
Brasília's Essence Transformed into Domestic-Scale Installation
Architecture studio Debaixo do Bloco has crafted an installation, "Brasília em Escala Doméstica," within Oscar Niemeyer's Bienal Pavilion in São Paulo. The exhibit aims to capture the spirit and atmosphere of Brasília, translating its monumental public architecture into an intimate, domestic setting. Featuring pilotis, curved surfaces, and a curated selection of modernist Brazilian furniture, it offers a unique perspective on the capital city's design heritage and cultural memory.

Tomi Hotel Ginza: A Boutique Stay for Groups in Tokyo
Architect Keiji Ashizawa has transformed a former hostel in Tokyo's Shintomicho district into the Tomi Hotel Ginza. This boutique hotel now offers spacious, self-contained suites on each of its ten floors, catering specifically to families and groups. The design emphasizes natural materials like oak wood and neutral tones, aiming to provide a comfortable, home-like experience with the reliability of a hotel. A ground-floor cafe further integrates the hotel with the local community.

Cobe's Copenhagen Studio Transformed into Public Architecture Bookshop
Danish architect Nikolaj Mentze has transformed the interior of Cobe's Copenhagen studio into a dedicated architecture bookshop. This new space aims to make architectural knowledge more accessible to the public, featuring a curated selection of books on architecture, urbanism, landscape, and design. It offers a tranquil environment for reading and discussion, serving as a hub for community engagement and intellectual exchange.
Jasmine Fisher, an accomplished interior designer, has meticulously crafted an inviting atmosphere for her London-based studio. Moving beyond a conventional, sterile office aesthetic, she infused the workspace with inviting warmth through a curated selection of colors and artworks, aiming to create a sense of belonging within the professional setting.
The original 32-square-meter rental unit presented as a stark, impersonal white room, which starkly contrasted with Fisher's distinctive design philosophy centered on character and layered aesthetics. Having transitioned from a career as a barrister, Fisher skillfully negotiated the lease terms to allow for comprehensive modifications to the finishes, lighting, and window treatments, thus enabling her to cultivate a more fitting and inspiring ambiance for her creative endeavors.
Fisher's design philosophy emphasizes creating spaces that resonate deeply with individuals and brands. She explains that true interior design extends beyond mere visual appeal, aiming to evoke profound feelings and positively influence well-being. Her studio serves as a tangible demonstration of this belief, allowing clients to immerse themselves in her vision rather than simply hearing about it. By working within the lease restrictions, Fisher adeptly utilized texture, light, and color to transform the space into an ideal environment for client engagement and fostering innovative work. The palette of earthy pinks and browns establishes a serene and grounded backdrop, complemented by bold red accents that inject character and confidence into the overall scheme. Fisher highlights that her approach prioritizes uncovering and expressing the unique narratives and values of her clients through art, materials, and craftsmanship drawn from various cultures and historical periods, resulting in spaces that feel authentically lived-in rather than merely styled.
The studio's functional layout revolves around a prominent central table, serving as a hub for client meetings and design evaluations. Surrounding this central feature, shelves are thoughtfully stocked with a comprehensive materials library, ensuring easy access to samples during the creative process. Workstations are strategically placed along the back wall, benefiting from abundant natural light streaming through a large window, which also allows the studio to maintain its operational flow even during ongoing meetings. The space is adorned with an eclectic collection of furniture, artworks, and objects sourced from artisans worldwide. These pieces often spark Fisher's initial design concepts, reflecting her preference for items rich in texture, craftsmanship, history, or cultural significance. She explains that artistry is integrated from the project's inception, woven into textiles, furniture, lighting, and handcrafted elements, rather than being an afterthought. Notable furnishings include the Twist & Knot chairs from Viya, VandaVee's sculptural Dida Chair I, and a Rivoli Cabinet from British furniture maker Soane. Contemporary works by Cornish painter Hannah Ludnow, photographer Tyler Goldflower, and French artist David Aiu Servan-Schreiber complement historic and contemporary craft pieces, such as shamanic masks from the Panamanian rainforest and handwoven wall hangings from Colombia and North Africa. Fisher actively seeks out these distinctive items during her travels, through a network of dealers, and by attending art fairs and visiting artists' studios.
Founded in 2022 after her legal career, Fisher's studio embodies her diverse Polynesian, Chinese, and English heritage, informing a broad cultural approach to interior design. Her philosophy champions the integral role of art, craft, and materials in shaping compelling interiors. Her studio not only serves as a functional workspace but also as a vibrant testament to her belief that thoughtful design can profoundly impact well-being and elevate the quality of life.