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BDNY 2024: The Most Innovative Materials and Sustainable Design Take Center Stage

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The 2024 Boutique Design New York (BDNY) trade fair, held at the Jacob K. Javits Center on November 10-11, brought together visionaries from the hospitality design world, revealing bold new trends and groundbreaking innovations. With over 700 exhibitors and a record-breaking attendance of 20,000, the event showcased cutting-edge products, inspiring discussions, and invaluable networking opportunities for industry professionals.

Flexibility Reimagined in Wood Paneling

Surfacing Solution captured attention at BDNY 2024 with their innovative tambour panels and the introduction of Wide Plank Wood Wall and Ceiling Panels. With 37 years of industry experience, Surfacing Solution has become a leader in crafting versatile wood panels that address the evolving needs of hospitality design.

Surfacing Solution

Designer: Surfacing Solution + Zack Fistrovich

Inspired by the French word for drum, the company’s tambour panels blend aesthetics with functionality. These flexible wood panels bring warmth, texture, and visual appeal to surfaces such as walls, ceilings, pole wraps, wainscoting, and doors. Their standout feature is the seamless ability to cover flat surfaces and rounded corners, allowing designers to craft fluid wood surfaces that adapt to any architectural element.

Wide Plank Panels: A New Dimension in Design

Surfacing Solution also showcased its new Wide Plank Wood Wall & Ceiling Panels. Crafted from premium North American hardwoods—with exotic wood species also available—these panels ensure both durability and visual sophistication. The Wide Plank collection blends timeless tradition with modern elegance, transforming interior spaces into refined, inviting environments.

Surfacing Solution

The panels come in various exciting profile shapes to cater to different design aesthetics:

  • V-Groove Joint: This traditional profile features a V shadow line, creating a classic lodge ideal for rustic aesthetics. The tongue-and-groove interlocking mechanism provides a secure fit.
  • Interlock Joint: Designed for a minimalist look, this tight-fitting, seamless joint works well in modern spaces, pairing perfectly with tambour panels for a unified design.
  • Shadow Gap Joint: This versatile profile offers varying widths and spacings to achieve anything from classic to contemporary styles. The nickel gap tongue-and-groove interlocking feature ensures both functionality and striking visual appeal.

Available in standard and custom specifications, the Wide Plank panels give designers limitless possibilities to bring their vision to life. The panels can be stained or painted, making them adaptable to any design scheme. Additionally, FSC-certified options make these panels a conscious choice for sustainability-focused projects.

Surfacing Solution

Tambour Panels: The Backbone of Versatility

Surfacing Solution displayed a wide range of wood options for their tambour panels, including:

  • Standard woods: Red oak, white oak, poplar
  • Premium woods: Mahogany, cherry, ash, maple, walnut
  • Specialty woods: Purple heart, heat-treated ash/poplar

These panels are available in standard profiles of 1′ x 8′ or 1′ x 3′ lengths, with widths of 12″ or 16″. Custom sizes and profiles are also offered, with panels up to 12 feet in length for certain wood species—perfect for large-scale installations.

Surfacing Solution

The versatility of Surfacing Solution’s tambour panels was a key highlight at BDNY 2024. These panels can be stained or painted to align with any design vision, making them suitable for hospitality applications ranging from hotel lobbies to restaurants and bars.

Their new line of real wood veneer tambour panels also made waves, offering seamless installations up to 10 feet high with 4’x10′ veneers. Available in 4’x8′ sheets, these panels offer a cost-effective alternative to solid wood without compromising natural beauty. Species include birch, teak, white oak, and walnut.

Surfacing Solution

The wire-brushed finish option enhances grain depth and detail, adding a tactile, visually striking surface. Available in red oak, white oak, and ash, this finish is ideal for hospitality environments that seek a natural, organic feel.

Each slat is meticulously hand-selected to ensure a high standard of craftsmanship that distinguishes the company within the industry. This attention to detail, combined with the ability to produce custom profiles and sizes at low setup costs, makes Surfacing Solution an ideal partner for designers seeking high-quality, distinctive wood solutions.

Surfacing Solution

Sustainability Takes the Spotlight

Sustainability took center stage at BDNY 2024, with numerous exhibitors presenting eco-friendly materials and products. The Good Plastic Company won the sustainable product award for their Polygood material, which showcased how recycled plastic waste can be transformed into striking and functional design elements.

Designer: Havwoods

Havwoods also made a significant impact with their TreeAzzo material and Bog Oak flooring panels.

TreeAzzo: Modern Terrazzo Twist

TreeAzzo represents an innovative approach to terrazzo flooring, offering a modern twist on the classic material. This unique surfacing solution combines reclaimed wood chips with premium, eco-friendly resin to create a fresh and sustainable alternative to traditional terrazzo.

Havwoods

The use of reclaimed wood chips in TreeAzzo provides a distinctive aesthetic that aligns with sustainable building practices by repurposing materials that might otherwise go to waste. This approach results in a surface that blends the organic warmth of wood with the seamless, continuous appearance characteristic of terrazzo.

TreeAzzo is available in a range of customizable resin colorways, including options such as Raspberry, Nougat, Fig, and Oyster. These color choices allow designers to tailor the appearance of TreeAzzo to suit various interior design schemes and preferences.

Havwoods

One of TreeAzzo’s features is that each panel is handcrafted, ensuring that no two installations are exactly alike. This approach adds a unique character and depth to the spaces where it’s used, making each application truly one-of-a-kind.

This material offers versatility in its applications. It can be used for flooring, wall cladding, cabinetry, and even worktops, providing designers with flexibility in how they incorporate this material into their projects.

TreeAzzo is available with either fiber cement or ply backing to accommodate different installation requirements. This option allows for greater adaptability to various substrate conditions and installation methods.

Havwoods

While TreeAzzo represents a departure from traditional terrazzo materials, it maintains the durability and design flexibility that terrazzo is known for, while adding a unique, eco-friendly twist. This innovative product offers architects and designers a new option for creating sustainable, visually striking surfaces in commercial and residential settings.

Bog Oak: Rich History and Luxurious Aesthetic

Bog Oak, also showcased at BDNY 2024, is crafted from semi-fossilized trees aged between 100 and 1,000 years. This unique wood offers a richly saturated black tone, achieved through a custom drying process that ensures consistency and durability. Bog Oak’s luxurious aesthetic and historical significance make it perfect for high-end interiors.

Bog Oak

Both products are strongly dedicated to eco-conscious design, blending historical significance with artistic craftsmanship.

Italian Grande and Crocodilo: Versatile Design Solutions

Havwoods also introduced two other products at BDNY 2024: Italian Grande and Crocodilo. Italian Grande, part of the Italian Collection, brings a rich, smokey tone in plank, herringbone, and chevron patterns—ideal for creating sophisticated interiors that balance beauty and cost-effectiveness. Crocodilo, an oak-veneered MDF panel, uses an embossing technique to create a crocodile texture, making it perfect for spaces like bars, restaurants, and hotel lobbies where visual depth is desired.

Textiles: Capturing Nature’s Spirit

HBF Textiles captivated BDNY 2024 attendees with their award-winning “Moments of Wander” collection, which claimed top honors in the fabric category. This collection captures the biophilic design trend, seamlessly blending artistic sensibility with functional performance.

HBF Textiles

Designer: HBF Textiles + Christiane Müller

Designed by renowned textile artist Christiane Müller of MüllerVanTol, the “Moments of Wander” collection includes three distinct patterns, each inspired by fleeting moments in nature:

  • Fields of Velvet: Soft, undulating textures evoke natural landscapes like grass or wheat fields.
  • Trails of Tweed: A rugged, textured aesthetic inspired by winding trails and natural paths.
  • Seeds of Colour: Vibrant, scattered patterns reminiscent of wildflower fields and colorful natural elements.

The unique strength of this collection lies in its versatility—it brings the softness of indoor fabrics while ensuring durability for outdoor use. This blend is especially valuable in hospitality, where the line between indoor and outdoor spaces is increasingly blurred.

Debuting in September 2024, the “Moments of Wander” collection showcases HBF Textiles’ most innovative work. By capturing both the macro- and micro-beauty of nature, these textiles provide designers with a tactile way to integrate outdoor elements into interior environments.

This aligns with hospitality’s broader push towards immersive, nature-inspired design. The “Moments of Wander” collection enables designers to evoke natural serenity, enhancing both comfort and well-being through biophilic design.

Silver Threads: Custom Window Treatments and Signature Spaces

Silver Threads, established in 1982, is recognized as one of the nation’s leading providers of custom window treatments for both the hospitality and residential sectors. At BDNY 2024, they showcased their work in the “Salone by Baskervill” space, a feature that drew considerable attention for its intricate design and execution.

The “Salone by Baskervill” space took inspiration from the 15th-century salons, which were known for encouraging in-person dialogue and creative interaction. Silver Threads played a significant role in transforming this vision into reality. Their contribution included a stunning 19.5-foot-diameter central drapery that served as the focal point of the space. Additionally, custom drapery installations framed both ends, suspended elegantly from the ceiling using airline cables. This installation not only added visual grandeur but also contributed to the intimate, engaging atmosphere that the space was designed to evoke.

Silver Threads’ extensive experience in the industry is evident through its high-profile project portfolio, which includes notable locations such as the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, FL, the Crown Plaza in Indianapolis, and the Hilton Downtown Columbus. Their ability to execute complex, large-scale installations while maintaining an intimate feel demonstrates their versatility and expertise in crafting custom window solutions that enhance the aesthetic and functional aspects of any space.

Furniture and Lighting: Redefining Boundaries

Dedon took home the “Best in Show” award for their Cirql Nu chair, designed by Werner Aisslinger. The Cirql Nu features Dedon’s invert fiber, created through a co-extrusion process that merges two types of fiber into one. This innovative technique results in a distinctive 3D effect that is both visually captivating and functionally impressive, underscoring Dedon’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of outdoor furniture design.

In lighting, Bover’s Kando collection stole the spotlight. The innovative designs illustrated how lighting transcends mere functionality—it serves as an artistic statement, transforming hospitality spaces with the perfect balance of beauty and utility.

Flooring Innovations: Adding Sensory Layers

Royal Thai’s Tactile Vernacular Collection, which won the flooring category prize, emphasized how crucial texture is in modern design. More than just an aesthetic element, the collection demonstrates how flooring can elevate the entire sensory experience of a space, affecting how guests perceive and interact with their surroundings.

Royal Thai’s Tactile Vernacular Collection

The Tactile Vernacular Collection utilizes a variety of textures that invite touch and create a sense of depth, transforming flooring from a background element into a dynamic part of the environment. The collection’s diverse patterns and finishes provide designers with tools to create spaces that are not only visually striking but also engage multiple senses, enhancing comfort and ambiance.

This approach aligns with the hospitality industry’s broader goal of creating immersive environments that foster memorable experiences. By focusing on texture, Royal Thai’s innovative flooring contributes significantly to the sensory palette of a room, making it an integral component in the overall design narrative.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hospitality Design

BDNY 2024 highlighted current trends while offering a clear view of the future of hospitality design. New initiatives like the Dine & Design: A BDNY PopUp area reflected the industry’s growing focus on adaptable and multifunctional spaces. This trend caters directly to the evolving needs of modern travelers, who prioritize flexibility, comfort, and experience-driven environments.

As the hospitality industry continues to redefine itself, BDNY plays a crucial role in bringing together the innovators and trendsetters shaping the future. From Surfacing Solution’s tambour panels to the sustainable offerings by Havwoods and The Good Plastic Company, the event spotlighted products driving the industry forward—embracing sustainability, versatility, and impactful design.

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Acoustic panels uses textile waste for sustainable production

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With the popularity of fast fashion, there is also a lot of textile waste that ends up in landfills and have not been recycled or upcycled. There are several groups that have been advocating for more eco-friendly fashion that includes not supporting these kinds of manufacturers and looking for ways to have better use for household textile waste. You don’t even have to create new clothes from them but find other uses outside of fashion.

Designer Name: Sze Tjin Yek

The Sorbet acoustic panels is one such project, turning all these shredded textile waste into acoustic panels that can be used for homes, offices, and other commercial spaces. Panels like these are important to minimize noise pollution within closed areas for both the mental and physical health of users. But instead of the usual acoustic panels made from open cell polyurethane, these are made textile waste which have the second lowest recovery rate in Australia after plastics.

These panels are made from 100% laundered and upcycled household textile waste. These are durable enough but of course they need to be bonded together and the inventor used a starch-based glue. And since the textile used have different colors and textures, there are three aesthetic options created: Blueberry Lemonade (blue and gold), Red Velvet (red and black(, and Hundreds and Thousands. The third one uses more color options since textiles are of course varied.

This kind of panel is of course more sustainable than your usual ones that use recycled PET and textile fibers bonded with mycelium. The next step would be to create a process that can make this commercially viable and also look at installation methods for it.

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Organic Elegance: 10 Ways to Embrace the Organic Furniture and Décor Trend

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The latest trend in interior design, known as ‘organic shapes,’ embraces soft, oversized curves and luxurious silhouettes, creating a welcoming ambiance in any space. This trend transforms furniture and décor, mirroring the fluidity of nature for a serene atmosphere. From curved sofas to asymmetrical curvaceous tables, it’s a common design feature that adds a touch of modern sophistication to interior spaces.

Organic shapes consist of flowing lines and sweeping curves inspired by nature, free from rigid structures, sleek lines, or sharp angles. These forms reflect the natural contours that are found in landscapes and greenery. Additionally, their soft shapes evoke feelings of comfort and calm. Here are the top 10 why organic shapes are a growing trend in interior design.

Designer: Superlife

1. Natural Elegance

Organic shapes are reminiscent of the natural world and offer a visually appealing and soothing effect. Our eyes are naturally drawn to these shapes and remind us of the innate beauty found in the world around us. And just like nature, this beauty doesn’t always come from complexity but from unexpected simplicity.

In this example, the Flow table collection harmonizes functionality with nature-inspired design, resembling the fluidity of water and organic cell structures. With varying heights and shapes, these tables offer both structural art and practical utility, evoking a serene yet lively ambiance reminiscent of nature’s harmony.

2. Infuses Calm

Organic shapes feature flowing lines that bring in a feeling of comfort and tranquillity, creating an inviting and relaxing ambiance. We see this in the contours of mountain peaks, the curves of the shoreline, or the colors of the seasons. Some cultures easily incorporate these themes in their designs, and Japan is one of the most popular examples of this kind of design philosophy.

Designer: Nendo for Paola Lenti

Paola Lenti’s collaboration with Japanese design firm Nendo for Milan Design Week unveils the Hanara-shi series. Inspired by Japanese cherry blossoms and samurai armor, this organic-shaped collection features suspended lamps, baskets, floor lamps, armchairs, and poufs. Crafted from recyclable, waterproof Maris mesh, the furniture showcases an innovative design with recovered cutoffs for upholstery, blending beauty and sustainability seamlessly.

3. Versatile Design

Organic shapes find their best fit in furniture, lighting, accessories, and various architectural details. Almost any object can benefit from incorporating organic shapes, but these objects sing a different tune when given such a facelift. From utilitarian tools to accent pieces, they take on a more human character just by having smooth-flowing surfaces and curved forms.

Designers: Wei Jingye, Song Kexin, Zheng Xiaolei and Zhou Haoyuan

The Wowo Multipurpose Furniture is a solution for homes with both kids and pets. This innovative collection offers versatile pieces designed to accommodate both human and furry family members. Crafted with comfort in mind, the hollow structures provide a cozy spot for pets to rest while kids enjoy comfortable seating. Made with high-quality materials including solid wood and utilizing advanced 3D-printing technology, Wowo furniture ensures durability and longevity.

4. Timeless Aesthetics

The organic shapes are a timeless design trend that will not go out of style for years to come. This distinctive rocking chair draws inspiration from the fascination with UFOs, featuring a bowl-shaped exterior crafted from fiberglass or carbon fiber for stability. Its regal design and ergonomic shape offer comfort and support, while luxurious Italian leather or fine fabrics adorn the upholstery. With its unique appearance and versatile design, this curvaceous chair serves as a captivating centerpiece, inviting users to experience an otherworldly seating experience reminiscent of floating on air.

Designer: Mavimatt

The “Balance” side table concept combines elegance and an organic shape with a precarious design, challenging expectations of stability. Crafted from terrazzo and recycled materials, it features interlocking mechanisms for security. Its dynamic appearance sparks conversation, blending aesthetics with sustainability.

Designer: Stuart Cole

5. Biophilic Design

The organic shape design trend is rooted in biophilic design principles, supporting well-being through a connection with natural elements and fostering a sense of harmony with the environment. In this case, the association with nature becomes a bit more evident, creating a stronger effect that resonates with the rest of the space.

Designer: Gokul Retheesh

The VersaRest Chaise Lounge is crafted with a wooden oak base and luxurious full-grain leather upholstery, it offers unparalleled comfort and style. This innovative sofa with a biophilic vibe integrates hidden storage drawers, adjustable tables, and integrated LED lighting. This thoughtful design combines convenience, luxury, and versatility in one elegant piece.

6. Enhances Creativity

The fluid lines of organic shapes allow for creativity, paving the way for unique aesthetics to emerge. It’s not easy to incorporate curves in a typically flat product, and it requires some outside-the-box thinking to pull off an organic shape that combines form and function in a harmonious way.

Designer: Mavimatt

Chairs often serve as impromptu shelves due to limited space. Imagine a chair seamlessly transforming into a shelf or table—a solution offered by Metamorfosi. Unlike conventional multifunctional furniture, it remains fixed, its hollow shape concealing three functions: chair, table, and bookcase. Handcrafted with dynamic organic shapes and glossy finishes, it blurs the line between furniture and art, offering elegance and versatility.

7. Softens the Interiors

The curvaceous shapes of organic furniture contrast with the sleek lines of straight walls, ceilings, and furniture, contributing to a sense of balance and harmonious design. Incorporating organic shapes into lighting fixtures, such as pendant lights with rounded shades or sconces with flowing lines, adds softness to the interiors.

Designer: Kosmos Architects

“The Dice” by Kosmos Architects is a versatile furniture piece inspired by dice markings. Crafted from oak wood using robotics technology, it transforms into a stool, coffee table, leg bench, and lamp with a frosted glass interior. Lightweight and portable, its organic silhouette serves functional and decorative purposes, making it ideal for small spaces or on-the-go lifestyles.

8. Adaptable Design

Another benefit of organic shapes is their ability to seamlessly blend with traditional, modern, and transitional design styles, making them a highly adaptable design element. The best part is that mixing and matching organic shapes with other decor styles can result in a distinctive and eclectic aesthetic.

Designer: Julian Topor

The KURVE furniture collection redefines space-saving design with minimalist plywood pieces. Each item boasts curved layers that offer both organic aesthetics and functionality, featuring a chair, couch, table, and nightstand. Crafted from a single sheet of plywood, the chair’s unique backless box design maximizes storage, while the couch includes a central console and compartments. The trapezoidal table and nightstand provide sleek storage solutions, perfect for small spaces.

9. Beautifies the Space

The natural curves in furniture and art can enhance spaces, bringing a positive vibe and elevating the overall atmosphere. A substantial piece of furniture or artwork featuring organic shapes offers an excellent opportunity to make a statement in your home.

Designer: Mauricio Coelho

The Oco chair concept blends simplicity and visual intrigue with its unconventional bowl-shaped design. Crafted from carbon steel and fiberglass, it offers structural stability with subtle material details. However, concerns about comfort arise due to the thick cushions potentially lacking adequate support for the back and exposed edges posing discomfort. Minor adjustments could enhance ergonomics without compromising its geometric elegance.

10. Organic Accents

Small organic accents, like a vase or bowl, can greatly alter the overall ambiance of your interiors. Opting for pieces made from natural materials such as wood, stone, or ceramic mirrors the curves of nature.

Designer: João Teixeira

Wave is a groundbreaking shelf concept that transforms your space. Not just for books, Wave doubles as a mirror, enhancing both functionality and style. While it may not offer a complete mirror reflection, its wavy shape adds a distinctive touch to any room. With around 4-5 parts, assembly is a breeze, ensuring versatility in placement. While it may not cater to those seeking a full-length mirror, Wave embodies a harmonious blend of form and function, making it an ideal addition to modern living spaces.

This Sculptural Bench Is The Thought-Provoking & Conversation-Starting Furniture You Need In Your Home

Crafted by Madrid-based designer Verónica Mar for Les Ateliers Courbet, the Soul Sculpture Bench embodies a minimalist yet spiritually sensitive design. Inspired by the universe’s intricate spiral patterns, it seamlessly merges nature with design, serving as a versatile piece for private or public spaces. More than seating, it sparks contemplation about the universe’s beauty and connections, inviting viewers to reflect and discuss.

Incorporating organic shapes into your decor doesn’t just add visual interest and dimension. It also creates a dynamic and visually stimulating environment that captures the imagination and inspires creativity. And it doesn’t need to be elaborate or extravagant, either, allowing more freedom in crafting products that stimulate the eyes and calm the mind.

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Why is Mycelium Nature’s Sustainable Hero in Building Materials?

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Mycelium, an intricate mesh of fungal filamentous cells known as hyphae, is formed by fungi across a broad spectrum of organic substrates. Mycelium, known for durability and eco-friendliness, is ideal for creating daily-use products, offering resilience and sustainability for designers aiming to craft durable, environmentally responsible items with minimal ecological impact.

Designer: Interesting Times Gang and OBOS

What are the advantages of using Mycelium?

Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is gaining attention in product design for several reasons:

• Sustainable Material

Mycelium is an eco-friendly material and an alternative to plastic or foam. It’s important to note that mycelium-based products are renewable, biodegradable, and can be combined with agricultural waste products to create composite materials.

Designer: FirstBuild

Mella is an automated chamber designed for effortless cultivation of various crops at home. Utilizing smart technology, Mella regulates environmental conditions to ensure optimal growth and harvest. With features like a refillable water basin, LED lights, and WiFi compatibility, Mella simplifies the cultivation process for all types of crops, making home gardening convenient and accessible.

• Flexible

Mycelium is a flexible material that can be grown and molded into various shapes and forms. It can be used to create numerous products, ranging from furniture to packaging.

Designers: Diego Mata and NOS Design

The Grow It Yourself Helmet is a sustainable DIY helmet crafted from mushrooms that actually grows on its own! Created by NOS Design, this innovative helmet is made from mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi. It’s 100% compostable, breathable, and impact-resistant, reducing the need for plastics. Partnering with Polybion, the helmet utilizes Fungicel, a mycelium-based material that provides cushioning upon impact. This biodegradable, low-cost alternative promotes sustainability and engages users in a meaningful DIY activity, offering a practical and eco-friendly solution.

• Highly Durable

Mycelium products are strong and durable, their strength and durability depend on their conditions of growth and processing techniques.

• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation

Mycelium has excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and finds its application in the construction and packaging industry, where insulation is essential.

Designer: Mogu

The Foresta System by Mogu is a groundbreaking collection of sustainable modular acoustic panels. Crafted from a unique blend of mycelium and upcycled textile materials, these panels offer organic yet durable noise-reduction solutions for spaces like offices and restaurants. Recognized for its eco-conscious design, Foresta integrates mycelium into its build. With a 100% circular design ethos and advanced wood processing technologies, Foresta combines elegance with innovation, setting a new standard in acoustic panel design.

Designer: Jonas Edvard

Jonas Edvard’s Myx Sail / Floor is a groundbreaking sound-absorbing panel, merging mushroom mycelium, hemp, and willow in a 1m x 1m design. Collaborating with nature, he explores mycelium’s flexibility and rigidity within a modular mold, envisioning its seamless integration into living spaces. With a focus on sound absorption, Edvard’s research highlights the viability of mycelium in reducing environmental impact while inspiring a harmonious relationship between design and nature.

• Biodegradable

Mycelium is a biodegradable material that breaks down naturally at the end of its lifecycle thus reducing its environmental pollution.

• Low Carbon Footprint

Growing mycelium demands fewer resources, it does not release a lot of greenhouse gases which makes it better for the environment.

• Material and Product Innovation

Another advantage is that mycelium can be combined with other natural materials like hemp or straw to create stronger composite materials with enhanced properties.

Designer: Emilie Burfeind

Sneature is a biodegradable shoe crafted with waste materials and 3D knitting technology. Designed by Burfeind, this sustainable sneaker offers an eco-conscious alternative to traditional footwear. Featuring a protein-based 3D knit membrane made from dog hair and a mushroom mycelium sole composed of local vegetable waste, Sneature prioritizes sustainability and customization. With water-repellent properties and a second-skin feel, Sneature combines style with environmental responsibility.

Designer: Stephanie Singer

MYC is a sustainable disposable grill made from mycelium and was created by industrial design student Stephanie Singer, MYC offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional aluminum grills. After use, MYC can be left to biodegrade and enrich the soil. With a grate made of bamboo sticks and dried corn cobs as fuel, MYC promotes sustainability without compromising convenience.

• Organic Aesthetic

Mycelium-based materials can offer a unique, organic aesthetic with a natural look, making them attractive to product designers.

Designer: Sebastian Cox with Ninela Ivanova

Sebastian Cox’s Mycelium pendant lamps redefine production by growing rather than being manufactured. Partnering with researcher Ninela Ivanova, Cox utilizes mycelium, the vegetative part of mushrooms, and scrap willow wood to create these uniquely rustic lamps. Each lamp takes 4-12 weeks to grow and is entirely compostable, showcasing the fusion of natural elements in sustainable design.

What are the disadvantages of using Mycelium?

Although mycelium is a sustainable material, it faces some challenges

• No Standardization

As mycelium is a natural product, its growth is influenced by temperature and humidity, making it difficult to achieve a standardized and consistent product. Note that mycelium growth takes longer and is not suitable for mass production or time-sensitive projects.

Designers: Myceen

‘B-Wise’ by Myceen is a sustainable lampshade crafted entirely from mycelium. This innovative design grows into its unique shape in just 5 weeks, using organic waste materials. With a rugged appearance reminiscent of leather, mycelium offers eco-friendly properties and versatile applications, even extending to architecture and space exploration.

• Moisture Sensitivity

Mycelium-based materials are susceptible to moisture, which can impact their structural strength and lifespan, potentially leading to product degradation if not stored correctly.

• Limited Applications

Mycelium-based products have limited applications and may not be suitable for items exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Furthermore, mycelium is yet to gain widespread market acceptance.

Designer: RMIT University

Fungi could become a game-changer in fireproofing homes. Researchers at a Melbourne university have developed fire-retardant mycelium sheets that offer insulation and can be applied over flammable surfaces. These bioengineered sheets, derived from fungi, are both sustainable and environmentally friendly, emitting natural water and carbon dioxide. The aim is to enhance fire safety in buildings while minimizing environmental impact.

• Costly Material

The costs associated with research and development contribute to the expense of producing mycelium-based products, making them economically unfeasible for certain applications.

Why is Mycelium becoming a popular construction material?

Mycelium-based building materials are crafted via myco-composite manufacturing which blends mycelium with agricultural waste such as straw, sawdust, or hemp. This mixture is poured into molds and left to settle for several days. During this time, the mycelium digests the agricultural waste, bonding with it to create a sturdy, cohesive material. Once fully grown and solidified, the material is removed from the molds, and ready for construction use.

Although this eco-friendly solution is still under study for its strength and durability compared to conventional options like bricks, mycelium finds applications in insulation, soundproofing, and lightweight construction blocks.

Designer: The Living

“Alive” is a groundbreaking architectural prototype by The Living. This innovative structure utilizes probiotic materials, showcasing the future of sustainable architecture. Crafted from mycelium, the vegetative part of mushrooms, it offers a glimpse into a new era of eco-friendly design. Its organic, porous construction provides a habitat for various microbes while facilitating interaction between humans and microorganisms. Made from renewable luffa fibers, this prototype embodies sustainability and adaptability. “Alive” is not just a concept for the future – it’s a practical solution for creating healthier, more environmentally friendly spaces today.

Designer: Pierre Oskam and Max Latour

Urban Reef is a 3D-printed mycelium-based structure designed to enhance biodiversity in cities. Developed by a Netherlands-based company, this innovative project aims to stimulate water circularity and support diverse ecosystems within urban environments. Utilizing porous materials like ceramics and mycelium composites, Urban Reef creates an ideal habitat for fungi and vegetation to thrive, promoting sustainable urban ecosystems without human intervention.

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How to Embrace Earthy Tones in Architecture and Interior Design

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Earth-toned colors, inspired by nature, bring a harmonious, inviting, and organic feel to any space. From the hues of warm terracottas and bricks to the cool tones of natural stone, these colors create a soothing, grounded effect. By incorporating materials and hues that reflect the natural world, you can infuse your home with the tranquil and balanced essence of earthy tones. Here’s how to weave these colors and textures into architecture and interior design.

Designer: Emerging Objects

1. Rammed Earth Construction

Rammed earth brings a natural, warm aesthetic to a home with its rich, tactile texture, creating a beautiful connection with the environment. Its earthy tones blend effortlessly with natural materials, enhancing the organic look of a space. Additionally, rammed earth regulates the internal temperature and humidity and promotes a comfortable living environment.

Casa Covida blends ancient earth-based construction techniques with modern 3D printing technology. Created by Emerging Objects in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, this prototype home uses a robotic arm to 3D-print a mix of sand, silt, clay, and water. The structure features a central space with a customizable inflatable roof, a sleeping area with beetle-kill pine furniture, and a bathing space with a metal tub surrounded by river stones. Named to reflect both the pandemic era and the concept of cohabitation, Casa Covida explores the synergy between traditional materials and contemporary tech, highlighting how ancient techniques can be revitalized with modern innovations.

2. Exposed Brick Design

The warm tones of brick, ranging from rich reds and oranges to muted grays, add a rustic vibe and tactile quality, enhancing the organic feel of both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Designer: Wallmakers

Toy Storey, designed by Wallmakers in Kerala, India, is a circular home that ingeniously repurposes around 6,200 discarded toys as structural and decorative elements. The residence features a striking facade that integrates compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB), Mangalore tiles, and recycled toys in rich earthy tones. Its circular layout, central courtyard, and composite CSEB-Toy Jaali wall enhance ventilation and insulation, while a basement adds functional living space. Toy Storey blends tradition with modernity and challenges conventional architecture and consumption, celebrating sustainability and creativity with a nod to childhood nostalgia and environmental awareness.

Designer: Omar Gandhi Architects, Filo Timo, Aaline

Wall lamps are mounted on walls to enhance the indoor or outdoor ambiance. Innovative designs like the OG Brick embed lights directly into the wall, creating a seamless effect with earthy hues that blend naturally with brick surfaces. Available in finishes like stainless steel, black powder-coated, and electroplated brown, these lights offer a warm, magical glow. The durable metal frame and color-matching mesh ensure that the lamps integrate effortlessly into their surroundings, adding style and subtle illumination to any space.

3. Integrate Wood

The warm tones of wood, from light beiges and honey to deep browns and rich reds, create a cozy, organic ambiance, while its grain patterns add a rustic feel to interior and exterior spaces.

Designer: Atsushi Kawanishi Architects

Designed by Atsushi Kawanishi Architects, Nightingale House in Osaka is a wooden residence that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces. Covering nearly 1,400 square feet, it features six patios, three interior gardens, and two exterior gardens, with large windows and timber surfaces highlighting earthy tones. The home’s three triangular roofs complement the mountainous backdrop, while its warm, minimalistic design offers a tranquil, Japanese-inspired living experience.

Designer: Julian Topor

The KURVE furniture collection maximizes space with minimalist, curved plywood designs that combine aesthetics with functionality. The KURVE chair features a backless, curved base made from a single sheet of plywood, while the KURVE Couch includes a central console and extra storage underneath. The KURVE table, a simple wooden trapezoid, is ideal for wall placement and organizing items like shoes and keys. The KURVE Night Stand, also a trapezoid, offers additional storage with a drawer positioned below the top. Each piece cleverly integrates storage into its design without complex mechanisms.

4. Use Natural Stone

Natural stone offers a diverse color palette and unique textures, with tones ranging from soft grays and beiges to rich browns and deep blues, creating an earthy, organic appearance. Its inherent patterns and variations, including veining, enhance its natural appeal and rugged charm.

Designer: Burcu Nehir Tum

The MEMORABLE picture frame combines the timeless elegance of marble with versatile functionality in earthy hues. Its modular design features a rail system for attaching interchangeable modules such as a pen holder, vase, or note holder and allows for customized use. Marble’s unique patterns and durability provide both stability and a refined look. The frame supports two modules at a time and can be paired with additional frames for expanded display. While the rail system is limited to certain modules and its compatibility with landscape orientations is uncertain, the frame’s earthy tones and practical design add sophistication and organization to any desk.

5. Introduce Nature-Inspired Wall Colors

Earthy tones on the wall draw inspiration from soil, rock, and sky. These versatile and timeless colors provide a sophisticated look while fostering a connection to nature, creating a serene and harmonious environment.

Designer: StoneCycling and Studio Nina van Bart

CornWall is an innovative, eco-friendly wall cladding made from organic corn cobs, heated to 150°C to form strong bonds. This process uses solar energy, reducing carbon footprints. Unlike traditional materials like ceramic or HPL, CornWall absorbs more CO2 and is 100% reusable due to its demountable anchoring system. Available in colors like Dark Blue, Mustard Yellow, and Terracotta Pink, CornWall offers a sustainable alternative that transforms waste into stylish, functional interior design.

6. Beautify with Woven Materials

Woven materials like rattan introduce earthy hues of brown and beige, while their intricate weaves and textures add warmth and enhance the organic feel of a space. They bring a handcrafted aesthetic that fosters a strong connection to nature.

Designers: Ching Cheng Chang and Xu Da Zzan

Rattan, known for its flexibility, durability, and water resistance, is traditionally used in woven baskets and rustic decor. Originating from palm species in Asia, Australia, and Africa, rattan adds warmth and texture to spaces, though it’s rarely seen in modern furniture. The Mua Lau Lounge Chair challenges this norm with its blend of rattan and bent metal piping. It uses rattan for visual appeal and as a cushion replacement, offering a unique springiness and comfort. Named after a Taiwanese treat, the chair combines a crisp outer shell with a plush interior, delivering both style and a surprisingly comfortable seating experience.

7. Add a Green Thumb

The varying shades of green from plants enrich the overall aesthetic, offering a fresh and lively experience that complements earthy tones. Additionally, colorful flowers provide vibrant pops of color, enhancing the space with natural beauty.

Designer: Camila Saulino and Alibek Atahanov

The ToThem planter is a modular vase system designed for small spaces, featuring a playful and integrated design with distinct, earthy-colored shapes. It organizes and nurtures multiple plants efficiently with a manual irrigation system and a water reuse feature for optimal watering and drainage. Ideal for herbs, succulents, and flowers, ToThem blends functionality with aesthetic appeal, transforming any compact space with its warm, earthy tones.

These tips will help you use earthy tones to evoke warmth, create a comfortable space and establish a connection with the natural world. Studies indicate that such hues are ideal for homes and workspaces, as they minimize stress and enhance focus and concentration.

The post How to Embrace Earthy Tones in Architecture and Interior Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Aesthetic speaker concept adds decorative value to your home entertainment setup

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As people become more aware of the role that sound plays in immersive content, the number of speakers in homes also begins to rise. This means that these audio equipment are starting to make their presence not just heard but also seen, and sometimes not in pleasing ways. Fortunately, manufacturers are also becoming more sensitive to this aspect of product design, and we’re seeing a growing number of speakers that extol aesthetics as much as audio quality, though the side effect of this trend means getting locked into a specific design the moment you make your purchase. This customizable speaker concept, on the other hand, offers some flexibility that not only lets you decide how the speaker will look but where you want to put it as well.

Designer: Eshant Kumbhakarn

Compared to TVs, the true value of speakers lies not in their appearance but in their audio output. Unfortunately, these products still take up physical space, and hiding them doesn’t exactly work because that can negatively affect the way sound travels. Some audio equipment brands try to disguise speakers as art objects or minimize their footprint as soundbars, but this speaker concept design tries to combine both ideas to deliver the best of both worlds.

Aura is a concept for a speaker panel that delivers audio in 360 degrees. Rather than pushing sound from the front as you might expect from a flat box, the actual speakers are located around the edges. Thanks to this design, it is possible to place Aura anywhere and in any orientation, whether vertically on a wall, horizontally below a TV, or even lying flat on a long meeting table.

To help make this flexibility more practical, Aura has a special feature that very few speakers have. It has physical controls as well as input ports on both long sides of the speaker, letting you control it directly regardless of the position or orientation. Admittedly, that does add a complication to the internal implementation of the speaker, but it’s not entirely impossible given today’s technology.

That alone already makes it notable, but Aura’s real value comes from its customizable and interchangeable front panel. In theory, this lets you select a design that would match the motif of the room or even the material of the table on which it will be placed. Whether it’s a marble-like finish, wood, or a typical gray mesh, Aura puts the owner in control of how the speaker looks and blends into the background. Even better, you can always change that panel when you change your interior design, prolonging the speaker’s usefulness for years to come.

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100 Years of Delta Airlines: A First Look at the New Cabin Interiors

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Delta Air Lines is embracing a bold new chapter in design, one that puts passenger comfort and aesthetics at the heart of its vision for the next century of flight. Rolling out this fall, the new cabin interiors will first appear on the Boeing 757, setting the stage for what Delta promises to be a cohesive, elevated experience across its fleet. By early 2025, the Airbus A350 will follow suit, giving long-haul travelers the same refined ambiance. This overhaul aims to blend functionality with style, creating a space that feels less like a mode of transportation and more like a curated environment, thoughtfully designed to make the journey as important as the destination.

Designer: Delta Airlines

Delta’s redesign isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach—it carefully caters to the unique needs of each cabin tier, ensuring that every passenger, from the front of the plane to the back, feels the difference. For those flying Delta One, the airline’s most premium offering, the updates bring a sense of sanctuary, with privacy dividers and lie-flat beds that have been reimagined with richer materials and softer finishes. Delta Premium Select sees enhancements with deeper recline and added space, paired with a refreshed design that includes plush memory foam seating and upgraded amenities, bridging the gap between comfort and luxury. First Class also benefits from these changes, offering an elevated experience with updated seating that’s both supportive and refined, making short and medium-haul flights more enjoyable. Meanwhile, Delta Comfort+ and the Main Cabin get their own share of the improvements, from improved seat ergonomics to a fresh look and feel that emphasizes comfort even in the more budget-conscious sections.

Seating has become more than just a place to sit—it’s now a space to sink into. Delta’s updated seats feature memory foam cushions wrapped in breathable engineered leather, striking a balance between durability and comfort. These aren’t your average airplane seats; they are tailored to support relaxation during those cross-country jaunts or quick hops across international borders. The Premium Select and First Class seats get a notable upgrade, but Delta has also spread the love across other cabins, ensuring that the plush feel and attention to detail extend throughout the plane. It’s a design ethos built on extensive passenger feedback, an effort to take the little things that matter—like seat comfort—and elevate them to an art form.

Lighting plays a starring role in Delta’s refreshed interiors, bringing a sense of rhythm to the in-flight experience. Picture this: as you board, the cabin is bathed in a warm, welcoming glow, easing you into the transition from the bustling terminal to your personal space in the sky. The lights shift as the flight progresses—soft and warm for that mid-flight meal, shifting to amber tones that mimic a sunset when it’s time to sleep. Delta’s lighting design is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating a sense of time and place, gently coaxing passengers into rest or wakefulness, depending on the phase of the flight. It’s the kind of detail that shows Delta is thinking about how every moment onboard can be made just a bit more comfortable.

But this transformation is more than skin-deep. Delta’s use of colors and materials reflects a commitment to a serene, polished environment. The cabin design introduces a palette that is both warm and refined, incorporating natural materials like wool alongside nods to Delta’s storied history with subtle heritage colors. From the Infinite Grid motif on bulkheads that hints at Delta’s expansive global network, to the Celestial Sky pattern that evokes the feeling of soaring above the clouds, every design choice feels intentional, each detail a quiet nod to the art of travel. Delta’s brand isn’t just stamped onto the plane; it’s woven into every fabric, etched into every surface, creating a continuity that invites passengers to feel at home.

Even the lavatories get their moment in the spotlight. Delta has transformed these often-overlooked spaces with sleek, modern finishes. Think fresh Azure Blue cabinets and walls featuring the Celestial Sky design—a reminder that even at 35,000 feet, style shouldn’t be an afterthought. The flooring is smooth and easy to clean, ensuring a spotless experience from nose to tail. It’s all part of Delta’s vision to leave no corner untouched, no detail unrefined. This attention to the little things speaks volumes about the airline’s commitment to creating a cohesive, high-end experience from the front of the cabin to the back.

Delta’s design refresh isn’t just about making a splash; it’s about setting a new standard in airline interiors, where every detail serves a purpose, and comfort is engineered into the very fabric of the plane. By starting with the Boeing 757 and expanding to the A350, Delta is methodically bringing this new look to life, ensuring that each update delivers on its promise. And while the transformation will take time, the approach is a calculated one—rolling out improvements gradually means Delta can adapt and fine-tune as they gather feedback, making each step a little smoother than the last.

As Delta marks its 100th anniversary, this redesign feels like a statement of intent. It’s about looking forward, anticipating what travelers want before they even know they want it, and delivering an experience that’s as thoughtfully crafted as it is comfortable. Delta’s new interiors are a nod to where the airline has been, but more importantly, they are a preview of where it’s going—toward a future where every flight, regardless of the route, offers a space that feels as inviting as it is functional. And if all goes according to plan, stepping into a Delta cabin will feel like entering a place where design, comfort, and the joy of travel converge, each time you take to the skies.

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Governors Point is the Ultimate Eco-Luxury Escape You’ll Wish You Lived In

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Governors Point, an exclusive residential enclave, sits on a pristine 125-acre peninsula in Washington’s Salish Sea. Envisioned by acclaimed architect Omer Arbel, this unique community offers an exquisite mix of luxury living and deep respect for the environment. The development features 16 custom waterfront homes that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Each home is crafted to celebrate the raw beauty of the area, ensuring it complements rather than overpowers the natural setting.

Designer: Omer Arbel

Image credit: Governors Point

Governors Point’s history adds depth to its current form. Originally, the site was slated for over 300 homes and multiple marinas, but a transformative partnership between design entrepreneur Randy Bishop and the Whatcom Land Trust shifted its destiny. Their focus was on conservation, turning Governors Point into a haven for both residents and nature.

Exterior Design: Blending With Nature

The exterior of each home at Governors Point reflects Omer Arbel’s innovative approach to merging architecture with nature. The homes are placed strategically along the peninsula, with some landward facades partially buried to reduce their visual presence and make them part of the landscape.

Image credit: Governors Point

On the west-facing side, a “cloudlike” exterior skin made from cedar burl offcuts adds a striking visual feature. These cedar pieces, described as “boulder-shaped modules,” are mounted on metal standoffs and gently sway, creating a kinetic effect. Over time, moss and lichens will grow on these surfaces, adding a living, evolving element to the design.

Roofs are designed to allow the forest to grow over them, making the homes seem like natural extensions of the landscape. This design choice also offers energy efficiency, as the forest provides natural insulation.

Paths leading to the homes are discreet, guiding residents through nature in a way that contrasts the enclosed feeling of the homes—often opening up dramatically to views over the cliffs. These paths are set between retaining walls, enhancing the contrast between entering underground spaces and emerging to cliff-edge views. Landscaping is restricted to just 3,000 square feet per 1.5-acre lot, ensuring that most of the natural flora is preserved. This careful planning maintains the native beauty of Governors Point, keeping ecological integrity at the forefront.

Image credit: Governors Point

The design also respects the existing kayak route along the shoreline, ensuring that the natural recreational pathways remain unobstructed and inviting for kayakers.

Interior Design: Seamless Flow Indoors and Out

The interior of each Governors Point home reflects Arbel’s commitment to creating harmony between luxury and nature. The homes are capped at 2,900 square feet, maintaining a modest size that fits within the environment.

Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows bring in sweeping views of the Salish Sea and San Juan Islands, flooding rooms with natural light. These windows create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, making the landscape a natural part of the home’s interior.

The living room design beautifully showcases this philosophy, featuring woven leather chairs and a low-profile marble coffee table. The living area opens directly to the outdoors, framed by boulder-like modules connecting the home to the natural world. The use of earthy tones and tactile fabrics throughout the living room maintains a sense of warmth and cohesion, while built-in shelves add functionality without overwhelming the space.

The materials used throughout the homes, like locally sourced wood and stone, add warmth and texture, while low-VOC paints and reclaimed wood floors keep the building process eco-friendly.

Fixtures from Arbel’s design firm, Bocci, are featured throughout, including custom glass pendants that bring a unique glow to the rooms. The collaboration between Omer Arbel and Bocci goes back nearly two decades, allowing Bocci’s luxurious finishes to integrate seamlessly into Arbel’s architectural projects. Skylights and open floor plans ensure that natural light fills every corner, enhancing the spaciousness while connecting each room to the outdoors.

Image credit: Governors Point

In the kitchen, an elegant concrete finish defines the space, with natural textures continuing to enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This description is based on conceptual design elements rather than a confirmed source from the images or documents provided. Large windows frame views of the sea, while the design focuses on subtle built-in features, such as hidden storage and a minimalist aesthetic, ensuring the kitchen is functional and stylish.

The Parametric Approach: Architecture With Variation

Omer Arbel takes a parametric design approach at Governors Point—meaning the homes are crafted within a set of guidelines that allow for natural variations. Each home follows core principles but adapts to the specific conditions of its location.

Image credit: Governors Point

For example, cedar burl offcuts on the west-facing facades are arranged within set parameters but come together in unique compositions. This gives every home its personality while maintaining a consistent architectural language across the community.

Arbel’s process involves setting constraints and letting materials and site-specific factors guide the final design. This approach allows the architecture to adapt to the environment, making each home a reflection of its surroundings.

It turns construction into a creative, evolving process that celebrates unpredictability and uniqueness. Arbel also extends this parametric philosophy to interior fixtures, using materials like copper and glass to adapt to the living spaces’ flow.

Image credit: Governors Point

The master bedroom continues the organic design language with a feature wall that mimics the boulder-shaped modules seen outside. The furniture, including the bed and integrated shelving, balances the ruggedness of natural materials and refined craftsmanship. Custom Bocci lighting adds a sculptural quality, casting soft light that enhances the serene atmosphere.

Image credit: Governors Point

A Commitment to Sustainability

Governors Point is a model of sustainable architecture, with 98 of the 125 acres set aside as a nature reserve managed by the Whatcom Land Trust. This area features a 2.5-mile public access loop trail, allowing residents and visitors to explore the peninsula’s stunning natural beauty, including access to beaches and viewpoints on both sides.

Image credit: Governors Point

Keeping most of the land as a nature reserve helps protect local ecosystems, balancing development and conservation.

Each residence is capped at 2,900 square feet, with an additional 1,100 square feet allowed for garages or outbuildings. By limiting the size of the homes and restricting manicured landscaping, the development ensures that the natural surroundings remain untouched as much as possible.

Using sustainable materials, such as repurposed cedar burl offcuts for exterior cladding, reduces waste and promotes regional resource efficiency. Governors Point also bans using pesticides and harmful chemicals, protecting the local flora and fauna.

Image credit: Governors Point

Energy efficiency is key in architectural planning, with large windows designed to optimize passive solar heating while offering stunning views. The project maintains a low-density footprint by limiting the development to only 16 homes on the 27 developed acres, reducing habitat disruption and preserving wildlife corridors.

The design blends the homes into the landscape with natural features like buried facades and forest-covered roofs, setting a new standard for eco-conscious luxury.

The post Governors Point is the Ultimate Eco-Luxury Escape You’ll Wish You Lived In first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sailing in Style: Designing Yacht Interiors with Elegance and Sophistication

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Creating yacht interiors involves the integration of luxury, innovation, and practicality to create a functional and elegant space, that seamlessly combines interior design, product design, and naval architecture. Each design element plays an important role in enhancing the onboard luxury experience and ensuring exceptional performance across diverse sea conditions. In yacht design, prioritizing functionality involves integrating innovative features, efficient layouts, and practical amenities to enhance usability, comfort, and performance during various cruising and leisure scenarios. These design principles form the foundation of yacht interiors.

Image courtesy of: RossHelen

1. Sophisticated Aesthetics

In luxury yacht design, it is important to prioritize opulence, comfort, and extravagant amenities to ensure a high-end experience for passengers. Futuristic and sophisticated aesthetics can be achieved by integrating sleek lines, glass facades, and cutting-edge technology. A crucial element in crafting an opulent onboard ambiance is integrating luxury yacht features like spacious cabins, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and custom furnishings tailored to suit different tastes.

Designer: Samuele Errico Piccarini

The Pininfarina Capitolo catamaran exudes luxury and airiness with its transparent hull, offering stylish leisure and secluded relaxation spaces. Designed by Pininfarina in collaboration with automotive and yacht designers, it caters to the preferences of influential clients like Ryu Cardoso, featuring an open-plan layout flooded with light and panoramic views of the sea and ensuring a sleek and unparalleled leisure experience on serene waters.

2. Maximize Space

Space optimization is paramount on yachts due to their limited square footage, ensuring efficient space management without sacrificing style. This involves embracing multi-functional design principles, where furniture serves more than one purpose.

Design: TISG

Explore the opulent interior of ‘This Is It’, the largest motor catamaran soon to grace the seas. Crafted by The Italian Sea Group’s Tecnomar brand, this 43.5-meter marvel is poised for a spectacular debut at the Monaco Yacht Show. With an exterior reminiscent of mythical sea creatures, its meticulously engineered design enhances hydrodynamic efficiency, while expansive glass surfaces not only elevate aesthetics but also reduce weight, contributing to fuel efficiency. Hosting up to 12 guests, the catamaran boasts well-lit cabins with skylights, connected to terraces overlooking lush vertical gardens. The main lounge seamlessly transitions to an outdoor space featuring a dining area, bar, game zone, and pool. An upper deck sanctuary offers a sauna, sensorial shower, and playroom.

3. Optimize Storage

Given the limited space on a yacht, it’s important to make the most of available storage. Custom furniture offering built-in storage solutions, such as storage beds, ottomans, and sofas with storage compartments, can help keep belongings organized while maximizing space.

Image courtesy of: wirestock

4. Pay Attention to the Flooring

The flooring in yacht interiors is essential, as it must be both visually appealing and functional. Selecting the appropriate flooring can instantly improve the design and create a warmer atmosphere. Opting for premium materials like teak, marble, or high-quality faux wood finishes ensures durability in a compact space.

Image courtesy of: Mint_Images

5. Maximize Natural Light

Utilizing natural light aboard enhances the yacht’s environment. Strategically placed windows, skylights, and open layouts not only adds a sense of spaciousness but also create a more uplifting ambiance for passengers and guests.

Designer: Lazzarini Design

This innovative superyacht by Lazzarini Design challenges norms with its hollowed-out center, offering a unique sun deck and visual allure. Spanning 69 meters with three decks concealed within, it’s speculated to feature a hybrid propulsion system, possibly integrating solar panels. Despite space constraints, the expansive deck provides ample room for socializing and panoramic views, making it the perfect choice for those seeking attention-worthy aesthetics on serene waters.

6. Indoor-Outdoor Integration

Yacht design should blend indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly, ensuring a smooth transition from inside to out. Compact features like foldable glass doors, expansive decks, and designated outdoor lounging areas create a fluid connection between the yacht’s interior and the sea, fostering a feeling of freedom and relaxation for guests within a compact setting.

Designer: Ali Cam

This ultra-luxurious superyacht, known as The Arc, stands out with its lower-level deck adorned with panoramic glass walls. Designed for discerning individuals seeking ultimate comfort and style, The Arc features organic contours juxtaposed with sharp edges, resembling a hypercar of the sea. Its three levels serve distinct purposes, with the lower deck providing breathtaking sea views through transparent glass facades. On the second level, guests can bask in the sun on an open deck, while the top level features a swimming pool and relaxation area, with the main sail serving as a focal point. The yacht’s design theme of black and titanium grey tones exudes luxury and speed, with the lower-level deck offering both open sea views and protection from the elements, ensuring unparalleled comfort in any weather condition.

7. Integrate Intelligent Technology

Adding smart technology like modern entertainment systems, automated lighting, advanced navigation tools, and safety features improves the onboard experience, ensuring comfort and convenience for passengers.

Image courtesy of: wirestock

8. Custom Detailing

A yacht project should reflect the owners’ personalities through personalized touches, achieved by collaborating closely with skilled artisans and designers. A balance in shapes, colors, and volumes is essential in yacht interiors to ensure elegance and comfort. Additionally, integrating vintage accessories can create a cozy atmosphere with a lived-in vibe.

Designer: Max Zhivov

The Drakkar S, an 85-foot superyacht by Max Zhivov, offers smartphone-controlled autonomous sailing reminiscent of a Tesla for the oceans. Inspired by Viking longships, it features advanced autopilot and AI navigation systems, controllable via a smartphone app. Powered by solar panels for emission-free travel, it integrates amenities like a beach club, dining salon, and spacious cabins for eight guests, promising a seamless and sustainable maritime adventure.

9. Eco-Conscious Design

With an increase in awareness about the environment, yacht design needs to focus on sustainability. By using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and responsible waste management, the yacht can reduce its environmental impact without sacrificing luxury or style.

Designers: Zaha Hadid Architects and Rossinavi

Zaha Hadid Architects has designed the Oneiric, a luxury yacht powered entirely by solar energy. This innovative twin-hulled catamaran features a fluid design and solar-paneled roof, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Developed in partnership with Rossinavi, it offers spacious interiors and energy-efficient multihulls. The yacht’s hybrid power system allows for silent, emissions-free cruising and can accommodate up to 8 guests and 6 crew members. With its sustainable technology and elegant design, the Oneiric redefines luxury yachting.

10. Material Choices

Using high-quality materials is crucial for crafting a luxurious and durable yacht. Premium materials like fine wood, luxurious fabrics, and lavish finishes add elegance to every part of the yacht, enhancing the onboard experience. Strong, UV-resistant fabrics and rugs, alongside premium upholstery like leather or marine-grade fabrics, enhance comfort and style in yacht interiors, ideal for relaxation and entertainment. It’s advisable to avoid using metal in the interiors as it rusts quickly in salt-laden air.

Designer: Waterstudio.NL

The Arkup 75, the world’s premier solar-powered luxury yacht, doubles as a floating villa, offering unparalleled opulence and sustainability. Developed by Waterstudio.NL and Arkup, it features a 75-foot length and 4,350 sqft living space across two levels, complete with four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a spacious kitchen. Equipped with solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system, it enables off-grid living while withstanding extreme weather conditions. Designed for eco-conscious buyers, it emphasizes energy efficiency, connectivity, and safety, ensuring a luxurious and environmentally friendly lifestyle on the water.

The post Sailing in Style: Designing Yacht Interiors with Elegance and Sophistication first appeared on Yanko Design.

Embrace Calm With “Quietude”: HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 Color of the Year

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The 2025 Color Collection of the Year from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams is “Naturally Refined,” with Quietude (HGSW6212) named the Color of the Year. The “Naturally Refined” palette offers a luxurious and cozy feel through 10 versatile shades that can be mixed and matched to create a harmonious design scheme within the interiors.

Designer: Sherwin-Williams

What is HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams?

Introduced in 2011, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams merges HGTV’s design acumen with the renowned paint quality of Sherwin-Williams, which was established in 1866 and is based in Cleveland, Ohio. Sherwin-Williams is a leading name in the global paint and coatings industry while HGTV is known for its home design expertise, and collaborates to offer a range of premium paints and curated Color Collections for a harmonious home aesthetic. This exclusive collection is available solely at Lowe’s locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

The “Naturally Refined” collection, with its 2025 Color of the Year “Quietude,” delivers a calming sage green and timeless elegance that is perfect for creating a tranquil atmosphere.

The different colors in the “Naturally Reined” collection include:

1. Snowbound (HGSW7004)

Snowbound is a warm, sophisticated white, that enhances natural light and works well on walls and ceilings. It is a versatile color that complements bold and subtle accents and creates a balanced atmosphere in any space.

2. Quietude (HGSW6212)

Quietude, a soft green with subtle blue undertones, is ideal for creating a tranquil and soothing environment. It can be used to enhance relaxation or achieve a calming effect. This shade works well on accent walls, as well as in textiles and decor.

3. Convivial Yellow (HGSW6393)

Convivial Yellow is a pale yellow hue with warm undertones, which adds a bright and welcoming touch to your home. Perfect for kitchens, breakfast areas, and living spaces, it infuses warmth into the common areas and children’s rooms.

4. Spiced Cider (HGSW7702)

Spiced Cider is a rust-inspired hue that adds warmth and depth to home decor. It can be used on accent walls, furniture, or textiles to create a cozy atmosphere and pairs well with neutral tones for a balanced look in living areas, dining rooms, and home offices.

5. Nomadic Desert (HGSW6107)

Nomadic Desert is a warm tan hue with blushed undertones that create a cozy atmosphere. It can be used on the walls in living rooms and bedrooms, providing a warm backdrop that complements furniture and textiles

6. Stucco (HGSW7569)

Stucco, with its elegant linen-like neutrality, creates a polished look on the walls throughout your home. This shade can be used to enhance architectural elements such as trim and molding while adding a classic touch to both furniture and textiles.

7. Delft (HGSW9134)

Delft is a mid-tone blue with a neutral undertone, making it an interesting choice for both traditional and contemporary interiors. It works well on accent walls and harmonizes with warm and cool hues, making it ideal for furniture, upholstery, and accessories.

8. Rocky River (HGSW6215)

Rocky River integrates a deep green blend of moss and emerald, creating a dramatic and calming effect when used on accent walls. This color elevates the look of the furniture and textiles, adding a natural, elegant touch to your decor.

9. Sequin (HGSW6394)

Sequin adds a warm, uplifting glow with its goldenrod undertones to accent walls, living cum dining areas, and kitchens, and creates a cheerful environment in children’s rooms.

10. Nutshell (HGSW6040)

Nutshell is a warm chocolate brown color that, enhances spaces with its cozy tone when used on accent walls, furniture, and flooring. Additionally, it pairs well with light hues for a balanced aesthetic and is suitable for trims and moldings.

Introducing Quietude (HGSW6212) as the 2025 Color of the Year

Quietude combines a cool sage green with a touch of blue to craft a soothing and serene space. Suitable for indoor and outdoor areas, its timeless charm inspires us to embrace a slower lifestyle and appreciate the simple moments in life.

Explore some cutting-edge products that embody the essence of Quietude.

• Earphones cum Earrings

Designers: Rick Kim & Milmul Studio

The YoonJy Earphones blend style and functionality by integrating earphones with jewelry. Featuring a sleek metal hoop that doubles as an earring, these earphones merge minimalistic design with a harmonious color scheme, allowing users to enjoy both accessories without compromise.

• Travel Suitcases

Designer: Monos

For dedicated travelers, Mono offers top-notch suitcases inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘Mono no aware.’ Their luggage combines style and functionality, featuring designs like the cupcake-inspired Monos x Magnolia Bakery and the sophisticated Terrazzo. Constructed with aerospace-grade polycarbonate and 360° spinner wheels, Monos suitcases include anti-microbial, recycled polyester linings, TSA-approved locks, and adjustable handles. The Carry-On Pro models add a fold-out compartment for convenient storage of electronics and essentials.

• Eco-Friendly Furniture

Designer: Philippe Starck and Kartell (and A.I.)

The A.I. Collection by Kartell and Philippe Starck combines artificial intelligence with design to produce eco-friendly furniture in earthy colors. The line features the versatile A.I. Lounge, the regal H.H.H Her Highest Highness chair, and the minimalist A.I. Console, all optimized for sustainability and reduced waste through A.I.-driven prototyping and planning.

• Mobile Phones

Designer: HONOR

At MWC 2024, HONOR unveiled the Magic6 Pro smartphone and the MagicBook Pro 16 AI PC. The Magic6 Pro features advanced AI-driven photography with a 180MP Telephoto Camera, a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera, and a variable aperture 50MP main camera. It integrates a 6.8-inch LTPO Eye Comfort Display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a long-lasting Silicon-carbon Battery with rapid charging. The MagicBook Pro 16 enhances cross-OS compatibility with AI.

• Headphones

Designer: Fairphone

The Fairbuds XL wireless headphones from Fairphone feature a modular design that allows users to replace parts for extended use. They offer active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and up to 30 hours of playback with advanced 40 mm dynamic drivers for high-quality sound. Made from recycled materials, including vegan cushions, they come in Green or Black and support both wired and wireless connections.

• Industrial Furniture

Designer: Lockengloet

Lockengeloet, a Hamburg-based studio, transforms discarded oil barrels into unique, urban-industrial furniture. Sourced from the Port of Hamburg and never used for oil, these barrels are upcycled into coffee tables, nightstands, and minibars, with scrap metal repurposed into wall clocks. The studio uses recycled materials for about 80% of its products and operates with renewable energy from Greenpeace.

• Recycled Materials

Designer: POLIMAIR

The Beluga Chair, designed by Arthur Gaudenz and crafted from recycled French fishing nets, is a groundbreaking sustainable furniture piece. Its mono-material design eliminates the need for additional components, reducing waste and CO2 emissions.

• Accessories

Click Here to Buy Now: Jewel Vase Mirror Stand ($59)

This versatile mirror serves as both an accessory stand and a vase, adding natural beauty to your space. Its minimalist, polyhedron design enhances any item placed before it, from a single flower to other small treasures, and pouring water into the vase becomes a calming ritual. Crafted from durable bioplastic with a significant amount of rice husks, this unique piece brings elegance and eco-friendly charm to any desk, table, or shelf.

In addition, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams now offers an easier way to choose paint colors through a partnership with Palazzo, an AI visualization tool co-founded by Venus Williams. All you need to do is upload a photo to see how colors from the 2025 Color Collection of the Year look in your space.

The post Embrace Calm With “Quietude”: HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 Color of the Year first appeared on Yanko Design.