Design Concept – Shapes
This design concept is based on the vital importance we ascribe to the use of materials and the links between the form and the material; the space and functionality. By applying design customization for the individual client, we have created elements, which acquire a different, special form. The result is a precise, carefully evoked experience of the space, rich in a spectrum of forms that meld together in absolute harmony – Static forms juxtaposed with moving, dynamic forms; a rounded, direct, abstract shapeliness. Linear forms contrast with geometric shapes; stately proportioned forms alongside very small, intimate shapes. We continue our exploration of special, natural materials and our constant search for new ways to use them. The need for new ways to work with and think about materials leads us to the introduction of natural materials expressed using simple elements such as light, form, texture, color and more.
The Approach to the Space: An apartment with many columns and beams was transformed into a broad, open space. The space is divided up to provide maximum openness inside and in terms of its connections with the outside to create a feeling of space larger than the apartment’s actual dimensions.
Composition: The integration of a number of elements with presence in the space, designed with specific emphasis on precise, clean form, creating a synergetic, harmonious composition and their emphasis using light and shade. Creating exciting links between the forms and the materials, textures, objects and art.
Kitchen island – A spacious island we designed with an oval shape is in the center of the public space. It includes gentle touches of brass and the cladding on the curving cupboard fronts is wood painted in a coal-grey epoxy tone together with a blue tinted pigment. The island top is brown marble with light colored veins and the light fitting we designed to hang above the island is also brass, pressed into an oval shape.
The central wall - Additional storage units in the kitchen are fitted into the central wall, which runs across the entire width of the public space and also serves the needs of the living area. The front of those units has been designed with a geometric texture and it creates the separation between the public and private areas. An entryway leads into the private wing, which is divided into two master suites, one on each side of the entranceway. The geometric texture on the central wall continues on into the parents’ wing and it also encircles the bathroom in that wing. The sensations created by the natural, colorful materials are also felt in the private wing.
Curved partitions – We designed the steel and glass modular partition behind the island to create a border between the public space and the study. Each individual curved unit turns on an axis and can be adjusted to any chosen angle. Reflecting surfaces covering the units create a sense of movement in the space and at the same time, they emphasize the shapes and forms in the apartment; objects, elements and art are seen in different ways and from different angles. The mirrors also multiply the light and provide vignettes of the urban landscape visible from the apartment.
Bookshelves – We designed, elegant, floating, black painted metal and brass bookshelves, positioned next to the dining area. We wanted the bookshelves to be dynamic and so the brass shelves can be moved, enabling re-organization of the books and the other elements on the shelves. The surface on the dining table is blackened oak veneer with curved edges and above it, the three light fittings are a unique composition comprising concave Carrera marble and geometric glass forms.
Only natural materials emphasizing the strengths of the natural materials used. We use natural materials in every project. Those natural materials are worked by specialist artisans and their richness forms a precise, composite whole. We ensure that all the strengths of those materials are expressed. The three main materials we used in this apartment form a cascade of metals, woods and marbles combined as a range of materials, displayed as surfaces and as significant masses with different finishes. Together they create a work of art comprising layers and blocks, small details and broad statements; a spectrum of textures.
Each natural material has its own language in perfect synergy with the distinct language of every other material. When selecting the processes through which natural materials are implemented, we feel that it is vital to make minimal use of “readymade” and we accentuate manufacturing processes employing precious artisanal inputs displaying the artistic value in the traditional skills found locally. The results express our enthusiasm and respect for natural materials and our never-ending efforts in the examination of boundaries and to go beyond the boundaries of natural materials.
We believe in: “First Concept, then Design. That means: Deep, creative thought as the precursor to the planning and design stage; thorough examination of the space and the environment; full exploration of the client’s program, character and lifestyle with the aim of creating a personal design that matches their individual nature and circumstances. That customization process is followed until the crystallization of a tight, design concept unique to the project and only then do we begin working on the actual design. Our commitment to creativity, design and love for people spurs us towards original, creative thinking that challenges us in every new project. Throughout the process, we seek the different, without falling into the convenient trap that is the obvious and the safe. The acute need for original thinking creates the unique difference instilled into every project.
The results express our enthusiasm and respect for natural materials and our never ending efforts in the examination of boundaries and to go beyond the boundaries of natural materials. All that comes together in our design approach, which is based on “honest design”, emphasizing the purity and practicality in natural materials. This is organic design inserting nature itself into the space to create a feeling and a look that resonates with vitality and freshness. Our designs are minimalist, with clean lines and forms based on precision and careful tuning of the fine details. We will always aim to create a design that is timeless, creative, fresh and modern. Very importantly, our designs are highly germane to the convenience modern lifestyles can provide.
