Pour yourself a fresh cup of coffee – Knoll’s latest lineup is one you’ll want to savor slowly. Unveiled as the Knoll Pavilion at Milan Design Week 2025, the heritage brand’s newest suite of collaborations brings together a who’s who of design visionaries, each offering their own take on craft, comfort, and form. Featuring sculptural seating, finely crafted wood pieces, reimagined icons, and playful, lounge-worthy designs, each piece stands on its own, yet together they showcase Knoll’s ongoing commitment to championing the brightest minds and reinventing familiar furniture typologies. Biboni Sofa by Sharon Johnston and Mark Lee of Johnston Marklee Looking for that just right balance of relaxed yet engaged? Enter the Biboni Sofa by Sharon Johnston and Mark Lee of Johnston Marklee. It brings sculptural softness to seating, its rounded folds shaped into an enveloping, almost anthropomorphic form. Designed with an architectural mindset, every detail enhances its relationship to the surrounding space – best experienced floating in the round, as part of a constellation of elements. “It wants to be a good friend,” says Johnston. “We like that it can be giving in that way.” Balancing structure and comfort, Biboni is at once formal and informal, soft yet supportive. Biboni Sofa by Sharon Johnston and Mark Lee of Johnston Marklee Biboni Sofa by Sharon Johnston and Mark Lee of Johnston Marklee, D’Urso Occasional Tables by Joseph D’Urso Muecke Wood Collection by Jonathan Muecke Architect and sculptor Jonathan Muecke doesn’t hide wood joinery the way others might feel compelled to. Instead, he celebrates it, boldly showcasing end grain and structural connections as defining features in the Muecke Wood Collection. Muecke focuses on the materiality of the pieces and the spatial relationship they have with the room. “I don’t think about chairs and tables as objects,” he says. “I think about a chair in terms of material – as a marker of human scale, a physical record in relational space.” Perron Bun Lounge Chair by Willo Perron With its plush, oversized cushion seemingly floating above a slim sculptural base, the Perron Bun Lounge Chair by Willo Perron blurs the line between lounge chair, sofa, and bed. Its playful, cloud-like form offers an ultra-relaxed take on seating, balancing softness and lightness with a performative edge. Designed for sinking in, stretching out, or curling up, it’s comfort at its most inviting – and a little unexpected. “I come from pop culture and music, and my work is always a little bit performative,” says Perron. Perron Bun Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Willo Perron D’Urso Occasional Table by Joseph D’Urso A celebrated minimalist, Joseph D’Urso first designed the D’Urso Occasional Table for Knoll in 1980, and now it’s reissued in three sizes. Its sleek silhouette pairs industrial materials with thoughtful function, from polished steel finishes to discreet casters. With a lower open shelf that acts as a second tabletop, clearing the top surface of clutter, it’s a small piece of architecture that seamlessly balances form and utility. D’Urso Occasional Tables by Joseph D’Urso The Barcelona Collection by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Lastly, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Collection, originally introduced in 1929, gets a fresh update with new fabric upholstery options and an ultra matte-black frame. The timeless elegance of the iconic chair, stool, and couch is reimagined with subtle shifts in materiality, bringing even more versatility to Mies’s famous “less is more” philosophy. The Barcelona Collection by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe Year after year, Knoll continues to build on its legacy of collaborating with design’s leading voices to create pieces that balance bold ideas, unique points of view, and timeless appeal. From sculptural seating to thoughtful reissues, each release reflects the brand’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and shaping the way we live with design. To learn more about Knoll’s latest 2025 collections and the Knoll Pavilion, visit knoll.com. Photography courtesy of Knoll.

When Brooklyn-based designer Virginia Sin launched her home goods brand, SIN, in 2007, it was with a simple mission: to bring warmth and intention into everyday living. Fast forward to today, that mission is scaling up in a big way. At ICFF 2025, SIN will debut its most expansive lighting launch yet – introducing the OBEL and STRIA collections, alongside new additions to its beloved GAMI series. Drawing inspiration from Egyptian obelisks, heritage textiles, and the delicate art of origami, the new releases transform centuries-old craft traditions into contemporary forms that are equal parts sculptural and soulful. It’s a major milestone for the brand, which has built a loyal following for its handmade, coil-building ceramic and mixed material designs. Inspired by the ancient practice of hand-weaving, the STRIA collection evokes the intentionality, care, and process behind heritage textiles. This series of sculptural wall sconces reinterprets the soft striations of fabric into rhythmic ceramic forms that beautifully filter light. STRIA also celebrates the many connections inherent in both ceramics and textile work – between material and maker, form and function, earth and home. Handmade in SIN’s Brooklyn studio, the sconces are fully ADA-compliant and designed with high-end residential and hospitality areas in mind, providing designers with a way to shape spaces that feel layered, meaningful, and inviting. Stria 3 Sconce in Bone Stria 3 Sconce in Obsidian Stria 5 Sconce in Graphite Stria 5 Sconce in Bone Stria 4 Sconce in Obsidian Stria 4 Sconce in Bone Obel Osen Table Lamps With the OBEL collection, SIN turns to the monumental geometry of hand-hewn Egyptian obelisks, reimagining these ancient forms as sculptural table lamps. Each piece is grounded and architectural, crafted through a slow, deliberate hand-building process that honors the raw beauty of clay. This also marks the first time SIN introduces shaded designs, creating a gentle contrast between soft and hard materials. By bringing history into the contemporary present, OBEL offers lighting that feels both timeless and striking, anchoring spaces with a quiet sense of presence and reverence. Obel Osen Table Lamp in Obsidian Obel Osen Table Lamp in Obsidian Obel Gio Table Lamp in Bone Obel Gio Table Lamp in Sand Obel Gio Table Lamp in Obsidian The GAMI collection returns this season with an expanded lineup of pendants, flush mounts, and sconces that continue to explore the balance between fluidity and structure. Inspired by the art of origami, each piece is crafted from a single sheet of clay, folded into sculptural forms that feel both delicate and solid. With its extended range, GAMI brings a fresh versatility to both residential and hospitality spaces, offering a poetic way to express light, form, and shadow. Gami Shayd Pendant in Sand Gami Shayd Pendant in Sand With OBEL, STRIA, and GAMI, SIN continues to push the boundaries of clay, drawing on storied traditions to create collections that are as visually striking as they are meaningful. Don’t miss the chance to experience these sculptural designs in person at ICFF 2025 and see how timeless craft and contemporary design come together in ceramic. Gami Shun Flush Mount in Sand Gami Double Shai Sconce in Sand Gami Double Shai Sconce in Sand Gami Double Shai Sconce in Sand To learn more about the OBEL, STRIA, and GAMI collections, visit virginiasin.com. Photography courtesy of Virginia Sin and SIN.

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd" Zaha Hadid Architects has unveiled a new mixed-use development that features spacious balconies inspired by nature on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.Called Oystra, the 128,000 square meter development consists of 950 apartments with one to four bedrooms, duplexes, penthouses, and waterfront villas. The seaside complex offers a wealth of dining, retail, and recreational options.Image © RedvertexWith a population expected to increase by 55% by 2030, Ras Al Khaimah is one of the UAE's fastest-growing emirates, necessitating the construction of an extra 45,000 dwellings to accommodate future demand, as Zaha Hadid Architects explained. The tourism industry in Ras Al Khaimah is also expanding at an unprecedented rate; by 2030, the emirate is expected to receive 3.5 million visitors annually, up from 100,000 in 2013, the firm added.Al Marjan Island's infrastructure is being developed as a top destination in the United Arab Emirates. The island's 23 kilometers of shoreline, which includes 7.8 kilometers of white sand beaches, extend 4.5 kilometers into the Arabian Sea. The island, which has parks, marinas, spa centers, and entertainment venues, is located 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 25 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah Airport.Image © RedvertexThe development's flowing geometries, which include expansive balconies and terraces sculpted to mimic the undulating patterns shaped by waves in sand, were designed by Zaha Hadid Architects to provide over 75% of its units with unhindered views of the sea. These balconies protect the interiors from direct sunshine while acting as smooth additions to each apartment's living area.Within its 42,000 square meter plot, which includes landscaped gardens, courtyards, swimming pools, and a beach club with a view of the bay, are Oystra's sculptural 20-story waterfront towers. The 360° infinity pool and rooftop restaurant offer expansive views of the Arabian Sea and Al Marjan Island.Image © RedvertexThrough this protected waterfront path, which is maintained cool by the predominant north-westerly winds that blow inland from the sea, inhabitants have direct access to the tree-lined coastal promenade of Al Marjan Island.Digital mapping analysis optimized the design's external solar shade and improved natural ventilation, while environmental simulations maximized efficiencies in site conditions, structure, and orientation. In addition to an insulating space between the building envelope and the project's façades that get direct sunlight, the development will incorporate seawater-based cooling. In the arid climate of Ras Al Khaimah, these tactics will improve interior comfort while lowering the energy requirement for cooling.Image © Redvertex"Our collaboration with Richmind is the result of shared ambition and creative dialogue. Oystra’s sculptural design is inspired by the natural energies of the sea and the sky, responding to its environment with a sense of dynamism and openness," said Christos Passas, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects."Oystra reflects our passion for visionary design, lifestyle innovation, and a bold approach to shaping spaces that inspire and endure through time. Working with Zaha Hadid Architects has been both a privilege and a purposeful choice. We share a vision rooted in bold thinking, design excellence, and a deep commitment to originality," said Mohammad Rafiee, Chief Executive Officer of Richmind. Image © Redvertex"Al Marjan has become a canvas for exceptional developments, and Oystra is a strong addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s narrative, reflecting the forward-thinking developments that align perfectly with Al Marjan Island's ambition and vision," said Abdulla Al Abdouli, Chief Executive Officer of Marjan.Image © PyxidZaha Hadid Architects recently completed a spaceship-like science and technology museum in Shenzhen. In addition, the firm unveiled design for a new cityzen tower inspired by Tbilisi's rolling hills in Georgia. Project factsClient: RichmindArchitect: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA)Design: Patrik Schumacher, Christos PassasZHA Project Director: Christos PassasZHA Project Associates: Mei-Ling Lin, Joao Bravo Da Costa, Eider FernandezZHA Project Architects: Sattor Jabbor, Branko Svarcer, Kourosh Asgar IraniZHA Project Leads: Ben Kikkawa, Ekaterina Smirnova, Gaganjit Singh, Anri Gyoloyan, Nassim Eshaghi, Maria BystrovaZHA Project Team: Dahyun Kim, Elizabeth Konstantinidou, Shizhao Yang, Mirella Dourambei, Abdullah Ummer Farook, Ali Rais, Avneesh Rathor, Theodoros Tamvakis, Danae Mavridi, Canon LeeZHA Competition Project Director: Christos PassasZHA Competition Associates: Joao Bravo Da Costa, Mei-Ling LinZHA Competition Project Architects: Ben Kikkawa, Maria Bystrova,ZHA Competition Project Leads: Dieter Matuschke, Akis Polykandriotis, Anri Gyoloyan, Avneesh RathorZHA Competition Team: Abdullah Ummer Farook, Ali Rais, Dahyun Kim, Shizhao Yang, Mirella Dourambei, Theodoros Tamvakis, Gaganjit SinghZHA BIM Team: David Fogliano, Michael O’Reilly, Muaz MasriZHA Environment & Sustainability Team: Carlos Bausa, Bahaa Alnassrallah, Shibani Choudhury, Aleksander Mastalski, Aditya Ambare, Disha Shetty, Abhilash Menon, Jing XuConsultantsExecutive Architect: Dewan Architects and Engineers, DubaiFaçade Engineering: Koltay FacadesM&E Engineering: Samadhin AssociatesTransport Consultant: RMC, DubaiFire Engineer: SHE, DubaiLandscape Consultant: Cracknell LandscapesLighting Design: FPOVInterior Design: HBA, LondonSignage and Wayfinding: TDCWaste Management: Climatize, DubaiThe top image in the article © MIR.> via Zaha Hadid Architects

Susan Clark, whose singular vision for Radnor has reshaped the landscape of contemporary design curation, stands at the threshold of the gallery’s most ambitious chapter yet – Evolution in Form – a sun-drenched penthouse perched 70 floors above Manhattan within the soaring Sutton Tower. Her influence on how we experience design in residential contexts has been transformative, creating dialogue between object and space that transcends traditional gallery paradigms. The transition from previous locations to this light-filled, 5,000-square-foot penthouse marks more than a change of address. It represents a conceptual shift in Clark’s approach to presenting contemporary design. She has deliberately embraced a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic that responds to the architectural vocabulary of Thomas Juul-Hansen’s residential tower – now the tallest on Manhattan’s East Side at 850 feet. “I’m delighted to open our newest location at Sutton Tower with this new collection of works,” states Susan Clark. “In many ways, Evolution in Form reflects not only our exploration of new creative horizons with our designers, but also our desire to create an evolving dialogue between design and architecture. The spaces we show in give us specific problems to solve, and specific potential to fulfill. It’s a more meaningful exercise for designers, and a more relevant way to show designs. At Sutton Tower, the collection’s exploration of soft, textured materiality and authentic, personal design language comes into a new focus.” The light spills across the unvarnished surface of Toshio Tokunaga’s newest dining table, catching in the shallow ripples of hand-planed Japanese Zelkova wood. This 350-year-old timber, touched only by traditional Kanna techniques rather than modern machinery, holds centuries of growth within its grain. The exhibition’s centerpiece, Sebastian Cox’s Sendal collection, stands as a powerful testament to the potential of regenerative design practices. Cox, whose work exclusively uses wild-sourced British wood and natural finishes, has created pieces that hover between substantiality and lightness. The collection’s armoire, credenza, and console table feature an undercut base that creates a floating effect, reducing the visual weight of even the most massive forms. Evolution in Form brings together work that explores the tension between tradition and innovation across materials and techniques. The collection most notably includes Radnor’s first venture into outdoor furniture – the Pausa sofa collection by longtime collaborators Bunn Studio. These sculptural rattan pieces with their generous proportions and enveloping forms connect historical craft traditions with contemporary sensibilities. For more information on Radnor’s Evolution in Form, visit radnor.co. Photography by William Jess Laird.

Pictured above: A media room designed by Robin Henry, featuring an RT Facts lamp with custom shade.Let’s be honest: lampshades don’t always get the love they deserve. But this small design detail can totally transform the look and feel of a room. The right shade can elevate a lamp from basic to brilliant, soften a space with warm ambient light, or make a bold statement all on its own. And now that lampscaping—the idea of using multiple lamps (table, floor, and task) to layer light throughout a space instead of relying on harsh overheads—is officially a thing, knowing how to pick the best shade for your lamp feels more essential than ever. It's all about creating ambiance and mood, and it starts with choosing the right topper.Whether you're going classic, playful, minimalist, or maximalist, there’s a shade out there just waiting to light up your life. (See what we did there?) Don’t be afraid to mix and match lamp bases and shades for a custom, curated look. A sculptural base with a pleated or patterned shade? Yes, please. A sleek brass lamp with a bold-colored linen shade? Instant upgrade. Lampshades are an easy, affordable way to refresh your decor without a full-on overhaul—so have fun with it. Just don’t forget to consider size, shape, and material to make sure your lamp’s glow-up is as good as it gets. We asked interior designers to enlighten us (we really couldn’t help ourselves) on how to pick the perfect lampshade and ensure the scale is on point.Related StoriesChoose a SizeNicolas GourguechonFollowing the rule of thumb, the shade-to-base ratio of this entryway lamp in designer Devin Kirk’s own home is perfectly balanced.Amy NeunsingerTwo light sources mean two different shades and fittings in the Quadrille Arbre de Matisse adorned guest room of this home designed by Mark D. Sikes.Size definitely matters—at least when it comes to lampshades. First things first: proportions. A too-small shade looks awkward, and a too-large one can overwhelm the base. As a rule of thumb, according to interior designer and author Lauren Liess, "a lampshade should be roughly two-fifths of the total height of the full lamp, including the shade." So, if your lamp is 30 inches tall, aim for a 20-inch shade. That said, “there’s always an exception,” Liess adds. Retro styles often play with scale and can look fantastic with oversized or unusually shaped shades. A tall shade on a short, squat base? Totally works—just embrace the proportions. Width-wise, the shade should typically match the height of the base. And yes, it should always cover the bulb socket and any hardware. This is not the time for exposed necks. Speaking of hardware, not all shades work with all lamps, so fittings matter. The most common is a spider fitter, which works with lamps that have a harp and finial. If your lamp doesn’t have a harp, try an UNO fitter (it attaches directly to the socket). And for chandeliers or small accent lamps, clip-on shades are a quick and easy option. Just make sure whatever you use sits level and snug—wobbly lamp syndrome is never chic.Related StoryChoose a ShapeNathan SchroderA crisp white drum adorns a statement lamp base, making it stand out against the charcoal draperies in the dining room of this Dallas home designed by Studio Thomas James.Eric PiaseckiA stark white sculptural base paired with a simple tapered shade stands out while still letting the faux moiré painted walls shine in this Westchester County, NY, farmhouse designed by Robin Henry.Lampshades come in all shapes, and each one sets a different tone. Drum shades—those modern cylindrical beauties—are perfect for both contemporary and midcentury styles. “The drum is versatile enough for both modern and traditional interiors,” says Liess. Whitney Tingle, director of interior design at Christopher Architecture & Interiors, loves using oversize drum shades in linen to soften bold, sculptural bases with understated texture. Empire, coolie, and other tapered shade styles, which slope from a narrow top to a wide base, are timeless and elegant. Liess recommends them for chunkier, rounder lamp bases—think genie bottles or spherical silhouettes. For something romantic and soft, look no further than bell shades. Their graceful curves bring a vintage-inspired, feminine touch to more traditional spaces. Nicolas GourguechonFor his own home, designer Devin Kirk matched a square lamp shade with a vintage, metallic base of similar shape for an impactful lighting detail in this sophisticated family room.Lisa Romerein/Otto"In one of my favorite master bedrooms, this patterned shade adds dimension and an unexpected wit while staying traditional." — Michael S. SmithOn the other end of the spectrum, square and rectangular shades lend structure and sharpness, and they’re best used on lamps that also have a square or rectangular shape, according to Liess. Short on space? Oval shades are a smart solution. They’re ideal for lamps with distinct front-and-back silhouettes and add a polished feel without taking up extra room. And then, there are pleated shades—the darlings of traditional design. “They make a space feel decorated,” says Liess, who calls them an “old-guard designers’ staple.” Tingle recommends customizing pleated shades with color and pattern for maximum personality, especially when paired with a simple brass base.Related StoryChoose a MaterialFrancesco Lagnese"Zuber wallpaper is too expensive to not use every square inch of it, so we made shades from leftover scraps." — Tom ScheererBrie WilliamsBasic white lampshades were swapped for custom Euro-style “skirted” versions in a striped pattern that echoes the ridges of the lamp base in this primary bedroom by Heidi Woodman.Material doesn’t just determine the look of your shade—it defines the quality and style of the light itself. Paper shades are minimal and clean, often found in Scandinavian and Japandi-inspired interiors. They're especially charming in pendant or hanging styles. Designer Tom Scheerer has even used leftover wallpaper to create custom paper shades, giving his space a "surrealist touch." Fabric shades—linen, cotton, or silk—are the most versatile. Linen and cotton diffuse light beautifully, making any space feel soft and inviting. Silk ups the drama, casting a flattering, luxe glow that's perfect for bedrooms or formal living areas. These materials can work with virtually any shape or lamp style. Lampshade skirts, like those seen in interior designer Heidi Woodman's space, are also a fun option when using fabric for shades.Want something a little more modern and edgy? Metal shades cast directional light that's great for task lighting—perfect on a desk or reading lamp. Just a heads up from Liess: Metal shades can heat up, so skip them in nurseries or kid-centric zones. Or you can add unexpected texture and an instant coastal feel with a shade made out of rattan. Related StoryChoose a Color and PatternStephen KarlischIn her own home, designer Shazalynn Cavin-Winfrey used Coquette fabric by Kelly Wearstler on the walls, bed, and lampshades for the lighting on the bookshelf, while the bedside lamps are paired with custom lampshades from Shades from the Midnight Sun.Simon Watson"I love Pierre Frey’s Le Manach Balmoral and, inspired by French bedrooms, I used it all over. Custom-covered shades add so much." — Ellen NivenThis is where you get to play. If your lamp base is doing most of the talking, stick with a neutral shade—think white, beige, or soft gray. These tones complement almost everything without drawing too much attention. But if you want your shade to be the star, don’t hold back. Patterned or brightly colored shades can instantly energize a room. Want to go full-on, pattern-drenching maximalist? Try matching your shade fabric to drapery, pillows, or even wallpaper. “It becomes more than just a lighting element,” says Tingle. “It transforms into a cohesive design feature, seamlessly tying into the overall narrative of the space.” Frank Frances StudioDesigner Courtney McLeod paired a Broome lampshade with a Wildwood lamp for this sultry primary bedroom in her clients’ downtown New York apartment.And yes, we’re here for the moody, sexy glow of a dark shade too. It’s perfect for intimate nooks or elegant bedrooms where atmosphere is everything.Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok.

Mike Rupp (left) and Shawn Henderson debut Pyrion, a new lighting collection available through Hostler | Burrows.With the debut of Pyrion, designer Shawn Henderson and Mike Rupp of Rupp Studio introduce a lighting collection that transforms tactile yet minimal table and floor lamps into collectible design pieces. Rooted in sculptural minimalism, each piece takes the form of a pyramid, its surface hand-finished with a spray metal technique that mimics the rich patina of cast bronze. Complementing this architectural form are handwoven shades from Colombian atelier VERDI, crafted from Yaré vine and metallic threads. They infuse each fixture with a tactile contrast of earthiness and refinement.The collaboration is a study in balance, shaped by a shared design language. “Pyrion came out of a shared love for restraint and richness—how one shape, when made with intention, can feel both powerful and quiet,” says Rupp.Ethan HerringtonThe pyramid informs the collection’s hand-polished lamp bases and custom shades created in partnership with VERDI.In this exclusive Q&A, Henderson, a member of ELLE DECOR’s A-List, discusses the origins of Pyrion, his obsession with proportion, and how a unique design tête-à-tête helped create this notable collaboration. Available exclusively through Hostler | Burrows in both New York City and Los Angeles.ELLE DECOR: HOW DID YOU FIRST BECOME ACQUAINTED WITH MIKE? AND WHAT INSPIRED A LIGHTING-SPECIFIC COLLECTION?Shawn Henderson: Mike and I have been friends for many years and have collaborated on design throughout much of that time. Casual conversations gradually turned into a shared curiosity about doing something creative together. We both feel there’s a real void in the market for special lighting, so it felt like the right place to begin—designing lamps that sit at the intersection of architecture, sculpture, and atmosphere, all things we’re naturally drawn to in our work.Ethan HerringtonPyrion is made up of three distinctive lamps in three shade colors. Pictured above is the Pyrion Table Lamp.WHAT WERE YOUR MAIN SOURCES OF INSPIRATION FOR THE COLLECTION? We kept coming back to the idea of a singular, architectural shape—something clean and elemental, but not cold. We were thinking about ancient forms, like pyramids and obelisks, and how to reinterpret that kind of presence in a way that feels modern and quiet.HOW DID YOU BOTH BEGIN THE DESIGN PROCESS? It started with a shape—literally a triangle. We sketched, talked through proportions, passed ideas back and forth. It was very collaborative but intuitive. We were both aligned in wanting to do less, not more—to find strength in simplicity and let the materials do the work.AND, THIS LED TO PYRAMIDS. WHAT’S MEANINGFUL TO YOU ABOUT THIS SHAPE? There’s something timeless and grounded about a pyramid. It’s a shape that feels rooted and powerful, but also quiet. We liked that tension. Architecturally, it’s incredibly stable—and symbolically, it carries a sense of permanence and intention, which aligned with how we wanted these pieces to feel.Ethan HerringtonEach lamp is hand finished and features lamp shades made of Yaré threads.TELL US A BIT MORE ABOUT YOUR MATERIAL CHOICES FOR THE COLLECTION? We used Vero metal, which is a hand-applied liquid metal coating. It allowed us to get the feel and finish of cast metal, but with more control over weight and form. The process is incredibly hands-on—each base is polished by hand, so the surface has that human touch to it.THERE IS A TACTILITY TO THE CORDED LAMPSHADES. HOW DID YOU COME TO WORK WITH THIS UNIQUE MATERIAL? We partnered with VERDI, a Bogotá-based atelier that creates beautiful textiles from natural materials and metal. When we saw what they were doing with Yaré and metallic threads, we knew it was the right match. The fiber comes from the Colombian Amazon, and it has this amazing strength and texture—woven with copper or steel, it creates something that’s both wild and refined. It felt like the perfect counterpoint to the sculptural metal base.Ethan HerringtonThe Pyrion Floor Lamp transforms illumination into sculpture.WHAT'S IT LIKE TO WORK WITH A FELLOW INTERIOR DESIGNER?It’s kind of like finishing each other’s sentences—but visually. There’s a shorthand. We both understand proportion, materiality, restraint. There’s also a shared understanding of how pieces need to live in a room—not just how they look on a pedestal. That makes for a really fluid and grounded collaboration.This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

This month marked the start of Beach of Dreams, a festival with scale, heart, and purpose. Running until 1 June 2025, the month-long creative programme is transforming the UK's coastlines into a dynamic stage for climate action and cultural storytelling, all through the lens of art. Led by participatory arts organisation Kinetika, with support from Arts Council England and Historic England, Beach of Dreams has unfolded across the shores of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, activating over 90 events, eight major artist commissions, and a national touring artwork to reimagine our collective relationship with the coast. It's ambitious in scope but rooted in local stories. It celebrates heritage, calls for resilience, and provides a platform for communities to be seen, heard, and felt. A coastline in flux As sea levels rise and storm surges increase, the UK's 19,000 miles of coastline are facing unprecedented environmental pressures. But Beach of Dreams isn't just about drawing attention to what's at risk. It's about uncovering what we love, what we fear, and what we might create together in response. "Through Beach of Dreams, we are journeying from the Beach of Broken Dreams in Thurrock to shine a spotlight on the coastal gems, organisations, people, and projects across the UK that are creating positive change and inspiring hope," says Ali Pretty, artistic director of Beach of Dreams and founder of Kinetika. "In these uncertain times, Beach of Dreams emphasises the power of local communities to shape their own futures." The silks that started it all At the heart of the programme is The Beach of Dreams Silks, a national artwork made up of 838 naturally dyed silk pennants, each one carrying a personal story and Climate Commitment from participants around the country. Installed at key moments throughout the month, the silks will ripple across beaches from Fife to Felixstowe, forming a vast, mobile artwork infused with care, memory, and intention. Each pennant represents an individual's connection to the coast, often made in community workshops using foraged materials and natural dyes. As the silks tour, they become a kind of collective archive – one that is strikingly beautiful but also quietly urgent in its call for stewardship and solidarity. Eight commissions, infinite perspectives The silks may be the symbolic thread, but the festival's soul lies in its artist commissions, each developed in collaboration with communities and exploring a different question about our relationship to the sea. In Tilbury, the festival launched on 3 May with Threads for Tomorrow, a poignant commission by designer Rahemur Rahman. Working with local sewing groups, Rahman has transformed damaged silk pennants – torn during a 2023 storm – into richly embroidered panels using waste materials and naturally dyed threads. These panels will embellish carnival structures inspired by Bangladeshi sampans, merging cultural identity with ecological reinvention in a live performance led by choreographer Charlene Low. Further north, sound artist Jason Singh brings Cyd-Wrando (Listen Together) to Colwyn Bay, Wales. Here, community participants are invited to hear the subtle signals of the environment – from honeycomb worms to ancient yews – via a site-specific soundscape accessed through AR markers along the coastline. It's immersive, interactive, and deeply tuned into the dialogue between land and sea. In South Tyneside, The Power of Nature sees photographer Tessa Bunney and writer Stevie Ronnie exploring how underwater habitats like kelp forests and oyster reefs can stabilise our coasts and boost biodiversity. Developed with local groups through Stronger Shores, a DEFRA-funded resilience programme, the project includes an outdoor photography exhibition and original poetry created by the community. Over in Northern Ireland, Our Siren Song by Beat Carnival channels myth and music. From 13–17 May, a week of coastal walks, storytelling, carnival arts and music workshops will culminate in a spectacular procession through Millisle, featuring a four-metre-tall operatic siren, community choirs, and musicians singing out across the sea. Meanwhile, in Fife, artist Julie Brook crafts Tide Line – a 100-metre sculptural intervention made from local stones and built at low tide. Accompanied by walking journeys, creative workshops, and new choral work, the project draws attention to erosion, plastic pollution, and rising seas – making visible the invisible forces shaping our shorelines. Other commissions include Collecting Dreams, Shifting Futures in East Anglia, a story-gathering project supported by Historic England and taking place in Great Yarmouth, Harwich and Orford Ness, and The Beach of Dreams Village, a striking, sustainable installation in Great Yarmouth designed with Bamboology's Joseph Williams. Both offer joyful, participatory spaces for reflection, learning and celebration. A digital storytelling platform and an invitation to act While the physical artworks form the festival's public face, Beach of Dreams is just as alive online. A digital Stories platform serves as an evolving archive of community voices, creative processes, and climate reflections, offering behind-the-scenes access and amplifying regional perspectives. Importantly, anyone can participate, whether by joining a walk, submitting a workshop idea, or sharing a Climate Commitment on the Beach of Dreams website. These tangible pledges, like planting seagrass or reducing plastic use, add up to a national network of local action. Legacy and reflection Although the festival runs until 1 June, its legacy continues later in the year. In September, Beach of Dreams will culminate in a final performance – Sonnet of Samsara – in partnership with Activate Performing Arts as part of Inside Out Dorset. The piece will weave together movement, silk installations, and storytelling along Weymouth Beach, offering a moment of collective reflection. It will also mark the start of a new residency, bringing together artists, thinkers, and local voices to explore how the festival's's creative energy can seed longer-term change. With its mix of spectacle and sensitivity, Beach of Dreams is more than a festival. It's's a model for how art can hold space for complexity – beauty and vulnerability, tradition and change, grief and imagination – all while inviting us to walk, listen, make, and care a little more deeply for the places we so often take for granted.

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd" Zaha Hadid Architects has unveiled a new mixed-use development that features spacious balconies inspired by nature on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.Called Oystra, the 128,000 square meter development consists of 950 apartments with one to four bedrooms, duplexes, penthouses, and waterfront villas. The seaside complex offers a wealth of dining, retail, and recreational options.Image © RedvertexWith a population expected to increase by 55% by 2030, Ras Al Khaimah is one of the UAE's fastest-growing emirates, necessitating the construction of an extra 45,000 dwellings to accommodate future demand, as Zaha Hadid Architects explained. The tourism industry in Ras Al Khaimah is also expanding at an unprecedented rate; by 2030, the emirate is expected to receive 3.5 million visitors annually, up from 100,000 in 2013, the firm added.Al Marjan Island's infrastructure is being developed as a top destination in the United Arab Emirates. The island's 23 kilometers of shoreline, which includes 7.8 kilometers of white sand beaches, extend 4.5 kilometers into the Arabian Sea. The island, which has parks, marinas, spa centers, and entertainment venues, is located 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 25 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah Airport.Image © RedvertexThe development's flowing geometries, which include expansive balconies and terraces sculpted to mimic the undulating patterns shaped by waves in sand, were designed by Zaha Hadid Architects to provide over 75% of its units with unhindered views of the sea. These balconies protect the interiors from direct sunshine while acting as smooth additions to each apartment's living area.Within its 42,000 square meter plot, which includes landscaped gardens, courtyards, swimming pools, and a beach club with a view of the bay, are Oystra's sculptural 20-story waterfront towers. The 360° infinity pool and rooftop restaurant offer expansive views of the Arabian Sea and Al Marjan Island.Image © RedvertexThrough this protected waterfront path, which is maintained cool by the predominant north-westerly winds that blow inland from the sea, inhabitants have direct access to the tree-lined coastal promenade of Al Marjan Island.Digital mapping analysis optimized the design's external solar shade and improved natural ventilation, while environmental simulations maximized efficiencies in site conditions, structure, and orientation. In addition to an insulating space between the building envelope and the project's façades that get direct sunlight, the development will incorporate seawater-based cooling. In the arid climate of Ras Al Khaimah, these tactics will improve interior comfort while lowering the energy requirement for cooling.Image © Redvertex"Our collaboration with Richmind is the result of shared ambition and creative dialogue. Oystra’s sculptural design is inspired by the natural energies of the sea and the sky, responding to its environment with a sense of dynamism and openness," said Christos Passas, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects."Oystra reflects our passion for visionary design, lifestyle innovation, and a bold approach to shaping spaces that inspire and endure through time. Working with Zaha Hadid Architects has been both a privilege and a purposeful choice. We share a vision rooted in bold thinking, design excellence, and a deep commitment to originality," said Mohammad Rafiee, Chief Executive Officer of Richmind. Image © Redvertex"Al Marjan has become a canvas for exceptional developments, and Oystra is a strong addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s narrative, reflecting the forward-thinking developments that align perfectly with Al Marjan Island's ambition and vision," said Abdulla Al Abdouli, Chief Executive Officer of Marjan.Image © PyxidZaha Hadid Architects recently completed a spaceship-like science and technology museum in Shenzhen. In addition, the firm unveiled design for a new cityzen tower inspired by Tbilisi's rolling hills in Georgia. Project factsClient: RichmindArchitect: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA)Design: Patrik Schumacher, Christos PassasZHA Project Director: Christos PassasZHA Project Associates: Mei-Ling Lin, Joao Bravo Da Costa, Eider FernandezZHA Project Architects: Sattor Jabbor, Branko Svarcer, Kourosh Asgar IraniZHA Project Leads: Ben Kikkawa, Ekaterina Smirnova, Gaganjit Singh, Anri Gyoloyan, Nassim Eshaghi, Maria BystrovaZHA Project Team: Dahyun Kim, Elizabeth Konstantinidou, Shizhao Yang, Mirella Dourambei, Abdullah Ummer Farook, Ali Rais, Avneesh Rathor, Theodoros Tamvakis, Danae Mavridi, Canon LeeZHA Competition Project Director: Christos PassasZHA Competition Associates: Joao Bravo Da Costa, Mei-Ling LinZHA Competition Project Architects: Ben Kikkawa, Maria Bystrova,ZHA Competition Project Leads: Dieter Matuschke, Akis Polykandriotis, Anri Gyoloyan, Avneesh RathorZHA Competition Team: Abdullah Ummer Farook, Ali Rais, Dahyun Kim, Shizhao Yang, Mirella Dourambei, Theodoros Tamvakis, Gaganjit SinghZHA BIM Team: David Fogliano, Michael O’Reilly, Muaz MasriZHA Environment & Sustainability Team: Carlos Bausa, Bahaa Alnassrallah, Shibani Choudhury, Aleksander Mastalski, Aditya Ambare, Disha Shetty, Abhilash Menon, Jing XuConsultantsExecutive Architect: Dewan Architects and Engineers, DubaiFaçade Engineering: Koltay FacadesM&E Engineering: Samadhin AssociatesTransport Consultant: RMC, DubaiFire Engineer: SHE, DubaiLandscape Consultant: Cracknell LandscapesLighting Design: FPOVInterior Design: HBA, LondonSignage and Wayfinding: TDCWaste Management: Climatize, DubaiThe top image in the article © MIR.> via Zaha Hadid Architects

Everyone loves a home that doesn’t take itself too seriously yet still feels refined. That’s the magic of The Blush Apartment, a studio apartment designed by Oli Moskalets. Equal parts playful and polished, this space reimagines modern living. We see candy-hued accents and retro flair. Think pink glass chandeliers, checkered curtains, and artwork that winks at you from across the room. But don’t be fooled by the soft color palette. Beneath the blush lies a backbone of architectural discipline that makes this small space feel anything but ordinary. The living area is anchored by a cozy, neutral-toned sofa that quietly balances the louder moments in the room, like the playful pink elephant painting. A blush-tinted acrylic side table catches the light and doubles as art, while a checkered rug in warm pink and orange tones adds pattern. Even the tiniest details are curated for delight: bubble-shaped ceramics and soft lighting. But what really sets this living space apart is its confidence. It’s not afraid to be playful. It’s not afraid to be pretty. And yet, thanks to a refined material palette (e.g., brushed metal, raw concrete, textured fabric), it never loses its sophistication. Tucked behind a black-and-white checkered curtain, the bedroom feels quite serene. A simple wood-framed bed and crisp white linens offer calm. Simultaneously, the lighting and playful wall art keep the energy fresh. It’s minimal but never boring. Set beneath a blush glass chandelier, the dining area feels like a scene from a modern art film. A round glass table with a wood pedestal anchors the space. Paired with this, mixed-material chairs bring in contrast and character. The backdrop? A bold tapestry and soft light pouring in from the window. The kitchen is small in size but big on style. It paired rich walnut cabinetry with sleek open shelving and a sculptural faucet. We’re here for the blush accents: ceramic cups, glassware, and a softly glowing wall sconce. These add just the right dose of color. The kitchen is a compact space that proves functionality can still feel fabulous!