Thinking of Japan

One year later...

Finishes + Fixutures: Chrome's Comeback

When it comes to doing work on homes, it can seem like the decisions required and options are endless. One example of this problem is attempting to match finishes and materials- it can be overwhelming (and sometimes impossible) to achieve the desired appearance.

That said, a debate continues: when it comes to finishes and fixtures... brushed metal or chrome? Not too long ago, the answer for many contemporary architects and designers would have been simple: brushed stainless steel preferably.

But lately, we've been seeing more polished products in kitchen and bath design, as well as at door hardware, fixture finishes and other details.

Perhaps it's the influence of recent trends in contemporary kitchen design, where high-gloss, lacquered finishes are becoming more mainstream, with modular European designs installed more and more, with an increased influence on custom cabinetry design. For a couple beautiful examples of this aesthetic, check out Boffi or Porcelanosa, a company whose products we use quite often.

We've recently installed chrome fixtures and hardware in several projects, and when incorporated thoughtfully, they can add interest and a bit of sheen to any space. And don't fear combining the two finishes- it can work well and create some sparkle to your kitchen, bathroom, what have you... So, have fun with these details and explore what's out there!

Sydney Opera House: LEGO Architecture

For anyone who may be a fan of LEGO and/or architecture, March brings quite a treat, with the release of the latest model in its Architecture Series. As revealed in ArchDaily last week, the newest building to join the prestigious lineup is the beautiful Sydney Opera House, designed by Danish architect Jorn Utzon.

For those unfamiliar with the Architecture Series, it consists of a number of well-known and iconic buildings from across the globe, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water, Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House and the Empire State Building by architectural firm Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates. For more on the Series and the design process, check out our post on the Farnsworth House model released last year.

For the Sydney Opera House, the design team was definitely faced with a unique challenge in recreating the dynamic building, known for its great curving ‘sails’ that have come to define Sydney’s skyline. Addressing these critical elements in a modular format that can be assembled and re-assembled, while maintaining the very distinct character of the famed structure, is no simple task...

Fortunately, the talented Architectural Artists at LEGO have done the hard work, and as long as you are above the recommended age of 12, you can construct this striking building (or any number of others) without leaving the comfort of your home or office. Not to mention, the construction process should be a far smoother one than that associated with the full-scale version, which took 15 years from inception to completion, and not without quite a bit of controversy. For more details on the actual building (and a peek into our personal photo collection), check out this post, and enjoy!

Sustainable details: Reclaimed wood mantle

Though we've wrapped up our contemporary cottage in Laguna Beach a few weeks back, there are always a few final finish details that make a home. So, we thought we'd share some recent images of the newly installed reclaimed wood mantle above the natural gas fireplace. It adds a bit of warmth and texture to the space and is the perfect size and scale for the interior of this open plan design.

The natural material enhances the minimalist aesthetic while providing visual interest, directing the eye towards the feature wall with the fireplace.

We're looking forward to the installation of another significant interior feature- a sliding glass wall system to create a sense of privacy at the office, while still allowing light to filter through to the main living space. That should be moving forward next week, and photos will soon follow!

As always, many thanks for stopping by...

Remodel in Laguna Beach: Latest Photos

Hope you've had a lovely holiday weekend and the week is going well so far...
We're back to share a few images of a recently completed project in Laguna Beach. For all the details, stop by our website and check out the project's design page for the complete set of photos and renderings.

For more information, read the expanded post here, and thanks for stopping by!

XOXOXO...

Happy Valentine's Day from MYD studio!