Congratulations to Udaya Kumar Dharmalingam! The graduate student's design for a new Indian rupee symbol, which beat out 3,000 others, was approved by India's cabinet on Thursday. The symbol combines the Roman "R" with the Devanagari "Ra." [Reuters]

‘Invisible’ Set of Green Homes to be Hidden Underground

Going green does not just mean eco-friendly building systems and sustainable construction materials. It can also imply a blending with the landscape – an implied recognition that our structures come second to nature. That, at least, is the idea behind this set of remarkable modern underground home designs commissioned by Michael Hill.

The restrictions on their construction are severe with good reason: to preserve the rolling hillscape of this former golf course, all of the houses will be nearly entirely underground and environment-disturbing exterior amenities (such as spas or swimming pools) are forbidden as they would spoil the surrounding landscapes. Seventeen homes in total are planned for this expansive stretch of grassy hills.

The design concept revolves around privacy but also around maintaining natural beauty and the seclusion that comes with being in a truly natural setting. While small outdoor fireplaces and courtyards will be permitted much of the design of these homes is interior-focused, including libraries and wine cellars.

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Best Deck Ever: Contemporary Cantilever House Design

The pictures simply do not do justice to the view from this incredible set cantilevered constructions, jutting out from the core structure of the house and seeming to hover in space. JCB architects took their inspiration for this twisting, turning and thrusting form from a fallen log with its associated branches.

With only thin clear glass between the patio and the world below, one gets a sense of standing on the edge of the void. In another thrust deck area sits a stunning nearly-edgeless exterior swimming pool – all traces of support are clearly not visible in these pictures nor to visitors.

The experience of moving through this home is intentionally staged at each step of the way, from the winding entryway to the expansive views exposed once inside. The incredible living and gathering areas thrust out in the cantilevers also serve to provide privacy to other interior areas.

A combination of weathered wood and dark paint help bring the house back down to Earth – blending it with the surrounding natural landscape. Hidden beams hold up some truly suspended parts of the building while thin columns support others thrust sections. However, the more modest side of the home contains the entrance so as not to spoil the surprise for guests or the view for passers by.

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