Sheila Kim
The ceiling has progressed from a simple surface above one’s head to an opportunity to create a dramatic backdrop or even focal point thanks to a slew of products and materials that are highly adaptable or modular — as well as the vision of the architect or interior designer, of course. (Or, in the case…
Sometimes a space or occasion calls for objects truly out of the ordinary — a showstopper of sorts. A number of inventive lighting designs are answering that call, filling a need not only for illumination, but whimsy, diversion, and discussion. We take a look at seven such conversation pieces. Keha3’s Throat comes “alive” on walls…
These recent architectural glass products are drawing on pattern, texture, or technique to meet your project needs, whether you're looking to create privacy without sacrificing natural light penetration or simply to jazz up a space.
Most people would agree: denim goes with just about anything. In fact, the textile type has been inf iltrating the architecture and design industry in more ways than only the wardrobes of practitioners. Think a few years back, for instance, when Bonded Logic launched its UltraTouch Denim Insulation batting composed of 80-percent recycled denim and cotton…
There’s no denying that LED technology has enabled lighting fixture designers to conjure up some inn ovative and intriguing luminaires — particularly for the wall. The slim profile and small package of chip-on-board LEDs, for instance, make for great, flat, light-emitting surfaces that, in turn, can lead to more compact or flat fixtures that don’t awkwardly…
Delightful dots and diamonds are among some of the motifs one encounters in this sophisticated cemen t-tile collection from Bisazza. While the Italian company may be best known for its glass mosaics, its foray into cement tiles is proving successful thanks to smart collaborations, such as this one with French architect and designer India Mahdavi. The…
Façade glazing that diffuses light, such as textured and translucent channel glass, is traditionally sought for functional attributes, from providing ample-yet-glare-free natural light to reducing solar heat gain, both of which contribute to desirable energy savings for the client or occupants. But aesthetic appeal is yet another good reason to use it. Take one look…
For the detail-oriented set, handsome bathroom fittings and hardware are like jewelry for the bath s pace. But even the oblivious occupant can get the sense that a bath is special or more luxurious from minute touches. One such detail that can make an impact is often found right under one’s bare foot: the utilitarian drain…
When psychologist Barry Schwartz gave his TED Talk about “The Paradox of Choice,” exploring how bein g bombarded with too many options can cause anxiety and take up too much of our time, he may have been onto something. Case in point: paint centers can overwhelm some patrons with entire color libraries presented right off the…