Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Newsletter |  |
- How to Become a Lighting Designer With Arturo Alvarez
- Contemporary Clothes Store in Miami: 100% Capri by Giachi
- Bailey Pet Furniture With Hidden Storage: Crazy or Practical?
- Cleaning The Children’s Room Made Fun: Pin Press
- Accomodating You And Your Favorite Things: Hollow Chair
- Striking Penthouse Adorning the 77th Floor of the Trump World Tower
- 15 Modern White Homes Feeding Your Need For Immaculate Design
| How to Become a Lighting Designer With Arturo Alvarez Posted: 29 Nov 2011 06:54 AM PST
Arturo Alvarez is an alternative and dynamic company, with its own personality. They design and manufacture all types of decorative luminaries, for home and commercial premises. Concerned with innovation in design, materials and energy saving light sources, their designs can be customized, allowing you to choose from different finishes and colors depending on what is needed for each decor. The team at Arturo Alvarez Emotional Light strive to create exceptional residential and commercial lights: “We put all our hopes and resources to provide with hand-made designs, meticulous in every detail and able to fulfill all the lighting and emotional needs of any human being. Different international prizes certify our work, over the years, as being an honest and innovative company.” Enjoy the Q & A showing how he became a successful lighting designer, maybe you can follow the advice that will guide you in the right direction. Freshome: What was the first time you thought about producing decorative lights? Arturo Alvarez: One day, by chance I had a sheet of frosted glass in my hands, in that moment I started to think about how to make a lamp with this material.
Freshome: What were the main obstacles you had to overcome in your first years as a light designer? Arturo Alvarez: The geographical distance with respect to the raw material supply centers related with lighting. We are in the northwest, in Galicia and the lighting industry in Spain is in the East, in Barcelona and Valencia. Freshome: What do you consider the most important traits a light designer should have in order to succeed in this business? Arturo Alvarez:The first thing every designer must have is an open mind, always keeping some degree of freedom to be able to offer something different to the market. Then it´s hard work until the design concept comes to fruition, along with the necessary brightness and a certain depth of intuition to connect users with their needs – which are ever changing.
Freshome: How did you feel winning your first prize for lighting systems? Arturo Alvarez: It gave me energy, more confidence and was the first awareness that the work I do is considered honest and valid. Freshome: What was the most important thing that led to the creation of LAB Arturo Alvarez, the "laboratory of ideas" that brings together your design team? Arturo Alvarez: Keep the company fresh, not to close the design under the same vision. Bring new ideas. Enrich ourselves by all working together.
Freshome: How does one become an expert in combining function and feeling in a lighting system? Arturo Alvarez: Work, work, work, the experience gained from the years, from life, to be sensitive towards everything around us and never lose the sense of curiosity and surprise. Freshome: How do you start the process for a new light? Please tell us about the inspiration and creative process behind your beautiful creations. Arturo Alvarez: I imagine that I’m absorbing everything, colors, landscapes, trips, people, architecture, gardens, objects, from this point my process is to begin from an initial idea and sketch many possibilities in a notebook, this may take days or weeks, until I find the one I´m looking for, or I like most, or I see better options for it. Sometimes there are good ideas but technically or economically nonviable and I must finally abandon them …
Freshome: Do you use concepts or materials as starting points for your designs? Arturo Alvarez: Yes, sometimes yes, I don´t only have a single way to tackle the designs. The mixture of mesh with silicone, a material which took two years to develop, sometimes the material itself gives me ideas as it already has multiple possibilities of textures, volumes and sizes. Freshome: Did you ever have an idea that couldn't be turned into a light because the technology or material did not exist yet? Arturo Alvarez: Yes, the home automation system is advancing, to switch on a lamp from a computer, from any point at home or in the car, to alter its intensity, in the future this will be perfect. LED technology must also advance further, more refined, so that it does not technically fail and provides a good flow of light. Freshome: What differentiates a light for home from a light for commercial spaces? Arturo Alvarez: The idea is the same: to complement the decor in a harmonious way achieving a specific light effect. Before in commercial lighting, functionality was a priority. Since few years ago concepts such as well-being, comfort and enjoying oneself with pretty and original forms, which also provide pleasant light, is the most common and requested.
Freshome: How do you jump-start your inspiration when the muse fails to show up? Arturo Alvarez: I never go blank, I always have ideas. If I happen to get stuck one time with an idea, for whatever reason, then I leave it for a while and then return to it or drop it altogether. Freshome: What was the worst mistake you made since you became a light designer? Arturo Alvarez: I have made a lot mistakes, many kinds, but I always use them to learn, rectify and improve. Above all I look for honesty and excellence in what I offer. Freshome: Tell us about the most important events leading to your present career – like school, practice, team work. Arturo Alvarez: The most important thing is to keep innovating, searching for new alternatives, to surprise and not bore the public. Freshome: How do you see the evolution of lighting systems – from the light bulb to modern lights? Arturo Alvarez: Incandescent light is very warm and human beings still feel very attached to it because for many years it has formed part of our history. The fact is that we must inevitably move towards energy saving sources, and think that all of us must contribute in not continuing to squander the planet’s resources.
Freshome: How do you see the future of lighting systems? Arturo Alvarez: I see them controlled by computer, making a rational use of them and all with sources of low-energy consumption. Freshome: Please explain how your tagline "emotional light" helps develop your products – do you base your designs on how people would feel in relation to them? Arturo Alvarez: I will answer you with a wonderful story I was told today. One of our co-workers has a small son and in his house he has the standing Gea model, which resembles a female body. Well, this co-worker told me that his son likes to hug the lamp. It’s the nicest thing I´ve ever heard about what one of our lamps can arouse in people. |
| Contemporary Clothes Store in Miami: 100% Capri by Giachi Posted: 29 Nov 2011 04:28 AM PST
We recently received a modern store design from Giachi Architettura e Design, located in Capri, St. Barths, Miami. The project is entitled “100% Capri“ and represents just one element in the worldwide chain store. According to the designers, “the focal point is a lightness and airiness throughout, punctuated by speciallydesigned details such as the expanse of intricate wooden screens, elegant lamps diffusing soft light and diaphanous linen curtains creating privacy. Leather and wood floors, a white leather ottoman and the sound of cascading water in the atrium below, complete the serene experience that is this store located within the most exclusive shopping venue of the city. The distinctive white or sandy-coloured shirts for men and women are handmade from the finest cloth, the epitome of elegance on Capri“. We invite you to enjoy a virtual tour of this contemporary store and tell us if you appreciate its design.
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| Bailey Pet Furniture With Hidden Storage: Crazy or Practical? Posted: 29 Nov 2011 03:22 AM PST
Would you like to have all your pet’s needs organized in a single place, or control your dog’s meals by simply opening and closing a drawer? We recently ran across this Pet Feeding Hutch designed by Bailey Fine Pet Furniture, which can do all those things above. Handcrafted from solid pine, the unit has a total of three drawers, two of which you can fill up with your pet’s favorite toys, medication, food and so on. The bottom one features two incorporated bowls-for water and food. With a feeding surface (platter) situated 10" above floor surface, your pet will not be able to play with food, reducing spilling and mess altogether. The overall appearance of the unit works great with a rustic or vintage interior. Even though some may consider paying $550 (plus shipping fees) for pet furniture a bit out there, you have to recognize the utility of such a storage unit. So…crazy, practical or both?
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| Cleaning The Children’s Room Made Fun: Pin Press Posted: 29 Nov 2011 02:17 AM PST
If you were on the lookout for some playful storage units for your children’s room, here is an idea. Created by OOO My Design and discovered on Furnishh!, Pin Press in an unusual method to keep your kids occupied. The rods that come with the product slide in and out, which makes storing books and toys fun. According to the designers’ description, “Pin Pres is a kid's room shelf that makes the act of sorting up the room a playful experience where the shelf adopts its form to the toys, books and other things that are being stored. It is the only shelf that will make your kid actually want to clean up and declutter the room!” While I do not necessarily agree with the last part (because we published quite a few storage ideas that make children want to clean up), I like the creativity invested in this design, its crazy appearance, as well as the energy it inspires. Find it practical?
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| Accomodating You And Your Favorite Things: Hollow Chair Posted: 29 Nov 2011 01:08 AM PST
The Hollow Chair brings a new meaning to versatile furniture. Built from 618 individually cut pieces of Baltic Birch plywood cut out with a CNC machine, the elegant, modern armchair has vinyl upholstery and a simple yet effective shape. Designed by Judson Beaumont of Straight Line Designs Inc., this amazing armchair beautifies with its shape and allows further embellishments thanks to its hollow arms and space under the seat. Comfortable and helpful in any situation, the armchair is one of the many interesting creations constructed by the talented designer, some you might have seen here on Freshome, like the Little Black Dresser. Found on DesignRulz, the fantastic Hollow Armchair can accommodate a varied number of items, from books and toys to spa towels or anything else you can think of, so it could adorn any commercial, residential or social space. The designer explains the inspiration and use of the Hollow Chair: “This chair was designed to remove the excess bulk and 3-dimensional footprint out of a traditional arm chair. The chair, by itself, is a perfect accent to nearly any environment you could place it in.”
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| Striking Penthouse Adorning the 77th Floor of the Trump World Tower Posted: 28 Nov 2011 11:43 PM PST
Welcome to a generous penthouse that mixes opulence with modern elegance. Situated on the 77th floor of the famous Trump World Tower Condominium, with extensive views of New York, this place is probably a dream home for any American involved in the real estate business. Designed by architect Mark Cunningham in collaboration with architect Michael Gilmore, Apartment 77B is a luxurious 2,871square-foot home, with plenty of inspiring elements. The penthouse features 12-foot ceiling heights and enormous windows to the east and south, which flood each room with light and provide breathtaking vistas of the East River, the Manhattan skyline and beyond. At the heart of the home, lies a contemporary kitchen, complete with marble countertops, custom cabinets, and abundant storage. Also refereed to as the epitome of high style, this project ensures a high level of comfort and the feeling of living large. Have a look at the photos below and tell us if this is the type of apartment you imagined would “adorn” Trump World Tower.
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| 15 Modern White Homes Feeding Your Need For Immaculate Design Posted: 28 Nov 2011 08:20 AM PST White home exteriors seem to be a trend these days, and we know most of you out there are crazy about them. This triggered the idea of putting together a post that will quench your thirst for “immaculate architecture”. We decided to gather up 15 incredible white residences presented on Freshome throughout the years and remind you of their unique features. By clicking on each picture, you can see more photos and details about each project. Enjoy the ride and at the end, be sure to give us a hint about which home you like best.
Villa P is an original project developed by Austrian studio Love Architecture. The exterior of this home is truly mesmerizing, from the overall original shape, to the finishes and colors chosen by the architects. Strong visual contrasts are created: the turquoise swimming pool complements the large wooden staircase that connects the garden with the pool and further leads all the way to the upper floor.
Ysy House was designed by Nagoya-based studio Auau and is located in Seto, Japan, in a beautiful but populated forest, on top of a small hill. The charming asymmetrical shape of the residence is well adjusted to the building site and is interesting to observe from every angle. With a matte white finish, the home is very well differentiated within its neighborhood and is quite an attention-grabber. Compact and creative, it is a great example of a clever small home.
Here is another project showcasing a faultless modern design. Dinesh Mills Bungalow comes from atelier dnD and is located just outside the city of Vadodara, India. The exterior is absolutely fascinating, as the house seems to float on a spectacular pool, enriched by a lovely decorating fountain. Its turquoise color contrasts the white walls of the residence, giving the home an intriguing aesthetic effect.
Next up, we have a spectacular beach home that will surely appeal to your exotic side. Initially designed by Ron Sang in the 1980's, the current owners have recently renovated it, working together with Julian Guthrie of Godward Guthrie Architects. Everything about this building is captivating, inspiring peacefulness and complete relaxation. Just click the photo for more visual details.
Designed by architect Steve Kent and located in Santa Monica, this next residence seems sprung out of a postal card. With a simple rectangular shape, white walls and plenty of colors, 24th Street House looks like a giant gift box.
Villa Valentina is a modern residence situated in Miami Beach, Florida, United States. This glamorous home features no less than 6 bathrooms and 6 bedrooms. Its multi-level terraces and wide windows allow unobstructed views of the beautiful bay, while the strategically placed patio furniture ensures unforgeable moments outdoors- as if the beach were not close enough
Have a look at this intriguing architecture project which seems sprung out from a Sci-Fi movie! The "Ninety7 @ Siglap" house was designed by Aamer Architects and is located in Singapore. The design is said to be inspired by the magnificent views that can be observed from atop Siglap Hill.
Honiton Residence is a stunning looking home designed by MCK Architects which combines traditional elements with contemporary decors. The results? A fascinating crib with plenty of spaces for relaxation, a large outdoor pool that couldn't be more alluring and interiors that inspire freshness and good taste. We were charmed by the mix of bricks, timber and concrete which gives this home a rustic, friendly feel while in the same time paying tribute to contemporary architecture.
Here is a home from A-cero completed in "La Finca" estate in the town Pozuelo de Alarcón (Madrid). This project is smaller (1000m2) than the rest of the company’s project. Its dimensions turn it into a comfortable and practical house that offers a maximum life quality. Its modern design based on impossible angles and spectacular volumes make this building one of the maximum exponents of A-cero’s architecture. And a lovely white home on our list today.
This unusual looking residence called Dom Zlomu comes from Paulíny Hovorka Architekti and is situated in the small village of Kynceľová, close to the town of Banská Bystrica, Slovakia. The house has a beautiful natural surrounding landscape and overlooks the Tatra mountains.
Here is another residence with an uncommon, yet fascinating architecture. But its design is not the only unusual aspect of this imposing home. The Deronda Residence comes from Space International and is located in Los Angeles, California, in the Hollywood Hills "just under the shadow of the Hollywood sign".
We really enjoy it when we find a residential project that has to do with art. Sure, you could say that most buildings relate to art one way or another, but Villa VH en T was especially developed to house the extensive art collection belonging to the owner. This beautiful and creative home comes from Beel & Achtergael Architects, has a total surface of 862 m2 and is located in Flanders, Belgium.
Carrara House was designed by Andres Remy Arquitectos and is located in Pilar, Buenos Aires, Argentina. With a living space of 660 square meters, the home is located on an irregular lot and oriented so that it captures the best views its environment has to offer. The rustic stone works as a divider of the entry zones while beautifully contrasting with the white walls of the house.
Three floors of fun gathered under one roof and one name: the Nakameguro House created by LEVEL Architects. Constructed in Meguro-ku, one of Tokyo's municipalities, the residence features an enormous, three-story high slide. The 1,762 square feet property gives its inhabitants and guest the possibility to take the stars going up and use the slide going down when moving through the house.
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Our first choice is a residence designed by architects 
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