Sleepbox

Images credit Arch Group/Ivanov Ilya. When I first wrote about the Sleepbox two years ago, I was dubious that it would ever see the light of day, noting "It is an interesting exercise in seeing how small a space one can comfortably live in, but one suspects that the opportunity for, um, misuse might keep this idea of the 15 minute hotel room from going mainstream." But it has, with a working prototype set up in Moscow. Designed by the Arch Group, about the only change from the original proposal is that it is made of wood instead of plastic (common for prototypes, and the minimum time has increased from 15 minutes to half an hour. They appear to have given up on one my favourite features of the original concept, the automatic bed-changing system: [bed] is equipped with automatic system of change of bed linen. Instead they have gone for conventional linen. The architects write: Imagine the situation where you are in a modern city, you are not a local resident, and you have not booked a hotel.

The Meera House by Guz Architects We have already reviewed the Fish House by Guz Architects, and now present another project of these talented designers. The houses have much in common and it is difficult to say which one is more beautiful. The Meera House is located on the island of Sentosa adjacent to Singapore and amazes with its magnificence. Looking from above, the house is like a green oasis, because roof and terraces are covered with grass and some trees. But this is not the only outstanding feature of this splendid design. Beautiful view of the water, the incredible staircase and swimming pool separated by glass walls are also impressed by their originality. You might also like Voronoi - Yacht Yacht for Entertaining Yet another intriguing concept from yacht enthusiast Hyun-Seok Kim. The Voronoi mega-yacht is named after the voronoi pattern of the irregular honeycomb lattice structure that encases it’s upper levels. This yacht was made to entertain. Designer: Hyun-Seok Kim

Old Garage turned Mini Dream Home Hello there! It’s been a busy week with a trip to Seattle for the Picasso exhibition and a drive out to the coast but I knew I had to share this amazing remodel with you before the week came to a close. Everyone loves good makeovers and the ones involving tiny spaces, creative design and ingenious solutions are my all time favorites! Check out how Seattle artist, designer and welder, Michelle de la Vega, created this beautiful little 250 sq. ft. haven… The before… This lonely little detached garage is just begging for some love. The after! A cozy, light filled sleeping loft is so perfect for the space. The kitchen is well organized and accessible with open storage solutions. The rustic wood burning stove becomes sculptural in this room along with Michelle’s own art installations. The glass boxes housing pillow forms are actually a tribute to Michelle’s father. You know I am a big fan of great bathroom design and this one delivers. How many of us have garages that only house our junk!?

Space Saving Apartment, New York This tiny but highly sophisticated studio apartment in the East Village of NYC has made us very proud, thanks to JPDA. Not only was it built as a super efficient multi-functional unit but with the use of detailed mill work, the storage capacity was very cleverly executed and resulted in a super stylish studio with a decent amount of floor space. Shouldn’t all NYC dwellers aim to live like this? You decide… A schematic rendering demonstrates a realistic plan for this tiny apartment. Although we’re not too sure how realistic that cubbyhole at the crown of the loft is in a NYC apartment building, the rest of the space makes perfect sense. This tiny living/work space is beautifully masked with natural light and looks so inviting! This mezzanine bedroom is constructed with beautiful teak wood that houses hidden storage compartments… What great use of typically neglected storage space…. Well lit and highly efficient modern kitchen has beautiful appliances and plenty of counter space.

Basketball Court Converted to Fantastic Home - StumbleUpon “The Apartment” group worked on everything from the architecture to the decor. New building techniques were applied and even an indoor garden was built. “The Apartment” group wanted to retain some of elements of the old basketball court, and so decided to keep the basketball court flooring in the private areas of the house, such as this bedroom. The wallpaper was even designed by “The Apartment” company themselves. A 12-person home theater was installed. A 30-foot long kitchen was designed and built by “The Apartment.” Upon its realization, the “basketball apartment” was the setting for various tv shows, movies, and photo-shoots, including “Ugly Betty” and the film, “Music and Lyrics.” Images are via The Behance Network.