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    Ten interiors with exposed structural ceiling beams

    Living spaces that make a feature of pre-existing beams are the focus of this lookbook, which includes examples of apartments and homes that showcase integral structural elements made from wood and metal.

    Beams are parts of a building’s structure that serve as support for ceilings, roofs and upper floors. Depending on the area’s vernacular and the structure’s age, they manifest in a variety of shapes and materials, from wooden beams that still resemble logs and tree trunks to machined steel beams.
    While beams can be concealed by installing dropped ceilings, contemporary designers often choose to celebrate and highlight them, incorporating them into interior design schemes as a reminder of a building’s origins.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring interiors animated by shimmering zellige tiles and living rooms furnished by statuesque pieces of furniture.
    The photo is by Roberto RuizPalau apartment, Spain, by Colombo and Serboli Architecture

    Hefty trunk-like wooden beams span the ceiling of this apartment in Barcelona by local studio Colombo and Serboli Architecture.
    Their rustic presence is accentuated by the otherwise sleek and polished interior, with uplights installed on top of the wardrobe literally highlighting them in the bedroom.
    Find out more about Palau apartment ›
    The photo is courtesy of Colleen Healey ArchitectureRenovation on Logan Circle, USA, by Colleen Healey Architecture
    A ceiling composed of X-shaped, white-rendered braces crowns this kitchen in a Washington DC house renovated by local studio Colleen Healey Architecture.
    The unusual, original feature provides support to the floor above, and adds to the industrial atmosphere created by the raw and painted brick walls.
    Find out more about Colleen Healey Architecture ›
    The photo is by Alex BaxterBarn at the Ahof, the Netherlands, by Julia van Beuningen
    Architectural designer Julia van Beuningen installed a plywood spiral staircase into the open-plan living space of this barn conversion.
    The naturally patterned plywood element joins a combination of both squared-off, machined wooden beams and age-warped timber beams, which support the first floor and thatched roof.
    Find out more about Barn at the Ahof ›
    The photo is by Salva LópezCasa Vasto, Spain, by Mesura
    Spanish studio Mesura turned this industrialised factory building in Barcelona into an apartment-cum-gallery space, dominated by an undulating vaulted ceiling.
    The fins that make up the structure are an example of vernacular construction techniques developed in the 19th century and create a sculptural effect that chimes with the new function of the space.
    Find out more about Casa Vasto ›
    The photo is by Yevhenii AvramenkoKyiv attic apartment, Ukraine, by Yana Molodykh
    Wooden planks and steel beams intercross on the ceiling of this attic apartment in Kyiv by Ukrainian designer Yana Molodykh.
    Despite the heaviness of the materials above, the interior has a light, airy appearance thanks to warm wooden furniture, neutral upholstery and diaphanous curtains.
    Find out more about Kyiv attic apartment ›
    The photo is by Fabian MartinezCasa Tres Árboles, Mexico, by Direccion
    A succession of dried fronds arranged in a chevron pattern is visible between cylindrical exposed beams in this house in Valle de Bravo by Mexican studio Direccion.
    The ceilings contribute to the sepia-like colour scheme apparent throughout the interiors, which is broken up by dark grey and terracotta elements.
    Find out more about Casa Tres Árboles ›
    The photo is by Lorenzo ZandriHouse by the Sea, UK, by Of Architecture
    Designed by London-based practice Of Architecture, this lofty open-plan living space in a house in Cornwall has a bright and airy atmosphere
    The whitewashed beams are studded with spotlights, light fittings, exposed services and square skylights, creating a functional yet clean ceiling scape.
    Find out more about House by the Sea ›
    The photo is by BoysPlayNiceMasná 130, Czech Republic, by ORA
    The 500-year-old chamfered wooden beams were retained in this Renaissance-era house renovated by Czech architecture studio ORA.
    The carved beams have a glossy, polished finish and are intersected by a thicker central beam decorated by more elaborate carved detailing, including a centrally-positioned roundel.
    Find out more about Masná 130 ›
    The photo is by Yevhenii AvramenkoDzen House, Ukraine, by Shovk
    Japanese and Ukrainian aesthetics meet in this house designed by architecture studio Shovk situated on the outskirts of Kyiv, which has a cosy living room capped by a series of slimline wooden beams.
    Wooden planks sit atop these structures, and together they match the thick window surround and create a grounded and cosy interior brightened by a broad, pale sofa and cool-toned walls and floors.
    Find out more about Dzen House ›
    The photo is by José Hevia105JON, Spain, by Vallribera Arquitectes
    Inside this modernised terraced house in Barcelona, Spanish studio Vallribera Arquitectes created a contrast between original features and newly inserted elements.
    The old roof, which is covered in red-coloured tiles, and the new mezzanine, lined with oriented strand board, both feature prominent structural beams – the former is supported by whittled tree trunks and the latter with metal struts picked out in blue paint.
    Find out more about 105JON ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring interiors animated by shimmering zellige tiles and living rooms furnished by statuesque pieces of furniture.

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    Eight home interiors brightened by clerestory windows

    A collection of distinctive new builds and carefully crafted residential extensions have been rounded up for our latest lookbook, which gathers home interiors enhanced and brightened by clerestory openings.

    Clerestory windows typically refer to a strip of glazing situated at the very top of a wall, or above eye-level, positioned just beneath the roof to draw in daylight. While traditionally coined in reference to the highest storey of clear glazing in a church or cathedral, clerestory windows are increasingly used in residential projects.
    Alongside their primary use for daylight access, clerestory windows may also offer privacy for ground floor residential spaces without limiting natural light, while operable clerestory glazing can also help to ventilate a home’s interior.
    Included these projects is a brick extension topped with a vaulted ceiling and arched clerestory window and a skinny concrete home wrapped with clerestory glazing for increased privacy in Japan.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring stylish nightclub interiors, relaxing beach houses with panoramic views and gallery-like living rooms with sculptural furniture.

    Photo by Tom RossSunday, Australia, by Architecture Architecture
    Australian studio Architecture Architecture used hollow breeze-blocks to blend the interior and exterior areas of this cottage extension in Melbourne.
    The new extension is topped with a mono-pitched roof and lined with large, translucent clerestory glazing to draw light into the home.
    Find out more about Sunday ›
    Photo by Ståle EriksenHeath House, UK, by Proctor & Shaw
    A blocky extension defined by a material palette of wood and white brick was added to this Grade II-listed villa in north London by Proctor & Shaw.
    In order to maximise light, floor-to-ceiling openings complemented by clerestory glazing were added to the ground floor kitchen and dining area.
    Find out more about Heath House ›
    Photo by Pedro KokSítio Rio Acima, Brazil, by Denis Joelsons
    A series of brick structures comprise Sítio Rio Acima – a residential complex near São Paulo, which was renovated by Brazilian architect Denis Joelsons.
    Among the interventions was the addition of a vaulted ceiling and arched clerestory window in the main home that becomes “a lantern at night”.
    Find out more about Sítio Rio Acima ›

    Photo by Ooki JinguForest of Pillars, Japan, by IGArchitects
    Two family homes framed by slender timber columns form Forest of Pillars completed by IGArchitects in Fukushima, Japan.
    To limit overlooking from the surrounding context, the homes were surrounded by a ring of clerestory windows positioned beneath the roof.
    Find out more about Forest of Pillars ›
    Photo courtesy of K59 AtelierDi Linh House, Vietnam, by K59 Atelier
    Architecture studio K59 Atelier used local materials such as rammed earth and timber to build this home located on a remote site in Di Linh, Vietnam.
    On the home’s west facade, a strip of clerestory glazing sit above small windows to encourage privacy and sun shading.
    Find out more about Di Linh House ›
    Photo by Tom FergusonHidden Garden House, Australia, by Sam Crawford Architects
    Australian studio Sam Crawford Architects renovated this home in Sydney to brighten its dark interior and transform it into an urban “sanctuary”.
    On the ground floor, the studio added a spacious kitchen featuring a concrete ceiling that curves upwards to draw in winter sun and provide shading, and is coupled with operable clerestory windows.
    Find out more about Hidden Garden House ›
    Photo by Vivek EadaraPott House, India, by Kiron Cheerla Architecture
    Pott House in Hyderabad, India, features a lantern-like roof designed by Kiron Cheerla Architecture to draw light and natural ventilation into the home.
    Built from a gridded timber structure, the home is organised around a full-height living space and dining area, which sit beneath the roof’s exposed timber trusses.
    Find out more about Pott House ›
    Photo by Ooki Jingu2700, Japan, by IGArchitects
    Built onto a narrow plot in Japan, this two-storey home by IGArchitects features a slim structure defined by exposed concrete walls and layered living spaces.
    To increase privacy on the ground floor, as well as draw light into the interior, a row of windows were placed at clerestory height.
    Find out more about 2700 ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring stylish nightclub interiors, relaxing beach houses with panoramic views and gallery-like living rooms with sculptural furniture.

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    Eight stylish nightclub interiors characterised by novel design approaches

    For our latest lookbook, we’ve chosen eight nightclubs that utilise clever construction methods and aesthetic solutions to execute elevated interiors with grand fittings and lavish fixtures.

    The nightclub interiors, which range from an underground bunker in Beirut to a PVC inflatable in Geneva, spotlight ambitious designs that prioritise audiovisual quality and user experience through contemporary takes on accessibility and performance.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring gallery-like living rooms with sculptural furniture pieces and neutral-hued homes with herringbone flooring.
    Photo by Tommaso RivaKlymax, Indonesia, by OMA
    Located at the Potato Head resort in Seminyak, Bali, this sleek interior with teak veneer panelling was arranged around a 208-square-metre sprung dance floor.

    Architecture studio OMA implemented a floating DJ booth and speakers with thick concrete padding engineered to avoid rattling.
    Find out more about Klymax ›
    Photo by İeva SaudargaitėB018, Lebanon, by Bernard Khoury
    Beirut’s underground bunker nightclub B018 was given a complete overhaul in 2019, with architect Bernard Khoury replacing original wooden furniture with gothic stone booths and podiums.
    Referencing religious architecture and abattoirs, Khoury added a macabre row of skeletal metal rods hanging from the centre of the nightclub as lighting fixtures. Walls, floors, ceilings and furniture are all finished in stone.
    Find out more about B018 ›
    Photo by James GerdeSupernova, USA, by Mutuus Studio
    Set within a timber warehouse building, this inclusive art and entertainment space is arranged around a giant disco ball that contains the DJ booth.
    The hemispherical booth sits in the centre of a nine-metre-long stage and is accompanied by suspended audiovisual equipment and flashy diamond-patterned lighting arrangements.
    Find out more about Supernova ›
    Photo by Cody GuilfoylePublic Records, USA, by Shane David
    Musician Shane David turned a historic Brooklyn building into a “music driven social space” called the Sound Room. The interiors are dark and moody with perforated plywood panels cladding the walls for strong acoustics.
    Other sound engineering details include wooden walls that were cut on a CNC router, and a contoured ceiling meant to diffuse sound.
    Find out more about Public Records ›
    Photo by Tony Elieh2 Weeks, Lebanon, by Rabih Geha Architects
    Layers of perforated webbed black steel divide up the industrial interiors of this downtown Beirut nightclub, separating the main bar, DJ booth and seating area.
    Clubbers must walk around the outside of 2 Weeks’ container-like walls, informed by the shipping containers of its New Waterfront Area location, to enter via a gap in the steel partition.
    Find out more about 2 Weeks ›
    Photo by Dylan PerrenoudShelter, Switzerland, by Bureau A
    Commissioned by the Federation of Swiss Architects, this intimate inflatable nightclub is made out of black PVC membrane that can be easily deflated and transported due to its lightweight structure.
    Named Shelter, the building created by studio Bureau A contains a bar and a dance floor that contains an assortment of inflatable furniture including seating, tables and a DJ booth.
    Find out more about Shelter ›
    Photo by Pauline ShapiroSilencio NYC, USA, by Crosby Studios
    At Silencio NYC, gold accented metal panels, curvy built-in seating, rich-red velvet curtains and cinematic red lighting were designed to pay homage to the club’s original location in Paris, which was designed by director David Lynch.
    Mirrored walls create the illusion of extended space in the nightclub, which was also informed by Studio 54.
    Find out more about Silencio NYC ›
    Photo by Casey KelbaughThe Prada Double Club Miami, USA, by Carsten Höller
    Belgian artist Carsten Höller designed this Miami pop-up nightclub for fashion brand Prada, with opposing identities and aesthetics dictating both internal and external spaces.
    Contrary to the colourful neon aesthetic created for outside, the club’s entirely monochromatic interiors fed into unique grayscale approaches to lighting and furniture that honoured the glory of its former 1920s film studio location.
    Find out more about The Prada Double Club Miami ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring gallery-like living rooms with sculptural furniture pieces and neutral-hued homes with herringbone flooring.

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    Eight relaxing beach houses with panoramic views

    In our latest lookbook, we’ve found eight coastal homes that take advantage of wide-spanning oceanic views, from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

    Including a mid-century modern getaway home in the Hamptons and a tropical paradise in the Bahamas, each home has a unique way of providing picture-perfect scenes.
    Whether incorporating the playful elements of a cargo net or building infinity pools that almost reach the sea, each home has found a way to provide interiors that honour their settings.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring living rooms with sculptural furniture, herringbone flooring in neutral homes and tips for bathroom decorating.
    Photo by Joe FletcherPlover House, USA, by Fuse Architects

    US-based studio Fuse Architects remodelled a 1960s Californian coastal home, raising the roofline to install large windows that fill the kitchen, dining space and bedrooms with light.
    Alongside the views of Pajaro Dunes, Plover House utilises the building’s existing skylight to maximise brightness in the home, which is contrasted by the exterior dark cedar cladding.
    Find out more about Plover House ›
    Photo by Brillhart Architecture and Stephen GoettlicherPink Sands Beach house, Bahamas, by Brillhart Architecture and Garth and Darren Sawyer
    Located by Pink Sands Beach in the Bahamas, this pavilion-style home was informed by local architecture and tropical modernism, with shutters opening the indoor-outdoor living space at the front of the building to views of palm trees and the ocean.
    Brillhart Architecture and Garth and Darren Sawyer also added exposed rafters that create shadows in the room, while windows and sliding doors at the back of the house showcase the landscape and pool.
    Find out more about the Pink Sands Beach house ›
    Photo by Andres Garcia LachnerCasa Bell-Lloc, Costa Rica, by Studio Saxe
    Folding glass doors lead to a pool with an ocean view at Casa Bell-Loc, reflecting the landscape back to the L-shaped beach house by San José-based firm Studio Saxe.
    Surrounded by wood and concrete, glass panels are slotted in and around the ceiling to create additional beams of light and extend the scene.
    Find out more about Casa Bell-Lloc ›
    Photo by Ema PeterRockbound, Canada, by Omar Gandhi Architects
    Canadian studio Omar Gandhi Architects created an expansive view of Nova Scotia with a large open deck and floor-to-ceiling windows.
    The box-shaped house and steel-bordered windows were used to form picture frame panoramas of the bay, complimented by linear indoor and outdoor furniture.
    Find out more about Rockbound ›
    Photo by Marcos ZegersPrimeriza House, Chile, by Stanaćev Granados
    Geometric wooden frames complement the Chilean backdrop at this beach house by Stanaćev Granados, situated on a cypress-lined hill in Chorrillos.
    Views can be enjoyed from a cargo net installed on the house’s first floor, which connects the white wooden interiors with the darker stain used outside.
    Find out more about Primeriza House ›
    Photo by Cesar BelioCasa Mateo, Mexico, by Zozaya Arquitectos
    An infinity pool was constructed around a tree to reflect Casa Mateo’s surroundings, which is located on the Pacific coast in Zihuatanejo, Mexico.
    Sunken seats, a steel pergola attached to the concrete structure and an outdoor dining space are located next to the pool to enjoy the oceanscape.
    Find out more about Casa Mateo ›
    Photo by Rory GardinerBilgola Beach House, Australia, by Olson Kundig
    This home in Sydney’s Bilgola Beach features a penthouse-style wing with upward folding shutters and a screen-lined bridge to maximise sights of the sea.
    Designed by Seattle-based studio Olson Kundig, the building incorporates a glass door opposite the windows to provide scenic perspectives through the building.
    Find out more about Bilgola Beach House ›
    Photo by Eric Petschek and Scott FrancesLong Island beach house, USA, by Steven Harris Architects and Rees Roberts & Partners
    The sculptural pool in this holiday home by Steven Harris Architects and Rees Roberts & Partners provides height over the dunes for a panoramic view of the Hamptons coast.
    The owners wanted to incorporate mid-century modern aesthetics, which informed the shape of the pavilion pool, and the indoor and outdoor furniture.
    Find out more about the Long Island beach house ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring living rooms with sculptural furniture, herringbone flooring in neutral homes and tips for bathroom decorating.

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    Eight gallery-like living rooms with sculptural furniture pieces

    For our latest lookbook, we’ve collected living rooms that feature sculptural furniture in homes from São Paulo to London.

    An undulating sofa, a lamp made from towering columns and a wiggly chair are among the sculptural furniture pieces in this lookbook, which showcases how they can be used to add more interest to living rooms.
    In pared-back interiors, these furniture designs can add a playful touch and make the rooms feel more special, while also giving them a gallery-like feel.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring rooms dominated by dark-wood furniture, well-designed hallways and contemporary green bathrooms.
    Photo by Fran ParenteGale Apartment, Brazil, by Memola Estudio

    Local firm Memola Estudio renovated this São Paulo apartment with a combined living-and-dining area containing furniture in earthy hues.
    Among the sculptural pieces used are a low, pill-shaped coffee table with a decorative indentation and cosy, velvet-clad lounge chairs.
    Find out more about Gale Apartment ›
    Photo by François CoquerelHaussmann apartment, France, by Hauvette & Madani
    The interior of this Parisian apartment in a Haussmann building (above and main photo) was created by design studio Hauvette & Madani to have a gallery-like feel, inspired by the owner’s art collection.
    In the living room, two slow-slung curved sofas add a sculptural touch and are complemented by round chairs and tables.
    Find out more about Haussmann apartment ›
    Photo by by Genevieve LutkinLondon townhouse, UK, by Tabitha Isobel
    A stylish metal chair with a graphic fabric adds design interest to the living room of this London townhouse, where it matches a mushroom-shaped steel lamp.
    A textured painting in earthy tones hangs above the home’s marble green fireplace, while small sculptures add to the decorative atmosphere.
    Find out more about London townhouse ›
    Photo by by Denilson MachadoDN Apartment, Brazil, by BC Arquitetos
    The living room of this 230-square-metre apartment has a Petala table by designer Jorge Zalszupin that functions as a sculptural centrepiece.
    A velvet sofa and chairs with polished wooden globes are among the other sculptural furniture pieces on show in the apartment, which was designed for a landscape architect.
    Find out more about London townhouse ›
    Photo by by José HeviaCasamontesa, Spain, by Lucas y Hernández Gil
    Spanish studio Lucas y Hernández Gil drew on 1970s aesthetics for the interior of this Madrid bungalow.
    In the living room, a sculptural wavy stool, an arched fireplace and a round tadelakt coffee table add a fun touch.
    Find out more about Casamontesa ›
    Photo by by Jake CurtisChancery House, UK, by Norm Architects
    The only non-residential building on this list, the Chancery House workspace in London has a number of living-room-like spaces for relaxation.
    In one, design studio Norm Architects added floor-to-ceiling wooden screens to create a sheltered space, where soft, monolithic armchairs are contrasted against a low, geometric wooden table.
    Find out more about Chancery House ›
    Photo by Margarita NikitakiEsperinos, Greece, by Stamos Michael
    Numerous geometric shaped pieces by designer Stamos Michael fill the living room of this Greek guesthouse, including a lamp made from two towering, rust-brown columns of powder-coated steel.
    Also featured is a sculptural chair by Michael that features a metal pole running through its backrest and a brown-leather edition of designer Konstantin Grcic’s Traffic lounge chair.
    Find out more about Esperinos ›
    Photo by Helen CathcartThe Maker’s Barn, UK, by Hutch Design
    A concrete pig farm outside London was turned into a rural retreat by architecture studio Hutch Design, which decorated it with bespoke fittings and handmade furniture.
    The sculptural furniture in the living room include a metal table with triangle-shaped legs and a wiggly lamp.
    Find out more about The Maker’s Barn ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring rooms dominated by dark-wood furniture, well-designed hallways and contemporary green bathrooms.

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    Eight neutral-hued homes patterned with intricate herringbone flooring

    From a 1970s apartment renovation in Lisbon to a converted shop in Montreal, our latest lookbook collects eight residential interiors characterised by decorative herringbone parquet flooring.

    The herringbone pattern is made of rectangles or parallelograms, arranged to resemble the bones of a herring. It is often used for wallpaper, textiles and floors.
    Herringbone is a type of parquet flooring, the umbrella term for wooden battens slotted together in various geometric and mosaic arrangements to create decorative surfaces – a trend that emerged in the 1600s.
    Each of the eight homes in this lookbook showcases herringbone parquet, either preserved as a period feature or created to emulate the age-old flooring style.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring converted barns, zellige tiles and bathroom design ideas.

    Photo by Oni StudioWarsaw apartment, Poland, by Dawid Konieczny
    Polish architect Dawid Konieczny maintained the original herringbone flooring in this 20th-century Warsaw building, which houses a petite studio apartment he designed to echo “the ease of a good hotel room”.
    Dark oak-panelled walls were chosen to match the timber floors, while veiny Palomino quartzite was applied to the open-plan kitchen countertop.
    Find out more about this Warsaw apartment ›
    Photo courtesy of Aurora ArquitectosLisbon apartment, Portugal, by Aurora Arquitectos
    Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves characterise this Lisbon apartment renovated by local studio Aurora Arquitectos to illuminate its interior.
    Three wood-lined skylights were added to the 1970s home, which features a mix of marble and pine herringbone flooring to delineate public and private spaces.
    Find out more about this Lisbon apartment ›
    Photo by Janis NicolayVancouver townhouse, Canada, by Falken Reynolds
    Canadian firm Falken Reynolds transformed the ground floor of this 100-year-old townhouse in Vancouver.
    While the team added significant contemporary design details, they also preserved historic accents including oiled oak herringbone floors and an exposed red brick wall.
    Find out more about this Vancouver townhouse ›
    Photo by Alex JamesCourtyard House, UK, by De Rosee Sa
    Local architecture studio De Rosee Sa had to follow strict planning regulations when creating Courtyard House, a London home built to mirror the exact height of the old timber store it replaced.
    A trio of internal courtyards separate the floor plan into three light-filled spaces, which feature minimalist interior design such as herringbone-patterned parquet flooring and bright white walls.
    Find out more about Courtyard House ›
    Photo by Radek BruneckyZurich house, Switzerland, by Rafael Schmid
    Swiss architect Schmid overhauled his 1920s home in Zurich to combine period and contemporary details.
    Schmid maintained the open-plan living space’s original herringbone floors, but chose a contrasting pale grey surface made from mineral anhydrite for the adjacent kitchen.
    Find out more about this Zurich house ›
    Photo by Fernando AldaPanama City apartment, Panama, by Sandra Robles Boesler
    Located in the capital city of Panama, this concrete apartment was stripped out by architect Robles Boesler to make way for softer details including oak flooring arranged in a herringbone pattern.
    The architect also chose pastel-hued furniture to add warmth to the spaces, which are split between two levels accessed via a wood-lined staircase.
    Find out more about this Panama City ›
    Photo by Maxime DesbiensRésidence Villeneuve, Canada, by Atelier Barda
    Local architecture office Atelier Barda converted a Montreal shop into a two-storey house and a separate, rentable flat.
    Wooden herringbone flooring creates a backdrop for the understated ground floor characterised by light timber furniture and sandy-hued drapes.
    Find out more about Résidence Villeneuve ›
    Photo by Luuk KramerThe Hague townhouse, the Netherlands, by Antonia Reif
    Oak parquet was laid in a herringbone pattern across the floor of this early 20th-century townhouse in The Hague.
    In contrast with the honey-hued flooring, a grey kitchen island was placed in the centre of the home’s atrium. The bespoke feature was created from a type of composite stone called Silesto.
    Find out more about this townhouse in The Hague ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring converted barns, zellige tiles and bathroom design ideas.

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    Eight dining rooms dominated by dark-wood furniture

    Our latest lookbook rounds up eight elegant dining rooms where dark-wood furniture, including tables, chairs and shelving, takes centre stage.

    The dining room furniture pieces featured in this lookbook make an impact with their dark tones, which are often evocative of vintage interiors.
    Whether made from teak, walnut or rosewood, the rich colours and grains of the natural materials make for a luxurious addition to dining spaces and offer a contrasting option to light-toned woods popular in minimalist and Scandi-inspired interiors.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring stylish hallways, green-toned bathrooms and interiors decorated with zellige tiles.
    Photo by Read McKendreeSag Harbor 2, US, by Kevin O’Sullivan + Associates

    New York practice Kevin O’Sullivan + Associates used dark wood throughout the Sag Harbor 2 home in the Hamptons to contrast light-toned stone and concrete surfaces and create a calming material palette.
    The dining room features a sculptural dark-wood dining table with a chunky surrounded by mid-century teak dining chairs designed by British designer Victor Wilkins.
    Find out more about Sag Harbor 2 ›
    Photo by Felix Speller and Child StudioMayfair home, UK, by Child Studio
    This home in London by local practice Child Studio also features mid-century modern furniture, including dining chairs by French architect Charlotte Perriand.
    Child Studio designed a circular wooden table and built-in cabinets lined with mahogany and marble to complement the chairs and unify the dining area.
    Find out more about the Mayfair home ›
    Photo by Fabian MartinezColonia Condesa house, Mexico, by Chloé Mason Gray
    Deep, moody tones characterise the interior of this home in Mexico City, which was renovated by local interiors studio Chloé Mason Gray to embrace its lack of natural light.
    The dining room is anchored by its dark furniture, which includes a quartzite table surrounded by wooden chairs with T-shaped backs.
    Find out more about the Colonia Condesa house ›
    Photo by Max Hart NibbrigBolívar House, Spain, by Juan Gurrea Rumeu
    Spanish architect Juan Gurrea Rumeu opted for warm-toned textural materials for the interior of Bolívar House in Barcelona, adding wood accents to the concrete structure.
    In the open-plan kitchen and dining room, dark-wood vintage dining chairs were paired with an even darker wooden bench that was built along the wall.
    Find out more about Bolívar House ›
    Photo by Fabian MartinezMérida house, Mexico, by Marc Perrotta
    A large wooden table forms the centrepiece of this dining room-cum-office, which is complemented by dark-wood U-shaped shelves that wrap the walls.
    It was designed by architect Marc Perrotta in his renovation of a traditional 19th-century house in Mérida. Perrotta also expanded the home with a courtyard extension.
    Find out more about the Mérida house ›
    Photo by Eric PetschekCarroll Gardens Townhouse, US, by Starling Architecture and Emily Lindberg Design
    New York studios Starling Architecture and Emily Lindberg Design placed a walnut table with rounded corners as the centrepiece of a white oak-clad dining room.
    Located in a renovated Brooklyn townhouse, the table contrasts with the light-toned room and provides a space for friends and family to gravitate around.
    Find out more about Carroll Gardens Townhouse ›
    Photo by Denilson MachadoDN Apartment, Brazil, by BC Arquitetos
    Walnut-lined walls with built-in shelves form the backdrop of this dining room, located in a 1970s São Paulo apartment that was renovated by Brazilian studio BC Arquitetos.
    Mid-century furniture was collected for the apartment, including a rosewood table by Brazilian designer Sergio Rodrigues and original red leather chairs by Polish-Brazilian designer Jorge Zalszupin.
    Find out more about DN Apartment ›
    Photo by Rory GardinerCasa Mérida, Mexico, by Ludwig Godefroy
    Informed by Mayan traditions and culture, architect Ludwig Godefroy designed a fragmented concrete home in Mérida with interiors decorated with wooden furnishings.
    In an open-plan kitchen and dining room, a table and chairs in matching dark wood provide ample space to gather and eat, and wooden doors open onto outdoor spaces.
    Find out more about Casa Mérida ›
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring stylish hallways, green-toned bathrooms and interiors decorated with zellige tiles.

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    Ten bathroom design ideas from Dezeen

    Designing your dream bathroom? From tips for tiles to suggestions for sinks and baths, here are 10 bathroom design ideas taken from Dezeen’s archive of lookbooks.

    Since 2020, Dezeen has published more than 300 lookbooks providing visual inspiration for all kinds of interiors based on the stories we publish.
    Below, we organise 10 recent lookbooks into a useful guide that captures several of the key contemporary trends in bathroom design.
    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring stylish hallways, green-toned bathrooms and interiors decorated with zellige tiles.
    Photo by Jack LovelGo big on colour and patterns

    Who says bathrooms need to be boring? Add some maximalist fun by pairing bold colours with striking patterned surfaces.
    Included in our lookbook of bathrooms that combine colours and patterns are examples that use ceramic tiles, wallpaper, marble and paint to striking effect.
    Pictured is City Beach Residence in Perth, where Design Theory contrasted mosaic tiles in the bathtub with mint green on the walls.
    See more bathrooms that combine colour and patterns ›
    Photo by Tim Van de VeldeKeep it minimal(ist)
    If maximalism isn’t for you, a more minimalist approach can make the bathroom a serene affair.
    Our lookbook of minimalist bathrooms collects examples where an absence of clutter is combined with tactile, organic materials to create a tranquil space for cleansing.
    The project pictured is Karper, an apartment in Brussels designed by Belgian studio Hé.
    See more minimalist bathrooms ›
    Photo by Zac and ZacSelect subway tiles
    Using subway tiles is a bathroom design idea that can be applied to almost any project.
    These rectangular ceramics first appeared in New York City’s earliest subway station shortly after the turn of the 20th century and have since become an interior design staple thanks to their timelessness and affordability.
    Our lookbook of bathrooms lined with metro and subway tiles showcases their versatility and surprising variety. Pictured is a Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh renovated by Luke and Joanne McClelland.
    See more bathrooms with subway tiles ›
    Photo courtesy of Note Design StudioLine it in marble…
    If you’re keen to give your bathroom a luxurious feel, marble is hard to beat.
    A range of marbles feature in our lookbook of marble bathrooms, as well as similar natural stones such as travertine and quartzite.
    Shown above is Note Design Studio’s Habitat 100 apartment in Stockholm.
    See more marble bathrooms ›
    Photo by Givlio Aristide…or concrete…
    Brutalism fans may prefer the brooding, rugged aesthetic of concrete in the bathroom.
    Our lookbook of concrete bathrooms collects examples that use the material to differing degrees, from wall-to-wall coverage to concrete bathtubs and showers.
    Pictured is the bathroom of Cloister House in Australia by MORQ, where thick rammed-concrete walls were left exposed.
    See more concrete bathrooms ›
    Photo by Stephen Kent Johnson…or timber!
    For a warmer, more welcoming feel in the bathroom, look no further than timber cladding.
    Ten sauna-like spaces are collected in our lookbook of timber-clad bathrooms, using woods such as cypress, spruce and cork.
    Shown above is Japan’s first Ace Hotel in Kyoto, designed by Kengo Kuma and Los Angeles design studio Commune.
    See more timber-clad bathrooms ›
    Photo by Megan TaylorFit two sinks
    If you have space to play with, a double sink is a fail-safe way to elevate the bathroom.
    As our lookbook on bathrooms with double sinks shows, it’s also a good way to introduce a unique focal point.
    A textbook example can be found in the bathroom of the London apartment designed by 2LG Studio, shown above.
    See more bathrooms with double sinks ›
    Photo by Andrey AvdeenkoAdd a sunken bath
    For those with less room to work with, sunken baths can help to save space while lending a spa-like atmosphere.
    Our lookbook of bathrooms with sunken baths collects examples in a wide range of settings.
    Pictured is a Japanese-influenced apartment in Kyiv designed by Sergey Makhno.
    See more bathrooms with sunken baths ›
    Photo by Benoit LineroOpt for statement sanitary ware
    Bathroom design doesn’t have to be all about surfaces. Installing a bright sink or toilet can instantly add a splash of fun.
    Pink, green, black and blue all feature in our lookbook of bathrooms with colourful sanitary ware.
    The image above shows a bathroom in Les Deux Gares, a Parisian hotel designed by Luke Edward Hall.
    See more bathrooms with colourful sanitary ware ›
    Photo by Hey! CheeseWhat’s wrong with white?
    White is the classic choice for the bathroom – but with a little imagination, yours can still stand out from the crowd.
    Our lookbook of white bathrooms shows how tiles, texture and plants can be used to ensure that simplicity doesn’t equal sterility.
    Pictured is Phoebe Sayswow Architects’ XS House in Taiwan.
    See more white bathrooms ›
    Dezeen’s lookbooks series provides visual inspiration from our archive. For more inspiration, see previous lookbooks featuring stylish hallways, green-toned bathrooms and interiors decorated with zellige tiles. Or, check out our kitchen design ideas.

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