
Warkentin Associates Evokes 90s Coffee Culture in LA Cafe Design
Warkentin Associates designed NOUN, a Los Angeles cafe and lounge, to echo the relaxed ambiance of 1990s coffee shops. The space, located in Marina del Rey, offers espresso-based drinks in the mornings and natural wines in the evenings. It features diverse seating zones, including vintage furniture and unique design elements, aiming to create a comfortable environment for work, meetings, and socializing. The cafe also implements innovative bottled espresso to reduce waste and ensure consistent beverage quality.

Aarhus Tattoo Parlour Transformed into a Spiritual Journey by Kidz Studio
Kidz Studio has designed a tattoo parlour in Aarhus, Denmark, conceptualizing the space as a spiritual journey of birth, transformation, and reincarnation. The interior features engraved walls, vibrant red lighting, and abstract sculptures, aiming to provide clients with a feeling of being "reborn" after their tattooing experience. The design uniquely mirrors the transformative process of getting a tattoo, from bare skin to permanent marking.

Hoff's Covent Garden Flagship: A Fusion of Warmth and Industrial Chic
El Departamento, an interiors studio, crafted the design for Hoff's Covent Garden flagship store, creating an evolution of their Madrid location. The space, spanning 163 square meters, blends warm materials like wood and zellige tiles with industrial elements such as stainless steel and metal grating. This design philosophy aims to project both approachability and contemporary sophistication, setting a distinctive tone for the brand's presence in London's vibrant retail landscape.
A New Hope, Pennsylvania, home has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis courtesy of the local design firm, Rude Haus, which has imbued the residence with a kaleidoscope of hand-crafted elements, transforming it into a vibrant and uniquely personalized living space. Departing from conventional muted palettes, the designers aimed to capture the essence of the surrounding Pennsylvanian landscape, integrating its vivid colors and rich textures into the home's core. This artistic vision materializes in features like a custom dining room mural and drapes fashioned from repurposed silk, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and distinctiveness.
The transformation journey involved a comprehensive update of the main living areas, which, despite initial structural renovations by the homeowners, lacked character and a sense of cohesion. Rude Haus principals Maura Clark and Camila Chicarelli took on the challenge of establishing clear functional zones within the open-plan layout, employing handmade tiles adorned with natural motifs to delineate the transition between the living and dining areas. These intricate tiles, depicting flora and fauna, not only add an artistic touch but also create a symbolic threshold, enhancing the spatial narrative of the home. The studio’s approach thoughtfully addressed budgetary constraints, proving that imaginative design can flourish even under financial limitations, resulting in a lively ambiance that mirrors the homeowners' individuality.
The redesign of Clover House extends to a multi-functional living room, designed to cater to the clients' passion for cinema and an extensive art collection. Here, a vintage walnut cabinet by Stanley Prowler takes center stage, complemented by custom shelving and curtains crafted from deadstock Italian silk, which frame the space with elegance. Further enriching the aesthetic, 1970s linocut prints by artist Henry Evans artfully conceal the television, while contemporary furniture pieces by Kate Casey of Peg Woodworking provide comfort and style. The judicious use of a cheerful periwinkle hue throughout the space, from trim to ceiling beams, not only creates a striking contrast with the darker wood tones but also imparts a sense of continuity and joyful energy, reflecting the studio’s philosophy that color can uplift and unify.
This project is a testament to the power of design to elevate everyday living into an art form. By prioritizing personalization, sustainability, and creative craftsmanship, Rude Haus has not only renovated a house but has also curated a dynamic and inspiring environment that celebrates individuality and the beauty of its natural surroundings. The Clover House stands as a beacon of thoughtful design, demonstrating how a home can be a canvas for personal expression and a sanctuary of positive energy.