My Faves from the BOY Awards 2012

The Interior Design magazine is one of the few publications that I eagerly look forward to getting my hands on every month. Unlike the numerous decoration magazines focussed on residential design found on the shelves of grocery stores, this one is a great resource for a commercial interior designer like me. It features all the great projects and information on the trendiest products out there!

The Best of Year or BOY awards by this magazine recognize the latest and greatest projects and products in nearly 100 categories every year. I’ve curated 7 of my favorites from the 45 projects which were honored in 2012. Hope you enjoy the work of these talented designers as much as I do!

Don’t forget to let me know which of these you fancy in the comments below ! Also, here’s a full list of the awarded projects and products if you’re hungry for more!

1. Der Spiegel Canteen by Ippolito Fieltz Group, Germany

Love how the architect decided to use the ceiling as the showstopper through satin polished mirror discs suspended from a back-painted ceiling in this cafeteria. This leaves the floor open to plan seating and other functions easily.

 2. Google’s San Francisco Office by Rapt Studio

Although I like the idea of creating a campus like feel for offices, I’m not too keen on a workspace which looks like a preschool playground (and many Google campuses have been designed exactly to that effect!). I like the sophistication Rapt Studio brought to this project. It’s playful in an adult kinda way .

3. International Hotel by Cherem Serrano Arquitectos, Mexico

As much as I love that many elements of this historical building have been preserved, the beautiful vertical garden with a bicycle stuck mid-way takes the cake for me!

4. Randall Children’s Hospital by ZGF Architects, Portland

I can only imagine the challenges of designing a fully functional hospital while creating a comfortable and friendly environment for the children and their families. Hats off to this design team!

5. Steelcase WorkCafe by Shimoda Design Group, Michigan

This is one majestic work cafe – love the honey-comb patterned canopy and the grand walnut staircase which both seem to float in space! Although I’m not sure what material the canopy is made of, perhaps GFRC or MDF? Will update this post if I find more information on it.

6. The Pump Room by Yabu Pushelberg, Chicago

I want these glowing resin orbs everywhere in my house!

7. Grupo Gallegos Office by Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects, California

Located in sunny Los Angeles (with beach access!) this office was once a Cineplex and the designers decided to keep it theatrical by suspending 360 white umbrellas from the ceiling! I also admire the skillful use of color in this space. It’s oh so Californian!

Categories: Architecture, Interior Design
Tags: cafe, designer, favorites, healthcare, hotel, office, restaurant, San Francisco