Skyhouse by David Hotson
High Definition Space
If the essence of architecture is to define space, then the Skyhouse penthouse is truly a masterclass in architecture.
Designed by architect David Hotson, this remarkable penthouse takes up four floors at the top of one of the earliest steel structure skyscrapers in Manhattan. The art deco features of the building's exterior is in stark contrast with the super slick, almost entirely white interior space, which could easily be mistaken for a Kubrick film set.
The most remarkable feature of the apartment is not the grand living space or the cinematic views from every window, but the ingenious transformation of an awkward attic void into well-defined spaces which are full of character. Multiple platforms and levels are linked via sleek staircases and even sleeker glass walkways, the delineation of different spaces heightened with strips of mirrored panelling around door and window frames. Quirky details abound, from the swing in the living room to the rock climbing grips on the central steel column and the piece de resistance: a custom-built metal slide which snakes its way through the central void and connects all the floors.
Contemplative and playful in equal measures, this is an apartment which truly defies expectations and challenges conventional definitions of residential space.
Links
http://hotson.net/skyhouse-entry-stairwell
Shop the Style
Product Inspiration
Unique spaces call for unique furniture. The Robox bookshelf from Casamania and the Baobab side table from Moustache are both standout designs with great presence. The Bordbar airplane trolley would look great against industrial features.
A statement suspension light is a good way to add interest to a tall ceiling void. The I.Rain 61 OLED suspension light from Blackbody can be custom-made to any design and would look spectacular in a slick contemporary space. Quirky wall lights such as the Moto from Moustache or the Monkey light from Seletti work wonders to brighten smaller spaces.
Simple, sculptural accessories often work best in minimalist, quirky spaces. The Metrobowl from Frederik Roije, the Cyclope mirror from Moustache and the Pipeline concrete vase from Lyon Beton are good examples.
Also in Do Blog
Past and Present Apartment in Milan by PUNTOFILIPINO
Sometimes, in order to break free from the past you need to explore the past. This was the clever approach of PUNTOFILIPINO, a design firm which abhors minimalism and the "elegant austerity of mid-century modernism".
Villa Under the Tuscan Sun, Lucignano: EUR 1,900,000
Those of a romantic nature might recall "Under The Tuscan Sun". Whilst this is not quite the same villa as featured in the book and film, the villa Under The Tuscan Sun certainly has romance and rustic charm in spades.
Permanent Camping 2 by Casey Brown Architecture
Campers and glampers might disagree on what is luxury and what is essential, but they share a common desire to be as close to nature as possible. Casey Brown Architecture have created a self-contained tiny house which does this beautifully.