Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

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• An Original Bank Design: Raiffeisen Office in Zurich by NAU
• Mixture of Old Victorian Elements and Contemporary Design: Kooyong House
• Creative DiY Project for your Hobby Corner: Fun Library Sculptures
• Imposing, Diverse and Inspiring: River House by MCK Architects
• Wood and Stone Contemporary Residence: the Maddock House in Canada
• Beautiful Apartment with Wonderful Views by Stanic Harding Architecture
• How to Prepare your Pool Area for Entertaining
• Modern Residence Merging Intimacy with Social Interaction Needs
• Old Heritage Church Converted into Contemporary Home
• 30 Scandinavian Living Room Designs With a Mesmerizing Effect

An Original Bank Design: Raiffeisen Office in Zurich by NAU Posted: 05 May 2011 06:53 AM PDT When entering a bank, people are usually too caught up in their money issues to care of the surrounding design. But we found a bank that is sure to disrupt your process of thought when confronted with its interior. Design studio NAU took a highly original approach when creating the design for Austrian bank Raiffeisen in Zurich. Featuring perforated walls enriched with portraits, the place no longer feels rigid, but gets its much needed “human touch” which is sure to encourage social interaction: “Portraits of the quarter's most prominent past residents like Böklin, Semper or Sypri grace the walls, their abstracted images milled into Hi-macs using advanced digital production techniques.  While intricately decorative, the design ground the bank in the area's cultural past, while looking clearly towards the future.” Freshome readers, seen any “good looking” banks lately [Photography is by Jan Bitter] Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Transparent Glass Piggy Bank : Bubble Bank by Leon Ransmeier Saving Money as a Competition: DUEL Savings Bank Sakuragawa House by Suppose Design Office Albert Reichmuth Store in Zurich, Especially Designed for the Wine Lovers The House Caught Between The Sea And The Mountains Modern Home Office Desk – Arches Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Mixture of Old Victorian Elements and Contemporary Design: Kooyong House Posted: 05 May 2011 04:31 AM PDT With its imposing character, the Kooyong House extends its outside beauty indoors. Designed by Matt Gibson Architecture, the formerly Victorian double front house undertook a great transformation with the results you can see in the pictures below. The main front elements of the house were left intact, while the architects added an upper level, a garage and a pool. Two “L”-shaped floors were stacked on top of each other and a large hallway connects the old part of the building with the new part. The interior layout of the residence as explained by the architects: “The interior spatial logic of the original was flipped. The formality of the existing dwelling was deliberately used  for adult (sleeping and greeting )uses whilst the rear of the ground level converts to more informal Living purposes with Children's facilities upstairs. Small extensions off the ground floor 'L' and nips and tucks to the first floor enable a series of separate individual & private light courts that spill off the internal spaces.” Timber cladding on the facade completed by sinuous design lines offer the residence a contemporary look. A lot of attention was given to each space display, creating sculptural spaces that contrast with the remaining Victorian residence. The design of the two floors work together to create a functional residence that embraces the interior courtyard. As you can see, the residence was created by respecting the past and welcoming the future. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Eye Catching Victorian Duplex in San Francisco Ingenious Residence Melding Modern Style and Victorian Character Surprising and Dynamic Transformation of a Victorian Residence Fashionable Home in Denver, A Showcase of Luxury And Style Victorian Loft : Located in Boston (photos) Victorian Terrace House Extension by Ailtireacht Architects Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Creative DiY Project for your Hobby Corner: Fun Library Sculptures Posted: 05 May 2011 02:26 AM PDT Take a good look at the picture above. Can you see the difference between a usual library and one that has received the attention of someone who loves decorating? These fun ideas found on StyleItChic inspires you to create an easy, innovative and creative library sculpture. Using diverse decorative items, these libraries were “sculpted” with a skull motif. Each of the libraries has a different expression, created by the outlines of the simple elements decorating the plain shelves. The great design lays in the contrast between the decorative items and the spaces between the shelves. Keeping the same colour composition for each project, you can easily create a visually interactive corner for your hobby: reading, writing, playing music or collecting things. Carefully choosing each decorative element will create a fantastic place to store your books, guitars or chess boards.  This is a great DiY project for those of you who expect nothing but the best from your home. I am sure that this idea will bring on many other decorative styles, so we look forward to seeing what this idea inspired you to create in your own home. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Inviting Library Design in Canada by Hughes Condon Marler Architects Allen Corner Bookcase Fun to Fabricate DIY Pantom Chair by Peter Jakubik Beautiful Space Saving Furniture : Nettlestone Library Ensemble Wrap around corner frame : A new way to display pictures Library Chair Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Imposing, Diverse and Inspiring: River House by MCK Architects Posted: 05 May 2011 12:47 AM PDT The diverse and stunning River House was designed by MCK Architects and is located in Sydney, Australia. A massive project, impressive from any angle, the building relates to its “steep and awkwardly shaped” site and is said to reflect the personality of the Lane Cove river situated in its vicinity. Here is more on the home’s structure from the architects: “The First Floor shingle box remains largely recessive from the river side. Generous circulation zones greet the user upon entry. A wedge-shaped joinery box floating in plan like an island, separates the circulation zones from the main Living Zone, and thus heighten the experience of the journey through the space. The Main Living Zone is a bent tube shaped form with the Kitchen as the fulcrum. From this space, significant views can be obtained of the local natural precinct.” Inside and out, this residence impresses and inspires. Enjoy this incredible home skilfully photographed by Steve Back. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Intriguing Residence of Various Design Rhythms: River Road House Diverse and Inspiring Family Home in San Diego Cool and Modern Building with Imposing Architecture River House by MCK Architects- Stunning Architecture and Beautiful Views Home on the River Terrace with a Splendid View : 70 Residence Holley House by Hanrahan Meyers Architects Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Wood and Stone Contemporary Residence: the Maddock House in Canada Posted: 04 May 2011 10:15 AM PDT The outstanding design lines of the Maddock House ware created by Canadian architect Marc Boutin. Built in Calgary, Canada, the imposing wood and stone structure is home to a family of four. Featuring extensive panoramas of the Rocky Mountains and the city centre to the west, the house was designed to have the most important social spaces – the living room and the kitchen – facing a south-west oriented courtyard. In addition to these gathering places, two outdoor fireplaces – one in the courtyard and one on an upper level terrace – allow the family to spend even more time together somewhere they can enjoy fresh air. Materials used in constructing the residence tell a wonderful story: “The design utilizes stone cladding on the main level as an important conceptual gesture that integrates the landscape into the interior spaces of the house. This is done through the extension of landscape walls.  The stone walls define contained exterior spaces that provide the house with varying levels of privacy and amenity.  The top two floors are clad in stained wood, feature glazing and sun shading to support passive solar gain, and natural lighting and ventilation.” Have you ever wondered if this is your style? Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Raw Stone and Wood House in Buenos Aires Old Stone Highway House Nature And Architecture Combined: The Stone House in Portugal Wood Furnished Butler Residence in Portland, Oregon Modern Mountain Cottage in Quebec, by Blouin Tardif Architecture Energy Conscious House Design by Simon Winstanley Architects Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Beautiful Apartment with Wonderful Views by Stanic Harding Architecture Posted: 04 May 2011 08:29 AM PDT Sometimes, a complete renovation can bring the most inspiring interior design. Take for example this next apartment, designed by Stanic Harding Architecture and accompanied by light in every corner. The three-bedroom apartment on the ninth floor of a high-rise apartment building in Milsons Point was poorly planned and did not convey the inhabitant’s need for a place that would encourage the owners to move from their South Coast retreat back into the city. According to the architects, “the rationalisation of the planning allowed all major spaces to connect to the edge of the building and the wonderful views over the Harbour, Luna Park and Walsh Bay. The incorporation of the existing external balcony and corridor space into the apartment allowed for planning options that were not previously possible. The balcony now operates as a dining space but with the benefits of an outdoor space. It also links the main bedroom to the apartment in a way that reinforces the main bedrooms exclusion from the general living areas.” The wall panelling hides services, storage, laundry and bathroom areas and he use of mirrors on walls and doors extends the space, creating a bright interior. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Modern Addition to a Beautiful House for a Growing Family Contemporary Round Apartment with Astounding Skyline Views of Sydney Charming Victorian Makeover with a Welcoming Interior Design Astonishing One Floor Apartment with Breathtaking Panoramic Views Modern Family House Makeover: Woollahra 1 by Stanic Harding Architecture Extensive and Luxurious Apartment Displaying the Inhabitant’s Love for Art Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

How to Prepare your Pool Area for Entertaining Posted: 04 May 2011 06:33 AM PDT Springtime is the perfect time of year to start pre-planning your outdoor activities and your outdoor home. While it may not be time to jump into the pool just yet, it is the perfect time to think about what type of entertaining you will be doing around your pool. For many, the pool is the center of attention of the backyard, and therefore needs seating, lighting, and amenities around it. While for others, the pool is only one aspect of their entertaining lifestyle, and cooking, gardening, and children's play areas may be factors to consider as well. Here are tips to help you prepare your pool area for entertaining. Assess your pool entertaining lifestyle: Is your house the one on the block that all of the neighborhood children and teenagers flock to for your pool? If so, consider investing in pool sports activity recreation gear like beach balls, flotation devices, and fun games to do around and inside the pool to keep kids busy. While if your pool area is geared more towards evening adult entertaining, lounge chairs and nighttime lighting around the pool area may be important. Assess your lifestyle, to ensure you are using your pool to its best capacity. Deck out your pool with fun color inspiration: Making your guests feel comfortable and relaxed is your sole purpose when you entertain around your pool. Bringing fun and inspiring colors to your textiles, seating, and garden furniture cushions can instantly add pizzazz! Opt for colorful oversized pillows for lounging, bright beach towels displayed in outdoor credenzas, and outfit your pool deck area with easily movable ottomans and seating options. For versatility, consider having varieties of mix and match patterned and colored cushions for outdoor furniture to add versatility depending on the guests that will be attending. Plan your activities before hand: Ask any event planner the secret to entertaining without stress, and they will say, 'plan out your activities in advance'. While this doesn't mean you have to have a strict itinerary of the day, it does mean that an idea of what your guests will eat, where they will dine, lounge, play and interact will help you and your guests enjoy themselves around the pool. If you're planning on barbecuing, have dishware, cooking utensils, and ample room for dining and mingling adjacent to the pool area. The more separate activities you plan, the more space guests need around the amenity areas to mingle, and move around without feeling crowded. Nighttime pool entertaining: While daytime pool entertaining is a must, so are evening parties and fun around the pool. Remember to consider what type of activities will need separate lighting sources. Use lanterns and tabletop lighting for dining areas, and overhead lighting hung from trees and garden furniture umbrellas to provide ambient lighting. Ensure your pool has adequate lighting inside and outside of the pool to ensure safe footing, as well as gorgeous views and ambiance. Consider lighting landscaping and surrounding architectural elements to bring the total pool experience to life! Entertaining around the pool is one of life's great treasures to spend with friends, and family. Follow these simple tips to make your backyard oasis a memorable experience for all. Regardless of your budget, or the size of your pool area, entertaining is about the people you share it with, and the great time had by all. For more pool entertaining ideas, look through spring and summer outdoor furniture catalogs and online stores.  You will get plenty of inspiration! Freshome readers do you have any ideas for pool entertaining that are always a big success at your home? Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Beautiful Pool House in Connecticut by Hariri & Hariri Architecture Pool Table Disguised as Dining Room Table Original Pool Chaise How to Prepare your Home for a Super Bowl Party Indoor Pool Transformed into a Home Theater Swimming on a Rainy Day Made Possible with Telescopic Pool Enclosers Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Modern Residence Merging Intimacy with Social Interaction Needs Posted: 04 May 2011 04:39 AM PDT This imposing modern residence was designed by Superkül Architects and is located in Toronto, Canada. According to the architects, “SPLIT House” borrowed its name during the architecture development process: “Split in plan and section, the parti of the house allows for a flood of light to the centre. The house is designed as space for spectacle – the owners are regular hosts of their large network of friends and family, and they wanted a place that could feel grand. The trick with this was to make a house that could also feel intimate for when they were on their own. A rich brown wood floor that connects with the ipe deck outside serves as a counterpoint to the high ceilings of the main space, and connects the inside to the outside. This, in combination with the design of smaller more intimate spaces and moments throughout the ground floor make for a house that is equally good for two as it is for 30.” The interiors of the modern residence allow unobstructed views of the surrounding landscapes as well as of the entertainment area located by the pool. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Stimulating Social Interaction: Tea for Two by Mark Huang Pillows Inspired by the Internet Big Websites Social Housing Solution in Degana, Spain Berenbein Residence by Callas Shortridge Architects Modern White Residence Which Seems to Rise from Water: Carrara House Inspiring Californian Residence with Luxurious Features in Los Angeles Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Old Heritage Church Converted into Contemporary Home Posted: 04 May 2011 02:01 AM PDT This amazing looking contemporary home was achieved by reinventing the space within an old church, dating back to the mid-nineteen century. The project was completed in in Brisbane, Australia and belongs to Willis Greenhalgh Architects. Here is more information from the developers; “First a church then a theatre, a slice of Brisbane's heritage has been saved from demolition and transformed into two striking luxury homes. The existing buildings date back to 1867 and are heritage listed. Extensive community and heritage consultation ensured the balance between conserving the integrity of the buildings, the subtle introduction of contemporary elements, and the relationship with the surrounding area.” The interiors are truly breathtaking and it seems that some of the soberness of the initial old church was transfered while designing the imposing decors that make up this unusual residence. Be sure to check out the “before” photo at the end of the post in order to better understand the transformation and -as usual- let us know what impressed you the most! Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Revamping God's home into your own: Holy home in the UK A Chapel Converted Into a Modern Apartment Ruined Georgian Church Turned into Home Unconventional Home: Church in San Francisco Turned into Family Crib “Heritage Boy” from Lee Broom Holy Home: Stunning Looking Church for Sale in Utrecht Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

30 Scandinavian Living Room Designs With a Mesmerizing Effect Posted: 04 May 2011 01:33 AM PDT We can’t get enough of seeing just how functional and refined Swedish apartments are. And we know you share this feeling with us, which is why today we would like to concentrate on the most spectacular room these cribs have to offer. We gathered a little over 30 photos showcasing amazing scandinavian living room interior designs that are sure to inspire anyone in need of fresh decorating ideas. From vivid interiors invaded by color, to simple but highly functional decors, these living rooms all have a strong visual effect. Sofas cozy enough for friend gatherings, reading corners, traditional fireplaces, royal pendant lamps, colorful pillows, guitars and pianos are just a few of the elements animating these lovely cribs. No matter what their size, they all feature large windows and beautiful flower arrangements. Have a look at the photos and let us know what you find inspiring when it comes to these vivid, stylish and practical scandinavian living rooms. You can also check out our 10 Most Beautiful Swedish Apartaments of 2010 countdown for more ideas. Enjoy!               Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Fantastic Scandinavian-Inspired Posters from Jan Skácelík Swedish Inspiration – Chic Apartment With Scandinavian Feel Scandinavian Flat in Goteburg, Sweden Living Room Decorating Ideas Warm and Stylish Scandinavian Interior Designs Exceptionally Beautiful Turn of the Century Apartment in Sweden Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

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