Architecture enthusiasts are praising a stunning home renovation in London's Notting Hill neighborhood by Knox Bhavan, with readers particularly impressed by the project's oak joinery, white surfaces, and thoughtful use of materials. The four-story house underwent a complete overhaul after years of neglect, requiring extensive rebuilding of collapsing walls, uneven floors, and a damaged roof to create bright, light-filled interiors.
The renovation has earned widespread acclaim from design critics and readers alike. Commenter The Truth praised the architects for their "very nice solution, especially given the restricted and small site," noting that "they managed to maximize the daylight in difficult conditions." Another reader, Leo, expressed admiration for the craftsmanship, saying "Beautiful house, I especially like the woodwork. I would definitely live there if I could afford it."
Pa Varreon described the renovation as "elegant" with "absolute perfection of detailing," while Miles Teg highlighted the intelligent design approach. "The plans are full of smart solutions, using every space and nook possible," Miles Teg commented. "The simple materiality of the project works a charm, and the craftsmanship is right on point."
However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Reader Weetbix suggested there was "a wasted opportunity not to play with the bending of the original walls," indicating that some felt the renovation could have been more adventurous with the existing structure.
Meanwhile, readers showed mixed reactions to other recent projects featured in the week's discussion. A Manhattan restaurant designed by Rockwell Group, featuring art deco influences with sumptuous red walls and strong geometry, divided opinions sharply. Supporter Souji called it "really nice, moody, warm" and "very cool overall," while Operacreep praised it as "appropriately sexy for a restaurant interior" that "gives the vibe that you could spend a few hours cocooned in all the warm colors and textures."
Critics of the restaurant design were more blunt in their assessment. Idracula dismissed the approach entirely, stating "Art deco went out of fashion for a reason." Sorperdida echoed this sentiment, arguing that "when it's taken too literally, the art deco theme comes back to haunt you real fast – this restaurant looks like it already needs an update."
Another project generating controversy was a unique chair design by architect and designer Tanuvi Hegde, which aims to reduce stress by inviting users to play with a metal ball built into its wooden frame. The "Reflect chair" received harsh criticism from some commenters, with Charles Anderson asking, "Is the fidgeting ball meant to distract us from an otherwise clunky and dull chair?" Ken Steffes was similarly critical, suggesting "there is nothing graceful or delicate about this chair."
Despite the criticism, the chair design did have its defenders. Jon Alexandr stood against the prevailing opinion, stating, "Unlike other commenters here, I love the chair's chrome ball and the precise winding channel it travels," demonstrating that even controversial designs can find their audience among design enthusiasts.
