About 360 MAGAZINE

360 MAGAZINE is an award-winning international publishing on popular culture and design. We introduce avant trademarks to efficacious architects. We are a LGBTQIA2S+ friendly publication--officially recognized by the NGLCC. Our core demographic ranges from 19 to 39-year-old college-educated trendsetters within their respective international communities. The pages in this art book satisfy their strong interests including music, art, travel, auto, health, fashion, tech, philanthropy, design, food and entrepreneurship. It's an introspective digital/print/tablet portrait series, which encapsulates artists/brands/entities who embody the true essence of our publication- empowerment, equality, sensuality and most important of all, humanity within a global society.

Examining Retail Investor Impact on Open Interest

Have you ever wondered how the actions of small-time investors ripple through the market? Retail investors, armed with apps and social media buzz, are shaking up open interest like never before. It’s like watching a tiny snowball roll down a hill, only to see it grow into an avalanche. Let’s dive into how these everyday traders are making a big splash in the financial world. Delve deeper into the effects of retail investor behavior with https://immediate-flow.com, where financial experts illuminate the subtleties of market dynamics.

The Ripple Effect: How Retail Trading Trends Shift Open Interest

When retail investors jump into the market, it’s like throwing a pebble into a pond. The ripples spread far and wide. Imagine a scenario where a bunch of small fish suddenly start swimming in the same direction—it’s going to make some waves, right? That’s what happens when retail investors act in unison. They can shift market trends significantly, even if they don’t have the massive capital that institutional investors do.

Social media platforms and online forums amplify this effect. Places like Reddit’s WallStreetBets or finance-focused Twitter accounts can spark a frenzy. When a stock starts trending, retail investors often rush to buy or sell, creating a domino effect. It’s a bit like a flash mob—one minute the market is calm, the next, it’s buzzing with activity.

Retail trading trends can lead to spikes in open interest, indicating an increase in the number of outstanding contracts. This can signal heightened investor interest and potential volatility. It’s essential for all investors to watch these trends, as they can provide early warnings of shifts in market sentiment. So, keep an eye out—those online buzzes can turn into market roars before you know it.

FOMO and Herd Mentality: Psychological Drivers of Retail Investors

Ever felt that nagging fear of missing out, or FOMO? It’s a powerful force, especially in investing. Think about it—your friend just made a killing on a stock, and suddenly, you’re itching to get in on the action. This FOMO can lead retail investors to make impulsive decisions, buying into stocks without thorough research.

Then there’s herd mentality. It’s like being at a concert and suddenly everyone rushes to one side of the stage—you might not even know why, but you follow the crowd. In investing, when people see others buying a particular stock, they often jump on the bandwagon. This behavior can inflate stock prices quickly, creating bubbles.

These psychological drivers can cause significant swings in open interest. When large numbers of retail investors follow trends driven by FOMO or herd mentality, the volume of trading increases. This can lead to higher volatility and unpredictable market movements. So, next time you feel that urge to follow the crowd, take a step back and ask yourself—am I investing or just reacting?

Data-Driven Decisions: The Intersection of Technology and Retail Investment

Technology has transformed how we invest. Remember when you had to call a broker to make a trade? Those days are long gone. Now, with just a few taps on a smartphone, anyone can access the stock market. Trading apps and platforms provide retail investors with tools and data that were once reserved for professionals.

Algorithmic trading, for instance, allows retail investors to use automated systems to execute trades based on pre-set criteria. It’s like having a robot do the heavy lifting for you. These algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data in seconds, making it easier to spot trends and make informed decisions.

But it’s not just about convenience. These tools level the playing field, giving retail investors access to real-time data, analysis, and trading options that can rival those of institutional investors. This democratization of information can lead to more active trading and increased open interest. However, remember—while technology can enhance your trading experience, it’s essential to understand the tools you’re using to avoid costly mistakes.

The Four Pillars: Key Ways Retail Investor Behavior Influences Open Interest

Retail investor behavior impacts open interest in four key ways:

  1. Liquidity Boosts: When retail investors flood the market, they increase liquidity. More participants mean more buying and selling, making it easier to enter and exit positions. This increased activity can drive up open interest, reflecting the higher volume of outstanding contracts.
  2. Volatility and Stability: Retail actions can either stabilize or destabilize the market. Picture a boat on a calm lake—if everyone suddenly shifts to one side, it’s going to rock. Similarly, if retail investors collectively buy or sell, it can cause significant price swings. This volatility can create opportunities for profit but also increase risk.
  3. Market Trends and Patterns: Retail investors often follow trends, which can reinforce or create new market patterns. For example, a surge in buying a particular stock can lead to a sustained upward trend, increasing open interest as more contracts are created to meet demand.
  4. Regulatory Reactions: Sometimes, the collective behavior of retail investors can lead to regulatory changes. For instance, the GameStop saga prompted discussions about market regulations and trading halts. These regulatory responses can impact how open interest evolves by changing the rules of the game.

Understanding these pillars can help you navigate the market more effectively. So, keep an eye on retail trends—they’re not just noise; they’re signals that can provide valuable insights into market movements.

Conclusion

Retail investors are more than just a buzzword—they’re game-changers in today’s markets. By understanding their behaviors, from FOMO-driven trades to tech-savvy decisions, you can better navigate the ups and downs of open interest. So, next time you spot a trend, remember: the little fish can make big waves. Happy trading!

Advanced Techniques for Utilizing Volume Indicators

In the fast-paced world of trading, volume indicators are like secret weapons, revealing market strength and potential reversals. Advanced techniques for using these indicators can significantly boost your trading strategy. Ready to dive deeper into the mechanics behind price movements and make more informed decisions? Let’s explore how mastering volume indicators can transform your trading game. Visit https://stocks-edge-ai.org/ connects you with leading trading experts to master advanced techniques in using volume indicators.

Volume-Weighted Average Price (VWAP): A Comprehensive Guide

VWAP stands for Volume-Weighted Average Price. It gives an average price of a security, adjusted for its volume over a particular time. Think of it as a tool that helps us see the fair value of a stock throughout the day. For traders, VWAP is like a compass, guiding them through the market noise.

Calculating VWAP involves summing up the total dollar value of all trading transactions and then dividing it by the total volume. This means it’s not just about price, but how much of the stock has been traded at that price. Imagine trying to figure out the most popular dish at a restaurant. You wouldn’t just look at how many people ordered each dish, but also at the cost of those dishes. VWAP works in a similar way.

Traders often use VWAP to spot good entry and exit points. If the price is below the VWAP, it might be seen as a good buying opportunity because it suggests the stock is undervalued. Conversely, if the price is above the VWAP, it might indicate a good selling point. Ever tried shopping during a sale? You want to buy when prices are low, not high. VWAP helps you find those low points.

To make the most of VWAP, combine it with other indicators. It works well with moving averages, for instance, to confirm trends. This makes it a valuable tool in any trader’s toolbox. Remember, it’s not just about using VWAP alone but integrating it into your broader strategy for better decision-making.

On-Balance Volume (OBV) Advanced Applications

On-Balance Volume (OBV) is a momentum indicator that uses volume flow to predict changes in stock price. OBV adds volume on up days and subtracts volume on down days. It’s like keeping a running tally of the market’s enthusiasm. When people are excited about a stock, they buy more, and OBV goes up. When they’re not, they sell, and OBV goes down.

OBV is especially useful in confirming trends and spotting divergences. For example, if the price of a stock is rising but the OBV is falling, it might be a sign that the trend is losing strength. Think of it as a crowd at a concert. If the music is getting louder (the stock price is rising) but people are leaving (OBV is falling), the excitement is waning.

Advanced traders use OBV to validate breakouts or breakdowns. If a stock breaks through resistance but the OBV doesn’t confirm it by moving in the same direction, the breakout might be false. It’s like checking both your rearview and side mirrors before changing lanes; you want to be sure everything aligns.

You can also use OBV in conjunction with other indicators like the Relative Strength Index (RSI). This combination can help you make more informed decisions. For instance, if OBV is rising and RSI is also in a favorable range, it strengthens your case for a potential buy.

To sum up, OBV is a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can provide valuable insights into market trends and potential reversals. It helps us see beyond price and into the underlying strength of market moves.

Volume Profile: Unveiling Market Psychology

Volume Profile is a charting tool that shows the distribution of trading volume over different price levels. It provides a clear picture of which prices had the most trading activity. Imagine a heatmap that highlights where traders were most active. Volume Profile does just that.

By using Volume Profile, we can identify key support and resistance levels. These are the prices where a lot of trading happened and where the market might react again. Think of it as finding the busiest aisles in a supermarket; those are the areas where you know the action is happening.

Traders use Volume Profile to gauge market sentiment. High volume at certain price levels indicates strong interest and can act as a magnet for future prices. For instance, if a stock repeatedly finds support around a particular price, it’s likely because that’s where buyers feel it’s a good value. Conversely, high volume at higher prices might signal strong resistance.

Volume Profile also helps in planning entry and exit points. For example, if you see that a stock tends to bounce off a specific price level with high volume, you might plan to buy at that level and sell when it reaches another high-volume area. It’s like knowing the busiest stops on a bus route; you plan your trip accordingly.

Incorporating Volume Profile into your trading strategy can give you a deeper understanding of market dynamics. It reveals not just where prices have been, but where the significant battles between buyers and sellers occurred. This insight is invaluable for making more informed trading decisions.

Volume Oscillators: Enhancing Signal Accuracy

Volume oscillators are indicators that measure the relationship between volume and price movements. They help us see the momentum behind market moves. One popular volume oscillator is the Chaikin Money Flow (CMF). It’s like checking the pulse of the market to see how healthy the current trend is.

CMF looks at both price and volume to gauge buying and selling pressure over a specified period. When CMF is positive, it indicates that buying pressure is strong. When it’s negative, selling pressure dominates. Imagine it as a scale tipping back and forth between buyers and sellers.

Another useful volume oscillator is the Volume Oscillator (VO), which shows the difference between two volume moving averages. When the VO is above zero, it indicates that recent volume is higher than the longer-term average, suggesting strong market activity. Think of it as comparing today’s weather to the seasonal average; it gives you context on whether current conditions are normal or unusual.

Using volume oscillators can enhance the accuracy of your trading signals. For instance, if you’re considering buying a stock, you might look for a positive CMF to confirm that there’s strong buying interest. Similarly, a rising VO can support a decision to enter a trade, as it indicates increasing volume momentum.

One handy tip is to combine volume oscillators with other indicators like moving averages or trend lines. This way, you get a more rounded view of the market. For example, a positive CMF and a bullish moving average crossover can give you more confidence in your trade.

Conclusion

Understanding and leveraging advanced volume indicators can be a game-changer in trading. By integrating tools like VWAP, OBV, and volume profiles, you gain valuable insights into market dynamics. Keep experimenting, stay informed, and always consult with financial experts. These techniques might just give you the edge you need to succeed in the market.

RAKAS Rolf Ekroth + Kalevala

A Collaboration Launched at Copenhagen Fashion Week 

Finnish Fashion Designer Rolf Ekroth brings “lavatanssit” – a term loosely translating to open-air dance and deep Finnish spirit to Copenhagen Fashion Week. In collaboration with Rolf Ekroth, Finnish Kalevala Jewelry launched the RAKAS Rolf Ekroth x Kalevala collaboration as a part of Rolf Ekroth runway show on 5th of August.  The collaboration includes a versatile piece of jewelry and scarves. The jewelry is made from recycled silver, handcrafted at Kalevala Koru‘s factory in Helsinki, Finland. The RAKAS (Finnish for Loved one) jewelry functions as an earring, scarf jewelry, and versatile accessory limited only by imagination.

At Copenhagen Fashion Week, Finnish design and fashion will captivate the world with creativity that stems from the core of Finnish identity. The new RAKAS jewelry and scarves, created in collaboration with Rolf Ekroth, was launched in Copenhagen Fashion Week on August 5, 2024. Rolf Ekroth is the rising star of Finnish fashion design and one of the designers of the CPHFW New Talent program.

“The goal is to spotlight the more exotic, peculiar, and beautiful aspects of Finland and the Nordic countries. The entire collection’s concept, as well as the show, is based on themes from Finland that interest me. Sustainability is crucial both to me and to Kalevala Koru. In addition to using recycled materials, we jointly promote the idea of versatile jewelry and clothing, emphasizing comfort and gender-neutral fashion,” explains Fashion Designer Rolf Ekroth.

In Rolf Ekroth´s collection, RAKAS jewelry is adapted T-shirts and dresses – a showstopper in the collection is a dress embellished with 180 jewelry.

“The product development team at Kalevala Koru has been closely involved in realizing my visions. The collaboration with the Kalevala team is seamless, and their expertise in crafting jewelry with Finnish craftsmanship is something that few companies still have in Finland on this scale. Besides responsible production and materials, Kalevala Koru’s commitment to doing good is significant internationally and a clear differentiator,” continues Ekroth.

“The RAKAS Rolf Ekroth x Kalevala collaboration, now showcased in Copenhagen, highlights Finnish design and craftsmanship. The new collection continues the successful partnership with Rolf Ekroth that began at Copenhagen Fashion Week last summer. This is a good example of how companies can support emerging designers. For us, the collaboration represents a bold culture of co-creation and international boundary-pushing in fashion and design,” says Kalevala Koru’s Creative Director, Aino Ahlnäs.

“The circular economy is a prerequisite for our operations, and all Kalevala jewelry is handcrafted in Finland at our factory. Sustainability is also a key design principle for Ekroth, whose creativity draws from Finnishness. We share many values. Working with Rolf Ekroth has been extremely inspiring. He is an exceptionally talented designer and a strong storyteller,” Ahlnäs continues.

The RAKAS Rolf Ekroth x Kalevala collaboration includes a versatile piece of jewelry and scarves. The rose motif, characteristic of Rolf Ekroth, symbolizes nostalgia and longing for the past. In the RAKAS collection, the rose motif has been reinterpreted as a 3D piece of jewelry. The jewelry is made from recycled silver, handcrafted at Kalevala Koru’s factory in Helsinki, Finland. The RAKAS piece functions as an earring, scarf jewelry and versatile accessory limited only by imagination. The RAKAS Rolf Ekroth x Kalevala collection will be available for purchase in early 2025.

CPHFW via 360 MAGAZINE
CPHFW via 360 MAGAZINE
CPHFW via 360 MAGAZINE
CPHFW via 360 MAGAZINE.

CLARENT + MYKE TOWERS

CLARENT RELEASES HIS NEW SINGLE
“SPORT + RMX”
WITH MYKE TOWERS

LISTEN HERE
WATCH VIDEO HERE

Undoubtedly, Clarent is one of the artists setting the streets of Puerto Rico on fire. His new single “SPORT + RMX,” features global superstar Myke Towers. This song is revolutionizing the urban scene and further elevating Clarent’s status as a rising icon.
 
Since his breakthrough in the music scene, Clarent has captivated his followers with an innovative trap style and a unique brand. With just a few songs out, he has achieved what many can only dream of: collaborating with Myke Towers, one of the most influential names in Latin urban music. “SPORT + RMX” is a powerful song with the spirit of a car speeding down the road, reflecting Clarent’s growing recognition in the urban scene.
 
This new release is not merely proof of Clarent’s talent but also a celebration of his rapid ascent. Currently, Clarent has three tracks in the Top 25 of San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Apple Music, including two songs in the Top 10: “La de Bassy” and “Traqueto,” featuring iZaak. His previous single “Casamigos” showcased his talent, reaching the #1 position in PR. His ability to connect with the public and the authenticity in each of his songs position him as an undeniable force in urban music.
 
SPORT + RMX” takes Clarent’s energy and talent to new heights. Accompanied by the Young King, Myke Towers, this single showcases Clarent’s power and determination to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.

Victor Kerpel + Fanyu Lin

Echoes Unveiled | Curated by Haim Mizrahi

August 8, 2024 – September 9, 2024

Reception: Saturday, August 17, 4—7 PM

LTV East Hampton: 75 Industrial Rd, Wainscott, NY 11975

Bridging Artistic Worlds: The Dialogue Between Tradition and Modernity

In the realm of art, juxtaposing contrasting styles often yields intriguing narratives that transcend the boundaries of convention. As a curator passionate about fostering creative dialogue, I find profound fascination in the convergence of seemingly disparate artistic sensibilities. In this exhibition, I’ve curated a compelling pairing of two artists whose work embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

The first artist, Victor Kerpel, infuses his contemporary creations with a deep reverence for tradition. His pieces exude a sense of timelessness, drawing inspiration from classical techniques and motifs while imbuing them with a modern twist. It’s as if he is engaging in a dialogue with the past, seamlessly integrating historical elements into his innovative compositions.

In contrast, the second artist, Fanyu Lin, embraces abstraction and experimentation, pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic norms. Yet, beneath the surface of her avant-garde creations lies a subtle homage to the time-honored principles of artistic expression. Her work serves as a testament to the enduring influence of tradition, even in the most forward-thinking of artistic endeavors.

By bringing these two artists together, I aim to create a space where viewers can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of human creativity. It’s a journey of exploration and discovery, where visitors are invited to traverse the intersection of tradition and modernity, forging connections between seemingly disparate artistic worlds.

In this exhibition, art becomes a catalyst for dialogue, transcending temporal and ideological divides to reveal the inherent interconnectedness of artistic expression. It’s an opportunity to delve into the complexities of the human experience and uncover new layers of meaning within the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.

BRAVO BRINGS THE 411 TO THE 305

WITH ‘WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE WITH ANDY COHEN’ AND EXCLUSIVE ONE-DAY FAN FEST IN MIAMI “WWHL” to Tape Five Shows Culminating with a One-Day Fan Fest featuring 25+ Bravolebrities Nov. 21-23

All tickets go on sale on Friday, Aug. 9 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT

On the heels of a milestone 15th anniversary, Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen” brings the Clubhouse to life in Miami with five shows across two days on Thursday, Nov. 21 and Friday, Nov. 22. The excitement continues with the exclusive Bravo Fan Fest on Saturday, Nov. 23 – an intimate one-day celebration where fans can experience themed activations, panels, and photo opportunities with an all-star lineup of 25+ Bravolebrities. Ice Palace Studios will serve as home to all three days of the Bravo festivities. 

  • Tickets for “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen” and Bravo Fan Fest Miami will go on sale Friday, Aug. 9 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT available at www.bravofanfest.com.
  • Tickets for each “WWHL” taping and Bravo Fan Fest to be sold separately.
  • Talent expected to attend will be from several hit Bravo series, including the “Below Deck” franchise, “Married to Medicine,” “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” “The Real Housewives of Miami,” “The Real Housewives of New York City,” “The Real Housewives of Potomac,” “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” “Southern Charm” and “Summer House.”
  • The full list of Bravolebrities and additional programming details will be announced at a later date. Stay in the know by signing up to be a Bravo Insider today for free and by following Bravo on Instagram, X and Facebook.
  • See Bravo’s social announcement here

MONTERY CAR WEEK 2024

Maserati set for world premiere of new super sports car

On Friday, August 16, in the setting of the traditional and unmistakable “The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering” event in California, Maserati is preparing to unveil its newest creation to the world.

Resulting from the Trident’s experience on track and dedicated to those who do not wish to sacrifice extraordinary performance on the road, this new car guarantees innovative technological solutions and impressive aerodynamic performance, typical of the fastest and most exciting racing cars.

The Maserati super sports car will be presented as part of one of the most anticipated and prestigious motorsports gatherings of the year, an event that brings together enthusiasts from all around the world, breathtaking models, as well as previews and exclusive auctions: Monterey Car Week, due to take place in California from August 14 to 19.

This powerful car – designed, developed, and produced entirely in Italy by Maserati – inherits the racing spirit of the Maserati GT2, the spearhead of the Modena brand’s racing production; at the same time, it is a further evolution of the MC20, the Trident’s halo car, first equipped with the unmistakable V6 Nettuno engine.

The MC20 project represents state of the art of Maserati performance. From the outset of its technical development, a racing evolution was envisaged that would come to life in two directions, with the track version and its road counterpart, developed in close synergy by the same team that shares technological know-how and certain specific components.

The highly anticipated new leading light in the Maserati range will be the focus of this electrifying American show, which offers glamour, style, refined elegance, and stunning array of classic and modern cars that win over crowds and enchant the most discerning of collectors.
Enthusiasts will find themselves before a one-of-a-kind car with an unmistakable aesthetic, defined by a wide range of customisation options, with details typical of a racing car without sacrificing the comfort and hallmarks of road models.

A car destined to be on the wish list of customers attracted by the most extreme super sports cars, is ready to welcome drivers and make them feel like a true racer, even off the track.

The world premiere of this new Maserati, due to take place on Friday, August 16 at 9:12 am PST, will be introduced by Giovanni Perosino, the brand’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, along with Klaus Busse, Maserati Head of Design. The exclusive setting of The Quail will also play host to the MC20 Icona and MCXtrema.

MC20 Icona, a special series produced as a limited edition and inspired by the 2004 MC12 Stradale, was presented in June 2024 and will be seen for the first time in person by the North American public.
MCXtrema, unveiled at The Quail in 2023, is the most formidable Maserati racing car, type-approved for track use only: dedicated to the excellence of gentleman drivers and fans of racing cars, only 62 units have been produced, the first of which will be delivered at the Laguna Seca circuit during Monterey Car Week 2024. 

Dolce&Gabbana + Gurney’s Montauk Resort

This summer, Dolce&Gabbana will bring its unique style to Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa with a total creative takeover and pop-up shop.

This summer sees the iconic Montauk resort dressed in the Blu Mediterraneo fantasy of Dolce&Gabbana. The shades of white and intense blue of the traditional majolica color the entire area of the beach club and lounge, transporting the mind into the most authentic Mediterranean atmospheres. An exclusive pop-up store, which takes up the same colors in the timelessly elegant vertical striped pattern, offers an exclusive selection of Dolce&Gabbana clothing and accessories, offering an experience characterized by the Italian dolce vita.

Wild and isolated, loved by surfers, artists and adventurers from all over the world, it is the ideal destination to enjoy a glamorous holiday immersed in the charm of nature.

Dolce&Gabbana and Gurney’s Montauk Resort via 360 Magazine.
Dolce&Gabbana and Gurney’s Montauk Resort via 360 Magazine.
Dolce&Gabbana and Gurney’s Montauk Resort via 360 Magazine.
Dolce&Gabbana and Gurney’s Montauk Resort via 360 Magazine.
Dolce&Gabbana and Gurney’s Montauk Resort via 360 Magazine.

QT PERTH

High atop the Western Australian capital, the 18th floor Rooftop at QT Perth is now home to a seasonal, Japanese-inspired Zen Garden as the Australian winter blends into spring, through the end of September. In an exclusive collaboration with the House of Suntory, Rooftop at QT has been transformed into a lush cherry blossom garden, complete with signature cocktails featuring Japanese Haku Vodka, Roku Gin, Hibiki and Toki Whisky.

The resident mixologists at Rooftop at QT have curated a refreshing roster of seasonal cocktails, including: Toki teapot infusions, Haku Vodka paired with QT’s unique twists, and Roku Gin served with imaginative tonics. Standout cocktail creations include Matcha Made in Heaven (which combines Haku Vodka with sake, coconut, almond milk and matcha tea) and The Butterfly Effect (which diffuses Roku Gin with lavender, grapefruit, lemon, yuzu soda and butterfly pea tea).

“We look forward to welcoming the city for an early sip of spring at The Zen Garden on the Rooftop at QT,” says Steven James, QT Perth’s General Manager. “This partnership with House of Suntory brings a unique fusion of tradition and modernity, offering our guests an unparalleled rooftop experience.”

House of Santory Ambassador James Buntin says, “Imagine experiencing the best that Japan has to offer—right in the heart of Perth. You’ll find a beautiful balance of elements, spicy delicacies, and expertly crafted cocktails featuring Hibiki, Toki, Roku Gin, and Haku Vodka. Cuddle up, savor these exceptional drinks, and feel as though you’ve embarked on your own personal trip to Japan.”

Rooftop at QT © QT Perth

The Zen Garden on the Rooftop at QT Perth will be in full bloom from July 27 through September 30, 2024. For more information, visit qtperth.com.

BLACK & MILK TRANSFORMS APARTMENT

IN LONDON’S BRUTALIST BARBICAN ESTATE

An iconic Barbican apartment interior has received a modern refresh by award-winning design studio, Black & Milk. London based studio Creative Director, Olga Alexeeva, leads the interior architecture and design practice that tackles spatial challenges with substance and refinement through modern design – and the case of this redesign of the ‘Type 71’ apartment in the capital’s famous brutalist housing estate is no exception. 

Originally completed in 1969, Gilbert House is raised on concrete pilotis over the Barbican Lake below, and the brutalist architecture of the Barbican Estate is iconic of its genre. This particular apartment is a ‘Type 71’ configuration; the L-shaped plan faces south and has a running balcony, linking the bedroom and living room, looking out over St Giles Church. The apartment was very much in need of some modernisation.

Responding to the brief, the new design is intended for a couple who recently retired and wanted a retreat within the romantic surroundings of their favorite brutalist inner city. In her approach, Olga employed a minimalist touch, maintaining the 20th century character of the apartment interiors which was frozen in time with pink fabric walls and bright pops of green paint, whilst reviving the space with contemporary interventions and mod-cons

Complementing the architecture and honing on the previous elements, such as the original kitchenette and walnut paneling, Black & Milk created a new eclectic aesthetic, taking inspiration from Barbican cultural influences and refining them into a harmonious design. On unveiling the new style, the space is now filled with a collection of vintage and modern furniture and art and of great importance on the quality of the materials and design detail was considered when renovating the Grade II-listed flat.

Whilst maintaining the historic floor plan, a strategic approach was implemented within the spatial configuration of the apartment. As there are limitations to what can be removed structurally, the open plan living area flooring was intentionally divided with oak wood and bespoke olive-green leather tiles to distinguish the living and dining spaces whilst also providing functionality.

A bespoke kitchenette designed by Black & Milk pays tribute to the Brutalist’s apartment original characteristics designed by Chamberlin Powell & Bon. Enriched with modern interventions, eco-friendly materials were selected throughout and with a contrasting fibreglass finished used for the sliding upper cabinet storage and the decor remained clean and simple, based on craft and the original design’s modernist approach.

The Barbican was developed from designs by architects Chamberlin, Powell & Bon as part of a utopian vision to transform an area of London left devastated by bombing during the Second World War. Latterly described by Queeen Elizabeth as “one of the modern wonders of the world,” the estate is now widely considered a masterpiece of Brutalist architecture and a shining beacon of potential for inner-city high-density residential schemes.

Designing for over 20 years, Black & Milk has recently unveiled designs for other residential projects across London, including an apartment in the iconic Battersea Power Station.

Speaking about this project, Olga Aleeeva, comments, “The scheme attempts to show a thoughtfulness and direction of how these important interiors can be updated and modernised while still respecting the original architectural character and atmosphere,” said the team. “These new spaces sit happily alongside original interiors through a shared knowledge and a close attention to detail.”