Born of a novel research project in 2014, the NEST in Schwabish Hall, Switzerland, a region known for its engineering ingenuity—especially when it comes to water—is a lab that bridges the gap between cutting-edge construction technology in theory and practice. Its most recent module is Klafs saunas and spas showroom and wellness spa, entirely powered by renewable energy. In this case, the company recognized that spending time in fitness clubs, equipped with mechanical machines, saunas and spas may grant health and well being to an individual, but not necessarily the environment. To mitigate the effects of resource-intensive well-being, NEST has re-engineered its fitness spa with respect to e

Yoga studios are becoming community hubs where yoga is just the beginning. DXA Studio’s design for Modo Yoga in New York City caters to the health and well-being of its mind-body conscious clientele. The design concept embraces the core principles of Modo Yoga: calm mind, fit body, inspired life by providing amenities beyond the typical yoga studio. Similar to a health club where members might linger before or after a fitness session, the design includes locker rooms, social spaces and a retail component. Many elements of the design embrace the yogic principle of serene, non-harming surroundings. Modo Yoga’s seven pillars: Be Healthy, Be Accessible, Live Green, Community Support, Reach Out,

One of the advantages to using large-scale broadloom carpet found in hotel and hospitality designs is that they may be custom designed to evoke the sense of place even inside of a large ballroom or lobby. AP spoke to interior designer and architect, Jim Looney, president of Looney & Assocs., about his experience designing with Axminster carpet. For 21 years, Looney has specialized in interior design for hospitality environments at 4 to 5 star properties. Recently, for his client the Related Companies, Looney specified custom Axminster carpet from Brintons at Hilton West Palm Beach property. Looney says, “The reason we like to use it so often in our properties is from a construction, dura