We are known for our work in the North Oxford Victorian Suburb Conservation Area, and whereas a lot of our expertise goes into renovating homes to meet today’s standards of efficiency and sustainability, you’d be wrong to think such factors weren’t at the forefront of these homes’ original designers… Here are some key ways Victorians made their homes more energy efficient: Natural ventilation - those elegant sash windows weren't just for looks, they were designed to promote natural airflow. Thick walls & high ceilings - Victorian homes boasted solid brick or stone walls and lofty ceilings, which helped regulate indoor temperatures and acted as natural insulation. Fireplace efficiency - fireplaces were central to Victorian living and many were designed with built-in dampers to maximise heat retention and minimise energy waste. Dual-purpose design - Victorian architects were masters of multifunctional spaces and many homes featured clever design elements like alcoves and bay windows that not only added interest but also maximised natural light. Rainwater harvesting - some homes even incorporated rudimentary systems to collect rainwater from the roof for household use – a nod to zero waste efficiency! Things have come a long way both in terms of understanding the science behind efficiency and the resources and technology available to us, but it continues to be an honour to help take these homes into the future and maintain the tradition of ensuring comfortable, efficient elegance. See yourself settling into a stunning, efficient Victorian home? Let’s talk! - pic shows the fireside of a stunning North Oxford Victorian Gothic home recently transformed and updated to award-winning standard. #victorianhouse #energyefficienthomes #sustainabledesign #architecture
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In Llinars del Vallés, Vallés Oriental, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, Alventosa Morell Arquitectes took a climatic approach to a home they designed. The single family residence, uses an array of methods to reduce the buildings energy needs. One of the largest contributors to the reduced energy load is the exterior walls of the home. Strategically placed windows and doors filter in natural light to the interior spaces, while also providing for cross ventilation throughout. An open interior floor plan, allows for easier movement of air throughout the interior spaces as well. The use of Castilian-sized solid manual ceramic brick adorns the interior walls and floors of the home, this allows for greater thermal regulation, as the brick has the ability to hold and diffuse heat throughout different times of the day and different seasons. The homes construction, allows for the home to be heated by a central fireplace and 4 spot radiators in the winter, and does not require any mechanical systems for cooling in the summer months. Beyond designing to reduce energy demands, designers worked with sustainable building materials wherever possible. This came in the form of sustainably sourced and certified wood for the roof and window frames, cellulose insulation in the walls and ceilings, and bio-mass bricks. The home will hopefully be a source of inspiration for designers when it comes to materiality choices, and how locally sourced and sustainable materials can greatly reduce the carbon footprint of structures. We’re all in this together #sustainability #sustainabledesign #sustainablearchitecture #architecture #architecturaldesign #design #build #builtenvironment #renewableenergy #renewablematerials #locallysourced
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A successful barn conversion relies on a unique mix of creative and strategic thinking. When you get this mix of creavity and strategy right, it is wonderfully rewarding. The strategy was implemented to convert these dilapidated agricultural brick barns, which were originally a stable block and pigsty, into a wonderfully modern and internally contemporary luxury dwelling, all whilst respecting and enhancing the external appeal the building fabric. The spaces created in this fantastic 5-bedroom dwelling comprise of light-filled open plan living arrangements offer a welcoming and spacious double height entrance lobby with cantilevered staircase, and a walk through vaulted and glazed "corridor of light" and standing seam aluminium "link" connecting the original barns together. The property also hosts "private and quiet" snug, office and gym spaces in amongst the open-plan living areas, which cater for a lively and busy household. The materials selected for the project were chosen to enhance the existing brick barns, whilst ensuring "agricultural" feel of the property was not lost. The design demonstrates that a modern and contemporary one can indeed fit nicely into a beautiful rural setting and be enhanced by the surrounding contact and countryside. #architecture #architect #architecturaldesign #architecturedaily #luxury #luxuryhomes #luxuryhomedesign #design #openplanliving #creative #StrategicThinking #strategicplanning #modernhome #ModernLiving #Rewarding #RuralLife #ruralliving #Agricultural #aluminum #light #Countrysidelife #architecturelovers #architecturephotography
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How Does a Dilapidated Austin Farmhouse Become a Rustic Haven? Transformation of an Austin Farmhouse into a Rustic Haven Austin Farmhouse Transformed into a Vivacious and Inviting Residence by Lake|Flato Architects San Antonio-based design firm Lake|Flato has reimagined a dilapidated farmhouse in Austin, Texas, turning it into an inviting and energizing residential abode. The Old Texture with a Modern Twist Desire to sustain the fundamental essence of the original structure guided the renovation process. The design firm retained the character of the farmhouse while infusing it with modern conveniences and ... The Design Elements The reworked farmhouse comprises two sections: the entrance area containing the communal areas, with the bedrooms located in the rear. The transition between the two regions is punctuated by striking steel-framed glass doors. Bullet Points: - The original elements of the farmhouse like reclaimed wood floors and ceiling beams were preserved - Modern amenities like polished concrete floors and glass walls added -... Hashtags: #LakeFlato #farmhouse #rustic #renovation #design #architecture #AustinTexas #steel #glass #natural #wood #concrete #outdoorliving #courtyard #modern Home with a Unique Character This Austin farmhouse makeover beautifully weaves architectural charm with modern living. It shows how heritage and industrial designs can co-exist, creating a unique living space, thereby setting a new standard for future residential renovation projects. More Trends?: https://lnkd.in/en4Df7eH
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When adding onto and renovating a home for our clients, we often incorporate some form of an outdoor living space into the design. Here are a few reasons why: . Increased Living Space: An outdoor area extends a home’s usable space. It’s like adding an extra room that lets you enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings. . Enhanced Property Value: Homebuyers are often drawn to homes with outdoor spaces that offer additional living and recreational opportunities. . Improved Lifestyle: Whether it’s for morning coffee, an evening meal, or family gatherings, outdoor living spaces encourage a healthier, more active lifestyle by making it easy to spend time outdoors. . Year-Round Enjoyment: With the right design elements like pergolas, awnings, or outdoor heaters, your patio can be used throughout the year, regardless of the weather; and, living in rainy Vancouver, this is super important! . Have a look at these outdoor spaces that @zimbadesign has incorporated into larger renovations. Which is YOUR favorite? . . . #zimbadesign #interiorarchitecture #theshipyardsdistrict #yvrdesign #residentialconstruction #residentialarchitecture #residentialrenovation #renovation #havanofficial #nvchamber #shipyardsdistrict #architecture #northvancouver #northvancouverhomes #houseaddition #houserenovation #homerenovation #vancouverrealestate #northvan #buildingdesign #buildingpermits #outdoorlivingspace #buildingdesign #vancouver #outdoorliving #architect #architectural #residentialdesign #renovation #lowerlonsdale
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Transform your space and harness the beauty of seamless indoor-outdoor living with our premium external Aluvu Bifold Doors. 🚪✨ Crafted with superior grade Anthracite Grey aluminium, these doors are the epitome of elegance and functionality. With the strength to withstand the elements and the sleek design to invite panoramic views, you can select off the shelf sizes from 6ft to an impressive 14ft configurations to perfectly match your architectural vision. Our versatile Aluvu Bi-fold doors, available in various configurations, include a practical traffic door for ease of access. 🔍 Moreover, each door set in the Aluvu range can be customised to your exact specifications – any RAL colour, size, opening type, glazing style, and more. Architects, home renovators, and construction aficionados, isn't it time your projects reflected the latest industry trends? With a shift towards aluminium’s robustness and the increasing demand for open, light-flooded spaces, the Aluvu range by LPD Doors Ltd stands as an impactful statement in any home. 👉🏼 Explore the possibilities today on our website and see how the Aluvu range can complement your next project. https://lnkd.in/e9sTWjdw 🏡 Have you considered Aluvu Bifold Doors for your next home renovation project? Let's discuss how a modern touch could redefine your space! Share your thoughts below. ✍🏼 #AluvuDoors #HomeRenovation #Architecture #ConstructionTrends #NaturalLight #OpenLivingSpaces #externalbifolddoors #externalfoldingdoors #patiodoors
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Perla Negra House | Residential Architecture | Costa Rica Project Background: Casa Perla Negra, set by the sea within a forest of yayos, is an excellent example of mimetic architecture. This idea entails mimicking features from the natural and cultural surrounds in order to achieve a harmonic integration of the building with its environment, reduce environmental effect, and celebrate local culture via innovative design and material use. Spatial Design and Design features: Modulation and Grid Pattern: The house's extended L-shaped architecture allows for cross ventilation. With a 5-meter modulation, it strategically distributes communal areas on the first level and bedrooms above. landscape Adaptation using Piles: Piles allow for integration with the landscape while limiting environmental effect. Laminated wood, which is resistant to maritime corrosion, resembles the verticality and transparency of nearby tree trunks. Camouflage is achieved by using dark hues that blend the building into its surroundings. Cross Ventilation: The home uses cross ventilation to create comfortable communal rooms that open out to the outdoors. Bedrooms provide comfort and solitude through cross-ventilation choices. Social spaces, such as the outdoor eating area, are totally open, allowing for a seamless transition between the indoors and outside. Additional mimetic components in the concept include: terrain Integration: The home integrates with the surrounding terrain, employing black to simulate tree bark and shadow darkness for hiding. Fusion and Camouflage features: Design features, such as vertical railings and enclosures, help with visual integration with the surroundings. Material & Color: Black not only helps the building fit in with its surroundings, but it also gives it a solemn and beautiful appearance. #architecture #design #architecturedesign #residentialdesign #sustainabledesign #archdaily
Perla Negra House / Salagnac Arquitectos
archdaily.com
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This corner commercial building in the MIDC industrial area was designed to stand out and become a landmark for the entire zone. The aim was to create a focal point especially for pedestrian traffic. We incorporated Vastu principles, using different forms to create a sense of curiosity. The brahmastan, a concept from ancient Indian architectural tradition known as Vastu Shastra, refers to the central, sacred space of a structure. It’s considered the heart of the building, promoting harmony and balance, much like a courtyard in traditional Western architecture. In this design, it serves as the focal point, bringing a sense of openness and energy flow to the entire building. The building is intentionally taller and heavier on the southwest side, while the north side is open, featuring a podium and swimming pool for a welcoming view. Fins were added on the southern side to block direct sunlight from the offices. Each room also has a balcony that provides shade while adding a stylish touch. The lower two floors are for shops, with offices, recreational spaces, service apartments, and a rooftop restaurant above. The façade uses clay tiles to reduce heat absorption, combining form with function. Milind Rode Rutuja Rode Priyanka B. Ar. Anand Kondhalkar The Pixomate Studios . . #CommercialArchitecture #UrbanDesign #ModernArchitecture #BuildingDesign #IndustrialArchitecture #LandmarkBuilding #MixedUseDevelopment #ArchitecturalDesign #OfficeSpaceDesign #RetailSpaces #RooftopRestaurant #UrbanPlanning #RecreationalSpaces #ServiceApartments #MIDCDevelopment #ArchitectureLovers #MetaArch #Architecture
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How Can You Transform a Small Parisian Attic Apartment Into a Spacious Oasis? Revamping A Small Parisian Attic Apartment: Tips and Tricks Designing a Jewel in the City of Love The ingenuity involved in transforming a cramped attic in Paris into a comfortable, spacious abode is absolutely commendable. This is all thanks to the creative minds at Tsao & McKown architects. Working within the confines of just 35 square meters, the duo has managed to create a miracle by incorporating vertical expansion techniques. They utilized the high ceilings to carve out more usable space thus turning this small apartment into a jewel in the heart of Paris. Creating Space and Elegance Their design method in making a visually larger environment involves using light and shadow. Throughout the apartment, white walls and ceilings reflect light which visually enlarges the space. Meanwhile, dark-stained oak floors absorb the shadows making the room appear deeper and more spacious. Functional and Cozy Not a square inch of space was wasted. These experts used innovative solutions to maximize storage options. Hidden underneath the elevated platforms, are pull-out storage compartments designed with great precision. Sustainability at Heart This urban lifestyle project also incorporated sustainable strategies. The architects designed appliances and fixtures to be energy-efficient helping in reducing overall stress on the environment. * Elevated platforms for additional storage * High ceilings for added vertical space * White walls for greater light reflection * Dark oak floors to create depth * Energy-efficient appliances and fixtures #ParisApartment #SmallApartment #InteriorDesign #Paris #SpaceManagement #CityLiving #CompactLiving #DesignInspiration #Renovation #Architecture #Tsao&McKown #Sustainability #EnergyEfficiency #VerticalExpansion #CleverStorage #LightandShadow This Paris apartment is a testament to the notion - "Small spaces can be turned into something grand with a bit of vision, creativity, and thoughtful design." More Trends?: https://lnkd.in/en4Df7eH
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Both office buildings constructed as part of Waterfront II will offer users enormous flexibility in arranging the space, because in line with Vastint standards, they will be column-free. Designers from JEMS Architekci also provided an extremely aesthetic, modern visual form of the office buildings: the front elevations are completely glazed, while the rear ones are shaped more flexibly. The architects introduced visual insulation in the form of wooden window frames and narrow strips of colored glass. The spatial layout of the office buildings allowed for the arrangement of courtyards, streets and squares creating convenient passageways. They will be greened as provided in a carefully developed design. The buildings fit into the aesthetics of the existing development of the frontage of Washington Street. A kind of reference to the arcades in the historic building of the Navy Command are the ground floor columns widening upwards. The newly constructed office buildings with a total lease area of almost 16 thous. sq m. are equipped with a presentable entrance with a uniquely designed vestibule. The ground floors will be intended for commercial space. Additional amenities include infrastructure for cyclists and charging stations for electric vehicles. #Waterfront #VastintPoland #ProjectbyVastint #ZamieszkajwGdyni #biuro #nowoczesnebiuro #biuroGdynia #WaterfrontNoweSerceGdyni #Gdynia
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Project Update: Three Double-Storey Dwellings in the City of Kingston 🏡 We’re excited to share our latest residential project, now at the building permit stage! Located in a vibrant neighborhood within the City of Kingston, this development features three double-storey dwellings designed with contemporary aesthetics and high functionality. Key Highlights: Design: The staggered upper storeys, pitched roofs, and three distinct masses create a visually appealing façade that breaks up the volume and adds character to the neighborhood. Landscaping: A well-thought-out layout maximizes landscape opportunities, resulting in lush front and backyards that reduce building mass and enhance the beauty of the surroundings. Materials: The combination of brick, axon cladding, and rendered façades allows these homes to blend seamlessly with the weatherboard and brick-veneered properties nearby. Additional features like window shrouds and pergolas further elevate the design. We're proud to contribute to the evolving landscape of this residential area, providing homes that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. #2bscene #2bscenedesign #architecture #luxuryliving #luxuryhomes #australianarchitecture #melbourne#residentialdesign #cityofkingston #modernliving #homedesign #sustainablearchitecture
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