A Vision for Sustainable and Inclusive Living

As part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Expo City Dubai will feature five districts: Expo Downtown, Expo Fields, Expo Hills, Expo Business, and Expo Valley. These areas will blend residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, promoting a diverse and sustainable environment. UNStudio aims to create a model for urban living, where innovation and well-being take centre stage.

Designed for accessibility, each district will offer essential services and amenities within walking distance. The project includes green spaces, plazas, and high- and low-rise buildings to foster a balanced cityscape. Once completed, Expo City Dubai is expected to accommodate 35,000 residents, 37,000 professionals, and 50,000 annual visitors. By integrating low-density residential areas with mixed-use hubs, the development will support “healthy living” and economic growth.

Blending Nature, Innovation, and Urban Legacy

Danish design studio SLA has shaped the landscape and public spaces to align with Expo 2020’s themes of sustainability, mobility, and opportunity. The masterplan features parks, water elements, and plazas to create a nature-driven, interconnected urban experience. A newly planned Expo Forest will enhance biodiversity and integrate the city with its surrounding landscape.

Expo 2020 Dubai, which attracted over 24 million visitors, continues to influence the city’s transformation. The site later hosted COP28 in 2023, reinforcing its role as a global centre for innovation. With Expo City Dubai, the legacy of Expo 2020 will evolve into a thriving urban destination, combining sustainability, economic opportunity, and future-ready design.

The post UNStudio Unveils Plans to Transform Expo City Dubai appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Reviving a Historic Farmhouse with Modern Design

Originally in complete ruin, the buildings have been fully restored, maintaining their historic character while integrating modern comforts. The project was inspired by traditional Menorcan craftsmanship, incorporating handmade fixtures, natural materials, and regional design elements.

Atelier du Pont’s founders, Anne-Cécile Comar and Philippe Croisier, emphasized the delicate balance between preservation and reinvention:

“We preserved the character of both buildings but reimagined the entire space, paying homage to Menorcan savoir-faire while integrating design influences from Africa, the Middle East, and Patagonia, reflecting the homeowners’ global experiences.”

A Light-Filled Interior with Thoughtful Touches

The former barn, which originally had just one arched window, has been transformed into a bright and airy living space. Pivoting glass doors now punctuate the stone facade, echoing the shape of the original livestock entrance while inviting in natural light and countryside views.

In the old farmhouse, three small rooms were merged to create a spacious kitchen, anchored by acid-yellow tiles, inspired by a faded yellow ceiling from the original structure. This vibrant addition stands in contrast to the earthy terracotta flooring and textured stone walls, creating a playful yet harmonious aesthetic.

Blending Natural Materials and Handcrafted Details

Throughout the home, the designers prioritized natural textures and handmade elements, including:

• Iroko wood joinery, enhancing warmth and depth
• Handwoven headboards, celebrating artisanal craftsmanship
• Custom-designed terracotta and rope side tables, adding organic elegance

The renovation also introduced a hammam and a large outdoor swimming pool, further elevating the home’s luxury vacation appeal.

Menorca’s Growing Appeal as a Design Destination

While Menorca remains less commercialized than its neighboring islands Mallorca and Ibiza, it has been gaining attention in recent years, particularly with the arrival of Hauser & Wirth’s renowned art gallery.

With its thoughtful restoration and unique design approach, Estancia San José stands as a new benchmark for vacation homes in Menorca. The owners plan to rent out the property to holidaymakers, offering guests a one-of-a-kind retreat that blends history, craftsmanship, and modern luxury.

The post Menorca Farmhouse Becomes Vacation Home with Yellow Kitchen appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Why MosBuild 2025 is Essential for Industry Professionals

Access a Thriving Market

Russia’s construction market is expanding, with increased demand for innovative materials, sustainable solutions, and interior design expertise. MosBuild provides a platform for companies to showcase their offerings to an engaged and diverse audience.

Connect with Key Decision-Makers

Meet over 60,000 industry professionals from across Russia and 45+ countries, including architects, designers, contractors, and developers. Strengthen your presence in a market known for its rapid growth and vast potential.

Showcase Innovation

From cutting-edge materials to the latest in interior design, MosBuild is the premier stage for demonstrating your innovations to an audience eager to adopt new solutions.

A Proven Platform for Business Growth

With a 29-year legacy, MosBuild has solidified its status as the largest and most influential construction and interiors exhibition in Russia.

• 2024 Highlights:

o 1,400+ exhibitors from different countries and regions showcased their solutions.

o Professionals from 87 Russian regions attended, providing a truly national platform.

o 87% of visitors attended to search for products and services for their business.

Why Russia’s Construction Industry is Your Next Big Opportunity

Russia’s urbanization and infrastructure development initiatives are driving significant investment in construction and interior solutions. With increased emphasis on sustainability and smart technologies, this is the ideal time to position your brand as a leader in this vibrant market.

Tailored Opportunities to Maximize Your ROI

• Live Demonstrations and Workshops: Showcase your products in action and engage with your target audience directly.

• Networking Opportunities: Build valuable connections with developers, architects, and key players shaping the industry’s future.

• Market Insights and Trends: Stay ahead of the curve with exclusive access to industry trends and market data.

Join Us at MosBuild 2025

Whether you’re looking to grow your business, connect with decision-makers, or explore the latest innovations, MosBuild 2025 is the event you cannot afford to miss.

Dates: April 1–4, 2025

Venue: Crocus Expo, Moscow

Learn More: mosbuildexpo.com/

Seize this opportunity to elevate your brand and drive growth in Russia’s thriving construction and interiors market.

The post Build Connections and Drive Growth at MosBuild 2025 – Eurasia’s Premier Buildingand Interiors Exhibition appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Organised by dmg events, IFS will run from 18-20 February and bring together global and local brands with interior designers, architects, project owners, and fit-out contractors from across Saudi Arabia’s vibrant Western Province. Cities such as Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, and Tabuk are proving thriving hubs of design activity driven by government initiatives and giga-projects spanning hospitality, residential, and commercial developments worth in excess of US$1,452 billion.

Saudi Arabia is experiencing spiralling expansion of its hotel and accommodation sector, aligning with Vision 2030’s ambitious targets. By 2030, the Kingdom aims to deliver 320,000 new hotel rooms at a total development cost of US$37.8bn. Key cities such as Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah are at the forefront of this growth with plans for new luxury hotels and resorts to cater to both domestic and international tourists. Currently, 66 per cent of Saudi Arabia’s hotel inventory is in the luxury segment, which is projected to grow to 72 per cent by 2030.

“Saudi Arabia is experiencing an unprecedented transformation, and Jeddah stands as its gateway to innovation and cultural heritage,” said Jasmeet Bakshi, Vice President of Design and Hospitality at dmg events. “As the pathway to Mecca and a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030, Jeddah is progressing with ambitious developments. From the Jeddah Central Project and the Red Sea Project to the iconic NEOM, skylines are being reshaped, and a new era of sustainable, innovative living is being ushered in and spearheading unmatched growth in the design and construction industries.”

With more than $74.8 billion in construction projects underway, combined with a dynamic religious tourism sector, Jeddah is becoming a canvas for bold architectural ideas, state-of-the-art interiors, and cutting-edge design, making it an ideal location for the three day trade show.

Some local exhibitors include Al Aqeel, Foamco, Al Guthmi, Al Rugaib Furniture, Creative Closets, Al Nassaj, Al Sourayi, Majestic, Damons, and Back Care whereas some international exhibitors include Standard Carpets, Trend Middle East, Surfaces Furnishing LLC, and Zuma Design Consultants.

IFS Jeddah will also feature an IFSpeaks where industry leaders, creative minds, and visionary thinkers will explore design’s past, present, and future through immersive sessions. The industry-led programme has been curated with input from a steering committee of some of Saudi Arabia’s most eminent and emerging interior designers and architects.

The line-up so far includes Amani Al Ibrahim, Partner and Executive Director of Kristina Zanic Consultants; Dr Karima Hemida, Head of Design at Jeddah International College; avant garde architect Ma’an Bajnaid from M3N DESIGN + ARCHITECTURE; and distinguished Saudi interior designer Iman Abuljadayel, from In Detail Design Center who has already made a significant mark in the world of luxury design. Each will explore among other things heritage-inspired style modernity, innovative fabrication such as 3D printing, space transformation through textiles, and sustainable design trends shaping the future.

Each day, we will delve into different design facets. Day One will celebrate Saudi heritage and explore how traditional aesthetics influence modern interiors, while Day Two will focus on the present, where we delve in innovative flexible workspaces, redefining human living and the use of AI. The final day will look to the future, empowering Saudi’s next generation of designers and building the future of Jeddah.

More than 5,000 influential buyers along with 100 exhibitors and specifiers are expected to attend IFS Jeddah, representing a range of key expansion sectors such as hospitality, residential, and commercial interiors.

“IFS reflects Saudi Arabia’s transformation bringing together the finest local and international brands alongside architects, designers, and project owners seeking solutions for the ambitious developments reshaping the Western Province. The event is not just about showcasing products; it is about creating a space where ideas, culture, and innovation converge. Jeddah’s unique identity as a city of heritage and progress and an up-and-coming global design leader makes it the perfect IFS host,” added Bakshi.

The post Inaugural Interiors & Furniture Show in Jeddah Next Month Will Provide Unparalleled Platform for Western Province appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Sustainable Design Meets Sculptural Form

Copper Bottom, a self-build project by Adrian James for his family, is located on Harcourt Hill in Oxford, surrounded by wildflower meadows. The two-storey house follows a simple cuboid form, covered by a sculptural copper shell that provides shelter and minimizes energy demand. The design aims to achieve a high sustainability benchmark.

“The starting points were a compact form, a roof maximising southerly aspect for solar panels, and an envelope which sheltered the windows from high sun,” James explained. “These primary moves established the basics, then it was a case of sculpting this basic form to create something uplifting and resonant.”

The Origami-Inspired Copper Shell

The defining feature of Copper Bottom is its “origami-esque” shell, which includes an angled roof that cantilevers out to block high summer sun while allowing low winter rays. Creased bulges on the east and west sides of the house create deep reveals for the windows, enhancing energy efficiency.

On top, two “ears” form ventilation stacks to draw in cool air at night and expel hot air accumulated during the day. James described the form as having “subtle hints of something zoomorphic and something mechanistic,” capturing a sense of dynamism.

A Self-Sustaining Power Station

The roof of Copper Bottom features 37 photovoltaic panels, generating more energy than the house requires. The house is zero-carbon in operation and is expected to offset its embodied energy. “The intention is for the house to be a habitable power station – actually something we want all our designs to be,” said James.

The superstructure is made of prefabricated timber panels with lightweight timber trusses supporting a plywood skin. An air-source heat pump reduces the energy demand for water heating, and the focus on airtightness improves energy efficiency.

Material Choices for Durability and Aesthetics

Copper was chosen for its durability, low maintenance, and sustainability. The green-patinated copper was pretreated in a factory to achieve a verdigris finish, harmonising with the surrounding greenery. The interior features white walls, a central double-height gallery space, and a large textured brick feature wall.

The flooring combines large format porcelain tiles on the ground floor with stained oak joinery and flooring upstairs. Large windows offer expansive views of the surrounding countryside and the spires of central Oxford.

Copper Bottom represents a blend of contemporary architectural design, sustainability, and a deep respect for the natural environment.

The post Adrian James Architects Unveils Origami-Inspired Copper House appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Revitalizing History with Contemporary Design

The Church of Nostra Signora della Costa has a rich history, dating back to its 14th-century consecration. Over time, the building experienced several modifications, including floor lowering, the removal of marble cladding, and the addition of a plain concrete slab. By the mid-20th century, urban development and neglect had left the church in disrepair.

Caarpa’s renovation project aimed to restore and repurpose the church, introducing a contemporary steel structure known as the cantoria. This choir gallery, positioned near the entrance, is designed to provide a private mezzanine overlooking the main hall while complementing the ornate frescoes and stucco decorations.

Cantoria: A Blend of Old and New

The cantoria was crafted from micro-perforated metal panels, finished in a powder blue to match the church’s walls. The structure includes a spiral staircase that leads to the mezzanine, offering visitors a closer look at the preserved 18th-century frescoes and views from a large trefoil window.

The design of the cantoria contrasts with the church’s classical architecture, yet its two curved capitals subtly nod to classical styles, blending new and old elements seamlessly. Caarpa carefully balanced the client’s request for additional space with the need to preserve the church’s original character, introducing new perspectives while maintaining the building’s historic integrity.

Preserving the Past While Embracing the Future

Caarpa’s work in the presbytery and apse involved restoring the frescoes and stuccoes, cleaning them of patina, while also exposing traces of the church’s 20th-century history. The church’s raw pastel walls and missing plaster have been left visible, intentionally highlighting the building’s struggles over time.

The studio’s restoration efforts include treating the stripped altars with lime putty to reveal their original form and replacing the flooring with slate tiles arranged in linear patterns with borders every three rows.

Founded in Genoa in 2017, Caarpa is known for its innovative approach to blending historical architecture with contemporary design. Other notable projects include modern interventions in a historic provostry in Prague and the conversion of a church in Transylvania into a guesthouse.

The post Caarpa Transforms Italian Church with Mezzanine appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Limestone House, a five-bedroom property in Edinburgh, underwent a significant renovation led by architecture studio Archer + Braun. Originally unlisted, the property gained listed status during the design process, prompting the architects to adapt their approach. The resulting design integrates a modern limestone-clad extension that complements the historic structure’s sandstone material.

The single-storey rear extension houses a kitchen, dining, and living area, offering expansive glazing and uninterrupted views of the garden. “The main concept was to propose a contemporary modernist extension inspired by the tones and materiality of the period property while providing unique spaces and views,” explained studio co-founder Stuart Archer. Portland stone was chosen for its compatibility with the original sandstone and its durability in Scotland’s wet climate.

Separated from the original home by a slim green corridor, the extension retains views of the building’s historic walls through carefully positioned openings. At the front, a two-storey structure replaces the garage and includes a guest suite. Both the extension and new structure feature metal roofing, complementing the natural aesthetic.

The interior of the extension embraces minimalism, with bright open-plan spaces emphasizing views of the surrounding garden. Wooden steps address the sloping topography, creating a smooth transition between the house and outdoor space. Inside, storage, a bathroom, and access to a courtyard are positioned behind the main living area, with stairs connecting to the original home through a study and library.

Key updates to the original house include turning the old kitchen into a snug and preserving decorative features such as cornices and panelling. These historical elements were refurbished and redecorated in neutral tones, enhancing their charm.

The post Archer + Braun Adds Modernist Extension to Limestone House appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Apple’s latest retail space, the Apple Miami Worldcenter, will officially open this Friday, marking a significant milestone for the tech giant. This store is Apple’s first to feature extensive mass-timber construction. The structure combines a modern take on Miami’s art deco architectural style with sustainable building materials, such as locally sourced timber and energy-efficient features. Designed by Apple’s in-house team, the space offers an inviting and eco-conscious environment, showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainability.

The design of the Apple Miami Worldcenter focuses on creating a dynamic and light-filled space. BJ Siegel, Apple’s retail design lead, explained the inspiration behind the project: “We were inspired by softer, undulating surfaces and the articulation of mass found in the local art deco architecture to create a lighter, more dynamic result.” The curved roof and sculpted plaster walls are nods to the city’s iconic art deco buildings, while the use of mass timber in the construction helps reduce the carbon footprint of the store.

Inside, the store’s layout includes Apple’s signature tables, some of which are lowered for accessibility. Oak framework lines the space, incorporating areas like the Genius Bar and product shelves. The store also features an area dedicated to demonstrating the Vision Pro headset. In line with Apple’s sustainability ethos, materials like biomass-based terrazzo flooring and a wood structural wall system were used, reducing environmental impact without compromising on aesthetics.

Apple Miami Worldcenter embraces biophilic design, integrating nature into the space. A densely planted public area surrounds the building, while the roof is transformed into a raised garden, blending seamlessly with the lush South Florida landscape. “Our latest store designs are an expression of Apple’s values through its emphasis on the environment, accessibility, and customer-centred experiences,” Siegel said. The design balances modern architecture with nature, creating a space that invites both customers and the community to engage with the natural world.

The post Apple Unveils First Mass-Timber Apple Store in Miami appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

Sigla Studio’s renovation of this 150-square-metre apartment in Barcelona’s Eixample district focused on preserving the original Catalan modernist elements. The design includes intricate hydraulic mosaic tiles, which were carefully rehabilitated, with missing tiles sourced to maintain their integrity. Sigla Studio co-founder Bernat Riera explained, “These features, emblematic of the period, were meticulously preserved and restored.”

The studio added contemporary elements to improve functionality and comfort. A large wooden dining table designed by the studio features a marine plywood structure and Roman travertine marble top, placed beneath a silver pendant lamp. The living area maintains the mosaic floor tiles, with a speckled black sofa dividing the dining and living spaces.

One of the most significant interventions was the opening up of the kitchen, allowing for better flow and natural light. The kitchen now features a vaulted ceiling and red Alicante marble floors that contrast with steel kitchen cabinets, creating a striking aesthetic.

In the bedrooms, the design uses a pared-back colour palette to complement the vibrancy of the restored mosaic floors. Sigla Studio also divided the main bedroom into two using a custom-built furniture piece, respecting the original layout while accommodating the needs of the modern family.

The bathrooms incorporate red marble sinks and detailing, harmonizing with the original floors and offering a seamless transition from the traditional to the modern.

The post Sigla Studio Restores 1900s Barcelona Apartment Features appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.

A Creative Homage to Early Tech

Standing five feet tall, the iMirror closely mimics the structure of the now-discontinued iPod Nano, with a design that blends functionality and aesthetic appeal. The circular remote at the bottom retains its classic white color, but with a unique twist: the top function now reads “Drought.” On the mirror’s interface, the song displayed on all colorways is titled “Find Yourself”, with the top of the screen reading “Now Living” and the back featuring “iReflect” alongside Drought’s logo.

This nostalgia-driven piece is part of Drought’s broader exploration of early tech influences in modern design. Previous projects include a Napster-inspired collection featuring a bag, candle, and bracelet, all paying homage to the golden age of the internet.

Limited Availability and Pricing

Priced at $375 USD, only 200 units of the iMirror will be available for purchase. The exclusive restock will go live on Drought’s official website on Friday, January 24, at 12 p.m. PST. No password is required to access the drop, making it accessible to all fans of retro-inspired design.

This limited release is expected to generate significant demand, appealing to collectors and design enthusiasts alike.

The post Drought’s iMirror Revives iPod Nano Design for Limited Restock appeared first on Magzoid Magazine.