Komonokaen is a flower shop in Japan’s Mie Prefecture with a U-shaped facade made entirely of glass. Designed by Japanese practice Tatsuya Kawamoto + Associates in 2023, the retail space includes a plant shop and a cafe organised around a courtyard garden.
Atelier du Pont has renovated Estancia San José in Menorca, Spain, transforming an old ruin into a 300-square-metre summer residence with Minorcan influences. Featuring arched Iroko windows and stone facade, the house combines raw materials with vibrant elements like an acid yellow kitchen.
The organic forms and textured finishes throughout the interior pay homage to local craftsmanship, while the garden is a natural setting surrounded by garrigue and wild olive trees.
Discover Upper Albert, a stunning five-bedroom house designed by ARRCC in 2022, located in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa. This property showcases a unique blend of modern architecture with a thoughtful dialogue on materiality, featuring interiors that echo the skills of local artisans and use sustainable materials like green stone aggregate and Rustenburg granite. Each space within Upper Albert is a testament to innovative design and luxurious living, perfectly situated to offer magnificent views of the city and harbor.
Casa Toro, designed by Estudio Carroll in 2023, stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture in Oaxaca City, Mexico. This innovative house, spanning approximately 250 m² (about 2690 ft²), seamlessly blends with its coastal surroundings, promoting energy-efficient living without sacrificing luxury. Through the use of local materials and thoughtful design, Casa Toro offers a unique living experience that harmoniously connects its residents with nature.
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Monferrato, Italy, lies the splendid Domus Augusta, a testament to the transformative power of contemporary design. This handsome apartment, once a 1960s relic, has been completely reimagined by In2 Architettura Ed Interior Design, culminating in an exquisite renovation in 2022.
The design is a harmonious blend of contemporary and minimalist elements, with a devotion to natural light and local craftsmanship. Diagonal lines, reminiscent of the surrounding foliage, guide you through the space, while a custom-made teak parquet floor, laid at a unique 41° angle, visually escorts you from the entrance to the living room. The double exposure, facilitated by full-height sliding glass doors, ensures the apartment is bathed in sunlight at all hours, illuminating even the most central parts of the house.