Design Inspiration

A-Frame Seaside Retreat

By eula biezen - paraizo disegno

As an interior designer, I begin any project by making an assessment of the space to be designed and decorated. I am always left in complete fascination of the enclosures, that is the 3 dimensional architectural space that is my canvas and that houses the functional art that Interior Design really is.

Successful projects need not be large or have high cost, 

Good design is the single factor that makes a project successful. 

I have selected this project by Bromley Caldary as our design inspiration because of its uncontested beauty. This is no ordinary fisherman's hut, it truly is a jewel by the sea, a retreat that is functional and has a meditative quality that is unassuming, serene, emotional and inspiring.

For this article I have selected the A-Frame structure titled as Rethink, by Bromley Caldary Architects. This project was built in 2013, and is located on the seashores of the Fire islands in the U.S. 

Despite its monumental presence that reminds us of the great Pyramids of Giza, its area is only about 2,346 square feet, the average size of a small house. This is a 3 story, two bedroom and two bath sea-villa overseeing the Atlantic ocean. It is comfortable, peaceful and decorated with simple elements that are planned to be a ocean retreat, not a luxury mansion.

What makes this project successful? 

Paraizo Disegno, dives deeper into the aesthetic and functional attributes of this project titled, Rethink, and here are the 10 reasons why.

1. THE STRUCTURE

This project is successful because it needs nothing else that the structure itself, to stand out. The uncommon use of pyramidal shape itself is sufficient to make it stand apart and attract attention. The plain furnishings here are an added accessory for convenience and comfort. 

Nonetheless, even without them the project is undeniably beautiful.

Residential Project - A-Frame Rethink, Bromley Caldary Architects

2. THE AESTHETICS

Here, minimalist simplicity is the undisputed quality. Even so, the entire residence is beautiful, modern and and all the elements display a cohesive and relaxing atmosphere that is quiet, peaceful and providing all the comforts for modern life. 

The monochromatic colors are subdued, soft and informal. Most of the decor is dominated by light wood, with a deep contrast and emphasis on the structural elements that subtly reminds us of a ship's deck and is realized in a dark metal patina. The interior wood is contrasted by aged driftwood colors in soft grey on the exterior. Defining the areas of house, deck and beach.

Harmony and Unity of design is achieved throughout all three floors yet with a tinge of color throughout. All the design elements are kept simple and informal, yet are very stylish and modern.

At night the space becomes warm and inviting, in clear contrast to the cold Atlantic gusts from the outside.

3.  THE VIEW

What is so strikingly about this project is the breathtaking view of the sea, which is the most dominant feature of all. The front facade offers an expanse of window that offers a full and uninterrupted scene of the oceanscape.

The architects clearly demonstrate their understanding of their craft. Day or night the full expanse of the window gazes out to the ocean and takes the full window as natural photography. 

Sunrise or sunset that completely covers the scene from any of the three floor levels. and one could almost see see the midnight stars draped over the sea.

The ceiling heights of the first floor was increased to two stories, or 20 feet, giving this A-Frame structure a large base where to house the living spaces. 

A stunning and dramatic sunset view and very warm interiors.

At night the interior displays a night light show that almost serves as a beacon of style. Dusk could be nothing other than heavenly, with cool breezes flowing though and a soft glow of the interior's incandescent lights that are kept at subdued intensity.

Mornings could be not anymore glorious. 

The window seating allows one to take in the sea air while enjoying a warm cup of fresh coffee.

3. THE LAYOUT 

A frames are known for the slanting walls and decreasing areas at elevation. The layout places the living room, kitchen, bar and dining in one unified space. All the private quarters are tucked behind this space and on the second floor. For this to be successful, a broad base was needed. 

The winding stairs split in two sections is unobstructive  and recessed to the mid wall and divided to the outer walls, the landing serving as an overhead cover for the kitchen and makes it intimate, while also a platform to the bedroom entry. Finally the third floor, which in ordinary structures would be an attic, here lends itself as a sort of lookout. It is functional, not only for the view, but houses the second bedroom and bath, making maximum use of the top floor. 

The great element, are the window sets, expansive and evenly spaced and placed on every tier. They offer plenty of natural daylight and a connection to the exteriors from all levels.

note how the windows slant inward like is found also on ships, 

and how the structure steel and the seating are of similar materials and color.

 The drama of the view is nothing other than asomatous, 

making us to take a deep breath and taking it all in. 

The large window expanses allow floods of light into the interior space. 

The architects demonstrate their mastery of the craft. The vista is what dominates the space. Seating right at the window wall and close to the pool, the ideal place for a light fare, wine and great late night conversations.

4. THE OPEN CONCEPT 

The open concept is intelligently planned. The winding stairs are displayed as part of the master piece, they blend not as structural and functional elements, but as a stage for the grand entry of the actors onto the scene.

Notice how the stairs break up into two pieces, 

the landing serving as the overhead cover for the kitchen 

and as a platform for the master bedroom, continuing on to the third floor.

The seating area and bone white sofa is placed to the side, 

again the windows are surrounding every angle.  

The real structural elements, which are the supporting beams are barely noticeable and blend in with the wood colors. 

5. FUNCTIONALITY and EFFICIENCY

All the rooms in this residence are relatively small. And the tall structure is not only impressive, but makes it the place look monumental and spacious. The areas are defined only by the furniture pieces that are sectioned off in areas of the ground floor, the seating for conversation and small table by the sea. The kitchen and bar, are larger because they serve multiple function for food preparation and informal dining, as well as a bar. Still it can comfortably seat 4 and even six. 

Another feature found all throughout the residence is built-in storage. that give structural stability and some also work as additional seating. 

  

The windows, as the walls are slanted.

The kitchen small, yet very functional. All the appliances are recessed to the wall to give a clean and seamless look. The oversized bar curves permitting the diners to see each other. It also overlaps the counter space for ease of seating and hosts 4, but can easily allow 6 guests.  

The pantry is not at all invisible, and is hidden behind the kitchen. 

Everything is built-in with drawers for storage and the roof-wall systems on the interior also lends itself to be a shelf space for stemware.

A place suited for entertainment.

6. EMOTIONAL QUALITY

The whole residence, whether it is night or day, dusk or dawn, exudes tranquility and an informal refinement and beach elegance. It is as if this refuge breathes by itself and silently speaks to you. 

The open space on the first floor, almost tells the story of coziness and intimate conversation. The kitchen bar conveys late night entertainment and cocktails. I do not believe anyone would want to retire at night and go to bed. The bedrooms are private and isolated, the bathroom open, light. The upper deck is reminiscent of a modern lookout.

The entire place silently speaks.

Winding metal stairs travel from the first to the second to the third floor.

7. SECLUSION

The private quarters are intimate, restful and the closed in walls and minimal fenestration turn the bedroom and closed areas into a sheltered hideaway.  

In this project, the side windows on the front side maybe large but are are kept to a minimal. The ocean view that dominates and the large picture windows are placed in the front facade, while the side walls are utilized for shade and protection from sun and heat and also partially blocking the side views.

The slanted wall-roof also angles the windows upward giving  view of mostly the sky. This gives the occupant a feeling of isolation since the windows are scars and even then neighboring houses are out of view.  At night the stars are close at hand, and I can only dream what the moonlight would bring. 

Sea-Side Bedroom with an unforgettable view

The scale of everything is small, and give a feeling of coziness and warmth. This abode permeates less light, because there are fewer and smaller windows, but this is exactly what makes it so intimate.

Because in A-Frame structures, the roof is also the side walls, and thus have a double function as protection from the elements, heat and light, and as flow for exterior elements such as wind and precipitation, they have to be strong and sturdy and also thick. 

The exterior conditions of this maritime location make it a must that the walls have to withstand strong breezes, harsh winds and the intense temperatures of hot and cold during the seasons. Thus it also requires strong and thick walls and proper insulation and materials that can survive salt acids. 

8. STYLE

Overall throughout the entire retreat there is a consistent style. 

Uniform color palette, the same wood species is used on all three floors. The style is modern, elegant, minimalist and displays comfort and simplicity.

The pale wood colors are even, light, soothing and make the place serene.

The galvanized metal framing and railings are in deeper dark colors, thus giving it a more natural feel and receding the stairs and making it look more subdued. The darker contrast is also very elegant than if any other colors were selected. 

The bathroom is located on the second floor at the rear side of the residence.

9. LIGHT

The Light-scape was very carefully planned. Natural light seems like a given, if you note the surrounding views, but especially the artificial and night lights was given a lot of thought and planning

Natural light permeates from everywhere and floods into the space during the day. There is privacy in the private quarters, but still enough light 

The nightscape both indoors and out are dramatic. And we can notice the recessed light fixtures are precisely and evenly spaced. The combination of track, recessed and spot lights give out even orange-yellow colors and glow. 

The lumens can increase intensity or dimmed down to a subdued. The pool light is an intense white.

At the opposite continuum of light is shade, and this too is intelligently incorporated, giving shade in the private quarters and the rooms to the rear. 

As there are hardly any trees to be found, the eaves also extend far out to allow shade. 

10. COMFORT

The first key functional element is that the place is open and spacious. Even if you are not there, you just know there is a cool breeze constantly flowing through. And if not, there are fans located where they are needed.

The furniture selection is simple, widely spaced, plain and in mostly soft colors. The pieces are clean-lined, rounded and the selected textiles are of stain resistant materials and leather.

There are pleasing even stripes on the floors and roof-walls and the carpet buffs sound on the second and third floor. 

Soft pastels with tinge of lively colors. Furniture is kept to a minimal.

The overall theme, when indoors gives the notion of being on the deck of a ocean liner. The material elements are light wood and steel frames, and the interior cladding is uniform blending the walls with ceiling. The color palette light and soothing like the sand of the sea. Simple furniture and tapestries, in natural materials of jute, cotton, leather.

This passage way connects the deck to the bedroom and in the middle, is the bathroom.

White was selected for the exterior roof to reflect sunlight. 

In this view we clearly see the window sets and how they are placed to permeate light and and allow privacy in the back rooms.

A distant view of the project reveals its simplicity and unassuming character. It is primarily a seaside retreat that offers isolation and perhaps also time for contemplation or meditation. To me the sound of crashing tides would be the only music I would sway to and the vista of the ocean the only painting on which I would fixate my gaze. 

Notice how the eaves hang far over the walls, to give proper shade to the upper rooms. 

Same for the rear entry doors that are recessed to provide shade.

There is a natural wilderness in the surrounding area and at the rear of this residence, that is complemented by the simple fencing. The vegetation is mostly that of a marshland and because of the salty and moist soil quality, which is also like moving quicksand, the architects have decided on raised piles to give the structure stability, strength and provide durability while protecting the materials from the acids of Potassium nitrate or saltpeter.

A beautiful symmetrical view of the seaside cottage.

A daytime view of the prematurely aged deck. 

Wood ages to grey tones giving a natural transition to the colors of the sand. The pool giving a natural accent color to the scene.

In this view one can also appreciate all three floor levels, 

the living spaces, the private spaces and the upper viewing deck.

All architects know that any project considers and incorporates its surroundings as part of the overall scheme. In this one, the Bromley-Caldary Architects have successfully brought this element to its maximal heights. The 3 story design, the facade and the view it offers, the A-Frame structure that deflects wind forces upwards, cooling the interiors and also the open  space on the interior, that is airy, breezy 

and gives a view that lasts a  lifetime in memory. 

Serenity and solitude describes this project.

The simplicity is completely befitting and despite the informal style, this project is elevated to a status of a masterpiece. This and all of the above criteria are all the reasons, why 

Paraizo Disegno has chosen it to be our design inspiration. 

All about Doors

In the previous blog, we've discussed (in a nutshell) the main considerations when designing the main entry.
In this edition, we shall see the important features of the door itself to make your Front Entry, appealing, attractive and in well-working condition. I shall detail all the ins and outs of material, hardware and maintenance to make it last for a long time and also call to your mind and imagination those attractive features that add value to your home, make guests feel welcome and allot you the style and privacy level that suits your needs and liking.
It is a relatively easy task to select the right door, both for it's beauty, durability and purpose. Once the correct steps are pointed out, any home-owner can become his/her own design consultant and be a better informed patron when making purchases or executing the task. But there are a few steps to take. The primary is that forethought needs to be given to consider the functionality of the door, and not the aesthetics. The looks and appeal of any door, is of secondary importance compared to its daily use.
There are exceptions to every rule, provided that the appropriate function requires it.

Some may argue that a door is mainly to invite guests, I hold the premise that it should entirely suit the needs of the homeowner first and accomodate the less regular users to a comfortable level.
Personality profiling of course would make clear, the occupants needs and inclinations.

Design is a complex field that intertwines many disciplines, this blog is to touch base on the main issues and to give you useful tips for this project.
First of all, the door's function is transition from outside to inside, thus its purpose is to block off elements and define the limits of public and private, in short a psychological and physical boundary. This is easily expressed by contrasting colors, different styles and formality in transition and also accessories in different degrees of subtelty.

Let's now consider the steps toward door choices.

1 - DOOR TYPE
The first consideration about doors, is to make a distinction between Exterior and Interior doors. The make, materials and sturdiness are not of the same category. Exterior doors, need to withstand precipitation, sun and light, abbrassion of particles, temperatures, and the daily wear and tear.
The particular distinctions about doors, are combinations wood/glass - metal/wood - glass/metal. and in solid doors, the relief on it, from raised panels to intricate carvings.

Let us not ignore that a front door is to access your property and residence so safety standards and the locktypes preferred are according to zoning and personal standards. It is also the first impression of you, like the eyes and face, the first thing people notice and make their impressions. If pride of ownership is of any importance to you, the front entry is the place to start to give your home curb appeal and make a striking effect on visitors and passersby, not to mention realtors.

2- SIZE OF ENTRY WAY
Is a double or single entry desired? Not only the length but a sizeable area surrounding the immediate entry, inside and outside for safe and comfortable entry and exit and give the possibility for single or double doors either with or without side panels. All these should tie-in with the overall architectural dimensions of the complete structure. One can see in commercial projects how a greater space is required for trafficflow. Although in residential spaces there would not be the same volume of traffic, the immediately adjacent space does serve for the functionality of reception: like nooks and closets, coat- and maybe shoe-racks, umbrella, key-hides, letter mailers, storage and sometimes a chair for brief visitors or putting on or taking of shoes.
The doormate and the dustwiper is mostly found outdoors and rugs a less conspicuous one, serving as a welcome item that psychologically makes the transition from outdoors to indoors.

3- ENTRY AESTHETICS
Now we are ready to consider the beauty and personality of the entryway. Because it is so important that the design reflect the character of the occupants while at the same time blend in with the architecture of the residence, here is where aesthetic appeal becomes the focus of the design. Commence with the easy questions, Do you want a warm look with wood, or do you prefer a modern design with contemporary colors?  Would you like a themed entry that reflects you, travel a favorite place, or lasting memories.
We shall come back to aesthetics, when all the other considerations are discussed. Start with a list of likes and dislikes in color, bold or soft; in style, either modern or traditional. Do you like to attract attention? Like unusual things? Do you enjoy many small items of interest or a clean look? How friendly and considerate are you willing to be towards visitors? And,.. write these down.

4- MATERIAL SELECTION.
Is it preferable that the entryway have an open or closed view? Materials such as accrylic and glass provide an open view or partially blocked view, whereas, wood and metal do not, and give complete privacy by entirely blocking the entry view and sealing off temperature. Blocked views also give the psychological sense of safety and seclusion.
For those designs that include foyers, vestibules and veranda's, complete blocking of view may not not be essential and even a display view desireable. Additionally we must consider the look and finish of the material surface. It may not be necessary for the door to be mahogany wood, if it will be covered with bright yellow high gloss paint. Thus before selecting an expensive door, decide first if color is desired or the exposed natural character of the prime material. Durability: It is important to select a door that is made of sturdy durable materials that will stand the test of time.

Another note on materials is this. Wood communicates warmth and a natural feel, while glass gives a more modern and colder, thus more distant, feel. Metal, sends vibes of strength, stability and security, many times of light weight, but of course are temperature conductors. If polished, shiny surfaces of high luster send out a subtly message of delicate sophistication. While matte or opaque of closeness and friendliness.

5- FINISHING
In terms of finishings, the possibilities are quite varied. In color, they are limitless, but this factor is weighed in last. The color scheme harmonizes into to the existing design plan. When selecting strikingly contrasting color it is to emphasize the focal point, either the isolated door or the foyer. Finishes otherwise are to beautify and protect the natural material for durablity and ease of maintenance by reducing moisture, stains or damage or other factors of the elements. The exception to this rule are woodstains, that fulfill both of these functions, while maintaining a partially exposure of wood by covering the original color, but allowing the woodgrains to show. This technique offers flexibility when colorscheme is a predominant consideration but the warm texture of wood is desired.
One more note about finishings, Today there are beautiful metal paints, that can add allure to any door or doorframe.

In the case of glass, the finishings would be mostly films applied to the panels for safety to prevent shattered glass in case of accidents. In fact, these are required by law and incorporated in manufacturing and building codes. Another often overlooked possibility is colored glass and mirrors, also etched glass, frosted and patterned glass, that allow clear or color, partial or complete lightflooding while retaining some degree of privacy.
Choices for finishings are: highgloss, semi-gloss, sateen, eggshell and matte. For the type of covering: paint, lacquer, shellac, varnish, wax, and drying oils, with varying degrees of hardness and sheen on the finished surface for durability and ease of maintenance.

5- SAFETY & SECURITY.
Safety is accident prevention, while security calls into mind prevention of losses. Two things come into play here. First the crime rate in the zoning of your home and the valuables that need all time protection.
Consider good locks and bolts not only for your main entry, but for all exterior doors and windows. Here there is space to discuss only the locks and bolts for doors. New technologies that are popular nowadays are the keycode, since it needs no key, access can be granted over the phone, plus it can be easily changed when there's a breach of security, always retrievable if lost. Another is thumbprint a flipside is that any computerized mechanism are made with sensitive electronics. Although factory tested, it is a nuinsance not to have entry, even if once. Most modern locks have a dual system for access. If you are more comfortable with key, then only style is a consideration. About the makes, do not be intimidated by prices, the sturdier the material, the more expensive it tends to be. The cheaper, the more breakable, even for metal.

6-SAFETY
Accidents are always unintended, their prevention can be planned. With the door itself, whether glass, metal or wood. Make sure the hinges are sturdy and especially for families with small children, doorswings that hold off finger crushing closes. Clear glass panels are a delight to look at, to prevent collision and place some decorative decals to announce approximation.

7-FRAMES
Door frames in various widths and style can add character in the overall theme, and not always need to match the door color. The thinner, the more sophisticate and delicate, the thicker the more masculine and rustic. The best examples are greek pediments, but there are many different motifs and styles: romanesque keystones, corner embellishments, patterns and thickness. This is where a themed entryway becomes the easiest way to add visual interest, when there is otherwise a limited budget. 

8- DOORSTYLES
In terms of doorstyles, right choices are limited to two or three that qualify for Front Entrance. Excluded from this category are Dutch-doors. (no offense intended to my Dutch countrymen) For entrydoors triple or even quadruple doors are very appealing, making the front entry inviting. Most of the time, side panels allow at least partial view and fill light into the room. Single or double; swingdoors, sliding doors, French and Palladio style are all ok.

9- DOOR ORIENTATION.
Is there enough room for the door to swing in, out or sideways? Do you prefer for the door to open to the left or to the right? Front entry doors usually have marked frames designed for safety and restrict the door from opening to the opposite side. Naturally the hinges go on the opposite side and placement of other surrounding items are dependent of this simple matter. Note if home occupants are left- or right handed.

10-AESTHETIC APPEAL
Did you notice that some houses stand out from a distance? Can people easily find your house when directed? This is called Curb appeal, something realtor have known for a long time. You can achieve this by being bold in making an entry statement to your home, selecting a dazzling door, adding striking color, light effects, accessorize and give your main entry a stylish and a complete and finished look. More then getting the attention of the neighborhood, you are enhancing your home and increasing its value. 

11-CONVENIENCE ITEMS
Did you notice that the hardware is designed to enhance the appearance of the door. You may also want to decide in advance if you want a doorknocker, peepholes, mailslot, and openings or storage boxes for bulkier packages, doorbells, communication devices, signs and dogwarnings.

12-NIGHTLIGHTS
One more category is lighting. A overhanging general light, or ambiance light, the main features that need to be noticed at night, steps and changes in level and obstructions. Inevitably indoor light will bleed out to exterior, and enhance the view. Outdoor light aside from the entryway are to illuminate the core features, the pathway and vegetation.

13-ORNAMENTATION
Decorative items may be reduced when incorporated in embellishements in the architectural features themselves, such as the sidepanels, the frames, pediments and overhang. Or added as separate items,,to the outdoor or indoor space immediately adjacent to the main entry. Items such as pedestals, urns, plants and planters, flowering shrubs, sculptures and sentinels, statues or statuettes, message signs, mirrors, spheres. a focal item for added interest. Ornamentation is the main method of personalization, may be themed or abstract. can be clustered if smaller items, or may be one large scale item.

One last note, the beauty of the indoors, is extended and matched to the outdoor space. Entry way is the focal point of this transition, but a balanced interior / exterior in decor and weight are always desired.
Please log on to our next blog for expert tips, valuable advice and key points detailing design principles to make your home a success, and a Paradize.

Is your home a Paradise?

A lot of people go through the motions of the day without really having a sense of their home really being the place that they truly enjoy, that is functionally to their entire satisfaction and pleasing in style, color and furniture selection.

Yes, many people can buy nice furniture pieces and place them together in a room, but design goes a lot further than that. Design really considers the life-style of the occupant, which items best reflect or display his or her personality, Privacy considerations; traffic patterns; space and scale. Not just a monotonous joining of things but selection of choice conversation pieces, a focal point in the room and the ease that the eye glides over the room; color schemes that are warm, dramatic, peaceful or allow them to psychologically feel an inner sense of balance and harmony reflected in the space they use every day.

The problem is often that many people are afraid of designers or to ask a design firm for advice for fear of costs. But a good and competent designer will always achieve highest quality design within the client's budget, no matter how large or small this might be. Besides this, the result of any cost should be considered as a long term investment into one's own home and the budgetsize is always in the hands of the client, not the designer. The designer will simply recommend and provide estimates of a range of cost considerations, and the home owner is in charge of how much he or she is willing to spend in the project

Well planned designs give returns to the homeowner that far exceeds whatever cost they may decide on.
Not only resulting in impressive and well planned rooms that are functional, with good material and aesthetically pleasing for the occupants, but serve as a stage when entertaining guests for leisure but especially in business settings. Have you even been to a restaurant where the food is great, but the place was bland and without character?
If your home is precious place to you and you intend to spend at the very least the comming 10 or 15 years in it, should you also consider all the benefits of having a formidable place to spend time in?