brass, Randolph Morris, Rohl, Gaggenua, Sub-zero, Wine Guardian, Zephyr

Photo credit: Emily Gilbert

About Palette Architecture

Palette Architecture is a leading-edge, full-service architecture and design practice. The founding partners first met as students of the Graduate School of Architecture at Columbia University, where their research focused on collaborative design, technical innovation, digital fabrication, and material investigations. After working at internationally renowned architecture offices, the partners reunited to form Palette Architecture in 2010 around a shared mission to create physical spaces that enhance and enrich the daily experience of people’s lives. The firm’s creative process fosters a collaborative dialogue with its clients, consultants, and builders to promote a more responsible and humane built environment.

www.palettearch.com

The post Cube | House appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Casa Aramara is located on the northern bay inside the Peninsula Papagayo Luxury Resort in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.  The home sits on a extremely challenging site with very aggressive slopes and long and undulating site.  This called for the design of 3 separate articulating modules, each placed at different elevations and different angles to best accommodate the site’s challenging nature.

The home is an example of modern tropical design, where the seamless indoor-outdoor connection and the integration of the natural jungle and the ocean view is the main focus.  Importance on natural materials with the usage of natural teak siding and sun control screens, contrast with the charcoal-grey stucco surfaces and soft earth-tone floors to provide a palette which integrates into the intense greenery of the natural landscapes.

SARCO Architects is a unique architectural firm as it embodies all needed specialties under one point of contact. The firm incorporates Architectural Lighting Design, Architectural Interiors, all required engineering, etc., as part of their core services. Additionally, for their high-end projects, they also take care of complete construction management, delivering the entire project scope for their clients.

SARCO Architects prides itself on designing homes that people can enjoy and create lasting memories in.

For the absolute best in high-end bespoke luxury architecture for your home in Tropical paradise in Costa Rica, contact SARCO Architects Costa Rica.

Tel. (Costa Rica) +506.2283.4107 / (USA) +1.646.712.9299

newprojects@sarco-cr.com

www.sarcoarchitects.com

The post Casa Aramara appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Britain revealed as a nation ‘keeping up appearances’ as homeowners will renovate their properties after their neighbours have done so

With summer in full swing and people spending more time in their gardens, how much do Britons enjoy snooping on their neighbours’ homes? IDSystems has revealed that almost two in three (64%) Brits keep tabs on the renovation work happening in and around their neighbourhood – with 41% particularly interested when it’s something noticeable, such as a kitchen or patio extension.

A national survey of 1000 people by luxury glazing and bifold door specialists, IDSystems, found that the nation’s interest in their neighbours’ renovation work extends past simply admiring – as 44% revealed themselves as envious observers and would seek to renovate their home after seeing that their neighbours had done so. Britain appears to be aware of its nosy habits, however, as 86% of Brits claimed curb appeal is important to them and want their property to look good both from the front and back.

Edward Stobart, Head of Projects for IDSystems comments: “It is understandable that most homeowners wish for their property to look presentable. What is interesting to see however, is how witnessing work nearby actively influences the work that people have done on their homes.

“We have clearly become more aware of what’s going on around us, including what our neighbours are having done on their properties. It seems that the larger renovations are the ones that are really catching our attention – and as we are noticing them more, there could potentially be a rise in demand for these types of extensions.”

Although the renovation work of others is catching the attention of the eagle-eyed among us, the motivation behind renovating goes past the extension envy of our neighbours. The second-most influential factor for having a home extension was to better utilise space, with 35% of those surveyed stating this was a key motivator behind renovating their home. This was closely followed by 34% wanting more space and 33% seeking to increase their property value.

Edward Stobart adds: “Although the more traditional reasons for wanting an extension are still apparent, it is clear the influence of our neighbours’ renovations has become more significant on what we choose to do to our homes.”

In terms of inspiration, IDSystems found that TV ranked top for influencing home renovation design, with 28% of those surveyed inspired most by reality and documentary shows. Surprisingly, comfortably ranking above social media.

Other popular sources of inspiration include:

• Interior design and lifestyle magazines (22%)
• Social media content, including influencers and celebrities (21%)

Furthermore, as the cost-of-living crisis becomes increasingly prevalent, the nation is becoming aware of the potential financial implications of home renovation. Interestingly, in terms of public perception, 33% stated that if they saw someone having a new kitchen or patio extension installed, they might think they are doing financially well and better than average – but nonetheless would have likely borrowed some money to pay for it.

To learn more about Brits attitudes to home renovations visit: https://idsystems.co.uk/the-future-of-smart-doors-and-windows/

The post Extension envy appeared first on Design Buy Build.

ABL3 Architects came up with a concept that met both needs. They designed a kitchen island with an integrated dining table that pulls out. During the week, the five family members use the island, while at weekends the table comes out for entertaining.

The dining table wasn’t the only challenge that the ABL3 team faced. Due to the way that water comes down from the property’s roof, the team had to pull structure away from it, essentially delivering a wraparound extension and meaning there was exposed steel at the end of the kitchen run, as well as an area with a dropped ceiling. Keen to maximise every inch of space, the team worked within these parameters to turn the end of the kitchen into a reading nook, with a corner window and a bench seat. ABL3 painted the exposed steel pink and made a feature of it, adding a hidden bookshelf beside it at the end of the reading snug.

The reading area provided the family with an additional space to enjoy but without eating into any more garden space, while also working with the practicalities of collecting the water on the roof. Outside, meanwhile, the team included a full-length storage run with a bench seat.

There’s a further bench seat within the kitchen, providing plentiful storage and creating yet another area for the young children to enjoy while their parents keep an eye on them while preparing meals. The kitchen bench was designed in the shape of a giant clothes peg. This lovely bespoke feature evolved out of a solid block of timber that the client was able to source from their family business – a builders’ merchant.

With a fairly tight budget for the project, the family business came in handy in numerous ways. Offcuts and bits of unwanted wood were transformed into features, while doors were upcycled. There was an emphasis on not wasting wood. Inside the larder door, for example, the timber that was left over from the cut-out for hob was used to carry on the worktop within the larder.

Budgetary constraints also inspired some creative thinking about the window at the end of the kitchen. The client wanted a window that would open. However, glass is expensive, and moveable glass even more so. As such, the ABL3 team came up with the idea to flip the window around. They built a zigzag window with timber cladding and a cat flap, structured so that the timber is the part that opens – a far more cost-effective and imaginative way of meeting the client’s brief.

Tamsin Bryant, Architect, ABL3, recalls:

“This was such a personal project, as the extension was built entirely around the family’s lifestyle. The budget inspired us to think creatively about design and materials, ensuring we delivered value at every turn, while creating a really special series of spaces with outstanding attention to detail.”

To maximise light in the kitchen, the ABL3 team created long slots in the roof to draw light into the space. The back of the house was previously very dark, so this transformed the feel of the space into something light and airy, which the client very much appreciated.

What to do with the middle room at Second Avenue was the other major challenge, as the room would lose light due to the extension. After careful consideration, ABL3 Architects turned half of the space into a utility room and used the other half to add a bar, desk area and storage to the existing living room, via a built-in joinery unit. The design made sense of the darker part of the room, giving it character and functionality, rather than simply creating a dim corridor! The whole family can now use the space without feeling on top of each other. It’s not quite open plan – it’s flexible living, with spaces that double up for different purposes.

Planning for the Second Avenue extension was originally granted on 9 December 2019. However, the land had knotweed, which had to be cleared completely before any work could proceed. This meant that work on site started on 23 March 2020 – the day the UK government announced the first national Covid-19 lockdown.

The lockdown created plenty of disruption and delays, with the steel and glass windows taking longer to arrive and the schedule slipping when the electrician and others had Covid. The ABL3 team flexed around the issues, ordering materials as far in advance as possible and juggling workflows, so that the project was finished in September 2020, six months after work began.

Architect: ABL3 Architects

https://www.abl3architects.com/

The post Second Avenue appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Charred Kebony Cladding by Shou Sugi Ban completes BoBen Construction’s state-of-the-art development.

 Located in the heart of Warwickshire on the outskirts of historic Rugby, Bilton Fields, one of BoBen Construction’s most recent developments, is a shining example of quality, contemporary and sustainable construction. Completed with Charred Kebony timber cladding, the luxury residential development is sustainable in outlook with a unique appearance that retains its rural farmyard essence and the charm of the surrounding area without compromising on modernity.

Built using sustainable building methods, the latest technology and the highest quality products, the development’s material palette is simple but effective with zinc roofing, farmhouse brickwork and expansive glazing. Crafted with an inherent appreciation of the natural landscape, Bilton Fields reflects an ongoing commitment from BoBen Construction to meet the ever-growing consumer appetite to create architecturally distinguished homes for the modern lifestyle.

Charred Kebony Cladding by Shou Sugi Ban was selected to provide a long-lasting and attractive timber finish for the homes’ exterior. Using ancient Japanese methods, Shou Sugi Ban timber is burned to create a long-lasting product with a distressed appearance, resulting in a sleek and fragile aesthetic. Developed in Norway, Kebony’s pioneering wood-processing technique sees sustainably sourced softwoods heated with furfuryl alcohol, an agricultural by-product, modifying it to maintain the same durable properties of industrial hardwood but without the same contribution to the carbon footprint.

Designed to allow the indoor living area to extend and naturally coexist with the outdoors and woodland views, each dwelling boasts open plan internal spaces with floor to ceiling glazing surrounding all aspects of the house to create a truly light and spacious home. The properties benefit from energy efficient underfloor heating throughout, a stylish log burner, a choice of wooden flooring, tiling or carpet, as well as en-suite bathrooms to all bedrooms. A multi-purpose studio annex with separate access offers several living options whether that may be used as a home office, nursery, gym, multi-generational living or a cinema/games room. The double garage is large enough for a workshop with capabilities for an electric car charger to be installed.

Constructed through sustainable means with minimal impact to the environment, the quality of workmanship on the Bilton Fields project has been recognised by the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), who recently awarded BoBen Construction with ‘The Bricks’ certificate. Following 24-months of works, Bilton Fields successfully overcame obstacles beset to the construction industry by the coronavirus pandemic. Built across the courtyard of a former potato farm, the two-storey dwellings not only feature the aesthetics and spacious characteristics traditionally associated with rural UK properties, but also accommodate for the modern expectations of urban family life. Already, the project has proven popular, with 10 of the 12 luxury homes having been sold to new owners.

Bobbie Curley, Director at BoBen Construction, commented: “From the outset, we envisaged Bilton Fields would comprise a cluster of beautifully designed rural buildings, characteristic of a “vernacular farmstead” with low-key sustainable elements. Kebony wood by Shou Sugi Ban had a large part to play in enabling this, providing a striking exterior to our carefully crafted homes, which are sleek in appearance and sustainable in outlook. We are delighted with the final product which has already proven to be extremely popular with homebuyers.”

Nina Landbø, International Sales Manager at Kebony, added – “It is brilliant to see Kebony wood used in this new luxury residential development. In selecting Charred Kebony Cladding by Shou Sugi Ban, the Bilton Field project recognises the importance of using sustainably sourced materials which are aesthetically pleasing. The wood itself requires little maintenance, and comes with the promise of high durability and stability, making it the perfect choice for construction companies who are looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

The post Exemplar Barn Conversion appeared first on Design Buy Build.

Just four kilometres from the city centre, a former quarry has been redeveloped in true contemporary style and is now home to The Edge House, a luxury property defined by its extreme architecture, angular slate roof and minimalist aesthetic.

With a quarry edge measuring 8 metres high, the extravagant plot location proved to be a major design challenge, which was amplified by the planning restrictions as pitched roofs are a legal requirement in this exclusive neighbourhood. However, the homeowners wanted an original and creative solution for the plot and so their search for the perfect design took two years.

Several architects were commissioned, but the design concepts never quite met the clients’ expectations. Architect Przemyslaw Olczak from the internationally acclaimed studio Mobius Architekci in Krakow, finally won their trust and was awarded the contract. His idea was to build the house on the quarry edge. He placed the building on the rugged cliff, adapting it to the contours of the slope with steeply inclined façades and using dark slate to offset it against the existing pale limestone.

The exquisite building is made truly extraordinary through the architect’s ingenuity with differences in height. Viewed from the south, The Edge House looks like a single-level home, whilst the cliff side to the north reveals three storey’s that appear to be integrated into the rocks. The homeowners wanted a wildflower meadow to be incorporated into the design. In order to prevent the house from overpowering the meadow-rich plot, Ofczak designed parts of the site to slope slightly downwards towards the south and west sides of the building. This reduced the height, whilst simultaneously creating a private living space and pool area out of sight. Several balconies and terraces ensure that the residents can enjoy the sunshine or the shade as much as they wish.

The understated architecture continues inside with 850 square metres of living space on three levels: a basement, ground floor and first floor. The entrance is at ground level and leads into a spacious kitchen and open plan living and dining area. To the right of the entrance, there is a media room and one bedroom with a guest bathroom. The upper level boasts two large bedrooms with bathrooms and dressing rooms, in addition to a work and office space.

Minimalist yet multifunctional: Gira Smart technology completes the concept. The Gira Esprit Design Line is the perfect complement for the elegant interiors and as the homeowners wanted extra comfort and sustainability, they chose a KNX system from Gira to install many complex functions. At the heart of this wired bus installation is the Gira HomeServer, which enables the household to control the building technology thanks to a range of different devices. By adding the extra power of the Gira FacilityServer to the Gira HomeServer, the KNX system at Edge House links everything together: from door communication, the security/alarm system, blinds, electrically-operated windows and doors to the audio system, lighting, heating and climate control technology.

Wherever they are, the residents can enjoy all the benefits of mobile smart home control on the go via the Gira interface on the Gira HomeServer app. At home, they can call up defined functions and individual scenes in any room using the Gira pushbutton sensors. With dimmed lighting and the blinds down, the living area can be transformed into a home cinema. The KNX installation in the Edge House not only offers an incredible range of functions and enormous flexibility, but it can also evolve in the future – because an electrical engineer can reprogram the system to add new functions at any time, without any complex building work or additional cables.

Gira Esprit Design Line – brimming with personality this socket and switch series comes in 15 different options to bring a design accent to your home. You can mix and match with frames in on-trend metallics, sustainably sourced Linoleum-Plywood and luxe glass. Offering functional and fashionable elements, Gira Esprit is available in bronze, aluminium, aluminium light gold, aluminium brown, aluminium black, chrome, stainless steel, anthracite, dark brown, light brown, glass mint, glass umber, glass white, glass black and light grey. It works seamlessly with the Gira System 55, which offers over 300 functions to assist intuitive smart home living.

Gira Pushbutton Sensor 3 – bringing together multiple functions at the touch of a button, you can control lighting and blind, adjust the temperature or store and call up complete scenes of light, blinds and music. This versatile room controller will maximise the benefits of smart living and can be easily customised to your needs.

Architecture: Mobius Architekci | ul.Szlak 77/421 | 31-153 | Krakow | Poland | e biuro@mobius.pl | web mobius.pl

Photos: Pawel Ulatowski

The post Gira smart technology adds intelligent comfort to The Edge appeared first on Design Buy Build.