The Ljubljana-based architectural studio Arhitektura has meticulously reimagined a cluttered post-war Slovenian suburban villa, creating a spacious penthouse for the environmentally conscious homeowner. Designed in 2024, the space features sleek cross-laminated timber elements and a grand winter garden with panoramic views of the green surroundings. The home’s design harmoniously balances privacy and scenic views, marking a significant transformation while respecting the building’s original structure.
Sustainably Spanish, a new Spanish Colonial by Fergus Garber Architects, is in Palo Alto, CA, USA. Designed in 2012, this house combines historic style with modern green technology. Its austere façade and courtyard design reflect a quiet sophistication, fitting seamlessly into its neighborhood.
Pátio do Meco, a Setúbal home designed in 2018 by Fábio Ferreira Neves, maintains its original identity by preserving its typical Mediterranean elements. The minimal exterior is designed as different volumes positioned according to privacy needs. A verandah connects the main home, where social activities take place, with the private rooms along the perimeter. For shade, the patio, which maintains its original scale, contains Mediterranean elements, such as a well and shading reeds.
The Almaty Plywood Apartment, designed by Peter Kostelov in 2024, is located in Almaty, Kazakhstan. This 83.5-square-metre apartment features a Live/Work concept, balancing private and public zones.
Catchacoma Cottage is a one-storey residence designed by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design. Located in Kawartha Lakes, Canada, the cottage features three distinct volumes that harmonize with the sloping lakeside site, creating a deep connection to the landscape. Emphasizing sociability and shared experiences, the cottage includes modern design elements and sustainable features that enhance its integration into the surroundings.
The Avico Villa by Majid Roudgarpour in Chālūs, Iran, is designed to maintain a close connection between the interior spaces and the courtyard. Completed in 2024, the house features staggered rectangular volumes that emphasize the building’s relationship with its outdoor surroundings. Roudgarpour incorporated spacious terraces with views of the Alborz Mountain range, glass railings, and passive systems to enhance natural ventilation and energy efficiency.
The West Seattle Chalet by SHED Architecture & Design draws inspiration from the Swiss Alps for its design, targeting net-zero energy efficiency. Located in Seattle, Washington, this contemporary wooden house features large windows that frame views of the surrounding garden and Olympic mountains. Warm and minimal interiors complement the chalet’s exterior, clad entirely in wood. The design includes street-facing elements for community engagement and private living spaces at the back, offering garden views and access to outdoor areas.
The YL Apartment in Ramat Gan, Israel was designed by Maya Sheinberger in 2023. Known for her modern, minimalist style, Sheinberger transformed the 125-square-meter home into a functional space for a young family. The design includes a striking blue carpentry wall that houses storage and a hidden entry to a playroom. With a focus on flexibility and purpose, Sheinberger aimed to create a stylish home that adapts to the family’s needs over time.
