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[:bg]When acquiring a home, people mainly take into account the following factors: place, floor, layout. Unfortunately, attention is not always paid to non-obvious features that are further capable of disturbing the comfort of the occupants. One of the serious factors is sound insulation and acoustics.

In a home, sounds penetrate from the external environment, interfloor spaces or spaces between the rooms themselves. For the different types of noise, there are developed prevention systems, which, if desired, are included in the project by a professional designer.

There are two main types of noise – impact noise and airborne noise – each of which requires its own shades of insulation. Impact noise occurs when objects are mechanically impacted on a board. This sound can be triggered, for example, by a simple walking of the neighbors from above. A heavily switched on TV or playing a musical instrument are sources of airborne noise.

The use of acoustic noise removal solutions is not difficult, as long as it is carried out at the beginning of the design. The choice of a sound insulation system is based on the features of the building, namely the materials from which the walls are made.

Exterior interior design is also capable of fighting noise, even if you started thinking about it at the last stage of design. A variety of soft and porous materials in the coating of walls, floors, as well as soft soundproofing furniture, decorative panels and elements are able to significantly reduce sound exchange with neighbors and echoes. Soundproofing properties also have the biggest hit in interior solutions, namely decorative moss.

Conversely, if your home is made in styles such as minimalism and loft, there is not much furniture or partitions in the rooms, and the walls are characterized by a smooth surface, then the acoustics in these rooms will amplify any sound of yours or your neighbors. This is the reason why the decision for sound insulation was made at the beginning of the project in order to be able to integrate the special panels into the walls and/or floor.

 

Noise-absorbing materials can not only be integrated into the walls of the room, but also have a decorative character in the interior. Usually, the positioning of noise-absorbing elements is in close proximity to the sound source (musical instrument, home theater, music speakers). An example of such an element is a sound-absorbing panel, a 3D panel on the walls or a special sound-absorbing furniture made of non-traditional material, the specially made lamps of the pendant type from the images.

One of the best methods of sound insulation is the acoustic ceiling. It reduces the intensity of sound reflection, absorbs noise and improves the acoustics in the room. In the space between the two main layers, you can easily and simply hide the elements of the electrical, ventilation and lighting systems. Most often, pressed boards made of very thin glass or mineral fibers are used as amoisture-absorbing material intended for such ceilings.

The sound insulation system is selected by a professional interior designer who proceeds from a system of factors. For each type of room, layout, wall material, location of the home and even from the specifics of your lifestyle or hobby, the methods, materials and places for positioning sound-absorbing solutions are chosen. [:]

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The modern world of wallpaper impresses with the latest trends and technologies.

Nowadays, there is a wide variety of different wall coverings, but wallpaper is considered one of the traditional and popular materials for transforming the design of any room. Considered obsolete, today wallpaper is an absolute favorite in the creation of Stylish interior!

But why aren’t wallpapers what they used to be?

Thanks to the latest technologies and with the help of natural materials , modern wallpaper is a real work of art, so they are distinguished not only by their unique attractive appearance, but also by their exceptional functionality.

Reputable brands such as Omexco and Khroma offer a range of products made of natural materials that dress the walls in modern interiors. These materials can be silk, cork, bamboo and other plant fibers and natural materials.

Main advantages:

• environmental friendliness – they are safe for health (anti-allergenic) and for the environment;
• sufficiently hardy, exposed to the effects of light and weather;
• easy to maintain and do not require special care;
• with their help, we can model the space through optical illusions;
• design tailored to users’ desire to correct surface defects ;
• Denser types of natural wallpaper have the ability to improve sound insulation, while reducing heat loss in the room.

Natural wallpapers make the interior unique – they breathe life into it, which could not be achieved with surfaces imitating natural materials.

Let’s take a look at the most modern solutions:

Cork wallpaper can be viewed alongside wood wallpaper , as it is made from cork wood. Such cladding has special aesthetic and practical properties. It perfectly complements the interior stylistically, visually and practically gives coziness and warmth to the space. It also has soundproofing properties and retains heat in the room.

Bamboo wallpaper is definitely one of the hits of modern design. They are used for rooms where humidity varies – kitchen and bathroom. The more exquisite ones are successfully combined with the modern style of the rest of the rooms in the home. We advise using bamboo wallpaper for wall cladding and their individual fragments. Wallpapers of natural origin do not stand out in the interior, on the contrary, they perfectly complement it. Tinted bamboo in a variety of colors can help in the realization of many bold and successful combinations.

Silk and linen wallpaper gives the modern interior incredible originality and splendor. Delicate textures in their variety of shades are suitable for both the living room and the bedroom. With proper planning and positioning, with the use of natural shades , we can visually expand the space.

Have you heard of mineral wallpaper? The coating of these wallpapers is made using a special technology that processes materials such as quartz and granite. The material is environmentally friendly and extremely easy to clean. In addition, the produced cladding has unique natural shades, color effects and textures.

Wallpaper goes well with natural materials used for flooring, ceiling cladding and as an element of furniture. Choosing from the variety of colors and textures made of natural material, we can position them as a background or, respectively, as a décor in a room.

Definitely, this variety of colors and materials makes the choice an interesting, fascinating activity, which is often time-consuming. Modern wallpapers correspond to the latest design trends, but they need to be harmoniously combined with the other elements of the room, so do not hesitate to seek professional support in choosing the most modern wall cladding. We are here to assist you in creating your dream interior![:]

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Feng Shui is a philosophical science of balance, the main idea of which is the search for beauty and harmony in oneself and in the surrounding world. This is the reason why this science considers the living space as a living organism and tries to bring it into harmony with man.

Feng Shui interior design, in short, is about maintaining a balance between Yin and Yang (parts of a complete whole), as well as providing access to Qi energy (a fundamental substance in the universe).

How to turn your home into a generator of positive energy? Let’s look at a few rules for organizing space according to Feng Shui, which will help us arrange our home not only stylishly, but also energy literate:

• Use of natural materials;
• Presence of at least one wall with a window in each room;
• Absence of furniture with very sharp shapes;
• Bright but not intrusive lighting, regulated by natural light and light curtains;
• Presence of mirrors visually expanding the space;
• The presence of pictures that evoke positive emotions – according to Feng Shui, they are the main activators of positive energy.

Sounds good, right? But how to make the living room cozy?

The living room is the heart of the home and a symbol of hospitality – according to Feng Shui, the design of this room influences the harmony in the family. Smooth surfaces, plants, a coffee table located in the center of the composition, a bookcase, a sofa with a high back – elements that provide harmony and positive Qi energy . We should not forget about the paintings that complement the design and give completeness to the interior.

Feng Shui in the bedroom?

An important center in our home – the bedroom is the place that protects us from negative energy, where we charge our vitality. The bed is the central element in this room, the shape of which is recommended to be square or rectangular, but never round. For the purpose of harmony , the bed should not be located directly opposite the door into the room.

What should be the design of the bathroom?

The main requirement for the bathroom – a room where the human body is in its natural beauty – cleanliness and conciseness. In this area designed for complete relaxation, all the intrusive details, accessories of the décor that can destroy the positive energy are superfluous. In this space there should be everything you need – bright lighting, mirrors – visually enlargement of the space, ergonomic furniture and good ventilation.

How to organize the kitchen according to Feng Shui?

A source of sustenance and a symbol of the opportunity to eat thanks to our labor. If we spend a third of our lives in the bedroom, then another hour in the kitchen or dining room. That is why the kitchen should be harmoniously furnished and create a cozy atmosphere. One of the main requirements of Feng Shui is the separation of the sink from the oven and the stove (symbols of two opposite elements – water and fire) – this is what determines the correct flow of Qi energy. [:]

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The walls – the main visible part of the interior. They are like the clothes they wear at home – with everyone different and still subordinated to modern trends.

Let’s talk about the latest trends in wall cladding and their role in modern interiors.

Decorative plaster

Traditional and at the same time for modern wall cladding is decorative plaster. This coating can have an interesting relief, which depends on the technique of application and the tools used. The advantage of this type of cladding is the ability to hide existing defects on the wall.

Wallpapers

These are not just rolls of paper with a pattern, but one of the most interesting materials for creating a Unique interior. Today, manufacturers such as Omexco and Khroma, as well as renowned designers not only offer ready-made solutions for wall cladding, but also invite us to create, play in space with colors, shapes, textures and help us realize our need for self-expression.

An important role in the layout of a room subject to the latest trends is played by complex solutions – collections consisting of several types of wallpaper, borders, decors and panels.

Stone

Undoubtedly, the stone will always be relevant . After all, like any natural material , it has a unique texture. An indispensable material in the design of the bathroom in a modern interior is marble. The personification of sophistication and taste, it allows the creation of modern wall compositions and at the same time is beautifully combined with large mirrors.

Wooden cladding

If you want to emphasize the environmental friendliness of the interior as one of the main modern trends, it is possible to use wooden cladding. Whole walls or individual panels – it all depends on the imagination of the designer and the wishes of the inhabitants of the room.

Wood – as a universal material, can be applied not only in the home, but also in office spaces. Practical, environmentally friendly and durable, the material can also have soundproofing characteristics, which is extremely useful not only in residential, but also in public interiors.

Undoubtedly, professional flair plays an essential role in design . It allows every detail in the interior design to be foreseen and to establish a close connection with the temperament of the occupants. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek professional support in choosing wall cladding. We are here to assist you in creating your dream interior! [:]

Smooth lines, open space, laconic details and elements, interesting plants – all this distinguishes a modern garden from other landscape solutions. Let’s discover together what are the other characteristics inherent in this phenomenon.

 

1. Pronounced compositional center

The modern garden is distinguished by its simplicity and laconicism. Before embarking on planning this space, it is necessary to consider it compositionally. The garden should have a center, in the capacity of which it is usually a building structure, most often it is the house.

2. Smooth lines and proximity to nature

The second distinguishing feature is the presence of smooth lines. When zoning space, it is good to avoid straight lines and clearly defined corners. The modern garden is in close proximity to nature, which is why naturalness in geometry is characteristic.

3. Stone and wood

Garden decoration is composed mainly of natural materials – wood and stone. For flooring, predominantly natural stone tiles are used. The coating should not contrast against the general background, which is why it is good to choose monochrome and natural shades. As for the paths – the rule of smooth lines remains.

4. Small architectural forms

When planning a modern garden, special attention is required to choose small architectural forms. Decorative elements should not have pronounced contours. Original and unique forms in moderation are preferable.

5. Functional areas and terraces

Another irreplaceable attribute of a modern garden is the terraces and the hedge. Plants are used as a distinguishing element to create functional zones. The landscape composition should be exquisite and minimalistic. Terraces – framed with spherical bushes, perfectly fit into the overall composition.

6. Asymmetry and repetition of motifs

Despite the fact that a modern garden requires naturalness, construction is unthinkable without planning. Clear proportions, poor symmetry and another distinctive feature – repetition of motifs. Vases of the same shape and style will look spectacular in an asymmetrical arrangement, and the lines of climbing plants will be played with the help of forged elements.

7. Laconic combination of plants

In a modern garden, the variety of plants is not particularly great. Conciseness is also manifested in the choice of trees and shrubs. Particular preference should be given to plants with an interesting crown, a curved trunk or a peculiar leaf pattern. Flowers with bizarre shapes are also suitable. Interesting and bright, they will meet the requirements for naturalness and contrast against the background of the surrounding foliage. [:]

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Lighting fixtures are an obligatory element of the design of any room. Not only the stylistics, but also the practical side of the interior largely depends on their correct choice and combination.

Good lighting and bright lighting are two different things. In a well-lit room , there are different types of lighting fixtures. They have different purposes and their different brightness, help to emphasize the merits of the room and hide the shortcomings, and also make it more interesting and atmospheric.

Knowledge of a few basic rules will give us the opportunity to plan the lighting in the interior correctly and harmoniously.

First we need to determine how we will use the given room. When will it be used, will it be more common in the morning or in the evening?

For example, if you plan to read in the room, then it is good to take care of the placement of lighting fixtures in these areas. If there is a TV in the room, then it is necessary to think about lighting that can be adjusted and located so that it does not interfere with watching the TV.

In case the room is intended for work or for the elderly to stay in it – choose bright and uniform lighting. If it is intended for rest, dim and soft light can be used.

 

In general, there are three main types of lighting: central, zoning (local) and accentuating. To create a harmonious lighting scheme in any interior, it is necessary to use all three types of lighting simultaneously.

This is because the central light is responsible for uniform lighting, thanks to which every part of the space is visible, which is important when receiving guests and cleaning.

The local or zoning light is designed to illuminate certain areas of the room – for example, the area for working, reading or cooking. Most often, pendels, spot lamps and lanterns are used for this purpose.

Please note: depending on the task of the zoning lighting , its location also changes. Thus, the lighting for work or cooking should be located directly in front of us in order to avoid shadowing the work surface. On the other hand, when we talk about reading – the light source should be located on the side.

Accent light, in turn, is a light that visually separates specific places in the interior (for example, an architectural element or a work of art) or itself plays the role of decoration, creating a special atmosphere. As accentuating light, decorative lamps, different types of backlight, garlands, illuminated art objects can be.

The accent light is like the icing on the cake. It is not as basic as the central light or the zoning light, but it appears as a distinctive feature of a well-designed and harmoniously finished interior.

Undoubtedly, this is only a small part of what we need to consider when creating a lighting scheme – an important part of the overall compositional frame of an interior.

Undoubtedly, professional flair plays an essential role in design . It allows every detail in the interior design to be foreseen and to establish a close connection with the temperament of the occupants. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek professional support. We are here to assist you in creating your dream interior! [:]

[:bg]What architecture and interiors are available for hundreds of millions of euros?

These apartments can cost as much as a whole small town, and the largest of them occupy an area of thousands of square meters, has its own elevator, terraces and even its own rooftop pool.

7th place – apartments of 208 sq.m. in Dubai

Value – about 7.2 million euros

Practical, modern interiors are demonstrated by the apartments in the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Despite the non-standard architecture, the apartments have swimming pools and an interesting configuration. What wealthy person will deny himself the pleasure of acquiring a home in the world’s tallest building so far?

6th place – penthouse of 400 sq.m. in Geneva

Value – 12.7 mln. euro

Despite the fact that the main housing stock is quite modest, from time to time more luxurious properties are sold. The main advantage of the dwelling is its size. The atmosphere is simple and sophisticated, compared to the other properties in the ranking.

5th place – studio apartment in Tokyo

Value – EUR 14.9 million

This apartment in Tokyo is considered the most expensive one-bedroom apartment in the world. It consists of a bedroom, a kitchen, a dressing room and a bathroom. All this spreads over 400 sq.m. area. Despite the seeming simplicity and minimalism of the interior, it hides many interesting solutions.

4th place – apartments of 650 sq.m. in Hong Kong

Value – 36 million euros

This is the most expensive dwelling in Asia. The 650 sq.m area includes several kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms, a huge garden, a swimming pool, a gym, a greenhouse, its own park and a roof terrace. The view of the ocean completes the excellent impression.

3rd place – penthouse of 1000 sq.m. in New York

Value – 77 million euros

The luxury apartment occupies two floors in a skyscraper called One57 Penthouse, which is located in central New York in a prestigious area near Central Park. Having an apartment in this building is modern. There is everything here – huge panoramic windows, modern interiors, a private pool and even a winter garden.

2nd place – penthouse of 1 600 sq.m. in London

Value – 150 mln. euro

The luxury apartment is located in an elite area in the One Hyde Park residence. The apartment is equipped with armored windows, and also includes the services of personal sanitary staff and specialized security. Another additional option is the secret underground route to the Heston Blumental restaurant.

1st place – penthouse 3 300 sq.m. in Monaco

Value – 300 mln. euro

For the owner of such a home, nothing is impossible. The most expensive property is located on 5 floors at 170 meters above sea level with sea views. The impressive area includes a cinema, a gym, a swimming pool with a water slide, a game room. A personal driver and a butler are included in the price. [:]

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The favorite pastime of the little ones has become an element of the interior, very often used by designers both in residential and public premises. Agree, it’s fun when adults can relax and enjoy this carefree pastime.

The swings used in the interior are distinguished by their variety of appearance and construction. In addition to the classic models , there are many other options related to all kinds of stylistic trends – from classic to minimalist, having different design features and methods of hanging, created from a variety of materials – from wood to plastic.

Like other objects in the field of contemporary design, the cradle is modified and improved. Undoubtedly, progress has preserved the classic version – a swing that hangs and has a wooden base. This option is most often found in minimalist Scandinavian interiors.

Swings of this type can be diversified with a soft seat, an interesting detail, a change in color scheme or a stylish accessory. If its texture and material matches the rest of the interior elements, a great ensemble will be obtained.

Experimenting and fantasizing, designers have created numerous swings, the seats of which turn them into hanging armchairs. These models are very convenient not only for entertainment, but also for rest and even work.

The main advantages of these armchair swings are functionality, lightness, originality. The materials from which they are made are different: glass, plastic and even concrete. A striking example is the Bubble armchair swings, created in 1968.

A larger version of these armchairs are suspended sofas and even beds. It is difficult to call these objects swings in their pure form, because, as a rule, their main function remains. The greater advantage of these cradles lies in the appropriate combination of the fun component with the possibility of resting. The most important thing is the reliable and high-quality hanging, as well as the right place to position this sufficiently heavy object.

In addition to the hanging ones, there is a large number of standing swings, reminiscent of rocking chairs. The key difference from the latter lies in the reliable fastening of a stationary base, in which only the seat remains dynamic. The main convenience of these swings is the ease of moving, which is quite practical.

The application of swings in the interior is actively expanding along with their improvement. In addition to passing the front door from the street into the room, they can be appropriately used in practically any space: living room, children’s room, bedroom, study, office. There are no specific rules or restrictions here – modern swings will find a worthy place everywhere.

Swings fit most appropriately into modern interiors. They are most often used in the Scandinavian style, loft style, minimalism, eclecticism, art deco and other trends.

Modern design is changing daily, and along with it, unusual elements appear in the interior, such as the swing, the peculiar style and cheerful mood of which allow them to become very popular and, above all, stylish design objects.[:]

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This year’s list of architectural projects will inevitably consist of records: Europe’s tallest building, the world’s largest airport terminal in Istanbul, and Scotland’s first Design Museum.

1. 565 Broom Soho – New York

After the Whitney Museum of American Art, completed last year, Renzo Piano’s first residential building project rises above Firmin Plaza. The two 30-story towers house 115 apartments, prices starting at $970,000.

2. Museum of Design Dundee – Scotland

The new building of the Victoria and Albert Museum branch revives the coast of the Scottish city of Dundee. It is estimated that Scotland’s first Design Museum for the first year will attract around 350,000 visitors.

3. Morpheus Hotel – Macau

This project is also known as the “world’s first building with an exoskeleton”. The sculptural hotel is located in the City of Dreams complex. The external mesh of the exoskeleton enveloping the reinforced concrete core provides transverse resistance to the entire structure.

4. Istanbul Airport

The official opening is planned for the Republic Day on October 29, 2018. The new airport can accommodate a record number of tourists for the existing ports. The project for the world’s largest terminal incorporates motifs from the historical architecture of Istanbul.

5. Guardian Art Center – Beijing

The pixelated volumes of the art center are dictated by the surroundings and make a reference to the historical “Forbidden City” located nearby. The plinth maintains a monolithic, as if carved volume, allowing the museum spaces, the event area and the entertainment center to be filled with light.

6. World One – Mumbai

World One is the tallest building in India and the tallest residential building in the world. The interior of the 117-storey tower was developed by Giorgio Armani, it houses 290 apartments, a swimming pool, a gym, a medical center and even a cricket ground.

7. Grand Egyptian Museum – Giza

The world’s largest archaeological museum in the world will partially open its doors in 2018. The project is complex and the work process has been going on for many years, and the total cost of the site exceeds $ 1 billion. The repetitive geometric motif, of course, refers to the shape of the so-called pyramids that are nearby.

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An office for work or a place to rest? Or maybe a place for breakfast in the air? Whatever its dimensions, these are extra square meters to use wisely!

Balcony in a city apartment – a godsend for the interior designer. Forget about storing unnecessary things. We present you some functional ideas that will inspire you and help you look at balcony meters in a new way.

1. Patio-style balcony

An attractive place to sit among greenery, and at the same time a wonderful opportunity to be outside while you are at the table or having fun with your family and friends. Well-chosen garden furniture, pillows, many spectacular plants, sunlight and lighting powered by it are enough.

2. Breakfast or dinner corner

What could be better than a cozy place for breakfast or a glass of wine in the evening outdoors and all this on your own balcony? Why not create a wonderful place, enjoying the opportunity to spend some time under the playful rays of the sun or under the starry sky. Candles and garlands will add romance, and soft blankets and decorative pillows create coziness.

3. Home Office

In addition to a nice desk, a comfortable chair, as well as a cabinet or shelves for storing books and accessories, it is necessary to think about protection from bright sunlight.

Roman blinds or thick fabric curtains in not very dark colors, in combination with combined lighting (table lamp and overhead lighting) – a formula for the correct layout of the workspace.

4. Lounge area

If you are not a fan of spaces filled with furniture and accessories, you can have space without giving up coziness and comfort. If you like minimalism, a houseplant in a stylish planter and a designer armchair are quite enough.

5. Living room among greenery

Phytostena – a popular technique for decorating walls with natural greenery. Why not use it on your own balcony? No complex irrigation systems and special maintenance are required. Such a design composition consists of plants or moss specially processed, retaining its freshness and beauty.

6. Bar area

Nice view of the city? Why not make a stylish bar area on the balcony? An ergonomic skirting bar counter with a depth of at least 30-40 cm., high chairs and a rack for alcoholic beverages or a designer service are the realization of the idea.

7. Dressing room and storage space

A full-fledged dressing room on the balcony, of course, will not work for us, but setting up space for storing things is a completely practical solution. Additional bookshelves, a designer wardrobe or bed linen will help unload the main territory of the apartment.

8. Mini-greenhouse

If you are a lover of indoor plants, a corner with flowers or ornamental trees will delight the eye. On the other hand, you can dedicate this space to fresh spices – various shade-loving plants such as tarragon, mint, lemon balm will smell pleasant and will serve you in the preparation of your favorite dishes.

9. Pet Home

Beds for cats, cages for rabbits… Where can we find a place for them in an apartment if it is already stylistically sustainable? If the balcony is well secured and warm, we can safely accommodate the animal along with its accessories. Undoubtedly, your pet will sit comfortably and appreciate this space of its own.

If you are still hesitant and find it difficult to put your ideas into practice, then do not hesitate to seek professional support. We are always there for an expert look at your interior and exterior! [:]