Ottoman Turkish design emerged during the height of the Ottoman Empire, a period marked by extensive cultural exchange and artistic innovation. Drawing from Islamic, Byzantine, Persian, and local Anatolian traditions, the style is known for its grand architectural scale, intricately patterned surfaces, and masterful use of light and shadow. From palaces and mosques to urban …
August 4, 2025
Rooted in the local tradition of the hytte, Norwegian cabin design has long provided refuge in the natural landscape. These seasonal cabins reflect an intimate relationship with Norway’s rugged terrain and seasonal extremes, offering a built expression of friluftsliv, or “free air life,” which prioritizes time outdoors and connection to place. While traditional cabins were simple …
July 28, 2025
German Fachwerkhaus design is rooted in centuries of regional tradition and practical construction. Commonly found in towns and villages throughout Germany, Fachwerk, a traditional timber-framing technique, was developed as an efficient method of building with local materials, including oak, clay, and stone. Over time, it evolved into an architectural language defined by rhythm, balance, and …
June 3, 2025
Korean Hanok design is a traditional architectural style that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty, defined by its sensitivity to site, climate, and material honesty. Oriented by Confucian ideals and the rhythms of nature, the architecture emphasizes balance and connection—between people, environment, and space. Whether rural homes or urban dwellings, these structures reflect a cultural reverence for simplicity, proportion, …
July 14, 2025
Rooted in Argentina’s Pampas region, estancia design evolved from the country’s historic ranch estates—homes built for both utility and hospitality. Traditionally constructed with thick adobe walls, stone floors, and exposed wood beams, these structures were designed to withstand harsh climates while offering comfort and shelter. Influenced by Spanish colonial architecture and shaped by gaucho culture, …
June 30, 2025
The concept of wabi-sabi, rooted in Japanese aesthetics, celebrates the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and the understated elegance of the natural world. When applied to residential kitchens, Wabi-sabi transforms the space into a sanctuary of calm and authenticity, where each element tells a story and every flaw is embraced as part of the design’s charm. …
September 25, 2024
As sustainability becomes a cornerstone of hospitality design, circular material strategies are taking center stage. More than just a trend, these approaches prioritize reusability, responsible sourcing, and reduced waste, without compromising beauty or performance. Hotels, restaurants, and resorts are reimagining what luxury looks like through the lens of longevity and lifecycle. Circular strategies begin at …
July 29, 2025
The British Arts and Crafts movement arose in the late 1800s as a response to the mechanization of design during the Industrial Revolution. Designers and architects like William Morris and Charles Voysey championed a return to craftsmanship, drawing inspiration from medieval guilds, vernacular buildings, and nature itself. Their belief is that everyday environments should be …
July 7, 2025
In 2024, Material Bank introduced a range of innovative tools designed with our users’ needs in mind. From streamlining workflows to enhancing collaboration with clients and teams, every new feature aims to make the design process more efficient and cohesive. As we roll out our newest tool, Material Bank Boards, we spoke with Joel Rabin, …
October 30, 2024
Rooted in the southern countryside of France, French Provençal design balances timeless refinement with rustic comfort. Inspired by the architecture and interiors of traditional rural homes, this aesthetic evokes the soft patina of age through handcrafted materials, muted colors, and lived-in textures. From worn stone floors to antique ironwork, these spaces embody a relaxed elegance …
June 24, 2025
