optima Archives

Phoenix Architecture Spotlight: The David and Gladys Wright House

Posted on June 7, 2023 by Hunter

At Optima®, we have an unending fascination for architectural masterpieces, especially those that have shaped and defined the Modernist movement. Today, our focus rests upon an extraordinary residence, the David and Gladys Wright House, designed by none other than the father of architecture himself, Frank Lloyd Wright.

Located in Phoenix, Arizona, this house stands out as one of Wright’s most innovative residential designs. Constructed in 1952 for his son David and daughter-in-law Gladys, this home reveals the intimate connection Wright shared with his family, articulated in his distinctive architectural language.

Crafted towards the end of his prolific career, the David and Gladys Wright House reflects Wright’s refined understanding of organic architecture and his remarkable ability to adapt to the character of the site. The house, built with native concrete blocks, rises in a spiral form from the desert landscape, its curvilinear design echoing the shape of the nearby mountains.

David and Gladys Wright House, Photo: Andrew Pielage

The unique spiraling form of the house is a significant departure from the typical linear construction seen in many of Wright’s works, and it manifests his deep reverence for the natural world. The spiraling design ascends gracefully from the ground, turning 360 degrees to provide panoramic views of Camelback Mountain and the surrounding landscape.

Inside, Wright’s naturalistic design philosophy continues — the interior floor plan unfolds like a nautilus shell, with rooms radiating from the central hearth, embodying the hearth’s symbolic role as the heart of the home. The characteristics Wright touches—built-in furniture, extensive use of natural light, and harmonious color palettes—are in full swing here, creating a seamless dialogue between the exterior and interior spaces.

Notable, too, is the home’s thoughtful integration of modern technology for its time. It was designed with innovative features such as energy-efficient passive solar heating, natural cooling, and a functional, open kitchen that was ahead of its time.

Despite facing threats of demolition, the house has been preserved thanks to the concerted efforts of preservationists, historians, and fans of Wright’s work. Today, the David and Gladys Wright House stands as a testimony to Wright’s genius and his enduring influence on Modernist architecture.

At Optima®, we’re continually captivated by such Modernist masterpieces that speak volumes about the era’s architectural ethos. Frank Lloyd Wright’s David and Gladys Wright House, with its distinctive design blending built form and natural environment, remains a profound source of inspiration and a vivid embodiment of Wright’s creative brilliance.

Exploring Wilmette: Plaza del Lago

Posted on June 5, 2023 by Hunter

Plaza Del Lago, nestled on Sheridan Road in the heart of Wilmette, and a short distance from Optima VerdanaⓇ, is a historic marvel that effortlessly blends architectural elegance with commercial success. Conceived in the Roaring Twenties, this Spanish-style district was the first of its kind in the state, and it has persevered through time, maintaining its significance in the community as a hub for engagement.

Real estate visionary Henry G. Foreman was the mastermind behind Plaza Del Lago. In 1927, Foreman and various North Shore locals embarked on creating Spanish Court, a Mediterranean-inspired commercial hub boasting luxury apartments, upscale retail stores, and an automobile service station. Chicago-based architect Edward Hill Clark drew up the plans, initially intending to build four Spanish architecture-style complexes, a style associated with affluence at the time, along Sheridan Road.

Construction of the plaza concluded in 1928, and it promptly opened its doors to its first occupants, which included Spanish Court Pharmacy, Teatro del Lago, and Bill’s Realty. The architecture uniquely blended Spanish and Mediterranean influences with early 20th-century American design. The intricate archways, vibrant tiles, and ornate ironwork stand as a testament to the detailed craftsmanship that brought this landmark to life.

Unfortunately, a fire in the mid-1930s affected many buildings in the area, slowing traffic. However, years later, Evanston lawyer Plato Foufas discovered that a large section of the community, including the Spanish Court, was up for sale. Upon purchasing the land, Foufas began the renovation of the famed shopping plaza in 1967, adding arcade shops, new stores, a street fountain and renaming it Plaza del Lago.

Plaza del Lago’s original bell tower built in 1928

Over the years, Plaza Del Lago has expertly balanced vintage charm with modern utility. The original structure is carefully preserved, with several buildings retaining their initial function. The plaza’s bell tower, a feature from the original construction in 1928, remains one of its main architectural highlights today. The plaza now hosts a variety of annual events, from a summer concert series to art and car shows, along with a mixture of boutiques, gourmet food outlets and wellness studios, upholding Foreman’s vision of a bustling community hub.

Today, Plaza Del Lago remains a timeless symbol of Wilmette’s history and enduring spirit. It enchants visitors with its architectural grandeur, vibrant retail scene, and picturesque lakeside vistas, standing proudly as a prominent fixture in Wilmette’s narrative.

The Natural Splendor of Elmwood Dunes Preserve

Posted on May 24, 2023 by Hunter

At Optima®, we’re always excited to showcase places where our residents can connect with nature, engage in healthy outdoor activities, and experience the unparalleled beauty of local landscapes. Today, we’re turning our spotlight to a gem hidden right in Wilmette – the Elmwood Dunes Preserve.

Elmwood Dunes Preserve is a true oasis nestled amidst urban surroundings. Just a stone’s throw from Optima Verdana®, this preserve promises an unforgettable journey into an ecosystem where the quiet rustle of dune grass and the song of shorebirds are your only distractions.

Preserving an acre of remnant dune and swale habitat, Elmwood Dunes is a vestige of the original Wilmette. This preserve is a testament to the region’s geological past, showcasing an environment shaped by the winds and waves of prehistoric Lake Chicago. Here, you’ll find native grasses, wildflowers, and migrating birds, presenting an idyllic spot for nature enthusiasts.

Elmwood Dunes Preserve doesn’t just offer a tranquil green space for residents to enjoy; it’s an important haven for local biodiversity. After a brief encounter with invasive trees and shrubs in the past, community volunteers worked diligently together to restore the Elmwood habitat back to its former glory, introducing over 50 native plant species, all while protecting endangered species, and providing habitat for migratory bird species. This responsible approach to conservation makes Elmwood Dunes a shining example of how urban spaces can coexist with nature.

Elmwood Dunes. Photo: Village of Wilmette

Its serene walking trails offer an opportunity for peaceful contemplation, a leisurely walk with your dog, or a fun weekend adventure with the family. Whether you’re an avid birder, a nature photographer, or simply someone seeking a breath of fresh air, Elmwood Dunes Preserve is the place to be.

Visiting the preserve also offers an excellent opportunity to learn about local ecology and the importance of conservation efforts. Community stewardship is a key element of this preserve, with various educational programs and events held throughout the year for local schools!

Elmwood Dunes Preserve is more than just a nature preserve — it’s a vital part of our community’s commitment to sustainability and conservation. As an Optima Verdana® resident, you have this incredible natural resource right at your doorstep. Take advantage of it, enjoy it, and most importantly, respect and protect it for future generations. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with the peace and serenity it offers.

Women in Architecture: Glenda Kapstein

Posted on May 22, 2023 by Hunter

As part of our ongoing “Women in Architecture” series, we’re sharing the story of Glenda Kapstein, an activist for architectural innovation and environmental consciousness. Her impressive body of work has not only redefined the architectural landscape of her home country but has also served as an inspiration for architects worldwide. Discover the remarkable journey of her life and career below:

The Life of Glenda Kapstein

Born and raised in Santiago, Chile, Glenda Kapstein was a curious and imaginative child. The city’s skyline, with its mix of colonial charm and modern ambition, made it the perfect place to fall in love with architecture at a young age. One of her earliest inspirations was Cantalao, a project dedicated to the culture and people of Chile, promoted by Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.

Kapstein decided to pursue architecture as a career, enrolling at the University of Valparaíso in 1959 and spent two years of school studying across Europe before finally graduating in 1967. Following her graduation, she moved to Spain to work with Spanish Architects Antonio and José Camuñas, who were hired to complete more than 3,000 houses in and around Madrid. Kapstein continued to pick up a mixture of jobs, from working as the Regional Director of Tourism in Antofagasta, Chile, to teaching at the Catholic University of the North (UCN). However, she eventually left to help UCN establish an architecture department and create a study laboratory of her own. With her laboratory, Kapstein was able to explore her interests in how climate dictates architecture.

The House of Spiritual Exercises of the Alonso Ovalle Foundation in Antofagasta, 1991, Courtesy of Carla Monforte Kapstein

Fuelled by the desire to broaden her perspectives, in 1994, Kapstein pursued her Master’s degree from the prestigious Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. The university’s broad and holistic approach to architecture further nurtured her growing passion and seeded her design philosophy with the importance of context and cultural relevance. There, she was surrounded by an inspiring blend of cultures, perspectives, and design philosophies that further refined her approach toward architecture.

Notable Works and Achievements

In her professional work, Kapstein worked to shape architecture that was not just aesthetically appealing but also ecologically responsible and socially sensitive. She viewed architecture as a powerful medium to express the historical, environmental, and social context of a place. As a result, her designs sought to harmoniously blend these elements, creating spaces that were both functional and meaningful.

Intermediate space within The House of Spiritual Exercises of the Alonso Ovalle Foundation in Antofagasta, 1991, Courtesy of Carla Monforte Kapstein

The most iconic example of Kapstein’s vision is the House of Spiritual Exercises of the Alonso Ovalle Foundation in Antofagasta. Built in 1991, this project stands out as a beacon of sustainable architecture, with its design seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape. The build, executed under Kapstein’s leadership with fellow architect Osvaldo Muñoz, is characterized by various intermediate spaces linking the interiors with the exterior desert. It incorporates innovative, energy-efficient features that minimize environmental impact while providing a state-of-the-art space to celebrate Chile’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The project was a finalist for the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion Award for Latin American architecture in 1998 and the PLEA International Award in 2003, and was sadly demolished in 2019 for unknown reasons against the wishes of Kapstein’s family.

Another testament to Kapstein’s architectural philosophy is her work on the expansion of the Hotel Tulor in San Pedro de Atacama, a desert tourism hotspot. Still committed to ecological responsibility and cultural resonance, Kapstein incorporated local materials and traditional construction methods, resulting in an addition that seamlessly blended with the desert landscape and paid homage to the Atacama people’s heritage. Her design employed sustainable practices like passive cooling and heating to reduce energy consumption. The Hotel Tulor project underlines Kapstein’s distinct approach to architecture, combining innovation, sustainability, and cultural sensitivity, further establishing her as one of Chile’s most influential architects.

Rooms at Hotel Tulor, San Pedro de Atacama, made of adobe, wood and stone

Glenda Kapstein’s life and career are a testament to her commitment, creativity, and vision. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring architects, especially women, reminding us all that architecture is not just about creating structures, but about creating stories, preserving heritage, and designing a sustainable future.

Inside The Newest Tower at Optima Kierland Apartments: A Closer Look at the New and Evolving Amenities With Barbie Clemons

Posted on May 15, 2023May 15, 2023 by Hunter

Get ready to experience the ultimate luxury apartment living! The long-awaited completion of 7190 Optima Kierland Apartments in Scottsdale has finally arrived, and we’re thrilled to give you an exclusive look into all of its evolving amenities. We sat down with Barbie Clemons, General Manager at Optima Kierland Apartments, who shared all the details about what makes the tower’s incredible new amenities stand out from the rest:

What is the current state of the luxury amenity experience in Scottsdale? How has the definition of luxury amenities changed in recent years?

Everybody’s spending a lot more time on amenities. You can see it in Scottsdale being a resort town; people want that resort-style living and to have everything at their fingertips. In recent years, we’ve seen buildings adding more events to their rosters, making sure that they have a gym, pools, hot tubs, etc. And then you start seeing other communities sprinkling in a cardio room and some of those more niche amenities to set them apart. For example, there’s a brand new building up the street from us that has a spa atmosphere where they’ve built a massage room and some of those spa-like amenities.

But that’s something that Optima has always done, because we’ve always gone to the next level with our amenities. This gives us the unique opportunity to always be ahead of the curve, delivering experiences and features that residents are just starting to dream about!

What are residents/potential residents at 7190 most interested in?

At our new tower, Kierland 7190, we added a separate pickleball court. People are very excited about this addition because pickleball is such a phenomenon. In our other Kierland properties, we’ve transformed our basketball courts so residents can play basketball or pickleball. But in 7190, we now have a separate space that’s specifically for pickleball, and people are so excited about that.

They’re also excited about the Olympic-length pool on our rooftop here. It’s probably the longest pool I’ve ever seen on a rooftop, and it’s absolutely beautiful. Something else that has drawn people into our newer buildings is the rooftop track. We have a quarter-mile track that goes around the roof of our buildings, where residents can walk or jog and enjoy the views of McDowell Mountain, as well as a spa and cold plunge, and like our other buildings, lounge seating, fire pits, and an outdoor bar and kitchen.

7190 Optima Kierland Apartments’ outdoor covered Pickleball arena

What are some of Optima Kierland 7190’s evolved amenities?

There are so many! The rooftop track is a newer one, and the Olympic-length pool on the rooftop and pickleball court are some of the others. We also have a yoga studio that includes its own separate Pilates room. We’ve added full-blown pet spas and one of our most fun new additions, a golf experience. We also have our golf simulator and sports lounge indoors, and then outside, we have a new putting green and chipping area where residents can play on different types of terrain, which is unique.

What sets these amenities apart from other buildings in the community?

Kierland stands apart because each of our five buildings has its own set of amenities, which is so distinctive relative to other apartment communities where the amenities are centralized and shared by all of the residential buildings. So whichever Kierland tower you choose, you’re only sharing with the intimate community you’re already familiar with. It’s really a lifestyle that we sell here, not apartment living. We’re showing residents that they can have everything at their fingertips and not have to go to a Lifetime Fitness or something like that outside of our community if they don’t want to, we’ll bring it all to them.

How are your residents responding to the amenity experience at 7190?

What we’re hearing from residents is that they are genuinely excited about the fact that they don’t have to leave the community to have an amazing quality of life. Our residents don’t have to go to cryotherapy or visit another golfing place to play on a simulator. Everything is right here within easy reach. We also have everything from huddle rooms to conference rooms, making it extremely easy for residents to work from home. We have spaces to enjoy and activities for people to play, from racquetball and pickleball to our pool, ping pong, shuffleboard, and bocce ball. I mean, there’s something for every single person in these buildings.

If residents are retiring, selling their homes, and downsizing into apartment living for the first time in 30 years, their grandkids are going to have a ton of places to go and enjoy. Additionally, new to the 7190 tower, we have implemented a 24/7 door staff so residents will have someone available 24 hours a day as part of our staff!

Isamu Noguchi’s Freeform Sofa: A Timeless Classic in Optima Signature®

Posted on April 12, 2023 by Hunter

In the realm of iconic furniture design, few pieces stand the test of time quite like the Vitra Freeform Sofa by Isamu Noguchi. This groundbreaking piece, unveiled in 1946, remains celebrated and sought-after, embodying the perfect balance between art and functionality that is at the heart of the Optima® experience, and can be enjoyed in the public spaces within our Optima Signature® community.

Born in 1904, Isamu Noguchi was an innovative artist and designer who left an indelible mark on the worlds of sculpture, landscape architecture, and furniture design. As a Japanese-American artist, Noguchi deftly blended Eastern and Western influences to create works of art that transcends cultural boundaries. His designs encompassed a myriad of materials, including wood, stone, and metal, and reflected a keen understanding of the relationship between form and function.

Noguchi’s collaboration with Swiss furniture company Vitra led to the creation of the Freeform Sofa in 1946. At a time when post-World War II design was dominated by stark, linear forms, Noguchi’s organic, sculptural piece was a breath of fresh air. The Freeform Sofa was conceived as an artistic expression that pushed the boundaries of conventional furniture design. It wasn’t just a piece of furniture, but a work of art that elevated the aesthetics of any space it inhabited.

The Freeform Sofa’s distinctive, undulating silhouette sets it apart from other sofas. Its sweeping curves and biomorphic form are inspired by nature, showcasing Noguchi’s desire to create harmony between the organic world and the built environment. It comprises a single, continuous line, gracefully transitioning from the armrests to the backrest and seat, creating a fluid and cohesive form.

The sofa’s slim, solid wood legs are highly reminiscent of the delicate limbs of a tree, providing the necessary support without detracting from the overall elegance of the design. The legs are carefully positioned to ensure stability and balance, allowing the sofa to stand confidently within our Optima Signature® site.

Freeform Sofa Isamu Noguchi, 1946. Photo: Vitra®

Upholstered in high-quality fabric or leather, the Freeform Sofa offers unparalleled comfort. Its ergonomic design conforms to the contours of the human body, providing a luxurious seating experience. The sofa’s timeless appeal lies not only in its aesthetic beauty but also in its ability to adapt to various interior styles, from mid-century modern to contemporary minimalism.

The Vitra Freeform Sofa remains a design icon, a testament to Isamu Noguchi’s genius and his unwavering dedication to creating harmonious, functional works of art. This seminal piece of furniture has inspired countless designers and artists, and continues to be a sought-after addition to various homes, and offices. We are proud to showcase Noguchi’s furniture within our own spaces, designs which amplify and activate the evocative Modernist exteriors and interiors of our buildings.

Al Beadle: The Mid-Century Modern Master in Phoenix

Posted on April 10, 2023 by Hunter

When it comes to mid-century modern architecture in Arizona, the name Frank Lloyd Wright tends to come to mind first. It’s exciting to note, however, that there have been other luminary architects who made enormous contributions to modernist architectural traditions here in the desert. Today, we are happy to introduce one of these under-the-radar designers — a true pioneer in his time whose work continues to inspire practitioners and homeowners alike.

Born in 1927, Al Beadle grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota. He served with the United States Navy Construction Battalion, the Seabees, in the South Pacific during World War II. His experiences included building piers, designing command bases, and constructing hospitals. After his time in the military, where he acquired much of his architectural prowess, Beadle eventually moved to Phoenix where he would make his mark on the city’s architectural scene. Starting his own architecture and build firm in 1967, Beadle believed in the principles of minimalism, efficiency, and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Beadle’s unique design approach is evident in his many residential and commercial projects throughout the Phoenix area. His signature style often features clean lines, flat roofs, expansive glass walls, and a keen attention to detail. His buildings effortlessly blend with their desert surroundings, creating a harmonious balance between the built environment and the natural landscape.

Paradise Gardens

One of Beadle’s most iconic projects is the Paradise Gardens community. Developed between 1958 and 1964, this neighborhood showcases a collection of mid-century modern homes that embodies Beadle’s design philosophy. These homes are characterized by their post-and-beam construction, open floor plans, and large windows that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Beadle House 11

Another noteworthy example of Beadle’s work is Beadle House 11, which he designed for himself and his family. Completed in 1963, this stunning residence exemplifies the architect’s minimalist approach, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed steel beams, and sense of effortless elegance.

Beadle House 11 remodeled interior. Photo: ©2016 Modern Phoenix LLC

Today, Al Beadle’s architectural legacy lives on in the many buildings he designed throughout Phoenix and the surrounding areas. His work continues to be celebrated by architects, designers, and mid-century modern enthusiasts who appreciate the timeless quality of his designs. Preservation efforts are underway to ensure that Beadle’s architectural gems remain intact for future generations to enjoy.

In a city like Phoenix, where the natural beauty of the desert meets the sleek sophistication of modern design. Those who call this place home or are simply visiting, should consider checking out Al Beadle’s architectural masterpieces. From the effortlessly cool Paradise Gardens community located on 32nd Street to 36th Street and Mountain View, to the striking Beadle House 11 on 4323 E McDonald Dr, there’s no shortage of Beadle-designed gems to explore and appreciate.

Villa Weil: A French Modern Masterpiece

Posted on March 29, 2023 by Hunter

We’re always moved by stories of lost-and-found in the world of great modernist architecture, and that’s just what we discovered in a recent article by Joseph Giovannini in The New York Times about a French Modern Masterpiece brought back to life by Dominique Perrault and Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost, the architects leading the charge for master planning the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

Giovannini observes that for many architects, time is measured in the projects they undertake, and that every new project is an opportunity to create something meaningful and lasting. And when Dominique Perrault and Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost — partners in life and in the firm of Dominique Perrault Architecture went in search of a weekend country house outside of Paris, they were looking to feed their desire to enjoy both the city and nature. As it turns out, they were also looking for a project that would leave a lasting mark on the world.

For years, Perrault Architecture honed their appetite for monumental projects, including the design of the National Library of France in Paris in 1989 when Perrault was only 36. In looking for a country home, on the other hand, Perrault and Lauriot-Prévost were motivated by the desire for something personal, something that would reflect their own tastes and sensibilities rather than building for others.

They considered a host of options in their search for the right property, including repurposing a former factory. Nothing seemed quite right until a real-estate agent specializing in architect-built homes introduced the couple to a Modern masterpiece that had been largely forgotten — the Villa Weil, designed and built by Jean Dubuisson, a third-generation Parisian architect who came out of the École des Beaux-Arts to design Modernist housing blocks that helped build the infrastructure of France as it emerged from the wreckage of World War II. Villa Weil, situated in a protected forest near the medieval town of Senlis, north of Paris, was commissioned by the real estate developer André Weil and completed in 1968.

Mar Vista Residence in Los Angeles, CA. Photo: Andy Wang

Perrault and Lauriot-Prévost saw something special in the house, described by Giovanni as “a straight line of a building streaking across the landscape.” He writes, “Inside and out, the clean white planes, crisp machined corners and squared geometries are derived from International Style Modernism and recast into a new synthesis….The abstract lines and planes, like picture frames, bracket outdoor terraces that are landscaped like the Zen gardens Dubuisson had seen in Japan. Huge sliding glass doors recall the indoor-outdoor relationship of mid century Modernist California houses, by then well known in Europe.”

But the home wasn’t without its issues, since it had languished for years without proper attention. They restored the house with exquisite attention to its original design and materials. Today, Perrault and Lauriot-Prévost enjoy the long-forgotten estate with their two dogs, furnished with original mid-century Modernist furniture sourced online. As Giovanni relates, the couple remains dedicated to “expanding the property to its fullest potential — the basement and barn are being turned into exhibition spaces for a variety of shows and a home for their collection of models and drawings.” At the same time, the vision of the owners is to design and build flats that will host resident artists, architects, and researchers as part of a study center that will expand the life of the semi-private villa into a campus for a larger architecture and design community.

How Space Affects Mood

Posted on March 22, 2023March 23, 2023 by Hunter

Today, virtually every aspect of daily life seems to bring a measure of stress. And when thinking about how to cope, it’s reassuring to turn to science, where research studies continue to point to the fact that human health and the spaces in which we live, work, and play directly correlate with stress levels and mood. Since our earliest years and projects, Optima® has championed the primacy of interior space, and we continue to celebrate its importance for each and every one of our residents — including giving a few tips on how to make the most out of one’s own space!

The Importance of Natural Light

Previously, we’ve spoken about the positive effects of an abundance of natural light and expansive windows and the critical role they play in adhering to our principles of Modernist design. Sunlight alone holds many benefits that go beyond the physical. It helps increase serotonin and endorphin levels, two hormones that significantly boost our mood.

What simple steps can you take to maximize natural light in your space? Start by arranging mirrors to reflect light, making sure you’re not blocking light with furniture, and rethink the use of dark drapes or shades.

Natural light at Optima Lakeview®, Chicago, IL

Perception

The impression a space makes affects your mood, as well, and happens on an immediate and intuitive level as your mind and body engage with the physical environment. Picture an expansive living/dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows where you are drawn to gather with family and friends (or curl up with your pooch). Juxtapose that impression with what you would feel when entering a cluttered, dim room with little space to move around.

Take advantage of the layout of your space to maintain a sense of effortless flow in and around furniture and built-in elements, and keep piles and stacks to a minimum!

Introducing Color

Color isn’t merely visual eye candy, it provides a psychological experience, as well. Beyond the sense of tranquility that the Modernist palette of monochromatic tones of gray, white, and black offer, expanding your space’s palette can make a world of difference in boosting your mood.

Extending a hand to vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange can give you feelings of passion and comfort. Cooler colors on the other side of the spectrum, like blue, green, and purple, can be peaceful, calming, or comforting. Sprinkling bits of color throughout your space is a surefire way to add a new emotional dimension to the environment and enhance your mood.

Terrace gardening at Optima Sonoran Village® — Vertical landscaping at Optima Sonoran Village®

Budding Companions Can Increase Mood

We’ve written in the past about the mental health value of introducing budding companions such as house plants or flowers into your space, based on the results of comprehensive studies that show how the presence of plants improves concentration and memory retention while also reducing stress.

Make a regular habit of keeping plants and flowers around your home, and enjoy their affect of reducing the likelihood of depression and increasing positive feelings — in addition to the aesthetic beauty they provide.

From the feedback we continue to receive from Optima® residents, living in one of our communities sets the stage for high spirits and upbeat moods. With “great bones” in the design of our residences, optimized for openness, materiality and light, the opportunity to transform living space into home becomes a joy.

The Softline Opera Chair: A Symphony of Possibilities

Posted on March 20, 2023 by Hunter

As we continue to tour the public spaces at Optima® communities to highlight the curated collection of Modernist furnishings, such as the Eames chair, or tulip table, etc. We find it just as important to highlight recent advances of Modernist furniture design, propelled forward by the likes of Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, Florence Knoll, and so many other masters of design. Today we introduce you to the OPERA chair at Optima Lakeview®, by SOFTLINE.

Brief History

SOFTLINE has been creating and producing innovatively designed furniture for a global market since 1979. The enterprise was founded as a division of K. Balling-Engelsen A/S, a Danish producer of technical polyurethane foam. For decades, this high-quality, flexible foam has been the material of choice for furniture production due to its unique properties.

In 2003, they became an independent, privately-owned enterprise with a factory in Denmark, where the upholstery is performed by hand, based on Scandinavian traditions and utilizing eco-friendly materials.

OPERA

The OPERA chair designed by Busk+Herzog serves a symphony of possibilities at Optima Lakeview® in its ability to elegantly blend modern and contemporary styles. From its high armrests, to provide privacy for all matters of which you may want to hide, to its backrest and cushion that completely envelopes your body.

The OPERA can also be used as a versatile lounge chair in larger configurations, much like PLANET, or in smaller configurations like PIERCE. Both of these elegant iterations can be found together just steps away at Optima Kierland® in Scottsdale. The OPERA chair provides a human-scale sense of privacy, as well as a space for contemplation or conversation in our business center. This striking piece is the perfect place for our residents to relax in solitude without being completely separated from friends, and we’re delighted to include this iconic design to Optima’s® Modernist collection!

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