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Outstanding Sustainable Architecture!

This dedicated award winning architectural and planning firm have reset the standards of diverse public and residential building, planning and design to the highest level. Swatt Miers was created by a clever merger between Swatt Architects and George Miers Associates for planning and design. Over the past few years their work has received high recognition locally and nationally earning them over 50 awards including the most prestigious award by the American Institute of Architects ‘The National Honor Award’ for Levi Strauss & Co, San Francisco’s largest masonry buildings and the renovation of The Ice House. Below are some of their latest projects from private to public buildings.

This Sinbad Creek private residence is set on a 5.3 acre site on a hillside in the small town of Sunol, California. Swatt Miers designed this 400 sqf west facing home taking into consideration the amazing views at every angle. Each space has its own character yet interlocks with the next ensuring it all also develops a close relationship with the natural rural landscape.

Sinbad Creek was designed to create the perfect relationship with each space and the natural landscape!

Keeping with the natural theme, clean lines with natural wood and lots of light!

Perfectly located close to the highways of 560 and 68 is this ten acre site housing the Dublin Civic Center. The center includes a police department, a council chamber, a cable television studio, a regional meeting room and various administrative offices. There are several grass garden areas and future plans in place for a theater, library and gymnasium.

Many important civic departments within this one impressive 10 acre site!

150 seating capacity for the council chamber!

This welcoming Free Speech Movement Cafe was built to celebrate the firestorm which hit the country by storm thanks to Chancellor Robert M. Berdahl. It houses many pieces of associated literature, photographs, quotations, articles, and a huge memorial mural of events that occurred in Berkeley back in 1964 that kick started the FSM.  Current news can be accessed by computers, monitors and a LED display that shows recent and current events from around the globe.

Created as a tribute to the FSM!

Housing everything visitors need to keep up with current FSM activism!

The Ice House is the largest masonry building in San Francisco and was originally built to create ice for the local fishing industry back in 1994. Wyatt Miers renovated the 200,000 sqf buildings and transformed them into the HQ of this very old company. The design was kept casual to keep in with the companies image and they re-used as much of the original building a possible out of respect.

A total face lift for these historic buildings!

Staying with the clients image, yet with a modern approach!

The Gold LEED facility of the Humane Society of Silicon Valley has several purposes. It offers the public many services including animal care, adoption, boarding, day care and a  huge park. There are also exercise areas for the dogs and plenty of public areas and a cafe. This is a highly efficient site with a photovoltaic energy system and a reduced water system that has resulted in 80% less usage.

Saving energy while creating a very much needed facility!

Incorporating lots of green open spaces to exercise the dogs!

The firm continues its dedication in sustainable building and can often be seen featured in may publications. They offer the highest level of design and planing, creating beautiful user friendly energy saving private and public buildings. Their building projects range from institutional, animal welfare, commercial, residential and civic taking the standards of architecture to a new level.

Rethinking the Product!

Rethinking the Product is a unique joint venture between design industry professionals from different design sectors with the ambition to create advanced products from new methods. All the companies involved along with the design team and young up and coming designers collaborate their ideas and knowledge to devise new techniques of production away from traditional methods. The project began back in 2008 and this year exhibited some of their creations at 100% Design in London. Below are some of their showpieces!

This aluminium lamp is made of LED lighting so it has very low energy consumption. There are a variety of finishing choices and also the lighting can be either colored, cool or warm. The five arms are strategically placed so the lighting is circulated upwards and downwards giving a unique light diffusion with less glare.

The Sirio lamp!

This unusual sound barrier is also perfect for arranging separate residential settings. It acts as a sound barrier because the panels contain mineral substrate which allows greenery to grow with minimum maintenance. This natural noise filter can also be used in busy cities and urban areas where sound from railways or highways can be muffled.

The Green Sonic sound barrier and separator!

This highly technical glass mirror amazingly manages a home’s automatic interconnecting network and can be fitted with various accessories including a survey system for bio-metric data, a projector, a search application for lost items and a pomander. This avante-garde item could also be ideal for commercial use.

The Foo mirror designed to manage a home’s automation network!

These super space saving kitchen units are derived from the original Tuscan grain store and bread making equipment called the Madia. They are ideal for a small living space as these compact products contain everything you need for a functioning kitchen and the usual appliances.

The Madia2 space saving kitchen!

This textured wall covering is made from Cardato Regenerated CO2 Neutral recycled wool that is produced using an old method that eliminates CO2 emissions.

Wall App Kit, CO2 emissions free!

This luminous table with glass top was produced with ambient settings in mind and houses metal wings that can be opened to project the light from inside.

The Light Box table created for ambient settings!

Four years have gone by since ‘Rethinking the Product’ was born. This innovative project has created one hundred prototypes by the same amount of specialist designers and companies from a variety of sectors. Using this conception new partnerships and synergies have originated as well as the creation of unique product lines. Rethinking the Product will continue to create original successful products with a combined effect away from the original methods.

East Meets West by Rachel Laxer!

The stunning interior design of this home is the result of a collection of creative minds, international influences and a fine eye for detail. Rachel Laxer takes the credit for the relaxed ambiance but her inspiration for the carefully chosen items, color schemes and accessories came from the clients themselves and also the architects who constructed this generous 10,000 square foot Californian dream home.

Rachel was involved from the beginning of the framework and actually changed the design of the original entryway after a chance visit to London’s National Portrait Gallery. Throughout the contemporary section the pieces of art are hung on glass walls, back to back which immediately portrays a sense of space the whole length. This illusion really impressed her so she decided to change the existing traditional entryway design that included a marble staircase and instead suggested a glass staircase that appears to float, giving the house a first impression of light and openness.

The stunning entryway sets the standard for the rest of this home!

Each piece of furniture, color scheme and accessory makes a statement! The harmony and balance between each room has a remarkable effect.  Before moving into interior design Rachel moved from New York to London after achieving an MBA in finance and working on Wall Street. Her interior design interest developed when she moved on to Japan and she fell in love with the balance and harmony aspects of Japanese home design. She re-decorated her home in Tokyo and as a result the local expats asked her to do theirs.

The lounge areas both encompass vibrant artwork!

Hints of the Far East are set amongst a contemporary background!

Around the same time she became fascinated with Kelly Hoppen’s new book ‘East Meets West’ and 2 years later she made the decision to head back to London and do Kelly’s interior design course at the prestige’s KLC School of Design. After a successful result she became more intrigued with interior design and applied for an internship with Kelly. That developed into a 4 year stint and  a deep relationship as both respected each others work. Kelly admired Rachel for her eye to detail and her desire to mix international influences.

Both dining areas make the most of the natural landscape in the grounds!

She worked on many projects for Kelly and moved back to New York where she joined forces with fellow student Alexa Salter and formed Rachel Laxer Interiors.

The focal point here are the stunning chandeliers that warm up this very modern kitchen!

The color scheme and chosen accessories connect with the design perfectly!

This well planned terrace creates a cozy hub to enjoy the outdoors!

These custom made drapes in the master suite give it individuality!

No expense has been spared in this guest bedroom with its beautiful linens and direct access to the grounds!

Rachel now divides her time between the U.S and London and has become recognized for mixing contemporary Europe, the warmth of India and modern U.S design into her interiors. Her extensive travels and eye to detail allow her to create bespoke interiors that have a unique international prospective.

A Glass Act From the Livinglass Duo!

The earth friendly company Livinglass was founded on the basis of a number of influences and inspirations. This unique design company was developed by Mike Skura and Rachel Hoffman who after 15 years in the design industry noticed the need to freshen up the use of quality materials that could be versatile. Rachel’s design experience and Mike’s extensive engineering and technology knowledge has given Livinglass a modern and aesthetic approach to design.

100% recycled glass and resin from the ‘Light’ collection!

It all started by experimenting with forming a laminated glass sandwich using only natural materials. The reaction from the industry during these first experiments proved encouraging so they began experimenting more seriously will a variety of glass, resin, procedures and testing a variety of materials for inter layers. Livinglass immediately started to grow after their first collection called ‘From Nature’ and gained a reputation for being unique, kind to the environment and creating beautiful visual products.

Livinglass create beautiful decorative glass designs for corporate, residential, restaurants, retail, hotels and health buildings. Their inspiration is derived from nature where they combine beautiful colors and patterns in geometric and natural forms. The basis of their designs are either from their Light, Curve or Fresh collections.

A hotel casino in Kimono Aqua from the ‘Light’ collection!

The Light collections can be created with recycled glass and resin from a thickness of just half an inch making it more affordable. The Curve collections are decorated recycled laminated glass and 100% recycled resin that can be created into curve shapes, giving a room a totally different dimension. The Fresh collections are made from non-laminated single glass panels then they are carved into to create beautiful designs. Fresh is also available in 100% recycled glass.

A corporate design from the Curve collection in Kimono Flame!

They have been chosen by many famous publications for being a top glass product and design team and back in 2005 teamed together with Rockwell to create a stunning dining area for Nobu 57th Street in New York. They incorporated slices of natural bamboo into glass panels creating a floating appearance.

The stunning Hibachi dining room at Nobu 57th Street!

A residential project using the Fresh approach!

Custom butterfly design from the Light collection works perfect in this health care building!

A retail project from the Fresh portfolio!

All Livinglass products are environmentally friendly, resistant to water, UV, and chemicals, impact resistant for safety, class A 1 fire approved, antimicrobial, sanitary and resist discoloration, fading and scratches. Livinglass are also a member of The U.S Green Building Council and are committed to helping to develop a sustainable future by continuing to make buildings greener for everyone.

Elegant Holiday Table Settings on a Budget!

If you are doing some entertaining during the holidays then take a look at these easy and inexpensive ideas for holiday table settings. By using your imagination even the simplest ideas can turn a table into an elegant masterpiece!

To make simple yet chic place settings, collect some pine cones, spray paint them silver, gold or ice blue, and add touches of greenery. Make the name tag out of flimsy paper for an elegant finish!

Inexpensive, chic and natural!

Head off to your local thrift store and purchase an old fashioned music book to create a unique yet nostalgic place setting. Team with white and silver and some touches of natural festive greenery!

Add a touch of nostalgia!

Create natural table centers by using festive flowers or decorated branches. Create a whimsical theme like the one on the left by using a tall glass vase and add some drama by filling with natural branches and decorate with silver and gold butterflies or festive glittery items like snowflakes. In keeping with the floral theme create a wintry pretty look from natural flowers. White works best teamed with candles that offer a nice clean fresh look with a warm glow.

Create some drama by bringing the outdoors in!

To create a rustic chic table make a change from using a conventional dinner service and choose a mix of wood and ironstone instead. The wooden name tag and the snowflake ornament blend in to the theme while the crystal glasses tops off the look with elegance.

Steer away from conventional tableware for an interesting twist!

Create a lovely winter design with glass, white and a few sparkles. This table also matches the blue decor perfectly. Hang sparkly items like snowflakes from the chandelier at different lengths so they add to the centerpiece.

Use what you have to create a festive focal point!

If you want a change from the usual glittery designs then opt for a natural look. This look would not be complete with out a burlap runner, then use glass jars and bowls as candle holders, add some greenery and place with twig balls for authenticity.

Authentic twig balls make a festive design that is natural and re-usable!

Swap traditional themes to create unique, charming table designs this holiday season. There is no need to rush out and buy expensive tableware, there are many ways to be inventive by using natural things and simple ideas  to create beautiful and interesting table settings!

Angelic White Creates Ethereal Beauty!

Stylish New Yorker Barbara Dent has created a chic, heavenly all white home. This dramatic scene of sophistication is illuminated by the large paneled windows on the west side of her apartment in this brand new tower style building designed by famous architect Jean Nouvel. Barbara has always loved and lived in contemporary modern style and her past homes were models of excellence in the minimal, contemporary design world and featured in many magazines. Her apartment has stunning views of the Statue of Liberty thanks to the buildings location and the sinuous curves in the architecture.

The west side windows offer views towards the Statue of Liberty!

In the living area she chose a Piero Lissoni sofa in an angular shape and complimented it with a leather ottoman purposely chose not to use too much floor space. She added a 2008 Bouquet chair which is a rare find in white, Nanook tables and a Twilight floor lamp to complete the dramatic look.

The carefully chosen furniture items add to this room with dramatic effect!

The master suite is adorned with furnishing items from many high-end designers from all over the world. The bedside table and desk offer contemporary seamless flat surfaces and the clay chair and Yves Bahar lamp finish it all off perfectly. The photo by Miles Aldridge sits cheekily above the Cassina bed layered with a luxurious angora throw. The Corian fitted bathroom has no room for clutter, everything has a function and a place.

The master suite is adorned with many items from international designers!

Smooth clean surfaces give an ultra modern edge!

The chic dining setting is opposite the open plan kitchen. The kitchen’s center focal point is the island cube on casters that has been made from terrazzo the same as the floor. The appliances are all the latest technology in stainless steel and the surfaces are smooth, clean and uncluttered.

The movable island cube is center point in the open plan kitchen!

The terrazzo floor with touches of gray stone picks up the natural light beautifully. All her carefully chosen art work sits perfectly against the brightness of the light and white thanks to the work of the architect and his aim to compliment this airy delicate interior. These plain white walls are the perfect place to show off her art collection which includes a photo by Massimo Vitale called Scala Dei Turchi, a glass wall sculpture from famous New York artist Rob Wynn, and hanging in the foyer id the Mirraggio by the Campana Brothers.

The terrazzo floors absorb the light and reflect it against the walls!

Dente’s evident sophisticated, unique style is influenced by her time as editor for Harpers Bazaar magazine and working with clients such as Calvin Klein, L’Oreal, Italian Vogue and many other international style icons. Since 1992 Barbara Dente has been working with Donna Cristina in their marketing, PR and communications co. for luxury brands all over the world and the USA.

Staging Your Home to Sell This Christmas!

If your home is up for sale this Christmas don’t neglect festive decorations, use them to maximize the potential of your homes features. Simply adorn your home with tasteful festive touches to create a warm welcoming atmosphere.

First impressions count so don’t go too over the top with your outside decor. Pretty lights in one or two colors are welcoming enough and will also show off your front yard or your garden. Blow up Father Christmas’s or snowmen are a no no!

First impressions count, so be careful when choosing your outside decor!

If your home is simply decorated in a contemporary or minimalist style then make sure your festive decor is too. Avoid loud colors like reds and gold, and go for silver and blue for a classy effect.

Silver and blue have a classy effect in a minimalist design!

Try not to over do your trimmings and instead accentuate the positive features in your home. If you have a beautiful open fireplace then draw attention to it by hanging pretty crystal or glass baubles with ribbon from the mantel.

Accentuate the best features in your home!

Create a stylish centerpiece by collecting pine cones and holly, then arrange around a selection of candles for a natural touch.

Bring natural touches into your festive decor!

Turn up the heat and create a warm welcome for your freezing cold visitors. A warm home will urge the potential buyers to hang around and take in the better features your home has to offer.

Create a warm welcome by turn up the heat for your freezing cold visitors!

As it is the season of good will to all then why not offer your visitors a tasty festive nibble or a glass of hot mulled wine. This will relax them and also delay there viewing. The smell of the wine and nibbles will also enhance the festive atmosphere in your home.

Offer your visitors a festive drink or tasty nibble to encourage them to hang around!

Some more tips of staging your home at Christmas:

Tall thin Christmas trees will accentuate the height of your ceiling and will not take up too much floor space.

If you don’t have a garden or front yard then create an eye catching entrance with a subtle garland or wreath.

Finally don’t go over the top with religious decor items as this may put potential buyers off.

The trick is to focus on the best features of your home and adapt a less is more attitude.

Let us know your tips for staging to sell your home during the festive season!

A Renovation With Dramatic Results! in process

In usual cases finally getting the license to renovate a home is when people engage in a fantasy world and start dreaming of their new home. The case with this retreat home in Aspen, Colorado design solutions and the clients requirements were discussed in great detail with designer Frank de Biasi a true chameleon, who’s signature style is a mix of world cultures and art where he turns fantasy into reality. Stunning results are an eclectic mix of beautiful living with accents of art that exceeded the clients wildest dreams.

The home was originally built in the 1970′s, so he wanted to transform the outdated interior into a retreat that was warm and welcoming, edgy, and conventional enough to accommodate the couple with a family of four young children, so art became a major influence. He was also influenced by the colors in the surrounding landscape and the shades of the winter sky, while adding his passion for vibrant colors and art.

Historical armoire sits comfortably with these magnificent Sushi IV multicolored chars!

The exterior is made of reclaimed wood that mirrors a typical ski lodge, but the interior offers function with comfort and unique dramatic touches in the beautifully arranged generous space. The reclaimed wood beams and the natural blue stone tiles on the floor have created main focal points. Another distinctive point is the cast bronze armoire with the the huge bullet hole that is based on the French cabinet maker Andre Charles Buolle’s original, and was  intended to be an unusual fun aspect.

A riveting exuberant work of art becomes the focal point in the living area!

The custom made staircase is also reclaimed wood with the first three steps that lead to the living area housing glass sidings and bronze fittings. The exceptional art work of Alexander Ross dominates the room as does the bespoke rug made by Doug and Meyer forming an aesthetic finish.

The rug by Doug and Meyer brings together this aesthetic finish!

The living room leads off to the double height dining room with blue and green hues and generous windows offering outstanding views that give this room a feeling of extending to the outdoors. The glass art tables work perfectly with the sculptured chairs and the glass and bronze chandelier adds the finishing touch.

Stunning sculptured chairs are paired with glass art tables!

The spectacular master suite has a zen like quality for the ultimate in relaxation, with a palette of glacial colors reflecting the winter sky, snow and ice.The shaved wooden beams and the teak chaise add texture and warmth.

Glacier inspired tones welcome textured collectible items!

This generous sized bathroom suite in creamy marble has seamless lines and again the French style windows are allowing beautiful views of the snow capped Colorado mountains.

Seamless marble transforms this generous bathroom into luxury indulgence!

Frank stated on finishing this home that he always finds it fascinating to include items and pieces that have their own very different personalities. He also said it was a pleasure to work with enthusiastic collectors and their very personal items from their collections.

We feel he created a genius interior master piece with collectible master pieces creatively and intelligently chosen and placed!