The egg – nature’s most perfect form – is the stimulus behind this modern refuge designed for public and private spaces. Japan’s Kazuya Morita Architecture Studio designed the Concrete pod as a modern haven in which to momentarily escape the stresses of the world. “In the dome, because of its minimal scale, it makes us more sensitive and relaxed, like when we are in our traditional tea-house Cha-sitsu.” Exhibited at Concrete Art Museum 2005 in Nagoya, Japan, this contemporary cocoon is constructed of reinforced concrete, with a height of 1700mm and the shell just 15mm thick. According to the architects, “A minor axis of a hen's egg is about 40mm and thickness is 400 microns, so it means this concrete shell is just like an expansion of a hen's eggshell.” And although this modern structure is “hen's-egg thin,” Concrete pod has the enough strength to support a grown man sitting on top. Speckled with holes, the shell offers a sheltered environment while maintain a connection with the exterior environment. Kazuya Morita Architecture Studio
via Busyboo
24 Jan 2009 | Architectural Elements
Weinor offers the award-winning VertiTex Vertical Awning. The high-quality fabric shades from the Soltis collection provide protection from the sun and wind elements, without blocking out the view of the surroundings. With over 47 standard colors, eight WiGa trend colors and 150 RAL colors, you’re sure to find a color to suit your style and the ambiance you’re after, as well as to match other awnings that may already exist. The awnings come up to six metres wide and 2.4 metres high, in robust, durable fabric with a stainless steel rope guide. The awnings are safely fitted almost anywhere with sturdy awning brackets that can be bolted into a ceiling or wall. They can be equipped with electronic systems that can be controlled remotely. The VertiTex Vertical Awning was a 2008 winner of the Red Dot Design Awards.
2 Sep 2008 | Architectural Elements
X-Stone, the super strong, outdoor tile launched by Italian Ceramiche Refin is finally on the U.S. market. With its milled stone-look but performance and durability of porcelain tile, it’s no wonder it’s such a hit. Concrete, iron, sand and wood are the nature-inspired color choices. Grooved tiles are ultra chic, adding texture and accent to any area they are placed. The resilient tiles are an ideal surrounding for a pool area, since they are water resistant and would live up to the harsh beating a pool area may take. If you’re looking for the ultimate in an outdoor sitting area, the X-Stone tiles can create a carpet-like look, making your lounge area truly unique.
14 Aug 2008 | Architectural Elements
Landscape Forms is now carrying Santa & Cole’s urban elements like its decorative Robert landscape edging. This minimal and elegant pattern creates a classic edging look that will transform any garden or park area into a polished-looking landscape. The stainless steel posts support a curved horizontal alignment strap that interlocks to fashion an edging of any desired length, either in a straight or curved line. Simply purchase the number of poles with a strap that are needed, and then finish off with the end pole. Robert landscape edging is both made from recycled materials and is 100 per cent recyclable. Landscape Forms
31 Jul 2008 | Architectural Elements
Set your eyes on the alluring, wooden Modern Fence. I don’t think I’ve ever thought twice about a fence…until now. The Modern Fence is built with Ipe (pronounced eepay) wood, informally known as Brazilian Walnut. The illustrious wood is first-class in durability and hardness. It’s a tropical hardwood tree that grows abundantly in Central and South America. Because of its resilience against decay from bugs and moisture, it is the perfect material for outdoor furnishings. This is one sexy wooden fence. Your eyes are drawn along the sleek horizontal lines. The luxe red tones will accent any landscaping, or be a focal point all on its own. You no longer need to put up fences for privacy’s sake, the Modern Fence is all about design and decor for your pleasure.
via Apartment Therapy
19 Jul 2008 | Architectural Elements
