"The simple materiality works a charm" says commenter

In this week's comments update, readers are discussing a Notting Hill home renovation by Knox Bhaven featuring oak joinery and white surfaces.

After years of neglect, the four-storey house in London was overhauled, with the rebuilding of collapsing walls, uneven floors and a damaged roof to create light-filled interiors.

"Absolute perfection of detailing"

"Very nice solution, especially given the restricted and small site," commended The Truth. "They managed to maximise the daylight in difficult conditions."

"Beautiful house, I especially like the woodwork," praised Leo, before adding "I would definitely live there if I could afford it."

Also a fan, Pa Varreon thought it was "elegant" with "absolute perfection of detailing".

Miles Teg was on the same page, arguing "the plans are full of smart solutions, using every space and nook possible". They went on to suggest that "the simple materiality of the project works a charm, and the craftsmanship is right on point".

However, not all readers were quite so smitten, and Weetbix felt there was "a wasted opportunity not to play with the bending of the original walls."

What's your take on the Notting Hill home? Join the discussion ›

"Art Deco went out of fashion for a reason"

Readers were split over a newly renovated steakhouse in New York featuring sumptuous red walls and strong geometry, designed by local studio Rockwell Group.

In a comment that was upvoted 10 times, Souji put forward "this looks really nice, moody, warm" and "very cool overall".

Operacreep also had nothing but praise, calling the design "appropriately sexy for a restaurant interior – gives the vibe that you could spend a few hours cocooned in all the warm colours and textures."

Other commenters took a more blunt view. "Art deco went out of fashion for a reason," scorned Idracula.

This sentiment was echoed by Sorperdida, who wrote "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."

Which side are you on? Join the discussion ›

"Nothing graceful or elegant about this chair"

Also causing a stir in the comments section this week was a chair that aims to reduce stress by inviting users to play with a metal ball built into its wooden frame, created by architect and designer Tanuvi Hadge.

"Is the fidgeting ball meant to distract us from an otherwsie clunky and dull chair?" asked Charles Anderson.

Ken Steffes was similarly cynical, suggesting "there is nothing graceful or delicate about this chair."

However, commenter Jon Alexandr went against the grain. "Unlike other commenters here, I love the chair's chrome ball and the precise winding channel it travels."

Have you said your piece? Join the discussion ›

Comments update

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