A 17th century barn conversation in Waiblingen, Germany, Atelier S is a studio and exhibition space. Rustic elements were retained and restored (the building was in danger of immenent collapse) while a modern staircase sculpture leads to the second floor. By Stuttgart based COASToffice… bringing together the past and the present, rustic and sleek.

Just a snippet from another project by Joanna Laajisto Creative Studio. Part of the design for a sushi restaurant, It’s a wonderful idea for a coffee/tea station in a home kitchen. If only I could fit one in. Espresso machine, Marimekko and blonde wood. Perfect.

Helsinki based interior architect and designer Joanna Laajisto‘s philosophy is “not to clutter this world with unnecessary things but to find the hidden beauty of each space and to enhance it by creative solutions.” Two inspiring projects. The first Bar&Co, a modern take on a 1920’s bistro. Think marble, oak, leather, wrought iron and copper. Love the hand forged copper candle sconces. The second a dark and brooding minimalist home. A modern interior of rich woods and contemporary furniture.

Climb the stairs above the boutique and gallery space to find the bijou guesthouse. Maison Rika is the creation of Ulrika Lundgren, fashion designer and founder of the Rika label. (In a previous life she was an interior designer – of course!) Classic, elegant, warm and with a twist of vintage, the two bedrooms are stylishly comfortable. A perfect base to explore Amsterdam’s “9 streets” area.

“The design brief was simple:- Fit enough appliances in that would service a small commercial kitchen; cater for a family of five that entertain a LOT, a ten seater table was a MUST! Make it stylish with no visible appliances…”

A clever kitchen design from Darren Genner and Minosa Design. A sixth floor apartment, a small space, and the need to find a home for 13 small appliances. Yes, 13. The solution? A bank of storage over 7 m with a “pop and slide” door system to conceal the wall ovens and steamer, cabinet for all those small appliances, a second appliance cabinet with tea/coffee making facilities and breakfast supplies and an ingenious scullery. And, of course, the dining table. Understated and yet bold. With the click of a remote and a flick of the wrist it extends from 8 seats to 12. Talk about a show stopper. You can find out more about the design process here.