Window of opportunity - "Clerestory windows"

Hola :-)

Today I am going to talk about an architectural feature that I truly believe is totally underestimated, underused and quite neglected - 'Clerestory Windows'.

Originating way back from the Egyptian temples, clerestory windows are basically high window, way above eye level, that bring outside light, air, or both, to an interior.

They became really popular in design of Romanesque and Gothic Period churches:

In contemporary use, interior as well as exterior clerestory windows are used.

If you are doing a new built/ground up projects, I strongly recommend this feature to introduce light into a house or a room.

Below are some stunning examples of clerestory windows:

Modern Bedroom design by San Francisco Architect John Maniscalco Architecture

Modern Living Room design by Tel Aviv Architect Amitzi Architects

Modern Living Room design by New York Architect Blaze Makoid Architecture

One point to consider as well is that Clerestory windows are easier and cheaper to install than adding a skylight.

Clerestory windows can be:

-  angled or slanted; 

Eclectic Kitchen design by Vancouver Interior Designer House of Dane Haunnah

- operational (open and closed); 

Traditional Exterior design by Philadelphia General Contractor Kenny Grono

- as well as transom windows

I personally believe that clerestory windows are always winners in:

Staircases and cottages :-)

Theo Flamenbaum

Style + Style + Love + You

Eye catching Ikat

Hello dear readers,

Today I am doing an entry on a decorating trend that has swept the entire world. All showrooms have them: IKAT pattern pillows.

Ikat dying originated in Indonesia and means to "bind" or to "tie". It pretty much refers to a very ancient technique in dying the threads before they're woven to create a pattern. Its beginnings date from the pre-Columbian times and there are different variations all over the world.

Today's technology allowed us to recreate the "look" of the woven pattern using a simple dye technique. Now Ikat patterns are found on silks, cottons, linens, you name it.

So... how to use them?

The choices are endless and they're everywhere.
They allow you to work with ANY colour scheme and will instantly add visual interest with its geometric shapes and patterns.

• Use them in groupings 

They are more effective and dramatic result if they're used in groups. The patterns can be the same or different, and the colours should complement each other.

• As an identical set

for adding pattern to a monochromatic room, or for a more formal look

• Mixing with solids/geometrics

For a juxtaposition/complementary function

Theo's picks:

Dwell Studio Ikat Citrine -

Anthropologie's Watercolor Ikat - 

Theo Flamenbaum

- Style + Function + Love + You -

Eternal flames

So... since we are having this gorgeous weather and summer is just so fantabulous, in the spirit of the outdoors, I am making an entry about a super snazzy collection of outdoor fireplaces.

EcoSmart Fire is a company that makes fireplaces using Bioethanol, a renewable energy source.

They sold me on the below reasons:

• Portable
• Elegant in design
• Renewable energy
• Odourless
• Weather resistant

and, not that I am lazy but the main reason:

• Maintenance free (no ashes, smoke,  spitting, embers)

You can totally use them in:

- your condo balcony

- backyard

- deck

- at the cottage

Here's their outdoor fireplace collection:

Atom

Lantern

Stix (brushed/gun metal/black steel)

Cyl

Aspect

Dish (finish in Rust/Black or White)

Bulb

Mini T

 

They are all stylish and different.

Which one is your favourite?

Theo Flamenbaum

- Style + Function + Love + You -