Australian studio Shaun Lockyer Architects has recently completed the Browne Street House project.

This 3,550 square foot two-story contemporary home is located in Brisbane, Australia.

Browne Street House by Shaun Lockyer Architects:

“The Browne Street House is a reinterpretation of the Queenslander cottage. It reinvigorates the plan to offer alternatives to how spaces are used. The interplay and juxtaposition of the new and old is through material expression and form, and the cantilevered cottage is a deliberate subversion of the Queenslander paradigm and aims to recalibrate the perception of the house.

Using the kitchen as a “node” around which spaces are ordered, integration and balance between the indoor and outdoor domains is achieved. Access to north sun and light always shapes a great deal of the planning, and the manipulation of void and volume facilitate the transformed experience of the space.

The idea of craft making, primarily through the use of timber detailing, is very important. The control of view and amenity through the manipulation of window openings and selective use of screening also plays a critical role.”

Photos by: Aperture Photography
Source: ArchDaily via HomeDSGN

This single family villa spreads over 2,470 square feet, featuring a tasteful remodel that transformed the residential building into a dream oceanfront house. The Laguna Beach Residence – as the glass oasis was named – is located on a promontory, overlooking the huge stretches of water from behind transparent glass walls. An open gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and imported stone flooring – as we can see throughout the house – gathers family around the dining table overlooking calming ocean views. The sloping landscape allowed the architects to construct half-floors that give the impression of a larger, brighter space, separated into interesting horizontal planes, as we can see in the dining/cooking /contemplating space. From high up, a bright and elegant master suite opens up to a private terrace. Zig-zag terraces give the ocean facade a fun twist when looked at from the roof. From all the main spaces of the house, exceptional views of the island lights at night or the colorful sunset can be enjoyed by family and guests. Offered at $5,995,000, this magnificent oceanfront home could be more than just inspiration – it can become your own dream beach house if you budget permits it.

You're reading Bright Semi-Transparent Laguna Beach Residence originally posted on Freshome.

French studio Karawitz Architecture has designed the Passive House project, the first house near Paris to receive the european labeled certification “Passiv Haus Institut”.

Completed in 2009, this 1,905 square foot two story contemporary home is located in the city of Bessancourt, North of Paris, France.

Passive House by/ Karawitz Architecture:

“A house without heating system. The windows and prefabricated walls are so well insulated that the home’s primary sources of heat are the occupants and the sun. The heat recovery ventilation provides fresh air without heating process.

Principle: Successful integration in the site thanks to its double face, closed to the north to limit heat losses and opened to the south to benefit from free solar energy. Aesthetically, it is a sculptural and abstract replica of a traditional house.

Descriptive: A second skin with an open work cladding in untreated bamboo envelopes the structure in solid wood panels. This cladding, which becomes grey over the time, took inspiration from traditional barns in this part of the Ile-de-France region. It passes in front of the windows to the north and finishes by unfolding on to the roof. Identical shutters are fitted on large bay windows to the south to provide shade and light in the house, during the day or at night. Photovoltaic panels on the roof complete the program, producing 3 200 kwh/yr. The foundations are the only concrete element; the entire structure is made of the assembly of very large solid wood panels, which are prefabricated in workshop.”

Elevation 1

Elevation 2

Cross Section

Site Plan

Photos by: Hervé Abbadie and Karawitz

We recently received a press release about a project that will surely appeal to all of you out there keen on technology. Gas fireplace manufacturer Escea has just launched their new range of gas fireplaces, which feature a world first: inbuilt WiFi connectivity, and the ability to control your fireplace from your iPhone or Android smart phone. According to the information we were sent, “Escea gas fireplaces are synonymous with minimalist modern sophisticated style and design. This range of Indoor and outdoor fireplaces has proved popular with architects and interior designers, so If you’re renovating or are planning a new house you should consider Escea for your gas fireplace. Escea fireplaces come in a variety of heat outputs, various modern fascia designs, and a variety of fuel effects including black and white coals, New Zealand River Rock and Logs, stones and driftwood. These gas fireplaces are available in both natural gas and LPG (Propane)“”. Be sure to check out the video below for a better understanding of how the project works. How do you find this idea?

You're reading Fireplace Controllable by iPhone or Android Smart Phone originally posted on Freshome.

We received photos and information about a modern residential project located in Budapest and entitled KK House. Here is the press release we were sent: “Our planning agency, the Archikron Architect and Interior Design Studio planned and carried out this 270 square meter, two-level, self-contained house with a flat roof, in Budapest. The exterior of the house is constituted by mostly natural materials, such as limestone wall coating and timber panels. The doors and windows were made of timber with triple glazed windows, which is an important viewpoint in connection to the present-day energy costs.The interiors are characterized by a minimalist design.

Bright,white walls and flooring, wenge and zebrano veneer surfaces alternate to create visual appeal. The furniture is custom-made; everything from the kitchen units to the bed. On the first floor there is a living room, a huge, modern dining-room with kitchen, an intimate guest room with a bathroom. The upper level hosts another two master bedrooms with bathroom and two children’s rooms. We took note of the energy consciousness in the case of the house planning. A geothermal heat pump system is responsible for the cooling and heating system of the house. The hydro-thermo fireplace in the living room can also help with the hot water supply”. How do you find the interiors of this residence?  [Photography by Katalin London]

You're reading Sophisticated Design Characterizing a Modern Home in Budapest: KK House originally posted on Freshome.

Norwegian studio TYIN tegnestue Architects has designed the Naust Paa Aure project.

Completed in January 2011 for a total budget of $45,000, this eighteenth century boathouse was torn down, rebuilt and converted into a contemporary summer home by the architects.

This boathouse is located in Aure, a municipality on the More og Romsdal county coast, Norway.

Naust Paa Aure by TYIN tegnestue Architects:

“The boathouse is a cultural and historical hallmark of Norways coastal regions, where fishing used to be the primary profession. They have traditionally been used for storing boats and fishing gear, but today many of them are being converted for recreational summer use. This particular boathouse is located on the outermost reaches of the Moere-coast, and it hails from the middle of the eighteenth century. It was in such a bad state that the owner decided to tear it down and build it anew. The simplicity of the old building, its good placement and honest use of materials would become key sources of inspiration for the design of the new building. Great emphasis was placed on the main construction, the gates of the gable wall and the adaptable long facade.

The disclosed and somewhat unavailable location made material-reuse very desirable. Old windows from a nearby farmhouse were collected and sorted. The placement of these windows became key in deciding what distance to use between the pillars in the main construction.

During the process of tearing down the old boathouse it was discovered that the structure had been built on unstable clay-ground. The new building therefore rests on H-profiles eight meters in length, spanning across a crevice in the bedrock. The white painted main construction of the new boathouse was built on site. In order to ease the foundation work, parts of the wall construction is resting directly on mountainous ground.

The cladding is made from Norwegian pine, pressure treated using a product based on environmentally friendly biological waste from the production of sugar (Kebony). The outer layer needs no maintenance and in time it will give the boathouse a silvery grey patina. The gates in the south facade turns around a steel rod pivot and creates a sheltered outdoor area. The backlit cotton canvas gives a comfortable light, while the steel roof of the old boathouse protect the gates from the wear and tear of a harsh climate.

150 year old materials from the old boathouse is used to clad some of the indoor surfaces, and behind this cladding one can find most of the constructions bracing. A tabletop rested on old bullhead rails makes a working bench four meters in length, for gutting fish and storing tools.

An adaptable design approach and flexibility in the building process coupled with a high degree of presence on the work site have been crucial for the final result of this project. Rational choices in regards to material use, method of construction and detailing have given this boathouse its distinguished architectural features. The building remains true to the historical and cultural heritage of Norways.”

Photos by: Pasi Aalto

Source: HomeDSGN

Described as a “perfect romantic escape in a stunning environment”, Viceroy Bali is a luxury resort situated on a secluded ridge of the Petanu River gorge along Bali’s “Valley of the Kings,” an appellation given by locals for the generations of Balinese royalty who have resided in nearby villages.

The resort and spa consists of 25-villas, each with its own private indoor or outdoor swimming pool and private outdoor spaces with stunning valley views.

The property offers its guests one of the island’s top restaurant, a perfect spa perched atop a gorgeous valley with spectacular views overlooking the Petanu River gorge, a complete and modern gymnasium, a valley-top infinity pool and a library.

Villas can be booked all year around from $600 per night.

Lembah Spa

Terrace Villa

Garden Villa

Deluxe Terrace Villa

Vice Regal Villa

Viceroy Villa

Photos courtesy Viceroy Hotels and Resorts

Source: HomeDSGN

A stunning San Francisco Loft opens before your eyes when visiting this New York style apartment located in the award-winning former General Electric building. Interiors in exposed brick and timber are flooded by natural light coming from the large windows spreading up to the high ceilings. With hardwood flooring throughout and a private elevator, the fascinating collection of spaces of this elegant condominium will surely draw your attention with a detailed space arrangement. The mezzanine level offers soothing views of the main living spaces while sheltering the private spaces. Renovating this place brought out its charm and anchored the design, allowing the future owner to live and even work here. The two bedrooms can easily be transformed into an office duo, challenging the buyers to choose between spending their free time here or making money from this magnificent loft. Offered at $1,550,000 on Sotheby’s, the 2,220 square foot San Francisco loft should be carefully admired – you will surely find splendid details to inspire you.

You're reading Exposed Brick and Timber Interiors Flooded By Light originally posted on Freshome. If you've enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Freshome on Twitter, Facebook and Google+

In 2011 we could not help but notice your appetite for beautiful places of relaxation. This is why for today we gathered 15 incredible resorts across the world that were presented on Freshome last year. As usual, you can click on each photo for more pictures and details about the retreats. If you happened to see any of them for yourself, we would love to know the details!

#1. The luxurious 5- star Pimalai refuge blends with the natural environment creating unforgettable experiences for the tourists who decide to spend their holidays here. This boutique beach resort occupies 100 acres of tropical vegetation with direct access to a 900 meters stretch of pristine sandy beach and offers 121 accommodation units. Click the photo below and tell us if it manages to bring the inner serenity it promises.

#2. Southern Ocean Lodge is a luxury resort located along the cliffs of Kangaroo Island, Australia, within a fascinating natural landscape. The interiors of the villas feature lavish King beds, sunken lounge, dramatic glass walled bathroom featuring Southern Spa amenities and outdoor terrace with occasional seating and daybed.

#3. Como Uma Ubud Resort is located in Bali, Indonesia, overlooking the Tjampuhan Valley, in the cultural town of Ubud. The resort has a total of 29 rooms, some of which are terrace rooms with comfortable four-poster bed draped in white voile, garden rooms with access to the fish pond and seating area and suites. An incredible 25-metre pool offers a chance for guests to be surrounded by green lawns and tropical trees.

#4. Who hasn’t heard of the romantic sunsets in Santorini? Mistique Resort is actually the name for eighteen suites and villas located in this Greek island, overseeing an amazing landscape. We particularly enjoyed the fact that this hotel is not an opulent and extravagant one, but a piece of architecture perfectly integrated in the spirit and sceneries of the island.

#5. The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa Maldives is a five-star exclusive resort, surrounded by lush tropical plants and crystal clear blue waters. Located in one of the largest lagoons in the area, the accommodation units spread idyllically along a mesmerizing beach, providing a lovely relaxation setting for its visitors.

#6. 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. 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.

#7. Located where mythology tells us the God Apollo was born, the luxury resort called Mykonos Grand Hotel offers 32 square meter ground floor garden view rooms in blue or orange with spacious mosaic bathrooms, 33 square meter rooms overlooking the Aegean Sea – adorned with Greek marble and typical Mykonian arch separating the bedroom from the sitting area and 37 square meter superior sea view rooms with Spa bathrooms.

#8. The Ubud Hanging Gardens Hotel is a man-made attraction in Bali. The most striking of the hotel’s design features is a large, multi-leveled infinity pool, with curves that are said to copy the shape and beauty of the hills nearby. Guests can swim at the edge and enjoy peaceful vistas of the ancient Pura Penataran Dalem Segara temple, located on the opposite hillside.

#9. The Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia is a place where each room has its own infinity pool. Architect owner Nick Troubetzkoy has expanded upon his philosophy of building in harmony with Caribbean nature. The resort is characterized by the bold architectural design – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky.

#10. Casa de la Flora Resort is located in a secluded ambiance near Phuket, Thailand. Featuring a series of differentiated beachfront pool villas and suites and a presidential suite, the resort offers luxurious interiors for the perfect holiday  Designed by VaSLab Architecture, the resort features exceptional facilities, gathered on a 4,900 square meter property in Pangnga.

#11. Astarte Suites is a spectacular 9-room complex designed by Aygoustis Krousis and located on a cliff on the beautiful Santorini Island in Greece. Small, but with impeccable services, infinity pool, and unforgettable views, the hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway.

#12. This fascinating place of retreat is called Ayada Maldives and is located on the island of Maguhdhuvaa, in  Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll district. The resort consists of 112 luxurious villas and was recently open. The accommodation units have a beautiful warm and traditional feel and are fully-equipped, providing comfort beyond expectations.

#13. Composed of 8 modern resort units, Villas Finestre is a simple yet imposing beachfront vacation complex made of separate 500 to 1000 square meters villas. Nestled on a cliff’s edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the villa units are located in a small beach resort named Ixtapa, in Guerrero, Design studio CC Arquitectos constructed this welcoming set of villas as a natural response to the growing desire for privacy and luxury.

#14. Whether you are looking for fabulous vacation destinations or just browsing for interior design inspiration, this next resort can offer you both things. Located in Aghios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece, the fabulously luscious coastal resort Out of the Blue, Capsis Elite Resort awaits guests with intriguing interiors and contemporary facilities.

#15. The Alila Villas Hadahaa island resort in the Maldives promises a relaxing vacation. Designed by SCDA Architects, the retreat welcomes its guests with a surprising collection of inside and outside spaces. Featuring 16 Island Villas, 20 Island Villas with a private pool, and 14 Aqua Villas, the retreat complex is the first luxury resort in the Gaafu Alifu (North Huvadhoo) Atoll in the Maldives’ new southern frontier.

You're reading 15 Remarkable Resorts Presented on Freshome in 2011 originally posted on Freshome.

We received a press release about a project designed by architects Lipkin Warner Planning and Design Associates and located just seven miles outside Aspen, Colorado. Here is the description we were sent: “The owners had specific goals: a warm, modern, luxurious ranch house with lots of entertaining areas, a horse barn and artist studio, capturing views of all four ski areas. Exteriors are of Pennsylvania lilac block cut stone, metal and pressure treated spruce. The interior is an open floor plan with Colorado sandstone and reclaimed Bavarian oak floors, acoustically designed wood ceilings and alder and wenge walls and built-ins, giving warmth to a modern design. The owner artists’ hand is reflected in custom furniture and wrap around fireplaces with mantles of glass, wood and steel provided by Andi-Le.

The owners’ mutual love of cooking and entertaining is reflected by the restaurant design kitchen, wine cellar and entertaining areas. Floor to ceiling windows and sliding floor to ceiling clad glass doors brings the magnificent views in and connects the outdoor living areas. Landscaping and water features assure absolute privacy. An open floor plan of this 6,200 sq.ft. home looks out upon horse pastures, 1400 sq.ft. barn and 1,000 sq.ft. artist studio where one of the owners designs and builds custom furniture of steel, acrylic glass, and wood. A full home audio visual system designed by Paragon Technology , a 1200 bottle wine cellar, music room, restaurant kitchen and three outdoor heated patio living areas, the home captures what Colorado living is about”. How do you fnd the overall design of this retreat?

main level plan

upper level pan

You’re reading Picturesque Rural Villa Outside Austin, Capturing Views of Ski Areas originally posted on Freshome.