stuff we drool about

Omata Beach House

Designed by Herbst Architects, the beautiful Omata Beach House is located on the coast of Northland, New Zealand, surrounded by steep hills covered in native bush and ancient Pohutukawa trees. The architects had to take into account the geotechnical challenges of the site, including the threat of large rocks being dislodged by seismic activity and slips from high rainfall events.

The house is divided into three basic components: living, sleeping, and storage. The sleeping and storage functions are part of the plinth, which is low and clad in rock. The living pavilion is a light timber structure with glass on three sides, and is designed for outdoor living with easy flow between home and shore. It also provides shelter from winds and sun with a series of integrated screens and sliding doors. An outdoor kitchen allows for year-round al fresco dining beside a concrete fireplace.




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HOUSE ON LAKE COMO - Image

HOUSE ON LAKE COMO

Designed by German architectural firm J. Mayer H. this historic 18th-century villa on Lake Como was meticulously renovated to reclaim its unique character while integrating modern elements and and an eclectic color scheme. The villa's original facade was preserved, with refinements and new green shutters enhancing its timeless charm. Inside, existing surfaces and built-in furniture were unified with a monochromatic paint scheme, highlighting the villa's hi...
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Home for an Artist - Image

Home for an Artist

Tucked between meadow, wetland, and sea, the Home for an Artist is a tranquil cabin and studio retreat designed by Laura Killam Architecture on a remote Northern Gulf Island in British Columbia. The compact 650-square-foot cabin blends rustic charm with modern minimalism, honoring its surroundings while offering year-round comfort. Elevated on point footings and nestled among Shore Pines, the cedar-clad cabin captures sweeping views of the meadow, sandy beach, an...
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LA JOLLA HOUSE - Image

LA JOLLA HOUSE

Designed by The Brown Studio, this spectacular house is located in La Jolla, California, high above on a flat cul-de-sac lot with 180 degree ocean views. Inspired by Scandinavian farmhouses, the single-storey house has been designed with simple forms, clean lines and mid-century modern aesthetic. It features open plan social areas with sliding glass walls that unify the interior and exterior and lead onto a large outside deck and heated infinity swimming pool. A cov...
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