Connect with us

Architecture

Beautiful: inside and out

It is never about creating a building but creating a space or an environment that an architect strives to achieve. A space that is not only defined by its dimensions and usage but by the people for whom it is designed for. The Wilson’s residence in Kochi by architect Herman Fernandez stays true to this thought. An abode of light and fresh air, the house is a lesson in simplicity and finesse.

Published

on

_A5A9871It is never about creating a building but creating a space or an environment that an architect strives to achieve. A space that is not only defined by its dimensions and usage but by the people for whom it is designed for. The Wilson’s residence in Kochi by architect Herman Fernandez stays true to this thought. An abode of light and fresh air, the house is a lesson in simplicity and finesse.

Seeing green

_A5A9940The 3000 square feet residence is strategically located in the corner of a well maintained garden. This means that as you pull into the drive way you are welcomed by a view of fresh lawns and flowering plants. The garden is divided into three levels; the formal garden with a checkered board of Mexican grass and granite, the rear informal garden and the verdant terraces. Hence there is always a patch of green lingering at the edge of your vision. There is ample space for a gathering or a game of backyard football. The land has been laid out in such a way that every drop of water that falls leeches back into the soil. The client explains that a garden was of utmost importance to them and no house is complete without it.

The first look

The simple layout of the garden is carried over onto the exteriors. A play of open and closed spaces, the façade is of pristine white interrupted by stone pillars. Decorative railings adorn the terraces with creepers spilling onto the building from the wire mesh ceiling of the terraces. Strong horizontal detailing define the structure, be it the louvers on the windows, the wall treatment, the bold parapets or the cantilevered roof of the car park. The car park is not a defined space and is an extension of the garden hence opening up the plot and reducing the square footage._A5A9912

Walking in

The house has a definite effect. A sense of calm envelopes you as you enter the home. The well lit and airy rooms open out into each other creating an interesting volume. The skylights provided bring in filtered light that makes the space look larger than it is. The décor is minimalistic with white walls and neutral tones. The ceiling is designed with strip lighting that creates a point of interest. The floors are laid with high quality vitrified tiles and epoxy joints infused with glitter. There are two detailing elements that define the aesthetic. One is the burnt and brushed natural stone laid on the pillars and the other is wooden detailing on the stairwell wall. This detail is also carried over to the kitchen cabinets. The work is done with so much finesse that we are told each cabinet panel took a day to complete. Imported beechwood has been used to demarcate spaces (like the prayer area) and the natural color of the wood has been maintained.  The interesting use of the wood paneling is highlighted by the lighting design which mostly uses that of the recessed style.

The living and dining areas merge into one another and form most of the ground floor. The dining area has French windows that open out into the garden and is ideal for your morning cup of tea. Almost all the walls have large windows with a view of the garden outside. The open planning goes to serve the fact that most activities in the house can be monitored from the central family living room.  The open pantry kitchen is separated from the family living by a custom made family dining table. The unit also serves as a showcase and storage.

drawingroom

staircasebedroom1bathroom

Nail the detail:

  1. The strip lighting under the Kitchen counters
  2. The raised platform with brass detailing for the staircase
  3. Mirror lighting for all the bathroom mirrors
  4. The family photos
  5. Staircase wall detailing
  6. The bookcase upstairs

Having your own terrace garden:

  1. 25 kg per sq ft is the amount of dead load permitted
  2. There are different plant media in the market other than soil which are less heavy
  3. 6 to 8 inches of growth medium is required
  4. Fibrous root plants are the safest
  5. Use good water proofing
  6. There should be enough slope for water to drain out
  7. Use outdoor lights and furniture
  8. Keep track of the electric and water supply lines
  9. Consult a structural engineer
Advertisement
Comments

Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

Published

on

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

Continue Reading

Architecture

Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

Published

on

In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

 Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

 Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

 Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

 Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

 Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

 Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

 

Continue Reading

Architecture

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

Published

on

Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!

Continue Reading

Facebook

Trending