Arsenal B47

A couple of weeks ago I featured Swiss architect Ralph Germann...but it turns out I used some photos I shouldn't have. OOPS! I was kindly sent lots of juicy photos of 2 projects I am allowed to feature (thanks Ralph and Christiane!), so here is one of them. I LOVE this home because it has the "modern cabin" vibe I desperately want for my new house.

Arsenal B47 - The owner of the arsenal wanted to convert this former Swiss army building, constructed during the Second World War, into a habitable space. Ralph Germann’s transformation involved inserting a glass cube into the old structure, an option which meant he didn’t have to touch the patina of the walls, and was able to preserve the roof and some historic details such as the "charge maximum 1500 kg au m²”[maximum load 1500 kg/m²] sign on the wall. Whilst wishing to preserve this testimony to the past, the architect retained only simple materials – noble and solid – including larch, slate, glass and metal. And by interpreting them using clean, pure lines, he has given the chalet a timeless feel. To avoid sliding into an atmosphere of austerity, Ralph Germann has added an unexpected touch of colour behind the cloakroom door: a bold shade of fuchsia. This design, functional above all else, places the emphasis on light and space. To achieve the second, the architect has designed another cube – but in wood this time. Set within the heart of the glass structure, it houses the WCs, cupboards, and even the bed, which folds up when not in use. This optimizes space in this area, which measures only 49 m².

Click to read more ...

Villa San Lorenzo

Debora from Italy sent us some photos and info of a restored farm located in the heart of Tuscany. It's the charming house and the evocative artistic world of Mrs. Paola Vallini, also known as Nerina P., painter. Best thing of the house is the big fireplace in the hall with archway made of red brick. In front of it there is a big and antique oriental rug. The kitchen is furnished with antique Italian pieces made of fine solid wood, and decorated with the family collection of pottery from florentine area. In the garden there's an old-fashioned oven to make tasty pizzas and fragrant bread. Artworks on walls are all made by Nerina P. This classic Tuscan style home is absolutely beautiful, and would be a dream to visit, with a glass of wine in hand. 

Click to read more ...

Through the door

Come on in. Pass through the door and you too can enter the world of photographer Brie Williams. Loose yourself in these beautiful rustic images. Feel the sun, hide in the shadows, run your hands across the rough walls. Be drawn in to the story behind the images. Let your mind wander and wonder. Who lives here? Where are these houses? Explore and enjoy. The photographer has done her job well.

Click to read more ...

I want a barn with blue shutters

Sometimes I hate real estate stalking. Sometimes it just makes me mad. Mad with jealousy. I want a barn with blue shutters. Old timber and quaint doors and soaring ceilings and a big fire place. I want a claw foot bath and an old vintage sink. I want to live in a quaint country town in a street called Wombat. I want this barn .... full of all my things. Lend me some money please? I'll let you stay in the "guest wing". Link here while it lasts.

Click to read more ...

Westport Studio

I LOVE this little 775 sq ft apartment located in Malmesbury, UK (it's a unique hilltop market town established in 880AD!!!). This property dates to 1850, is solid stone and has been totally renovated. I'm forever a fan of old, rustic homes brought into the 21st century - love the stone walls and the beamed ceilings. It has such a cosy feel to it. The kitchen design is pretty creative - I take it it's for folks who mostly eat out (although it even has a dishwasher!). How cool that it's accessed from the road via a courtyard so it's totally private. More details here and the agent's page here. 

Click to read more ...