In recent years, the word "green" has become an increasingly popular word in our vocabulary -- both personally and professionally. Many associations are working to conceive new ideas that will help in preserving our environment. In particular, one way to accomplish this is by promoting the use of environmentally friendly products.
For 150 years, a classic 18th century Italian villa -- known simply as "Villa Novare" -- has been a worldwide symbol for the Bertani Winery and its renowned collection of products. And inside the winery itself, the abundant stonework has actually played a useful role in the winemaking process.
Chien Chung (Didi) Pei, AIA, and his younger brother Li Chung (Sandi) Pei, AIA, not only share a family bond, but they also both have a passion for architecture. As a result, they set out on their own in 1992 and opened Pei Partnership Architects in New York City. Before beginning their own endeavor, however, the two gained valuable experience in designing large-scale buildings while working under the tutelage of their father, I.M. Pei, for more than a decade.
Springfield, an international chain of stores based in Europe, Asia, Canada and Mexico, has recently launched a new location in Madrid, Spain. Establishing a prototype design that will be the focus of its other locations, Principal-in-Charge, Ken Nisch, AIA of JGA in Southfield, MI, revealed that the goal for "Springfield Spain" was to capture the essence of "in city" living with a loft or studio space at the heart of the thinking. Porcelanosa Ferroker tile was therefore chosen for its refined rustic finish, yet tailored proportions and detail.
Kicking off its preseason training in a new $20 million-practice facility designed by Ellerbe Becket and located in Independence, OH, the Cleveland Cavaliers have already found what Principal-in-Charge, Doug Beichley, calls the team's "home away from home." The use of natural materials, combined with the wooded site, provides a residential feel for the players and staff, according the architect. Besides achieving a rustic contemporary look, the goal was to create the best training facility in the NBA, which meant making sure the space was functional.
With interior design, whether the space is a large corporate office or a small-scaled residence, it is important for architects and designers to combine functionality with aesthetics, and often this concept is generated through the use of stone and tile materials. The limitless amount of product choices on today's market enables these spaces to be practical in use, while still being unique and pleasing to the eye.
The 25th edition of Cersaie, an international exhibition of ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishings, took place this fall at the Bologna Exhibition Centre in Bologna, Italy. The 2007 rendition set three new records, including the figures for total visitors (91,935), foreign visitors (27,121) and Italian and foreign journalists (632).
I know that this has been said before, but the quality and aesthetics of the stone and tile products on the market today have reached a new level. While stone remains timeless, and its appearance and technical qualities haven't necessarily changed, new finishes and format sizes offer more diversity. Suppliers are also going to great lengths to continually introduce exotic materials that are being newly extracted in countries around the world. Meanwhile, in the tile sector, we are witnessing an explosion of new colors, sizes and textures. Glass mosaics, metallic pieces -- and even porcelain designed to resemble hardwood or fabrics -- all contribute to inspiring designs.
While stone and tile remain a staple material for traditional residential spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms, they are also more commonly being used for other applications like large-scale fireplaces and outdoor water elements, among others. It seems homeowners today are more willing to spend money on aesthetically pleasing designs, and therefore, they are using stone and tile for more creative and elaborate sections and features of the home.
“Metropolitan sophistication” was the drive behind the design for Masa restaurant, which is located in Target Plaza in downtown Minneapolis, MN. While the authentic Mexican cuisine stimulates the palates of patrons, the restaurant’s interior design is just as vibrant. And one of the main elements of the upscale eatery is a shimmering “wave” wall adorned with tiny iridescent glass mosaic tile. The glass mosaic pieces were also incorporated into the floor design, further contributing to the unique and elegant character of the dining establishment.
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