Not that original sugar warehouses are a dime a dozen, but this open plan space might be easy to replicate given a few splurges. The owners of this particular loft have used beige (or natural?) linen curtains throughout to separate areas and, surprisingly, it seems to work well with the original beams and floors. Curtains can look a little fussy at times, but given that the fabric and color is consistent in this case, they look functional and appropriate to the decor.
Built in 1763 and located on the Bloemgracht canal and in the Jordaan district (the hot spot for lofts we’re beginning to realize) the loft also boasts a panoramic view overlooking the city. But an important note on the interior is it continued to remain in its original state for almost 250 years until the owners decided to add their own design tastes and choices. Uxus Design has this to say about the loft: “In keeping the original open-plan layout we created a series of dramatic curtain walls that could be opened and closed according to the needs of use. Made of luxurious Italian linen, the curtain walls are opaque when lit from the front yet transparent from behind. At night, the space becomes a series of glowing tents, creating the effect of a surreal interior landscape.” -LoftLife Magazine
[via LoftLife Magazine]
[posted by katie on November 24, 2009 at 8:08 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
This two family home in Austin uses so many large glass walls that it seems like an open air living space. Inspired by Asian architecture, the architects used large glass sheets to ensure spatial continuity between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Incorporating a body of water that perfectly matches the floor height further extends the space by reflecting light and, with a cluster of water plants carefully positioned so that they can be seen from various viewpoints, it adds a natural element that balances out all the steel and glass. Plus, take a look at that glowing garage and the sail used on the upper level to create a shady outdoor living space.
A few details/quotes from Dwell on the project:
The exterior walls of the Bercy house are constructed with Thermasteel, panels made from galvanized steel and a unique resin that provide structural framing, insulation, and vapor barrier with an R-29 rating twice the required amount. “We have so much glass that we have to offset it by having very efficient ceiling and wall systems,” says Bercy. “We wanted movable glass walls instead of tiny little sliding glass doors that pop off their tracks all the time,” says Bercy. So he and Chen tracked down the double-glazed, insulated, six-by-nine-foot doors rom a company called Fleetwood. “They’re a little more expensive, but when you slide the heavy doors open, you’re making a profound gesture to leave the house and step outside,” says Bercy. -Dwell
[posted by katie on November 9, 2009 at 8:17 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
Whoa, take a look at this kick ass hallway. Folding doors are located within the walls that swivel open in different directions depending on the privacy needed. I also really like the way they handled the exposed brick and white columns.
Reforma de piso
Architect: Alfredo Sirvent
Photographer: Santos-DÃez
[via materialicious]
[posted by katie]
[posted by katie on September 14, 2009 at 6:41 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
I stumbled upon the blog Building Green on Montrose where they’re tracking the renovation of a 100-year old rowhouse in Philadelphia. Besides being an interesting read, they’re providing some excellent links and references for materials. If you’ve ever thought about a roof hatch/deck, check out their post here.
Picture on left is taken from Building Green on Montrose (Update on the roof hatch).
Roof hatches shown on right available from Insula-Dome: Buy it here.
[posted by katie on May 29, 2009 at 3:11 pm. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
Sure, we’ve all seen some items made from windshields, but actually using the breaks and cracks of damaged windshields as a design element is something slightly new (to me, at least). I really wish they’d come up with better photography, but if you’ve any imagination you can see how this idea would be great as a shower door or, as shown above, as a wall divider or door.
Converting junk or damaged windshields into new glass products is a patent-pending process that we have perfected. While simple in concept it is a complex formula of art and science. We can add color to co-ordinate with other design elements. Second Glass can be framed, lighted, mounted, or hung just as in most glass applications creating attractive and easily maintained walls, dividers, fronts, partitions, and lighting.
Price available upon request. Buy it here.
[via materialicious]
[posted by katie on May 1, 2009 at 10:40 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
The ever resourceful Julie from Remodelista did a great post about steel door and window fabricators. If you’re in the market, I highly suggest checking it out.
Photos shown above:
top two from Bliss Nor-Am (located Syracuse N.Y.)
bottom two from Crittall Windows (UK)
[posted by katie on April 17, 2009 at 11:12 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
Yes, this is more expensive than any door knocker you’ll find at your local hardware store. It’s also an exponentially nicer design and is sure to dress up your entrance a bajillion times more than the others available.
This bronze door knocker brings old world craftsmanship and unadorned utility together to create a minimalist sculpture. The hefty weight of the handle feels good in your hand, and has slightly recessed sides to intuitively grasp. The bronze is a living finish patina, which will naturally wear and color according to use and environment.
1.50″l x 2.00″w x 10.00″h
$275.00, Buy it here.
[posted by katie on March 24, 2009 at 3:49 pm. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
I’m imagining these glass doors would work well for closet doors, or if it’s a really modern space, they would even work for dividing a kitchen and dining space or for creating a bedroom in loft spaces.
[posted by kris]
[posted by kris on January 23, 2009 at 10:27 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
I’m loving these large scale windows and simplicity of design in the Dowling House by Hackett Hall McKnight. Also of interest are these narrow doors which abut them, providing an interesting contrast.
[posted by kris]
[posted by kris on January 2, 2009 at 3:46 pm. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2009.]
I remember seeing these window shades a while back and now that they’re available for purchase I have to say I still think they’re pretty clever.
Paris. Stockholm. Helsinki. Tokyo. By night. Sun set or dark night. Sun light or street light. The city traces itself onto your windows. A subtle illusion.
Paris 120 x 200 cm / Tokyo 140 x 200 cm / Helsinki 160 x 200 cm / Stockholm 180 x 200 cm. Also available in custom made size.
Artist: Elina Aalto
€ 345.00, Buy it here.
[posted by katie on December 9, 2008 at 10:29 am. Copyright BLTD LLC, 2008.]