Transformers are a worldwide entertainment franchise known for its varying humanoid-type robots able to transform into everyday vehicles, electronic items or weapons. M House shares the same spectacular capacity of transformation presenting a robotic shape, unusual for a residential program. In California, there’s a one-bedroom cottage with 90sqm of constructed area that elevates the notion of flexible architecture to another level. Continue reading →

Conversion is one of the most interesting experiences in architecture. In Hampshire, England, an old stable was converted into a three-bedroom family home without losing its original appearance. Manor House Stables testifies the challenging task behind such an outstanding approach to ancient buildings. Continue reading →

An audacious concept transforms an ancient building into a fine example of modern architecture without losing its primary character… The Pool Shophouse conceals a mysterious journey through a series of old and new spaces that melt into a single spatial volume. This four-story building in Singapore has a total floor area of 367sqm and is placed between two existing houses with a prominent difference of height: in fact, the Pool Shophouse benefits from having the front and rear facade connected to two different realities: the back elevation demonstrates a contemporary aesthetics while the front elevation fully respects the ancient design of the existing house. Oh, and did I mention the amazing inner pool? Continue reading →

When art and architecture blend into a single element, the outcome is always surprising: Maracana House in Sao Paulo testifies this unique combination. A narrow site wasn’t an obstacle to achieve an exquisite three-story 185sqm home. Here, art receives a special place where inhabitants and visitors are always greeted by a magnificent tile mural full of color and movement. Red, white and black create a dynamic pattern that works as a welcome sign hiding the front door from the street. Continue reading →

Moliner House – a white cubical building – serves as the perfect house for a poet. Three floors where specially developed in order to separate three important activities of this particular client: living, sleeping, and dreaming. How wonderful! Continue reading →

Living in a landscape of lava and volcanoes… can you imagine such an enigmatic location for a contemporary house? Lavaflow 7 is a single-story building constructed on the big island of Hawaii. This unusual designation for a home is based on the following concept: a lava flow is created during a non-explosive effusive eruption. At a certain point it solidifies to form igneous rock. The concept of this modern Hawaiian house is based on a similar, yet artificial process that leads to a different kind of rock: concrete. Continue reading →

Corten is a steel material that eliminates the need for exterior maintenance while achieving that rusty look. Corten House is a contemporary Brazilian home that explores this outstanding material in a very profound way. Located in Sao Paulo, Brazil a two-story building with a project area of 360sqm gives a proper answer to a long and narrow site by exploring a vertical expansion of the interior program. A blind facade totally covered in Corten steel welcomes visitors and inhabitants, creating an unexpected sense of curiosity, as if it was an inhabitable rusty safe deposit box… Continue reading →

Tower House, a weekend retreat in New York, was built on the concept of a common observatory. Located in the middle of a dense forest, this four-story building with a total floor area of 236sqm offers complete views over the natural surroundings while providing the perfect spot to quietly watch the stars…its enigmatic shape invites us to a marvelous domestic tour. Continue reading →

When it comes to carefully blending architecture with nature, can a building reflect the human art of miming? An clear example of such a challenging task lies in Michigan: Yingst Retreat. Located between a dense beech forest and a lake shore, this residence has a total floor area of 372sqm constructed as a true ode to its natural surrounding environment. Continue reading →

A loft space usually refers to an upper story or attic positioned directly under the roof. Alternatively, a loft apartment is associated with a large open space, often converted from industrial to residential use. In Valparaiso, Chile, Yungay Lofts II demonstrates the flexibility behind such a fresh architectonic concept and its positive integration within a strong historical surroundings. The result: a bright combination of small colorful houses dispersed throughout a steep hillside. Continue reading →