Freshwater by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects is a beautifully designed family residence that prioritizes both function and aesthetics. The home’s crisp architectural edges create a frame that draws the eye inward, showcasing the light-filled interior and lush courtyard. Nestled in a serene suburban area, the design fosters introspection rather than outward views. The generous layout promotes a sense of spaciousness and interconnectedness, with internal vistas linking separate rooms. A single-storey rear pavilion features a skylit roof, flooding the open-plan living spaces with northern light. The sculptural kitchen island serves as a focal point, echoing the home’s design motifs. Materials like brick and concrete provide a raw, tactile quality, while timber accents soften the look. Custom terrazzo flooring with subtle pink flecks adds warmth and the timber-clad study offers a cozy retreat. Overall, the residence captures a modern essence, creating a joyful environment for family life within its leafy surroundings.
Photography by Pablo Veiga.
How to masterfully blend a farm house into the landscape with a crumbling stone structure, a fire pit and dining area, a potager garden, and a chicken coop. What an absolutely dreamy homestead! Designed by Water Street Design Associates. Photos: Caryn B. Davis.
I am trying to put some coherent words together after picking my jaw up off the floor. I have to say it…..this is the coolest home I have ever featured on the blog. This is so epic on so many levels that I don’t know where to begin. I love this so damn much. I keep picturing Rick Owens strutting around in here, maybe holding a fashion show up and down these hallways. INCREDIBLE! The Varpullan estate is located on the Dutch, Belgian and German border and is currently for sale here. (And thank you Dave for sending us this link!)
Varpullan is the name of the astonishing world of sculptor Arthur Spronken. This unique, temple-like residential complex on a plot of over 2 hectares, includes a villa/loft, studio, workshop, storage depot and company house, and is entirely his own creation – a work of art to live and work in! The name Varpullan is an ode to his wife, the Finnish artist Varpu Tikanoja. This is the life’s work of Arthur Spronken and Varpu Tikanoja. In addition to the living area, the complex also includes the workshop, the exhibition space, the storage depot and a company house. The living area is 810 m², the workshop and warehouse area is no less than 560 m² and the covered outdoor area covers another 267 m². All in all, it has a gross capacity of 5,824 m³.
This Sydney home is a private, tranquil retreat that blends natural elements with contemporary design. The serene interior features organic forms, neutral tones and elegant charm, creating a peaceful escape from urban life. The home provides a calm environment to relax and unwind, showcasing a vibrant yet soothing personality throughout. Annandale Residence by MXM Design Studio.
Photography by Ryan Linnegar.
Felin Cottage. The perfect Welsh cottage hideaway. Sleeping up to 8 guests, with two living spaces, log burner and roll top bath, Felin is a place to escape and make memories. A great family friendly cottage option, or perfect for a couples weekend escape. There are handmade box bunks for our little (and not so little) guests, and a wonderful courtyard garden to enjoy all year round.
This cottage is the freaking sweetest!!!! I love how rustic and basic and earthy it is. The perfect place to book for a getaway when you really want to getaway from city life. Book this gem here.