Archinect - News

Twelve Tacoma by Aleph-Bau is your typical row house with a secret only seen from above

2017-05-24T15:13:00-04:00

In Toronto's central Summerhill neighborhood sits a steady line-up of typical 19th century workers' row houses. Nestled among them, between the colored brick facades and conventional front porches, is Twelve Tacoma, designed by the Toronto-based Aleph-Bau. Drawing on the surrounding vernacular, the design mimics the ordinary signifiers typical of the neighboring homes but with a contemporary bent, notably in its unusual choice in materials. For example, the awning over the door—standard for this block—is updated with plexiglass. The white paint further distinguishes this home as an elegant and crisp addition to the block.

From above, the home begins to depart much more from its surroundings than one would have assumed from the street. An upper level has been added to the row house, cladded in corrugated aluminum—a material once common to industrial spaces that has gained popularity amongst architects over the years due to its affordability, durability, and availability. The extensio...

Stepping inside Studio MK27's polished SP_Penthouse

2016-09-01T14:09:00-04:00

The SP_Penthouse in Sao Paulo isn't Don Draper's never-before-seen getaway from a lost episode of “Mad Men”, although it can surely pass as a set for the TV show with all those modernist furnishings. Since Studio MK27 completed the polished abode last year, it has gained recognition in notable design competitions like the 2016 AZ Awards and the latest INSIDE: World Festival of Interiors shortlist. The designers have been in the global spotlight as well for other Sao Paulo projects like the Cultura Bookstore.

Led by Studio MK27's Marcio Kogan, Diana Radomysler and Luciana Antunes, the firm's main objective was to create spatial continuity and a “cozy and solemn atmosphere” throughout the three-floor penthouse, they state. “Infinite circulations accentuate the fluidity between the spaces and configure functional pathways.” But careful architectural details and furnishings make all the difference, giving every space its own character.

The house's large corridors aren't mere passagew...

Live in Muji's Window House for two years, for free

2016-08-11T17:54:00-04:00

Still dreaming about living in one of Muji's pre-fab houses? That wish can come true for one lucky person, and maybe their family or friends. The lifestyle brand is currently accepting applications for a two-year residency in a new test model of Muji's Window House in Kamakura—rent-free and fully furnished.

Unlike the Vertical House that was designed to squeeze into Tokyo's tight spaces, the Window House can enjoy more wiggle room in areas with less urban density. The seaside town of Kamakura has a population of approximately 174,000, while Tokyo boasts about 13.6 million.

Photos via Spoon & Tamago.

As its name states, the two-story Window House has windows on all four sides that are strategically positioned to allow for optimal airflow and natural light. Although Muji will cover the expenses, the winning applicant — whether it's a single person, a group of friends, or a family — will have to provide feedback about their experience to staff in an ongoing monitoring process. On top of t...