Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

Link to Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Newsletter

Carbon Negative Cement, Green Construction Material of The Year 2011

Posted: 24 Aug 2011 07:16 AM PDT

Novacem Carbon Negative Cement Carbon Negative Cement, Green Construction Material of The Year 2011

Material ConneXion, an international team with a wide spectrum of material expertise recently awarded its material of the year prize to Novacem for an  innovative discovery called carbon negative cement. According to the producers, this material is based on magnesium silicates. This means it not only requires less heating but it is also able to absorb CO2 from the environment as it hardens, making it a “green” construction product. “Our award for Material of the Year celebrates the power of material innovation to enhance the world in which we live—from our built environment to the designs that we interact with on a daily basis,” asserted George M. Beylerian, Founder & CEO of Material ConneXion. As you are probably aware, regular cement is responsible for a large quantity of CO2 emissions, which is probably why this innovation made its way to the top in the world of construction materials.

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Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Posted: 24 Aug 2011 05:12 AM PDT

Westlake Drive house Freshome01 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

The Westlake Drive house was designed by James D. LaRue Architects and is located a hillside landscape, in Austin, Texas. Here is a description from the architects concerning its design and structure: “This 4,722 square foot home consists of three separate building structures, each housing different functions but all flawlessly connected by bridges, breezeways and 'streets'. A cantilevered steel entry bridge hovers over an impressive, cave stone covered retaining wall creating a sunken garden below with a cool continuous breeze. An abundance of windows, a glass enclosed bridge to the Master Suite and a glass lined stairwell allow for golf course views from nearly every room while erasing the separation of indoors and outdoors.  Stone walls that continue from the exterior to interior, lend in drawing nature inside. Complete with a pool, outdoor kitchen, fireplaces and several seating areas, the outdoor living space blends naturally with the surrounding environment creating a modern but warm appearance. Despite the challenging terrain, this sophisticated, Texas contemporary home merges with ease into the hillside presenting a sophisticated look to the passing golfers while enjoying a coveted view of the golf course“. We are interested in knowing your opinions regarding the exterior of this imposing residence. Do you enjoy stone walls more than contemporary glass & concrete designs?

Westlake Drive house Freshome02 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome03 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome04 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome05 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome06 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome07 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome08 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome09 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome10 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome11 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

Westlake Drive house Freshome12 Sophisticated Texas Residence Integrated in a Peaceful Natural Landscape

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Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

Posted: 24 Aug 2011 04:13 AM PDT

image Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

Design Studio Quarterre have launched their first range of Furniture For Bikes, which can still be seen at the cult East London cyclists' hub, at the London Design Festival 2011. Here is some information from the press release we were sent: “Designed to support everyday life on two wheels, these premium pieces unite cycling culture with interior design.The four Quarterre designers hail from multi-disciplinary backgrounds including automotive design. Driven by personal passions for cycling, the designers sought to address the challenges of owning a bike in an urban environment. Applying their technical expertise and knowledge of materials to bike storage, Quarterre has crafted this range of sculptural stands with a meticulous and measured eye. Rather than bikes creating assault courses in hallways, being relegated to the shed or the office back room, Quarterre's range of stands are effective and highly aesthetic storage solutions designed to seamlessly and elegantly integrate cycling with work or home environments”. Do you find these ideas practical? What other bike storage solutions did you come across lately?

branchline bamboo view midsize 01 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

branchline bamboo view midsize 03 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

branchline laminate view midsize 03 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

hood view midsize 01 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

hood view midsize 04 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

shadow view midsize 01 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

shadow view midsize 02 Elegant Bike Storage Solutions by Design Studio Quarterre

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Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Posted: 24 Aug 2011 03:11 AM PDT

Residence Zanzibar The Pool 4 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

The Residence Zanzibar was designed by design firm HBA / Hirsch Bedner Associates and is a fascinating resort located on a remote corner of the island of Zanzibar. Here is the information we were recently sent by the project developers: “Stretching over 80 acres, the 66 villas designed by HBA boast a colonial theme and draw inspiration from the Swahili, Omani, British and Indian cultures present in Zanzibar. Each villa has its own oasis with a private terrace and swimming pool, but the structures remain modern and natural, fitting in with the surroundings. David T'Kint and Hazlin Ahmad, HBA Associates noted, "We found Zanzibar to be a great resource for inspiration and sourced many of the artifacts and furnishings in the villas from local markets and shops." All pieces of furniture at The Residence Zanzibar are a mix of cultures reflecting the various influences in Zanzibar's history.  For example, the four poster bed in the villas are reminiscent of British style and is flanked by two nightstands inspired by Indian forms and materials such as beaten metal.  In the bathroom, the vanity counter was custom designed to integrate simplified Swahili patterns while the wall sconces were drawn from traditional Omani motifs.

Residence Zanzibar The Pool 1 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Locally sourced artifacts found throughout The Residence include hand-painted artwork with various scenes of Zanzibar as well as commissioned photographs of Dhows – the Arab sailing vessel.  All of the buildings house a collection of interesting items including carved trunks in the Lobby, oversized Omani tea and coffee kettles in the Pavilion Restaurant, traditional Stonetown doors in the Dining Room and local handmade vases in The Spa. In the villas, HBA used a color scheme of white and delicate shades of beige with honey colored woods and sandy tiles.  The result is a romantic and distinct setting where guests can indulge in a sophisticated environment.” Find it summer-inspiring?

Residence Zanzibar The Dining Room 2 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar The spa entrance Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar Room 2 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar The Spa whirlpool Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

 

Residence Zanzibar Room 1 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar Room 3 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar Spa pavillon 2 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

 

Residence Zanzibar The Dining Room Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar The dining room 4 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar Presidential Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar Fitness Center Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar Room Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar The Pool 3 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar The Pool 8 Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar The Spa Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

Residence Zanzibar SUNSET Exotic Villa Resort With a Multicultural Design Inspiration: Residence Zanzibar by HBA

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Furniture Piece with An Attitude: Rhino Chair

Posted: 24 Aug 2011 01:43 AM PDT

rhino04 Furniture Piece with An Attitude: Rhino Chair

The Rhino Chair was designed by Spanish designer Maximo Riera and it is what we like to call a seating unit with a strong attitude. After all, it is not everyday designers choose to mix furniture with the mightiness of a rhino, while conserving its natural proportions. It is not the first time that Maximo Riera dazzles the mind with his designs. If you recall, not too long ago, we had another interesting feature on Freshome called “the Octopus Chair“. According to the designer, the project was created by using a strong inner frame along its body for stability and balance. We imagine this would be an interesting looking chair for a manager’s office. Rhino Chair can be observed live in detail at 100% design London from September 22 to 25, 2011. Makes quite a strong impression, wouldn’t you say?

rhino01 Furniture Piece with An Attitude: Rhino Chair

rhino02 Furniture Piece with An Attitude: Rhino Chair

rhino03 Furniture Piece with An Attitude: Rhino Chair

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How to Choose the Perfect Glazed Doors for your Porch

Posted: 23 Aug 2011 09:19 AM PDT

Your porch or some call it patio often has doors that can give you direct access inside your home. Whether yours are solid or glazed (with windows), choosing how this door operates and looks are important. Glazed doors are a great way to let in light, and to have a visual connection with the outdoors.  Your lifestyle and decorative style of your space can vary your door glazing. Read on to see how to choose the right glazed door for your porch.
patio doors modern e1288455106528 How to Choose the Perfect Glazed Doors for your Porch

  • Function of your space: Depending on where your porch leads to can have a strong determining factor of what type of door to choose. For example a porch that leads off a master bedroom may look beautiful with French doors with paned windows. While a door off of a basement space may only require a half window glazed door. Choose the amount of glass desired by the function your space is serving. Basement spaces can be more utilitarian while a master bedroom is more for aesthetics.

patio doors french e1288455294868 How to Choose the Perfect Glazed Doors for your Porch

  • Safety glazed doors: If you desire full glass sliding doors to access your porch, safety tempered glass should be used. Tempered glass if broken will break into tiny pieces as opposed to shards of glass that could hurt someone. Depending on your locality, if you’re a pool owner a slider glass door is required to have a child safety pin lock on it.  This is usually a hole in the door frame with a pin that is inserted by an adult. This avoids children accidentally getting into pool areas unattended.  Ensure you choose to have glass doors near a pool that is safe and secure.
  • Window wall doors: Access to your porch can also be achieved through window wall doors which open up to the outdoors. Window wall doors are similar to pocket doors but they slide in a track that allows individual glass wall panels to slide to one area and leaves a breathtaking wall of openness. Many luxury homes use these to join an adjacent outdoor room, lanai, and indoor living space together to create one large space when needed.

patio doors modern How to Choose the Perfect Glazed Doors for your Porch

  • Large single pane: Special order glazed doors can house one single pane of glass that will act as one giant door. Used in modern architecture and interiors, these doors usually span from ceiling to floor and give uninterrupted views of the outdoors. For ideas of what type of door will fit your décor style, visit glazing door manufacturers online for galleries and ideas.
  • Choose doors by your location: Porch doors should be appropriate to the climate and geography in which your home is located. Large spans of glass may not be appropriate in a hurricane prone island home and double pane insulated doors should be used in a mountain home retreat.  Be mindful of your location when choosing, but most areas have an array of doors that will fit most homes!

patio doors window wall e1288455559157 How to Choose the Perfect Glazed Doors for your Porch

Glass doors for your patio have a multitude of options and applications for the smallest apartment to the largest of homes. Take into account your budget, lifestyle, and house décor to make the right decision for your home. Let the beautiful outdoors in with charming glazed doors in an array of styles to meet your function!

Freshome readers what type of porch doors do you prefer? Do you think you'd like French doors or modern expansive glass? Share with us your ideas!

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