Introduction

In 2013, Atelier Kempe Thill, in collaboration with Daniel van Doorslaer, secured victory in a competitive bid to construct a new retirement home in Heist-op-den-Berg, Belgium. This article explores the innovative design and thoughtful considerations behind the Ten Kerselaere Residential Care Center.

Embracing the Landscape: A Master Plan Concept

The proposed concept centered around a master plan featuring four elongated urban villas set amidst an open, car-free park. This design harmonized with the rural context of Heist-op-den-Berg while accentuating the horizontal nature of the Flemish landscape. Each villa was designed to cater to specific needs, allowing for a gradual implementation process while reflecting the social complexities of senior care in the modern era.

The First Building: Atrium Living

The initial phase of the project realized a residential complex comprising 36 assistance flats, all wheelchair-accessible. These two-room flats, along with larger three-room options, boasted spacious winter gardens, enabling year-round balcony usage. With a compact design facilitating easy access via staircases and elevators, the building fostered social interaction among residents, particularly within the atrium—a focal point of communal activity.

Harmonizing Hard and Soft Elements

The architectural character of the Ten Kerselaere Residential Care Center was defined by high-quality prefabricated concrete elements and sleek glass facades. Anthracite-colored concrete components complemented by sliding glass elements created a modern aesthetic, while sand-colored tiles and glass railings infused warmth and openness into the interior spaces. This delicate balance of materials and colors contributed to a homely atmosphere within the facility.

Achieving Efficiency Without Compromise

Despite operating within standard budget constraints, the project prioritized efficiency and quality. The compact typology minimized facade surface area and development costs, allowing for the integration of luxurious features such as extensive winter gardens and a communal atrium. By streamlining building services and material choices, Atelier Kempe Thill delivered a prototype that met the diverse needs of residents without sacrificing architectural excellence.

Conclusion: A Visionary Model for Senior Care

The Ten Kerselaere Residential Care Center stands as a testament to innovative design principles and a deep understanding of senior living needs. Through thoughtful planning and meticulous attention to detail, Atelier Kempe Thill has redefined the paradigm of retirement home construction, setting a new standard for quality, accessibility, and community engagement in senior care facilities.

Located at the heart of Canada’s second-largest university, between the Irving K Barber Learning Centre and the Koerner Library, the Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre (IRSHDC) embodies architectural themes of memory and social discourse. It serves as a pivotal space for reconsidering the relationship between Indigenous communities and Canadian society, fostering dialogue among community members, scholars, and visitors.

Unification of Space and Purpose

Comprising two levels, the IRSHDC integrates existing basement space from Koerner Library with new construction above on the mid-level plaza. This unique design amalgamates Indigenous culture and history with the academic environment, creating a powerful symbol of recognition within the campus landscape.

Facilitating Informed Dialogue

Drawing upon community engagement and emergent technologies, the IRSHDC aims to facilitate informed dialogue and transparent information practices. It seeks to provide equitable access to records and information, particularly those related to traumatic events, while supporting agency and pluralistic narratives.

Symbolism and Architectural Elements

Architecturally, the building embodies the reconciliation process, marking ruptures and seeking healing. Designed to capture the Indigenous Spirit without representing any specific nation, it incorporates elements symbolic of Indigenous resilience and diversity.

• Copper Roof: Symbolizing the dignity of Coast Salish peoples.
• Charred Cedar Planks: Reflective of the scarring of residential school survivors and their resilience.
• Abundant Glazing: Offers a direct connection to nature, as requested by Musqueam residential school survivors.
• Glass Waterfall: Symbolizes the tears of survivors who endured traumatic experiences.
• Woven Cedar Wall: Represents the art of basket weaving, a cultural symbol.

Sustainability and Design

Built to LEED Gold standards, the IRSHDC employs sustainable features such as low velocity displacement ventilation, high-performance envelope, and cross-laminated timber (CLT) structures. It embraces innovation while respecting the natural environment and Indigenous heritage.

Revitalizing Campus Space

Beyond its architectural significance, the IRSHDC revitalizes campus space, providing a serene environment for reflection and dialogue. It instills confidence and optimism for the future of Indigenous identity within Canada’s academic institutions, fostering a prospective outlook on reconciliation and cultural recognition.

When renovating or designing your dining room, selecting the perfect dining table is a crucial decision. It serves as the focal point of the room and influences the overall aesthetic and functionality. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a dining table that suits your style and space.

Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

The dining table plays a central role in the dining room, both aesthetically and functionally. It commands attention and sets the tone for the entire space. Therefore, it’s essential to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality when choosing a table.

Start by considering the size of the room and how the table will fit within the space. While the table should dominate the room as the primary element, it shouldn’t overwhelm the space. Ensure there’s enough empty space around the table to allow it to stand out without feeling cramped.

After addressing size and proportions, focus on the design elements of the table, including its shape, color, finish, and decor. These factors contribute to both the functional and aesthetic appeal of the table. For example, a neoclassical-style table adds a touch of luxury and elegance to a formal dining room, while a contemporary table with sleek lines complements a modern interior.

Finding the Right Size

When selecting a dining table, consider the size of the room and the number of people it needs to accommodate. While larger tables offer versatility, they may not fit smaller spaces. Conversely, a table that’s too small can appear insignificant in a large room.

Opt for a table that’s proportionate to the size of the room, ensuring it strikes the right balance between functionality and aesthetics. Extendable tables are a practical solution for maximizing space in smaller rooms while accommodating larger gatherings when needed.

Choosing the Shape

The shape of the dining table plays a crucial role in its functionality and visual appeal. Consider the size and layout of the dining room when choosing the shape of the table.

• Rectangular Tables: Ideal for large, long rooms, rectangular tables complement the length of the space and create a balanced look.
• Round Tables: Suitable for smaller rooms, round tables promote easier movement and communication during meals. They’re also versatile and can adapt to different seating arrangements.
• Square Tables: Square tables work well in rooms with a square layout, creating a balanced and elegant aesthetic. They’re also suitable for intimate gatherings.

Practical Considerations

In addition to aesthetics, consider the practical aspects of the dining table, such as its handiness and functionality. Choose a table that aligns with your lifestyle and usage habits. For example, if you frequently entertain guests, opt for a table that can accommodate extra seating with ease.

Choosing the Style

Finally, consider the style of the dining table and how it fits within the overall design scheme of the dining room. Whether contemporary or classic, ensure that the table complements the existing decor and enhances the visual appeal of the space.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a dining table that not only meets your functional needs but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your dining room. Remember to prioritize both form and function to create a harmonious and inviting dining space.

The Veterinary School Hospital in Juazeiro do Norte, part of Unileão, serves as a vital educational and practical facility for students under the guidance of instructors. Designed to cater to both small and large animals, the hospital encompasses various areas including kennels, catteries, stables, paddocks, consultation rooms, laboratories, surgical centers, classrooms, and administrative sections. The architectural approach revolves around providing ample shade for thermal comfort, a critical consideration in the region’s semi-arid climate.

Thermal Comfort and Shelter: Innovative Roof Design

A defining feature of the hospital’s design is a large detached roof that provides extensive shade to the entire building. This roof, supported by metal trusses, features a curved shape resembling waves with interruptions to allow hot air to escape. Translucent polycarbonate tiles are incorporated in some areas to harness natural light effectively. The expansive shade not only covers the building but also extends over the paddocks and areas for large animal internment, ensuring comfort for both patients and staff.

Terrain Modification and Building Placement: Enhancing Microclimate

The sloping terrain is strategically modified to create two platforms with a height difference, accommodating the various hospital buildings. The separation of activities into six distinct blocks allows for adequate spacing, facilitating cross ventilation and contributing to a pleasant microclimate. Vertical and staggered windows introduce dynamism to the facades while promoting airflow and natural light penetration.

Solar Protection and Bioclimatic Strategies: Minimizing Heat Effects

To mitigate the intense sunlight in the region, a towering solar protection structure made of solid ceramic bricks is erected. This lattice-like element, seven meters high, filters sunlight and shields the interior spaces from excessive heat. The serpentine shape of the masonry serves not only as solar protection but also as a visual and functional separator between public and private areas within the hospital. Overall, the building is designed to serve as an oasis in the desert landscape, employing passive bioclimatic strategies to combat the challenges of the semi-arid climate and create inviting and comfortable environments for the hospital’s activities.

Keeping up with home décor trends isn’t just about following the crowd; it’s about creating spaces that resonate with us personally and evoke certain feelings when we enter a room. Trends in décor allow us to refresh a space and alter our emotional connection to it, whether by embracing a new aesthetic or rediscovering forgotten elements. At Furniture Source International, our team finds inspiration from various sources, including magazines, shows, beloved homes, and other businesses, to stay abreast of emerging trends. Here are some of the trends we’re currently observing:

Colors

Color is making a vibrant comeback, reminiscent of the bold hues and retro vibes of the ’70s era. From wall paints to upholstery and accent pieces, vibrant and eye-catching colors are making a statement in interior design. Now is the perfect time to introduce a bold accent piece that reflects your personal style. An armchair or sideboard in a striking color can add personality to a monochromatic space. If committing to a full piece of furniture feels daunting, consider incorporating color through accessories like woven rugs, throw pillows, or wall art.

Natural Elements

Bringing natural elements into your home décor adds depth and texture to your space. Incorporating wood, wicker, straw, bamboo, and greenery blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Extending your favorite indoor design elements to outdoor spaces like porches or patios creates a seamless transition between environments. Mixing natural elements indoors and outdoors encourages fluid movement between spaces for guests and family members. If fully committing to multiple natural elements feels overwhelming, start small by introducing a few textures and natural colors through pillows, wall hangings, or other interchangeable items.

Sustainability

At Furniture Source International, sustainability isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a core principle. We prioritize using reclaimed wood for many of our custom pieces, embodying a commitment to conservation and sustainability. Crafting heirloom-quality furniture ensures that your investment will withstand the test of time and won’t contribute to landfill waste. The weathered and worn characteristics of reclaimed wood, expertly restored by our craftsmen, add elegance and character to each piece of furniture.

Whether you’re drawn to these trends or have a unique vision of your own, Furniture Source International offers a diverse selection to cater to every taste. Mixing popular design elements with your personal style creates a space that truly reflects your individuality, whether it’s your home, office, or any other living space. Visit us to explore our collection and discover the perfect pieces to elevate your space.

In the genesis of the creative process, metaphors often weave seamlessly into the essence of its realization. Such is the case with House EP 02, where metaphors subtly intertwine, offering an intuitive experience for users. Unbeknownst to many, the alignment of planes landing in perfect synchrony from the balcony mirrors the trajectory of stars on the horizon, a poetic nod to the Guadalajara international airport’s landing track, approximately 10 km away.

Architectural Composition and Layout

Spanning 340 m2 within the El Palomar private neighborhood in Tlajomulco de Zuñiga, Jalisco, House EP 02 boasts a two-story structure characterized by three distinct “boxes” harboring varied proportions, materials, and programs. Strategically stacked and oriented, these elements forge a functional, practical, and aesthetically pleasing abode. The ground floor, housing service rooms, provides the foundational support for the upper private bedrooms module.

Harmonizing with the Landscape

Positioned atop one of the city’s highest hills, the house seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The second module, resting organically on the ground, capitalizes on the site’s natural slopes. Linked by a terrace connector space, the upper modules offer panoramic views of Guadalajara, epitomizing urban grandeur.

Accessibility and Sustainability

Designed as a permanent residence for an elderly couple, the house prioritizes accessibility. Vehicular and pedestrian ramps facilitate easy access without compromising architectural integrity. Sustainability echoes throughout the design, evidenced by a water management system comprising a biodigester, filters, and irrigation, ensuring efficient water usage and minimal environmental impact.

Embracing Natural Elements

A testament to environmental respect, the front patio incorporates a fragment of the site’s volcanic history—a striking obsidian rock embedded in the retaining wall. This homage to the land’s preexistence underscores the integration of natural elements into the architectural narrative, fostering a symbiotic relationship with the environment.

Conclusion: A Poetic Fusion of Design and Nature

House EP 02 epitomizes the poetic fusion of design ingenuity and environmental consciousness. From metaphorical alignments to sustainable practices, every facet of the house reflects a harmonious coexistence with its surroundings, offering residents not just a home, but an immersive experience deeply rooted in nature and metaphor.

The Jacques Chirac School, situated in Rabat, Morocco, pays homage to the city’s rich cultural and architectural legacy. Crafted by Saad El Kabbaj, Driss Kettani, and Mohamed Amine Siana, the project encapsulates the essence of Rabat’s elegance, sobriety, and historical continuity while seamlessly integrating modern educational facilities.

Comprehensive Layout

The school comprises two primary entities: the kindergarten and elementary school, and the secondary school, complemented by administrative offices, a library, sports facilities, and an auditorium. The strategic placement of these components on the plot optimizes flow regulation and access management.

Spatial Organization

Distinct zones delineate the plot, with the kindergarten and elementary schools occupying the southwest, ensuring convenient access. Conversely, the secondary school spans the northeast, configured in an L-shape to maximize outdoor space for recreational activities. Support functions occupy the central plot area, interconnected by corridors across multiple levels.

Maximizing Views and Environmental Harmony

The architectural composition prioritizes expansive views, framing perspectives that merge indoor and outdoor spaces harmoniously. A thoughtfully designed landscape layout shields indoor areas from excessive sunlight and urban noise, fostering a conducive learning environment.

Architectural Expression

Drawing inspiration from Rabat’s architectural identity, the design exudes refinement, dynamism, and expressiveness. Clean, white volumes accentuated by strong horizontal lines dominate the aesthetic, complemented by large slits and vertical sunshades that animate the façade. Traditional Moroccan tiles, known as “zellige,” inject playful elements, particularly appealing to children.

Passive Design Solutions

To ensure optimal comfort in Rabat’s climate, most teaching spaces are accessed via outdoor covered corridors. This design strategy facilitates bi-ventilation and natural lighting, aligning with proven passive solutions tailored to the local climate.

In essence, the Jacques Chirac School transcends conventional educational architecture, serving as a testament to Rabat’s cultural heritage while embracing contemporary design principles. Through thoughtful spatial organization and architectural expression, the school embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, fostering an enriching learning environment for its students.

Investing in quality furniture is not only about aesthetics but also about ensuring comfort and functionality in your home. Whether it’s a luxurious sofa, an exquisite dining set, or a timeless accent piece, with proper maintenance, your furniture can uphold your taste and style for years to come. Learn how to preserve the beauty of your investment and prepare your furniture to withstand the test of time.

Know Your Furniture’s Materials

Understanding the materials used in your furniture’s construction is crucial for determining the best cleaning methods. Whether it’s wood, leather, fabric, or metal, each material requires different care. Prior to cleaning or conditioning your furniture, familiarize yourself with its composition and the recommended care instructions.

Create a Cleaning Routine

Life inevitably brings spills, dust, dirt, and stains, but these need not become permanent blemishes on your furniture. Establishing a regular cleaning routine can help minimize the effects of everyday mishaps and aging. Begin by incorporating weekly dusting of solid pieces using a soft microfiber cloth and vacuuming upholstered furniture with a brush attachment. Address stains promptly based on your furniture’s fabric type, and regularly condition wood to preserve its shine.

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat Exposure

Unfiltered sunlight can cause upholstery fabrics to fade and contribute to warping and cracking of certain furniture finishes. Protect your furniture from sunlight by using blinds or curtains, or by positioning pieces away from windows. Additionally, refrain from placing hot items directly on your furniture to prevent heat-related damage. Utilize coasters, placemats, tablecloths, and trivets to shield your furniture from heat, condensation, spills, and scratches.

Keep an Eye on Humidity Levels

Excessive or fluctuating humidity levels can adversely affect wood and leather furniture, leading to expansion and contraction, which may result in warping and cracking over time. Maintain consistent humidity levels by using a humidifier or dehumidifier in your home as necessary, especially during extreme weather conditions.

Treat Spills and Stains Right Away

Accidents are inevitable, but immediate attention can mitigate permanent damage to your furniture. Blot up spills promptly with a clean, absorbent cloth to soak up excess liquid. Avoid rubbing spills and stains, as this may cause them to spread. Use a mild detergent appropriate for your furniture’s materials and test it in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire stain.

Rotate and Rearrange

To prevent uneven wear, periodically rotate cushions, pillows, and mattresses. Rearrange throw pillows, blankets, or other accent items to distribute usage across different areas. This practice not only prolongs the lifespan of your furniture but also maintains a fresh and inviting appearance in your room.

Professional Maintenance

For intricate repairs, refinishing, restoration, or stubborn stain removal, enlist the services of a professional with expertise in the specific type of furniture requiring attention. Restoration specialists possess the necessary skills, tools, and techniques to address damage to delicate pieces effectively. Seek advice from these professionals on preserving the longevity and appearance of your investments.

Invest in Timeless Quality with Furniture Source International

At Furniture Source International, our traditionally crafted furniture exemplifies unparalleled quality designed to endure for generations. We utilize antique and reclaimed hardwoods, hand-forged iron hardware, and other natural materials to create unique pieces that transcend ordinary furniture sets. Invest in enduring quality and consult our knowledgeable experts on caring for these timeless pieces, ensuring they retain their allure for decades to come.

Ionix, formerly known as Cyberpion, offers enterprises a comprehensive solution to minimize their attack surface and enhance security across various platforms and services. With a focus on on-premises, cloud, and third-party environments, Ionix provides organizations with valuable insights into their security posture and software supply chain. Recently, the company announced an additional $15 million investment to supplement its existing $27 million Series A round.

Expanded Funding and Investor Support

The latest funding round was led by new investor Maor Investments, along with contributions from existing backers Hyperwise Ventures, Team8, and U.S. Venture Partners (USVP). This infusion of capital brings Ionix’s total funding to $50.3 million, underscoring investor confidence in the company’s mission and technology.

Addressing Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

As supply chain attacks become increasingly prevalent, Ionix aims to address the challenges faced by enterprises relying on numerous third-party services and tools. By offering a unified platform for managing the attack surface, Ionix empowers businesses to gain better visibility and control over potential security risks. The platform’s ability to extend beyond a company’s firewall provides crucial insights into vulnerabilities that may go unnoticed by traditional security measures.

Comprehensive Attack Surface Management

While attack surface management is not a novel concept, Ionix distinguishes itself by providing a more holistic perspective compared to its competitors. By leveraging precise mapping capabilities, Ionix helps organizations identify assets and vulnerabilities that may have been overlooked by conventional security tools. According to Ionix CEO Marc Gaffan, customers using Ionix discover 50% more assets than with alternative solutions, highlighting the platform’s effectiveness in enhancing security posture.

Customer Adoption and Market Uptake

Ionix has garnered significant traction in the market, attracting renowned enterprises such as Lexmark, Warner Music Group, Infosys, and E.ON. The platform’s ability to offer a comprehensive view of the attack surface, coupled with its focus on prioritizing critical exposures, resonates with organizations seeking robust security solutions. As cyber threats continue to evolve, Ionix remains committed to empowering businesses with the tools and insights needed to mitigate risks effectively.

In summary, Ionix’s latest funding round signifies a vote of confidence from investors and reinforces the company’s position as a leader in attack surface management. With its innovative approach and growing customer base, Ionix is poised to make significant strides in fortifying cybersecurity defenses for enterprises across various industries.

Nestled in Seogyo-dong, the OY shop stands as a testament to contemporary elegance, characterized by its clean lines and geometric forms. As a fashion brand that seeks to redefine modern style, OY SEOUL boasts a spacious 2-floor showroom, inviting patrons into a world of sartorial innovation.

A Journey of Spatial Exploration

Stepping into the OY SEOUL Fashion Store, visitors are greeted by a sense of minimalism juxtaposed with abundant natural light. The entrance unveils an open passage that beckons guests into a realm that seemingly extends into infinity. The focal point of the entrance area, accentuated by a dome-shaped ceiling, creates an illusion of endless space.

Curated Design Elements

A striking curved hanger serves as a focal point, inviting visitors to explore the interplay between natural and industrial elements. From plants cascading over cold surfaces to reflections captured in angled mirrors, every detail is meticulously curated to captivate the senses. Ascending a straight staircase, guests are transported into a realm where monotony gives way to dynamic design.

Embracing Three-Dimensional Dynamics

COV Studio’s design ethos revolves around creating experiential spaces that immerse users in the brand’s essence. By infusing the showroom with furniture of diverse physical properties, the design team amplifies the three-dimensional effect, inviting visitors to engage with the space on multiple levels. Each element is thoughtfully integrated to convey the brand’s image with utmost clarity and sophistication.

From its geometric allure to its immersive spatial experience, the OY SEOUL Fashion Store by COV Corp epitomizes modern elegance, offering patrons a captivating journey through the intersection of fashion and design.