Brick modern

Architect Ana Smud’s residence in the Vicente López suburb of Buenos Aires is surrounded by gardens and wrapped in timber, concrete, and glass.

Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP used 87 translucent bricks to reframe a family’s connection to nature and the city.

The brick-and-glass residence accommodates limited mobility with a lift between levels and seamless thresholds between indoors and out.

An oculus overhead of the conversation pit lets in extra light while giving occupants below a glimpse of the sky. The family often hangs out in the conversation pit—some to read, others to play video games—and hidden built-in power adaptors make sure the two sons' electronics are always fully charged.

If striving for a lower carbon footprint with likeminded neighbors sounds like your cup of tea, BedZED has a place for you.

While the exterior of Casa Dosmurs protects the family’s privacy, the interior is free-flowing and fluid. “We want to share all our moments together,” says Benjamín.

Pink plaster meets olive-green tile in this serene garden home listed for £1.3M.

A solution to cramped urban living in Texcoco, Mexico.

A screen made from concrete breeze-blocks allows breeze and filtered light into the stairwell.