A NOR11 chair anchors a sunny corner.

The facade features a sunny yellow balcony—intended to spark a smile, but it’s also a statement by the architects against the “monotonous and dull color palette” of traditional Japanese neighborhoods.

The idea of balance is expressed in all facets of the project—from light to dark, indoor to outdoor.

In an effort to create an abundance of light and air flow throughout the space, the home follows an L-shaped floor plan that wraps around outdoor areas. “We designed several open spaces, each with a different feel: the garden and pool, the terrace, and the back patio,” says Cesarman. “The idea was to reduce the area to the most basic and essential [elements].”

This living/bedroom space showcases neutral tones and shades of white to contrast the continued use of natural, treated wood surfaces.

The bar showcases many green products. The bar top, made at the 19 greek street gallery, is fashioned from recycled glass, and the chairs, from both Out of the Dark and Studio deForm, are fashioned from upcycled material.

Another view of the mezzanine. Rough brick walls add texture and old-world charm.

According to Ndoro, LIBRARY will “provide a much-needed space for the pioneering design community of the capital and beyond.” This room features a collection of eclectic Middle Eastern and African pieces, according to 19 greek street founder and creative director Marc Peridis. The curvaceous M'Afrique Shadowy Chair by Moroso is made by Senegalese craftsman, the rug and vases are fashioned from recycled African fabric. The two Papillon chairs near the window are by Karen Chekerdjian, a designer based in Lebanon.

With library's Cor-Ten shield open, the home’s facade is seen at night. The L shaped pedestrian pathway forces visitors to travel around the perimeter before entry, gradually experiencing the architectural composition step by step.

“When you’re working on something inexpensive and then decide you don’t like it, fine. You’re not tearing down millions of kroners worth of work.” —Mette Lyng Hansen

On an 18th-century farmstead in rural Sweden, two Copenhagen designers handcraft a summerhouse that seamlessly melds the modern and the traditional.

Another view of the bar, showcasing the recycled-glass bar top. Designer Chris Duffy made the bar tables against the wall.

Samsung developed its Club des Chefs line of kitchen appliances with input from Michelin star-rated chefs.

Peridis turned a small room that wasn't quite big enough for a guest into a chair showcase, which includes the Chubby chair by Dirk Vander Kooij and the leaning 8.5 by Rasmus Baekkel Fex.

The blocky Preston Club is a a resin chair with castors and plush Italian leather cushions. The best part? Interior illumination is available upon request.

Reading Club 2000 in Manila, Philippines-Reading Club 2000 began when Hernando Guanlao—known to friends and neighbors as Nanie—sought out a way to honor the memory of his parents, who instilled in him the love for reading. He set old textbooks of his own outside his Manila home to see if others would be interested in borrowing them. They were. 12 years later, Nanie's library now contains somewhere around 2,500 books (he doesn't know the exact count), and he even runs a "book bike" service, where he delivers reading material to the poorest communities in Manila. Photo: Ms. Ma. Patricia Nabong

Jensen-Lewis’ Clubber offers a retro feel and a quick conversion. The barely-there chrome legs present a nice alternative to the heftier sofa beds of yore.

Fireplace as it was at time of home purchase

Fireplace after we ripped out many things from the room.

Ronald Ndoro wants to “create a home for the vibrant literary community” with LIBRARY, a members-only club. The entryway features marble Bust Chairs by Tomas Libertiny and a table by Jaime Hayon for Se London.

The home includes multiple furnishings and lights designed by Wright, including this dining set and hanging pendant light.

The open dining space accommodates groups such as Fashandi’s book club with ease.

Large paver patios make excellent walkways.