Curves of Nature
Curves - they are organic, playful, comforting and sensual - what's not to like? The architects at Toronto-based Partisans certainly agree, and they are masters at applying curves in their projects.
Partisans' latest creation is the Fold House - a pool house cum guest cottage set in the grounds of an estate. The defining feature of this pavilion is a swooping roof which dips to the ground in the middle, creating the impression of a bird with outstretched wings, poised to take-off. The undulating ceiling is lined with white oak, steam-bent to create a seamless appearance. The pool is housed under one wing whilst a two-storey guest house rises above the other. The graceful curves not only echo the surrounding landscape but also create a cocooning environment, perfect for enjoying an invigorating swim and for pampering your guests.
The Bent House is designed to showcase the beauty of its location at the top of a disused mine. The building features a well considered balance of straight and curved walls, creating a natural organic vibe despite the extensive use of metal and glass on the outside. The house sits lightly on the ground, with one end cantilevered over a picturesque pond, which is showcased to great effect in the open-plan living dining room thanks to vast floor-to-ceiling glass walls. This is a thoroughly contemporary, manmade structure which nevertheless feels totally at one with nature.
Last but not least, the Grotto Sauna is an architectural gem perched on a rocky outcrop on the edge of a lake. The building is discrete on the outside - a boxy structure with charred black cedar cladding, which creates a natural weathered appearance. The wood-lined interior, in contrast, is a riot of curves complete with a vast eye-shaped window, made possible with advanced 3D scanning and CNC milling technologies. This cave-like space is truly effective in bringing the users as close to nature as possible.
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Product Inspiration
Create an organic look with curvaceous furniture such as the Naked sofa from Mambo, the Kuyu coffee table from Zeitraum and the Luna cabinet from Coedition.
The natural wood veneer lights from LZF are perfect for creating a warm, organic vibe - the Link suspension light is a great example. The Luci d'Oro Gold Moon chandelier from Catallani & Smith is evocative and organic, whilst the Luiz suspension light from Mater looks beautifully down to earth.
Bring the nature in with a Kentia Palm plant from Grace & Thorn, or with a wild botanical wallpaper such as the Exotic Garden wallpaper from Mind The Gap. The organically-shaped Bourgeon vase from 101 Copenhagen would look great too.
