Author: Igor

  • DDomingo

    DDomingo

    Larisa Coto is the founder of DDomingo, a product design studio from Costa Rica creating handcrafted concrete lighting, furniture and homewares. We chatted with Larisa about her background, the inspiration behind her designs and why she decided to work with concrete.

    www.facebook.com/DDomingocr

    Photos by Gregory James

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    Could you please tell us a little bit about your background and education?

    I’m an architect based in Costa Rica and I’m the founder of DDomingo (Handcrafted concrete products, lighting and furniture). Design in general is something I am passionate about since I was 12 years old. I studied architecture in Costa Rica and in Buenos Aires, Argentina and in 2 months, I will have my master’s degree (Architecture and Environment) from Wismar University in Germany.

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    What made you start your own business?

    Firstly, my parents’ influence, definitely. My parents built their own businesses when I was growing up. Secondly, working in several architecture studios gave me lots of experience and knowledge in different areas of design. By having the opportunity of working in different cities, I was able to make contacts and was lucky to be reached by them. At that point, I decided that it was a good moment to start my own studio.

    Why did you decide to work with concrete and not another material?

    Concrete is a strong material but sensitive at the same time. You can have infinity of finishes on a concrete piece – different textures, colours and shapes. The surprise factor is one of my favourite things about this material – you never know how it’s going to look like until you demould it.

    I have noticed that people are surprised to see this material used in product design, mainly in smaller pieces. People always touch it and feel attracted to the surface.

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    What is the inspiration behind your designs?

    My biggest inspiration is nature. I am constantly exploring and searching my surroundings for new ideas. It is very easy to be inspired living in a tropical country like Costa Rica. Patterns, textures, organic shapes and colour palettes are my main focus when I am looking for some inspiration and creativity.

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    You design from furniture to homeware, is there any type of product you’d like to experiment with?

    Lighting/lamps is something I have been working on. Incorporating light into a product is something that has become an experiment. Light reveals textures, colour, shapes and transforms spaces. Also, I have been working with some other colleagues, exploring art and fashion. We are preparing 3 new collections for the coming year, combining concrete with new materials and concepts.

  • Green Rooms Hotel

    Green Rooms Hotel

    Considered the UK’s first arts hotel and social enterprise, Green Rooms is designed to attract artists visiting and working in London. The hotel opened its doors in Spring 2016 and has already positioned itself as a creativity hub, working with local communities and artists on exhibitions, performances and events all happening at Green Rooms. We visited Green Rooms and stayed one night to experience what this new hotel concept has to offer.

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    Located in North London, just opposite from Wood Green underground station, the hotel is just 15 min away from King’s Cross on the Picadilly Line which makes it really easy to get to the city centre. The beautiful art deco building was constructed in 1925 for The North Metropolitan Power and Electricity Company and has been restored by London architects SODA, with interiors created by fashion brand Folk.

    The idea behind Green Rooms is to engage with local and visiting artists, offering affordable rates – everyone is welcome at Green Rooms but you get a discount if you’re an artist or work in the creative industries. You can also choose a room type that best fits your budget: dormitory rooms and standard rooms with shared bathroom facilities or en-suite rooms (where we stayed) and studio apartments designed for extended stays.

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    Whilst at most hotels you just want to spend time in your room and avoid the lobby, Greem Room’s ground floor is welcoming and buzzing with guests and local creatives. An open space, nicely decorated, that houses the hotel’s reception, bar and restaurant and also serves as exhibition space for local artists. The hotel’s top floor is a multi-purpose space, which can be used as a gallery or for rehearsals, screenings and other private events.

    The restaurant is an incubator project running rent-free 6-month residencies for emerging chefs that haven’t had experience running a restaurant before, offering also mentorship and a way to develop their own brand during their time at Green Rooms. A great and unique initiative that is currently helping the hotel’s first chef in residence, Esteban Arboleda from Colombian Street Kitchen. Esteban is on a mission to pioneer Colombian Street food as a mainstream cuisine in the UK and after having a delicious dinner with different dishes to share, we have no doubt that he will succeed.

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    To find out more about what makes Green Rooms different to any other hotel you might have been to, we chatted with Nick Wright, founder of Green Rooms, and Cathal McAteer, founder of Folk.

    www.greenrooms.london

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    Could you  tell us about how the concept for creating the UK’s first hotel social enterprise came about?

    Nick: The concept for Green Rooms was something I’d been playing around with for a long time. The challenge was finding the right site. London is a brilliant city – arguably the best in the world – and a real cultural hub. But it’s also very expensive. There was a real gap in the market for a genuinely affordable, design-led hotel that encourages and fosters collaboration among guests. A lot of people who work in the arts don’t have much disposable income and can’t afford to spend £250 a night on a hotel room when they come to London. But by the same token they don’t want to stay in anodyne, formulaic budget hotels either. The sharing economy is obviously another option, and it’s a great model, but when you rent a room in someone else’s flat – no matter how beautiful it might be – you’re immediately isolating yourself.

    Could you tell us about the different ways in which the local community can engage with Green Rooms?

    Nick: We’re benefiting and engaging with the local community in lots of ways. The hotel has provided numerous job opportunities for local people fort starters, and Wood Green residents are using the communal spaces at the hotel – particularly the bar and restaurant. There wasn’t really a hang out like it before we opened. People are also also enjoying the performances, events, exhibitions and screenings that are being put on. We recently ran a month-long street art exhibition by the Turnpike Art Group that went down a treat, and moving forward we’ll be hosting a new exhibition every month. And there’s loads of other stuff too. Just last Saturday we had Bandante play in the top floor gallery space – they’re the new band from George Vjestica (ex-guitarist with Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds).

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    British clothing brand Folk has designed some of the hotel rooms, how did this collaboration happen?

    Cathal: Nick and I have been mates for ages. He explained the vision and then we went on site a few times and did a walk through. With such a wonderful building and the vision laid down, it was easy from there. For us the furniture has always come as something that is needed to solve an issue. Shelves because we needed shelves in our stores, a chair because we needed a chair for the Flushing Meadows Hotel. So it’s a range that’s grown out of necessity really. Some of these pieces grow into other products with the same design strain. For Green Rooms it was all about keeping things clean. Nice lines, sparse and simple. And everything had to be in harmony with the wider holistic vision for the project. Green Rooms is great for us because it means we can show the homewares products in situ. It makes more sense looking at one of our chains in a hotel room than it does in one of the shops.

    We love the concept of the chef residency at the hotel’s restaurant, what are some of the characteristics you’re looking for when considering a chef to be part of Green Rooms?

    Nick: There are a number of things. First off they’ve got to be good and cook amazing food! And then they have to be at a certain stage in their evolution. The whole project is about giving burgeoning restaurateurs a chance to run their own restaurant but we can’t take people who have just been cooking at home in their kitchens. They need to be a bit further on. Ideally they’ll have done pop ups, maybe had a successfully food truck, that type of thing. They also need to buy into the overall vision – that’s really important. We’re nice people, we’re trying to affect change in a positive way with Green Rooms. We’re not rapacious guys who are hung up on making money. Of course we want to be profitable, and we are, but there’s a way of going about things.

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    Could you tell us about what exhibitions and events guests and visitors can enjoy at Green Rooms in the upcoming months?

    Nick: There’s loads going on in the next few months – it’s a veritable artistic feast. On November 12 we had the incredible ’12 Ensemble’ in for a performance. They’re London’s ‘Un-conducted string orchestra’ and do brilliant and accessible classical music pieces. Later that week we’ve got a life drawing class happening (November 17), then we’ve got a New Variety Lives! comedy show, we’ve got R-FT doing an artist-in-residence programme and we’ve got an exhibition from artist Sonia Pang. And this isn’t event the half of it!

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  • 6 Mistakes To Avoid When Shopping For Clothes

    Most people love to shop. Though short-lived, the joy of acquiring new things can have a therapeutic effect on your mood. Finding the best buys for every season sometimes goes beyond only hunting for the best deals. Knowing what to look out for will help make your shopping experience more fulfilling. If you’re planning to buy some clothes, here are some mistakes to avoid to help save your hard-earned money. 

    Ignoring reviews

     

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    Online reviews act like a stamp of approval on your purchase and its source. They are a useful part of your online shopping. A lack of reviews could increase your likelihood of making a wrong decision. It also helps you to know the right goods to buy. Skipping them and considering them unimportant could cost you, and you might end up with something you don’t like or need.

    Shopping without a plan

     

    A shopping plan or list is your saviour if you are prone to impulse buying. Write down all you need and stick to the plan to escape buyers’ remorse. It’s best to plan accordingly, starting with your needs rather than your wants. Chances are, by the time you are halfway through the list, you might scratch off some items and save money. With a plan, you can avoid gravitating towards the same pieces and adding bulk to your wardrobe. 

    A spree with no budget

     

    Setting a limit before you get excited over new clothes is a smart way to approach shopping. More often than not, one shirt can become five new shirts, while two pairs of shoes become ten pairs. Immediately after the excitement wears off, your credit card alerts remind you how much you have overspent. There is no shame in looking for the best discounts and coupons on your favourite clothing outlet as long as they provide the quality you seek.

    Missing the return policy

     

    Buying clothes in person or online can be tricky at times. Pay attention to the return policy so you can return the clothes for a refund when necessary. You could assume a certain size is the right fit, only to wear it and discover it is not. What if regret kicks in or you find out the quality of the clothing is poor? Without reading the policy, you will be stuck with the item.

    Choosing quantity over quality

     

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    A price slash can be tempting and lead you to buy an item on the spot. You begin to imagine and calculate all the money you will be saving. However, it is not always a good way to shop. Buying a few good quality clothes will help you save a lot as they are long-lasting

    Following trends

     

    Trends have no longevity and are not always for everyone. Investing in them means changing your wardrobe whenever a trend dies out. That is not good news. Going for things you love and wouldn’t mind wearing years down the line is essential. Consider creating your style, so you don’t end up getting sucked into the habit of shopping for new trends all the time.

    Shopping for clothes with these pointers will make your sprees more fun and economical. Don’t skip the return policy, have a plan and a budget, choose quality over quantity and stick to your style. Happy shopping!

  • Small is Great: 7 Ideas to Remodel a Small Bathroom

    Are you looking for ways to transform your small bathroom into an oasis of serenity? Remodeling a cramped little space into one that looks spacious and comfortable might seem impossible, but it can be done! With the right strategies and ideas, you can make your dream bathroom a reality. 

    However, if you live in Tucson, where the cost of living is 4% higher than the national average, and the cost of remodeling a bathroom ranges from $22,000 to $65,000 and higher, you might want some tips that don’t break the bank.

    Well, this is your lucky day!  

    This article provides some useful tips on how to remodel a small bathroom without overhauling the entire area. From clever storage solutions to efficient lighting techniques to repurposed items – there is something for everyone here. So, if you are ready to tackle the challenge head-on, read on for our top ideas to give your tiny bathroom a much-needed facelift.

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    Affordable Shower Replacement:

    One of the best ways to maximize space and add value to your home is by installing a walk-in shower. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide easy access for people with mobility issues or those who want to age in place. 

    Moreover, in a city like Tucson, where 25% of the population is age 60 or older, walk-in showers can improve your home’s value. Look for a well-reputed Tucson walk-in showers company that offer affordable replacement options. These companies will help you choose the perfect design that complements your bathroom’s layout while staying within your budget.

    Moreover, walk-in showers come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. You can customize them to your liking. For instance, if your bathroom has a corner that’s not being put to good use, consider installing a corner shower to maximize every inch of space.

    Brighten Up with Lighting:

    Lighting has a significant impact on the overall look and feel of any room, so why not use it to your advantage? In small bathrooms, natural light is crucial as it makes the space appear larger and more welcoming. If you’re lucky enough to have a window in your bathroom, don’t hide it behind heavy curtains – instead, opt for sheer treatments or frosted glass to allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy.

    If your bathroom doesn’t have a window, don’t worry – you can still achieve that bright and airy feel with the right artificial lighting. Consider installing overhead lights or recessed lighting in the shower area to make it feel more spacious. You can also add accent lighting around mirrors or above the vanity to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

    Repurpose Items:

    Before you head out to the store and spend a fortune on new bathroom fixtures, take a look around your house and see what you can repurpose. For instance, an old wooden ladder can make for a unique towel holder, while mason jars can be used as stylish storage containers for your toiletries. The key is to get creative and think outside the box.

    Furthermore, instead of buying a new vanity, consider refinishing your old one or giving it a fresh coat of paint. Not only will this save you money, but it will also add character and charm to your bathroom.

    Create the Illusion of Height:

    One of the biggest challenges when it comes to remodeling a small bathroom is making it feel taller. Luckily, there are several tricks you can use to create the illusion of height and make your bathroom appear more spacious. For instance, adding vertical stripes or wall panels can draw the eye upwards and make the ceiling seem higher.

    You can also opt for a floating vanity instead of a traditional one with legs to give the illusion of more floor space. When it comes to choosing tiles, go for larger ones instead of small or intricate patterns, as the latter tends to make a space look cluttered and smaller.

    Use a Long Mirror:

    Another great way to make a small bathroom appear bigger is by using a long mirror. Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of depth, making your space seem larger than it actually is. Install a large mirror above your vanity or along one wall to open up the room and add some style.

    You can also consider getting a medicine cabinet with a mirrored surface to not only provide storage space but also add an extra reflective surface to your bathroom.

    Moreover, if you have a window in your bathroom, consider placing the mirror opposite it to reflect natural light and make the room even brighter.

    Add a Splash of Color:

    While white is a popular color choice for small bathrooms, it doesn’t mean you can’t add some color to your space. In fact, using bright and bold colors can add personality and make your bathroom feel more lively and fun. Consider painting one wall in a vibrant hue or adding colorful accessories like towels and rugs to liven up the room.

    If you’re not ready to commit to a bold color, you can use patterns or textures instead. For instance, patterned shower curtains or textured wall tiles can add visual interest without overwhelming the space.

    Utilize Vertical Space:

    When space is limited, it’s essential to make use of every inch available. One way to do this is by utilizing vertical space for storage. Install shelves or cabinets above the toilet or doorframe to store towels, toiletries, and other bathroom essentials. You can also install wall-mounted baskets or hooks for hanging towels or robes.

    Conclusion:

    Remodeling your small bathroom can be daunting, but with the right planning, budgeting, and research, it doesn’t have to be. The ideas discussed in this article require some thought behind their implementation, but if done correctly, they can create a more open space that is practical, stylish and fits your needs. 

    Adding these ideas to an already existing compact setup may feel like a challenge, but doing so has many advantages for your comfort and can even add value when done right. 

    So, start by understanding your goals for renovating and then consult experts to guide you on picking the right elements in order to get the most out of your renovation project.

  • 5 Reasons a Staycation is Better Than Going Abroad

    If you are still trying to decide whether to take a staycation this year or go abroad once again, read this article. There are many great reasons to choose a staycation over a holiday abroad, so we have selected five of them to look at more in-depth. Hopefully, this will help you to decide. 

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    Lower Cost 

    Staycations are great for lots of reasons, but one of them is the overall cost. Instead of buying a flight, accommodation, and tickets for excursions, you only have fuel and food costs to pay, which work out substantially cheaper. You can then re-invest the savings in your family. 

    Holidays abroad cost hundreds of pounds per person, which is money you can save with a staycation. Think of what you could do with hundreds of pounds in your family home. You could install an outdoor patio for the summer or energy-saving windows for the winter months.

    Eco Friendly 

    A staycation is far more eco-friendly than a holiday abroad, so if you are interested in reducing your carbon footprint and passing those same values onto your children, then choose a staycation for your summer holiday. If you don’t have a campervan, you could always rent one. 

    Although a camper van is not the most eco-friendly option – especially if it’s powered by conventional gas – it is still substantially better than an international flight. Additionally, you will be spending less on food and supporting the home economy; it’s a winning situation all around.  

    Whole Family 

    It can be difficult to take the entire family on an overseas holiday; you need a pet sitter. Although it’s possible to take some pets overseas, it can be expensive and costly, but that is not a concern when you take a staycation instead. Staycations are easy and affordable to organise. 

    Imagine your favourite pet rising upfront with you in the passenger seat when you’re on your summer vacation, a happy tongue falling out of their mouth. It’s the best way to make lovely memories for the future and to give your favourite family member a holiday at the same time.   

    RV Storage 

    When you have a camper van for going on staycations with, you need somewhere to store it over the winter. Most people don’t travel in the winter for vacations, the weather isn’t great, and many of the attractions are closed. If you don’t have a garage, then you might need RV storage

    RV storage facilities are accessible, dry, and fully functional. If you need to charge your RV battery, for instance, you can plug it into one of the outlets; there is also 24-hour security to keep your vehicle safe. Use RV storage instead of parking the vehicle in front of your home.

    Home Comforts

    Another reason a staycation is so much better than a holiday abroad is the home comforts. Staycations allow you to stock your campervan full of all the things you love, including soft toys, entertainment, and food items. There is also no need to worry about water quality.