The wellness revolution has officially arrived in your home, and Kohler is leading the charge with their innovative line of at-home saunas. As more people prioritize self-care and seek spa-like experiences without leaving their homes, Kohler’s newest wellness offering provides the perfect solution for creating a personal sanctuary that promotes both physical and mental well-being. Their entry into the home sauna market represents a significant shift in how we approach wellness design. The at-home sauna is a direct response to this demand, making spa-like experiences more accessible and seamlessly integrated into daily life for homeowners.

Kohler saunas seem to have thoughtful design and premium craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from both 1970s iterations found in the brand’s archives and modern Kohler Waters Spas, these saunas feature high-quality Scandinavian spruce construction available in multiple finishes . The attention to detail extends to every aspect of the user experience, from the ergonomic Obeche wood headrest to state-of-the-art features that create a truly personalized wellness experience.

Designer: Kohler

The technology integrated into Kohler saunas is particularly impressive. Each unit includes ambient sunset lighting that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and stress relief. The intuitive touchscreen control system allows users to easily manage dual thermostats, ensuring optimal temperature control throughout their session. The innovative aerotherm ventilation system circulates air up to eight times per session, maintaining fresh air quality and enhancing the overall sauna experience.

Beyond the luxurious features, Kohler saunas offer substantial health benefits that make them a worthwhile investment in your well-being. Regular sauna use provides stress reduction, improved circulation, and detoxification, all within the privacy and hygiene of your own home . These benefits align perfectly with the growing cultural shift toward prioritizing health and self-care in our daily routines.

Kohler’s approach to wellness extends beyond individual products to create what Stevens describes as a “connected wellness ecosystem.” The brand envisions a future where your sauna can be integrated with other wellness products, such as ice baths and digital cold-mode showers, for seamless contrast therapy experiences . This comprehensive approach positions Kohler as a one-stop solution for homeowners looking to create a complete wellness routine at home. The versatility of Kohler saunas makes them suitable for various home configurations, with both indoor and outdoor models available. This flexibility allows homeowners to incorporate wellness into their existing spaces or design new areas specifically dedicated to health and relaxation.

For those considering this wellness investment, Kohler saunas represent more than just a luxury addition to the home. They offer a practical solution for busy individuals who want to prioritize their health but struggle to find time for regular spa visits. With the convenience of home access, users can easily incorporate sauna sessions into their daily routines, making self-care more accessible and sustainable than ever before.

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Designed by Dragon Tiny Homes, the Genesis V2 strips away everything unnecessary to reveal what compact living truly means. This 16-foot masterpiece transforms 135 square feet into a super comfy tiny home that values function over flash. Starting at $39,500, the home casually reinvents what affordable housing can accomplish. The clean lines and purposeful layout represent a thoughtful design philosophy that worships substance over superficial details.

The loft-style bedroom maximizes vertical space while maintaining comfortable proportions for two occupants. Below, the main living area flows seamlessly between functions, with generous glazing that floods the space with natural light. The kitchen occupies just enough space to handle essential cooking tasks – it includes a two-burner induction cooktop, a sink, fridge/freezer, and some cabinetry.

Designer: Dragon Tiny Homes

The bathroom is fully functional, despite the home occupying a minimal square footage. A complete shower, sink, and flushing toilet arrangement proves that compact doesn’t mean compromise on basic needs. The space planning here reflects careful consideration of daily routines and movement patterns. Clean finishes and efficient fixtures create a bathroom that feels complete rather than condensed. This attention to essential amenities makes the Genesis V2 a genuine home territory rather than a basic shelter.

Climate control receives careful attention through a mini-split heater and air conditioning system and a ceiling fan combination. These mechanical systems ensure year-round comfort without overwhelming the compact space or energy systems. The dual approach to temperature management shows understanding of how small spaces can quickly become uncomfortable without proper ventilation. The systems integrate seamlessly into the overall design without creating visual clutter or operational complexity.

Who is the Genesis V2 best suited for?

The Genesis V2 is ideal for first-time tiny home buyers, minimalist couples, and anyone seeking an affordable entry into compact living. Its 16-foot design and efficient layout make it perfect for singles or pairs who value function, comfort, and simplicity over excess space.

With its ready-to-go availability and approachable price, the Genesis V2 is also a smart choice for those looking to downsize, embrace a minimalist lifestyle, or add a flexible guest house or vacation retreat to their property. It seems ideal for buyers who want to experience tiny living without navigating complex customization processes

Are there any drawbacks to the Genesis V2 tiny home?

The tiny home offers impressive affordability and a great design, but there are some drawbacks to consider:

• Limited Space: With only 135 square feet, the Genesis V2 may feel cramped for more than two people or those with lots of belongings.
• Minimal Storage: Storage options are basic, so buyers with significant storage needs may find it challenging to stay organized.
• Small Kitchen: The kitchen is compact, with limited counter space and cabinetry, which may not suit those who love to cook or entertain.
• Loft Access: The sleeping loft is accessed by a ladder, which may not be ideal for those with mobility concerns.

Our Take

The Genesis V2 manages to adopt a pretty mature approach to tiny home design, where genuine livability takes precedence over fleeting novelty. The updated version builds on lessons learned from the original Genesis while maintaining the core philosophy of functional minimalism that has made Dragon Tiny Homes a respected name in compact living.

Every design decision in the Genesis V2 reflects this maturation. The loft bedroom provides real comfort, the kitchen handles daily cooking needs, and the bathroom functions without compromise. It feels like a genuine home that happens to be compact rather than a novelty space that sacrifices comfort for size. This distinction matters enormously for anyone considering the transition to tiny living.

The post Affordable, Modern Living In 135 Square Feet: Is This the Perfect Tiny Home For First-Time Buyers? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Situated in the forested hills of Valea lui Enache, the CL02 Cabin by Vinklu beautifully shows us how minimalism can be both inspiring and deeply functional. The first impression is a sense of calm—a dark, understated silhouette softened by the filtered light of the surrounding trees. In this surreal cabin, less isn’t an aesthetic; it is intended to be a deliberate gesture toward finding contentment in simplicity. Every line and every finish supports the idea that a home should serve its inhabitants without demanding attention, quietly enabling the rituals of daily life.

The 55-square-meter structure stands where an earlier project failed, and it’s clear that Vinklu approached this second chance with a sense of reverence. The layout is straightforward: a ground floor with an open living area, a full kitchen, and a bathroom, and an upper level for rest. Each space is compact but never feels cramped, thanks to a vaulted ceiling and panoramic windows that extend the interior outward, inviting the forest in. The circular kitchen window frames a shifting tableau of leaves and light, turning even the most routine meal into an act of quiet observation.

Designer: Vinklu

The full-size kitchen is a luxury, especially in a home of this scale. It’s designed for those who find joy in cooking—ample countertop space, integrated appliances, and just enough storage to keep things tidy. The kitchen’s natural finishes echo the palette outside, blurring the boundary between interior and landscape.

The cabin is clad in dark, weather-resistant timber, allowing it to recede into the forest’s shadows. Inside, pale wood and minimal detailing create a sense of light and openness. There’s restraint in every decision, but also an invitation: to touch, to pause, to notice the subtle changes in the quality of light as the day moves on. The living area is open yet intimate, with just enough room for a small table and a pair of chairs. The focus isn’t on filling space but on creating an environment that feels both nurturing and uncluttered.

 

The CL02 Cabin’s relationship to its site is its most fabulous feature. The structure neither dominates nor disappears; it exists in dialogue with the landscape, responding to its contours and rhythms. Sustainability is embedded in the design—efficient insulation, passive solar orientation, and natural ventilation reduce the need for mechanical intervention. The house feels like a gentle addition to the hillside, its presence marked by sensitivity rather than intrusion.

Living in the CL02 Cabin is an exercise in mindful reduction. It’s not about doing without, but about having enough—and knowing that enough can be generous. There are compromises, of course: storage is limited, and the seasonal design may not suit every lifestyle. But for those drawn to clarity and contemplation, this is a space that offers both refuge and inspiration.

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The Waterbridge House shows us what it means to live both inside and out. Set amid the pines of Pebble Beach, this glass-clad sanctuary floats above the landscape, a calm, geometric silhouette that is as much an homage to nature as it is a feat of architecture. Designed by a local artist, the home’s spirit is rooted in the Japandi style, where Japanese calm and Scandinavian restraint meet the warmth of the California coast.

Staggered concrete steps emerge from the hillside, guiding you toward the house’s signature feature: a glass corridor that bridges a tranquil pool. This floating link is more than an entryway. It’s a threshold—a moment of pause between the everyday and the restorative energy within. The two wings that it connects speak to both privacy and togetherness.

Designer: Emily Yang Bauer

One wing features a spacious open-plan kitchen, living room, and dining area—perfect for gatherings and everyday living. The opposite wing is dedicated to privacy, offering a primary suite that opens onto a generous deck, a separate den or office, and two additional en-suite bedrooms. Below the common area, a separate guest suite with its own kitchenette and private entrance provides comfort and autonomy for visitors.

Waterbridge House’s minimalist form delivers a thoughtful complexity. The facade is a study in contrasts: bare white stucco, punctuated by vertical frameless windows, melts into entire glass walls that slide open to expansive decks. The effect is seamless. Indoors and outdoors blend, and natural light pours through the space, transforming at every hour. Here, the forest is never just a backdrop—it’s invited in, echoing along every surface and reflecting off the pool below.

Central to the home’s philosophy is its relationship with water and landscape. The glass corridor doesn’t only serve as a bridge – it is a calm vantage point, suspended between sky and pool, framing the shifting patterns of light and shade. It’s no wonder the house earned its name: Waterbridge. On quiet mornings, you might cross this bridge with coffee in hand, watching fog drift between trees and sunlight skip over ripples below.

The inspiration for Waterbridge House traces back centuries and continents. The staggered layout and bamboo-accented calm draw from the Cui Linglong, an 11th-century building in Suzhou, China. That legacy is felt most strongly in the home’s floating tea house—a conceptual pavilion accessed by its own set of concrete steps, perfect for contemplation or quiet gatherings. This gentle nod to history grounds the home’s modern lines, adding a layer of serenity and depth.

The house is blessed with light-filled spaces and a connection to nature, creating an atmosphere that is both calming and invigorating. The design offers privacy without isolation, and the floating glass bridge is a daily reminder of the home’s unique vision. The few cons—perhaps a less urban location or a minimalist palette that may not suit maximalist tastes—are far outweighed by the sense of peace and spaciousness.

The post Japandi-Inspired Home Showcases Floating Teahouse, Glass Bridge, & Sunlit Spaces In California first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Rowan Tiny Home is the latest offering from Tiny House Listings, and it takes a fresh attitude to small-space living. At first glance, it’s the clarity of its single-level layout and the inviting front porch that set the tone. The house stretches 34 feet in length and is slightly wider than most, measuring 10 feet across, which immediately gives the interior a more open and relaxed feel. Finished in engineered wood with a durable metal roof, the Rowan balances minimalist lines with a sense of solidity and comfort that’s rare among park model tiny homes.

The interior experience of the home is all about spaciousness and thoughtful functionality. The 340-square-foot interior unfolds in a way that feels purposeful and uncluttered, with each zone flowing effortlessly into the next. The living room greets you first—bright, comfortable, and anchored by a sofa and built-in cabinetry, it’s a space that easily accommodates lounging, conversation, or a quiet evening with a book. Natural light pours in from generous windows, reinforcing the home’s sense of calm and connection to its surroundings.

Designer: Tiny House Listings

The kitchen serves as the center of the home, and it is designed with everyday living in mind. There’s an induction cooktop, plenty of counter space, and room for additional appliances—unusual flexibility for a home of this size. Storage is handled with efficiency, with clever cabinetry and nooks that keep everything close at hand but out of sight. The dining area, just steps away, makes the most of the open plan, creating a seamless transition between meal prep, dining, and relaxation.

The bedroom is quite impressive, amped with a full double bed and built-in closet that offer comfort and practicality, while the single-level design means there’s no need for ladders or lofts. Ample headroom and easy circulation make this space feel like a true retreat, rather than a compromise. The bathroom, too, is generously sized for a tiny home, with a modern shower, vanity, and enough space to move around without feeling boxed in. Every detail has been chosen to support full-time living, from the fixtures to the layout.

One of Rowan’s strongest assets is its versatility. The covered front porch extends the living space outdoors, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The Rowan functions well as a primary residence or a weekend escape; its proportions and features adapt easily to different lifestyles. It’s a home that encourages you to slow down, focus on essentials, and enjoy the daily rituals of living.

The design language throughout is minimalist but never cold, with subtle Scandinavian influences that emphasize light, warmth, and natural materials. There’s a sense of permanence here—the Rowan isn’t just about squeezing life into a smaller footprint, but about expanding what’s possible in a compact home. It challenges assumptions about tiny living, offering an experience that feels grounded, comfortable, and genuinely livable.

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LEGO creations have long blurred the line between toy and art, with builders recreating everything from classic cars to full-scale architectural icons. For Richard Paules, it was a childhood passion that turned into an extraordinary pursuit of miniature realism. After winning attention for his detailed LEGO model of Dulles International Airport, Paules has now unveiled his most ambitious build yet: a stunning replica of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, constructed from approximately 150,000 LEGO bricks.

The massive model is set to go on display in the ticketing area of Terminal 2 next week, just before the TSA checkpoint. Weighing nearly 120 pounds, the replica showcases the airport’s unique architecture, from the domed ceilings and expansive skylights to the multi-level arrivals and departures layout. It even includes a realistic baggage claim area, gate seating, jet bridges, and signature airfield markings. Every detail, down to the exact floor patterning, has been meticulously replicated with plastic bricks.

Designer: Richard Paules

Paules spent nine months designing and assembling the model, calling it the most challenging project he had ever undertaken. Compared to his previous Dulles build, this one pushed his skills further due to Reagan National’s complex structural features and curved rooflines. As a solo builder, Paules had to manage both the creative vision and the physical logistics, including how to transport such a large and fragile piece safely to the airport. The project, now complete, reflects not only his technical skill but his deep fascination with aviation and public spaces.

The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority worked closely with Paules throughout the process, helping coordinate installation and display logistics. Airport staff were reportedly stunned by the model’s accuracy, with one operations manager noting how the LEGO version captured the character of the terminal almost perfectly. The model is currently hidden behind a curtain on the ticketing level between doors three and four, and will be unveiled to the public next Monday.

This installation continues a growing trend of using public art and interactive displays in transit hubs to enhance the traveler experience. Instead of rushing past generic hallways, passengers at Reagan National will now encounter an unexpected moment of creativity—one that offers both nostalgia and inspiration. The display also serves as a conversation piece for both aviation buffs and casual travelers, giving them a chance to appreciate the complexity of the airport in miniature.

Following the success of his Dulles model, Paules has again demonstrated how LEGO can transform familiar infrastructure into works of art. His Reagan National build is not just a tribute to architecture or transportation, it’s a celebration of patience, precision, and play. For many who pass through Terminal 2, this impressive creation will likely become an unexpected highlight of their journey. For LEGO enthusiasts, well… it’ll be another build to take inspiration from and come up with something equally stunning.

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Los Angeles has long been at the epicenter of America’s housing crisis, with high costs and limited inventory making homeownership unaffordable for many. The multiple fires this year have also made the situation worse. This year, a new wave of optimism and hope arrived with the “Small Lots, Big Impacts” initiative, a collaboration between the City of Los Angeles, UCLA’s CityLab, and advocacy group LA4LA.

Their design competition invited architects to reimagine starter homes for city-owned small lots, challenging the notion that space is the primary barrier to affordable, family-friendly housing. The result is a collection of inventive, buildable homes that could reshape the city’s housing landscape. The competition was divided into two categories, “Gentle Density” and “Shared Future,” each encouraging creative approaches to maximize livability on minimal footprints.

Designers Featured: WORD, SSK, Light & Air & Olsun Kundig

One of the entries is Shared Steps, designed by California architecture studios WORD and SSK. Responding to the challenges of infill development, the team devised a composition of stepped buildings that reads as a single, cohesive residential facade from the street. Behind this unified exterior, however, are three separate, three-storey buildings, each accompanied by its accessory dwelling unit (ADU).

Also in the Gentle Density category, Brooklyn-based studio Light and Air presented 4X4X4, a scheme that brings four three-level houses to a single lot, each with the capacity for ground-floor ADUs. The design uses precast concrete panels punctuated with generous cutouts, allowing for floor-to-ceiling glass and expansive terraces. These features cultivate an indoor-outdoor lifestyle that resonates with Los Angeles’ climate and culture, while the stacked format delivers the density required to make a real impact on housing availability.

Nationally recognized firms also made their mark on the competition. Olson Kundig’s entry envisions a “vertical neighbourhood,” using a scalable mass-timber structure clad with solar panels. This design weaves together three primary buildings with shared amenity spaces, and its modular units can be removed or reconfigured to carve out outdoor spaces as needed. The flexibility of this plan is particularly valuable in a city as dynamic and diverse as Los Angeles, offering the possibility for custom-tailored community spaces and a sustainable, adaptable housing model.

What ties these projects together is their blend of density, flexibility, and a deep sensitivity to context. Rather than imposing generic solutions, the designs respond to the unique qualities of Los Angeles’ neighborhoods and the economic realities of its residents. These refreshing and impressive concepts leverage small lots and innovative design strategies, and could help unlock thousands of new homes, making the dream of affordable homeownership and vibrant, walkable communities more attainable for all Angelenos.

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Amnesia House, designed by Edmonds + Lee Architects, introduces an uncommon sense of calm in the wilds of Northern California. Conceived as a minimalist retreat, the home steps away from the city’s demands, offering a space that feels both elemental and contemporary. Its structure responds not only to the shifting light and landscape, but also to the pressing realities of fire resilience, integrating function without sacrificing a certain quietude. The home’s geometry is simple, its palette muted, expressing a belief that beauty emerges from restraint.

Entering the Amnesia House, one notices how openness defines the experience. Expansive glass frames the forest, letting daylight move freely across polished concrete floors and white oak millwork. The main living space is open and uncluttered, anchored by a kitchen that blends seamlessly into the architecture. While every detail feels deliberate, nothing distracts from the view or the sense of escape. Amnesia House is not an exhibition of excess but a distillation of what’s necessary for rest and reflection.

Designer: Edmonds + Lee Architects

The architects created this design with a clear intention: to build a counterpoint to their celebrated Remember House in San Francisco. Where the urban project is layered and gallery-like, Amnesia House is more monastic, favoring horizontality and understatement. The roofline is crisp, echoing the brush of the landscape, while deep overhangs provide shelter from both sun and wildfire embers. This sensitivity to the environment is present in every aspect, from the fire-resistant materials to the way the building settles into its site.

Living here is about engaging with the elements rather than shutting them out. Windows slide open to the breeze, and the main terrace extends the living area outdoors, blurring the distinction between interior and exterior. The furniture is minimal, the art sparse, leaving room for the changing light and the sounds of the forest to become the home’s true adornments. There’s a deliberate absence of distraction that encourages a slower pace, a deeper connection with the landscape.

The plan of the home is efficient—two bedrooms, a flexible guest suite, and a main living core that adapts to both solitude and gathering. Every finish is chosen for durability and ease of maintenance, reflecting an understanding that a weekend retreat should never become a burden. The firewise strategies—metal roofing, non-combustible siding, minimal landscaping close to the house—are integrated so seamlessly that they become part of the architecture’s overall serenity.

Amnesia House champions an approach to living that finds luxury in simplicity and resilience. Rather than striving for spectacle, the architects frame the essentials: light, shelter, and a connection to place. The result is a home that fosters reflection and comfort, offering its owners not just a retreat from the city but a gentle reminder of the elemental pleasures of quiet design. In this way, Amnesia House serves as both a functional refuge and a subtle meditation on the art of living well.

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Buildings are responsible for a huge share of global carbon emissions, especially during the production of materials like cement. Traditional concrete manufacturing is one of the biggest sources of CO2 worldwide. If we can switch to materials that don’t just stop this but even use CO2 to our advantage, then we can make a big difference in fighting climate change. Imagine a future where our homes and offices not only look beautiful but also help clean the air by capturing carbon dioxide (CO2).

Thanks to a team of scientists at ETH Zurich, that future might be closer than we think. They have developed a remarkable new building material that doesn’t just sit there. It’s actually alive and actively helping the planet. This groundbreaking material is a type of concrete, but with a twist: it contains living bacteria. These aren’t just any bacteria as they are specially chosen because they can turn carbon dioxide from the air into solid minerals. That means while regular concrete actually releases CO2 during its production, this living material absorbs it, helping to reduce greenhouse gases in our atmosphere.

Designer: ETH Zurich

Inside the material, millions of bacteria are hard at work. These bacteria are fed a mixture of nutrients, including calcium. When they “eat,” they react with CO2 in the air, producing solid calcium carbonate. This process is similar to how seashells form in nature. Over time, the bacteria help the material grow stronger while trapping more carbon dioxide. The scientists designed their material to be porous, which means it has lots of tiny holes. These holes give bacteria plenty of room to live and work, while also allowing air to pass through so the bacteria can capture CO2 efficiently.

The new living material could be used in walls, floors, or even outdoor structures. Imagine a city full of buildings that quietly soak up CO2 day after day, making the air cleaner for everyone. But the benefits don’t stop there. The production of this living material uses less energy than regular concrete. Plus, the process is designed to be sustainable from start to finish. The bacteria don’t need fancy care—they just need a bit of food and the right conditions to thrive. If a piece of the material breaks, it can even “heal” itself. The bacteria inside can repair small cracks by producing more calcium carbonate, just like how your skin heals a cut. This could help buildings last longer and require less maintenance.

The research team is still working on perfecting their creation. They want to make sure the material is strong enough for real-world use and figure out the best ways to produce it on a large scale. There are also questions about how the bacteria will behave over many years and in different climates. Still, the early results are very promising. This living building material could offer a win-win solution: helping to build the cities of tomorrow while also cleaning up the air today.

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A new era of travel begins in Western Sydney with the unveiling of its international airport, a project that redefines what airport architecture can offer both passengers and the broader community. Designed with a focus on seamless movement, natural light, and environmental stewardship, the terminal is a study in how infrastructure can evoke welcome, clarity, and place. Its architecture is marked by an expansive, sculpted ceiling, creating a canopy that diffuses sunlight through the terminal and shapes the traveler’s first impressions of Australia.

Carefully considered circulation routes guide visitors from the curbside through check-in, security, and departure gates with minimal friction. Wide, open sightlines and intuitive wayfinding help reduce stress, while generous glazing throughout ensures that daylight is never far away. The material palette, grounded in warm wood, glass, and metal, brings in a sense of calm and durability. Passengers move through spaces that feel both monumental and approachable, an accomplishment that reflects the project’s ambition to balance the demands of efficiency with an elevated experience.

Designers: COX Architecture and Zaha Hadid Architects

The project employs a modular design that streamlines construction and reduces waste. Energy efficiency is prioritized through extensive use of daylight, high-performance glazing, and passive shading. Natural ventilation systems and water recycling further minimize the building’s environmental footprint. The approach is pragmatic but never clinical—technology serves to enhance comfort, not dictate it.

The sinuous ceiling, a signature gesture, is more than a visual flourish. It references the undulating Australian landscape and modulates the interior environment, providing both shade and a gentle play of light. This design move is echoed in the terminal’s external form, where the building sits low and broad, anchoring itself in the terrain rather than dominating it. The result is a structure that feels rooted, resilient, and unmistakably local.

Public spaces are generous, designed for lingering as much as for passing through. Seating areas are organized around panoramic views, and retail and dining are integrated without overwhelming the journey. For many travelers, this terminal will serve as their first encounter with Australia, and the design team has crafted an experience that is welcoming without being overwhelming, contemporary yet distinctly connected to its context.

Operationally, the airport is built for flexibility, ready to adapt as passenger volumes grow. The terminal is designed to handle 10 million travelers annually at launch, with capacity for expansion as Western Sydney continues to develop. Behind the tranquil experience is an infrastructure system engineered for reliability, efficiency, and future growth. This new gateway is a benchmark for what civic architecture can achieve. It doesn’t rely on spectacle but on thoughtful, human-centric design. Every feature—from the interplay of light and material to the integration of sustainable strategies—serves to create a sense of arrival and belonging.

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When Frank Lloyd Wright designed the original Imperial Hotel Tokyo, in 1923, he unknowingly initiated an architectural lineage that would span three generations of Ja, he unknowingly initiated an architectural lineage that would span three generations of Japanese designers and nearly a century of cultural evolution. That lineage reaches its most sophisticated expression in the upcoming Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, where the paradoxical design philosophy of “the oldest things are the newest” guides the transformation of a 90-year-old theater into a 55-room boutique hotel opening Spring 2026.

Design: Frank Lloyd Wright + Tokusaburo Kimura + Mr. Tomoyuki Sakakida

The project represents far more than historic preservation. Under the direction of Tomoyuki Sakakida of New Material Research Laboratory, co-founded with renowned photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto, the hotel embodies an archaeological approach to contemporary design that challenges fundamental assumptions about luxury, authenticity, and cultural stewardship. Their methodology researches and develops “new materials” from ancient and medieval techniques through radical reinterpretation, creating what may be the hospitality industry’s most comprehensive example of circular design philosophy in practice.

The Wright-Kimura-Sakakida Continuum

The architectural DNA connecting Wright’s original Imperial Hotel to today’s Kyoto project flows through Tokusaburo Kimura, the respected Obayashi Corporation architect who designed the Yasaka Kaikan in 1936. Research reveals that Kimura’s work was profoundly shaped by both Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. His Shochikuza Theater in Osaka featured American-made terracotta and evoked Sullivan’s distinctive style, while his Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater in Kyoto incorporated scratch tiles originally brought to Japan by Wright for the Imperial Hotel Tokyo construction.

The Yasaka Kaikan stands as the culmination of Kimura’s architectural evolution, where Sullivan’s ornamental philosophy merged with Wright’s organic principles and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Both the original Imperial Hotel and the Yasaka Kaikan feature terracotta from Tokoname, manufactured by the same artisans who worked across both projects. This shared material heritage creates an authentic connection that transcends stylistic influence to encompass actual physical continuity.

Ms. Reiko Sakata, General Manager of the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto and a 22-year Imperial Hotel veteran appointed in April 2025, emphasizes this historical depth: “This is a unique property where over a millennium of Kyoto’s cultural heritage enfolds the 135-year legacy of hospitality Imperial Hotel has carefully cultivated.” The hotel’s mission extends beyond exceptional service to preserving the “lasting warmth” that connects guests to place and tradition.

The contemporary interpretation falls to Sakakida, whose New Material Research Laboratory has spent over a decade developing what they term “archaeological architecture.” Founded in 2008 with Sugimoto, the laboratory’s approach treats historical materials and techniques as living resources rather than museum artifacts. Their philosophy advocates for reconnecting the present with bygone eras while extending that connection to the future through thoughtful intervention.

“Your Stage Awaits”: Design as Performance

The hotel’s positioning as a “sanctuary nestled beside the brilliance of Gion’s performing arts” that “begins a new chapter that revitalized, yet deeply rooted in its legacy” establishes a theatrical metaphor that permeates every design decision. The concept of “Your Stage Awaits” transforms hospitality from passive accommodation into active cultural participation, where “comfort takes center stage in every moment you spend.”

This performance-centered approach honors the Yasaka Kaikan’s original function as a “stunning venue originally designed for theatrical performances” while creating new opportunities for guests to engage with Kyoto’s living cultural heritage. The design maintains the building’s dramatic proportions and acoustical considerations, ensuring that public spaces retain the theatrical scale and sight lines that defined the original experience.

The theatrical heritage extends beyond metaphor to material reality. Eaves tiles engraved with the character “歌” (uta, meaning singing) represent the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo’s performance legacy, while the building’s multi-tiered roof and tower-like front section maintain the Japanese-inspired design that has defined Gion’s protected townscape for nearly a century.

Advanced Preservation as Design Innovation

The transformation demonstrates extraordinary technical sophistication through what Obayashi Corporation terms “selective demolition” and “capturing for reuse” advanced techniques that strategically retain key structural and aesthetic elements while enabling comprehensive renovation. The process involved reinforcing existing exterior walls with steel framing during phased demolition, allowing the building’s iconic silhouette to remain intact while meeting contemporary hospitality standards.

Masahiro Inoue, Senior General Manager of Obayashi’s Architectural Design & Engineering Division and leader of the Traditional Architecture and Heritage Project Team, brings international perspective from studying design in the UK, where adaptive reuse is commonplace. His approach emphasizes carrying forward “the memories and history embedded in the building into the future,” treating preservation as creative practice rather than conservation constraint.

The material preservation extends to architectural details that encode cultural meaning. 16,387 original exterior tiles have been preserved using traditional Japanese ikedori or “live capture” techniques, where materials are carefully removed without damage for reuse. Terracotta elements receive particular attention, with pieces in good condition carefully restored and damaged sections scanned in 3D for faithful reproduction using original Tokoname manufacturing techniques.

The preservation of terracotta creates direct material continuity with Wright’s Imperial Hotel, as both buildings feature ceramics from Ina Seito (later INAX, now LIXIL) in Tokoname City. This shared material heritage represents one of the finest examples of Japanese architectural ceramics from the early 20th century, when Western architectural techniques merged with traditional Japanese craftsmanship to create distinctly modern expressions.

Cultural Stewardship Through Design

The hotel’s location within the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo grounds adds layers of cultural complexity that inform every design decision. The Kaburenjo, a nationally registered tangible cultural property completed in 1913, originally served as a temple before adaptation as a theater for maiko and geiko performances. The building has hosted the famous Miyako Odori spring dance since 1873, making it one of Japan’s most significant venues for traditional performing arts.

This context shapes the hotel’s approach to spatial design and guest experience. Rather than treating traditional culture as backdrop for luxury hospitality, the design creates opportunities for authentic engagement with living heritage practices. The seven-story structure will house 55 guestrooms and suites designed to honor the building’s performance heritage while providing contemporary comfort, with public spaces maintaining the dramatic proportions and acoustical considerations of the original theater.

The New Material Research Laboratory’s “archaeological architecture” approach treats the building as a palimpsest—layers of meaning and history that remain visible and integral to the new function. Their methodology researches traditional techniques not as museum artifacts but as living resources that can inform contemporary practice. The approach demonstrates how preservation can enhance rather than constrain contemporary design, creating experiences that feel both rooted in place and relevant to present needs.

The construction team has embraced community engagement throughout the process, participating in local cleanup efforts and cultural events that reinforce the hotel’s role as cultural steward rather than external developer. This approach reflects the broader philosophy of architecture as social practice, where buildings serve communities rather than merely accommodating guests.

International Context, Japanese Expression

Inoue’s experience studying design in the UK informed the project’s approach to adaptive reuse, noting that “in Europe, such adaptive reuses are quite common” and that “new construction and renovation were often handled side by side.” This international perspective positions the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto within global heritage preservation trends while maintaining distinctly Japanese approaches to cultural stewardship.

The project demonstrates how contemporary luxury hospitality can embrace environmental responsibility without compromising guest experience. The preservation-first approach dramatically reduces the project’s carbon footprint compared to new construction, while the retention of original materials maintains the building’s embodied energy and cultural significance.

Dining concepts will showcase Kyoto’s position as Japan’s culinary capital while honoring the building’s role as community gathering place. The signature restaurant and bar maintain the original architecture’s community-focused design while providing luxury dining experiences that reflect seasonal ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The wellness facilities, including spa, swimming pool, and fitness center, incorporate principles of wa (harmony) that emphasize balance between physical wellness and spiritual tranquility.

“Uniting the Finest Artistry and Technology”

The project’s tagline of “uniting the finest artistry and technology, we breathe life into the timeless legacy of Gion” encapsulates the New Material Research Laboratory’s approach to contemporary design. By treating preservation as innovation rather than constraint, the project demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship can inform cutting-edge hospitality experiences.

The hotel will offer comprehensive wellness amenities designed using principles that reference both the building’s theatrical heritage and Kyoto’s temple garden traditions. Water features and spatial design create environments that feel both familiar and extraordinary, honoring the building’s role in Kyoto’s cultural ecosystem while meeting contemporary luxury standards.

As the fourth property in the Imperial Hotel portfolio following Tokyo, Osaka, and Kamikochi, this marks the brand’s first new opening in three decades. The extended development timeline, with construction completion scheduled for October 2025 and opening in Spring 2026, reflects the project’s commitment to getting every preservation detail right while building anticipation among design enthusiasts and cultural tourists worldwide.

The property’s acceptance into The Leading Hotels of the World collection in April 2025 provides international recognition of its unique integration of cultural preservation, sustainable design, and exceptional service standards. This prestigious affiliation positions the hotel within a global luxury context while maintaining its deeply local character and cultural mission.

Setting New Standards for Heritage Hospitality

The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto project challenges industry assumptions about the relationship between luxury and authenticity. By choosing restoration over new construction, Imperial Hotel demonstrates how heritage preservation can enhance rather than constrain contemporary hospitality experiences. The approach proves that guests increasingly value authentic connection to place and culture over generic luxury amenities.

Inoue reflects on the project’s broader significance: “It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to engage with Kimura’s blueprints – almost as if speaking across time. And that is precisely what makes the rebirth of the historic Yasaka Kaikan as a hotel so meaningful for future generations.” This temporal dialogue between past and present architects exemplifies the project’s approach to design as cultural continuity rather than stylistic imitation.

The New Material Research Laboratory’s “archaeological architecture” approach offers a compelling model for future heritage hospitality projects. By treating preservation as creative practice rather than constraint, the methodology demonstrates how contemporary design can honor the past while serving present needs and protecting future possibilities. For Yanko Design’s design-conscious audience, this project represents the future of hospitality design, where preservation and innovation create value greater than the sum of their parts.

The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto establishes a new model for heritage hospitality that honors the past while serving contemporary needs. The project demonstrates that true luxury emerges from authentic connection to place, culture, and craft, principles that Frank Lloyd Wright himself championed and that continue to guide exceptional hospitality design today.

The post Reviving Frank Lloyd Wright’s Legacy: Imperial Hotel Kyoto’s “Old Is New” Philosophy Transforms 90-Year-Old Theater first appeared on Yanko Design.

After more than a decade of anticipation, New York’s East River will soon host one of the city’s most intriguing public amenities: +POOL. This 9,000-square-foot floating pool isn’t just about fun; it’s a thoughtful blend of design, technology, and city life. The concept is simple yet ambitious—a plus-shaped pool that filters river water and creates four distinct swimming zones, each tailored for different experiences. Construction has finally begun, and New Yorkers are watching closely as the project prepares for its maiden season at Pier 35.

The +POOL design doesn’t camouflage its purpose—a crisp, geometric outline floats just off the Lower East Side, accessible by a slim walkway. Inside, the water isn’t chlorinated or piped in from somewhere else. Instead, a multi-layered filtration system draws in water from the river, purifies it, and returns it to the flow when swimming is done. This makes the pool both a functional recreation spot and a public demonstration of clean water technology. For a city built on its waterways but often disconnected from them, the pool is a quietly radical choice.

Designers: Dong-Ping Wong, Oana Stanescu, Archie Lee Coates IV & Jeffrey Franklin

The +POOL includes four sections—a lap pool, lounge pool, kids’ pool, and sports pool – which invite all types of swimmers. The structure’s modularity means it can be configured for lessons, workouts, or just a cool dip on a humid summer day. The 9,000-square-foot footprint is generous but not overwhelming, and the pool’s floating nature allows it to navigate changing tides and city rhythms. Placed in the East River, it offers city dwellers a safe, inviting space to swim—something that’s been missing from Manhattan for generations.

The technology driving +POOL sets it apart from typical urban pools. Its filtration system is chemical-free and engineered to meet rigorous health standards. The vessel, constructed at a Mississippi shipyard, will soon make its way north, ready for installation and testing. Once it’s docked and operational, the pool will process thousands of gallons of river water daily, ensuring swimmers experience clean, clear conditions.

Public benefit is woven throughout the project’s DNA. For years, Friends of +POOL—the nonprofit force behind the idea—has hosted educational programs, floating art installations, and water quality workshops. The pool’s eventual opening represents more than a new place to swim. It’s a culmination of activism, design thinking, and civic collaboration. It also signals a shift in how New Yorkers might interact with their waterfront, reframing the city’s rivers as sites of possibility rather than barriers.

Looking ahead, +POOL is poised to become a new urban icon. Its presence will be immediate and unmistakable, a visual reminder that design can bridge utility and delight. By inviting the public into the river, safely and beautifully, +POOL offers a new model for urban swimming and city engagement. As the project moves closer to opening day, it stands as proof to what’s possible when vision, engineering, and community meet at the water’s edge.

The post NYC’s Floating, Self-Filtering Pool Brings Clean Swimming To The East River first appeared on Yanko Design.

Floating quietly on the lakes of Dorset, a new breed of houseboat is redefining waterside living. Called Silverlake, these architect-designed residences are the result of a collaboration between design studio Koto and Waterpod, bringing together Scandinavian restraint and a deep respect for nature. The vision is simple: to offer a home that feels both rooted and free, where modern comforts coexist with the gentle rhythms of water and wildlife.

The exterior lines are clean and minimal, echoing the best of Nordic modular architecture. Large windows and natural timber finishes anchor each houseboat in its surroundings, blurring the boundary between inside and out. Every angle is considered, every space intentional. From the deck, the ever-changing play of light on the water becomes part of daily life, offering a sense of calm that’s rare in traditional homes.

Designer: Koto & Waterpod

The layout of the home balances openness and privacy. Living rooms spill out onto terraces, kitchens are compact yet fully equipped, and bedrooms are designed for restful quiet. Thoughtfully built-in maximizes storage without intruding on the aesthetic. Soft, neutral palettes and tactile materials create a welcoming backdrop, inviting residents to shape the space to their rhythms. It’s a home that adapts easily—ideal for full-time living or restful weekends away.

What makes these floating homes unique is their commitment to sustainability. Constructed with responsibly sourced materials, the houseboats rely on energy-efficient systems and low-impact building methods. The floating foundation itself disturbs little of the natural ecosystem, while the design encourages a lighter environmental footprint. Living here is as much about stewardship as it is about comfort, with every detail supporting a harmonious relationship with the water and land.

Flexibility is another key strength. Each residence offers a customizable interior, with options for layout and finishes to suit individual preferences. The moorings at Silverlake provide both privacy and access to a vibrant community, where woodland walks and water sports are steps away. It’s a setting that fosters both solitude and connection, making it an appealing choice for families, couples, or solo dwellers seeking something out of the ordinary.

This collection of houseboats introduces a new standard to the UK market—a rare blend of design, sustainability, and lifestyle. By bringing together modern architectural thinking and a commitment to ecological responsibility, the project creates more than just a place to stay; it offers a way of living that’s attuned to both contemporary needs and the timeless appeal of the water’s edge. For those drawn to the idea of a home that’s as adaptable and inspiring as its surroundings, these floating residences deliver on every front.

The post Luxurious & Sustainable Floating Homes Bring Modern Scandinavian Design To Dorset’s Lakes first appeared on Yanko Design.

The 61st-floor penthouse at Bentley Residences Miami demonstrates how automotive design principles translate into residential architecture, creating a $37.5 million living space that accommodates up to seven vehicles alongside human occupants. This two-story residence represents one of only two such units in the world’s first Bentley-branded residential tower, scheduled for completion in 2028. The penthouse includes four bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a powder room, study, entertainment loft, and service quarters designed for hosting events. Private indoor and outdoor pools create connections between interior and exterior spaces, while a sunset terrace and summer kitchen extend entertaining capabilities to the outdoor environment. The starting price positions this property among the highest-priced penthouse offerings on Sunny Isles Beach, with Bentley Home interior design services available as optional additions. Development by Dezer Development continues their branded residential portfolio that has generated over $3.6 billion in sales across 2,700 units.

Designer: Bentley

Candle Flames Survive 61st Floor Ocean Winds

The penthouse’s balcony system addresses wind interference through engineering that allows candle flames to remain stable on the terrace. Traditional oceanfront balconies in Miami often become unusable due to strong coastal winds that make outdoor living uncomfortable at ground level, creating exponentially worse conditions at high elevation.

Bentley’s engineering team developed solutions that cut through the characteristic gusty conditions while maintaining unobstructed views of The Atlantic, downtown Fort Lauderdale, and Miami’s skyline. This wind protection performs with sufficient effectiveness that outdoor dining and entertaining remain comfortable despite the 61st-floor elevation. The engineering solution demonstrates precision aerodynamic design that solves common problems in high-rise coastal residential projects through technical innovation rather than architectural compromise. The 22-foot ceiling heights throughout the interior create volumetric space that allows natural light to penetrate deep into the residence while supporting air circulation systems necessary for Florida’s subtropical climate. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views and light conditions that change throughout the day, creating shifting illumination patterns that interact with interior materials and spatial organization. The vertical space accommodates mechanical systems required for climate control at this elevation while creating openness that complements panoramic ocean views.

Arriving via private elevator foyer, residents encounter spaces designed around relationships between interior volume and exterior vistas. The passenger and vehicle elevators provide separate access points that maintain residential character while accommodating automotive integration that defines the project.

Natural Stone Meets Crystal Panel Integration

Bentley Home’s interior design concept centers on material relationships between natural stone, high-quality oak, and transparent crystal panels. The stone provides thermal mass and visual weight that anchors the space, while oak introduces organic warmth through grain patterns and natural color variations that change as light conditions shift throughout the day.

Crystal panels create visual lightness that prevents substantial materials from overwhelming living spaces, establishing dynamic tension between substance and airiness that animates the interior environment. The material selections respond directly to the oceanfront setting visible through expansive windows, with neutral colors and soft textures that complement rather than compete with the dramatic seascape beyond. Curving walls throughout the penthouse enhance flow between rooms while improving acoustics by eliminating hard corners that create sound reflection issues in large spaces. These curved surfaces reflect flowing lines characteristic of Bentley’s automotive design, translated into architectural language that creates organic transitions between spaces. The curves serve practical functions by improving sound distribution and eliminating harsh reflections that occur in large spaces with traditional rectangular room configurations.

Art Deco influences appear in geometric patterns of crystal panels, proportions of curved walls, and relationships between horizontal and vertical design elements. This creates bridges between Bentley’s British heritage and Miami’s distinctive design culture, synthesizing influences that feel natural rather than forced.

Gil Dezer’s Hydraulic Car-Lift Revolution

The Dezervator system represents Gil Dezer’s patented vehicle-elevator technology that debuted at the Porsche Design Tower in Sunny Isles Beach, where residents park cars in the building’s core. The system combines hydraulics and electric drives to lift vehicles with drivers inside directly from ground level to in-unit garages without requiring occupants to exit their cars.

RFID tags identify each vehicle and trigger LED guidance systems that direct cars to the proper elevator shaft. Once inside the elevator, the system grips vehicles by their tires and transfers them via robotic shuttle into stacked garage configurations. Transparency around the elevator shaft provides sweeping views during the ascent, turning the parking process into a scenic experience. The Porsche Design Tower installation spans 60 floors with three Dezervators, accommodating up to four cars per residence on east-side units and three on west-side units.

Bentley Residences uses the same patented lift technology with four Dezervators serving the 61-story development. The system operates at speeds around 800 feet per minute, bringing vehicles directly to sky garages with panoramic ocean and pool views. The technology blends hydraulics and robotics in a vertical shuttle system that eliminates traditional valet services or parking garages. With cars parked steps from the front door, owners avoid the conventional separation between vehicle storage and living spaces that characterizes most residential developments.

The glass-enclosed garage accommodates up to seven vehicles with EV charging points, treating cars as sculptural elements within the living environment rather than utilitarian objects stored separately from daily life. The garage space integrates with the penthouse’s overall aesthetic through consistent materials and lighting systems, creating visual continuity between automotive and residential areas.

The floating staircase serves as functional circulation and sculptural centerpiece, embodying the marriage of engineering precision and aesthetic grace that defines Bentley’s approach to design. Service quarters provide additional functionality for hosting events while maintaining the residence’s primary focus on living rather than working spaces. The state-of-the-art kitchen features Gaggenau appliances throughout, incorporating advanced culinary technology within spaces that prioritize functionality and aesthetics equally.

Subtropical Outdoor Living Solutions

The penthouse addresses challenges of indoor-outdoor living at extreme elevation through engineered solutions that maintain comfortable conditions for outdoor entertaining. The sunset terrace and summer kitchen create functional spaces for al fresco dining despite the 61st-floor location, with wind protection systems that allow residents to use outdoor areas throughout the year.

Private indoor and outdoor pools establish visual and functional connections between interior and exterior environments. The outdoor pool creates relationships with the ocean beyond while providing intimate aquatic experiences that complement rather than compete with the natural seascape. Pool systems incorporate advanced climate control and maintenance technology that operates without disrupting the sensory experience of water and light.

The summer kitchen includes full cooking capabilities designed for Florida’s climate, with materials and appliances selected for performance in humid, salt-air conditions. This outdoor cooking space extends the penthouse’s entertaining capacity while taking advantage of ocean breezes and sunset views that change throughout the day. The terrace design maintains consistent materials and design language with interior spaces, creating transitions between indoor and outdoor living areas.

Resort Infrastructure Within Single Building

The Bentley Residences building includes comprehensive amenities that support the penthouse lifestyle without requiring external services. A wellness center, spa, game room, whisky bar, and cigar lounge provide entertainment options within the building, while the cinema offers private screening capabilities for residents and guests. The pet spa and beauty salon address practical needs that maintain the building’s self-contained environment.

The residents-only restaurant and dining concepts provide quality dining experiences without leaving the property, creating resort-like atmosphere that supports daily living and entertaining. The 2.4-acre beachfront includes landscaped beach club, oceanfront pool deck, and beachfront cabanas that provide direct beach access while maintaining privacy and exclusivity expected at this price point.

These ground-level amenities complement the penthouse’s elevated position by offering variety in recreational and social experiences. The building’s amenity program creates vertical resort living that eliminates needs for external services while maintaining the luxury standards expected in $37.5 million residential properties.

Brand Identity Translation Across Design Disciplines

The collaboration between Bentley Motors and Luxury Living Group extends beyond furniture design to create living spaces that reflect precision and craftsmanship associated with the automotive brand. The penthouse functions as flagship example of how automotive design principles translate into residential architecture while maintaining essential character that defines Bentley across different applications.

Rather than relying on superficial branding elements or logo placement, the design team distilled essential qualities of Bentley’s design philosophy and reinterpreted them for residential architecture. The result creates living environments that embody engineering precision, material quality, and attention to detail that have defined Bentley for generations, while pushing forward into new expressions appropriate to contemporary residential design.

The penthouse demonstrates how brand identity adapts to local context while maintaining core values, creating authentic living environments that function on their own architectural merits independent of their connection to the automotive brand. This approach to brand extension creates residential spaces with genuine design value beyond marketing considerations, establishing standards for how luxury brands can honor heritage while creating functional living environments.

The post Bentley Residences Miami: $37.5M Translation of Automotive Design Language first appeared on Yanko Design.

Shipping container homes have captured the imagination of architects and homeowners alike, offering a sustainable and flexible approach to modern living. These compact dwellings transform industrial steel boxes into stylish, functional spaces that challenge traditional notions of what a home should be. In 2025, designers are pushing boundaries even further, combining smart layouts, clever insulation, and thoughtful finishes to create tiny homes that feel surprisingly spacious and comfortable.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged charm of exposed steel, the efficiency of minimalist interiors, or the appeal of high-end amenities packed into a small footprint, there’s a shipping container home to suit every taste. We have curated a collection of five interesting designs that each bring something unique to the table. From multi-container family dwellings to budget-friendly solo retreats, these homes reveal why container living continues to inspire a new generation of tiny house enthusiasts around the world.

1. Double Duo

The Double Duo tiny house reimagines shipping container living by joining two 40-foot containers side by side. This approach results in a surprisingly spacious 640-square-foot interior, a size that is impressive in the world of tiny homes. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms make this house ideal for a couple, a small family, or those seeking a guest space with all the comforts of a modern home. An open living area creates room for gathering, while the flexible floor plan ensures every inch is put to good use.

The exterior can be left exposed for an industrial look or finished with wood cladding to add warmth and character. Large windows brighten the interior, bringing in plenty of daylight and connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. The Double Duo’s thoughtful layout and generous size make it an inviting option for those seeking container living without the usual compromises on comfort or privacy.

What we like

• Spacious interior with two full bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Flexible exterior finish options for customized curb appeal.

What we dislike

• The larger footprint may require more land and setup.
• The heavier structure can complicate transportation and installation.

2. The Nook

The Nook makes the most of a single 20-foot shipping container, offering a compact 160-square-foot home designed for affordability and simplicity. The black exterior, paired with cedar accents, creates a contemporary look that turns heads. Inside, the layout is efficient, with a sleeping area, kitchenette, and bathroom all within easy reach. Closed-cell foam insulation keeps the interior comfortable year-round, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort in a small space.

Windows and doors are strategically placed to maximize natural light and views, giving the home an airy, open feel despite its size. The Nook is a perfect solution for solo dwellers or couples looking to downsize without sacrificing style. Its budget-friendly approach makes it attainable for those starting their tiny home journey or needing a compact guest suite or office.

What we like

• Affordable, minimal design for budget-conscious buyers.
• Insulated shell offers year-round comfort in any climate.

What we dislike

• Limited living space may feel restrictive for more than two people.
• Compact kitchen and bathroom limit extended stays or hosting.

3. Rising Sun

Rising Sun by UnContained Dreams is a compact shipping container home that makes clever use of its 9.6-foot height and 8-foot width. Despite its smaller footprint, the interior layout is both comfortable and practical. The designers have addressed the challenges of insulation and thermal performance by applying closed-cell spray foam to the ceiling, floor, and walls. This keeps the house cozy in winter and cool in summer, while the addition of multiple windows ensures the space is bright and inviting.

The exterior features metal with wood trim, achieving a functional look that balances utility with a touch of warmth. Doors cut into the container provide easy access and ventilation, and the thoughtful use of space inside allows for all the essentials. Rising Sun offers a practical solution for those who want a simple, well-insulated, and easy-to-maintain home.

What we like

• Superior insulation for year-round comfort.
• Efficient layout maximizes usable space in a compact footprint.

What we dislike

• Slightly smaller than traditional trailer-based tiny homes.
• Limited width can affect interior design and furniture choices.

4. Modern Side Stack

The Modern Side Stack takes shipping container living to new heights with three high-cube, 40-foot containers arranged in a unique side-by-side configuration. This design delivers a generous 900 square feet, creating a sense of openness rarely found in container homes. The house features multiple outdoor spaces, including decks and patios, that expand the living area and invite residents to enjoy the surrounding landscape. Custom touches throughout the interior showcase the versatility of modular design.

This home’s layout includes spacious bedrooms, a well-appointed kitchen, and thoughtfully integrated storage. The large windows and sliding glass doors make the interior feel connected to nature and full of light. Located in rural Texas, the Modern Side Stack demonstrates how container homes can be comfortable, efficient, and stylish, even in remote settings.

What we like

• Expansive floor plan with custom outdoor living zones.
• Modular design allows for creative layouts and personalization.

What we dislike

• Three-container setup can be more costly and complex to build.
• Requires significant site preparation and infrastructure.

5. Delta Model

The Delta Model by Ark Tiny Homes features an attention to comfort and practicality within a single 40-foot container. This highly insulated home boasts premium amenities and a thoughtful layout that avoids the cramped feeling often associated with tiny homes. The kitchen is a highlight, featuring a full gas range, dishwasher, microwave, and a 10-cubic-foot refrigerator, all arranged for maximum efficiency. Ample cabinetry provides excellent storage, making meal prep and daily living a breeze.

A 9,000 BTU air conditioner ensures the home stays cool or warm regardless of the season. The interior is well-lit and inviting, with the living and sleeping areas designed to feel open and accessible. At a price point of $59,500, the Delta Model offers great value for those seeking a quality container home with all the essentials.

What we like

• Full-featured kitchen and extensive storage options.
• Effective climate control for comfort in any weather.

What we dislike

• Larger appliances may reduce available living space.
• The price may be higher than more basic container conversions.

The post Top 5 Shipping Container Tiny Homes To Inspire Your Next Compact Living Move In 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Five Four tiny home by Designer Eco Tiny Homes is a study in compact living where every inch is designed with intention. Its footprint measures just 5.4 meters in length, making it smaller than many city apartments, yet it comfortably accommodates up to four people. The home’s form is simple and understated, featuring a plywood interior that adds warmth and a quiet, textured quality. Large windows and a sliding glass door invite daylight into the main living space, creating a seamless connection between the interior and the outdoors. The result is an atmosphere that feels open and calm despite the home’s minimal dimensions.

The open-plan layout allows the living, dining, and sleeping areas to flow into one another, avoiding the sense of confinement that can sometimes characterize smaller homes. The kitchen is straightforward, equipped with an electric cooktop, sink, and compact fridge. It offers enough workspace for essential tasks while keeping the footprint minimal. There’s a clear focus on utility throughout, with each element serving a purpose and contributing to the overall cohesion of the space.

Designer: Designer Eco Tiny Homes

Sleeping arrangements in the Five Four are flexible. The model is available with or without a loft, offering options for both those who prefer all amenities on a single level and those who want the added separation or storage a loft provides. The loft version can host a sleeping area or simply serve as extra storage, keeping the main floor uncluttered. The main bedroom and living zone merge, allowing the space to adapt to different routines throughout the day, whether lounging, reading, or sleeping.

Storage solutions are thoughtfully integrated. The open areas remain uncluttered thanks to the use of built-in cabinetry and the option for a loft to function as a storage area. The bathroom, tucked discreetly behind a sliding door, is equipped with a modern shower, full-sized vanity, and medicine cabinet. This approach keeps the private zone distinct without sacrificing accessibility. The house’s compactness also brings the advantage of easy maintenance, which is often sought after in minimal living environments.

Mobility is another key feature of the Five Four. Its small size and weight, under 4.5 tons, make it relatively easy to move compared to many other homes. If you’re someone who requires flexibility or may need to relocate, this feature is especially valuable. Off-grid options further underline the home’s adaptability, opening up possibilities for living in more remote or unconventional locations.

The Five Four does not attempt to do everything at once. Instead, it refines the essentials, creating a living space that feels both practical and inviting. The plywood finish, subtle layout, and honest materials echo the clarity and restraint often found in minimal design style. In this home, the focus shifts from excess to experience, and the beauty lies in how each element quietly supports the rhythms of daily life.

The post Ultra-Compact & Light-Filled Tiny Home Is Cleverly Designed For Peak Flexibility & Comfort first appeared on Yanko Design.

In a city where luxury storefronts and urban heat dominate the pedestrian experience, an unexpected structure quietly shifts the atmosphere, both literally and metaphorically. The Climacool Teahouse, a collaboration between architecture firm line+ studio, adidas, and sustainability lab ZERO, emerges as a striking yet serene installation nestled in Chengdu’s Taikoo Li. Temporary in nature but lasting in impact, the teahouse offers a new way to think about architecture’s relationship with climate, material, and culture.

Constructed entirely from bamboo and assembled in just five days, the teahouse is more than a spatial experiment; it’s an environmental gesture. Rooted in the principles of vernacular architecture and adapted through modern techniques, the project proposes a different kind of public space: one that responds to its surroundings with lightness, breathability, and emotional tactility. It’s not built to last forever, but it is built to leave a lasting impression.

Designers: line+ studio

At the heart of the installation is a circular grove of live bamboo, forming the core of the pavilion. These fresh stalks are bent radially inward and fixed between a lightweight ground anchoring system and a digitally fabricated canopy ring above. The effect is immersive: visitors find themselves stepping into a vertical forest, shaded and gently enclosed, while still surrounded by the vibrancy of the city. Hovering above, an LED ring references the movement of air and atmospheric change, subtly illuminating the space and guiding visitors’ visual focus upward.

This design, interestingly, grew from a limitation. The original concept for the pavilion was a suspended, floating structure meant to evoke lightness and air. However, city safety regulations forced a rethinking of the approach, prompting the designers to ground their idea, literally, into something vertical and planted. What resulted is arguably more powerful: a living, growing form that grounds the installation in place, while still playing with notions of suspension and airiness.

The architecture itself is composed of two concentric cylinders: an inner core of living bamboo and an outer shell made of woven bamboo strips that form vertical surfaces, seating, and a subtle interface with the surrounding plaza. The material selection is deeply intentional. Bamboo, a renewable and fast-growing resource, is a nod to both regional craftsmanship and ecological responsibility. It is also the project’s main structural and environmental agent, used not just for aesthetic unity, but for its flexibility, ease of assembly, and climatic performance.

Cooling is an integral part of the design. Integrated misting systems, dry ice, and underfloor fans work together to generate a perceptible level-5 breeze, offering thermal comfort to those within the pavilion and even to passersby in the surrounding plaza. Beneath the central canopy, mist is released downward; around the perimeter, additional nozzles cool the bench zones. Floor-embedded fans create upward air movement, enhancing the effect and mirroring the high-performance qualities of adidas’s Climacool product line, for which the installation was partially conceived.

However, the use of dry ice, while visually dramatic and effective in generating cool air, raises environmental considerations. The release of carbon dioxide may not align with broader sustainability goals, but given the project’s overall low-impact structure and short lifespan, it seems likely the team weighed these factors carefully and minimized their use. The misting and fan systems themselves rely on concealed mechanical and electrical infrastructure, cleverly integrated into the bamboo seating and structure to maintain the installation’s clean, organic aesthetic.

Furniture elements, also made entirely of untreated bamboo, reflect Chengdu’s teahouse culture, grounding the futuristic concept in local tradition. Tables and seating are crafted using traditional methods, and these components extend beyond the installation: after the teahouse’s exhibition period, modular benches will be relocated throughout Chengdu, extending the project’s reach into everyday public spaces. In this way, the pavilion’s life continues long after the bamboo walls are disassembled.

The real brilliance of the Climacool Teahouse lies in its impermanence. Designed to be assembled quickly and taken down just as efficiently, the structure exemplifies the potential of ephemeral architecture to influence how we experience the city. It isn’t a permanent fixture, but a moment of relief, reflection, and reconnection with nature in a highly commercialized setting. It challenges the notion that impactful design must be monumental or enduring; instead, it celebrates architecture as atmosphere, focusing on microclimatic comfort, sensory engagement, and community interaction.

The post Climacool Teahouse in Chengdu Redefines Cool with Bamboo, Mist, and Urban Serenity first appeared on Yanko Design.

Casa Tobi, designed by Espacio 18 Arquitectura, is perched on the rugged coastline of Oaxaca, near Puerto Escondido, as a peaceful retreat for a family of photographers. The home is positioned to capture sweeping western views of the ocean and sunsets, with its structure following the natural slope of the land. The location offers a sense of calm away from city life, allowing the natural environment to play a central role in everyday moments. Each element of the house is designed to frame and highlight the surrounding landscape, bringing the outdoors into the daily experience.

The architectural approach elevates the house above the rocky terrain using concrete supports, which keep the footprint light on the land and preserve the native vegetation underneath. The exposed concrete exterior, combined with wooden and stone accents, gives the building a robust yet welcoming character. This material palette echoes the textures and tones of the coastline, creating a sense of harmony between the built and natural environments. The form of the house is shaped by the needs of the site and the desire to create a lasting, durable home.

Designer: Espacio 18 Arquitectura

Within the home, the spaces are organized to capture the best of the surroundings. Communal areas like the living room, kitchen, and dining space open toward the ocean, drawing in natural light and sea breezes. Large sliding doors and generous windows erase the boundaries between indoors and out, allowing life to spill onto the terraces and shaded patios. The materials inside remain understated, with warm wood and cool stone balancing the concrete’s strength, reflecting the colors and feel of the landscape.

Bedrooms in Casa Tobi are tucked away to ensure privacy, yet each maintains a strong connection to the outdoors. Floor-to-ceiling windows and access to quiet terraces give these rooms a sense of calm, with views that stretch out to the horizon. Bathrooms follow a similar philosophy, combining functionality with moments of openness. Natural ventilation and thoughtful shading help keep the spaces cool, reducing reliance on artificial systems and making the most of coastal breezes.

Utility and function are present throughout the design, from the way the structure responds to the steep slope to its integration with the local climate. Outdoor living areas are protected yet open, providing comfortable spaces for relaxation or gathering. The concrete shell shields the home from the elements while allowing daylight to reach deep inside. Each design choice reflects a careful consideration of both family needs and the qualities of the coastal site.

Casa Tobi is a thoughtful example of architecture engaging with its environment. Its design and materials respond to the landscape, while the interior spaces encourage a connection to the rhythms of the coast. The house offers its residents a true sense of refuge and a unique perspective from which to experience the Oaxacan shoreline. Through its careful integration of function, form, and setting, Casa Tobi becomes a place shaped by its natural context and the lives of those who inhabit it.

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A century-old warehouse on Rotterdam’s Katendrecht peninsula has found new life as the Fenix Museum of Migration, designed by MAD Architects. The transformation of this 1923 structure into a vibrant museum addresses both the city’s multicultural history and today’s need for resilient, energy-conscious buildings. With its double-helix “Tornado” staircase spiraling to a rooftop platform, Fenix is more than an architectural showpiece—it’s a statement about how heritage buildings can adapt to contemporary urban needs.

The Fenix project demonstrates that historic architecture need not remain frozen in time. Instead, layers of history are preserved alongside new interventions, combining exposed concrete and original walls with the luminous, reflective staircase. By retaining much of the warehouse’s industrial character, the design honors the building’s past while introducing elements that support modern life, like new public gathering spaces and efficient infrastructure.

Designer: MAD Architects

Energy efficiency and sustainability are increasingly essential in urban redevelopment, and Fenix responds with thoughtful adaptation. Adaptive reuse avoids the significant emissions and waste generated by demolition and new construction. The museum’s design leverages the existing structure, reducing the project’s ecological footprint while integrating up-to-date systems for lighting, climate, and accessibility. This approach shows how old buildings can be part of a city’s sustainable future. It also features a thermal energy system with a heat pump, as well as a lovely green roof.

MAD Architects’ intervention doesn’t simply layer new atop old; it weaves the story of migration and movement into every visitor’s journey. The Tornado staircase, with its mirrored skin, reflects both the Rotterdam skyline and the people who ascend it, making visitors conscious of their role in the ongoing story of migration. The rooftop platform offers a literal and metaphorical vantage point, connecting past departures to present-day arrivals.

The ground floor, conceived as an indoor city square, brings a sense of openness and connection that’s rare in former industrial sites. Fenix’s inclusion of cafes, bakeries, and community spaces shows that these projects are about more than preserving bricks and mortar—they’re about making places where people want to gather, learn, and interact. In doing so, the museum becomes a civic anchor, inviting Rotterdammers of every background to engage with their city’s layered history.

The transformation of Fenix also brings new opportunities for education and engagement around sustainability. Visitors encounter stories of migration and also learn how thoughtful renovations can reduce environmental impact and extend the lifespan of existing buildings. By showcasing modern systems discreetly woven into the historic fabric, the museum offers a living example of how energy efficiency and heritage preservation can go hand in hand. This approach encourages both architects and the public to see old structures as valuable resources for creative, sustainable city-making.

Fenix’s transformation signals a broader trend in how cities approach their architectural heritage. Instead of viewing aging buildings as obstacles to progress, projects like this show how they can become catalysts for social and environmental renewal. Through careful design, technical upgrades, and public programming, the Fenix Museum of Migration is both a reminder of the journeys that shaped Rotterdam and a model for the ways historic spaces can support thriving, sustainable urban life.

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