Sometimes the simplest things can be so ingenious. Paper is an inexpensive resource that can be transformed into amazing concepts once touched by a skilled paper artist. Dutch artist Paula Arntzen is one of these people who love paper and experiments with it. Experiments that turn into objects of desire in the world of contemporary design.  After constant study and observation she managed to obtain a deep knowledge and understanding of the paper and its special characteristics; a knowledge that gives the designer the chance to demonstrate her talent by using a simple material like paper which can be transformed gracefully in any shape or form.

Via Yatzer.

A fluidity of surfaces is witnessed in the Yarra House designed by Leeton Pointon Architects and Susi Leeton Architects. Floors become walls; walls become ceilings; and ceiling opens up to sky. On approach, the entrance looks like a cave formed by rendered concrete walls. Only the slight and irregular black window frame insertions appear to allow light into the house. But within, light falls through the double-story void from above in all directions. Light cascades down oak and white plastered surfaces. It washes over limestone and marble, illuminating art, furniture and every handcrafted and natural surface throughout the house. The focal point and central pivot of the house is a sculptural circular stair. This transitional element divides the entire double-storey space as it stretches out under a steep exterior site.

By advertising Agency: Forchets, Milan, Italy.

By CVM Arquitectos.
The project is born with the specific volumetry marked by the “PERI” of the Raval of Barcelona, so an special attention is put in the direction of the axes of the elliptical marked plant. This way, depending on the direction towards which you travel or walk, the building is perceived in a more or less streamlined way. It is tried that the formal continuity of the construction is perceived from the outside, for that reason we consider, in ground floor; two great volumes, as pillars, supporting in it all the uses commited to the hotel management.
Interior designer: Jordi Gali.

Photos by Jordi Morales.

Belgian menswear designer Raf Simons has commissioned german-born, LA-based artist Sterling Ruby to use his Tokyo boutique as a canvas. The installation transforms the store from a stark white space into something completely different with large splashes of blue paint. The splatter pattern on the store’s display pieces looks the same with brown hue. The installation covers the boutique’s two floors and don’t worry, it didn’t affect simons’ clothing.
Sterling Ruby is currently showing at sprüth magers gallery in london.

Dancing trees, singing birds is a housing complex in Tokyo designed by architect Hiroshi
Nakamura. The multi unit dwelling may look like it is in the countryside but is actually nestled in an urban forest in Tokyo. The exterior is clad in dark wood making it blend into the surrounding trees. Small windows and alcoves protrude from the wall creating a knotty face. inside the building is minimal and modern. Swimming pools and staircases create unique vistas for inhabitants, which complement the unusual exterior.

Via Designboom.

The building is scheduled for completion in 2010. The project is led by OMA partners Shohei Shigematsu and Rem Koolhaas in collaboration with project architect Jason Long. The 23 East 22nd Street tower cantilevers eastwards to provide views of Madison Square Park from the upper floors.
Via Dezeen.