ISSUE NO. 22

A January Issue

We have a lot of new people joining us this week—a warm welcome to you all. It’s refreshing to share this space where we can come together and connect over what moves us forward: art. Now, without further ado, let’s dive into this week’s issue

ARCHITECTURALLY CURIOUS

The Rise of Wellness-Focused Third Spaces

Located in Leshan, Sichuan Province, is a holistic space—La Belle Vie—that focuses on creating space for natural health. From essential oil spas, smart skincare, afternoon tea, art exhibits, and salons—the space creates a calm and relaxing environment where people can enjoy beautiful things and take care of their body and mind.

Beyond Home and Work

The concept of a third space—a place beyond home and work where people can relax and connect—has increasingly prioritized wellness. As a collective, this has been a need considering the stresses of balancing our professional and personal lives.

A New Era of Community

Today’s third spaces go beyond fitness clubs or co-working spaces—which were once the go-to places for connecting with like-minded individuals. Now, they’re sanctuaries. Designed to help individuals recharge physically, mentally, and emotionally—it brings people together around shared interests in health, self-care, and personal growth.

GLOBAL GLIMPSE

Warsaw: Healing Traumas

A therapeutic clinic in Warsaw challenges the idea that healthcare spaces have to be cold and sterile. By using materials like glass blocks—often linked to the post-communist era—the clinic offers a new way of thinking about architecture while focuses on creating a nurturing, calming environment for mental health.

The Architectural Shortcut

Glass blocks have a complicated history in Poland. In the 90s—a time of rapid change after communism ended—they were used cheaply and quickly in construction. Commonly found in homes and public buildings, they were seen as low-quality and a symbol of rushed and mass-produced design. Because of this, glass blocks became tied to the negative side of post-communist architecture.

Reimagining the Perspective

By repurposing glass blocks as both an artistic and functional element—they are used to create light-filtering sculptures. In doing this, they are turned into a symbol of creativity and innovation—challenging its negative history in Polish architecture.

VISUAL COMFORT

A Whimsical Focal Point

Through the process of "peluchisation" (making it plush)—the Belleville chair takes on a new whimsical and inviting quality while adding a layer of unexpected creativity.

A Character in the Room

It’s no longer just a piece of furniture. With its soft texture and rounded shape, the plush surface makes you want to feel it—making the chair not only a place to sit but an object that encourages interaction and conversation.

Playful Focal Point

A striking focal point in any room—it draws attention with its unusual form and texture. While adding a playful presence, it elevates an everyday object into something more imaginative—offering both visual interest and emotional warmth.

DESIGNER PICK

What I’m Currently Obsessing Over

Marte Mei Lamp

Using thin porcelain plates with varying transparency along with aluminum and wood ash glazes—creates a dynamic interaction between light and material. It produces a soft glow that adds depth and ambiance to any space.

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

What I'm Listening to in January

Have you listened to the studio’s January playlist yet? You can access it by clicking the color of the month image above.

A gentle reminder to not allow negativity inward—keep shining boldly and brightly because you never know who’s looking up to you for inspiration. I’ll see you next week, my friend.