Tag: Interior Design

Vesta Interior Design Launch Announcement

A new interior design firm specializing in luxury property has launched in London. Vesta Interior Design, a boutique design house, brings the efficiencies of high volume projects to the bespoke market both in the UK and internationally. The highly creative company provides exceptional interiors for private clients and property developers.

Vesta Interior Design was established by Chris Dale, who serves as Chief Executive Officer. The company has experienced exceptional growth and demand for its services, which is contributed to the company delivering dedicated customer service and unrivaled expertise to each of its clients.

Since its inception 12 months ago, the team has grown to 17 strong. The team is a collaboration of creative minds and property experts with over three decades of combined experience. They have completed over 400 projects across the capital for high profile developers as well as private residences. Completed projects include Fitzroy Gate, Legacy Wharf in Stratford, Royal Wharf, Discovery Tower, Holland Green, Chelsea Waterfront and more.

Vesta provides a seamless and innovative design service across luxury developments and private residences. The designers blend originality with functionality to create interiors that complement the lifestyle of each client.

“Having spent 10 years working for the largest investment furnishing provider to the industry, I watched it grow from a boutique operation to a large-scale corporation and from this experience I learnt the importance of the highest levels of customer service and quality, enabling me to create a design firm with the ethos of understanding what the client needs, and bringing the efficiencies of mass combined with the service of bespoke.” Chris Dale

“Whether a client is a large-scale developer seeking a new show home, a private client who wishes to renovate their family home or a luxury penthouse in need of the highest, most exclusive bespoke finishes, our design team will create an exclusive interior of timeless luxury and style. Vesta Interior Design is led by a team of people who are outstanding in their profession and together we have built a company which has filled a much-needed gap in the market.” Chris Dale

Vesta Interior Design works with private clients and property developers to create interiors which are beautiful, functional and practical. From grand family homes to city penthouses, and investment properties to private rentals, the Vesta team, has a solid understanding of the markets in which they work, and the needs of the clients.

The company also specializes in assisting with development launches and sales across Asia, showcasing their product and services to a range of clientele. The highly experienced team utilizes their local market knowledge – whether that’s in the UK or internationally – to deliver a project that is going to be attractive to the end user.

Chris personally selected the team at Vesta. All have vast experience working on projects across the world. They possess the ability to provide a seamless and innovative design service to both luxury developers and private clients.

The company’s international offering enables clients to complete their project via a team they can trust. This has proven to be a vital service for international clients.

With a hands-on interior design team offering in-depth knowledge of how to design a home to sell, many of the developers Vesta have worked with have achieved increased inquiries and sales. As a result, Vesta has gained recognition from key sales agents in the both South East Asia and the Middle East.

“We’re proud of our extensive knowledge of the London property market when representing clients in the UK and overseas. Our understanding of what people desire from a living space enables us to provide homes which we are confident will be functional for the end user.” Chris Dale

“Flexibility and creativity are the cornerstones of every project we undertake. From the initial consultation to the extensive property survey, rigorous attention is given to the finer details, and every aspect professionally managed.” Chris Dale

“Our team has an enviable depth of experience working on the best developments in the property market – and as such we guarantee exceptional results. We also take great pride in our track record of delivering projects efficiently, reliably and to strict deadlines. We can meet to highest expectations.” Chris Dale

Providing outstanding customer care is a key tenant of the Vesta Interior Design business. From the start to completion of a project, one of the directors of the design firm handles each customer, acting as their daily account handler and liaison person. In addition, the directors will travel to their client’s homes, offices or wherever they are in the world to provide them with updates on the interior design of their home.

Vesta Interior Design for Luxury Market

For further information about Vesta Interior Design, please contact- 0800 135 7888 or visit:

http://vesta-london.co.uk/

photography: Veronica Rodriguez

Press Announcement-ElevatePR

More to read:

Park Crescent Luxury Homes

Alexander McQueen Penthouse: Style Homage

Thank you so much for reading along with me today!

Have a great day!

July 2, 2018
Eclectic Luxury Design: Lori Morris
Interior designer Lori Morris is the Canadian-based reigning queen of glamorous and eclectic luxury design. Her creative work is a masterful balance of elegance and opulence. The designer doesn’t believe in rules and never limits herself to using traditional colors, textures, or any one style. To see her designs is a pure sensory delight. It’s not that she completely abandons traditional ideas. For this visionary designer, “traditional” is without boundaries, and beauty and luxury go hand in hand.

Backed by her “House of LMD” team of more than thirty creatives, Morris cleverly merges periods and effortlessly mixes styles in a way that has become a signature. She forms sophisticated layers, creating multifaceted expressions with an avant-garde edge that combines different surfaces, shades, and attitudes. With nearly thirty years of experience in the industry, the designer knows how to transform her clients’ lifestyle dreams into reality. Her primary objective is to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind, bespoke environments that reflect the client’s ideas.

The House of LMD strives to deliver a luxury experience with an emphasis on every detail. Morris identifies as a creative artist who uses furnishings and architecture to communicate a story, to reflect a vision, and to interpret feelings. Right in the beginning, the designer meets with her clients to establish the feel they want for their lifestyle. She asks what feeling they want to achieve when the house is done. From there she provides inspiration and focus. The style that results is inspired by what the client wants and will enjoy. Whether it is contemporary or classical, her approach to any design project is the same “do it in detail.”

Russell Hill Eclectic Luxury Design

Realizing the client’s vision, Morris delivers original designs that interpret and express that vision. It is never about color or a set style; it’s about creating a feeling and managing what you experience in each space. She very carefully selects your finishes, colors, furniture, fabrics, and design details. House of LMB custom designs everything: furniture, mill-work, and draperies. Her approach is to choose everything for you so that it perfectly reflects you and your interests. She approaches a home like an artist approaches a painting. She balances the proportions and infuses key details, and ultimately the space comes together like magic.

The two photos above demonstrate the designer’s eclectic luxury design. Morris layered Deco, Modern, and Traditional French elements in this Toronto apartment, balancing the black-and-white palette with unexpected touches for added interest. A black marble fireplace surround contrasts with the white wall. On either side of the fireplace, she created recessed seating with antique black mirroring, suede upholstered cushions, and vintage lighting. Brass accents tone down the sharp contrast.

In the kitchen, ornate French-inspired white armoires flank the sleek black cabinetry. At the breakfast bar, the stools, with brass frames and whimsical butterfly-designed backs tone down the seriousness of the design.

Castle For One

Next, we have a custom residence created for a client who wanted a home that inspired and empowered her, leading to the idea of a castle. Here in this view of the foyer, we see the reclaimed entrance doors sourced from a centuries-old chateau in France. The grand scale and aged, intricate detail create a feeling of significance and nobility the moment you enter. Stepping into a Lori Morris masterpiece can instantly transport you to another world of your choosing.
- Soaring double-height ceilings
- Carved and embellished archways
- Highlighted rich wood grain floors
- Massive floor to ceiling fireplace
- Seating niches backed with high arching mirrors
- Massive old-world-style chandelier
- Warm glow of golds
Every bespoke designed detail fulfills the home owner’s desire for a home that inspires and empowers her. It’s a majestic rendering of Baroque style for modern-day luxury living.

In the kitchen and dining areas, the designer used black with gold detailing to create intrigue. Michelangelo marble on the island and smooth white marble beyond create a powerful contrast that makes the vibrant red stove an even louder statement piece. As an artist, Morris sees her clients as her muses, and through her artistry, their vision comes to life. She helps them see what can be when they open themselves up to the possibility. They trust her to evoke the emotion they seek to achieve in their home.

The master bedroom is pure storybook romance. The designer used layers of material and texture to create a highly sensual experience. The domed ceiling, which crowns the room with dignity, and the grand bespoke headboard all elevate the inhabitant to a place of exalted splendor. The pale blue palette and the feather dome light provide a soft balance to temper the design. The House of LMD makes dreams come true.

English Manor

These final photos come from an English-manor-style house in Toronto. This home is a fusion of classical architecture with Morris’ modern edge resulting in a detail-rich eclectic luxury design. The above photo shows the entry hall. Marble and black onyx make up the art deco-inspired floor design. A pair of 1940s Murano-glass sconces hang over a pair of 1950s black lacquer consoles. Brass fretwork frames the doors and doorways throughout.

I’m just focusing on the details now. Here we have the family room’s double-height walnut fireplace with gilded decorative panels. A pair of seating niches with built-in shelves flank the fireplace with gilded trim and decorative ovals above them. The room indulges in richly executed bespoke designed details.

The dining room features layers of traditional design elements tailored in a finely tuned sophisticated contemporary tone. The French-style paneled walls include inset Christian Lacroix wall-covering. Ornate plaster-work decorates the ceilings from which a circa-1900 Louis XVI-style gilt bronze chandelier suspends. A contemporary cut-pile carpet covers the floor. Embroidered Damask upholstery and cream lacquer cover the dining chairs. Morris designed this room for entertaining a crowd comfortably. Custom seating arranges before the large windows framed in oversized Greek key. Dramatic details continually unveil themselves as every look reveals something new and imaginative.

This final room is awe-inspiring. Black suede with chocolate brown suede strap detailing cover the walls of the library/lounge. Michelangelo marble pairs with white marble to form the double-sided fireplace. A group of four armless chairs upholstered in striped velvet gathers around a gold-leafed organic cocktail table on one side. Mid-20th-century Italian lighting pendants hang from the fretwork-designed ceilings above. A large desk and velvet upholstered sofa occupy the opposite side.

Four Seasons Residences

I would feel like I was only showing a particular side of the designer’s eclectic luxury design work if I stopped here. So, I include a few more pics from her Four Seasons Residences project that show a little more of her huge style vocabulary though without going into detail which maybe we can do in another post.

What sets LMD’s eclectic luxury design apart is its distinctiveness. The designer goes beyond expectations and creates entire custom spaces for her clients. There are no rules, only imagination. Her style always delivers unique and luxurious spaces. She doesn’t follow trends. Her designs are based on the personality of the homeowner, so they are sure to stand the test of time.

Lori Morris’ Eclectic Luxury Design Conclusion

Luxury is different for everyone. To Lori Morris, it’s about being surrounded by beautiful things. It’s in a place that is extravagant and extremely comfortable, as well as sophisticated and sexy. I must say that this certainly makes my list too!

To see another fabulous post on a beautiful Canadian residence, check out:

Modern Classic Design: Golden Mile by Britto Charette.

Contemporary Penthouse Design: Studio Munge

Iconic Luxury Design: Ferris Rafauli

That concludes our design inspiration, my friend. Thank you so much for reading along with me today.

Interior Design: Lori Morris

Photography: Brandon Barre

One of the homes featured today, the English manor-style house, was honored by being named Robb Reports 2016 Ultimate Home. Congrats!!

What did you think of Eclectic Luxury Design: Lori Morris? I look forward to hearing from you in the comments.

Have a great day!
June 20, 2017
Timeless Interior Design: Boscolo

This completely renovated apartment is located within the premier historic Marlborough Mansions residential block in the heart of London’s West Hampstead. The first-floor apartment features timeless interior design by luxury design group Boscolo. The 2,000 square-foot residence combines modern sophistication with classic features and period details for gracious contemporary living.

Boscolo spatially reconfigured key areas of the apartment to create a more open and harmonious flow. The residence features high ceilings and beautiful original details including the crown and baseboard molding. The design team carefully maintained and highlighted those features in the new re-design to give it greater charm and character.

TIMELESS INTERIOR DESIGN INSPIRATION

A double-volume open-plan living, and dining room span the front width of the apartment. Both rooms feature huge windows which flood the interiors with natural light. Soft shades of beige and gray on the matte paneled walls and the area rugs beneath the seating arrangements envelope the rooms with a calm, neutral palette. White highlights the ceiling heights and architectural details. Inky shades of blue strike a contemporary note and create an air of sophistication. Dark woods keep the spaces grounded and defined. Velvet sofas are accented with silk and geometric design. Cut-velvet pillows provide a sensual, tactile experience while golden metallic accents imbue the space with a bit of luxury.

“Designed for the ambitious with lifestyle in mind, we take aspirational style and key elements from London’s distinctive identity.” Bailey

Button-tufted, upholstered dining chairs perfectly balance the sharp lines of the dining table and surrounding cabinets. Sculpted figures and organic forms add further movement and visual interest. The blue in the living room continues in the art and drapery tie-backs over here to assure visual continuity. Symmetry and balance are fundamental in the creation of this timeless interior design.

Boscolo selected, or as with the case here in the hall, specially commissioned large-scale artwork with an abstract edge and colors that complement the design scheme’s color palette.

As with all Boscolo projects, the kitchen is sleek and very contemporary. Beauty and function merge in this sophisticated kitchen with eat-in breakfast area. Dark cabinetry, designer appliances, and marble surfaces create an elegant space for both cooking and entertaining.

“We are passionate about using holistic design with a refined aesthetic.” Bailey

In this bedroom, Boscolo transformed a structurally limiting chimney breast into a principal design feature. The design team upholstered the projecting portion of the wall and centered the bed on it with a high reaching custom headboard. A coordinating bench rest at the foot of the bed. They clad the wall space on either side of the chimney projection with full-height bespoke beveled mirrors. Fabrics in different colors and textures make up the accents dressing the bed. A tailored Roman shade gives the windows a smooth silhouette while blocking the sun as desired.

A guest bedroom enjoys the extra space and loads of natural light provided by a huge bay window. Clean lines, luxury bed linens and a soothing color palette create an inviting five-star hotel experience for guests.

This bathroom’s sleek and edited design focuses purely on function and ease of use. The pared-back minimalist approach renders the space sublimely simple and tasteful.

The design team’s primary objective with this project was to create a quietly luxurious home complete with a timeless interior design. The final results were clearly a success. The project garnered the award-winning design group three additional accolades at the International Property Awards in 2016.

“To complement our design work, the studio carries out research through innovative, culturally-relevant and socially-responsive initiatives.” Bailey

That wraps up our design inspiration for today, dear friend.

To see more exciting and inspiring interiors, be sure to see:

Boscolo: Contemporary Luxury Design.

Tailored Interiors: Katharine Pooley

BOSCOLO’S TIMELESS INTERIOR DESIGN

Boscolo- now Bailey, is an established architecture and luxury interior design company based in London. Specializing in bespoke, high-end interiors, the design studio creates beautiful, award-winning living spaces for private and commercial clients, placing great importance and commitment to marrying skillful interior and exterior design, with a highly disciplined approach to development and project coordination. The company offers the complete design service, encompassing a full turnkey solution, tailored to meet all your needs.

Timeless Interior Design: Boscolo- Bailey London

Photography via Boscolo

Thank you so much for reading along with me. Be sure to let me know what you think of today’s design inspiration Timeless Interior Design: Boscolo, in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you.

Have a great day!

April 14, 2017
Modern Luxury Design: Greenwich Estate

For our design inspiration today, we have North Court, a stately 1906 Tudor-style mansion on 3.75 gated, park-like acres in prime mid-country Greenwich, Connecticut. The 15,500 square-foot brick and limestone manor’s interiors have been extensively renovated and redesigned for a modern luxury lifestyle. New York-based interior designer Mark Cunningham has rendered the Greenwich estate an idyllic family home, as well as a showplace for the owner’s impressive collection of contemporary art and significant mid-century modern luxury furnishings.

The two-and-a-half-year renovation included the sensitive preservation and restoration of the many of the home’s original details. The alterations made were done in the spirit of the original. The moldings and plaster work, like those here in the opening photos of the living room, were salvaged to maintain the home’s authenticity and charm. The living room includes custom-created cream upholstered sofas and a pair of Jacques Quinet armchairs. Several works of art display prominently including a spot painting by Damien Hirst and a portrait by Andy Warhol to name just a couple.

The foyer features two Andy Warhol portraits and one of his Brillo box sculptures. A work by Jean-Michel Basquiat displays above a 1970s gilded-iron sofa across from a work by John Baldessari. A 1950s chandelier by Jean Royere suspends above a center table mounted with a bronze apple sculpture by Claude Lalanne.

The family room’s built-in bookshelves and coffered ceilings create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The fireplace with the Marilyn Monroe print by Andy Warhol serves as the focal point of this sitting area formed by a pair of custom-created chaise lounges upholstered in a gray alpaca-linen tweed.

A more dramatic tone defines the adjoining dining and media room, with their walls covered in a deep blue paint by Fine Paints of Europe. In the dining room, a vintage table and chairs custom designed by Mark Cunningham gather on a custom carpet by the Mitchell Denburg Collection. A bronze chandelier by Achille Salvagni hangs above. A flower painting by Andy Warhol presides above the mantle, flanked by a pair of Jean Royere sconces.

A Restoration Hardware sectional sofa provides plenty of comfortable seating in the media room. There is also a 1950s Pierre Guariche armchair and a 1930s André Sornay stool.

The master bedroom and sitting area are a serene dream in pale creams and white. Rogers & Goffigon sheers drape the Mark Cunningham designed canopy bed. Lamps by Roberto Giulio Rida top the 1970s Karl Springer nightstands. A pair of vintage Lucite benches stands at the end of the bed. An early-20th-century club chair by Jules Leleu pairs with an Aurélien Gallet bronze side table. The photograph is by Elmgreen & Dragset.

The Greenwich Estate includes a total of seven bedrooms with en suite baths. This guest room tucks in under the eaves.

In the playroom created for the owner’s young son, blue paint from Farrow & Ball covers the walls while a custom carpet by Merida covers the floor. A wraparound banquet provides ample seating for grownups. A teak play table pairs with Verner Panton chairs from Vitra. Even in here, the art continues with a Marilyn portrait by Andy Warhol.

The greatest changes brought about with the renovation occurred down on the lowest level. What was once just a series of unutilized small rooms with thick walls and metal doors transformed to create an additional 3,000 square-feet to hold the extra amenities every modern luxury home must have. The wine cellar/tasting room includes limestone floor tiles in a herringbone pattern and century-old subway lighting. In addition, the lower space now holds a home theater, a yoga and massage room, and a sauna.

The Greenwich estate also includes several freestanding structures which feature more modern luxury including a two-bedroom guesthouse, an Equinox equipped gym and even an enchanting tea house. There is also a covered loggia with a fireplace for outdoor entertaining, an expansive terrace, lighted tennis courts, and a pool. The meticulously landscaped grounds include formal gardens, a courtyard with a fountain, and mature trees. Stately wrought iron gates give access beyond the stone wall that surrounds the property. The entire place looks and sounds utterly charming.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more modern luxury residences, be sure to see:

Manhattan Contemporary Luxury Apartment

Biscayne Bay Waterfront Mansion Redesign

Modern Luxury in a Historic Greenwich Estate

A little more about the interior designer Mark Cunningham. He spent over fifteen years as a Creative Executive at Ralph Lauren, before starting his design firm. Mark Cunningham Inc. works on a broad range of diverse projects on every scale, from residential interiors to hotel design as well as architectural consultation and retail concepts. Serving a variety of clients worldwide, the designer is renowned for his singular interior compositions. Each of his projects is unique, an individual expression of his clients’ lives and lifestyles. To learn more about this designer and to see more of his incredible work, be sure to check out his website.

Interior Design: Mark Cunningham

Photography: Richard Powers

Architectural Digest

Thank you so much for reading along with me today. Be sure to let me know what you think of today’s post in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you.

Have a great day.

April 7, 2017
Iconic Luxury Design: Ferris Rafauli
Ferris Rafauli is a leading Canadian architectural designer and master builder of exceptional luxury estate homes. His name is synonymous with iconic luxury design. He is responsible for conceiving, designing, and building through to a complete turn-key finish some of the most notable luxurious estates, commercial projects, and lifestyle creations in Canada.

Rafauli’s relentless pursuit of perfection, his passion for flawless design and precision construction, and his absolute commitment to luxury all go into everything he does. Obsessive attention to detail, executed at the highest level and very specific to each project, allows for the ultimate in unique iconic luxury design.

Today, for our design inspiration, we are taking a look at a super luxurious residence located in a Lake Ontario town just outside of Toronto. The multidisciplinary designer created every aspect of this sophisticated 25,000 square-foot timeless mansion, blending contemporary details with classic elements.

ICONIC LUXURY DESIGN: PUBLIC SPACES

Ferris Rafauli both designs and builds his grand estates with absolute precision to provide a 360° turnkey service. Doing so removes any risk of a disconnect between the design and the construction. For each of his projects, Rafauli designs the architecture, interior design, landscape plan, and each piece of beautiful furniture to fill the home. He creates each element to the highest specifications with particular attention given to each detail. The result is a seamless process and a pure vision from start to finish creating his iconic luxury design.

Rafauli allows the design of the architecture to flow seamlessly from the landscaping, exterior elevations, and on throughout the interiors.

Every aspect of his highly detailed iconic luxury design work is specified according to the client’s lifestyle. Everything from the architectural elevations and floor plans to the endless list of custom details;
- unique wall treatments and ceiling designs
- exotic flooring and fireplace designs
- lavish theaters
- indoor pools and home spas
- indoor basketball courts and bowling alleys
- wine cellars
- professional grade kitchens
- custom closet/dressing rooms
- specialized luxury garages for collectors
- sprawling master bedroom suites
Every detail allows for the ultimate in comfort and enjoyment. Nothing is too extravagant, and no request denied.

Ferris Rafauli has built some of the largest and most sophisticated homes in Canada, mastering the perfect blend of the art and the science of building. His clients benefit from his experience and can rest assured that their home’s design is the highest level of precision and excellence.

ICONIC LUXURY DESIGN: PRIVATE QUARTERS

Rafauli’s work is sometimes described as “big and bold”, “fast and fearless.” It has been said that it is precisely his innate desire to build “out loud” that has projected him into being one of the leading, and certainly one of the youngest architectural designers that Canada has seen in a little while. He possesses a passion that allows him to push past architectural boundaries and elevate design.

The luxury specialist is a born builder who rejects trends along with bland vanilla and cookie-cutter designs. His high standing in the luxury market is only natural. You can quickly see how talented and passionate he is about his work. It is easy for people to trust someone with such vision and confidence.

Ferris Rafauli is indeed known for the grand scale and scope of the homes he creates, but he is probably best known for his attention to detail. His portfolio of distinctive homes and super-luxury lifestyle creations made him a favorite among the elite. His firm takes on a careful amount of projects every year to make sure that each gets the disciplined and seamless design carried through from start to finish. The firm also has a waiting list

FERRIS RAFAULI: RECREATIONAL AND LEISURE FACILITIES

Rafauli prides himself on being recognized for his iconic luxury design. He was asked how he came to be the entertainer Drake’s preferred designer. His response noted that his firm handles what he refers to as a black card market. How does he define their taste? They prefer things low-key, but very extravagant. Sounds exciting!

That concludes our design inspiration, my friend.

For more fabulous luxurious Canadian homes, be sure to see:

Eclectic Luxury Design: Lori Morris

Modern Classic Design: Golden Mile

FERRIS RAFAULI’S ICONIC LUXURY DESIGN CONCLUSION

The clientele for his luxury homes is naturally those with the means to obtain them. As he has grown in experience, so has his demand. Over the years, the size of the houses has gradually increased. Ferris Rafauli has always designed the interior, exterior, and landscaping of his homes. In time, he added the custom furniture designing, and now his firm handles every detail. He sources the entire planet for the best materials and finishes. Those used are always as luxurious as the appearance of the home suggests.

Ferris Rafauli- Iconic Designer & Master Builder

Photography: Brandon Barre

Architectural Digest

Thank you so much for reading along with me today. Be sure to let me know what you think of Iconic Luxury Design: Ferris Rafauli in the comments. I look forward to hearing from you.

Have a great day!
December 21, 2016
Marquand: Refined Contemporary Design

This refined contemporary design private residence, located within the New York City landmark building Marquand on Manhattan’s prestigious Upper East Side, was completed by Miami-based interior designers Britto Charette. The Beaux-Arts Revival style building built in 1913 on Madison Avenue and 68th Street along Central Park was recently restored and now serves as a luxury condominium building offering gracious prewar space along with every amenity for contemporary living.

The 3,500 square foot apartment acts as a pied-a-terre for the owners, an energetic and entrepreneurial couple who have trusted Britto Charette with their multiple other homes as well. They wanted the design of this residence to be sensitive to its classic heritage but interpreted with a refined contemporary design to provide them with a peaceful refuge in the city. The designers took full advantage of the restored buildings wood paneled walls and architectural details, combining them with the couple’s favorite pieces, custom built-ins, and contemporary furnishings.

REFINED CONTEMPORARY DESIGN INSPIRATION

A monotone color palette accented with soft blue and copper achieved the owners desire for refined contemporary design. The expansive double volume living room arranges into two seating areas. Specially commissioned fabrics upholster the furnishings from Baker. The round coffee table is by Minotti from Domus Design Collection. The chandeliers above are from Ralph Lauren, while the rugs below are by Jan Kaph. The print is by Michael Dawkins. A sculptural bronze fireplace screen by John Lyle stands before the sculpted travertine marble fireplace surround.

In the library/study, Britto Charette custom created the wall of built-in shelves for the owners to display their photos and personal collectibles. The leather top desk is by Baker.

The look is crisp and clean in the dining room which is open to the sleek custom kitchen complete with Gaggenau appliances. The long, horizontal marble top table reflects the design of the LED chandelier by Jean Prezel suspended above it. A bench on one side and modern style chairs provide seating for the table, all from Domus Design Collection in New York. The mirror and art are from Michael Dawkins.

The home’s family room articulates the livable ease and serenity behind refined contemporary design. The room is visually calm and edited and still super functional making it the perfect escape from the busy city. A large leather sofa includes auto/electrical reclining functions. Britto Charette custom designed the sleek and sophisticated black credenza beneath the wall mounted television which elevates the room’s overall look. Britto Charette KINSA porcelain shines on the bar.

A central gallery hallway connects the public and private spaces. A series of contemporary Corbin Bronze Ballerinas gloriously punctuate the classic design of the white oak paneled walls, ornate ceilings, and Parquet de Versailles finished floors.

The master bedroom suite is a dream offering loads of neutral, understated elegance. The upholstered bed is by Giorgetti with nightstands by Baker. Framed photography by David Charette hangs above the bed. A chandelier by Visual Comfort hangs above, with a rug from John Kaph below. Marble and onyx complete the master bathroom.

The master suite also includes a gorgeous walk-in closet/dressing room custom finished with white and mirrored walls by Ornare. An island provides storage for jewelry and accessories while a high-top desk serves as an organizational area.

There is a total of four bedrooms, and four bathrooms, plus a powder room. The building includes white glove doormen and concierge services, as well as a fitness center among their amenities. Britto Charette’s refined contemporary design has made this pied-a-terre the peaceful escape the owners were seeking.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

To see more projects completed by Britto Charette be sure to check out:

Modern Classic Design: Golden Mile

Firethorn: Contemporary Mountain Retreat

Seaside Contemporary Residence: Regalia

BRITTO CHARETTE’S REFINED CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

Interior Design: Britto Charette

Photography: Alexia Fodere

All photos and info courtesy of Britto Charette.

***Exciting News From Britto Charette***

Take a look at these!

Miami designers Jay Britto and David Charette, of Britto Charette, have won Interior Design magazine’s 2016 Best of Year award for their revelation in glass called PUQUIOS. Britto Charette, along with more than 2000 entrants from 38 countries, vied for the coveted title awarded in 130 product and interior design project categories.

The designers captured shimmering light in PUQUIOS, their stunning new glass accessory inspired by Nasca wells—ancient rock-lined spirals that adorn Peru’s most mythic landscape. Scientists believe the funnel-shaped wells created pressure to move water. The designers chose glass as the perfect vehicle to evoke a feeling of “pressure” when viewing PUQUOIS. Pressure to move toward it, to touch, and to enjoy the piece from every angle. From a distance, mercury appears to float within the glass, but as your proximity to the vessel changes, so does the vessel’s exquisite coloration. The amorphous solid is available in ethereal hues of rose and phosphorescent yellow. 12”X5” Dimensions are approximate. Each handcrafted piece contains subtle differences.

We are so excited and happy for Britto Charette and congratulate them for their win of 2016 Best of Year award for PUQUOIS. They really are stunning. The designer’s artful and unique home accessories have garnered multiple awards through the years. Be sure to check out the website to see their other items as well.

We thank you so much for reading along with us and want you to know how very much we appreciate you all. Thank you!! Let me hear from you all in the comments! I want to know what you all think.

Have a great day!

December 9, 2016
Contemporary Lakeside Villa: Eric Kuster

This sophisticated contemporary lakeside villa is located within Domaine du Lac, on the banks of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. The high-style villa serves as a family residence created with sleek and comforting interiors by the Netherlands-based, international interior designer and luxury lifestyle purveyor Eric Kuster. The home is custom finished to the highest of standards, with over 10,000 square feet spread over three levels.

The owners of this villa are repeat clients of Eric Kuster, who designed another home for them nearby. The luxury lifestyle provided by the villa, with its five bedrooms, generous entertaining space, extensive leisure facilities and additional space for domestic help is superior even to a five-star hotel.

CONTEMPORARY LAKESIDE VILLA DESIGN

Large floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings merge the indoors with the outdoors, bathing the interiors with natural sunlight and providing unending views of the lake. The emphasis in the design of this contemporary lakeside villa was comfort combined with high energy. Every element considers the preferences of the owner with the finest details personalized to create an exact fit for the family. Kuster consistently exceeds the expectations of his clients. He succeeds by ensuring that individual elements are as impeccable as the whole. From every textile to each piece of furniture, and each artwork to every color combination, absolutely nothing is left to chance.

The designer’s signature laid-back luxurious design elements soften the architecture’s straight lines and acute angles.

“The best design is both serene and stimulating.” EK

To emphasize the villa’s beautiful location right on the waterfront, Eric Kuster used a lot of natural materials and a neutral palette throughout to help bring the outdoors in. The designer seamlessly combines and contrasts the earthy and glossy, raw, and refined, sober and sexy.

“Practical spaces can function effectively and look sensational- its not about style over substance, but style with substance.” EK

The lakeside villa features only the most elegant and sophisticated materials, highest quality fixtures and fittings, superior electronics, and intelligent technology. The ability to always find the perfect balance between classic and modern is a design cornerstone for Eric Kuster.

A ROOM WITH A VIEW WILL ALWAYS CALM THE SOUL

A palette of metallic grays and golds bring the luster of the lake indoors through the full height, slide away wall of windows.

Soft, luxurious textures applied to the walls, floors, and furniture enhance the comfort throughout the contemporary lakeside villa. Eric Kuster understands the importance of fabrics and materials. He layers various textiles that demand to be touched. Naturally, all are from his Metropolitan Luxury Collection which captures a contemporary style that expresses itself in glamor, luxury, and sensuality.

REFINED OPULENCE WHISPERS AND NEVER SHOUTS

The basement level holds the home’s entire leisure area. The spa, fitness center, pool, private cinema, and temperature controlled wine storage all share the space down here. Also, some of the biggest design statements are down on this level.

In the hammam, an onyx wall combines with rich gold and bronze mosaic tiles to create an exotic feel. The sauna combines an onyx wall with a mix of woods to create the sense of a Swiss mountain retreat.

Kuster’s guiding principles, as his work testifies, mean that he only works on that which he feels passionate.

“In the end, it’s all about quality and detail – and for my clients and me, only the superlative is acceptable.”

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

To see more fabulous homes completed by Eric Kuster, be sure to see my post:

Sexy Bachelor Pad Luxury Design

Contemporary Design: Eric Kuster

Eric Kuster Contemporary Lakeside Villa

For over a decade, Eric Kuster Interior Design Studio has proven to be highly successful. Eric Kuster develops and delivers luxurious turnkey interior design projects worldwide for high-profile clients. The studio has the skills, suppliers, and connections to execute these projects with speed and precision.

The designer’s extensive travels around the world inspire the Eric Kuster Metropolitan Luxury Collections. His craftsmanship, eye for beauty and creative vision combine to create dynamic pieces of furniture, luxury home accessories, and beautiful textiles. Each Metropolitan Luxury interior design collection conjures up the warm embrace of a high-end hotel room. They invite everyone who experiences them to indulge in the most pleasurable aspects of life.

Today’s Contemporary Lakeside Villa is featured in the designer’s book Eric Kuster Interior Design. In addition to exclusive residences from Curacao to London, his projects also include yachts and hotels, as well as commercial projects, ranging from legendary Amsterdam club Jimmy Woo to Barcelona’s Camp Nou Stadium. Indulge in this beautiful book to experience Kuster’s sumptuous environments for yourself and discover unique interior design inspiration.

Interior design: Eric Kuster

Photography: Paul Barbera

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I look forward to hearing from you in the comments. I hope enjoyed this inspiring Contemporary lakeside villa and its fabulous interiors.

Have a great day!

November 4, 2016
Livable Luxury: Helen Green Design

For our design inspiration today, we have a penthouse apartment in London’s fashionable Knightsbridge completed by Helen Green Design. The residence features an open concept suitable for family living and gracious entertaining. A neutral color palette and the layering of unique textural combinations create a home that is calm and quietly sophisticated. The bespoke designed furniture and lighting is scaled and proportioned exactly for the home. Multiple furniture pieces and custom finishes from the Helen Green Design Collection help to create the firm’s signature “livable luxury.”

The design firm was presented with a blank canvas and commissioned to create the home with a full interior architecture and finish out package including the layout design and build through to the furniture and final accessorizing.

In the opening photo, we see the home’s formal living room. On the walls, Rubelli’s Looks Like Grass wallcovering sets the tone for the neutral color palette while adding texture. The light oak flooring here, and throughout all the living areas, further establishes a neutral color base. A pair of sleek contrasting sofas in pale linen and darker velvet forms the backdrop for colorful decorative pillows. A pair of armchairs and a deep buttoned bench grouped around a modern style coffee table, all arranged on a contemporary area rug complete the conversational area.

A feature wall lined with bespoke cabinetry fronted with onyx stone, highlighted with antiqued mirror and brass trim imbues the space with a bit of livable luxury. A large painted canvas and Alexander Calder mobile provide additional color and visual drama, along with the unique brass LED chandelier suspended above.

LIVABLE LUXURY DESIGN INSPIRATION

Upon entering the penthouse, the designer details are immediate. Across the way from the elevator entrance, stands Helen Green Design Collection’s Limited Edition Sky Cabinet. The two-door cabinet is finished in a specialist hand-painted liquid bronze and mounted with Calacatta Oro polished stone. The Collection’s hand-painted, bronze trimmed Teardrop Mirror hangs above the Sky Cabinet. The inviting entrance has an eclectic, international vibe. Note the doors leading into the dining room, done with specialist starburst detailing.

Design Director Natalia Miyar is driving the evolution of the firm’s stylistic approach with an emphasis on design innovation and the creation of new unique textures and finishes. This growth allows for the artistic advancement of the company while staying true to their design ethos of livable luxury. We can see those innovations displayed throughout this residence.

In the formal dining room, Helen Green Design Gracie chairs upholstered in luxurious velvet and crisp linen complement the oval dining table with its dark gray finish. A trio of bronze and glass lighting pendants hang above the table which largely defines the mood of the room. The pair of sideboards in the Helen Green Design Betulla finish have doors with a specialist finish of charcoal gesso and mount on satin brass feet. Carefully curated accessories mimic those in the living area creating continuity through the room. The dining room is both elegant and functional.

In the powder room with its pocket door, an oversize mirror creates a greater sense of space. Polished silver gray travertine contrasts with the warmer tones of antique brass on the vanity and mirror, while nickel taps and a glass pendant add a freshness to the room.

The star feature in the open-plan family room and the kitchen is the panoramic view over the city. A series of windows and slide-away glass walls open this family room side fully to the outdoor wrap-around terrace. A low profile L-shaped sofa creates a space for casual comfort and relaxation. The colors mimic those of the city views to which the décor gives itself. Luminous Helen Green Design Collection wallpaper Isla backs the wall of bespoke cabinetry, which complements the space’s gray tones and provides a backdrop to allow the sculptural accessories to bring character to the room.

In the kitchen, Naica polished marble creates an elegant feature of the island and also creates the backsplash. The neutral bespoke cabinetry holds all of the built-in appliances and is complete with unique bronze handles. The design provides adequate and functional storage to keep surfaces free from clutter.

The kitchen includes a built-in banquette dining area for casual meals. Crisp linen covers the custom banquette. The table features a Helen Green Design Betulla finish, accented with starburst detailing. Wingback dining chairs complete the setting. The two vibrant artworks displayed above add a welcome shot of color.

A beautifully tailored selection of cream and taupe fabrics create a feeling of serenity in the master bedroom. A four-poster Canopy bed adds a bit of grandeur to the room. Elegant light linen draperies flank the upholstered bed which includes a pop-up television at the base. The wall of bespoke cabinetry includes a built-in firebox for coziness. Livable luxury is on full display. Onyx bedside lamps illuminate from the tops of the Helen Green Design Clancy nightstands. Starburst designs finish the doors. The bespoke details and finishes abound here and in the custom walk-in wardrobes.

Calacatta Oro marble selected by the architectural design team in Italy envelopes the master bathroom. A specialist Mason installed the stone to ensure the utmost quality. A flat-screen television before the freestanding soaking tub is a “livable luxury” that I have on my list. A separate door leads through to the enclosed toilet and large shower. The leather-upholstered vanity seats complement the nickel and brass of the lighting and mirror while adding depth overall.

A beautiful layering of pattern and color combine to create a guest bedroom that is rich in comfort and warmth. The dark petrol blue fabric wallcovering behind the upholstered headboard creates depth. A specialist wall covering adorns the bedside tables to add interest. The white parchment desk creates a fresh, crisp aesthetic while the antique bronze accents add richness.

An earthy palette forms the backdrop for this beautifully light and calm second guest bedroom. A floor to ceiling headboard featuring upholstered geometric patterning lends a softness to the bedroom. The bedding in all of the bedrooms is very attractive. I like the color and fabric combinations. Yes, I am a fan of plentiful pillows. More is more with decorative pillows.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more luxurious British Interior Design, be sure to see:

The Kelly Hoppen Look

Contemporary Classic Fusion: Louise Bradley

Tailored Interiors: Katherine Pooley

HELEN GREEN’S LIVABLE LUXURY

Helen Green Design is one of Britain’s leading interior design practices, synonymous with the creation of beautifully crafted interiors infused with livable luxury. The design studio has an international portfolio and has established a reputation for creating elegant, luxurious and comfortably livable spaces for private clients as well as prestigious developments. The studio encompasses interior design, interior architecture and their ranges of bespoke design furniture.

Well considered and well implemented interior architecture is integral in the creation of a seamless and bespoke design. The studio offers a cohesive vision, from an empty shell to bespoke finishing touches, as provided here with this project. Their highly experienced team of in-house interior architectural designers offer design services from spatial planning to specifications of all base build finishes and fittings, ironmongery, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Interior Design/Interior Architecture/Custom Furniture Design: Helen Green Design

Photography: Ray Main

All photos and info courtesy of Helen Green Design.

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed the textural layering, custom finishes, and bespoke designed details in this penthouse. Let me hear from you in the comments. What do you think of today’s livable luxury?

Have a great day!

October 22, 2016
Park Crescent Luxury Homes

The Park Crescent, London’s only Royal crescent, has been transformed to provide 20 two to four-bedroom ultra-prime luxury homes by Amazon Property. The Regency-era architecture, designed by renowned architect John Nash, combines with fresh contemporary interior design in this redevelopment of one of the city’s most sought-after addresses.

The development includes lateral, mezzanine and duplex apartments with 5-star hotel-style concierge. The homes have been created within four exclusive buildings in the east crescent. The Royal Crescent consists of a grand stretch of two facing crescent shaped cream stucco façade terraces (townhouse rows). The crescent overlooks eight acres of magnificent private resident’s gardens which front 410 acres of Regent’s Park.

The Park Crescent traces its Royal origins back to 1811 when Prince George became Prince Regent and Acting Head of State due to the illness of his father King George III. The Prince Regent wanted his own palace and commissioned John Nash to create a master plan for a Royal residence, surrounded by park land. It was to be complete with a circus of grand townhouses providing palatial luxury homes for his family and friends, located on the Crown Estate lands of Regent’s Park.

The final design was for a grand Royal crescent, built between 1812-1820, with cream stucco façade and tall sash windows, overlooking private gardens and the park. In 1820, the Prince Regent became King George IV and moved into Buckingham Palace, and no longer needed a palace of his own. The crescent otherwise continued as planned and immediately became London’s most sought after address. Through the years, it has served as home to exiled Royals, aristocrats, Ambassadors, business tycoons and high society.

The Park Crescent is once again one of London’s finest residential developments.

In 2013, Amazon Property purchased The Park Crescent and had the exciting and bold vision to carefully convert and meticulously restore the Royal crescent back into its original role as one of London’s most prestigious residential addresses. Due to the historically important, iconic and rare Nash architecture, the restoration of the Royal crescent has taken several years of careful planning and highly skilled construction and restoration work to materialize. It has required outstanding craftsmanship, fine attention to detail and materials of the finest quality, sourced from around the world.

Behind the building’s retained classical Nash facade, newly built luxury homes have been created which combine illustrious history with large lateral living spaces, generous ceiling heights, and state of the art specification and technology.

The Luxury Homes created within The Park Crescent each has its own character and distinctive features. Each home ranges from 1,429 to 4,127 square-feet in size with ceilings up to 12 feet high. Every residence has a spacious double or triple volume reception room overlooking the private gardens and Regent’s Park. Features include full height doors, sash windows, generous ceiling heights and solid Oak flooring laid in bespoke designs.

The individually designed kitchens feature Calacatta Michelangelo marble and granite worktops and panels. The cabinetry is composed of high gloss lacquered Oak with soft close cupboards and drawers. Each kitchen is equipped with a full range of integrated designer appliances.

The master bedroom suites all feature spacious interiors. All include walk-in dressing rooms with bespoke joinery and finishes and luxurious en-suite bathrooms.

The Master bathrooms created in these luxury homes all feature Calacatta Michelangelo and Maron stone flooring. The walls shine with lacquered Oak veneer paneling. Bespoke designed marble double basins pair with fitted mirrored cabinets. There are free standing sculptural baths for soaking, as well as spacious walk-in marble showers. Designer faucets and polished chrome heated towel rails complete the look.

Additional features include coffered ceilings with concealed lighting, under floor heating and comfort cooling, state-of-the-art security and Lutron home entertainment systems.

Residents will experience a world class concierge service and benefit from a 24-hour management team. Just some of the services that will be provided include a full-time doorman, car valet and servicing, restaurant and theater booking, shopping and delivery right to your door and dry cleaning and tailoring. Daily homeowner conveniences include access to a fleet of professional domestic staff providing services such as housekeeping, butler service, chauffeur, and maintenance staff on hand 24/7.

Residents will have direct views over and access to their own eight acres of magnificent gardens. Park Square and Park Crescent Gardens form two of the grandest gardens in central London. The sweeping lawns laid out between 1811 and 1827, echo the design of the gardens of Buckingham Palace. The extensive grounds include gravel pathways, loggias, plantings and summer tennis courts.

The first phase release of The Park Crescent successfully sold, and now this highly anticipated project is complete. Amazon Property has scheduled the main launch in October to coincide with the world-renowned Frieze London Art Exhibition. Guests will attend a VIP launch in a specially built glass pavilion in the gardens on the 6th of October.

A newly designed show residence completed by luxury design house 1508 London serves as the centerpiece of the launch. The launch will also showcase other unseen luxury homes completed by design houses Oliver Burns, DH Liberty and Taylor Howes. These residences will showcase artwork by artist including Marc Chagall, Joan Miro, Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Damien Hurst and Marc Quinn and form a ‘mini-Frieze’ showcase for the development. Visitors will have the opportunity to be the first to see the quality, unrivaled lateral living space and sweeping park views provided by these newly finished luxury homes.

Charles Gourgey, Director at Amazon Property said: “Luxury property is always defined by its provenance, uniqueness, and location. London has many streets, and a small collection of squares yet it has only one Royal crescent: The Park Crescent. This absolute rarity combined with the exacting quality of the residences sets this development clearly apart from any other and positions it as one of London’s finest residential developments.”

Many of these new luxury homes created in The Park Crescent have already sold. Those remaining are available for immediate occupation.

The development borders the beautiful Regents Park with all the delights it has to offer. This includes a boating lake, open-air theater, and music entertainment. Park Crescent East enjoys an unparalleled location with the Royal Park to the north and the shopping facilities of Regent Street and Oxford Street to the South. Positioned at the northern end of Portland Place, the crescent straddles Marylebone in the west and Fitzrovia to the east.

The Park Crescent Luxury Homes Listing

For further information contact sales agents Knight Frank or Aston Chase

The Park Crescent-London

Press Release and photography provided by Lawrie Cornish on behalf of Amazon Property.

Amazon Property is an award winning development group with a record of success spanning all sectors of the real estate market. The group mostly deals with the Prime Central London residential market. The company has a strong reputation for being specialists and influential leaders within their field.

For more London historic residences transformed for contemporary luxury living see:

Lancasters Interior Reinvention.

Bespoke Luxury Design: Chester Square

Grosvenor Crescent Mews House Reinvention

Thank you so much for reading along with me. Needless to say, my friend, I do love the London design scene. I hope you enjoyed today’s design inspiration of luxury homes created with Regency architecture and contemporary interiors. Let me hear from you all in the comments!

Have a great day!!

September 30, 2016
Villa del Lago: Tuscan Inspired Luxury Estate

Today for our design inspiration, we are taking a look at a grand Old World Tuscan inspired estate designed for modern day luxury living. Villa del Lago is set within a dramatic rural setting overlooking a beautiful lake in Southern California. The 23,000 square-foot residence is designed by Los Angeles-based architect Richard Landry in a style that is reminiscent of the rural villas on the hillsides of Tuscany.

Villa del Lago is situated on four acres on a private bluff with gated access points. The Tuscan inspired estate nestles against an Oak studded hillside overlooking Lake Sherwood in Thousand Oaks. A linear floor plan allows for views of either the lake or the Santa Monica Mountains from every room. The architect collaborated with Los Angeles-based interior designer Joan Behnke to create interiors that are warm, inviting and personally scaled within the large magnificent space. The home is finished to the highest of standards with most furnishings and finishes being either custom created or imported from Europe for authenticity.

VILLA DEL LAGO DESIGN INSPIRATION

A rustic stone façade combines with reclaimed wooden beams and a roof covered in Coppi tiles handmade over a century ago in Italy. These carefully sourced elements create a time earned patina of age and imbue the structure with old world charm. Italian cypress and olive trees placed along meandering ponds and waterfalls complete the setting.

The stone walls continue inside Villa del Lago here in the 28-foot-high Tuscan inspired entrance hall. Natural light floods the giant room through the massive skylight created above it, from which Behnke has suspended a large hand-forged chandelier by Gregorius Pineo. Several lighting sconces obtained from Paris during shopping trips for the house also line the walls. The entrance hall functions ideally for receiving guest when entertaining large crowds, a priority for the homeowners.

The entrance hall leads into the soaring double-height great room. The vast open chamber provides a series of intimate seating areas which you can see in the opening photo. The photo above focuses in on the sitting area gathered around the antique fireplace surround. The painting displayed on the wood paneled walls above the mantel is by Ned Evans. A custom rug from Martin Patrick Evan defines the conversation area, while a custom iron chandelier by Paul Ferrante illuminates the room from above.  Suzani by Donghia draperies frame the tall windows and doors which provide the room’s best feature, the beautiful views.

Here we have the spacious covered loggia and the family room. Landry designed the rooms so that they all flow one into the other. Instead of using real walls to separate and define each room, glass accordion doors serve in their place. These glass walls fold and stack to the side removing all barriers to open the rooms completely, creating one continuous flow of space throughout. A space that opens entirely to the outdoors. The forever-old reclaimed antique wood beams and ceiling planks came from Europe. Also, the 17th century Dalle de Bourgogne stone flooring came from an abandoned chateau in France.

The formal dining room features a barrel vaulted ceiling created with bricks recovered from historic buildings on Chicago’s South Side. The wooden columns were handmade by local artisans in Southern California. On the side of the dining room are a wine room and a Tequila bar. Every room in Villa del Lago has a story.

Part of Behnke’s design process for her very wealthy clients is not to just fill their homes with the finest things from around the world. She insists on taking them with her on the shopping excursions so that they can personally experience the process and have a first-hand awareness of each item’s provenance. Along the way, the clients get to create beautiful memories and form emotional experiences to attach to each piece. Also, the trips provide hours of conversation with which to entertain guests.

The family room flows into the large kitchen which includes a La Cornue range. The homeowner’s wife said that she just really wanted one, even though she doesn’t cook much. Here in the kitchen, the details that are most impressive are those that you don’t notice right away; the surface of the drawers, the edges of the counters and the hidden conveniences.

The home theater is located right on the main floor near the master bedroom suite per the homeowner’s request. Landry created a sense of motion with the distinctive design of the backlit onyx-and-walnut ceiling. The walls are upholstered in a fabric by Larsen with the draperies in Clarence House. The sconces are from Porta Romana.

The master bedroom’s placement ensures prime views of the lake, and it opens onto the rear terrace. Bergamo draperies frame the windows and canopy bed. All the window treatments throughout are of bespoke design by Behnke. Hand embroidered bedding dresses the bed. A custom leather cabinet with nail-head trim at the foot of the bed holds a pop-up television. The antique crystal chandelier came from Paris, obtained on one of the shopping trips. On either side of the bed, individual floor sensors trigger low-level lighting that leads to the bathroom

The master bathroom features bespoke designed cabinetry by Behnke. A free-standing Devon & Devon bathtub is positioned so that the views can be enjoyed while soaking. The chandeliers and sconces are from Paul Ferrante.

In addition to the guest rooms in the main house, there is also a 2,000 square-foot guest house with additional accommodations.

Landry designed the stone-walled stairwell which spans all three floors, completing it with a domed ceiling and a custom hammered-wrought-iron banister. A spiral chandelier by Paul Ferrante suspends down from the top while sconces by Gregorius Pineo line the walls along the way.

The homeowner is a car enthusiast and an avid collector. For his new home, he wanted a proper place to hold and display his sizable collection. A 7,500 square foot subterranean garage in the basement level of the home serves this purpose well. Bricks recovered from historic buildings and reset in place by hand line the ceiling and columns. Car-friendly tile from Ann Sacks covers the floors. Behnke brought in chandeliers and sconces by Paul Ferrante. The garage opens through a pair of barn-style doors onto the driveway.

Here we have the dramatic view of the rear facade. The Tuscan inspired architectural details continue in the stone tower with the ocular window, design elements found in traditional Tuscan villages. Landry also spanned a series of Italian inspired arches from the loggia down to the guest house. An expansive rear terrace stretches nearly the full width of the house providing plenty of outdoor living space. The design of the infinity edge pool reflects the shape of the ocular window. The terrace leads out to the open lawns created as part of the landscape design. The outdoor furnishings are from Janus et Cie.

Here we can see another outdoor living space created around the fire pit before the guesthouse.

Here we have a beautiful view of the house from the lake. Villa del Lago isn’t just charming to behold. It is also conscientious. The Tuscan inspired estate incorporates several environmentally friendly elements. Solar panels provide energy for the home. An on-site water well, recirculated water systems, gray water reclamation, LED lighting fixtures throughout, and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems are just some of the many efforts in place here. The stone used for the facade was all locally cut, and much of the design includes reclaimed elements.

The result is a home that is comfortable to live in and easy to maintain. One that blends beautifully with its surroundings and promises to age well. Villa del Lago is ultimately timeless in its blending of old with the cutting-edge new.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

Be sure to check out my other articles on collaborations between the architect Richard Landry and interior designer Joan Behnke:

Beverly Park Chateau

Beverly Hills Deco Villa: Joan Behnke

VILLA DEL LAGO LUXURY DESIGN

Architecture: Landry Design Group

Interior Design: Joan Behnke and Associates

Photography: Erhard Pfeiffer

Robb Report’s Ultimate Home of the Year Award winner!

Thank you so much for reading along with me today. I hope you enjoyed this lovely Tuscan inspired estate. What do you think of Villa del Lago? I look forward to hearing from you in the comments.

Have a great day!

August 25, 2016
Venetian Waterfront Residence: Cullman & Kravis

This classic 1930s Mediterranean-style waterfront residence near Palm Beach, Florida has undergone an extensive renovation and expansion from a summer vacation retreat to a comforting full-time family home. The transformation was completed by leading interior design firm, New York-based Cullman & Kravis.

To the designer’s delight, the existing vacation house already held an impressive collection of the owner’s Italianate furniture and fine art. These treasured pieces would serve as the heart of the home’s newly designed modern traditional interiors.

Italian interior architectural details and materials combine with a careful mix of the existing Italianate furniture, art, antiques, and new custom pieces the designers brought in to create a warm Venetian ambiance. Newly designed floor-to-ceiling windows open up the principal rooms. Nearly every room now provides access to the outdoors. Gorgeous shades of sunflower yellow, vermilion red, grass green and ocean blue bring in the beauty of the outdoors.

PALM BEACH WATERFRONT RESIDENCE

In the living room, the designer raised the to give the slightly narrow space a more open feel. A pair of custom giltwood chandeliers define the two separate seating areas. A custom hand-woven carpet in a Polonaise design with large scroll pattern and tonal color palette gives the space a wider effect. Delightful Christopher Norman plaid silk taffeta draperies frame the expansive windows and beautiful ocean views. Custom sofas and Jansen armchairs were bespoke created and upholstered by Cullman & Kravis. A large Venetian mirror hangs over the fireplace while a pair of antique wrought-iron sconces flanks an 18th-century painting of Venice’s Grand Canal. An heirloom Italian pietra dura coffee table given a new lighter base groups with a pair of 1940s French side tables with Verde marble tops.

The owners early 19th-century French tric-trac table – a game table made of fruitwood with a light finish that reverses to a leather surface – shines beautifully here in the center of the living room. Gold bullion trims the skirts of the sofas to create a formal classic tailored touch.

The classic tones continue here in the dining room of the Venetian-style waterfront residence. The designer had the walls hand-painted with a multicolored damask stencil overlaid with gold and copper which creates shimmer and depth. Richly embroidered silk draperies formally dress the windows. The Coquina stone floors keep the room from becoming too formal.

In the library, vermilion Venetian stucco walls support the groin-vaulted, stenciled ceiling. A vintage tole-painted light fixture punctuates the room. Tailored gold silk draperies with blue cuffs and inset red flange hang before the blue Roman shades on the windows. A bright paisley sofa with custom coordinating pillows group with a powder blue velvet chair and ottoman to perfectly complete the room in harmonious unity.

A less formal, coastal inspired family and breakfast area share a light-filled space that gives way to the kitchen. The ocean view, the room’s greatest asset, reflects in the décor. A custom plaid wool rug in aquamarine and apple green covers the floors and mirrors the color palette outside. Comfortable traditional furnishings reflecting the same hues create the sitting area. A whitewashed oak dining table surrounded by custom rattan chairs with sunburst back designs stand beneath a customized chandelier.

This Veneto-style garden well made of Vicenza stone serves as the focal point of view from the pool loggia.

The master bedroom suite evokes the sky and sea with its watery blue tones. Embroidered silk draperies convey a light and airy feeling of transparency. Venetian stucco walls, Murano glass, and a gilt-wood chandelier are in keeping with the Italianate feel. The style in all the bedrooms reflects the ocean and tropical greenery outside while creating a calm and welcoming mood inside this transformed waterfront residence.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more of the perfectly harmonious interiors created by Cullman & Kravis, be sure to see:

Fifth Avenue Classical Design

Georgian Modern Traditional Elegance

Transitional Design Update: Park Avenue

Contemporary Traditional Design: Southern Mansion

CULLMAN & KRAVIS WATERFRONT RESIDENCE

Cullman & Kravis provides the highest quality of design excellence and personal service. The award-winning firm, headed up by Ellie Cullman, collaborates closely with their clients to realize their ideas and needs. Ellie Cullman collaborated with architect Jeffery Smith, of Smith Architectural Group in Palm Beach to complete this residence, her third for these owners.

Ellie Cullman is a distinguished interior designer and founding partner at Cullman & Kravis. The designer has been honored with many of the industry’s highest accolades. She has been on the Architectural Digest AD100 list since 2000. This year she was bestowed with the Albert Hadley Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today’s waterfront residence is featured in the designer’s beautiful book The Detailed Interior-Decorating Up Close with Cullman & Kravis. This book showcases a wide range of projects, from classic New York City pied-à-terres and penthouses to vast Connecticut estates, from airy Floridian mansions to luxurious ski retreats. Each project is illustrated with lavish full-color images, illuminating the effect of the room as a whole as well as providing close-up shots of precisely detailed spaces. The photography is coupled with informative text explaining how each of the room’s elements complement each other, breaking down how Ellie Cullman achieves these distinct interiors step by step. It is a must read!!

Interior Design: Cullman & Kravis

photography: Eric Piasecki

Thank you so much for reading along with me today. I hope you enjoyed this beautiful Florida waterfront residence. What do you think of the wonderful layering of details, with every room so effortlessly graceful and balanced? I look forward to hearing from you in the comments.

Have a great day!

August 16, 2016
Contemporary Classic Design: Sophie Paterson

Today we are taking a look at the Contemporary Classic designs of the London-based interior design director Sophie Paterson. Sophie established her interiors company, Sophie Paterson Interiors, in 2008 at the age of 23 with no formal training but with plenty of good taste to spare. She got her start in the design business when she had a developer over at her home to look at some plans she was considering. He liked her decorating style so much that he asked her to do some work for him on his latest project. She ultimately was given full design direction without any budget constraints and allowed to design the interiors of a large townhouse renovation with a basement extension. Through working hands-on with the developer and his team of engineers, carpenters, and builders she was launched.

Since that time, Sophie has developed her company into one of the UK’s most successful interior design studios working on high-end projects in both the commercial and residential sectors across Britain and Europe. She even published a book, Style & Glamour, which is filled with images from her projects that not only acts as a portfolio but also provides information and inspiration on how to create her signature Contemporary Classic interiors. Together with her experienced team of talented design professionals, Sophie provides a personalized, relaxed design service. She plans each project herself and gives it over to her design team who manage it. Her style is both timeless and contemporary, with an expert use of color and texture and an innovative eye for design and approachable luxury.

For our design inspiration today, we are taking a look at a spacious five-story classic townhouse redesigned for contemporary life.

CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC DESIGN INSPIRATION

Sophie spent two years immersed in the transformation of this five-story Chelsea townhouse that once belonged to David Bowie in the 1970s. She completely reconfigured the 1860s residence working closely with the owners to create a unique and glamorous home that reflects their very particular taste.

A mix of antiques and contemporary furnishings fill the first-floor formal living room. The owners wanted a design that appeared as though it had been collected over time and not necessarily by a professional designer. The light-filled room features warm colors, rich textures, and luxe finishes. Silk lines the walls to add a bit of luxury. Geometric shapes emphasize the lines of the period architecture. The mirrored, antique brass and ebony cabinets on either side of the fireplace are from Birgit Israel. The leather furnishings are from Poltrono Frau.

On the ground level, guests enter the home here in the grand entrance hall with its high ceilings and period detailing. The generous space allowed for the modern pendant chandeliers from Jamb. The designer sourced the antique mirror from a favored local antique shop which she placed above a newer Macassar ebony console. This is a perfect example of combining the best of classic design with elements of contemporary design for a space ideally suited for today’s lifestyles. That is the key to creating Contemporary Classic designs. The hall leads into the very glamorous kitchen and dining room which spans the entire floor.

The kitchen is of complete bespoke design by Sophie Paterson Interiors. The Macassar ebony, Arabescato marble, and smoked mirror kitchen take inspiration from the Tom Ford makeup boutique in Selfridges. Gaggenau appliances blend harmoniously with the bespoke cabinetry. Low-level lighting complements the sophisticated design. An eat-in bar separates the kitchen and dining area. The dining area includes a blue faux shagreen feature wall. The dining table came with the house, left by the previous owners. Both the new owners and the designer loved it and decided to keep it. Beyond the kitchen, a small sitting area with French doors opens onto a paved garden with raised flower beds.

On the lower basement level, there is a guest bedroom with bath, a utility room, and a cozy home cinema.

The master bedroom suite is on the next level. The look is very Ralph Lauren with a Ralph Lauren Home oversized four-poster bed serving as the focal point. The room includes a Poltrona Frau leather armchair and a Macassar ebony dressing table, all gathered on an antique rug. Taupe leather upholstered wardrobe doors with bronze handles create another layer of texture and luxury. The mood in the bedroom continues into the bath with Zoffany damask-covered walls and bronze Heathfield lamps.

Guest bedrooms make up the remaining top floors. The soft neutral colors and textures continue. Here we see more bedding from Ralph Lauren Home paired with zebra print Andrew Martin cushions. The bedside tables and lamps are from Porta Romana. At the foot is one of several antique collectible Louis Vuitton travel trunks placed throughout the home. The trunks are an ideal touch to imbue a contemporary room with classic style and elegance.

The house completes with a rooftop terrace with Alexander Rose furnishings. The outdoor space provides a quiet get-away along with views across London.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more Contemporary Classic design, be sure to see:

Contemporary Classic Design: Laura Hammett

Contemporary Classic Fusion: Louise Bradley

Sophie Paterson’s Contemporary Classic Design

It is no wonder Sophie Paterson Interiors has made its way to the top. She has a natural eye. She is an example to support the idea that one either knows design or they don’t. Style, taste and a sense of what is correct are mostly innate gifts that one learns to channel.

Interior Design: Sophie Paterson Interiors

Photography: Ray Main

Thank you so much for reading along with me. What do you think of this contemporary classic design? I look forward to hearing from you in the comments!

Have a great day!

August 5, 2016
Chandeliers: Traditional Glamour

For our design inspiration today, we are taking a look at glamorous traditional style chandeliers. Nothing else can so effectively create an air of specialness within a room like the right chandelier. Since its conception several centuries ago, the chandelier has been associated with royalty, luxury, and grandeur. Modern times and flat designs have dulled the sparkle on some, but we’re not focusing on those here today. I’ve put together a collection of sparkling lights, both new and very antique, from quite large to petite. All of them give any room grand appeal.

No longer are these statement-making works of art resigned to ballrooms and formal living and dining rooms. They are for every room, including the kitchen and even your closet. There is an endless selection of styles, colors, and quality to choose from, and I am not trying to show everything here. This is a collection of some of my personal preferences, which except for a few exclusions, tend to stay clear. This collection will inspire you. If you happen to decide to invest in one of these, then I am happy that I facilitated your gift of luxury to yourself. I’ve tried to select many that are available on the market as of when I post this. Let’s take a look!

CHANDELIER DESIGN INSPIRATION

First off, we have Baccarat’s Solstice 36-light chandelier. The Solstice collection builds on Baccarat’s iconic lighting design crafted in the classical tradition. This line incorporates downward-curving branches. The innovative silhouette has a vaguely plant-like shape, evocative of a weeping willow. The bell-caps at the ends of the branches imbue a graceful weightlessness. Each chandelier is composed of hollow branches in blown cabled crystal and curved scrolls, resplendently showcasing Baccarat’s masterful craftsmanship. The decoration is all cut in a diamond-point design. Among the spiked prisms, Baccarat signature’s red octagonal crystal hangs discreetly. This one is perfect for any grand space and is 74” H and 50” W.

Next, we have tradition with a bit of attitude in Baccarat’s Zenith Noir 24. The traditional Zenith collection was modernized by Philippe Starck who used smoky, black crystal to reinterpret the classic style. Maintaining the chandelier’s original structure and ornamentation, Starck added black shades lined with aluminum reflectors to magnify the effect of light on the black crystal. Baccarat’s signature red octagonal crystal links to a spiked prism, specially designed by Stark. The ‘anti-chandelier’ par excellence. Black crystal is the exact antithesis of the translucence of clear crystal. Black imbues this classic shape with great power, revealing its sculptural dimension in a whole new way. The chandelier is a truly decorative object, a dazzling sculpture. Handcrafted full-lead onyx crystal made in France. It measures 43” H and 42” W for the “short” model.

Be sure to see my post: Glamorous Luxury Design: Elicyon to see this entire exquisite luxury residence in London.

Baccarat Hotel Residences Petite Salon, New York.

Baccarat’s Zenith Comete 24 chandelier unites Baccarat’s storied past with the present-day thrill of technology. The Zenith Comete is a high-tech version of the legendary Zenith model originally designed during the 19th century in a resplendent, shimmering form. The new 24-light Comete chandelier, like the earlier incarnation, drapes with exquisite geometrically cut clear crystal. Its source of luminosity is updated with state-of-the-art LED lighting. The glow of the chandelier is poetically radiant and vibrantly bright. From traditional incandescence to contemporary technologically advanced lighting power, the magnetism of this galaxy of light remains mesmerizing and stellar. It measures 55” H and 42” W.

Morpheus London

Next, we have another grand scale design in the Waterford Ardmore 24-Arm Chandelier with Crystal Shades. This multi-tiered chandelier features Waterford’s Ardmore crystal pattern. It has an incredible amount of extensively cut and polished crystal cups, spheres, bowls, strands, shades, drops and buttons, which create a brilliant diffusion of light and color. I love the crystal shades. This is a classic statement piece for sure. It measures 69″ H and 47″ W.

Steve Leung Designers Ltd

The beautiful multi-tiered Waterford Crystal Cranmore 18-Arm Chandelier features Waterford’s Cranmore crystal pattern. Impressive and elegant, this model is smaller and more simple than the previous one but no less stately. It measures 49″ H and 31″ W.

Chiara Provasi

So, the ones we looked at so far are new and obtainable from authorized Baccarat and Waterford dealers. If you like the glamour of old-world designs, you can’t go wrong with an antique chandelier. They are sometimes so extraordinary and exquisite in detail. Just knowing the amount of time and skill that went into each piece makes them all the more special. I love the shimmer and sparkle of crystal and gold. My natural inclinations are towards 18th and 19th-century French pieces. No one knew how to put on a show like the French Monarchs and their circle of that time who defined the fashions and set the standards for royal grandeur across Europe.

Be sure to see my post: French Chateau in Texas, to see this beautiful estate by Houston-based interior designer Kara Childress.

Here we have a very large Louis XV-style gilt-bronze and Baccarat chandelier from Paris, circa 1870-1880. Most recently it resided in the grand foyer of the “Spelling Manor” in Los Angeles. It is described as a “Very Fine and Palatial French 19th Century Louis XV Style Figural Gilt-Bronze and Baccarat Crystal Forty-Eight Light Chandelier. The finely chased gilt-bronze frame with scrolls, flower and foliage designs and with mask figures of Putti, surmounted with cut-glass prisms, pendants, and obelisks interlaced with diamond-shaped crystal swags. The upper wax-holders stamped Baccarat.” Fabulous! It measures 83” H and 60” W available through Jans & Company Inc. in Los Angeles. 1st dibs.

A Louis XVI-style gilt bronze and cut-glass thirty-two-light chandelier by La Compagnie des Cristalleries De Baccarat, circa 1890. This fine chandelier has a gilt bronze frame with a tiered stem and circular band issuing scrolling candle arms with glass drip trays. The finest cut-crystal drop-pendants and beads hang all over and the body, terminating in a ball finial. Stamped ‘Baccarat’ on the thread of the finial. The design for this fine chandelier draws comparison to the chandelier listed as ‘Serie E.452’ illustrated in Baccarat’s ‘Tarif des Articles d’Eclairage’, published at the beginning of the twentieth century. It measures approximately 49″H and 37″ W available from Adrian Alan Fine Art & Antiques in London. 1st dibs.

Next, we have a superb late 19th-century antique “French Louis XVI-style, gilt bronze, and cut crystal, triple tier, multi-arm chandelier of exquisite craftsmanship embellished with cut crystal chains and prisms.” It measures approximately 33” H and 34.5” W available from D&D Antiques Gallery in New York. 1st dibs.

You don’t have to have loads of crystals to achieve glamour. The beauty is in the details of this “antique French 19th century, very finely chased gilt bronze (ormolu), thirty-five-light figural gasolier with allegorical figures of ebonized putti’s playing musical instruments. All original mercury gilt in excellent condition.” (Electrified), Paris, circa 1870. It measures 65” H and 52” W available from Jans & Company Inc. 1st dibs.

A “magnificent and palatial late 19th -early 20th-century gilt bronze, fifteen-light chandelier. After the famous 18th century model by Jacques Caffiéri. This wonderful chandelier centers on a baluster shaped open stem surmounted by scrolling foliage above three Putto, holding a bird, a bow, and arrow and blowing a horn. Below are three further Putto, holding a turret and flower wreath, flanked on all sides by scrolling foliage. Nine foliate branches each hold a conforming nozzle. The pierced base houses three doves. Fifteen-tiered perimeter lights complete this beauty. The original hangs in Château d’Anet, a former French royal residence that now serves as the Biblotèque Mazarine. It measures 52” H and 42” W and available from Charles Cheriff Galleries in New York. 1st dibs.

Traditional Style Glamourous Chandeliers

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend. I hope you enjoyed the traditional glamour of these fine chandeliers.

What do you think? Are you inspired to add some sparkle to your rooms?

Baccarat–

Waterford–

1st dibs Chandeliers–

Thank you so much for reading along with me today. Let me hear from you in the comments.

Have a wonderful day!

July 9, 2016
French Design: Paris Ritz Reopens

The legendary Paris Ritz Hotel has finally reopened its doors after an extensive, 4-year roof to basement renovation. The glorious hotel is one of the most celebrated and storied in the world and has hosted the world’s most elite travelers for over a century. Located at the heart of Paris’ exclusive Place Vendome, it has long been synonymous with French design and opulent excess, and has now been restored to its former glory, and better. Come, let’s take a look at our fine design inspiration for today.

Grand Staircase

Paris Ritz Hotel

The hotel originally opened in 1898 and is housed in a structure dating back to 1705 designed to honor Louis XIV. It has been discretely modernized to bring it into the 21st century, while maintaining its signature old-world, elegant 18th century French design for which it is so loved. The renovations included the necessary; new plumbing, silent air conditioning and heating, internet, automation and the like, all integrated as seamlessly as possible. Aesthetically speaking, the Ritz from before is still the Ritz today, but with a lighter and fresher feel. Some improvements and additions have been figured in so that you can now get the same conveniences found in the newer hotels but all with respect to the hotels regal grace and splendor.

Grand Hall

Initially in 2012, the hotel closed for a two-year renovation, but repeated delays ensued and two became four. Guests demanded that their beloved Ritz not be destroyed by the renovation. The last thing anyone wanted was for this treasure to be ruined with a contemporary redesign. The massive project was led by the New York based French Architect Thierry Despont who was tasked with making sure the complete renovation was barely noticeable. He assembled 800 stonemasons, woodcarvers, gilders, and upholsterers dedicated to recreating the hotel as it was in the beginning while integrating the improvements in a way that stylistically is in keeping with the original.

L’espadon

Bar Vendome

The two existing restaurants have been maintained and enhanced. The French restaurant L’Espadon and the brasserie-style Bar Vendome offer dining in style. Whatever your wishes or time of day, a table awaits inside or in the garden. The renovations gave both spaces retractable roofs over their terraces to make them usable all year.

Salon Proust

The Salon Proust was created in honor of one of the hotel’s famous fixtures back in the day, French novelist Marcel Proust. It is a splendid space featuring Oak paneled walls and French design where guests can take their afternoon tea. One of the new “themed suites” created was also named after him.

Bar Hemingway

Ritz Bar

The legendary Bar Hemingway, named after the author Ernest Hemingway in 1994, has been maintained as well. The author made this one of his favorite drinking spots in his day. Here you can get custom created drinks invented by the head barman who was also here before the renovation.

The Ritz also has two additional bars, The Bar Vendome and The Ritz Bar.

Grand Salon

The hotel has multiple reception rooms available for your special occasions ranging in size with all featuring its signature French design. Spaces range from intimate to grand, and are equipped with leading edge technology. Haute Cuisine created by Executive Chef Nicolas Sale, is combined with the discreet, attentive, and professional service of the well-trained staff.

Other additions include the world’s first Chanel spa, Chanel au Ritz Paris, which is part of the two-story health club. There is also an underground ballroom that can accommodate 400 guests as well as a shopping passage linking the two Ritz’s buildings, among other things.

Prestige Suites

Suite Vendome

Suite Coco Chanel

Suite F Scott Fitzgerald

Suite Cesar Ritz

A favorite destination for those with the means from the beginning, the hotel aimed to recreate the signature décors of celebrated guests from the past for its Prestige Suites. Marcel Proust, Frédéric Chopin, Coco Chanel and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor all chose furnishings that reflected their personality and the hotel has stayed true to the spirit of those styles. These luxury themed suites all feature a unique décor of absolute sophistication. In addition, each prestige suite also provides sweeping views over the place Vendôme.

Suites

Executive Suite

The Ritz suites are restored to their legendary splendor. They have re-emerged from their neoclassical settings enlarged and technologically equipped. These suites are all bathed in natural light, with some offering shaded private terraces overlooking the hotel’s magnificent French garden.

All of the rooms are as glorious as ever, offering an incomparable ambiance and the most generous spaces in the entire city. Every room features fine furnishings and delicate pastel hues composing an intimate French design where ultimate luxury resides in each and every detail, accompanied by antique objects and fine works of art.

The Paris Ritz is back and invites you to come experience the city in the luxury that only they can provide in their wonderful old-world style, alongside all of the conveniences and comforts available today. With their renovated interiors, intimate settings, and a staff of over 600 to serve you, the hotel is ready to exceed your expectations.

Paris Ritz French Design

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friends! I can clearly remember when the hotel closed. I was reading a fashion magazine that stated it would be the last editorial shoot before closing. The photos were so beautiful and I so hoped that they would not replace the classic French design. Being a huge Francophile and lover of all things Louis, I’ve been anxiously awaiting. Thankfully, they have maintained the original style and charm that everyone has always loved them for. I had to share this with you guys for the photos are indeed inspiring.

To see more: www.ritzparis.com

Thank you all so much for reading along with us. Let me hear from you all in the comments! What do you all think of the Paris Ritz?

Have a great day my friends!!

July 2, 2016
Contemporary Luxury Design: Hyde Park

The exquisite tailoring of this chic London apartment is a testimony to contemporary luxury design in the historic city. The residence is set within a grand, iconic mansion block in Bayswater with beautiful views over Hyde Park. Chelsea-based luxury interior design studio Elicyon has transformed this four-bedroom residence into an exceptional home finished to superlative standards.

The design studio restored many of the home’s original architectural features while completing it with a polished contemporary luxury design for elegant modern living. Renowned for their turnkey lifestyle design, Elicyon expertly managed the entire process from conception through to completion. The results are quite remarkable. Come see for yourself!

BAYWATERS MANSION CONTEMPORARY LUXURY

The living room features a sophisticated neutral color palette of creams and grays, highlighted with a layering of metallic hues. Two gray sofas and a pair of quilted armchairs anchor the furniture arrangement around a two-stepped coffee table on a graphically carved silk rug, all from the iconic luxury brand Fendi Casa. The entire home has a sophisticated air with contemporary glamorous interiors.

A large bespoke artwork by the art studio Based Upon, acts as the room’s focal point with its prominent position located above the center sofa. On either side of the bronze-and-brass work is a custom display cabinet. The home’s design notes every detail. Almond cream leather with brass trim fronts the cabinets and drawers beneath the display shelves complete with lacquered inner sides. A structured tiered chandelier echoes the design of the room perfectly. Silk draperies and luxurious cushions in an array of shimmering and textured silk, satin, velvet, and suede create a soft balance for this very luxe rendition of an inspired industrial space.

The elegant and refined entrance hall welcomes visitors with soft pleasing colors, clean lines, and an array of rich touchable textures. The far feature wall functions as a complete work of art. A pair of basket-weave lighting sconces flank the bronze antiqued diamond-pattern mirrors with bronze framing. A sculpture by Lorenzo Quin, Give and Take III centers the scene.

A custom rug runs the length of the hall, while a custom Murano glass chandelier illuminates the space from above. A crocodile leather Fendi Casa console and mirror position across from a contemporary luxury low-profile sofa layered with indulgently soft, silk cushions. The designers had the oil painting above the sofa, like all of the paintings throughout the residence, custom created specifically to complement the color palette around it.

The formal dining room is gracious and glamorous. A custom dining table composed of a walnut tabletop on a brass sled base groups with ten button-tufted velvet dining chairs gathered on a custom silk rug with another structured faceted crystal chandelier sparkling above. Sleek walnut side pieces with brass detailing echo the table’s design creating an Art Deco feel. A pair of brass sculptural light sconces flanks an octagonal shagreen mirror above the buffet.

The look is both classic in its design and very now. The room’s location right beyond the living room makes for an easy flow when entertaining. The luxurious, sophisticated design of this entire apartment demands the return of the “cocktail hour” before dinner. How would you like your drink tonight dear?

The master bedroom features a custom silk-upholstered and grid-designed mirror headboard. Golden yellow accents kick up the soft glistening color palette. Custom upholstered chairs fit into and soften the corners of the room. Crown molding along the ceiling line conceals the window drapery panel’s fittings for a smooth, flawless finish. The beautiful fabrics here and throughout the apartment are sublime in their design simplicity, yet rich in texture and supreme softness. Nothing is plain and ordinary. The combination of the finest materials and iconic luxury brand furnishings mixed with bespoke pieces creates an entirely contemporary and custom luxury experience without being loud or showy. The effect is smart, serene, and very inviting.

The following photos show the remaining bedroom’s rich features. The same level of detail and care used in the rest of the house continue throughout.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend. I hope you enjoyed this exquisitely tailored London apartment and its contemporary luxury design. Bespoke cabinetry, Fendi Casa, crystal-dripping chandeliers, luxurious fabrics, and plenty of mirrors; This is an exciting interior design that I applaud! Let’s amp up the glamour in our homes today!

To see another fabulous residence completed by this award-winning design studio, be sure to see:

Glamorous Luxury Design: Elicyon

To see more contemporary Luxury, be sure to see:

Bespoke Design: Contemporary Luxury

Manhattan Contemporary Luxury Apartment

ELICYON’S CONTEMPORARY LUXURY DESIGN

Elicyon is a luxury design studio based in Chelsea, London. The studio creates unique and exclusive environments, tailored with precision, care, and meticulous attention to detail. The professional and sophisticated design team at Elicyon discover and bring to fruition the vision of their clients. The design team ensures that every project is perfectly tailored to the client’s needs, personal taste, and lifestyle.

Interior Design: Elicyon

Photography: Elicyon

Thanks so much for reading along with me today! Let me hear from you. Please share in the comments some ways you create glamour in your home. We want to share the experience with you.

Have a great day!

May 13, 2016
Pacific Heights Metropolitan Design

Today’s design inspiration comes from a pied-a-terre apartment located in San Francisco’s exclusive Pacific Heights neighborhood overlooking the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. This residence has been created to serve as a glamorous stage for entertaining with interiors completed in a metropolitan design by San Francisco-based interior designer Nicole Hollis.

The two-bedroom apartment spans an entire floor of a classic prewar building dating back to the 1920s. The original millwork and trim have been maintained and restored to honor the history of the structure. The designer prefers to layer texture and shapes in lieu of color and pattern which she has done here achieving a scene of high contrast with a neutral color palette to form an excellent backdrop for the homeowner’s enviable art collection.

Designed to serve as a glamorous stage for entertaining

Creamy white paint covers the walls throughout most of the apartment, while the wood floors are stained a rich, deep brown. In the living room, the designer gathered the main seating area around fireplace. A shimmery velvet-upholstered sofa and leather armchairs, all by Christian Liaigre, gather on a plush Moroccan rug from Tony Kitz gallery. The side table is by Troscan Design, and the floor lamp is from Blackman Cruz. The designer had the ottoman upholstered with a hair-on-hide which perfectly balances the space opposite the fireplace and adds to the worldly appeal. Linen curtains dress the windows.

The dramatic fireplace surround is bespoke designed by Hollis, created with Nero Marquina black marble with white veining. The artwork above it is by Antony Gormley, which is flanked by a pair of hand-blown glass sconces from John Pomp Studios. More of the sconces are placed about the room to impart a warm glow. A collection of books and decorative objects, including a wooden bowl by Philip Moulthrop, gather on the central coffee table creating a personal and inviting feel.

To create a counterpoint for the metropolitan design, the designer painted the study, located just beyond the living room, Pitch Black. The main focal art in the space is the Secretive Three Graces, 2008 by Debbie Han. The table in the center of the room is an Eero Saarinen-design from Knoll. Above it, a Gino Sarfatti lighting fixture from Flos suspends. The large metallic sculpture right outside the space is Artificial Rock #146, 2011 by Zhan Wang.

In the foyer, a Louis Poulsen PH Artichoke pendant hangs above a table from Atelier Gary Lee. A poem by Robert Frost, Square Word Calligraphy: After Apple Picking 2003, drawn by Xu Bing to look like Chinese characters, displays on the wall.

For the formal dining room, Hollis bespoke designed the large oak-and-bronze dining table. A large modern-style bronze Lumiere Chandelier by Jean de Merry suspends above it. Christian Liaigre linen dresses the windows. Robert Rauschenberg’s Japanese Sky I hangs between the windows along with several pieces of art around the room.

For the casual breakfast area, Hollis designed a comfy corner banquette upholstered in leather by Garrett. She paired it with a custom wood table and Dzine side chairs. The arrangement is complete with a honeycomb lighting pendant from Tim Clarke Interior Design.

The kitchen and master bath were the only spaces that needed a full structural renovation. Hollis designed new cabinetry and created a minimalist design aesthetic. Here in the kitchen, the designer painted the cabinets pitch black. She selected Waterworks subway tile for the back-splash and Calacatta Gold marble for the counter-tops.

A lighter, more relaxed mood defines the master bedroom. White bed linens dress the bed while cream-colored Romo draperies frame the windows. Artist Liu Wei’s oil-on-wood paintings, which intentionally crack and change color over time, decorate the walls.

Calacatta Gold marble covers the master bathroom floors. Hollis also used the marble to customize the vanity from Restoration Hardware. The geometric lighting chandelier is by Tom Dixon. The flowing architecture combined with the windows and glass doors demonstrate a nuanced play of light and shadow throughout the day.

Here we see the classic design details in the entrance of the apartment’s residential building.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more metropolitan, art-filled residences, be sure to see:

Sao Paulo Artist’s Apartment Renovation

Brazilian Fashion Stylist Apartment: Diego Revollo

Nicole Hollis’ Metropolitan Design

Nicole Hollis imbues spaces with beauty and emotion through her multidisciplinary design practice grounded in artisanship, conceptual rigor and materials exploration. A lush textural canvas, nuanced study of contrasts and emphasis on the Fine Arts characterize the firm’s strategic approach.

NICOLE HOLLIS conceives timeless interiors that elevate the human spirit. This award-winning collective of interior designers, interior architects, and furniture designers is led by creative director and principal Nicole Hollis in partnership with her husband, CEO Lewis Heathcote. The group offers a holistic approach to the art of living through residential, hospitality, and product design. The studio’s portfolio of clients includes global leaders and notable innovators who appreciate the ability to create a home that supports and enhances their family’s chosen lifestyle.

Interior Design: Nicole Hollis

Photography: Laure Joliet

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed today’s metropolitan design inspiration. Let me hear from you in the comments.

Have a great day!!

April 29, 2016