Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

Link to Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Newsletter

Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Posted: 19 Feb 2011 05:52 AM PST

Casa Chico II was designed by architects Parque Humano. Located in a residential area of Bosques de las Lomas in Mexico City, the beautiful residence was constructed to be in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature. Following the plan, the structure’s glass parts open to bring the fresh air and sunlight inside. Neighbouring a protected natural reserve on the south side, Casa Chico II has an “L” shaped concrete structure that forms an opaque face in one direction and a clear opening to the other. Built on 400 sqm, the house features many glass walls that complete its modern look. The one storey house consists of many multipurpose areas that shape the library, study room, the covered terrace, the TV room and garden. A perforated ceiling in the living area ensures natural light and a contemporary design. In order to maintain the natural light in all rooms, the front glass facade is supported by pillars. This makes the home a magnificent open view residence.

Casa Chico II 3 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 4 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 6 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 7 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 5 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 2 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 8 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II 9 Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Casa Chico II Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below !

Click here to connect with Freshome on facebook feed Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass or on twitter feed Charming Modern Residence in Concrete and Glass

Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Posted: 18 Feb 2011 09:36 AM PST

Keeping history alive while implementing modern architecture looks pretty easy once we take a look at this next residence. The historical facade was kept intact but the interiors were designed to be a perfect fit in the urban scenery. Built in Melbourne, on a lot that used to be the Richmond Fire Station Stables, the modern dwelling you can see in the pictures is proof that past and future can look good together. The three bedroom house, for sale here, showcases an angular design partly hidden by a stone facade kept intact. An open plan kitchen combined with the dining and living room were constructed on the original part of the building. Beautiful stone walls merge with modern furniture to create an outstanding interior design. Windows, sliding doors and skylights were carefully placed to ensure natural light in all rooms of the house. A rooftop deck offers beautiful panoramas of the city with its 360 degree view. Other features include a two car garage, cellar, gym, second living and study room. Tell us what you think about this creative mixture of styles or if you think something is missing in order to call this home desirable.

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 3 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 4 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 8 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 6 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 15 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 16 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 12 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 11 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 14 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 2 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 7 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 10 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 13 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Richmond Fire Station Stables modern residence 5 Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below !

Click here to connect with Freshome on facebook feed Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features or on twitter feed Gorgeous Residence Combining Historic and Modern Features

The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers

Posted: 18 Feb 2011 08:08 AM PST

Showers in the past used to be comprised of just a shower head inside of an existing bath tub enclosure and that was it.  Today, showers have come a long way, and they are separated from the bathtub to give more space, versatility and visual aesthetics for your bathroom. Enclosed showers are enjoyed by many for the added benefit of having more privacy and still looking stylish. Open showers are becoming more popular in bathrooms that need to be accessible for all and they open up a small space to appear larger. Here are the pros and cons of open and closed showers.

shower empire state The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers

  • Visually opening up your bathroom: While the shower curtain is still a viable option for many, glass door enclosures or no enclosure have become more upscale and enjoyed by many home owners. Here are the pros of cons:
  1. Enclosed shower: PROS: Home owners that prefer a more private bathing experience may opt for the enclosed shower. Shower walls can be fully transparent, semi-transparent, or etched glass can provide more privacy. CONS: Some home owners do not like the glass getting wet and splattered with water droplets after every shower usage. The glass either needs to be cleaned after every use, or wiped dry to avoid build up of water droplets. This can be time consuming, and if you have hard water – more laborious than worth it.
  2. Open shower: PROS: The no barrier appeal of open showers opens up your bathroom and can give visual views of expansive vistas and views outside of a window beyond. This modern touch gives the feel of a luxury spa or high end hotel that home owners enjoy. CONS: Many home owners don't enjoy the open and unprotected feel of open showers. While visually appealing, some home owners still prefer to have a visual and physical barrier between the shower and the rest of the bathroom.

shower open view e1296427490745 The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers

  • Functionality for your showering needs: In many homes there is a case to be made for both types of showers. Many outdoor showers for swimming pools and beach goers warrant having an open shower and many guest bathrooms warrant closed showers. Here are the benefits of each:

o   Enclosed shower: Especially in guest baths and master bathrooms, the ability for guests and/or multiple people to use the bathroom at one time is a must. Enclosed showers give this versatility without users feeling imposed on. Enclosed showers also offer the user more space to store toiletries, and often sit down with enclosed benches, etc…
shower spa The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers

o   Open shower: In outdoor applications, open showers offer the benefit of running in and out without doors and the ease of quick access. Many outdoor pools as well as cabana baths that are designed for access to the pool benefit from the open features. Another added benefit of open showers inside the home is for those who need "zero entry" in and out of the shower. Also referred to as a "curbless shower", open showers enable a wheel chair, an elderly person, or a person needing easier access in and out the ability. (For accessibility curbless entry showers are also available with glass enclosures, but must be built larger for adequate clearances and mobility.)

shower outdoors The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers

Open and closed showers are increasing in popularity from the all-in-one showers and bath tubs from years ago. There are pros and cons of each type of shower, but depending on your lifestyle, and usage will help you determine which is right for your family. Before opting for either style, consider visiting a bathroom showroom where you can feel examples of each before they are incorporated into your home. Whichever you choose, it should give you years of satisfaction and enjoyment.

Freshome reader's, which do you prefer, open or closed showers?

Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below !

Click here to connect with Freshome on facebook feed The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers or on twitter feed The Pros and Cons of Open and Closed Showers