Archive for the ‘Architecture’ Category

Adaptive Reuse…

Friday, February 11th, 2011

 

Adaptive reuse is a growing field in interior design in Austin.  Taking something old, that might otherwise be torn down, and adapting it to suit other uses is like recycling on a grand scale.  It is better for the environment and gives a “nod of respect” to historical spaces, not to mention the fact that something truly unique can be created around the “limitations” of an existing space.  Check out this incredible home in Utrecht (Netherlands) that has been adapted from a chapel.  It is amazing.

daylighting, adaptive reuse, renovation, green renovation, eco upgrade, zecc architects, utrecht, the netherlands, chapel, catholica chapel, chapel renovation, green design, eco design, sustainable building,

For more:  http://inhabitat.com/chapel-transformed-into-stunning-modern-residence-in-utrecht/

Powder Baths…A Dramatic Design Opportunity

Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

 

Powder baths are great places to introduce a little bit of drama into your home.  The are small spaces, allowing you to get a lot of “wow factor” for your design buck.  It is the perfect place to use some wallpaper with punch, interesting lighting, and great plumbing fixtures.  Powder baths are a great spot to bring in the unexpected, and your guests will love it!

Hanging Your Clothes in Style.

Monday, February 7th, 2011

 

Can there really ever be enough storage in a home?  It seems like no matter how much storage space we put in our homes, it always gets filled.  Closets for clothing are no exception.  The bigger, the better, which is why it is great to have your interior designer with you when plans are being drawn up with an architect.  Check out some of these fabulous closets in master suites.  They look great and are very functional.

The Power of Courtyard Entryways…

Thursday, February 3rd, 2011

 

We love entryway courtyards here in Austin.  They are inviting and really allow for a sense of entry.  Not only that, they create a first impression of things to come once inside a home.  Another great thing about courtyards is that they can go with any style and really add ambiance.

New Take on Tuscan…

Tuesday, February 1st, 2011

 

American interpretations on Tuscan architecture have been around for a long time, but Austin home builders are starting to “clean things up” while staying true to Tuscan inspiration.  Instead of using carved stone mouldings everywhere, they are keeping things simple and elegant, allowing for an overall cleaner look.  Also consider interior design.  Using transitional style furnishings is more unexpected for such a traditional space, helping to create a softer look. 

 

Ann Sacks

Wednesday, January 12th, 2011

 

Ann Sacks is one of the most innovative tile lines in the world.  With everything ranging from simple square tiles to incredible mosaic art, Ann Sacks has got the corner on the market.  With so many choices in color and style, her product line is unparalleled.  If you are thinking of making over a powder bath, secondary bath or kitchen, let Colby Design help you to make it spectacular.  For more, visit www.annsacks.com

 

Water Works.

Monday, January 10th, 2011

 

In the world of plumbing, there are a lot of choices.  When it comes to making a statement with understated fixtures, though, Dornbracht is King.  The German company’s beautiful plumbing fixtures look more like sleek sculptures than what they really are.  Plumbing is a way for interior designers to set a home apart.  For the homeowner that wants the best in contemporary fixtures, Dornbracht is it.  Their beauty lies in their slightness.

www.dornbracht.com

 

Fab Prefab…

Friday, January 7th, 2011

 

When you think of prefabricated homes, you might think inexpensive or undesirable.  Rocio Romero is one of many who are going to make us think twice before judging pre-fab as less than desirable.  The LV Series of homes (the original model is pictured below) is modern and sleek.  You can purchase the kits at a base price, and then hire general contractors to assemble the home on your site (or for the really daring, construct it yourself).  Customize this home with your own finish-out (meaning you have to supply the tile, flooring, plumbing, lighting, paint, ect.), and it could be stunning.  Interior designers love doing unique applications, and the LV home is certainly that…it even looks like it belongs in Austin.  Our hat is off to you, Rocio, for changing the way we think about pre-fab.

 http://www.rocioromero.com

Classic Carrara.

Monday, January 3rd, 2011

 

There aren’t a lot of building materials out there that can do what Carrara Marble can for a home.  It is classic, contemporary, glamourous, sophisticated…it can even go country chic.  With so many sizes and shapes to choose from (including large slabs), the possibilities are endless.  A good interior designer can get you exactly where you want to be using this material, no matter what your style, and Austin, Texas has an abundance of resources who carry Carrara.

A Room With a View

Wednesday, December 29th, 2010

 

Outdoor rooms are great, especially with the weather in Austin, Texas.  The surroundings provide most of the decor, so all one has to do is set up a compfortable place to sit and enjoy what nature has already provided…of course, accent lighting and just the right splashes of color through proper fabric selection does go a long way.