The mammoth phalanxes of white-brick apartment houses that proliferated in the 1960s occupy an architectural purgatory; generic, with boxy interiors devoid of detail, many aren’t even interesting enough to excite a raised eyebrow. Our solution for this exemplar near Astor Place, which fortunately was blessed with premium skyline views, was to relieve the interior ordinariness by stimulating the senses with tactile variety. Axis Mundi created a complexly layered textural palette that injects visual adrenaline into the architectural envelope: a television set into a waxed steel panel topped by clerestory windows with a built-in planter for grasses; wenge wood walls rising from richly figured walnut floors; white subway tile surrounding a subtly colored penny-tile mosaic tub and wall; in the kitchen, Venetian plaster, steel, stone and wood mix harmoniously as a surprisingly spiced exotic concoction. The interiors exude a confident masculinity that challenges the complacency of bland, white-box living. Project Team: John Beckmann and Esther Sperber | Studio ST Photography: Andrew Garn Contractor: John Marsh © Axis Mundi Design LLC

Uber chic industrial modern interior space. Bright, spacious and visually stimulating. The gorgeous hand made rug grounds the beautiful surrounding design work.

This homeowner’s outdoor living area was redesigned to add some elegant characteristics. In order to do this, various materials were used. The retaining walls found along the property were made from PA Fieldstone Wallstone. The textures and various colors found throughout this stone easily enhance the outdoor area and offer visual stimulation. Ashler pattern brownstone was used throughout the patio, creating a clean and polished look. This patio surrounded a beautiful swimming pool that was aligned with brownstone caps along the border.The materials that were used in this landscape exterior created a relaxing and enjoyable space, perfect for the family.

The idea of this project was to create a special environment that stimulates all senses in the human body, an environment that is vibrant and most importantly interactive for all ages. We began by searching for the right materials to create a specific feeling of time and space. Placement of the water feature was designed by studying how the customer used their home. The waterfalls and streams connect separate outdoor spaces and accommodate for all views outdoors and indoors. A sense of mystery is designed into every detail in this water feature. The layout of the ponds play accordingly with the sun for excellent reflections, and each rock formation has time designed into it. The environment is inviting, and interactive. Each person that walks out to explore the environment has his or her curiosity rewarded by discovering plant life, trickling streams, and several waterfalls only to be discovered by the inquisitive explorer. Photos by: Linda Oyama Bryan

ce Bath Oval — Includes Chiller | Compact Cold Plunge Size: 4′4″ х 4′2″ х 2′4″ | Price: $5,570 Includes: Chiller, UV Filtration & Wi-Fi Control Interior: Stainless Steel | Exterior: Red Cedar | FREE SHIPPING Elevate your wellness routine with the Ice Bath Oval — a beautifully crafted cold plunge designed for personal recovery and rejuvenation. Its space-saving oval form makes it perfect for patios, decks, and smaller outdoor spaces, without compromising full-body immersion. The interior is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel for exceptional hygiene, rapid cooling, and easy cleaning. The exterior is finished in natural red cedar, known for its rot resistance, beauty, and durability in all weather conditions. As experienced manufacturers with over 11 years in production, we deliver each unit fully assembled and ready to use, with doorstep delivery and unloading included. Production and shipping take 2–3 months, and setup requires no tools — just plug in and chill. Why cold immersion therapy? • Relieves muscle soreness and post-exercise fatigue • Boosts circulation and strengthens the immune system • Improves sleep and enhances mental focus • Stimulates collagen production and slows aging — so you feel and look revitalized Professional-grade Chiller System (included): • 0.8 HP cooling power • 2500W output • Temperature range: 37°F – 108°F • Flow rate: 8–10.5 gal/min • Built-in UV filtration — keeps water crystal clear • Quiet operation with automatic temp control • Timer function for scheduled plunges • Quick-connect fittings — hassle-free installation Key Design Features: • Ergonomic oval shape for comfort and full-body immersion • Double-wall insulation for maximum cold retention • Integrated drainage and overflow outlet • UV filtration system included • Designed for everyday use with minimal maintenance We also offer Round and Rectangular models — each one crafted to match your outdoor aesthetic and wellness goals. Custom options available. ➤ Use as a standalone recovery tool or pair with one of our outdoor saunas for the ultimate wellness setup. ➤ Discover more: www.eco-hearth.com/us Call Us: +1 951 633 7691 WhatsApp: +1 929 420 8945

Kids' spaces are vibrant and imaginative environments crafted to cater to the unique needs and creativity of children. Whether it's a playroom, bedroom, or study area, these spaces prioritize a playful and safe atmosphere. Bright colors, whimsical decor, and themed elements contribute to a visually stimulating environment that sparks a child's imagination. Functional furniture, such as storage bins and child-sized desks, fosters organization and independence. Interactive elements like chalkboard walls, educational toys, and comfortable seating create a dynamic and engaging setting for learning and play. Kids' spaces are carefully designed to evolve with a child's interests, providing a nurturing backdrop for their growth and development.

Bedroom - mid-sized contemporary master medium tone wood floor and brown floor bedroom idea in Salt Lake City with a ribbon fireplace and gray walls

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary open concept light wood floor and gray floor living room remodel in Salt Lake City with a ribbon fireplace, a bar, white walls, a tile fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Beautiful dining room with waterfront views and a red accent wall to stimulate the appetite.
Inspiration for a large tropical medium tone wood floor kitchen/dining room combo remodel in Other with red walls

2 years after building their house, a young family needed some more space for needs of their growing children. The decision was made to renovate their unfinished basement to create a new space for both children and adults. PLAYPOD The most compelling feature upon entering the basement is the Playpod. The 100 sq.ft structure is both playful and practical. It functions as a hideaway for the family’s young children who use their imagination to transform the space into everything from an ice cream truck to a space ship. Storage is provided for toys and books, brining order to the chaos of everyday playing. The interior is lined with plywood to provide a warm but robust finish. In contrast, the exterior is clad with reclaimed pine floor boards left over from the original house. The black stained pine helps the Playpod stand out while simultaneously enabling the character of the aged wood to be revealed. The orange apertures create ‘moments’ for the children to peer out to the world while also enabling parents to keep an eye on the fun. The Playpod’s unique form and compact size is scaled for small children but is designed to stimulate big imagination. And putting the FUN in FUNctional. PLANNING The layout of the basement is organized to separate private and public areas from each other. The office/guest room is tucked away from the media room to offer a tranquil environment for visitors. The new four piece bathroom serves the entire basement but can be annexed off by a set of pocket doors to provide a private ensuite for guests. The media room is open and bright making it inviting for the family to enjoy time together. Sitting adjacent to the Playpod, the media room provides a sophisticated place to entertain guests while the children can enjoy their own space close by. The laundry room and small home gym are situated in behind the stairs. They work symbiotically allowing the homeowners to put in a quick workout while waiting for the clothes to dry. After the workout gym towels can quickly be exchanged for fluffy new ones thanks to the ample storage solutions customized for the homeowners.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN LOOKING FOR BIOPHILIC WALL ART While you’ll never go wrong by choosing nature-based images, there are particular scenes, colors and styles that will produce the greatest biophilic impact in your space. First and foremost, realistic photographic images of nature or nature scenes tend to produce the most robust biophilic benefits. Realistic scenes stimulate a person’s imagination in a gentle and comforting way, allowing his or her mind to calmly wander through a familiar view. When people look at photographs, they think to themselves, “I’ve never been there before but I know that this is a place that exists and I want to go there”.

Contemporary walnut and paint kitchen with terrazzo style countertops. Pocketing doors hide a wonderful "stimulant center" - caffeine in the morning, alcohol in the evening!

Who wouldn't want to hang out in this vibrant kitchen morning, noon, night and snack time? This rivetingly colorful kitchen never fails to wow. Appetite stimulating red cabinets feature wood knobs and pulls. There's island seating as well as a breakfast nook with a view and ample bench seating with extra storage. The custom maple countertops are polished on the sink side of the kitchen but unpolished on the kitchen island. Kitchen features multi layered lighting including cans, undercabinet, pendant and natural. Photos by Terry Poe Photography.

This feminine color palette was intentionally selected to appropriately age with the girls. These stimulating patterned textiles have all been selected and treated to be children,friendly and paired with graceful art pieces.

The Belmont's study is a serene and inspiring space designed for productivity and focus. Large windows allow abundant natural light to fill the room, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The white walls provide a clean and fresh backdrop, promoting a sense of calmness and clarity. A sturdy wooden desk takes center stage, offering ample workspace for tasks, projects, or study sessions. Its natural beauty adds a touch of warmth and elegance to the room. Whether it's tackling work assignments, diving into research, or indulging in creative pursuits, the Belmont's study provides the ideal environment to stimulate concentration and creativity. The combination of natural light, white walls, and a well-crafted wooden desk creates a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that the study is a space where ideas can flow freely and work can be accomplished with ease.

This homeowner’s outdoor living area was redesigned to add some elegant characteristics. In order to do this, various materials were used. The retaining walls found along the property were made from PA Fieldstone Wallstone. The textures and various colors found throughout this stone easily enhance the outdoor area and offer visual stimulation. Ashler pattern brownstone was used throughout the patio, creating a clean and polished look. This patio surrounded a beautiful swimming pool that was aligned with brownstone caps along the border.The materials that were used in this landscape exterior created a relaxing and enjoyable space, perfect for the family.

2 years after building their house, a young family needed some more space for needs of their growing children. The decision was made to renovate their unfinished basement to create a new space for both children and adults. PLAYPOD The most compelling feature upon entering the basement is the Playpod. The 100 sq.ft structure is both playful and practical. It functions as a hideaway for the family’s young children who use their imagination to transform the space into everything from an ice cream truck to a space ship. Storage is provided for toys and books, brining order to the chaos of everyday playing. The interior is lined with plywood to provide a warm but robust finish. In contrast, the exterior is clad with reclaimed pine floor boards left over from the original house. The black stained pine helps the Playpod stand out while simultaneously enabling the character of the aged wood to be revealed. The orange apertures create ‘moments’ for the children to peer out to the world while also enabling parents to keep an eye on the fun. The Playpod’s unique form and compact size is scaled for small children but is designed to stimulate big imagination. And putting the FUN in FUNctional. PLANNING The layout of the basement is organized to separate private and public areas from each other. The office/guest room is tucked away from the media room to offer a tranquil environment for visitors. The new four piece bathroom serves the entire basement but can be annexed off by a set of pocket doors to provide a private ensuite for guests. The media room is open and bright making it inviting for the family to enjoy time together. Sitting adjacent to the Playpod, the media room provides a sophisticated place to entertain guests while the children can enjoy their own space close by. The laundry room and small home gym are situated in behind the stairs. They work symbiotically allowing the homeowners to put in a quick workout while waiting for the clothes to dry. After the workout gym towels can quickly be exchanged for fluffy new ones thanks to the ample storage solutions customized for the homeowners.

**Featured Baltimore Sun's Dream Home** In need of a place to call home in the States, this Australian family with a primary residence in Hong Kong needed a turn-key residence, complete with kitchen utensils and linens. We carefully designed each room with a color scheme that matches its function. The children's room features stimulating primary colors. The kitchen utilized bold blue to inspire creativity. Warm and relaxing tones are used in the living room and bedroom. Assisted by Jenny Wohl of Turner Design Firm

Nature inspired lighting fixtures and twig adorned sideboard plays with geometric rug and textured window coverings to add visual interest. Neutral and dark colors highlight the colorful Asian & Indian inspired collected art and artifacts with ornately decorated corner cabinet add to stimulating dinner conversation of worldly travel in this tranquil yet refined setting.