1.
House with Ghost Roof and Garden / OOOarchitecture
This wooden family home in Inage Ward, Chiba City, Japan, has a unique design that really makes it stand out. It features an L-shaped, single-story layout that wraps around a central garden, which is more than just a pretty outdoor area. The garden is central to the home’s living experience, allowing the family to connect with nature in a meaningful way.
The design emphasizes the garden's role, making it a dynamic space that changes with the seasons and weather. Imagine how the light shifts throughout the day, how the wind rustles the leaves, and how rain brings a fresh scent to the air. It’s like living in a constantly evolving environment that keeps the family engaged with the natural world.
This thoughtful approach to architecture not only enhances the home's aesthetic but also promotes a lifestyle that values outdoor interaction. It’s a beautiful reminder of how a well-designed space can foster a deeper connection to our surroundings, encouraging the family to enjoy every moment spent there.
2.
Driftwood Residence / Nestcraft Architecture
Driftwood is a unique 2,900-square-foot home designed to accommodate three generations of a family, all on an irregularly shaped urban lot that spans 11 cents. The architects aimed to blend the familiar comforts of traditional homes with a fresh, modern take that suits a tropical setting.
The design focuses on creating open, airy spaces that promote connection among family members while still allowing for privacy when needed. Large windows and thoughtful landscaping help integrate the indoors with the outdoors, embracing the natural surroundings.
The house features various communal areas, encouraging family gatherings, while also incorporating private nooks for individual relaxation. This balance of shared and personal spaces reflects a deep understanding of multi-generational living.
Overall, Driftwood stands out not just for its size or layout, but for how it reinterprets the essence of home in a contemporary context, making it a warm and inviting space for all generations to thrive together.
3.
NH Residence Renovation / Dhanie & Sal
Dhanie and Sal have taken on a fascinating renovation project in East Jakarta, transforming a row house while preserving its original charm. The design features terracotta-clad volumes that not only enhance the aesthetic but also connect beautifully with the surrounding architecture. This thoughtful approach ensures that the renovation feels like a natural extension of the neighborhood, rather than a stark contrast.
The project spans an area of 291 square meters and is set to be completed in 2024. The architects, Dhanie Syawalia and Salman Rimaldhi, have focused on maintaining the character of the existing structure while introducing modern elements that elevate the living space. It’s all about balance—honoring the past while embracing the future.
The use of terracotta is particularly striking, giving the home a warm, inviting look that fits well within the faculty housing community. It’s a great reminder of how thoughtful design can enhance a space without losing its essence. Overall, this renovation is shaping up to be a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation, making it a noteworthy addition to the area.
4.
Casual Store, a new retail space in São Paulo, elevates minimalism to theatrical effect
As you approach, the building might seem solid, but the clever use of transparency draws you in, offering glimpses of what’s inside. Once you step in, the atmosphere shifts to a calm, cocoon-like environment, with light colors and clean surfaces that showcase the furniture beautifully. It’s like a modern take on the classic gallery setup, where the products take center stage.
The design isn’t just about looks; it’s also highly functional. The layout is governed by a single geometric order, ensuring everything flows smoothly. At the heart of the store is a freestanding core that facilitates movement and adaptability for various displays and events. This gives the space a light, pavilion-like feel, making it perfect for exhibitions and blending retail with a theatrical experience.
Overall, Casual Store is a fresh addition to the São Paulo design scene, showcasing how architecture can enhance the shopping experience while remaining flexible and inviting. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!
5.
The Giant's Garden Daycare / design CHOU
The Giant's Garden is a unique children's activity space that draws inspiration from Oscar Wilde's enchanting tale, The Selfish Giant. In the story, the garden is a magical place where winter holds sway until children are allowed to play, bringing spring back to life. This concept has been transformed into a real-life garden in the city, designed to be a vibrant hub for kids to engage with nature and creativity.
At The Giant's Garden, children can immerse themselves in hands-on activities like exploring soil and shaping dough, encouraging them to connect with the earth and express their creativity. It’s a wonderful way for kids to learn and grow while having fun. Meanwhile, parents can take a breather, enjoying a moment of peace nearby, which is so important in our busy lives.
The space aims to foster a sense of community and joy, reminding us of the simple pleasures of childhood and the beauty of nature. It’s not just about play; it’s about creating memories and nurturing relationships in a serene environment. The Giant's Garden truly embodies the spirit of togetherness and the magic that happens when children are free to explore and imagine.
6.
BE OOO: The First Curated Index of Wellness Retreats, Festivals and Parties
What makes BE OOO stand out is its commitment to quality over quantity. Each event is hand-picked by editors who really know their stuff, ensuring that every listing is worth your attention. You’ll find essential details like dates, locations, and prices, all written in a way that captures the vibe of the event, so you can decide if it’s right for you.
An app is on the way for both iPhone and Android users, and there's already a live demo available. When you open the app, it invites you to step away from your daily grind and explore what’s out there. You’ll see profiles of the healers and practitioners involved, along with full event pages and a handy map view to help you visualize your options.
The whole idea is about curation — no automated feeds or pay-to-list gimmicks. If it’s in the Index, it’s because it truly deserves to be there. So, if you're looking to escape and recharge, BE OOO might just be your new go-to resource for planning your next adventure.