It’s been nearly six years since we purchased our Chicago bungalow. Today, I’m sharing all the before-and-afters of our home—plus what’s still on our to-do list. This May marks six years of living here, which truly boggles my mind! Time flies when you’re welcoming a new baby, surviving a pandemic, welcoming a second surprise baby, building your business, and renovating every inch of your home.

We bought this home when it was just the two of us, and within two years, we’d grown into a family of four. Initially, we thought we’d fix it up and stay for about three to five years, but here we are – six years later – with no immediate plans to leave.

A big reason we’ve stayed is our amazing community, and the second is that I’ve spent years upgrading, renovating, and curating every inch of this home to fit our family. Every single space has been touched and transformed, and it’s really hard to leave that behind! Today, I thought it’d be fun to showcase all the before-and-afters of our home. I’ll also share what improvements are still on our list as our family’s needs evolve. But first, a little history about our 104-year-old bungalow!

Built in 1921, our home is a classic red brick bungalow—an iconic part of Chicago’s architectural landscape. Thousands were built between 1910 and 1940 for our city’s growing middle class, known for their red brick exteriors, low-pitched roofs, and distinctive front-facing dormers.

Over the past century, many original details of our home were removed. In the 1990s, a second floor was added by simply “popping the top” off the first-floor brick. While we love the layout and tall ceilings upstairs, it lacks the architectural charm of a traditional bungalow. Other renovations over the years stripped away the craftsmanship that makes historic bungalows so special. We’ve preserved the front red brick and worked to reintroduce Craftsman-inspired elements—like millwork, doors, wallpaper, and thoughtful color choices.

But oh, how I wish I could see what it looked like in 1921! When we purchased the house in 2019, it hadn’t been updated in at least 30 years. Everything was beige—the floors, the walls, the trim. Before moving in, we tackled our phase one renovation:

We moved in three months later and slowly started to DIY the entire house room-by-room. You can read more about the budget breakdown for the phase one renovation project right here.

Our home has the following stats:
– Built: 1921
– Style: 2-story Red Brick Bungalow
– Location: Chicago, IL
– Bedrooms: 4
– Bathrooms: 3.5
– Paint Colors: Listed here

The living room was one of the first rooms we tackled. We made big changes in this space right away, tearing down a wall and replacing it with a ginormous steel beam. It was quite the saga, but in the end, we gained a much larger and more functional living room! This is where we spend most of our time. Our kids play here daily, and we love our Friday movie nights together.

I’ve been brainstorming a mudroom for the entryway and tinkering with a few ideas. The space behind the couch isn’t used much, and it feels like a waste. I’m considering removing the tiny coat closet and creating a wall of built-ins to conceal coats, shoes, backpacks, and more. I’m still debating whether to DIY the entire thing or use pre-made kitchen cabinets. Either way, I’ll keep you posted as I start planning—but expect some living room changes within the next year! Shop our living room here.

The kitchen was another room that needed a lot of work. This kitchen sold me on this home! I loved how bright and open it was, even with all the orange oak. Finn, however, needed some convincing. We lived with the old kitchen for over a year before renovating—a decision I highly recommend! We tackled the renovation in the fall of 2020—during COVID and with a newborn. Not ideal, but somehow, we survived! I still adore every choice we made.

Check out our kitchen renovation budget here. Shop our kitchen here.

The first floor bathroom was also renovated. At first, I thought it was odd to have a full bathroom on the main level with no bedrooms nearby. Now? We use it all the time! Finn showers here regularly, and it’s nice to have another bathtub for the kids. This room received lots of attention over the years with new flooring, shower tile, and a DIY wood wall treatment. The vanity and toilet remain the same and they’ve been fine for us over the years. I don’t anticipate changing this bathroom much.

The staircase was an unexpected favorite. Initially, I debated whether we should redo the railing and expand the laundry room wall right away. I thought we could wait a few years, but wow, I’m glad we did it upfront. With the wood railing removed, we had a metal one custom built for the space and added a new chandelier. It’s one of my favorite spots in our house, especially with our antique hutch which was a family heirloom.

Our laundry room gained a ton of space when we moved a wall during our hallway renovation. In Fall 2019, we gave it a full DIY makeover, and it’s been a game-changer! Can I just say how much I love having laundry on the second floor with our bedrooms? It makes life so much easier! Shop our laundry room here.

The main bedroom was also renovated. Goodbye, carpet! Goodbye, green ceiling! Goodbye, dated everything! During phase one of this renovation, we replaced the carpet with hardwood and DIY’ed a custom IKEA closet. After living in the space for about a year, we decided to take things to the next level. We wallpapered the ceiling, I painted the walls a pretty blue-gray color, and we added lots of personality with furniture and our new Frame TV. It is now a serene oasis at the end of a long day. Shop our bedroom here.

The main bathroom was completely renovated in the spring of 2022. We removed our outdated jacuzzi bathtub and put our shower in that spot. We then DIY’ed a linen cabinet for extra storage. Check out the full renovation budget here. Shop our main bathroom here.

Ellis’ room was also renovated. We went bold with a deep green for Ellis’ room, making it the coziest space in the house. I installed picture frame molding while pregnant and still adore this subtle addition to the walls. When Ellis turned three, we gave it a fun big-boy update! Shop Ellis’ room here.

The kids’ bathroom was renovated in winter 2022, adding whimsical floral tiles, gold hardware, and cute shelves. It’s the sweetest little space for our two kiddos! Shop the kids’ bathroom here.

The home office was also renovated. This room sat empty until winter 2020 when we tackled our biggest DIY project yet—custom built-ins! I also added a wall mural and new furniture, turning it into a stylish and functional workspace that I use every single day! Shop my home office here.

Rory’s room was another room that needed renovation. Our daughter’s room is my favorite room in the house. We took it from a blank space and added so much personality with DIY chair rail, custom built-ins, and the prettiest blush color on the walls. When she turned four, I turned the space into a big girl bedroom. Shop Rory’s room right here.

The basement was also renovated after it flooded with sewage in fall 2022. Now, it serves as a playroom, family lounge, and Finn’s office. Shop our basement here.

The basement bathroom was fully renovated in spring 2023. I gutted it myself, installed penny tile floors, added beadboard to the walls, and painted the space a rich, moody green. Shop our basement bathroom here.

The backyard was also renovated. During the summer of 2021, we did a full backyard renovation to take advantage of this space. We added a new deck, added stone pavers, and created a dining and lounging zone out here. In 2024, we added a pergola to the corner, transforming how we use the entire yard. It adds so much shade and installing the pergola was very easy. I even added some hanging lights to really create an outdoor room. Finally, we added an outdoor kitchen. Wow, this thing is amazing and our backyard is now the best spot for parties and entertaining! You can find the budget breakdown for the outdoor kitchen here. Shop our backyard here.

Every time I do a Q&A, someone asks if we’re moving, why we’re not moving, or if we’re buying another property. About two years ago, I thought we’d move. I even had real estate photos taken! But after a lot of reflection, I realized it just didn’t make sense for us right now. Our home is done, and pivoting to focus on home maintenance has been one of the best decisions for both my business and my mental health. The biggest reason we’re staying is our community. If I needed a cup of sugar, an hour of babysitting, or just someone to sip wine with and vent, I’d have a handful of women ready to show up in minutes. That’s rare, and I don’t want to lose it. Plus, we love our neighborhood school. Rory is thriving there, and Ellis will follow soon. With the school serving pre-K through 8th grade, we could easily stay put for years.

In conclusion, our bungalow remains home—and I love that it’s a space that has truly evolved with our family. From a blank slate to a warm, functional, and personality

Introduction to Nu.ma’s Bar in Aveiro

As part of a design competition, Portuguese architecture studio nu.ma proposes a new bar in Aveiro that seeks to blend into its context rather than dominate it. Planned for a garden area with the historic Aveiro Seminary in the background, the project prioritizes minimal intervention. The goal is to preserve the open feel of the site while adding a functional space that supports social and cultural activities.

Design Approach

nu.ma’s approach to its bar in Aveiro combines structure and openness. Two opaque volumes house the bar’s technical functions, while the main seating and terrace areas remain visually and physically accessible. A lightweight rooftop is perched atop the structure, its deep coffers adding depth to the luminous seating area. The open organization ensures the new addition does not act as a barrier but instead maintains a natural flow between the garden and its surroundings.

visualizations © nu.ma

Flexible Programming

The team at nu.ma positions its proposed bar at the convergence of three key pedestrian paths in Aveiro. Two of these connect major access points to the nearby University of Aveiro, while the third runs through Avenida da Universidade toward the Hospital and Aveiro Center. By situating the project within this network, the architects ensure the bar becomes an integrated meeting point rather than an isolated structure.

The building is designed with adaptability in mind. The terrace follows a modular system, allowing adjustments based on different needs and events. In addition to its role as a bar, the space will feature organic vegetable gardens, an aromatic plant section, and areas for concerts, film screenings, storytelling, and theater performances. This flexibility ensures it can serve as more than just a hospitality venue, evolving into a dynamic cultural hub for the community.

nu.ma designs a new bar within a garden in Aveiro, Portugal

Key Features

minimal intervention is a priority to maintain the site’s open feel and character

two opaque volumes house technical functions while a central open area creates permeability

deep coffers add depth to the luminous seating area

Conclusion

In conclusion, nu.ma’s proposed bar in Aveiro, Portugal, is a thoughtful and innovative design that prioritizes minimal intervention and flexibility. By combining structure and openness, the project creates a unique and dynamic space that supports social and cultural activities, while also maintaining the site’s natural character. With its modular design and adaptability, the bar is poised to become a vibrant cultural hub for the community, showcasing the potential for architecture to enhance and enrich public spaces.

Introduction to Spruce Ridge Cabin

American studio Altura Architects has completed the Spruce Ridge Cabin in the dense forests of Sylva, North Carolina. The home is situated nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, creating a distinctive microclimate that supports rare species of flora and fauna. To minimize environmental impact, the architects designed a modest structure with a reduced footprint. The cabin consists of two cantilevered volumes clad in dark cedar, and a footbridge leading to the entrance creates a transitional experience between civilization and nature.

The project was commissioned by a client with a strong commitment to environmental conservation. The location, a red spruce forest at 5,700 feet, presents a unique ecosystem that required careful design consideration. The evergreen canopy contributes to a delicate habitat, making preservation of the land a central goal of the project.

images © Keith Isaacs

Minimizing Visual and Environmental Impact

Altura Architects designed the Spruce Ridge Cabin to exist in respectful dialogue with the forest. The architects sited the structure downhill from the road and ensured a forty-foot-wide forest buffer was maintained to camouflage the building. A pedestrian bridge crosses this preserved woodland, enhancing the sense of separation from the outside world and reinforcing the connection to nature.

The home’s exterior cladding mirrors the tones of the surrounding red spruce forest. Vertical cedar siding on the cantilevered wings complements the tree-lined backdrop, finished with a dark pine tar stain for durability and insect resistance. The cabin’s base and connecting core are clad in cement plaster tinted to match the local granite rock formations, further embedding the structure into its natural setting.

Spruce Ridge Cabin is located in a dense forest in North Carolina at nearly 6,000 feet elevation

Interiors that Frame North Carolina’s Forest

In planning the Spruce Ridge Cabin, the team at Altura Architects made use of an efficient layout with a simple structural concept. Two cantilevered sections — one dedicated to shared living spaces and the other to private quarters — are unified beneath a single roof. A central stairwell and entryway connect the volumes. The design incorporates three porches that provide varied vantage points, from views of the forest floor to glimpses through the treetops.

The interior design incorporates warm, natural finishes to further the home’s arboreal atmosphere. Birch plywood panels and cabinetry create a cohesive aesthetic, while floor-to-ceiling windows maximize exposure to the surrounding forest. A screened porch with an eighteen-foot folding door extends the interior into the landscape, fostering an immersive living experience.

Environmental consultants and arborists consulted the architects to ensure responsible site management. Measures to minimize ecological disruption include an integrated stormwater system, a compact building footprint, and soil preservation techniques. Meanwhile, looking ahead to the future, a forest management plan further supports the long-term health of the site.

the cabin is designed to minimize environmental impact and preserve the ecosystem of the red spruce forest

a footbridge leads to the entrance creating a gradual transition from civilization into nature

two cantilevered volumes clad in dark cedar respond to the surrounding forest

Conclusion

The Spruce Ridge Cabin, designed by Altura Architects, is a testament to the possibility of creating a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature. By minimizing visual and environmental impact, the cabin blends seamlessly into its surroundings, preserving the delicate ecosystem of the red spruce forest. The efficient layout, simple structural concept, and use of natural finishes all contribute to a unique and immersive living experience. As a model for responsible site management and environmental conservation, the Spruce Ridge Cabin sets a new standard for sustainable architecture in sensitive ecosystems.

Whether you’ve just moved into a new house or you’re in the market to buy new furniture, we’ve gathered some expert advice on styling a luxurious home. Luxury, like style, is subjective and difficult to define. Many will think a luxury home consists of marble tabletops and sleek sofas. Others will think an antique French chaise and a chandelier.

Interior stylist Sarah Yarrow says luxury is less about one particular aesthetic and more about tailoring comfort to your lifestyle – i.e. a home that fundamentally provides a lovely space for rest and relaxation. “So much about luxury is about having time, particularly time to enjoy your interior spaces,” Sarah finds. “Luxury could be having a comfy armchair to sit and enjoy a coffee, or being able to have a rug underneath so you can walk around with bare feet and have it feel cosy and comfortable.”

Luxury is dependent on your home and personal style. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

Her advice for styling a luxury home is to seek out quality pieces, pay attention to light and smartly incorporate the things you love. Here are five tips on how to pull it all off.

1. Buy quality items

“I’m a big believer in buying the best quality you can afford,” Sarah says. There are multiple benefits to buying quality furniture items for your home. These include the longevity of your item, the premium look and the personal value it has for you. “Luxury to me is having those quality pieces which you can pass on through generations,” Sarah adds.

Beauty is in details. Furniture by King is Australian-designed, sustainably produced and built to last a lifetime. Picture: King Living

“Don’t buy stuff just to fill the room or to have it now. If it means waiting six months to get a really coveted piece, then I always encourage clients to do that rather than getting something you don’t completely love. You’ll never value that item.” King has an extensive range of high-quality, Australian-designed products that are built to last a lifetime like their Quay Table which is flexible in both length and style.

2. Luxury is more about ‘feel’ than ‘look’

You may think luxury is an aesthetic but experts tend to disagree. Luxury is more about comfort, feel, texture and multi-sensory satisfaction. Think about the quality of your fabrics and furniture, as well as their comfort level. “Consider linen cushions that feel really lovely and tactile, or a pure wool blanket you can cosy up to,” Sarah says.

3. Think about the light

Light is particularly important when it comes to choosing colour schemes. Sarah encourages thinking about the orientation of the room before committing to a palette. “If it’s a west-facing room, it’s going to get a lot of hot sun in the afternoon,” she says. “If you’re using oranges and really warm colours in that room, it’s going to feel even hotter than it actually is. Equally, if it’s a south-facing room, it’s generally going to feel quite cold and dark as it gets less light, so you’ll want to warm it up.”

If you want a large dining table in a dark timber, you may want to make sure you have the right light and space to accommodate it. Picture: King

4. Work with the existing space

Speaking of light and space, don’t work against the natural or in-built elements of your room. Unless you’re renovating, you may be limited by certain features and, of course, the dimensions. Take measurements and make plans to ensure everything fits properly. “A lot of people make the mistake of falling in love with a piece in the showroom or online and it doesn’t work with everything else they’ve got,” Sarah explains.

5. Be selective

Clutter is the enemy of luxury and, as Sarah points out, “there’s a difference between clutter and showing your personality”. If you want to display personal memorabilia like photos and souvenirs, be selective and smart about your styling. “For instance, if you have shelving, just make sure it isn’t cluttered with ‘stuff’ — only show things that are meaningful to you,” she says.

Just because you have a lot of ‘stuff’ doesn’t mean it needs to look cluttered and daggy. Picture: Pexels

“You might have a lot of inventory, but the way it’s displayed in terms of scale and proportion, the colour palette and the shape or form [of the items], is key to ensuring you’re connected with those items and that space. It’s not just stuff on a shelf.”

In conclusion, styling a luxury home is all about creating a space that provides comfort, relaxation, and a sense of personal style. By following these five tips – buying quality items, focusing on feel rather than look, thinking about light, working with the existing space, and being selective – you can create a luxurious home that reflects your personality and provides a sense of tranquility. Remember, luxury is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that feels like home.

Introduction to Villa Infinity

1/24

The transformation of Villa Infinity aims to improve the layout of the villa and its connection to nature, creating a more harmonious and functional living space.

K-Studio, the architectural firm behind the renovation, aims to honor the heritage of the estate while incorporating modern elements and amenities.

Design and Layout

The design of Villa Infinity is focused on meeting the evolving needs of its residents, with a layout that prioritizes flow and functionality.

Sculptural openings mark the walls, creating a sense of depth and visual interest, while also providing natural light and ventilation.

Social spaces are reconfigured to promote a stronger sense of connection and community, with an emphasis on shared living areas and outdoor spaces.

Vernacular elements, natural materials, and skilled craftsmanship are incorporated throughout the design, paying homage to the local culture and traditions.

Project Details

Villa Infinity is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and renovation, with a focus on creating a space that is both functional and beautiful.

The project features a range of unique design elements, including sculptural openings, natural materials, and bespoke furnishings.

The result is a space that is both modern and timeless, with a deep connection to the natural surroundings and the local culture.

The design team, led by K-Studio, has created a truly unique and special space that reflects the beauty and charm of the surrounding landscape.

Villa Infinity is a must-see destination for anyone interested in design, architecture, and the beauty of the natural world.

The project has been carefully crafted to provide a unique and unforgettable experience, with a focus on comfort, luxury, and sustainability.

From the stunning architecture to the beautifully landscaped gardens, every aspect of Villa Infinity has been designed to provide a truly exceptional experience.

The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, adds warmth and texture to the space, while the large windows and doors provide a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

The attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident throughout the project, from the bespoke furnishings to the carefully curated art collection.

Villa Infinity is a true masterpiece of design and architecture, and a testament to the power of creativity and innovation.

The project has been designed to provide a unique and unforgettable experience, with a focus on comfort, luxury, and sustainability.

From the stunning architecture to the beautifully landscaped gardens, every aspect of Villa Infinity has been designed to provide a truly exceptional experience.

The use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, adds warmth and texture to the space, while the large windows and doors provide a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

The attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident throughout the project, from the bespoke furnishings to the carefully curated art collection.

Villa Infinity is a true masterpiece of design and architecture, and a testament to the power of creativity and innovation.

March 19, 2025

Introduction to Dining Room Design

A dining room is more than just a place to eat—it’s a space where families gather, friends meet, and memories are made. Both practicality and visual appeal can be improved when you create a dining area thoughtfully. Making an 8-seater dining room with a wooden table in a contemporary setup requires focused attention on furniture selection along with lighting decor choices and colour schemes.

This guide will examine contemporary dining room design aspects to assist you in building an elegant, inviting dining area.

Why Choose a Wooden Dining Table?

Wooden dining tables represent eternal appeal while harmonising beautifully with various interior decor traditions. This selection provides numerous advantages that make it an excellent choice.

Note – Marble Top Dining Table: Timeless Elegance and Durability

Benefits of Wooden Dining Tables

• People value wooden tables for their extended lifespan combined with their enduring strength.
• Solid wooden tables crafted from oak or teak materials will endure countless years when maintained correctly.
• Wooden tables resist damage better than glass or metal tables since they cannot break or develop dents.
• A wooden dining table complements both contemporary interiors and classic traditional spaces, as well as rustic country abodes and industrial work environments.
• The complex grain structures in wooden materials bestow an elegant character to interior spaces.
• Wood tables today are generally constructed with forest-friendly wood materials and recycled lumber components.

Choosing the Right Wooden Table for an 8-Seater Dining Room

Several important aspects need consideration when selecting an 8-seater wooden dining table.

Key Considerations for an 8-Seater Wooden Dining Table

• Rectangular shapes remain the standard selection because they provide extensive seating while accommodating long dining spaces.
• Round or oval surfaces create warm spaces that enable diners to connect better during their meals.
• A square dining arrangement benefits from using square tables to create harmonious aesthetics.
• Oak is strong and durable, with a rich texture.
• Teak is water-resistant and long-lasting.
• Walnut showcases its dark, sophisticated beauty as an optimal choice for high-end rooms.
• Mango Wood is affordable, stylish, and sustainable.

Contemporary Design Elements for an 8-Seater Dining Room

Essential Design Elements

• Selecting suitable chairs next to your Essential Dining Table Accessories Set enables both aesthetic refinement and reliable comfort.
• Proper lighting sets the mood in the dining room.
• A thoughtfully picked palette streamlines the Exquisite Wooden Dining Table Designs aesthetic.
• Choose flooring materials that enhance the dining room design.

Table Décor Ideas for a Contemporary Look

March 19, 2025

If you’re looking for a home office setup that is both stylish and conducive to productivity, we’ve got you covered.

Whether your space is part of your living room or in its own separate area, here are a few simple enhancements that will make working from home that little bit easier. Creating a dedicated workspace can help you establish a healthy work-life balance and increase your overall productivity.

Invest in your desk and chair

Your work-from-home adventure may have started at the dining table or some other makeshift desk space, but this won’t hold up for long. Investing in a quality desk and chair is essential for your comfort and productivity. A good desk and chair can help you maintain good posture, reduce eye strain, and increase your overall comfort while working.

Shop second-hand office furniture for a supportive but economical home office. Picture: Pexels

You can find quality desks and chairs at a range of price points. A little Google search will help point you towards the top products. But if you’re short on cash (or even if you’re not) head to Facebook Marketplace to save some dollars. There are also sites like Sustainable Office Solutions, which recycles used furniture from offices in Melbourne, where you can nab some top-tier furnishings for a discounted price.

Think about colour

There are plenty of colour theories around which hues are best for productivity, but the truth is, the best colour for your home office is going to be one that works for you. The office needs to be a space where you feel lively and engaged, according to PPG colour category manager and expert for Taubmans paint company Rachel Lacy.

“It needs to be a space you feel positive in. The way to achieve that is by choosing colours that you love, not ones someone else has dictated to you or that are fashionable.”

The best colour for your home office is one you love. Picture: Unsplash

However, if you are still craving colour tips, Rachel offers this advice: “Yellows and bright colours, bright reds – colours that keep us awake and lively – are great for a home office.” She also notes that the best colour for your office depends on when you work in your office. If you’re a night owl, some of the deeper shades that are good in artificial light might be good for you.

Strong WiFi

Depending on where your home office is located in relation to your WiFi modem, you may find yourself struggling with an office-worthy connection. If this has been an issue in your home, consider investing in a wireless extender. An extender is a device that will pick up the signal from your modem and re-transmit it around where it is located, essentially carrying the signal further to guarantee a stronger connection regardless of where you’re sitting in your home.

Clear the air

There’s a reason modern offices have invested in more greenery. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it helps condition the air we breathe. Clear the air in your office by adding a plant or two to your space. If you’re new to the houseplant game, the peace lily is an easy plant to care for and it topped NASA’s list of the best air purifying plants.

The peace lily was one of NASA’s top air purifying plants. Picture: Pexels

Temperature control

Many of us have suffered through the icy blasts of office building air con, but this starts to look very appealing when working from home on a 35-degree day. Home temperature control can be a drain on our personal finances, not to mention a major distraction if we’re trying to work. To manage this more efficiently, consider some eco-friendly assists. Ensure your doors and windows are properly sealed to avoid heat entering or escaping when needed. Invest in double glazing for your windows or even some curtains that allow enough light while also keeping the sun out.

Conclusion

Creating a home office that is both stylish and conducive to productivity requires some thought and planning. By investing in a quality desk and chair, thinking about colour, ensuring strong WiFi, clearing the air, and controlling the temperature, you can create a space that helps you stay focused and productive. Remember, the key is to create a space that works for you and your unique needs. With these simple

Introduction to House X

Madrid-based studio Bojaus Arquitectura designs House X in response to the tension between its scenic location in Serranía de Cuenca, Valdemorillo, Spain, and the desire to inhabit it respectfully. Drawing inspiration from the ancient fortresses of the Castilian plateau and the traditional homes of Monsanto, Portugal, the residential project integrates with the rugged terrain while establishing a distinct architectural presence.

Bojaus Arquitectura situated House X on a gently sloping, rocky terrain characterized by a centuries-old oak tree, along with holm oaks and kermes oaks growing among massive granite boulders. The house’s design takes cues from Coderch’s Ugalde House, incorporating an X-shaped floor plan that adapts to the irregular landscape. This configuration frames views of the surrounding environment, emphasizing the home’s deep connection with nature.

images © Luis Asín

Design and Architecture

Bojaus Arquitectura constructed House X entirely from on-site concrete mixed with local aggregates, ensuring a strong connection to its immediate surroundings. The 50 centimeter (20 inch)-thick walls, built in 60-centimeter (24 inch)-high layers, include insulation between inner and outer concrete layers, creating a thermally efficient envelope. Exposed stones embedded in the concrete enhance the house’s aesthetic, linking it visually to the landscape. While conventional houses are typically designed for a lifespan of fifty years, House X is built with longevity in mind, aiming to endure for generations as a permanent fixture within its natural setting.

Bojaus Arquitectura designs House X to harmonize with the rugged landscape of Serranía de Cuenca

Sustainability Approach

With the design of its House X, the team at Bojaus Arquitectura approaches sustainability through long-term durability rather than fleeting trends. The thoughtfully-designed residence proposes an alternative model — one that prioritizes permanence over the often superficial representations of eco-conscious design. By deeply embedding the structure within the landscape, the architects ensure that the house, much like the surrounding granite boulders and ancient trees, will remain an integral part of the environment for many years to come.

the house takes inspiration from ancient Castilian fortresses and traditional homes in Monsanto Portugal

Site and Context

House X is positioned on a sloping rocky terrain surrounded by oak trees and granite boulders. The X-shaped floor plan adapts to the irregular landscape and frames views of the surrounding nature, creating a seamless integration with the environment.

House X is positioned on a sloping rocky terrain surrounded by oak trees and granite boulders

the X-shaped floor plan adapts to the irregular landscape and frames views of the surrounding nature

Conclusion

House X, designed by Bojaus Arquitectura, is a testament to the potential of thoughtful and sustainable architecture. By prioritizing permanence and integrating the structure within the landscape, the team has created a residence that not only coexists with its environment but also enhances it. As a counterpoint to fleeting sustainability trends, House X offers a refreshing approach to eco-conscious design, one that emphasizes long-term durability and a deep connection with nature.

Introduction to Casa da Levada

Hidden within the rolling hills of Penafiel, Portugal, Tsou Arquitectos completes this Casa da Levada as a single-family residence in dialogue with nature. The home is located within the rural village of Rua do Gondeiro, near the Tâmega River, and is designed to fluidly merge into the sloping terrain. Its architecture, defined by its cork cladding and green roof, reflects a commitment to integrating the built environment with the existing terrain, shaping the structure in response to the land. This approach lends both a visual and physical continuity between the house and the hill in which it is embedded.

images © Ivo Tavares Studio

Approaching Casa da Levada

Upon approaching the Casa da Levada, visitors follow a walkway which the design team at Tsou Arquitectos shapes as a paved groove cut through the grassy landscape. A deliberate separation within the structure distinguishes the social and private areas, creating a central courtyard as the focal point of the design. The house is organized around this courtyard, forming an inviting outdoor space for gathering while strategically framing views of the surrounding environment with horizontal overhangs.

Climate Control Solutions

Casa da Levada incorporates efficient climate control solutions to enhance indoor comfort. A water-based radiant floor system, powered by a heat pump, provides both heating and cooling. The choice of ceramic flooring improves thermal radiation transfer, ensuring an efficient indoor climate. What’s more, a Controlled Mechanical Ventilation (CMV) system with a heat exchanger maintains air quality while reducing temperature loss. Strategically oriented glazing, complemented by exterior solar shading and blinds, optimizes solar gains during winter while mitigating excessive heat exposure in the summer.

Tsou Arquitectos’ Casa da Levada is a single-family residence in Penafiel, Portugal

The Unique Cork Facade

Tsou Arquitectos prioritizes sustainability through material selection and construction techniques that reinforce Casa da Levada’s connection to the landscape. The house is clad in a unique skin of cork panels, a typical material in Portugal which provides natural insulation and durability, while a landscaped roof extends the terrain and further integrates the building with its environment. A stone patio is constructed using repurposed granite from existing ruins, ensuring resource efficiency while maintaining a historical connection to the site. These strategies contribute to improved energy efficiency, environmental preservation, and the long-term resilience of the structure.

with its low green roof, the house is concealed with the rural landscape near the Tâmega River

the structure follows the natural terrain, creating a strong connection between architecture and nature

the home is divided into social and private spaces with a central courtyard as the focal point

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tsou Arquitectos’ Casa da Levada is a remarkable example of how architecture can blend seamlessly into its surroundings while prioritizing sustainability and comfort. The use of natural materials, efficient climate control solutions, and a thoughtful design approach has resulted in a residence that not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also creates a unique and inviting living space. The project demonstrates a deep understanding of the relationship between built environment and nature, setting a precedent for future residential designs that aim to harmonize with their context.

New York Sunshine Redesigns Eric Emanuel’s SoHo Flagship

Artist John Margaritis of New York Sunshine completes the redesign of Eric Emanuel’s flagship store in SoHo, channeling a new energy to the iconic space of the sportswear brand. This bold transformation marks the fourth collaboration between Margaritis and Emanuel, following previous design projects in Manhattan, Miami, and East Hampton.

The store’s fresh design fuses the raw energy of basketball culture with the sophistication of contemporary retail. A bold feature in the space is a massive basketball sculpture, the highlight of the window display, echoing the spirit of the game. This element builds on the success of New York Sunshine’s massive ‘basketball bouquet’ display, which first captivated onlookers with its playful and vibrant take on the sport’s theme. The suspended installation prominently showcases the Eric Emanuel logo, reinforcing the connection to basketball that has long been integral to the identity of the brand. ‘This store has so much heritage in the city, and being able to work in a space like this is a real childhood dream,’ Margaritis shares. ‘It’s cool to have the best window in all of SoHo.’ The expansive glass window allows passersby to peek inside, teasing the sports-themed merchandise and creating an intriguing atmosphere that draws them in.

all images courtesy of New York Sunshine

Design Concept

John Margaritis’ project, New York Sunshine, evokes the energy of basketball locker rooms and courts through the Eric Emanuel’s SoHo flagship redesign, combining these elements with refined materials and finishes. Dark terrazzo flooring brings an urban sophistication to the space, while the crisp white walls provide a clean backdrop that makes the bold colors and materials throughout pop. Fixtures all around the store combine natural wood, marble, and metal accents. The layout also includes open shelves, glass cases, and hanging racks, designed to display the signature pieces of the brand.

Key Features

The rear of the store features a standout wooden shelving unit, where trophies are displayed, a nod to Emanuel’s deep connection to sports culture. Nearby, a green marble countertop adds a polished feel to the checkout, while integrated glass display cases beneath the counter present a curated selection of folded garments, accessories, and collectibles. A curved blue metal clothing rack showcases the brand’s signature bold-colored shorts and apparel. A modular racking system, inspired by locker room pipes, further enhances the athletic aesthetic, offering flexible and functional merchandising options.

John Margaritis of New York Sunshine redesigns Eric Emanuel’s flagship store in SoHo

Boutique Area

In contrast to the sleek design of the main retail area, a boutique on the first floor of the store invites visitors into a richly textured world of color, pattern, and texture. This space embraces a maximalist approach, layering intricate Persian rugs across the floors and walls. New York Sunshine’s eclectic mix of upholstered seating creates an inviting, intimate atmosphere, combining striped, floral, and geometric motifs into a harmonious visual experience. The U-shaped sectional seating arrangement, featuring plush cushions in deep red velvet, multicolored florals, and striped fabric, sets a relaxed, social environment while reinforcing the fusion of traditional and contemporary design influences.

the rear of the store features a standout wooden shelving unit

a curved blue metal clothing rack showcases the brand’s signature bold-colored shorts

Conclusion