You might call Marc Even the king of floating homes. Even just completed yet another floating home, entitled “Green Home & Tender,” adding yet another custom home to his portfolio.

Here is what the designer had to say about the project:

Both main and guest homes are built on state of the art concrete floats with concrete planters and built-in concrete accent walls. The balance of their homes were requested to be kept very simple, utilizing a mix of commercial/industrial with rough sawn reverse board and bat siding to give the home a country feel. The interior is very open with walls that do not go higher than 7′ and floors made of re-claimed 1′x6′ sanded and sealed Ship Lap Fir.

The Stained Glu-Lam ceiling is at 9′-6″ with spiral ducting, corrugated galvanized metal with wood accents on the perimeter, and mono-point lighting. The owners selected an Artesian Finish concrete product that is used on floors, walls, see through direct vent fireplace, and kitchen countertops. Other elements of the homes include: a glass tile shower in the master bath, upper lighting to accent the roof, a second deck galvanized rail with hot tub, and a private front courtyard with a storage shed, connecting the main home to the tender via a walkway.”

[via freshome]

C.F. Møller Architects have taken the golden trophy home for a competition to design a new Opera and Culture Center in Norway. The concept behind the project was to embrace many different cultures all in one complex, and do it through specific venues such as opera, dance, education, and mixed activities.

The architects played with lights and shadows throughout the design, and the results are simply amazing. Entitled Kulturkvartalet, the project is suppose to be completed in 2014.

[via archdaily]

Working in a unique work environment can bring out the best in employees – giving them a sense of being apart of something different, rather than your average cubical. But not only that, it’s a great way to show off your brand to potential clientele.

In Stockholm, Sweden, a Swedish internet provider had the creative idea of turning a bomb shelter into their new office space. In collaboration with Albert France-Lanord (A)rchitects, the ISP has turned the shelter into an incredible office space.

[via home-designing]

When in your bedroom, sometimes you want privacy, other times openness. But with four walls surrounding you, it’s hard to achieve a wide-open environment without big windows exposing the most private room of your home.

Alma-nac created a small loft that combines privacy and openness using a small divider that lets the bedroom overlooks the living area. The room also features a bookcase which can slide to create a completely closed off bedroom, blocking people from the entry stairs.

[via dornob]

One of the most elegant architectural features that many designers are implementing into their projects currently is floor to ceiling windows. It brings the outside in and gives the home a connection with nature and their community.

Architect Werner van der Meulen has captured that feel in their new project located in South Africa. But rather than just your typical modern windows, designers implemented wood “shields” which gives the home a unique and elegant look.

Paired with a modern interior, the residence is full of charm. Outside, visitors will find an incredible pool along with an outdoor dining room. Pointed out by Freshome, an interesting aspect is the barbed wire that surrounds the home despite being extremely elegant – something you wouldn’t really expect.

[via freshome]

In Oda-City, Japan, a young couple dreamed up a house that looks like no other. The couple, who both are teachers, wanted to make three aspects a vital part of the design – privacy, provide warm and bright space, and to encourage their students to visit.

The couple hired y+Mdo, who faced the challenge of creating an open environment that yet was private and warm. In order to keep all of the client’s aspects in mind, the company decided to create a stair shaped house. The attention to detail that can be seen is simply jaw dropping. Every aspect of the house was incredible well house.

[via archdaily]

In Los Angeles, California, you’ll find the Hover House 3, a house where the world “unique” is an understatement. The creative mind behind the project was Glen Irani Architects.

The challenge that was creating the illusion of a hovering home, but looking at the finished product, one can see that he not only beat the challenge, he did it with elegance and style.

“Embodied energy analysis on major systems resulted in the use of exterior man-made slate panels, exposed concrete walls and radiant hydronic heating and many of the finishes. Natural ventilation is carefully devised with proper window placements and a wind tower that extend 9’ above the roof (the max allowed by code) in order to eliminate air conditioning. Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels offset 80% of power demands. With the exception of interior wall paint, all interior finishes are devised to last indefinitely so that future emissions from finish replacements are minimized or eliminated.”

[via freshome]

A transformation is taking place at the MGM Grand. Toronto based Yabu Pushulberg is in the process of designing the Shibuya Restaurant extension to the multi-billion dollar money maker.

The new restaurant is supposed to give customers the feel of Tokyo – a nightlife capital for the young and trendy. Just like any Vegas establishment, it’s not lacking of life, color, and the feel of big city living.

Shibuya isn’t new to Japanese cuisine either. The restaurant has won multiple awards for their sushi, Teppanyaki, and a wide range of sake and Japanese beers. Next time you’re in Vegas – don’t be shy, stop by.

[via chictip]

In Ocean View, Delaware, you’ll find an “electic mix” of houses lining the streets adjacent to the Chesapeake Bay. Robert M. Gurney is the man behind a project in the Quillen’s Point, a neighborhood consisting of houses that are located on relatively small plots of land – requiring Gurney to focus in on privacy.

On the outside, it sure looks like privacy – almost a prison. But the modern lines and intricate use of windows and walls gives it an appeal that’s like no other.

Rather than focusing attention on the surrounding area, mostly houses because of the small lot of land, Gurney focuses in the attention on a small garden located in the center of the house.

Gurney also gives attention to natural light. It seems like the entire house is even built on that aspect. While some sides of the house feature what seems to be nothing but walls, others encompass nothing but windows.

Our biggest liking – the modern lines. No matter where you look on the exterior or in the interior, it seems that you can’t find any place where they’re missing.

[via archinnovations]

Traditional design is nothing to be afraid, but rather accept and cherish. As many designers believe, rather than fight change, adapt to it. Those who are able to do that are bound for success.

In the Park Farm in Cornwell, a new remodel is underway, taking many traditional and classic materials and giving them a unique modern touch.

While many of the original wooden and worn beams are still exposed in the home, designers have added many built-in wooden fixtures, especially in the kitchen.

Despite the new modern feel with the addition of various fixtures, the remaining classic shell still stands prominent, giving visitors a clashing, yet appealing look.

[via dornob]