The brief for the architects at RM\Architecture is to capture the essence of Brazilian style in a 115 square metre apartment in Rome, a challenge the team pulled off with the grace of a capoeira master.

The designers at Bangkok-based Onion take inspiration from the mature tropical trees on the site of SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort's sister property to create a tranquil oasis a world away from the hustle and bustle of the beach.

Japanese zen style goes far beyond minimalist white spaces. It is about thoughtful spaces which encourage the contemplation of light, colours, textures and shapes - the building blocks of nature and beauty. The Shutter House in Perth is a great example.

There was a time when the use of marble was largely restricted to floors, posh kitchen counters and grave statutes. And then, at some point around the mid-noughties, marble was everywhere. Could the same be happening to terrazzo?

Curves - they are organic, playful, comforting and sensual - what's not to like? The architects at Toronto-based Partisans certainly agree, and they are masters at applying curves in their projects.

Minimalism is about much more than empty spaces. It is the artful use of light, colour and objects to define spaces, creating an atmosphere that is warm and contemplative. The BU1H house, designed by Igor Sirotov Architects, is a great example.

American artist-designer John Eric Byers cites, amongst others, Donald Judd and Richard Serra as sources of his inspiration. The influence of these American masters of minimalism are clear to see from the furniture he has created.

The Woodnest treehouse was born from a dream. When Norwegian native Kjartan wanted to marry Sally, who hails from Australia, he decided to show his dedication by building a treehouse in which to propose to her.

Those who doubt the uplifting power of colour should look no further than this jewel-box of an apartment in the Navigli area of Milan designed by Studio Tenca.

The new Mexico City office of Broissin architects offers some clues on what workplaces may look like in the future now that the COVID crisis has demonstrated the feasibility of working from home, sending the office sector into crisis.

Could a quirky office compound, designed by a quirky architectural practice for a co-working office operator famous for its quirky buildings offer a template for post-pandemic office design?