great things come in small packages

Like this townhouse by architect Elding Oscarson.

In a small and narrow site (measured 5m x 15m only!) squeezed between the conventional neighbouring buildings, this modern townhouse stands out in a modest way.

I adore its simple facade and the open plan with split level floor, not to mention the rooftop terrace. Why didn't I think of that?

You can read the full article and pictures in Arch Daily.

Inspiration: Cozy Nooks

I was browsing Apartment Therapy when I stumbled upon this gorgeous House Tour. If you haven't notice, I've a soft spot for green design - even my final year project was about Green Architecture.

But I'm not going to bore you with some architectural terms now. I just want to share the cozy nooks in the house, which are perfect for lounging around, reading, take a short nap or just gazing outside the window.

Like this sleeping porch, located right next to the master bedroom facing the backyard. It's a fun and cozy twist to the ordinary chair-and-table or bench usually seen in porch or terrace.

Or the dreamy reading nook inside the kid's bedroom. I would've read for hours there!

And do you notice the bay window seating in the living room below? Lovely!

And then there's this unexpected nook above the staircase. It may not save for small kids, but it looks oh so cozy.

If you want to see more, you could see the full article here.

Stairway to....

I couldn't help to laugh out loud when I saw this comic strip from Wiley Miller. I always read his Non Sequitur strip in the local paper.

Back to the above strip, I can really relate to it in terms of "why the stairs have no handrails?"

As you may already know or observe, with the modern minimalist style in the rage, there are sooo many stairs designed with no handrails. I myself am an avid lover of everything that's clean cut, streamlined, uncluttered - in other word, yes, I also like the modern minimalist look.

But one should re-think again about what comes first.. Form or Function.

Having preschoolers of my own while craving for that sleek modern look is definitely look like a mere dream for now.

So I think I have to wait til the time I can have these beautiful stairs in my house..

Pics from Stair Porn