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The House With The Breathing Wall

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Defining Spaces, Blurring Boundaries

Text: Maria John   Photos: Various Sources

The breathing wall house is a prototype of a narrow plot, uncommon in Kerala, with an extensive long space that can be closed off into smaller, private pockets. The Breathing Wall residence, moreover, has a central atrium on the ground floor with balconies, attached to first floor bedrooms, overlooking it. This is remarkable as an evolution of the traditional nalukettu space into a green courtyard that blurs the boundaries between the external and inner spaces.

fwd life The House With The Breathing Wall (1)

Earlier, we had rigidly defined internal and external spaces, and the in-between spaces like verandas, with clear boundaries that created compartments and ensured privacy. When you look at layouts being churned out by the younger generations of architects in Kerala, you see a large sense of openness. People are opening up, and that is reflected in the designs – kitchens have an open layout, bedrooms are opening up…there is a blurring of boundaries.

Project Brief:

  1. Architect: LIJO.RENY.architects, Thrissur
  2. Location: Thrissur
  3. Site Area: 1819 sq ft
  4. Total Built Up Area: 2200 sq ft
  5. Year of Completion: 2015
  6. Interiors: LIJO.RENY.architects
  7. Landscape: LIJO.RENY.architects
  8. Structural Consultants: Romsey, Keystone Engineers
  9. Photographs from: Praveen Mohandas

fwd life The House With The Breathing Wall (3)

The Team:

Founded in the year 2005, LIJO.RENY.architects is a multiple award winning design studio based in Thrissur, Kerala, by Lijo Jos and Reny Lijo. The works that come out of their small studio have been instrumental in influencing the way architecture is practiced and viewed in the state. Apart from their consistent experimentation with architecture, they are also responsible for several site/space specific art installations. It’s their love for art that keeps them inspired and charged to introduce interesting contemporary sensibilities in the architecture they practice. They have won numerous awards for the Breathing Wall Residence, including Monsoon Architecture Award – 2017 WINNER (Excellence in Architecture of the Monsoon Region) and IIA State Award – GOLD LEAF for Excellence in Architecture (Residences) (2015). They were also one of AD50 – The 50 most influential Architects and Interior Designers (2017). Connect with them at www.lijorenyarchitects.com.

Digital Version: https://goo.gl/Bs9vlq

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Architecture

5 Sustainable Interior Design Trends to Embrace in 2024

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As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, it’s no surprise that eco-friendly practices are making their way into the realm of interior design. In 2024, we can expect to see a surge in sustainable interior design trends that not only enhance the beauty of our living spaces but also minimise our environmental footprint. From repurposed materials to energy-efficient solutions, here are five sustainable interior design trends to embrace this year.

Upcycled Furniture:

One of the most prominent sustainable interior design trends of 2024 is the use of upcycled furniture. Instead of buying new pieces, consider giving old furniture a new lease on life by refurbishing or repurposing them. From reclaimed wood tables to refurbished chairs, upcycled furniture adds character and charm to your space while reducing waste and conserving resources.

Biophilic Design:

Biophilic design, which emphasizes a connection to nature, continues to gain popularity in 2024. Integrating natural elements such as plants, natural light, and organic materials into your interior design not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes well-being and sustainability. Consider incorporating living walls, indoor gardens, and sustainable wood finishes to bring the outdoors inside and create a healthier living environment.

Energy-Efficient Lighting:

With a growing focus on energy conservation, energy-efficient lighting solutions are becoming a staple in sustainable interior design. LED lights, in particular, consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer, reducing both energy consumption and maintenance costs. Additionally, consider incorporating natural light sources such as skylights and large windows to maximize daylight and minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainable Textiles:

When it comes to upholstery and soft furnishings, opting for sustainable textiles is key to reducing environmental impact. Look for fabrics made from organic or recycled materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, or recycled polyester. These materials not only reduce the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides but also minimize waste and support eco-friendly production practices. Additionally, consider investing in durable, high-quality textiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Smart Home Technology:

In 2024, smart home technology continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions for sustainable living. From smart thermostats that optimize energy usage to home automation systems that control lighting and appliances, these technologies can help reduce energy consumption and increase efficiency in your home. Additionally, smart home devices such as occupancy sensors and smart meters provide valuable insights into your energy usage, empowering you to make informed decisions about resource management and conservation.

As we strive to create more sustainable living environments, embracing these five interior design trends can help reduce our environmental impact while creating beautiful and functional spaces. Whether you’re upcycling old furniture, incorporating natural elements, or investing in energy-efficient technologies, every sustainable choice contributes to a greener future for generations to come. So let’s embrace these trends and make sustainability a cornerstone of our interior design practices in 2024 and beyond.

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Architecture

Designing a Functional Home Office: Tips for Productivity and Comfort

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In today’s ever-evolving work landscape, the home office has become an essential sanctuary for productivity and creativity. Whether you’re a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur, designing a functional home office is paramount for maintaining focus, maximizing efficiency, and enhancing overall well-being. Here are some expert tips to help you create a workspace that promotes productivity and comfort:

Choose the Right Location

 Select a quiet and well-lit area in your home that is conducive to work. Ideally, this space should be away from distractions like heavy foot traffic or noise from common areas.

Invest in Ergonomic Furniture

 Your office chair and desk are vital components of your workspace. Invest in ergonomic furniture that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of discomfort or injury during long hours of work.

Prioritize Natural Light

 Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light. Natural light not only enhances mood and energy levels but also reduces eye strain and fatigue.

Declutter Regularly

Keep your workspace clutter-free by organizing cables, files, and supplies. A clean and organized environment fosters clarity of mind and helps minimize distractions.

Personalize Your Space

 Incorporate elements that inspire and motivate you, such as artwork, plants, or motivational quotes. Personalizing your space can boost creativity and make your home office feel more inviting.

Optimize Technology Setup

 Ensure that your technology setup including your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse is optimized for efficiency and comfort. Consider investing in accessories like an adjustable monitor stand or a wireless keyboard and mouse for added flexibility.

Incorporate Greenery

 Introduce plants into your home office to improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your space. Plants not only enhance aesthetics but also have been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity.

Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Minimize distractions by setting boundaries with family members or roommates and establishing specific work hours. Consider using noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine to block out unwanted sounds.

By implementing these tips, you can design a home office that promotes productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember that every individual’s needs and preferences are unique, so feel free to experiment and adjust your workspace to suit your specific requirements. With a well-designed home office, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your tasks with focus, efficiency, and comfort.

 

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A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Colors for Your Home Interior

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Your home is your sanctuary, and choosing the right colors for its interior can significantly impact the atmosphere and ambiance of each room. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat, a vibrant living space, or a serene oasis, selecting the perfect color palette is key. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of choosing the right colors for your home interior to reflect your personal style and create a harmonious living environment.

Consider the Mood You Want to Create:

The first step in choosing the right colors for your home interior is to consider the mood or atmosphere you want to evoke in each room. Do you prefer a calming and serene space, or are you looking for something more vibrant and energizing? Think about how you want to feel when you’re in each room and choose colors that align with those emotions.

Take Lighting into Account:

Lighting plays a crucial role in how colors appear in a room. Natural light can enhance certain hues while making others appear dull. Consider the direction and intensity of natural light in each room when choosing paint colors. Rooms with ample natural light can handle bold and vibrant colors, while those with less light may benefit from softer, lighter shades.

Create a Cohesive Color Scheme:

To ensure a cohesive flow throughout your home, choose a consistent color scheme that ties all the rooms together. You can achieve this by selecting a few key colors and using them in different combinations throughout the house. Neutral colors like whites, grays, and beiges make excellent base tones, while accent colors can add pops of personality and interest.

Explore Color Psychology:

Color psychology can help you understand how different colors can affect mood and behavior. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms and bathrooms. Yellow, on the other hand, can evoke feelings of happiness and energy, making it ideal for kitchens and living areas. Consider the psychological effects of each color when making your choices.

Test Paint Samples:

Before committing to a color for your walls, it’s essential to test paint samples in the actual space. Paint a small section of the wall with your chosen colors and observe how they look throughout the day in different lighting conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re happy with the final result.

Don’t Forget About Accents and Accessories:

In addition to wall colors, consider how accent pieces and accessories can complement your chosen color scheme. Throw pillows, rugs, curtains, artwork, and furniture upholstery can all add depth and dimension to your space while tying the room together visually.

Choosing the right colors for your home interior is a personal and creative process that can transform your living space into a place you love to call home. By considering the mood you want to create, taking lighting into account, creating a cohesive color scheme, exploring color psychology, testing paint samples, and incorporating accents and accessories, you can design a home that reflects your unique style and personality. So, let your creativity flow, and enjoy the process of bringing your vision to life!

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