Dornob | Design Ideas Daily

Inspiration = Elevation: Wood Loft Gives Privacy + Storage

Posted: 01 Aug 2013 10:00 AM PDT

box in an apartment

A small, 1100 square foot apartment in Emeryville, California was in need of some creative planning and some rehabilitation. Linda and Peter Benoit worked on the weekends for two years to make this space exactly how they wanted it, and they came up with a spacious, light-filled, unique home that is all theirs.

apartment renovation emeryville

When the couple bought the apartment, it was dark, cramped, and poorly laid out. They lived in the space for a few months to see how they used each part of the apartment, and once they got used to their new home they began designing and constructing their vision – by themselves, and only on weekends.

small emergyville apartment

The highlight of the apartment is the gorgeous Douglas Fir-clad box that dominates the space. Inside the box is a private bedroom. The box also contains a massive bookshelf and plenty of storage – something that is absolutely essential when you live in such a small space. A staircase leads up to the top level of the box, which contains an abundance of clothing storage.

douglas fir emeryville apartment

The main living area is open and full of light thanks to a full glass wall. A pass-through window goes from the kitchen to the living area to facilitate passing objects between the two areas. Additional windows cut into the box allow some of the apartment’s natural light to fill the bedroom.

glass wall renovated apartment

Building up rather than out is the perfect solution to a small space, particularly if you are lucky enough to have 13 foot ceilings like the Benoits. The beautiful wooden box uses wall space that would otherwise be wasted, turning it into a modern and comfortable home.

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Simple Design Feature Solves the Eternal Cup Question

Posted: 31 Jul 2013 04:00 PM PDT

tilt cup

When you put away your freshly-washed glasses, do you place them with the opening up or down? You might put them with the edge down so any leftover water can find its way out, but what if the cup accumulates mildew? You might put them with the edge up, but you stand the chance of finding a little puddle inside next time you pull it out to use it.

mildew in drying cups

The Tilt Cup by designer Huang Shi-hao includes a peculiar feature that eliminates this dilemma. The cup’s edge has a dipped portion, allowing it to tilt slightly. Air circulates under and into the cup so the water can drip down without creating mildew or mustiness.

tilt drying cup

The best part of the design is that the modification doesn’t impede regular use of the object. The weight of the cup is distributed well enough that it is still stable even when turned onto its curved end. The very simple solution also happens to make the glasses look a bit more elegant.