The Grafton Crescent project replaced an existing dilapidated small lean-to rear extension with a new glass extension at ground floor level and new timber and glass pod addition accessed off the existing stair’s half-landing. The lower level accommodates a new kitchen/ dining area to relocate the tiny original kitchen that was set within the ground floor living room. The room above could be used as an additional bedroom or communal living space.
The main reason why Grafton Crescent was of interest to me is the use of new modern architecture to expand from a much older cookie-cutter like house. Most people in metropolitan areas live in homes just light this – built to meet the demands of city growth and expansion. If one were to stay true to that architecture for unit expansion – you’d just get more “boring brick work.” I love the juxtaposition; this huge square box jutting out from the rear with giant glass windows. Imagine how it would look lit up at night – almost like a lightbox. I’m absolutely in LOVE with the full size folding glass doors that open the lower level kitchen to the garden creating a unified space. What a beautiful way to bring the outside in.
Designer: Crawford Partnership
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Rundle Lantern
The Rundle Lantern is a parking garage in Adelaide, Australia, composed of a big corner-wrapping screen. Each of the 748 “pixels ” has two LED lights behind it, and it can do all the stuff that awesome big screens can do. It was designed by brand consulting firm Fusion , but this is no jumbotron: it was intentionally designed to be a lantern to this part of town, and even though it moves it doesn’t display hard images or text. It’s more like a huge Jeremy Blake light-painting , and we love it for that. Check out the videos .
Designer: Fuse Project
Leave the Children at Home; this is Adult Business
Kids, you have to stay here: your father and I are going to the park to play on the adult playground …?! “Big Kidz” athletic environment is made for adults who want to get active in a stimulating playground setting. Equipped with slides, recycled rubber playing area, goal space, benches for snacks, and sports equipment that can be unlocked from below.
While I don’t completely buy into the idea that “adults” in this moment in history are going to be willing to play on a playground without their children, that doesn’t mean this piece isn’t slick for other reasons. I would have completely dug having this in my neighborhood or at my school while I was growing up; and you can take that to the bank.
Also, always: Be wary of any adult product that uses a Z where an S will do!
Designer: Marc Nardangeli
