Overlooking the lovely coastline of Vagator, Goa, sits something India has never seen before. Architecture Discipline’s Timber Residence breaks new ground as the country’s first mass timber home, proving that environmental responsibility and stunning design can work hand in hand. Architect Akshat Bhatt wanted to create more than just another luxury residence. The 8,650 square foot structure challenges everything we think we know about Indian construction.

The secret lies in eleven glulam portal frames, each one carefully crafted in New Delhi before making the journey to Goa. These aren’t your typical building materials. Glued laminated timber represents a completely different construction approach, where pieces get stronger when combined rather than weakened. The entire house operates like sophisticated building blocks that can actually be taken apart and moved elsewhere decades from now.

Designer: Architecture Discipline

From the outside, charred-wood cladding gives the home its stunning weathered appearance while protecting it from monsoon rains and coastal salt air. The linear design captures sweeping views of both the Arabian Sea and Chapora River, turning the house into a front-row seat for nature’s daily show. Inside, exposed timber beams steal the spotlight, their raw authenticity warming rooms finished with black granite floors and deliberately bare white walls.

The lower level houses something special: a glass-enclosed wood workshop bathed in natural light from clerestory windows above. This creative space opens onto a timber deck that feels more like an outdoor room than a traditional balcony. Instead of walls or railings, planters define the deck’s edges, keeping the connection to the surrounding landscape completely uninterrupted. The workshop becomes a bridge between indoor creativity and outdoor inspiration.

Building on a cliff in Goa means preparing for nature’s worst moods. Bhatt worked with engineers to ensure the structure could handle fifty years of typhoons and torrential rains without flinching. The glulam construction method does something remarkable: it removes carbon from the atmosphere during production. While concrete construction takes from the environment, this timber approach gives back, making each beam part of the solution rather than the problem.

International architecture publications have taken notice, recognizing this project as a catalyst for change across India’s building industry. The residence is proof that sustainable construction doesn’t mean compromising on quality or beauty. With India’s population demanding smarter housing solutions, this Goa home shows a path forward where environmental consciousness and architectural excellence aren’t just compatible but essential partners in creating the future of responsible design.

FAQs

1. What makes the Timber Residence unique in India?

This home is a real first for India, it’s the country’s debut mass timber house, built using glulam frames instead of the usual concrete or steel. What sets it apart is how it was designed: almost like a giant set of building blocks that can be taken apart and moved if needed. The focus on sustainability, adaptability, and a much lighter environmental footprint makes it a standout in Indian residential architecture.

2. Why use glulam (glued laminated timber) instead of concrete or steel?

Glulam is a bit of a game-changer. It’s incredibly strong, but much lighter than concrete or steel, and it can be prefabricated, which means less mess and faster building on site. The real bonus is that timber stores carbon, so using glulam helps the environment rather than hurting it. You get all the strength you need for a modern home, but with a much smaller carbon footprint.

3. How does the Timber Residence handle Goa’s harsh coastal weather?

Goa’s weather can be tough, think heavy rains, salty air, and the occasional typhoon. The Timber Residence was built with all that in mind. Its charred-wood exterior helps protect it from moisture and decay, and the engineered timber frames are made to last. Every detail, from the materials to the structure itself, was chosen to make sure the house stays comfortable and resilient, no matter what the weather throws at it.

The post India’s First Mass Timber Home In Goa Raises The Bar For Sustainable Living first appeared on Yanko Design.

Entering a sauna after a long day feels like pure luxury. Now imagine having that experience alongside a traditional hammam and refreshing plunge bath, all within the same sleek system. That’s exactly what Italian wellness company Effe created with their new Petra SH, which made its debut at Milan Design Week 2025. Designer Marco Williams Fagioli became fascinated by the rituals surrounding thermal wellness while developing this system. He discovered that traditional hammams required bathers to bow when entering through deliberately low doorways as a sign of respect.

These cultural nuances shaped his approach, ensuring the Petra SH honors the authentic spirit of these ancient practices while fitting seamlessly into modern homes. The flexibility of this modular design is its USP. Whether you’re planning a compact home retreat or designing a hotel spa, the system adapts to your space. You can choose between clear glass panels for an open, airy feel or opt for opaque surfaces when privacy matters more. This versatility makes it work just as well in a city apartment as it does in a sprawling country estate.

Designer: Effe

The entire system uses eco-friendly, recyclable materials that align with today’s environmental consciousness. The sauna interior features Swiss pine cladding, chosen for its natural anti-bacterial properties and distinctive alpine fragrance. This hardy wood withstands temperature extremes and also creates that authentic forest-like atmosphere that makes sauna sessions so restorative. Having the plunge bath integrated directly into the system changes everything. Instead of needing a separate setup for cold therapy, you get the complete thermal contrast experience in one beautifully designed unit.

This proves useful in urban settings where space comes at a premium, yet people still crave comprehensive wellness experiences. Effe has spent nearly four decades perfecting wellness design, and that expertise shows in every detail of the Petra SH. The company understands that great wellness design goes beyond just functionality—it needs to create an experience that transports you from everyday stress into a state of genuine relaxation.

The timing is exceptional. Home wellness has exploded in popularity, with people investing in creating sanctuary spaces within their walls. The Petra SH addresses this desire while solving the common problem of needing multiple systems for different types of heat therapy. Instead of choosing between a sauna and a steam room, you get both, plus the cold plunge that completes the traditional Nordic wellness cycle.

I admire how this system brings together wellness traditions from different cultures—Finnish sauna culture, Turkish hammam rituals, and cold therapy practices—into one cohesive experience. It’s not just about having multiple options; it’s about creating a journey that honors the deep cultural significance of these practices while making them accessible for modern life.

FAQs

1. What is a modular spa system, and how does it work?

A modular spa system is all about flexibility and personalization. Instead of being locked into a single setup, you get a series of components—like a sauna, hammam, and cold plunge—that can be mixed and matched to fit your space and your needs. With something like Petra SH, you can create a wellness retreat that works just as well in a city apartment as it does in a larger home. The modules are designed to fit together seamlessly, so you can choose the features and finishes that suit your style, and even reconfigure or expand the setup later on if your needs change.

2. What are the health benefits of combining sauna, hammam, and cold plunge?

Bringing together sauna, hammam, and cold plunge therapies gives you the best of all worlds. The heat from the sauna and steam room helps relax your muscles, encourages deep sweating, and gets your blood flowing. When you follow that with a cold plunge, it wakes up your senses, reduces inflammation, and can even help your body recover after a workout. Switching between hot and cold is a time-tested way to boost circulation, ease stress, and support your immune system. Many people find this routine leaves them feeling both deeply relaxed and re-energized.

3. What makes Petra SH different from other home wellness systems?

Petra SH sets itself apart by blending authentic wellness traditions with modern design. It’s inspired by the rituals of Turkish hammams and Finnish saunas, so you get thoughtful details—like the low doorway and the use of Swiss pine—that honor those roots. But it’s also incredibly versatile: you can have a sauna, steam room, and cold plunge all in one system, tailored to fit your space. Sustainability is built in, with eco-friendly materials throughout. The result is a wellness experience that feels both timeless and perfectly suited to contemporary living.

The post Modular Sauna Brings Hammam and Sauna Rituals Home: Modern Design, No Extra Space Needed first appeared on Yanko Design.

Walk into a warehouse in Bangalore’s Turahalli Forest and you might expect the usual: concrete, echoing emptiness, and the faint smell of dust. What you get instead is a journey – one that Megha Dugar Jain crafted for her client, THE ROOOM, completely redefining what a 2,500-square-foot godown can be. Sometimes, the most extraordinary transformations happen in the most ordinary places. The original space was as unremarkable as they come, but Megha’s vision turns it into a series of moments, each more surprising than the last, with every inch designed to invite curiosity and spark delight.

This is interior design as storytelling. Megha doesn’t just lay down materials or pick colors off a swatch book. She orchestrates visual microcosms, letting each zone unfold in its own unique way. The result is a kind of spatial patchwork where your eyes group elements together, building mini-worlds out of color, texture, and form. The lack of traditional walls isn’t a limitation; it’s an invitation to explore, to let boundaries blur and new relationships emerge between spaces.

Designer: Megha Dugar Jain

Mr. Folds is the silent protagonist here. Not a person, but an idea: the spirit of transformation itself. Megha talks about him like an old friend, a metaphor for the magic that happens when the ordinary is folded – sometimes literally, sometimes just in spirit – into something layered and unexpected. Think of Mr. Folds as the gentle mischief behind every crease in the design, the reason a simple panel suddenly suggests complexity, and why every corner seems to have a little more to say than you first notice. Scroll down and you may just spot Mr. Folds casually browsing around the space.

Walking into the main area, visitors immediately notice the dramatic shift from the soft peach monochrome of the entrance to a bold black-and-white interplay that defines different functional zones. The reception area features a striking curved counter with a crisp white top sitting atop a terracotta jaali base, its geometric patterns allowing light and air to flow through while creating intricate shadows across the floor. Above this, a flowing metal arch structure partially divides the space without closing it off completely. These arches serve multiple purposes: they guide movement, frame views into adjacent areas, and add a sculptural element that draws the eye upward. Megha has cleverly used these architectural features to suggest boundaries rather than enforce them. The arch motif repeats throughout the space, creating a visual rhythm that helps tie disparate elements together. Each arch feels like a portal, inviting visitors to step through and discover what lies beyond, while the curved forms soften what could otherwise be a boxy, rigid environment.

Perhaps the most playful elements in the space are what I call the “orange splooshes,” those organic, fluid shapes that break up the geometric precision of the checkered floor. These vibrant orange forms appear to spill out from the staircase, defying the grid and introducing an element of surprise and whimsy. The stairs themselves continue this orange theme, creating a bold visual statement that draws you upward. You’ll even see a strange ‘sploosh’ underneath the leg of a table. What makes these elements so effective is their unexpectedness; in a space defined by careful planning and intentional design moves, these fluid shapes feel almost rebellious, as if the orange paint had a mind of its own and decided to ignore the boundaries. Megha describes this as “an optical illusion of spillage, an artful disruption that intrigued and delighted.” And she’s right. These moments of controlled chaos provide relief from the more structured elements, reminding us that the best designs often include an element of playfulness. The orange forms also serve as wayfinding devices, subtly guiding visitors through the space without resorting to obvious signage.

The origami inspiration takes physical form in the sit-out area, where an extraordinary plywood panel transforms a simple wall into a sculptural masterpiece. This isn’t delicate paper folding; it’s origami principles applied to a rigid material, creating dramatic angles and planes that catch light and cast ever-changing shadows throughout the day. The technical achievement here shouldn’t be underestimated. Coaxing plywood, a material that naturally resists bending, into these complex folds requires both engineering knowledge and artistic vision. The result is a feature that feels simultaneously architectural and artistic. As natural light moves across its surface, the panel comes alive, revealing new dimensions and details. Visitors often find themselves touching these surfaces, trying to understand how something so solid can appear so dynamic. The panel serves as a focal point in the sit-out area, which itself opens to views of the surrounding Turahalli Forest, creating a dialogue between the geometric precision inside and the organic forms of nature outside.

Complementing these architectural elements are the custom-crafted berge decorative panels that adorn various walls throughout the space. These panels feature intricate, flowing patterns carved into the plywood, celebrating the natural grain and texture of the wood while adding another layer of visual complexity. Unlike the folded panels, which create dimension through physical manipulation of the material, these berge panels achieve depth through intricate surface patterning. The wavy, organic forms feel almost like topographic maps or flowing water, introducing a natural element that balances the more geometric aspects of the design. What makes these panels particularly impressive is how Megha transforms a humble material like plywood into something that looks precious and handcrafted.

What ultimately makes this transformation so successful is Megha Dugar Jain’s unique approach to spatial division. Instead of erecting walls to separate functions, she’s used color, material, and thematic elements to create distinct zones that still feel connected to the whole. The active, human-centric areas burst with vibrant hues and dynamic forms, while display zones adopt a more restrained palette that puts the focus on the products themselves. This strategy creates a space that feels both cohesive and varied, allowing for different experiences within a single open environment. The transitions between zones feel natural rather than abrupt, guided by subtle shifts in flooring, lighting, and material. And while each area has its own character, recurring elements like the curved forms, organic patterns, and thoughtful material selections create a visual language that unifies the entire project. The space works because it balances structure with spontaneity, allowing for moments of surprise within an overall framework that makes sense. It’s like a well-composed piece of music, with themes that repeat and evolve throughout, creating something that feels both familiar and fresh with each encounter.

The post Instead of walls, this interior designer divided a Warehouse Space using colours and shapes first appeared on Yanko Design.

After decades of false starts, Italy’s wild dream of connecting Sicily to the mainland is finally happening. The government just gave WeBuild the green light to build what will become the world’s longest suspension bridge, stretching an incredible 3.6 kilometers across the Strait of Messina. Pietro Salini, WeBuild’s CEO, seems genuinely excited about this one, calling it a project his team will be proud of. At €13.5 billion, this isn’t just another bridge—it’s Italy betting big on infrastructure that could change everything for Sicily. The target completion date of 2032 feels both ambitious and realistic given the scale of what they’re attempting.

The engineering specs alone are jaw-dropping. Picture two towers shooting 399 meters into the sky—that’s roughly the same height as the Empire State Building, except these will be rising from the waters between Sicily and Calabria. The main span will hang 3.3 kilometers above the strait, dwarfing every other suspension bridge on Earth. What makes this particularly clever is how WeBuild designed it to handle earthquakes, which is crucial in this seismically active region. They point out that suspension bridges perform better during earthquakes than other bridge types, citing successful examples in California, Turkey, and Japan.

Designer: WeBuild

The bridge won’t just carry cars; it’s designed as a complete transportation solution. Six lanes of traffic flow in both directions, with room for up to 6,000 vehicles per hour. Two railway tracks will handle 200 trains daily, finally giving Sicily a direct rail connection to mainland Europe. Those currently enduring the ferry ride from Messina to Reggio Calabria will soon cruise across in minutes instead of waiting in long queues. The design includes service lanes for maintenance crews, showing they’ve thought through the long-term operational needs.

This project represents far more than bridge construction. Over 100,000 people will work on various aspects, from the bridge itself to new roads, train stations, and commercial developments. The investment extends to environmental restoration, tackling coastal erosion and rehabilitating old quarries. Italy secured complete public funding, already budgeted through 2025, which removes the financial uncertainty that killed previous attempts. About 40% goes to actual construction, while the rest builds the supporting infrastructure Sicily needs to maximize the bridge’s benefits.

The history here tells quite a story. Italy first approved this bridge back in 1971, then cancelled it multiple times as political winds shifted and costs spiraled. Each iteration brought refinements, and the current design benefits from five decades of technological advancement and lessons learned from other mega-projects. WeBuild brings serious credentials to the table, with experience on complex infrastructure projects worldwide. The company clearly understands the technical challenges of building in a marine environment while managing seismic risks.

When completed, this bridge transforms Sicily from an island requiring ferry access into an integral part of continental Europe. The economic implications extend far beyond tourism and convenience—Sicily gains direct access to European supply chains and markets. For Italy, this represents a showcase of engineering excellence that puts the country at the forefront of ambitious infrastructure development. The bridge shows us that some dreams, even those delayed for decades, eventually find their moment to become reality.

The post The World’s Longest Suspension Bridge Rises in Italy, Connecting Sicily to the Mainland first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post Kohler Saunas can transform your home into a personal, wellness spa first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post This Tiny Cabin Is Designed For Sustainable & Serene Living Amid Romania’s Forested Hills first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post Spacious Single-Level Tiny House With A Porch Offers Elevated Modern Comfort & Minimalist Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post LEGO Artist builds stunning 150,000-piece replica of reagan national airport first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

Source: New Material Research Laboratory

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.

Source: New Material Research Laboratory

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.

Source: New Material Research Laboratory

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.

Source: New Material Research Laboratory

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.

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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.

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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.