Petrovic Residence by Bojan Simic Architecture
A two story glass atrium flanked by symmetrical living spaces serves as a wholly modern addition to a traditional Victorian residence in St. Kilda, Victoria. Designed by Australian firm Bojan Simic Architecture, the addition references Victorian design principles, but interprets them through a modern language. Its symmetry, for example, pays homage to the strictly symmetrical plans implemented in Victorian homes. On their website, the firm describes the soaring atrium as a “time passage symbolically linking the early 20th century with the early 21st century.” Inside, a curvilinear vaulted roof and modern furnishings eschew any historical references. The spaces on either side of the atrium open fully onto a sprawling deck via glass panels that slide out of the way.
Villa Drusch by Claude Parent
French architect Claude Parent, whose work lies equally in written theory and physical structures, designed Villa Drusch, a home which embodies his “theory of oblique architecture.” Built in Versailles in 1963, the home is a literal embodiment of his theory. Constructed primarily of concrete, Villa Drusch appears to be a home turned on its side, a bold architectural move which still evokes interest today. Living spaces are encased in aluminum-framed glass, which naturally lights the open interior. A staircase inside follows the slope of the exterior structure, leading to a second level where the ceiling, contrary to the rectilinear exterior, curves dramatically inward. Most surfaces inside are also cast from concrete.
Samsung Fridge Concept
For a fridge that looks as cool as the items that will go in it, look no further than this Samsung Concept Fridge by GRO Design. Unique in design and construction, the futuristic looking refrigerator features door hinged functions to be installed both for vertical and horizontal alignments. Vertically, it’s practically a post-modern sculpture. Horizontally, it looks more like a piece of furniture and could be ideal as a television stand or tablescape.
More images after the jump.
Swedish Mill House by Wingardhs
In Malma, Sweden, the Mill House was designed and constructed as a modest vacation getaway where its inhabitants can indulge in the Swedish traditions of bathing and the sauna. Designed by architecture firm Wingardhs, the space is dominated by the sauna and requisite dressing/undressing areas. Water is a recurring theme throughout, with ponds bordering all sides of the home, and a pool for post-sauna bathing at the rear. Traditional Japanese design permeates both the interior and exterior of the home, with sliding glass doors, wood clad walls, and a translucent gable at one end of the bedroom. Dining and sleeping functions take a backseat in this vacation abode, which promises to provide its owners with as much tranquility as they desire.
Hadid, Complete Works 1979–2009
Taschen’s ‘complete works’ series, a collection of books detailing the projects of world renowned architects, gains another volume, this time featuring the work of Zaha Hadid. Hadid, a Pritzker Prize recipient, has received commissions throughout the world, and her work from 1979-2009 is documented by regular ‘complete works’ contributor Philip Jodidio. The sizeable book includes countless pictures of Hadid’s work, chronicling her gradual ascent to notoriety.
Catskill Mountain House by Audrey Matlock
Simple rectangular forms and fluidity between interior and exterior spaces characterize the Catskill Mountain House by Audrey Matlock. Prominent exterior features include white framework which extends past the home, tying the stepped exterior terrace to the glass-walled body of the house. A large cast concrete wall anchors the north side of the home and shelters the terrace, pool, and outdoor fireplace from a rocky slope on the opposite side. Within the home, uses transition from public spaces near the pool to increasingly private spaces at the other. Regardless of use, full height glazing allows for panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains from most rooms. The interior employs a mostly monochromatic palette of black, white, and gray. Heated and polished concrete floors underlie run the length of the home, complementing slate accent walls and ebony stained ash cabinetry.
Continue reading to see more images.
Arcadia Contract Contemporary Benches
For ultra-clean modernism created through natural materials and warm colors, look no further than the “Archella” line from Arcadia Contract. Designed by Christopher Panichella, the set is compiled of complimentary square, circular and scalloped shapes. Occasional tables and lounge chairs also available.
Continue reading to see more images.
The Carla Ridge Residence
After an extensive two year renovation, the Carla Ridge Residence in Beverly Hills has been listed for sale through the Westside Estate Agency. At $9.9 million, the five bedroom, six bath home has been upgraded thoroughly with the requisite palette of high end materials. Upon initial approach, the mid-century modern roots of the pavilion style home remain apparent. A characteristic low, flat roof and floor to ceiling windows allow access to the expansive patio and pool at the rear, while providing residents with an awe-inspiring view of the city below. The substantial use of glass also lends a sense of transparency to the home, as demonstrated by the clear sightlines from the front walkway straight through to the backyard. A subdued interior design scheme of black, white, and gray provides a minimalist backdrop for future inhabitants.
Continue reading to see more images of the Carla Ridge Residence.
Dwell: A Lot for a Little – Texas Home by Regina and Andy Rihn
Dwell has a great article on how a couple made the most of their low budget to build their dream home. When they initially made their foray into the real estate market in Austin, Texas, Regina and Andy Rihn had a meager $100,000 budget, and the prospective homes they toured were in disrepair and required significant financial investment to be habitable. However, their prospects brightened when Andy reconnected with childhood friend Amy Dempsey, who was working as an architect building low cost housing on the city’s east side. Dempsey partnered with her architecture firm’s owner and purchased a lot, where they each designed and built a home, with Dempsey acting as general contractor.
The resulting home is an open plan, 1200 square foot modern ranch, with an emphasis on affordable building techniques and integrated environmentally friendly features. Concrete block, Hardiplank siding, and a metal roof kept costs low, while carefully considered window placement and large sliding glass doors keep the indoor temperature moderate. The couple, who originally envisioned themselves in a 1930’s cottage, has come to realize that a vintage inclination can be reconciled with modern architecture with beautiful results.
Read the whole article over at Dwell.
l House by moomoo Architects
Thermopian, a plastic material typically used to insulate commercial roofs, is the chosen exterior cladding for the I House in Łódź, Poland. Designed by Polish firm moomoo Architects, the home’s shape is reminiscent of its neighbors, but with distinct modern flourishes. Thermopian was chosen as cladding due to its excellent thermal, acoustic, and insulating properties, and also because it can be manufactured in virtually any color. The front façade slopes up from one side to another and is partially obscured by an angled wall that allows the home to comply with strict local building codes requiring the front edge of a home to be parallel to the property edge. Construction of the I House is expected to finish within the next year.
See more images of the I House after the jump.
