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Foret Blanche A Tower With Entirely Wooden Structures

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ARCHITECTS?STEFANO BOERI

Foret Blanche designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti will be the first French Vertical Forest, which will be created in the eastern quadrant of the Parisian? metropolitan area, in the town of Villiers sur Marne.
It will be a 54-meter high tower with entirely wooden structures.

The facades of Foret Blanche, designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, will be covered by 2000 trees, shrubs and plants, with a green surface equivalent to a hectare of forest, 10 times the surface area of the lot on which the building sits.
For?t Blanche will host residential apartments on the high floors, offices and commercial services in the lower part, with a mix of terraces and balconies on the four sides of the tower. The east and west facing side will allow the passage of sunlight all day, giving natural illumination and ventilation to the apartments and an exceptional on the landscape of central Paris.

Foret Blanche is one of the 12 architectural structures presented by Compagnie de Phalsbourg on the Marne Europe ? Villiers sur Marne site, called Balcon sur Paris.
The other architectural structures of the Balcon sur Paris project are the works of Kengo Kuma & Associates (Sora, Le Palais des Congr?s), Oxo Architectes (Le Potager De Villiers, Business Home), KOZ Architectes (2 buildings, Archipel), Michael Green Architecture (Peuplier Blanc, Prairie Blanche) and X-Tu (La Ressourcerie, Green Jenga). is the name of the project by Stefano Boeri Architetti promoted by Compagnie de Phalsbourg.
Balcon sur Paris is inserted within the wider framework of ?Inventons la M?tropole du Grand Paris?, one of the biggest competitions for urban development promoted in the Parisian metropolitan area, that has seen the involvement of 51 sites in total and great names in international architecture.

In addition to For?t Blanche, Stefano Boeri Architetti has also presented the La Cour Verte project for Balcon sur Paris, a building with courtyard, whose roof touches the ground and, at the center, a hanging garden with a 600 m2 mantle planted with grasses, that is inserted into the innovative and sustainable context of the project, favoring the development of biodiversity.

The master plan of public green spaces was designed by the American studio James Corner Field Operations, which curated, amongst others, the New York High Line project of Diller+Scofidio, and by Atelier Paul Ar?ne.

With For?t Blanche, which is added to the Vertical Forest family currently in creation in China, Europe, South America and the United States, Stefano Boeri Architetti also extends its research into France, towards a new generation of architectural structures that encompass the vegetal component as an essential element, going beyond the concept of green as just a simple decoration. Architectural structures that take up the challenge of fighting climate change and increasing biodiversity in urban contexts.

Bethesda Residence, Challenging landscape Design

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The project encompassed design and build of the front and rear areas of the property as well as the building stone of the home. The project entailed front and rear hardscape, landscape, lighting, drainage, and irrigation. The design was very challenging due to the size of the home and the overall space constraints of the lot and topography. The project was situated with a very severe slope in the rear yard with limited space as shown in the water feature area finished photography. Additionally, the project was challenging with respect to stormwater runoff and county specifics as it relates to infiltration requirements.

Landscape Architect: Chad Talton, Surrounds Inc.

Photography: Morgan Howarth.

CAPE VILLA Wonderful decoration for the dream home

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Overlooking the Atlantic Seaboard in Camps Bay, Cape Villa is set against the impressive backdrop of the picturesque Twelve Apostles mountain range and boasts the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. This glamorous home was completely transformed by ARRCC for an international family who enjoy spending time in Cape Town.

Being familiar with ARRCC?s design style, the client brief was to execute ARRCC?s signature style in a new and exciting way to create a modern coastal home with an ethnic edge.

interior design

Keeping the family?s two children in mind, ARRCC strived to create a space that was contemporary and sophisticated, yet playful and fun. The existing structure was transformed into a large open space accommodating an inflow of natural light through the use of an array of reflective surfaces and large external aluminium screens which layer the exterior of the house.

living design living design living design living design living design Cape Villa Living Design Cape Villa Living Design

The entrance glass lobby is clad in reflective glass which accentuates the magnificent Twelve Apostles mountain views, while a garden oasis borders the walkway to the front door. The entrance level comprises a kitchen, dining and lounge area as well as a designated study and guest washroom. Dominating the living room is a slattered screen, boldly shaped with an organic design, generating movement and flow within the space. The Volakas marble floors offer a sophisticated design detail and set the colour palette of the space which is accented by French oak veneers with touches of bronze and metallics which add another layer to the interior design.

dining room design dining room design dining room design dining room design

The entrance makes way for the living area which features a modern design aesthetic, incorporating OKHA furniture – a South African brand of bespoke design – using medium tones that add richness and personality to the space. Artwork by local greats Lionel Smit and Nelson Makamo add a contemporary African feel to the spaces. The living area opens up to the pool entertainment terrace with a covered lounge area, outside shower and infinity pool which leads the eye to views of the ocean.

interior design

The kitchen, adjacent to the lounge and living space, accentuates the light, organic palette of the villa through its monochromatic and minimalistic design. This leads onto an outdoor space set with a BBQ to accommodate outdoor dining. Also on the entrance level off the lobby, a walkway leads to a self- contained, private guest suite. The guest suite features a contrasting colour palette to the main house, with dark wood furniture and a textured rug in olive green and mustard which compliments the artwork, by Emalie Bingham, above the bed. The entire house operates on an automated system from which the owner can control the lighting, heating, curtains and audio system.

The lower level accommodates a kid?s playroom dressed with graphic wallpaper and a light colour scheme to create a fun and playful space. Double doors open to a vertical garden with a swing creating a feel of indoor-outdoor living.

tv room design

On the upper level, a glass bridge links two wings featuring the master bedroom and the two children?s bedrooms. The master bedroom offers an en-suite bathroom and designated dressing room and opens up to a private exterior terrace with uninterrupted views from Lion?s Head to Llandudno.

living space design

An authentic Peruvian Alpaca rug adds softness and texture to the space with the wall art above the bed bringing in an element of colour and personality to the room.

With custom designed beds and graphic designed wallpaper, the children?s bedrooms are mirrored versions of each other with differing unique features to reflect a space that is lively and fun with strong African references.

Art was widely used throughout the house to bring personality and emotion to the space. Nina Sierra Rubia, interior designer at ARRCC, talks about her inspiration and use of art pieces within the villa: ?We saw the curation of the client?s art collection as an opportunity to showcase a mix of both established and up-and-coming South African artists.

bedroom design

We incorporated some serious pieces such as the bust from Lionel Smit and a piece by Nelson Makamo, as well as a tongue-in-cheek installation art piece from Frank Van Reenen. In this project, our biggest considerations were what worked with the scheme, the right format and most importantly, what suited the personalities of our clients,? says Nina.

bedroom design

?While the internal spaces of the home are kept simple, signature ARRCC design elements and bespoke pieces create a modern and sophisticated presence while ensuring that the space reflects the personality of the home owner.

bedroom design

We used bold textures and fabrics to add richness to the space with the combination of glamourous and organic materials ensuring that this holiday retreat is the perfect balance between luxury and comfort,? says Jon Case, ARRCC director.

Brighten up any living space with Al Huzaifa Furnitures Glow lamp collection

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Abstract Lamp
The Abstract lamp has a very different yet attractive base with a rectangular shade to accentuate its feature Abstract Lamp - Price AED 960

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Al Huzaifa, a luxury furniture brand that crafts timeless pieces, adding a modern twist to the ancestry of fine furniture, introduces their new lamp collection. The new collection consists a range of stylish and classic lamp shades that complements the interiors.

The ice blue coloured lamp with a floral base can stand out in any space
Ice Blue Lamp – Price AED 960
The Twister lamp can brighten up any natural setting room with its wavy style Twister Lamp (Price AED 290)
The Amber lamp shade in classy gold and silver adds the luxe factor
Amber Lamp – Price AED 485
The lamp is designed with its stand in a semi-circle of fine wooden branches, inspired by nature Dawn Lamp – Price AED 290

Go warm this Fall with the Beige Bateaux collection by Al Huzaifa Furniture

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the Beige Bateaux collection by Al Huzaifa Furniture

Al Huzaifa Furniture has always leaded the pack when it comes to innovative home furnishings in the UAE, unveils its Beige Bateaux collection

Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Al Huzaifa Furniture, the luxury furnishings brand the nation relies on for elegant, timeless craftsmanship, presents its Beige Bateaux collection. The new collection consists of a range of stylish and classic pieces that complement any living space and adds a touch of class to your home. Named Beige Bateaux, the collection hosts large vessel-like luxury seating options with gold, beige, and cream accents that will warm up any living space. Bateaux, French for ships, refer to the large, vessel-like quality of these stunning pieces that allow larger parties and rows of persons to perch comfortably within a living space. Choose from a range of den lounges, chaise lounges, sofas, tables and chairs, and settees with ottomans that will add a beautiful, Victorian element to the home without making the atmosphere dark or dreary this season.

Easy to clean and truly dainty pieces are designed to look regal and rich in any environment. Al Huzaifa Furniture offers the most beautiful decorative upholsteries and plush settees at the most affordable prices. Find the Beige Bateaux living and dining collection at all Al Huzaifa Furniture outlets.

Find the best innovated and classy furniture at the Al Huzaifa Furniture showrooms in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.

Stunning Front Yard Landscape Design

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Stunning Front Yard Landscape Design

Check out this stunning front yard landscape design done by

Windsor Companies in Mahtomedi, MN.

Morrow Property Portland Oregon, Marvelously Designed Hillside

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Take a peaceful hillside, add a design, some time, and a bit of elbow grease… and voila a stunning landscape. The water feature is spectacular. From the top of the fence lined boundary it trails and tumbles down, winding around the kitchen island and under the bridge to one of three impressive waterfalls. Close beside it, a boulder staircase is highlighted by numerous plantings. These contented homeowners call out each plant by name as they stroll down their hillside. Walking the pathway is truly enjoyable.

 

The kitchen island with dining nook enhances the outdoor living space and begs to feed and entertain.

 

The gazebo offers a peaceful refuge, the firepit with shade umbrella makes an inviting reading nook.

So choose your best spot to relax (each has a perfect view of the water feature) and let this marvelous sanctuary sooth your senses.

10 Decorating Tips for Your First Place

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living room DESIGN

Whether you rent, recently moved into your first home, or just have a limited budget, high-end furnishings, and home accessories can be out of reach for many, especially if you’re just starting out. But that doesn’t mean your place has to look like a dorm room. There are several tips and tricks you can use to give your home more polish. Luckily it takes more know-how than cash to add some sophistication to your space.

Here are ten ways to make your place feel more grown-up.

 

1Add a Plant

It’s amazingly simple, but just adding a living thing or two makes any room feel finished.

Put a low-maintenance plant such as a?succulent, cactus?or philodendron on a side table or nightstand and you’ll give the impression you have your act together. After all, you have to be responsible enough to keep it alive!

2Use a Tray on Your Coffee Table

Trays not only keep your clutter under control, they give a polished look to surfaces such as a?coffee table.

Fill a decorative tray with a short stack of hardback books, a box for your remote controls, a set of coasters and a pretty object or two for a grown-up look.

Plus, putting everything on a tray allows you to pick it all up and move it aside when you need the space for entertaining.

3Style Your Bookcase

Even if the only books you have are paperbacks and old textbooks from college, you can still organize the whole lot so that it looks pulled-together.

Style your bookcase like a pro?by arranging your books both horizontally and vertically, and mixing in accessories.

4Upgrade Your Lighting

Torch lamps and?string lights?may have worked in a dorm room, but they lack in sophistication. Trade adolescent lighting choices for a pair of inexpensive but chic table lamps.

Or, copy one of these?DIY lighting fixtures?to replace unsophisticated ceiling lights. Another budget-friendly idea for your first place is to look for lamps?at thrift stores, then make them like new by?spray painting?their bases.

5Add Some Class With a Bar Cart

Organize your booze on a?classy bar cart?for a grown-up look. Add some swanky barware such as an ice bucket or a cocktail shaker for even more sophistication, then just roll it all into the corner after the party.

Save money by?DIYing your own bar cart, and if you’re really handy, try making one of?these beautiful wood bar carts.

6Frame Your Art

After college, it’s really no longer acceptable to hang unframed prints or posters on the wall with tape.?You can, however, use unconventional methods for hanging art, such as on a grid of clipboards for a modern take on a gallery wall, or with wooden pants hangers for a vintage-industrial look.

Fortunately, there are several?online sources offering affordable, original art prints. And there are lots of?out-of-the-box ideas for wall art?too, such as objects like plates, textiles?and architectural salvage.

7Coordinate Your Throw Pillows

One of the quickest ways to pull a room together is with decorative pillows. Strategic choices can help you camouflage an ugly couch, or add warmth, color and style to a boring room.

Learn to?mix and match patterned pillows like a pro, or go with a completely eclectic mix for a boho chic look.06 Frame Your Art

8Hang Curtain Panels

Trade those cheap vertical blinds or plastic roller shades for curtain panels to give your room a more grown-up look.

Curtains not only pull a room together, they help cut your heating bill and add a layer of privacy.

save on hardware by trying one of these?DIY curtain rod hacks.

9Use Soap Dispensers?

Leaving dish soap and hand soap in its original promotional packaging adds visual clutter to your counters and frankly, looks a little tacky.

Give your kitchen and bathroom sinks more polish by decanting soap into pretty bottles or soap dispensers.

10Matching Glasses and Coffee Mugs

Mismatched glasses and coffee mugs can have a kitschy-cool effect if they’re collected and displayed intentionally. On the other hand, mugs with different logos on them and a hodgepodge of glass and plastic drinking glasses collected over time just looks messy.

BY?VALERIE OTT

Greener, Beautiful new custom home

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AquaTerra Outdoors was hired to design and install the entire outdoor package for this beautiful new custom home. We went with a traditional design with contemporary finishes. Features include traditional landscape, new pool, spa, deck jet water features, new fence and outdoor kitchen.

LANDSCAPE AQUATERRA OUTDOORS

Photography Wade Griffith

Common Types of Leather

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3 Most Common Types of Leather Used in Furniture

They Differ in Cost, Durability and Appearance

Leather furniture is made using many different types of?leather?that are created using different processes. This is what accounts for the different look, feel and quality of leather?furniture, and ultimately?even how to clean it.

Leather comes from many?different sources. Some are obvious, such as cattle, sheep and pigs, and some not so obvious, such as stingrays and ostriches. However, more than the source, it is how leather is processed that determines which of three main categories it falls into aniline, semi-aniline, and protected or pigmented leather.

Aniline Leather
Aniline leather is highly prized for the way it looks. It is the most natural-looking type of leather and retains unique surface characteristics like pores scars. Aniline leather is dyed by immersing the hide in a transparent dye bath, but the look of the surface is retained because it is not coated with any additional polymers or pigments. Only the very best hides, about 5 percent or so, are used for aniline leather because all surface marks remain visible. This is also the reason it is often referred to as “naked leather.”

Advantages:?Aniline leather is comfortable and soft to the touch. Since it retains all the unique markings and characteristics of the hide, each piece is different from any other one.

Disadvantages:?Since it is not protected, aniline leather can be stained easily. It is not recommended for use in furniture for young families or in high traffic areas for that reason.

Semi-Aniline Leather
Semi-aniline leather is just a little bit tougher than aniline leather because its surface has been treated with a light coat that contains some pigment, which makes it more soil- and stain-resistant. That makes the effect of dyeing a bit different because even the slightest bit of change in the process creates a different outcome.

Advantages:?While it retains the uniqueness of aniline leather, semi-aniline leather has more consistent color and is more resistant to stains. It can stand up to tougher conditions and isn’t damaged as easily. Pieces upholstered in semi-aniline leather might also be a bit less expensive.

Disadvantages:?The markings are not as apparent and therefore the piece does not have the unique appeal that aniline leather does. If you are a fan of the more natural-looking aniline leather, then this is not for you.

Protected or Pigmented Leather
Protected leather is the most durable type of leather, and for that reason, it is the most commonly used leather in manufacturing furniture and car upholstery. Protected leather has a polymer surface coating containing pigments, making this the toughest of these three types.

Protected leather has variations in the surface coating, but by adding it as part of the process the manufacturer has more control over the properties of the leather. The coating also adds more resistance to scuffing or fading.

Advantages:?Protected or pigmented leather is easy to maintain and stands up to different conditions and uses. There are different levels of protection, and you should be able to find a type that fits your needs best.

Disadvantages:?This type of leather does not have the uniqueness of aniline leather and looks less natural. It can be hard to tell one kind of grain apart from the other because the surface is coated and embossed.

BY ABE ABBAS