Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa

Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa

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Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa

Posted: 09 Sep 2014 03:58 AM PDT

Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa

Czech designer Lucie Koldova used a sustainable material to create a highly modern sofa design for Belgian design brand Per/Use. The contemporary sofa is made out of cork - an impermeable, elastic and fire resistant material with varied applications. In the case of the Corques Sofa, cork was perfect for sculpting a contemporary sofa which was then adorned with colorful Divina fabric from Kvadrat. The large-scale cork sofa was chiseled out of a single block of pressed cork, varnished and perfected to appeal to your sight and touch in a subtle yet unforgettable manner.

Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova 1 Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa

We know why we should use natural materials in our home, so this sleek sofa should fit right in an urban or rural modern residence. Flaunting a curvaceous body, this modern cork sofa withholds vital information in its beauty. The sustainable cork block is actually production leftover from Portuguese bottle cork factories, adding an eco-friendly dimension to the eye-catching design. Unlikely to dent, the durable cork works wonders in design whenever a designer plays with it. We’ve seen large-scale portraits done in cork bottle stoppers and push-pin stool/tables. It was time for something larger, that pushes the limits of this material even further.

Think about it, how would a modern cork sofa like this one look in your home?

Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova 2 Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova 3 Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova 4 Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova 5 Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa Corques Sofa by Lucie Koldova 6 Cork Sofa Revived From Bottle Cork Leftovers: Curvaceous Corques Sofa

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Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam

Posted: 09 Sep 2014 12:48 AM PDT

modern office 5 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in AmsterdamHow would you personally imagine the working premises of a large utility company? HEYLIGERS Design+Projects have completed the interior design for Nuon, a power company based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The new six-level headquarters is functionally divided into "neighborhoods", completely focused on diverse and flexible working. In addition, the building offers all facilities for its users: reception lobby with a water bar, restaurant with 650 seats, library, espresso bar, service center, conference center, and a sky lounge.

interior modern office Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam
According to the designers’ description, the entrance into the building offers an overview of the floors through the triple height area that connects all the levels via a complex set of staircases. The predominant tone is a neutral bright one with white walls, ceiling and furniture pieces combined with a light wooden flooring, adding extra warmth to the space. Here and there, splashes of blue, yellow and green disrupt the visual neatness of the overall scheme, contributing to a cheerful and dynamic ambiance. Find this place inviting? [Photography: Rick Geenjaar of Procore]
modern office 2 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdamarchitecture modern office Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 3 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 4 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam  modern office 7 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 8 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 9 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 10 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 11 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 12 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 13 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 14 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 15 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 16 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 17 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 18 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 19 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 20 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 21 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 22 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 23 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 24 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam modern office 25 Exquisite Design for Utility Company Headquarters: Nuon Offices in Amsterdam

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Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes

Posted: 08 Sep 2014 12:24 PM PDT

architecture modern residence2 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes
This two-level residence envisioned and implemented by Architects DBLAP takes advantage of a charming, lush-green site in Bangkok, Thailand. Consisting of a series of interconnected volumes, the project is centered around an inner courtyard, accessed easily from all rooms of the house. Predominant use of glass allows the inhabitants to enjoy unobstructed views of the surroundings, while at the same time flooding the interiors in natural light. Despite this high level of openness, privacy is ensured through the use of a horizontal white wall, visually protecting the street facade.
design modern residence1 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes
A roofed outdoor passage hints the way towards the house entrance. Step inside this Bangkok residence and you will first discover a contemporary living room design, with stylish arrangements. The main level accommodates all public spaces, with the kitchen and dining area situated next to the living zone. The bedrooms are located on the second floor, where the views get even more impressive. On the background of a neutral color palette, a black and white marble accent wall creates a striking visual effect. Wooden floors and doors add warmth and elegance. Enjoy the virtual gallery!
exterior modern residence1 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 31 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 41 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 52 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 62 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 72 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 82 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 92 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 102 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 112 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 122 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 132 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 142 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 151 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 161 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 171 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 191 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes modern residence 201 Contemporary Bangkok Residence Defined by Interconnected Glass Volumes

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Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

Posted: 08 Sep 2014 08:43 AM PDT

purple living space1 Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

The colors we use in our designs have an effect on our perceptions. Image Via: Jeneration Interiors

What's the first thing you notice when you walk into a new room? The colors. Whether your reaction is positive enough to make you think, "I have to remember to ask her what palette she used" or negative enough to have you leave you saying, "I don't know what he was thinking", we're bound to form an opinion.

It's because our brains are truly amazing. They pick up on thousands of tiny details per second, most of which we aren't even consciously aware. We then form perceptions based on these details and often act accordingly. Color gives our brain plenty of information to process.

Read on to find out all off the reasons our brains can't get enough of colorful interiors. By the end, you'll be giving your rooms an extra glance or two.

colorful kids room Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

Though color and kid’s rooms go hand-in-hand, don’t stop there. Image Via: Lovejoy Designs

Colors Show Our Personalities

When you really think about, our interior design choices say a lot about who we are as people. Every home needs the same basic elements: floor coverings, furniture and lighting. That would be enough to survive, but we go the extra mile to find décor items that we like and are aesthetically pleasing to us. It's not a stretch hear to he colors we choose say a lot our personality.

Researchers at the University of Westminster have found a link between color preference and personality traits. They found that individuals who preferred the same colors tended to share some of the same characteristics:

  • Red: Goal-oriented, determined
  • Orange: Energetic, happy
  • Yellow: Outgoing but well-controlled, persuasive
  • Green: Caring and helpful
  • Blue: Analytical, cautious
  • Purple: Comforting, values dignity
  • White: Peaceful, often good at organization
  • Black: Conservative, but also creative
  • Brown: Practical, excels at accomplishing tasks

Take a look around your home. Look to see if any the same shades that keep popping up again and again in your design. How do those colors match up to your personality? While this research is certainly not the sole determining factor when it comes to personality type, it's fun to think about.

green kitchen accent wall Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

Anyone who needs to relax their morning routine should consider adding a pop of green to their kitchen. Image Via: CTA Architects Engineers

Colors Affect Our Moods

As much as interior design is about how a room looks visually, it's also about creating an overall tone for the space. The majority of us would prefer that our bedrooms have a calming feel to them so that we can get a good night's rest. Conversely, our dining rooms and other spaces where we do most of our entertaining should feel lively.

As far as the field of color psychology is concerned, color is the simplest way to get your desired mood across Keep these hints in mind as you decorate your interiors:

  • If you want the space to feel energetic: Warm colors are key – red, yellow, and orange.
  • If you want the space to be calming: Opt for cool colors like blue, green, or a light purple

Regardless of what colors you choose, remember that balance is key. Too much of any one shade is going to seem overwhelming. Remember to add pops of neutral colors like black, white, brown, or gray every space. If you're not sure which colors go together, spend some time on design websites like Freshome to find your inspiration or reach out to an interior designer.

red dining room Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

Bring red into your dining spaces to get people talking. Image Via: M.S. Vicas Interiors

Colors Can Alter Our Perceptions

We're willing to bet that at some point you've wished your house had a bit more useable space. It's okay, so have we. Luckily, even when our budgets prevent us from moving into the luxurious interiors that we crave, the right colors can trick our eyes into believing that our rooms are quite spacious.

When decorating a small space, paint the walls in a lighter color like a pastel. Stay with a light shade on the ceiling as well. For those looking for the most dramatic impact, consider painting your furniture a similar color to the walls. The similarity will cause the two elements to blend visually, which will create a more open look.

Conversely, if you're lucky enough to have plenty of room to roam, but are concerned that your space may come across as cold and standoffish, go bold with color. Bright colors draw the eye, so place them on opposite walls to help tie the room together visually.

blue bedroom Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

Use similar colors for the walls and furniture to make a small space appear larger. Image Via: Kukk Architecture & Design

Colors Make Rooms Appear Finished

We all know the feeling of walking into a room that's unfinished: The walls are largely blank, there isn't that much furniture, and it just feels like some unifying element is missing. If you're one of Freshome's readers, you're probably also familiar with the feeling of having your breath taken away by gorgeous interior design, where every piece seems to play a part in tying the room together.

Color is that unifying force. By choosing a few shades that work well together and incorporating them throughout the room's design, you will create spaces that appear well rounded. If you're not naturally gifted at matching colors together, accessories are a great place to start. Pick a throw pillow or wall hanging that you love and use it as inspiration. Pull out three varying shades from that item and then incorporate them into your walls, furniture, floor coverings, and décor items. 

A note on choosing white: White does reflect light the best out of all the colors on the spectrum, so it's a great choice for rooms that don't get a whole lot of sunlight. But, again, it's all about balance. If you make white a dominant shade, keep the other colors as bright as possible. Choose a statement red couch for your living space or paint your kitchen island a bright blue to keep things from looking stark.

orange teal living space1 Why Our Brains Love Colorful Interiors

Focus on three colors per room that work well together. Image Via: Lucy and Company

When it comes to interior design, color is a hot topic. People either love a shade or they hate it, there's rarely much in between. On the surface it seems strange that one of the easiest design elements to fix would be so polarizing, but when you look at the psychology behind it, a strong reaction makes since. The post above outlines why our brains love colorful interiors. Take these hints into account on your next design project.

What are your feelings on color and the psychology behind it? Which shades do you find yourself drawn to in your interiors?

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