Discover Serenity: The Art of Understated Elegance in Modern Living
The Athenian Renaissance: Blending History with Modern Simplicity
Local Local, an innovative architectural firm, masterfully revitalized a neoclassical residence in Athens. This transformation harmoniously merges the building's rich historical essence with a fresh, playful contemporary design. The central living area, predominantly adorned in a crisp white monochrome, is enlivened by striking red terrazzo flooring and a fireplace meticulously restored with exquisite green marble sourced from Tinos.
Cotswolds Sanctuary: John Pawson's Masterclass in Understated Living
Renowned for his influence in minimalist architecture, British designer John Pawson crafted his personal retreat in the picturesque Cotswolds. This home is a testament to his characteristic pared-back philosophy, featuring understated timber details, breathable lime plaster, and a carefully selected, sparse array of furniture. Pawson himself notes the profound impact of this minimalist approach, often reflected in the reactions of visitors.
Amami House: Sustainable Living Through Minimalist Design in Japan
Perched on Japan's Amami Ōshima island, the Amami House stands as an off-grid marvel, distinguished by its expansive corrugated metal roof. Sakai Architects opted for a minimalist interior, mirroring the home's self-sufficient functionality—powered entirely by solar energy and boasting a vegetable garden that ingeniously doubles as a composting area. The living space is defined by planks of sugi, Japanese cedar, colored using traditional local mud-dyeing techniques and Sharimbai tree extract, a nod to the region's textile heritage.
Heatherhill Beach House: A Danish Coastal Retreat of Timber and Tranquility
Norm Architects, a Copenhagen-based practice, conceived the Heatherhill Beach House as a tranquil escape on the Danish coast. This holiday home prominently features timber throughout its design, including an ocean-facing living room with elegant wood paneling and smooth brick floors. The architects emphasized integrating traditional materials in a contemporary manner, creating a serene and timeless atmosphere.
Madrid Apartment: Minimalist Design with Vibrant Accents
This refurbished 1970s Madrid apartment, designed by Hanghar's founder Eduardo Mediero, redefines minimalism by incorporating strategic bursts of color. The space is characterized by meticulously chosen Pirelli rubber flooring, raw MDF, and galvanized steel, complemented by vibrant elements like a yellow cage-like stool and a glossy red rounded sofa, proving that minimalism can be both understated and eclectic.
Kerr Apartment: Industrial Heritage Meets Subtle Sophistication in Melbourne
Located within a historic chocolate factory in Melbourne, the Kerr apartment by SSdH is a split-level, mezzanine-style residence distinguished by its subtle interior design. The open-plan living and kitchen area is dominated by geometric cabinetry crafted from Australian spotted gum timber, along with brushed stainless steel and nickel fixtures, creating a refined industrial aesthetic.
House by the Sea: Coastal Calm in a Cornish Home
Of Architecture, a London-based practice, designed this Cornish beachside home for a surfer and artist couple, aiming to capture their free-spirited lifestyle. The design achieves a "simple, robust and utilitarian" living space through a palette of sandy tones and industrial-style pendant lamps, creating a relaxed and natural environment that harmonizes with its coastal surroundings.
Flat Iron House: Sculptural Elegance in a London Townhouse
In west London, Michaelis Boyd reconfigured a Georgian townhouse, now known as Flat Iron House, featuring a captivating spiral staircase that gracefully connects all five floors. The interior embraces a subtle aesthetic, with neutral tones and gentle textures, evoking the owners' cherished memories of holidays in a Moroccan villa, and adding a touch of serene sophistication to urban living.