Historic Convent Transformed Into Spectacular City Hall in Quebec, Canada

Historic Convent Transformed Into Spectacular City Hall in Quebec, Canada
Charming Duplex Apartment in Central Stockholm Infused With Light
Noke, the World’s First Shareable Bluetooth-Controlled Padlock [Video]
Gambier Island House Dramatically Integrated In A Rocky Landscape

Posted: 04 Sep 2014 03:23 AM PDT

The redesign of this historic convent (initially built in 1881) as the city hall and municipal offices re-establishes its presence at the center of community life. The project- repurposed by Affleck de la Riva Architects in Quebec, Canada- creates a dialogue between the restored heritage building and a contemporary addition housing a new entry lobby, an elevator and a generously glazed stair-tower. Creating a new entry on the lateral street is part of an overall site strategy that relocates parking to the back of the building and frees up the front of the site for a new formal garden. As a foil against the traditional elements of the historic structure – a mansard roof, limestone masonry, a sculpted wood gallery – the addition is conceived as a series of interlocking rectangular volumes. The vertical arrangement of these volumes creates an asymmetrical tower that echoes the old convent's central bell-tower. Combining artisanal materials like copper and slate with contemporary materials such as plate glass, aluminum and sheet steel, the addition provides a spacious, naturally lit lobby and up-to-date vertical circulation. The new city hall respects the interior organisation of the original convent, centered on an entry hall and a two storey chapel. An ornate plaster vault, decorative columns and stained-glass windows in the chapel have been restored and the space has been repurposed as the municipal council chambers. [Photos and information provided via e-mail by Affleck de la Riva Architects ]

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Charming Duplex Apartment in Central Stockholm Infused With Light

Posted: 03 Sep 2014 02:54 PM PDT

Everyday life should unfold in bright, open and ingeniously designed homes. Seen on Alvhem Mäkleri & Interiör, this duplex apartment in central Stockholm provides a dose of highly appraised Scandinavian design as inspiration for those who love bright urban living spaces. The Charming central Stockholm duplex apartment spreads over a total of 55 square meters, so the design had to offer a luminous environment fit for Sweden’s long and dark winters. Under high ceilings, the apartment unravels an inviting and somehow sober living space infused with warm textures like wooden floors and stairs, cozy throws and pillow plus a comfy rug.

Arched windows invite sunlight deep into the apartment, penetrating the lower level, while the upstairs mezzanine bedroom is flooded with light from the skylights. White walls bounce the light around, while a contrasting modern dark kitchen breaks the monotony and adds a stylish, contemporary touch to the overall appeal of this compact apartment. Not to mention there’s room for a dressing space and a cozy terrace to enjoy the frisk, fresh air.

Can you think of anything else you need to live a comfortable life in Stockholm?

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Noke, the World’s First Shareable Bluetooth-Controlled Padlock [Video]

Posted: 03 Sep 2014 11:34 AM PDT

Smartphone operated keys seem to be a new trend nowadays, as more and more people are drawn to the mirage of a technological, carefree lifestyle. The Noke Padlock envisioned by FŪZ Designs is said to be the first shareable Bluetooth-controlled padlock and addresses the frustration of constantly forgetting your keys. According to the developers, keys are easy to lose, they can be stolen, they are a pain to share, and if you share them, you must get them back. Built on the concept “no key, no problem”, Noke allows easy access to all the important things in your life for you and your friends. It can be used to lock the bike, storage door or any type of locker.

Here is more from the official project description: “We designed Noke to be the simplest electronic device you own. Once you’ve downloaded our iOS or Android app, Noke automatically finds and pairs to your Bluetooth 4.0 enabled smartphone. To unlock it, simply press the shackle. Noke wakes up and searches for your phone or a shared phone. If the phone is within 10 feet, Noke will instantly unlock so you can be on your way. “. And if you’re ever without your phone, simply key in a special access code through a series of long and short taps on the shank and the device will instantly unlock.

Have a look at the video below to find out more information and feel free to share your thoughts regarding this new type of padlock !

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Gambier Island House Dramatically Integrated In A Rocky Landscape

Posted: 03 Sep 2014 08:04 AM PDT

Developed by Mcfarlane Biggar Architects + Designers, Gambier Island House is an impressive modern residence dramatically integrated in a rocky landscape on Gambier Island, near Vancouver, Canada. The project was especially envisioned as a weekend retreat for a couple and their two children. Independent sources for heat and electricity had to be carefully examined and implemented, with access to the new house only being possible via water. Extensive use of glass maximizes the spectacular views, without compromises regarding privacy.

Gambier Island House showcases a minimalist contemporary design, with a simple genometry: “Two stacked boxes are perched on the rocky cliff, clad in wood, cement board, and glass to fend off the elements. Three-bedrooms and two bathrooms are complemented by an open-plan kitchen, dining + living area with simple lines to frame the amazing views to sea and mountains beyond, while expansive roof decks create a seamless connection with the spectacular setting”. The hybrid structure is mainly built out of wood with some steel and minimal concrete, in order to minimize its effects on the site. How would you personally comment on the overall design of this weekend retreat?

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