Tag: Interior Design

Chelsea Mercantile Residence: Jenny Wolf

Today’s design inspiration comes from a charming Chelsea mercantile residence in Manhattan. The pre-war condo is within the much-sought-after, prestigious Chelsea Mercantile Building. New York-based interior designer Jenny Wolf completed the simple yet elegant home for a newly retired couple moving back to the city. She meticulously renovated the interiors of the 2,000 square-foot residence with no detail spared.

The condo features tall ceilings and oversized windows providing an abundance of natural light throughout. Wolf modernized the floorplan with a more functional flow. The living room and dining room now form one open, continual space that flows into the kitchen. A soft, primarily neutral color palette and a multitude of textures accentuate the light and airy design. The designer created a calm urban oasis for the couple. The refined mixes easily with the casual for a home that is both beautiful and comfortable.

Wolf emphasized the high ceilings with the addition of crown moldings throughout the apartment. Here in the main living room, a coffered ceiling with light blue inset panels draws the eye up where a wood-and-wrought iron Rouleau chandelier suspends. A deep sofa from Lee Industries and a wing chair with nailhead trim from Hickory Chair group with a wrought-iron coffee table by Lillian August for Hickory White.

A pair of custom swivel chairs by Lee Industries upholstered in a Quadrille fabric flank a reclaimed-wood coffee table from Noir. A damask applique from Cowtan & Tout forms the pair of custom pillows. The lamp is by Ro Sham Beaux.

Wolf used an antique farm table that belonged to the couple and designed the dining area around it. She had the wooden top stained but had the lower portion distressed and painted with a blue-green milk wash to tie it in with the colors from the kitchen. A custom dining banquet by Lee Industries anchors the table on one side. Custom dining and side chairs upholstered in fabrics by Cowtan and Tout complete the seating. The furnishings gather on a sisal rug below with a spare wrought-iron chandelier above. A collection of decorative plates by Astier de Villatte hang on the wall.

The couple is passionate about cooking and entertaining. They had a good idea of how they wanted the kitchen to lay out. The design team was able to take their lead and ultimately created for them exactly what they wanted. Wolf redesigned the cabinetry and extended it all the way up to the ceiling to provide for extra storage. Honed Carrara marble forms the countertops with white milk-glass for the backsplash. The appliances are top-of-the-line stainless steel except for the fantastic final touch. A beautiful La Cornue oven pairs with a custom stainless-steel hood with antique brass rivets designed by Wolf. The brick wall behind looks distressed with shelves made with reclaimed wood and antique brackets creating an aged look. The center island includes a breakfast bar with custom barstools by TK Collections. The lights suspended above it are by Currey & Company.

The design team transformed the apartment’s long entry hallway from dark and dull to dramatic and inviting. A high gloss, lacquered Venetian plaster on the ceiling reflects light into the windowless space, in addition to adding unexpected color. Framed mirrors, along with antiqued mirrored panels on the doors keep the light moving and sparkling through as well. Schumacher’s Imperial Trellis wallpaper covers the walls. The series of black-lacquered lanterns are by Oomph.

The delightful powder room features hand-painted Chinese scene wall-coverings from Gracie. A vanity with bamboo detailing by J. Tribble continues the theme, as does the mirror frame. The fixtures are from Waterworks and the contemporary sconces are from Currey & Company.

The master bedroom features custom bedding from Leontine Linens in New Orleans. Three layers of Kravet fabric make up the custom draperies. The charcoal velvet bench at the foot of the bed is by Hickory Chair. The side tables are by Vanguard Furniture and hold gourd ceramic lamps by Festoni.

The master bathroom features a clean contemporary design in gray and white. Carrara marble forms the counter-tops with full height frameless mirrors above them. The floors display a mosaic design. The fixtures are from Waterworks.

That completes our tour of this renovated residence within the 100-year-old, limestone-clad luxury conversion Chelsea Mercantile Building.

For another residence completed by this designer, be sure to see:

Urban Loft Bachelor Pad

CHELSEA MERCANTILE RESIDENCE DESIGN INSPIRATION

Jenny Wolf is a New York-based interior designer focused on all aspects of residential interiors. The talented designer offers a lively fresh take on traditional design ideas. Jenny creates homes for her clients that feel stylish, comfortable, and full of life. She works to weave personalities with possessions, creating individualized interiors that suit her client’s personal style and desires.

Jenny is also the owner of a retail store in Pound Ridge, The Huntress New York.

Interior Design: Jenny Wolf Interiors.

Photography: Emily Gilbert

Dakota Willimon is a designer and project manager at Jenny Wolf Interiors. Dakota collaborated with Jenny on the design of this Chelsea Mercantile residence. Be sure to check out her website for more information on this talented designer.

So, what do you think of Chelsea Mercantile Residence: Jenny Wolf? Let me hear from you in the comments! I hope you enjoyed today’s design inspiration.

Thank you so much for reading along with me today, my friend!

Have a great day!

April 21, 2016
Contemporary Mews House: Belgravia

Today’s design inspiration comes from a Contemporary mews house located on a quiet mews row in the heart of London’s exclusive Belgravia district. This residence underwent a comprehensive redevelopment by London-based property developer Residence One. A reconfigured floorplan and modest basement extension increased the overall living space greatly. Interior design firm Laura Hammett completed the interiors giving them a fully bespoke turn-key design. The firm selected every architectural detail and finish, and custom designed every piece of furniture exclusively for this home. The completed mews now provides the ultimate in contemporary design and luxury bespoke specification. Let’s take a little tour!

The 2,200 square-foot, three-bedroom residence arranges over three floors finished to the highest levels of specifications. It includes everything one would expect from a luxury home in this highly sought after location, which is, after all, one of the wealthiest districts in the world. The bespoke designed furnishings are hand-made. Even the door handles, and lighting fixtures are custom created for a true one-of-a-kind luxurious home.

In the opening photo, we see the ground floor entrance into the home with its Carrera marble flooring with Nero Marquina marble inlay. The entrance space gives access to the elegant helical stairs which provide access to the upper floor and the basement level below. The custom designed staircase includes Carrera marble steps with recessed LED lighting and beveled mirrored walls that extend all three floors. A twenty-three-foot bespoke designed Serip Chandelier suspends down through the center of the staircase with its light reflected through the entire house. Natural sources of light were not in abundance, so such creative solutions address the issue quite well.

CONTEMPORARY MEWS HOUSE DESIGN

Just off of the entrance hall is the smart and sublimely chic living area. The ceilings have a specialized high gloss finish that mirrors the marble floors below and has the added benefit of catching and reflecting light. The softly upholstered walls soften and absorb the effect. Custom shelves and cabinetry created with fumed eucalyptus and mirrored inserts form a feature wall. A bronze-framed bioethanol fireplace serves as the rooms focal point. A pair of facing custom contemporary sofas centered by a pair of cocktail tables gather on a bespoke inlaid rug to create the main conversation zone.

The Carrera marble floors and the high gloss ceilings continue here in the formal dining room. A dramatic, darker shade of upholstery covers the walls to create a more intimate setting. The custom created contemporary furnishings ensure a perfect fit and full control over the ambiance.

The sleek and sophisticated kitchen is even glossier still. The marble flooring continues, along with the high gloss on the ceiling. A large skylight forms a portion of the ceiling as another means of allowing light into the home. It remotely changes from clear to opaque. Handmade high-polished bronzed cabinets with walnut interiors pair with book-matched Carrera marble worktops and mirrored back-splashes. The full range of appliances is Gaggenau, of course. The marble island includes a breakfast bar.

The master bedroom is plush and inviting. A deep pile carpet covers the floors. Luscious layers of soft luxe fabrics; silk drapes, mohair upholstered headboard, exquisite bedding, etc., create a perfect haven for dreaming. The chest at the foot of the bed conceals the pop-up television. A pair of mirrored pocket doors separates the bedroom from its marble bathroom which includes a walk-in shower and a separate soaking tub. The fixtures are Samuel Heath and the mirrors have auto demisters.

A second, equally comfortable and stylish bedroom with its bath shares the upper floor. The third bedroom and its adjoining bathroom are down on the basement level.

The second bedroom upstairs opens to this terrace with cedar decking and trellis. The walk-on glass floor forms the skylight noted earlier in the kitchen.

To complete our tour, we have the home theater located down on the bottom level along with the third bedroom. There is also a powder room down on this level. The walls of the theater room are composed of upholstered louvered wall panels with full LED lighting. A black glass wall surround envelopes the 80″ cinema projector screen. The audio and visual equipment masterfully integrates cleverly out of sight. The recreational space includes a marble top bar area and a drinks fridge as well.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more beautiful residences completed by this designer, be sure to see:

London Georgian Townhouse Renewal.

Classic Contemporary Design: Laura Hammett

CONTEMPORARY MEWS HOUSE DESIGN INSPIRATION

Laura Hammett is a London-based interior design and interior architecture practice specializing in high-end, luxury residential projects. The multi-award-winning firm has quickly become an industry highlight offering highly personalized bespoke design services for developers and private clients. Their work combines a meticulously detailed approach with their signature timeless classic contemporary style tailored to meet the individual needs of each client.

Property Development: Residence One

Interior Design: Laura Hammett

Thank you all so very much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed this Contemporary mews house. I hope you found some wonderful ideas for your projects today. Let me hear from you all in the comments!

Have a great day!!!

April 13, 2016
Theatrical Design: Manhattan Loft Residence

This 2,800 square-foot residence has been created from a full-floor loft space within a landmark 1898 Beaux Arts building in downtown Manhattan. The spacious interiors, designed by the New York based Architect and Interior Designer Garrow Kedigian, feature a look of layered luxe. The structure reflects the designers signature streamlined classic design principles, while bold colors, rich textures, and contrasting elements create a lively and theatrical design.

The art-filled home was created for cozy living and entertaining with great style. The inspiring interior design includes an eclectic mixing of mid-century Modern furnishings, an array of sumptuous fabrics and upholstery, and an assortment of both antique and new custom contemporary pieces. There is also a bit of Eastern influence and a touch of Bohemian flair. The effect is very inviting, very intriguing, and makes you wish you were on the invitation list for the owners next fabulous gathering. That is what makes it our design inspiration for today. Let’s take a look around!

CREATED FOR COZY LIVING AND ENTERTAINING WITH GREAT STYLE

THEATRICAL DESIGN INSPIRATION

The grand foyer sets the tone for the rest of the apartment’s theatrical design. The dramatic space has been composed as a library/sitting area inspired by the late Brooke Astor’s famous library in her New York duplex. A custom created, high-gloss deep eggplant color covers the paneled walls and bookcases. Gilded accents highlighting the edges of the bookcases allow the room to sparkle.

Ebanista velvet with contrasting welt and banding cover the custom sofa tucked between two bookcases, with pillows in fabrics by Schumacher and Donghia. The chair is a custom Art Deco-style, tall barrel-back design with a gilded wooden frame by Charlene Asdourian, covered in a Donghia velvet with contrasting trim. A wool and bamboo silk carpet by Tufenkian covers the floor. A Scheherazade Pendent by Odegard made with Fortuny silk suspends above a contemporary free-form center hall table by DesignLush. Interesting books, curious objects, and personal mementos fill the shelves making the room all the more intriguing. The painting and sculpture are the homeowner’s own artworks.

EASTERN INFLUENCE AND BOHEMIAN FLAIR

The foyer provides entry into the long, double volume L-shaped living space gathered into two seating areas. The first being an intimate and more formal grouping composed of two customized Donghia Toulouse sofas upholstered in a classic diamond-velvet by Nancy Corzine, and a Nancy Corzine Rateau Bergere armchair upholstered in Chartreuse Chamois by Quadrille. The cocktail table in the center was the homeowners dining table before, now cut down for this new use. A custom Sun Pendant lighting fixture by Paul Ferrante hangs above.

“The architecture is what sets the tone and tells you what you need to do with a space.”GK

The homeowner has an expansive and ever-revolving collection of artworks. The apartment has expansive windows and few large wall areas on which to hang the art. So, the brilliant design solution was to suspend the artwork from adjustable brass chains before walls of silk drapes. The lustrous silk panels with contrasting Bergamo banding along the bottoms drape most of the living area’s outer walls. They were left by the residence’s former owner, interior designer Jamie Drake.

The second seating area situates in the building’s front corner with excellent views in both directions. A large richly colored velvet Gustavian-style sectional sofa casually groups with a couple of upholstered armchairs. A custom-created coffee table centers the space. I love the pair of tall cathedral candle-sticks.

The dining area is positioned in the alcove off the far end of the living area. Here Kedigian presents a contemporary design in contrast to the more formal and traditional seating settings of the living spaces. The custom dining table features a bespoke cubist inspired base, conceived as a series of interlocking grid forms of bronze iron finished with gold leaf, completed with a glass top. Clarence House silk covers the Mid-century Modern dining chairs. The Profiles Marseilles sideboard cabinet features doors in polished unlacquered brass, each with nine circular openings. Bleached goatskin parchment with an off-white lacquer finish covers the main body, which sits on splayed legs with brass sabots. The painting above it is by Elliot Osgood, with the other art being the homeowner’s own. The designer finished the maple floors throughout the apartment with a dark stain.

Rich reds give the master bedroom a sophisticated worldly appeal. An assortment of linens with custom bed pillows dress the tufted upholstered and ebonized wood framed bed. The intricately embroidered drapes draw the eye up and emphasize the ceilings height.

In the guest bedroom, Venetian plaster designed to mimic leather hide covers the walls. The bed comprises a custom headboard by Albert Vitiello, linens by Schweitzer Linens, a coverlet by Bunny Williams Home, and an assortment of pillows. The silk curtains include contrast banding by Cowtan & Tout. The mirror is from the previous owner. A bespoke carpet from Mark Nelson Designs covers the floor.

Here in the statement making powder room, Kedigian lined the walls with custom wall drapes for the most theatrical design effect yet. He added crown molding and placed the drapery poles discretely behind it. The client’s art hangs with brass chains. A 19th-century Swedish Mirror hangs above the custom pedestal sink from Urban Archaeology. This feels very New Orleans French Quarter to me, very decadent. Love it!

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more dramatic Manhattan residences, be sure to see:

Park Avenue Streamlined Classic

Jamie Drake’s Apartment: West Chelsea

GARROW KEDIGIAN’S THEATRICAL DESIGN

Garrow Kedigian was born and raised in Montreal, Canada where he attended the prestigious McGill University’s Architecture program. After completing his formal education, Garrow moved to Boston, MA where he gained six years of experience at the renowned offices of interior designer William Hodgins—before deciding to take a bite out of the “Big Apple.” Garrow has been in New York since relocating in 2000. After working for several design powerhouses in New York City, Garrow established his own design firm in 2001. The designers classically trained architectural background is the foundation for most of his interior design work. He presides over multiple interior design endeavors around the world. His distinctive style is rooted in tradition but characterized by a contemporary flair.

Architecture & Interior Design: Garrow Kedigian

Photography provided by Garrow Kedigian

Special thanks again to Garrow Kedigian and James who provided the photos and descriptions and last minute details. Thanks so much you guys!!

Thank you for reading along with me today. I hope you enjoyed the wonderful theatrical interiors of this Manhattan residence. I really loved the collected and layered effect achieved. What do you think? Let me hear from you in the comments!

Have a great day!!

April 4, 2016
Noho Modern Design: Elena Frampton

Our design inspiration today comes from a warm and inviting downtown Manhattan apartment created for a bachelor and his teenage son. The residence features clean lines, Mid-Century Modern design furnishings, and vibrant Contemporary art. New York based interior designer Elena Frampton of Frampton Co completed the home with a comprehensive renovation and reconfiguration of two separate apartments into one. The owner and his son relocated from the Upper East Side to Bond Street in the decidedly edgier NoHo district. The designer created for them interiors fitting for their new location. Let’s take a look!

CLEAN LINES, MODERN FURNISHINGS, AND VIBRANT ART

A central hall opens to the public living/entertaining spaces on one end and the private bedrooms on the other. The building’s existing interior architecture creates loft-like conditions with its tall ceilings and windows. The designer captured and reflected this in the design of the public living areas. The family room, a living area, the kitchen and dining area, and other spaces are all within one large open space with each area defined by its use and furnishings.

MODERN DESIGN INSPIRATION

The living area furnishings gather before the fireplace on a wool Lepere rug. A tufted leather sofa pairs with two Louis Paolozzi modern design chairs upholstered in light blue linen centered by a John Vesey X-base glass-top cocktail table from Lobel Modern. A cobalt-blue Vistosi Murano glass chandelier suspends above.

Frampton created the sophisticated modern design kitchen with custom walnut cabinetry and dark gray soapstone for the back-splash. The homeowner did not want a formal dining table at all. So, instead the designer created the 13-foot island finished with a copper top. The owner saw the design at a local restaurant and asked the designer to replicate the look which really adds a lot of style to the space. The ovens are by Wolf and the barstools are from Roche Bobois.

A small study space is created just beyond the sitting area with a desk by Trau with a steel base and rosewood top. The polished-nickle lamp is by Karl Springer. All of the artwork throughout is from the owner’s previous home, Frampton had re-framed to integrate into the design of this new residence.

An area rug defines the family room on which it arranges. A custom walnut-and-brass wall with exposed media equipment continues the look created in the kitchen. The sofa is a Harvey Probber upholstered in a wool by Holland & Sherry. A pair of tufted chairs are upholstered in lavender flannel wool by Holland & Sherry. A lizard embossed cocktail table by Karl Springer centers the room. Violet wool covers a footstool by Angela Brown Ltd. Hand-dipped alpaca ombre drapes by Rosemary Hallgarten from ALT for Living frame the floor-to-ceiling, north-facing windows across this entire back wall.

Adjacent the family room, a leather upholstered wall completes the public living layout. The space acts as a games area and includes a classic billiard table.

To create more richness in the spacious master bedroom, the designer had the wall behind the bed finished with hand-applied blue-green plaster and dressed the windows in a similar hue. The leather-and-linen headboard, as well as the side table are both from Poltrona Frau. Periwinkle lamb’s wool covers a Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin chair and a stainless steel ottoman by the Bright Group in the corner. The fireplace is of bespoke design by Frampton. A chandelier by Kalmar composed of razor-cut textured glass sparkles above with a limited-edition wool carpet by Lepere below.

A little peek into the custom-finished master bedroom’s closet and the master bathroom where stone slabs mix with teak and mosaic tile. There is also a soaking tub, though not in view here.

For the son’s bedroom, he was very involved in the design process. The draperies are a linen with metallic shimmer by Pierre Frey. The large Lepere chair in the corner is upholstered in a blue wool from Osbourne & Little. An Italian Futurist chandelier from Kerson 20th Century hangs above it all. He has an en suite bathroom as well. There is also a third guest bedroom and bath, as well as a guest powder room.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more modern design inspiration be sure to see:

Beverly Hills Modern

California Modern Design: Sunset Plaza

ELANA FRAMPTON’S MODERN DESIGN

Frampton Co designs and creates interior experiences. Commitment to design’s relevance to daily life and our human connection to the spaces we inhabit characterizes their approach. The studio maintains a diverse portfolio, from carefully orchestrated residences with signature details to contextually sensitive and lifestyle-branded commercial projects. Combining a distinct aesthetic sensibility with methodical implementation, their attentive client collaborations bring a unique voice to each project. Engaging balanced atmospheres, sculptural compositions, meticulous craftsmanship, dimensional palettes, and confident unexpected choices mark Frampton’s work. The client serves as inspiration as they turn aesthetic visions into joyous functional realities.

Interior Design: Elena Frampton of Frampton Co

Photography: Joshua McHugh

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed this downtown Manhattan apartment with its Mid-Century Modern pieces mixed flawlessly with more contemporary design and custom works. Hopefully you picked up some design tips. Let me hear from you in the comments. What do you all think of this Modern Design?

Have a wonderful day!

March 28, 2016
St Saviours Mansion: Church Conversion

St. Saviours is a former church that has been converted into a glorious private mansion in the heart of Knightsbridge, London’s prime residential neighborhood. This award-winning church conversion is the product of the collaborative talents assembled by the super-prime property developers, Rigby & Rigby, paired with the very esteemed international luxury interior design studio, Taylor Howes.

The home’s owners were international clients who lived abroad but were clear in their brief: create a chic, understated design while retaining the building’s original features. Ultimately, a neighboring mews house was also obtained and linked to the residence at ground and basement level in order to add additional bedroom suites to the existing five created in the main house, as well as to create an even larger basement level of living area. The addition brought the total to 11,500 square-feet of luxurious interiors completed with calm neutrals and custom detailing, all finished to the highest standards. This property really caught my attention when I initially came across it, and I immediately knew you would find it informative too. So, that is what makes this church conversion our design inspiration for today.

CHURCH CONVERSION DESIGN INSPIRATION

The entrance hall welcomes visitors with polished plaster walls with bronze inserts and marble floors. The ceiling above features a round coffered design which has been finished with platinum leaf, from which a platinized silver contemporary design chandelier is suspended.

To one side of the entrance hall is the comfy sitting/waiting room. If you must wait, this is a perfect place to do so. The glass wall before it is made with “electromagnetic” privacy glass which can change from clear to opaque at the touch of a button for those occasions when your visiting guest are super high-profile, and they don’t want the help to see them. The custom furnishings are smart with clean lines and neutral earthy shades including the mahogany cabinet which holds a pop-up television that disappears when not in use. The crocodile leather upholstered ottoman clearly is the star in this arrangement, after the painting whose colors defined those in the room.

Forward from the entry hall, the space opens wide in all directions. The central open locations of the former church are now the wide, open-plan drawing room that is the heart of the home. The room boasts 42′ vaulted ceilings with the original beams and stone pillars. A glass elevator of bespoke design rises through the center of the helical stone staircase that serves all four floors. The massive space is perfect for entertaining large crowds. The seating/conversational areas gather on individual area rugs that define their spaces along the marble floors. The walls are finished with limestone and polished plaster.

A cabinet of bespoke design placed behind the sofa defines the space between the dining and main reception area. The cabinet houses a double-sided pop-up television that provides for watching television from either the seating area or from the dining table, with the back-to-back televisions sinking into the floor when not in use. A mahogany temperature-controlled wine storage and display unit is stands behind the dining table. A discreet side door leads through to the kitchen.

Custom units by Boffi and Gaggenau appliances form the family kitchen and breakfast area. On the far wall, additional bespoke designed cabinets house yet another television. A Murano glass chandelier hangs above the breakfast table. Beyond this kitchen is a second kitchen of commercial grade in stainless steel and a full range of industrial kitchen appliances.

A mezzanine level living area provides a more informal place to hang and entertain close associates. The space gathers before the fireplace set in a thirty-one-foot-high limestone surround with a television mounted over it. Above the fireplace, a Damien Hirst butterfly painting hangs. There is a clear view through to the bronze and glass elevator that passes through the custom spiraling staircase around it.

Here we have the fabulous master bedroom suite up on the first floor, which includes vaulted ceilings and the ornate original beams. For this special space, the beautiful original church windows serve as the focal point. Three sections, divided by arches form the suite: bedroom, sitting area, and bath. The floors up here change from marble to walnut wood. Silk wall coverings dress the walls while silk curtains dress the windows. In the master bath, a specially commissioned bronze floating wall with cherry blossoms cast in bronze resin creates the focal point behind the soaking tub.

This is one of the several guest bedroom suites. It too features vaulted ceilings and original Gothic stone arches. The designers dressed the bedroom in silks and covered the walnut floors with a silk rug. The bathroom is just a harmony of natural light and smooth perfection; book matched marble, drawers finished in liquid platinum, and polished nickel fixtures, the list goes on.

Down on the lower level, we have the spacious media and entertaining room. Extensive mahogany cabinetry, built-in seating banquets, a full bar and countless fine details abound. The custom 120″ television with surround sound built-in makes for a wonderful experience. Mahogany and leather panels cover the walls. The designers finished the coffered ceilings with platinum leaf. This is quite a room!

To complete the home with the very best, more indulgent spaces were created down on the lower level. These include a thirty-foot heated pool with Jacuzzi, a spa area with sauna, a steam room, and private treatment rooms. All this, and a fully equipped gym and a juice bar.

There is a total of seven bedroom suites, plus additional quarters for the staff. The details are endless. This church conversion covered every detail while staying true to the original architectural style.

For more of this designers elegant work, be sure to see:

Luxury Interior Design: Mayfair

Compact Luxury Design: Taylor Howes

TAYLOR HOWES’ CHURCH CONVERSION

Over the last two decades, Taylor Howes has made its name within the industry for interiors that are intelligent, elegant, dynamic, and infused with passion and creativity. Their interior design practice is talented, friendly, approachable, and absolutely committed to achieving the best design solution possible for any given project, whether private residence, show suite, hotel, spa, or restaurant environment.

Property Development: Rigby & Rigby

Interior Design: Taylor Howes

Photography: Tom Sullam

Thanks so much for reading along with me! Let me hear from you all in the comments. What do you all think of this beautiful church conversion?

Have a great day!

March 7, 2016
Contemporary Penthouse Design: Studio Munge

This sleek and very refined penthouse is located within an exclusive residential condominium building in the heart of Toronto’s historic St. Lawrence neighborhood. The 4,500 square-foot, two-level residence has been given an edited and sophisticated new contemporary penthouse design by the Toronto based interior design firm Studio Munge. Every detail in this luxury home has been masterfully appointed by the design firm who has imparted a clean, modern aesthetic without sacrificing any of the comforts of a traditional single family home. The penthouse illustrates very well how an urban condo can have all the comforts of a traditional home.

The light-filled, open-flow and airy interiors feature floor-to-ceiling windows, along with an additional 2,000 square-feet of sprawling outdoor terrace which wraps around the entire first level, providing plenty of space both indoors and out, as well as expansive views across the city. The inspiring interior design within this penthouse ultimately created the ideal home for the owners.

The clients initially were concerned that moving to a condominium would prohibit them from enjoying the lifestyle they had become accustomed to in their family home while raising their children, who are all grown and out of the house now. They desired the benefits of living in a luxury residential building in such a prime location, as well as the chance to have a serene, contemporary design created for adults within it, but just weren’t perfectly sure. They put their faith in Studio Munge, whose work they much admired and they are so glad they did. The design firm made it a point to integrate the same comforts found in their traditional family home, complete with abundant storage, outdoor space and ample room for entertaining friends and family.

COBTEMPORARY PENTHOUSE DESIGN INSPIRATION

Studio Munge used a soft, neutral color palette, and natural but luxurious finishes to accentuate the sculptural quality of each element within.  The main living room is spare as in the entire home, and minimalist in its effect. The space is furnished with contemporary pieces from Italian furnishings company Minotti, including two generously proportioned Dubuffet sofas, paired with the Cortina armchair and round Bressen coffee table. All gather on a custom cream-colored, hairy-hide rug from Kyle Bunting. The art used in the residence was carefully selected according to its scale and function within each area that it occupies. Its deliberate placement punctuates the living areas and creates a fascinating interplay with the surrounding palette.

The sculptural spiral staircase separates the living and dining areas on the main floor and provides access to the upper level.

“I built a studio where disciplines are free to think for themselves, driven by curiosity and passion. “AM

The home lays out as a series of distinct but open spaces to create an uncluttered atmosphere that promotes effortless transition between rooms.

An open-concept kitchen flows from the dining room. Custom furnishings with clean lines, free of any distracting ornamentation allow the pieces to shine for their design alone. The sophisticated kitchen features stone surfaces, custom Studio Munge designed cabinetry, and of course, Miele appliances. A spectacular two-way Costa Azure marble-clad digital fireplace in the dining room creates the focal point. The dark marble offers a delicious contrast to the soft color palette displayed so far while remaining neutral and dignified. The contemporary lighting piece above the table offers some visual drama.

The den lies just beyond the dining area. These rooms share the two-way digital fireplace with marble faced wall surround. The contemporary penthouse design continues in warm, earthy shades with the same minimalist approach. This room gives a greater nod to more relaxed comfort. Its design provides casual family living space with its plush upholstered seating and television above the fireplace.

The powder room is the epitome of chic!  This is so good. Any room featuring walls of mirrors, especially one lit from behind wins with me. The very contemporary design sinks, lit from within, with their wall mounted faucets make for a very smart look.

On the second floor, a lounge area directly off the spiral staircase provides a place to unwind. It also gives access to the master bedroom, guest bedroom, and the home library/study.

Custom shelving and the main staircase structure partially hide the library. This gives it a sense of privacy while maintaining the open concept feel. This level includes wood flooring laid in a classic herringbone design. The two-way digital fireplace up here sports a smoother surround. A perfect balance of edited contemporary penthouse design with luxe natural finishes.

In the master bedroom, the bed’s headboard design integrates with the upholstered walls which conceal storage areas. Bespoke designed furnishings and luxurious Italian linens on the bed complete this room with style.

Stone envelopes the master bathroom, completed with sleek, custom cabinetry. The space includes separate standing showers and a free-floating soaking tub. Perfectly sublime right? Hidden storage provides a place for things, so the owners never have to feel cramped or cluttered. A correct place for everything and everything in its place. My kind of styling indeed!

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

Driven by a passionate curiosity in the human experience and believing that a sense of wonder and discovery are key to the creation of meaningful environments, Studio Munge creates luxurious design experiences that are warm and timeless—but also surprising and dramatic.

For more clean, contemporary design, be sure to see:

Marquand: Refined Contemporary Design

Seaside Contemporary Residence: Regalia

STUDIO MUNGE’S CONTEMPORARY PENTHOUSE DESIGN

Passion for great design drives Studio Munge. Excellence and exceptional service guide the design firm. Creative leadership informs and inspires their multidisciplinary team to produce distinctive, transformative design. For more than 20 years Principal Alessandro Munge’s global perspective, inquisitive nature, and quest for the perfect solution propelled Studio Munge onto the international stage.

Interior Design: Studio Munge

Photography: Evan Dion

Thanks so much for reading along with me! We appreciate you so very much!

Have a great day!!

March 2, 2016
Firethorn: Contemporary Mountain Retreat

This mountain retreat, tucked into North Carolina’s “Crown of the Blue Ridge Mountains” town of Blowing Rock has been given a fresh new contemporary design by the Miami-based interior design firm, Britto Charette. The residence is located in prestigious Firethorn, an exclusive gated community set within the dense forest that offers owners the beauty of the natural surroundings in a private setting; mountain living at its finest. The homes within the community are designed to exist in harmony with the surroundings. The architecture and building materials used to create the homes reflect the heritage of the region and provide for visual continuity. The area’s high elevation results in cooler summer temperatures than the surrounding lowlands to the south and east, which is what made Blowing Rock a summer destination many years ago. Cooler summers, winter skiing, and ample opportunity for outdoor adventure make this an ideal location.

In Miami, a city where many from the Northern parts of the country migrate every winter for its warmer climate, the summers get a little hot. The weather that draws the crowds in the winter, sends even the local residents looking for a milder reprieve, which was the case with this home. A busy Miami couple, who were already clients of Britto Charette, asked them to weigh in on the final selection of prospective second homes in North Carolina, which was to serve as a mountain retreat from their hectic schedules and Miami’s humid summers.

SUMMER MOUNTAIN RETREAT

Cooler summers, winter skiing, and ample opportunity for outdoor adventure make this an ideal location.

The couple decided on this four bedroom, four-bathroom home spread over three floors, where yellowed knotty pine wood predominated. They asked the designers to completely renovate the home, beginning with the heavy wood beams and myriad wrought iron brackets that contributed to an outdated and masculine feel that lacked the coziness desired. The couple agreed with the designers that they wanted to maintain the relevant architecture of the region by preserving many aspects of the home. They also wanted to bring in some of the light and bright interiors created within their Miami home.

First on the designers’ list was the wood flooring. The pitted pine surface had acquired a mustard patina with age which took weeks of painstaking work to grind down and smooth out. Once the contractors finished, the floors were given a darker, more contemporary finish that instantly updated the rooms.

The next task was to remove the original stone fireplace and replace it with something that would serve as the defining focal point of the home. A monumental, contemporary-style, slate-fronted fireplace with side firewood storage running nearly the full height on either side does just that. The vertical lines highlight the room’s soaring ceiling height of 22’ with a 25’ peak. The designers removed an overhanging ledge that wrapped around the upper loft area to create a clean volume of space. They covered the rustic exposed wood ceilings leaving only the structural beams. Wrought iron flat brackets replaced the decorative finials and traditional brackets to provide a sophisticated design update. A large incandescent light fixture suspends above the room washing it with soft light.

Downstairs, the foyer provides a perfect welcome with shades of blue green in the slate floors and in the contemporary art suspended above the credenza. The pieces displayed on top of the credenza are from Britto Charette’s own WASI porcelains collection.

The downstairs family room also features a contemporary fireplace, fronted with slate and with floor-to-ceiling firewood storage spaces along each side. Soft monochromatic upholstered furnishings with clean lines highlighted with touches of luxe fur throws and pillows keep the rooms light, modern and inviting. Graphic modern art pieces create a perfect contrast to the wood beams for a contemporary balance. A Britto Charette bespoke designed large ottoman centers the room.

In the kitchen with dining area, the designers concentrated their efforts on editing the space. Working around the preexisting island, they removed moldings and cleaned/polished the range/oven hood. The couple wished to keep the cabinetry, so the designers stained it and removed the backsplash tile, replacing it with stone. The Britto Charette bespoke designed dining table groups with chairs from Club Collection.

The powder room, located on the first floor, features raffia wall coverings to create texture. A vessel sink with industrial-style faucets enhances the modern rustic vibe, as does the leather framed mirror reflecting the contemporary wall art.

In the mountain retreat master bedroom suite, the designers dressed up the generous space. To create a cleaner look, drywall covers the dark paneling leaving only the support beams exposed. Custom wall panels by Britto Charette soften the room and form the headboard. The custom nightstands are by Britto Charette. A snakeskin bench at the foot of the bed adds a touch of drama. A bookshelf and upholstered chair create a cozy corner reading nook.

In the master bathroom, the designers left the wood beams and exposed wood ceilings intact. Wall coverings and a fabric shade soften the effect. New faucets and fixtures make the space more contemporary.

The home includes a lovely guest bedroom suite down on the lower level away from the other rooms. Softly upholstered walls and modern touches articulate the contemporary side of this mountain retreat.

The remaining guest bedrooms situate on the upper floor and have a more rustic feel to them. The ceilings maintain their original exposed wood. The neutral colors do not take away from the view of the outdoors. Chevron wall coverings create feature walls behind the upholstered headboards in both rooms.

The porch and deck, created with the raw materials surrounding the property, provide a gathering area for summer evenings. An outdoor fireplace completes this contemporary take on rustic mountain design.

The homes within the community are designed to exist in harmony with the surroundings.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my dear friend.

For more beautiful residences completed by these designers, be sure to see:

Marquand: Refined Contemporary Design

Seaside Contemporary Residence: Regalia

Modern Classic Design: Golden Mile

MOUNTAIN RETREAT DESIGN INSPIRATION

Also, be sure to check out their website. It has a wonderfully insightful blog.

Interior Design: Britto Charette

Photography: Dustin Peck Photography

Thanks so much for reading along with me, my friend! Let me hear from you all in the comments. I look forward to reading your thoughts on this contemporary mountain retreat!

HAVE A GREAT DAY!!!!!!

February 26, 2016
Beverly Park Chateau

Today’s design inspiration comes from a grand French chateau-inspired residence located within the exclusive guard-gated community of Beverly Park in the lush hills overlooking Los Angeles. The architectural design captures the essence of the fine country estates once owned by the ancient nobility in France. The newly built 40,000 square-foot mansion, designed by architect Richard Landry, interprets the classic European style for contemporary living appropriate to Southern California. The modern layout observes human proportions, with interior design by Joan Behnke, and offers up a restrained sense of luxury. This Beverly Park Chateau was not created to be a show house, but is show-worthy. Let’s take a look!

The home sits back on its lot and spreads out across the width almost entirely. Custom entry gates located on one end of the property open to reveal the residence hidden beyond them. A cobblestone driveway winds across the lawn to the centrally located motor court created before the main entrance. The drive then proceeds, running along the front of the property and either around to the garages situated along the side, or else out to the exit gates located on the opposite end. The estate appears as though it has existed here for centuries.

Great efforts went into creating the time-worn variation and texture for a genuinely old-world finish. Salvaged rubble stone covers the exterior facade with distressed limestone forming the door and window surrounds. Blue slate covers the massive Mansard roof, punctuated with dormer windows and roof spires. Weathered pavers form the path from the motor court, through the formal parterre garden, up to the front entrance creating a scenic procession.

GRAND BEVERLY PARK CHATEAU

The grand double-height entrance foyer, crowned with a glass dome above, ensures a definite sense of arrival and makes a lasting first impression. The vast light-filled, open space gives way in all directions. Visitors pass through a pair of massive wrought-iron doors backed with glass Behnke found in a French antique shop. A 19th-century hanging lantern suspends beneath the dome. Two glass-topped tables with 18th-century French bases arranged on a contemporary silk rug display a pair of vases by Hervé van der Straeten and a Bernar Venet sculpture. Classic and Contemporary designs combine effortlessly for a timeless appeal.

To make the large home more inviting, the architect divided the floor plan into clusters of rooms arranged around their function. The first group off the foyer are rooms for entertaining including the living room, the formal dining room, and the library.

The gracious formal living room features loads of charm and character. The design evokes the style and spirit of an elegant Parisian apartment. A custom created antiqued-furniture finish gives the wood-paneled walls their French gray-green color. The reclaimed antique limestone fireplace came from an old European estate. A notable contemporary painting hangs over the mantle for balance. Antique furnishings and decorative objects spanning centuries gather with new custom pieces bespoke designed by Behnke creating the impression of being accumulated over time. Rich colors and a variety of textured fabrics further enrich the senses. The room arranges on a custom contemporary silk rug. There is a worldly sophistication without being overly formal or stiff as one often finds in large homes. Along the back of the room, multiple sets of French doors flood the room with natural light and open onto a garden terrace.

The formal dining room features layers of rich wood trim and hand-laid herringbone floors composed of reclaimed antique French oak. The rich, saturated colors and contemporary interpretation of traditional design elements remind me of the French Quarter in New Orleans. The wrought-iron doors provide passage to a spiral staircase leading down to the wine cellar. The home includes a specific professional grade catering kitchen to allow the owners to serve any number of guests with ease. The design of this Beverly Park Chateau gives itself to entertaining with style on a large scale.

The library embraces a “gentlemen’s club” version of traditional design with its polished wood-paneled walls, intricate Oriental rug, and navy blue with gold accents. An artist custom created the ceiling designs by applying hand-painted canvases between the coffers. French antiques alongside new bespoke furnishings maintain the warm and intimate atmosphere while remaining completely functional. You are sure to be offered a Brandy, perhaps a Louis XIII Remy Cognac. A contemporary painting by Guy Diehl hangs above the Belgian marble fireplace.

No French country estate would be complete without a loggia with a fireplace. This one has glass walls that slide away to open two of its outer walls to the outdoors. The loggia embraces the best of Southern California’s indoor-outdoor living and gives way to the outer entertaining areas. The multi-purpose family gathering place located off the living room and library has comfortable all-weather wicker furniture. This arrangement of the rooms provides an excellent flow for guests when entertaining.

On the opposite end of the first floor, another cluster of rooms exists for the family and private living. These rooms have a far more casual French Country style. Here we have the family room with rough reclaimed wood beamed ceilings and a warmer color palette. Less formal traditional furnishings give the room the feel of a relaxed country home. It’s a luxe take on rustic!

The formal dining room we saw above and the catering kitchen mentioned are really used for formal entertaining purposes mainly. The home also includes this less formal, open flow family living-dining-kitchen area. This kitchen is where the family prepares their regular meals. The comfortable living area includes a large screen TV where the family really kicks back, and this more intimate, relaxed dining area is the one the family uses normally. The warm French Country vibe created in the adjacent family room carries into this area as well. The kitchen features a large center island topped with striking white-and-gray marble and is complete with a breakfast bar. The appliances are arranged around the island for easy access. The dining table is actually placed in a space that arches out and is lined with large windows which look out onto the back lawn.

The wine storage room on the basement level can be accessed directly from the dining room or from the home’s lower-level entertaining area. The room holds approximately 2,600 bottles of wine perfectly displayed in custom cases. The space includes an inner sitting area separated from the actual wine-storage by glass walls which allow for dual climate zones. This design team leaves no detail untouched. The rough-hewn timber and brick barrel vaulted ceilings paired with the weathered and aged floors give the space the look of an authentic forever old wine cellar whose wines have aged for years.

The home includes a basement level cluster of rooms designed for informal entertaining. The lower subterranean level entertaining area includes a circular sitting lounge with a big-screen television, along with a series of billiards/casino-style spaces complete with a pool table, card playing tables, and other games tables, as well as a full bar. The entire lower level expresses an Art Deco theme which unifies the spaces and gives it an air of refinement.

Also located down on this level is the home’s superb custom theater. The room includes custom mohair upholstered furnishings, silk draperies, and luxe finishes to complement the latest visual and sound equipment. The custom mill-work is all mahogany.

The second floor of the home holds a fully equipped private gym, a home office, and most of the bedrooms suites including (shown here) the expansive master bedroom suite. The master suite includes a sitting room, a generously scaled bedroom with another sitting area, and his-and-her bathrooms and closets. The walls are fabric upholstered and the floors are covered with custom silk carpet. The focal point in the room is the canopy bed with hand embroidery on the headboard and canopy drapes composed of four layers of sheer panels. A cabinet behind the sofa holds a pop-up television to watch from bed.

His bathroom impresses with dark walnut paneled walls and polished golden marble. Her spacious marble and paneled bathroom calms with pale shades of creams and pink. Both feature classic design detailing and both are quite grand and perfect in this home.

Here we see the homeowner’s private terrace overlooking the back lawn. It can only be accessed from the master bathroom making it the perfect place to escape.

These meandering cobblestone paths running between the stone structures of the main residence, guest house, and other outlying buildings appear as though they are part of an old European village and are very charming. Can you imagine? Don’t you agree? The entire Beverly Park Chateau is a wonderful work of art and craftsmanship. Most importantly, it evokes a light heart, cheer, and amusement. The whole point is to not take any of it too seriously. That is the most brilliant point in these details!

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more projects from these great talents, be sure to see:

Beverly Hills Deco Villa: Joan Behnke

Villa del Lago: Tuscan Inspired Estate

BEVERLY PARK CHATEAU DESIGN INSPIRATION

Designing projects all over the globe, Landry Design Group strives to raise the international standards in custom residential architecture. The award-winning design studio was founded in 1987 by Richard Landry. Recognized for designs in a wide range of architectural styles, the team of service-oriented experts collaborate to create residences spanning from classical estates to rural villas and cutting-edge contemporary structures.

Richard Landry has multiple beautiful Architectural Design Books that showcase many of the extraordinary homes created by his firm. If you love exceptional architecture, you must be sure to see these.

***

Founded in 1999, Joan Behnke & Associates, Inc. is rooted in the deep belief of interior design as both a fine art and a profound opportunity for self-expression. The firm, now grown to an internationally acclaimed design practice, thrives on working intimately with their clients to transform the spaces they inhabit and infuse them with a deeper kind of beauty that transcends the imagination and continues to flourish and inspire for a lifetime.

Architecture: Landry Design Group

Interior Design: Joan Behnke

Photography: Erhard Pfeiffer

This home was named Robb Report Ultimate Home

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed this lovely estate. Let me hear from you in the comments! What do you think of Beverly Park Chateau?

Have a great day!!

February 19, 2016
Knightsbridge Contemporary Penthouse: Staffan Tollgard

This award-winning Knightsbridge contemporary penthouse features subtle bespoke designs and exquisite detailing. The luxurious residence provides it’s owner a restful haven in the city and serves as an impressive showplace where he can entertain with style. The striking sophisticated design, completed by the London-based Staffan Tollgard Design Group, features exceptional finishes and flawless quality throughout. For our design inspiration today, let’s take a look at this sleek home which won International Property Awards 2015 “Best London Apartment”, as well as “Best UK apartment”.

From the outside, one sees a stately row of preservation preserved, classic design, ornate red-brick Queen Anne townhomes lining a prestigious garden square. The residence is not a narrow arrangement of rooms on several floors though. It is a spacious single floor, bilateral flat created from the fusion of distinct properties spanning the upper floors of two townhomes. The reconfigured penthouse meets the desired contemporary objectives while respecting the heritage and grandeur of the original period architecture. The plan feels like it has just always been that way.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE CONTEMPORARY PENTHOUSE

One enters the Knightsbridge contemporary penthouse through a generously proportioned hallway designed to immediately convey status and to set the tone for the rest of the journey. The grand light-filled entrance hall immediately evokes a sophisticated tone with a limited color palette which runs throughout the property. The dramatic entry includes beautifully veined Fiore di Bosco marble floors with bronze inlay and dark slate borders along with textured silk upholstered walls. The original cornice from one of the apartments pairs with contemporary skirting and continues throughout the entire residence.

“We share a love of story-telling and a strong, shared belief that thoughtful, responsible and collaborative design can and should make people’s lives better.” ST

The existing classical proportions were maintained by placing the entertaining rooms across the front where the two original apartment’s principal rooms were located. These front rooms with their repeated windows and views across the gardens provide the perfect space for an open-plan cooking and dining area that could flow seamlessly through into a multi-tasking living/reception room. The owner is not only a good cook himself, but enjoys entertaining with a chef so a dramatic, commercial grade kitchen with dining area was a must.

The monolithic veined stone island acts as both a sculptural still life and a functional centerpiece creating an opportunity for interaction between the chef and diner along the extended breakfast bar. The kitchen is from the German manufacturer Eggersmann, with appliances from Gaggenau. The worktop, a natural quartzite sourced from Brazil, is clear of appliances, which are housed in concealed storage behind discreet sliding doors in place of a typical backsplash. The large capacity appliances and additional storage are also cleverly concealed. The kitchen’s sophisticated design allows it to both show and function well. The induction hob even has retractable ventilation to maintain the clean aesthetic lines.

The owner is an avid wine collector, requiring a beautiful solution for wine storage and display. A large internally lighted and temperature controlled 280 bottle wine storage unit was custom created and placed on the dining side of the room. The common wall between the two apartments couldn’t be moved due to the existing chimney flues but did allow for symmetrical openings on either side for passages between the dining room and the large reception room. The openings between these rooms emphasize the central feature of the space: the remaining chimney breast. This strong vertical plane, clad in Vals Stone and complete with a double-sided contemporary fireplace, adds function and focuses both rooms. The seamless flow of chevron wooden flooring with black slate borders and a bronze inlay ensures continuity from one space to another.

A key feature in the light-filled living/reception room is the large wall of bespoke designed cabinetry. As a central feature, the custom cabinetry displays exquisite detail. Bronze framed horsehair panels slide in front of warmly lit shelves with a polished plaster back panel. The sliding panels conceal/reveal the television and related equipment. Textured polished plaster covers the remaining walls. Contemporary furnishings upholstered in luxe fabrics gather on a custom rug to form the conversation area. The design group selected the very best of contemporary designed furniture and lighting for the residence.

The study provides a calm and serene workspace. Silk upholstered walls and a wall of bespoke designed cabinetry make it functional and high-style. Dark woods with bronze borders create a warm masculine feel. The chevron wood floor with black slate borders and bronze inlay really gives presence this smaller space. The bespoke designed desk with the leather detailing perfectly completes the look. You must be sure to check out the design group’s curated collection of contemporary home furnishings, lighting, and accessories on their website. They have a large selection of items like those used here in this home and much more.

The master bedroom in this Knightsbridge contemporary penthouse is a sublime dream. Clean lines and rich textures create a soft contemporary finish with rich tones contrasting with light neutrals. The upholstered paneled wall provides entry to the bath and dressing rooms on either side of the bed. Dark woods with bronze detailing form the custom bedside tables and the cabinetry. Coffered ceilings provide indirect lighting and conceal the drapery hardware out of site.

The bathrooms exercise subtle drama: characterful stone contrasts with modern ceramics from Armani/Roca with beautiful rose gold brassware accents. The sculptural tub is from Falpar.

The master bedroom closet/dressing area is fabulous and far larger than this photo shows. The design group had the space completed with back-lit glass panels and glass fronted doors on metal frames by Porro. Carefully planned lighting illuminates the functioning spaces. The stairs here actually provide access to the fire escape.

The quietly luxurious guest bedroom provides additional tranquil space. Silk moiré covers the walls with a silk rug on the floor. The guest en-suite bathroom and dressing area repeats the elements used in the master bedroom creating a unified boutique hotel feel.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

To see more residences completed by Staffan Tollgard Design Group, be sure to see:

Contemporary Design in a Period Gem

Knightsbridge Townhouse Renovation

Staffan Tollgard’s Knightsbridge Contemporary Penthouse

Staffan Tollgard Design Group offers an award-winning architectural interior design service for an international clientele. The group works creatively and collaboratively to create bold, contemporary interiors that are eminently livable. The group’s over 100 high-end residential projects provide innovative and creative solutions for their client’s lifestyle needs.

Interior Design: Staffan Tollgard Design Group

Photography: Richard Gooding

Thank you so much for reading along with me today! I hope you enjoyed the sophisticated design and understated luxury created within this Knightsbridge Contemporary penthouse. Let me hear from you in the comments!

Have a great day!

January 29, 2016
Park Avenue Streamlined Classic

New York-based architect and interior designer Garrow Kedigian spent five years searching for the right apartment. The moment he saw this one, he knew it was the one. A classic seven on Park Avenue on the fashionable Upper East Side. It wasn’t immediate. It needed much work, but its potential was clear. For our design inspiration today, we’re taking a look at the home the architect and designer created after six months of renovations and just in time to host 125 guests for a black-tie affair to celebrate his 40th birthday. This is the designer’s personal residence showcasing his streamlined Classic style.

Kedigian was born and grew up in Montreal, Canada. After completing his formal education at the McGill School of Architecture, he moved to Boston, MA where he worked for the renowned interior designer William Hodgins for six years. In 2000, he relocated to New York City and started his firm soon after that. His classically trained architectural background and time spent working with Hodgins, one of the Deans of American Interior Design, shaped his personal style which he describes as “Streamlined Classic.”

The apartment is located within one of the oldest remaining luxury residential buildings on Park Avenue, built in 1908. The Neoclassical building with Beaux-Arts detailing is full of prewar charm and includes gracious windows and high ceilings. It is a well maintained, full-service co-op with a total of twelve floors, his being the ninth. An additional detail of note, his L-shaped corner unit was occupied by Fred Astaire for twelve years during the late 1940s and early 1950s. What he liked most about the apartment were its balance and proper proportions. What he liked least was the fact that the place hadn’t been renovated since the 1950s and was in poor condition. He decided that was OK, though. He could envision what he wanted to do with the place, so he bought it and began the process of executing his vision.

STREAMLINED CLASSIC DESIGN INSPIRATION

Kedigian reconfigured some of the rooms a bit to create an entertaining enfilade along the south side of the apartment. The living room, dining/music room, and a library each open one to another for an open flow. A fireplace in the living room and the fireplace in the library punctuates each end. The designer paneled the walls here in the living room and added deep cove crown molding to accentuate the ceilings heights. Moldings also frame the ceiling beams. The walls finish with a high-gloss and each panel highlighted with a single gilded line around its perimeter. The fireplace mantle is French antique marble. Kedigian decided to use a Persian rug up-side-down to mute the tones.

Lee Jofa’s Spectrum Velvet with bullion trim covers the exceptional custom, tufted, upholstered banquet that anchors one corner.

Custom pillows made with a collection of fabrics from Holland and Sherry and Clarence House rest on the banquet. A digital blow-up of an Old Masters Renaissance fresco painting hangs behind it. Kedigian took a picture to a print shop and had them print it on canvas for him. A small set of side tables serve as a coffee table. At the end of the banquet, an 18th-century Dutch table holds a collection of mementos. A lantern purchased at Marche’ aux Puces suspends above.

An antique chair upholstered with a Hinson and Company Suede, along with one of the 19th-century dining chairs from the group that surrounds the table in the dining room gather with an English 19th-century pedestal table topped with an ebonized column lamp and other collectibles. An additional black frame added to the original frame enlarges the antique mirror above the mantle. A clever idea!

A bespoke designed sofa made by Albert Vitiello Decorators and upholstered in Chelsea Edition’s Diamonds anchors the room opposite the fireplace. Clarence House’s Neisha Crosland Fleuret Chevron upholsters the club chair. Both the living and adjoining music/dining room include multiple sets of French doors that open onto the buildings one and only Juliet Balcony.

A framed art project painted by Kedigian himself while in architecture school hangs above a vintage Tommy Parzinger campaign chair.

Fabric from Chelsea Editions with large-scale nail head trimming cover the walls in the dining/music room. The molding and wood trim is finished in ebony with a bit of brown. The display cabinets are original to the apartment. A velvet banquet trimmed with bullion fringe anchors one side of the dining area. The Mecox dining table with its gold finished wooden base gathers with 19th-century chairs upholstered in Schumacher’s Shock Wave.

The grand piano, a gift from Kedigian’s parents when he was young, stands on the opposite side of the room to leave a clear passage through. Its central location allows the music to filter through the entire enfilade of entertaining rooms. The passage way into the library was made a foot smaller than the passage from the living room. The difference creates a perspective and tricks the eye making the dining/music room appear deeper and the library appear further away.

Kedigian always wanted a library. To create one here, he converted a bedroom to complete the entertaining enfilade. He wanted to make sure it felt of contemporary and vibrant. After days of analyzing samples in the sunlight at various times of day, a custom palette of blue for the walls and a caramel/orange shade for the ceiling were created in a Fine Paints of Europe Brilliant finish. Embroidered fabric from Etro forms the curtains. A bergere covered in Pierre Frey’s Dune sits before the Mid-Century Modern desk. The lovely Louis XV fauteuil is dressed in its original blue velvet. The rug is custom from Stark. The painting above the fireplace is by Kedigian of an ocean scene in Maine.

Scalamandre’s Variegation Herringbone covers the sofa. Glant’s Liquid Leather gives the Neoclassical side chair a fresh look. Collections of old books and collectibles fill the library shelves except for one area where faux books mask a cabinet holding a television.

New crown and foot moldings line the main gallery hall along with custom storage, all painted in high-gloss black. Antelope-pattered carpet from Stark covers the floor.

In the master bedroom, a canopy bed holds center stage. To create a greater sense of height, the bed draperies, in Schumacher’s Malandros Stripe, attach directly to the bedroom ceiling above the French 19th-century antique bed.

The bedroom feels very much like New Orleans to me. This entire apartment feels familiar to me in that sense, being from the great Southern city originally myself. It’s very much like an apartment one would find in the French Quarter. Kedigian is of French descent in fact, and he sites his grandmother’s home in Paris as inspiration when putting together his apartment. So, of course they are similar and seem familiar.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more residences completed with streamlined Classic style, be sure to see:

Theatrical Design: Manhattan Loft Residence

Contemporary Classic Design: Sophie Paterson

GARROW KEDIGIAN’S STREAMLINED CLASSIC APARTMENT

This Park Avenue residence was featured in House Beautiful Magazine. Garrow has honed the classic elegance of this prewar apartment, while restoring it to a former glory era, and was able to simultaneously infuse a contemporary undertone. The designer established his own design firm in 2001. He presides over multiple interior design endeavors around the world. His distinctive style is rooted in tradition but characterized by a contemporary flair.

Architect and Interior Design: Garrow Kedigian

Photography provided by Garrow Kedigian: an assortment of photos by Fred Hatt, Christopher Sturman, and others.

House Beautiful Magazine

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed this tour of Garrow Kedigian’s personal Park Avenue residence with his signature streamlined classic design.

Have a great day!

January 22, 2016
Knightsbridge Townhouse Reinvention

For our design inspiration today, we have a Knightsbridge townhouse reinvention. This grand Georgian-style townhouse located in the heart of London’s fashionable and exclusive Knightsbridge across from Hyde Park is reimagined for modern life. This preservation protected residence is restored to its original splendor as a single family luxury home complete with fully modernized interiors after a meticulous redevelopment. The design firm Oro Bianco, with its team of RIBA architects and interior designers, completed the interior transformation with a special turn-key finish of the highest standards.

The residence provides elegant and comforting accommodations over seven floors with an elevator serving the principle levels. Additional living space made possible through a basement excavation greatly enhance the home. This allowed the home to go deeper, since property lines and city ordinances prohibit it from growing in any other direction. The excavation provided for the inclusion of a subterranean spa level that features an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and home gym. Light wells created through several floors allow natural light to flow throughout all levels.

Guests enter the home through the front gated gardens on the ground floor level here into the entrance hall. Mirrors and gloss define and expand the sense of space. The design team created a mirror on mirror vignette here which I love. The balancing of traditional and contemporary design begins at the front door. Note the contemporary lighting and art.

The entrance hall opens to the central lobby area giving way to the stairs and elevator, as well as to the study and formal dining room. The paneled mirror, a verre églomisé design on antique mirror glass, is a special work designed and made by Gorman Studios. Peter Gorman, founder of Vancouver’s Gorman Studios, pioneered many new techniques to create exquisite modern interpretations of chinoiserie, reverse glass painting, lacquered panels, and other fine art details. These designs are growing in demand as the push for customization and couture quality finishes continues to grow. The graceful curves of the French Rococo style chairs pair with the sleek lines of the modern lighting sconces.

HAND-CRAFTING THE WORLD’S MOST MAGNIFICENT PRIVATE PROPERTIES

The formal dining room is a dressed-up delight combining soft traditional design elements with edited contemporary design for a transitional effect. I love mirrored walls and declare them timeless, and adding that marble fireplace surround is pure genius. The molding and ceiling designs are classic, though interpreted with fresh designs. Ralph Lauren Home principally furnishes the home, complemented by bespoke designed British and Italian pieces.

The study features handsome bespoke lacquered wood designs inlaid with brass. The look is very smart and of sophisticated design. Custom carpets cover the dark oak timber floors. Note the glass portion of the ceiling forming part of the light well.

The powder room completes the ground floor. Mirror and marble with wood and brass accents give the small space maximum impact.

The first floor holds the formal reception room, as is the custom, with a terrace off the back. The room occupies the entire floor designed with contemporary classic style. Lacquer, mirror, bespoke woodwork, and custom designs complete the look. It is very Ralph Lauren in its effect. The lighting used in all the home is of bespoke design from America. The room serves for formal entertaining, but not too formal. A Ralph Lauren Duke bar positions ideally between the sitting area and the terrace. It looks like a perfect place for cocktail hour. The effect is all perfectly cosmopolitan and chic!

The lower ground floor holds the more informal family rooms. Here we have the informal family dining room located right off the kitchen. Everything is contemporary down on this level.

The Knightsbridge townhouse features a fully fitted Bulthaup custom kitchen with Gaggenau appliances. The wood finished island/breakfast bar really balances the look.

This level also holds the very comfortable media room. Fabric upholstered walls and deep sofas with lots of pillows provide the ultimate in casual comfort. The designers continued the exceptional bespoke joinery in here as well.

The master bedroom suite occupies the entire second floor. The space is a calm oasis of clean lines and transitional styling. The fabrics used throughout are Lizzo, Fox Linton. The drapes and soft furnishings were made by Emporio Interiors in Chelsea. Italian marble and patterned mirrors outfit the sleek master bathroom.

The remaining bedrooms and bathrooms are all up on the third and fourth floors. All are done very tastefully with classic contemporary styling with Italian marble bathrooms. The look is very International hotel chic. The lower ground level holds another bedroom and bath for staff with a separate side entrance into the home.

The basement excavation made it possible to add in this extra level of comforting amenities. Down here, a complete home spa and health center were created. The subterranean space includes a 49′ long swimming pool, which is quite impressive when you consider it was added beneath historic London. Iroquois indoor/outdoor wood and Italian slab marble make up much of this space. Bisazza tiles line the pool. This level also includes a gym, sauna, steam/wet room, and a bath. You can see the natural light flowing in though the light well. This is a super luxury addition to an already nice home.

The latest Fusion Home Automation System, Lutron lighting, and electronic blinds complete this Knightsbridge townhouse reinvention.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more London residences reinvented for modern life, be sure to see:

Classic Mayfair Penthouse: Oro Bianco

London Georgian Townhouse Renewal

KNIGHTSBRIDGE TOWNHOUSE REINVENTION

Luxury interior design studio Oro Bianco specializes in creating magnificent architectural interiors for international clients around the world. Founded in 2011 by award-winning architect Luigi Esposito, interior designer Stefania Mazzarini, and MD Killian Thomas Lynch, the multi-national team of RIBA architects and interior designers work on global projects for the luxury high-end interiors market.

The company has two distinct areas – Oro Bianco Studio, which creates bespoke luxury interiors around the world, and Oro Bianco Milano, which designs and produces our luxurious furniture and decorative lighting.

Their website includes a Home Products Page with beautiful furniture, lighting, and antiques.

Property Development: Fenton Whelan

Interior Architecture & Design: Oro Bianco Studio

Thanks so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed today’s Knightsbridge townhouse reinvention. I look forward to hearing from you in the comments! What do you think?

Have a great day!

January 18, 2016
Biscayne Bay Waterfront Mansion Redesign

A classic waterfront mansion located on Miami’s Biscayne Bay gets a spectacular redesign and expansion that maintains its architectural integrity while completing it with a clean, contemporary finish for modern luxury living. The stately picturesque look of this traditional 1940’s brick exterior set back formally beyond the property’s canopy of twelve grand oak trees, is the only thing that isn’t new with this home. It was this look and feel that the new owner most wanted when he first knocked on the door to make an offer to buy the home.

He was successful in obtaining the waterfront mansion and its picturesque setting, but the home’s state of disrepair delayed his moving in. Miami-based property developer Todd Michael Glaser came in to assess the damage and determined that a renovation of the existing structure was impossible. It would have to be rebuilt. The front facade remains but the project otherwise required the removal of the entire back two-thirds of the house and the gutting of the rest. The developer brought in architect Ralph Choeff and interior designer Charlotte Dunagan to collaborate on the home’s new design. The necessary rebuild also provided an opportunity to expand the dwelling, and so it was. The home expanded over 10,000 square-feet with new side wings added perfectly maintaining the homes symmetry and architectural harmony and ultimately creating the 18,000 square-foot mansion it now is.

WATERFRONT MANSION REDESIGN

The centrally located double-height entrance rotunda remains, though enhanced with the addition of a new coffered dome ceiling above. The elegant foyer features a gently winding staircase. Dunagan covered the steps in dark walnut and added a delicate wrought-iron balustrade.

The foyer opens to a spacious double-height, classic-contemporary living room. Plastered walls and detailed millwork combine perfectly with the clean lines of the contemporary furnishings. The room is bright and awash with natural light pouring in from the wall of windows and French doors along the back providing beautiful views of the water. The designer kept the colors subdued and monochromatic to allow the homeowners vibrant art to shine. This is a waterfront mansion after-all and the owner had requested spaces with relaxed elegance where the family could feel comfortable.

A pair of Belgian linen upholstered sofas and a pair of wing bergères define the sitting area gathered around a pair of slate-topped, black cocktail tables by Lars Bolander beneath a black wrought iron chandelier by Dessin Fournir.

In the dining room, a pair of bespoke walnut tables with sunbursts marquetry tops by Dessin Fournir group gather with a rare find of sixteen antique leather chairs from Randall Tysinger. A superb Napoleonic ebonized Bibliotheque, circa 1865, anchors the room, flanked with colorful works by the Colombian artist Fernando Botero featuring his over-sized, bloated figures. White linen drapes and shaded chandeliers by Carotto give the room a simple feel of understated elegance.

In the new family room, Dunagan created a coffered ceiling to mask the structural elements joining the new and existing parts of the house along with a pillared support at the pass-through into the kitchen. She gathered custom contemporary furnishings, upholstered with fabrics from Monica James, on a textured NIBA rug.

The light-filled transitional kitchen blends old and new. Traditional white painted, glass-fronted cabinetry gives the room an expansive feel. A custom milk glass and pewter hood above the stove adds visual interest. An oak island with marble countertop includes a breakfast bar. A banquette and table form additional eat-in areas. The designer upholstered the chairs and bar stools with fabric from Monica James.

“He was open to so much. His only specifications were traditional comfort and a two-story library where men could gather to play pool, watch a movie or have a cigar.” Dunagan said of the owner

A two-story library stands opposite a space for playing pool along with a full bar. There is also an automated theater screen. The hand-laid herringbone floors are quite handsome and compliment the wood paneling in the library well.

In addition to the full bar, another space was created to relax and enjoy a drink. A designated wine room holds 200 bottles of vintage wine in temperature controlled storage units in custom milled cabinetry. This rooms antique leather furnishings and warmer colors create a gentlemen’s club effect. At the back of the room, hidden doors provide access to a bay-windowed games room.

The master bedroom suite is a supremely comfortable space. Grasscloth wall-coverings by Phillip Jeffries covers the walls. The owner enjoys the spectacular view of the Miami cityscape from his bed with its custom tufted wool-flannel headboard. A pair of 1820’s burled walnut Biedermeier chests by Louis Philippe stand on either side of the bed. An armless settee and a pair of charcoal gray armchairs form a sitting area. They gather on the NIBA wool area rug. The master bedroom suite includes spacious separate bathrooms and dressing areas for each spouse. A luxury that cannot be overstated.

The project took eight months to complete from tear down to the creation of the owners dream luxury home. What does he think of his finished mansion? He is ecstatic with the timelessness of his charming sea-side home. It is easy to see why.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more iconic, restored mansions, be sure to see:

Modern Luxury Design: Greenwich Estate

Southern Classic Mansion: Historic Charleston

Biscayne Bay Waterfront Mansion

Since 2002, Charlotte Dunagan Design Group, one of the top interior design firms in South Florida, has specialized in high-end luxury residential projects. In 2016, the firm evolved into Dunagan Diverio Design Group, a team of discreet professionals with their focus on interiors and exteriors with a deeper, richer, more intuitive understanding of the client’s needs; to uncover the true objective driving the design of the home. Dunagan Diverio Design Group, believes in building meaningful relationships with their clients and approaching each project with a distinctive and personal process, with special attention to detail. Their mission is for every space to embody ‘timeless understated elegance.’

Development: Todd Michael Glaser

Architecture: Ralph Choeff Architect

Interior Design: Charlotte Dunagan- Dunagan Diverio Design Group

photography: Mark Surloff

Thank you so much for reading along with me. What do you think of this Biscayne Bay Waterfront Mansion Redesign? Let me hear from you in the comments.

Have a great day!

January 8, 2016
Fifth Avenue Classical Design

For our design inspiration today, we are taking a look at an elegant Fifth Avenue apartment located within a handsome prewar residential co-op building on New York’s Upper East Side. This residence serves as a pied-a-terre for a couple who wished to create for themselves a very special luxury home in the city. Their appreciation for classical design elements allowed for the creation of a home rich with architectural ornamentation and exquisite detail. These classical-inspired features include highly articulated ceilings and decorative wall treatments forming rooms with ordered and balanced compositions rendered in a subdued but sophisticated color palette. Bespoke designed custom furnishings and an array of period antiques combine with the owner’s significant collection of modern art in a seamless fusion of refined luxury.

New York-based architect John Murray, a noted master of the classical design tradition, created the three-bedroom residence by combining two original one-bedroom units. The relatively small 2,500 square-foot pied-a-terre doesn’t have the requirements of a year-round home, so space gave itself to design. The public rooms arrange as a series of enfilades with each room opening to one another creating a formal sense of progression. Ornate crown moldings designed as part of the paneled walls make the ceilings appear higher. Tall baseboards and chair rails placed low on the walls make the rooms seem proportionally taller. These and other such principles carry throughout the apartment expanding the volumes to their best proportions.

INSPIRING CLASSICAL DESIGN

New York-based interior design firm Cullman & Kravis brought together the homes furnishings and decorating details. In all their projects, the firm embraces a modern traditional design aesthetic.

By artfully mixing antiques of all periods and origins alongside contemporary works and bespoke designs, the results are always timeless and comfortable, just as they are here.

The living room’s paneling includes curved corners and other effects to create a graceful line around the room, as well as for the practical purpose of concealing various structural components. The design includes a highly stylized custom acanthus leaf molding that lines the room beneath the plaster cornice.

The fireplace features custom bronze work cast by P. E. Guerin. Its design has been integrated into the paneling of the south wall to create the rooms focal point. Note the gator leather with tack trim on the Klismos chairs. Hand painted and beaded silk forms the window draperies. Art by noted contemporary masters displays on the walls.

For the grand entrance into the apartment, a rotunda-shaped entry vestibule was created. The dome ceiling, highlighted with a stylized Greek key in gold, creates the perception of greater height. This space gives way to a rectangular gallery to one side and to a vaulted gallery down the center of the apartment leading to bedrooms.

A group of graphite drawings by Alan McCollum, 1989-1990 hang in a modern grid as per the artist’s instructions. To prevent any early notions that the place is period or overly formal, the design team installed simple art lighting in the vaulted ceiling.

Painted wood with leather panel insets ornamented with bronze stud work dress the library’s walls. The articulated ceiling incorporates a layering of banding that serves as a decorative organizer for the lighting. Corner details enhance the form of the cove ceiling.

How exquisite is this powder room? These are really quite glamorous interiors!

Here in the master bedroom, the custom plaster cornice features a repeated geometric design. Various geometric designs incorporate around the room; in the carpet, the glass panels of the very fabulous closet doors, and as trim along the bedding and draperies. The overall impression of the apartment is that it has always been here, and yet it is still very current. It is timeless. It is just as the couple wanted for their pied-a-terre.

That concludes our classical design inspiration for today, my friend. I hope you enjoyed Fifth Avenue Classical Design.

To see other homes complete by Cullman & Kravis be sure to see:

Venetian Waterfront Residence: Cullman & Kravis

Georgian Modern Traditional Elegance

Contemporary Traditional Design: Southern Mansion

Transitional Design Update: Park Avenue

Classical Design Inspiration

This residence is one of the beautiful projects featured in designer Elissa Cullman’s book The Detailed Interior: Decorating Up Close with Cullman & Kravis. Cullman & Kravis has a remarkable ability to see the whole picture and, at the same time, appreciate the smallest of its pieces and intricacies. Each of their rooms is a magnificent and elaborate tapestry—step back, and a stunning image emerges; look up close, and every stitch is perfectly aligned with its neighbor, every thread a mirror of a larger pattern. This focus on detail subtly influences every component of the residences they design, so that every room harmonizes with the architecture, the setting, the furniture, and the artwork. Hand-carved moldings subtly reflect the embroidery of a throw pillow. The form of an antique chandelier echoes the drape of the silk curtains. Complementary colors emerge in the needlework of a rug, the brushstroke of an abstract painting, the fresh flowers on a table. Each room appears as the quintessence of effortless grace and balance, while only the designers know the meticulous research and extraordinary passion that went into creating such a perfectly harmonious space. The Detailed Interior: Decorating Up Close with Cullman & Kravis reveals how the firm achieves this effect, and how readers can employ these details to endow their rooms with the same sense of elegance and poise.

Architecture: John B. Murray Architect

Interior Design: Cullman & Kravis

Photography: Durston Saylor

Thank you so much for reading along! Let me hear from you in the comments! What did you think of Classical Design in this Fifth Avenue pied-a-terre?

Have a great day!

December 30, 2015
Contemporary Mountain Retreat

For our design inspiration today, we are taking a look at a contemporary mountain retreat located in the ski resort town of Sun Valley, Idaho. This 12,000 square-foot vacation home is a modern day interpretation of Craftsman style by Idaho architect Michael Blash. The architecture design mixes traditional Craftsman elements, such as low pitched roofs and rafters, with modern horizontal roof lines and floor-to-ceiling windows for a contemporary effect. The residence lays out as three separate buildings over three floors, connected by glass-walled transitioning spaces with its exteriors composed of local stone, cedar, and steel built into the hillside. It’s positioning provides clear views both up and down the Valley and offers dramatic views of Bald Mountain, the areas prime ski destination.

To be clear, the owners of this new mountain home did not want it to be at all like what one typically thinks of a mountain home, nor did they want a western theme. There would be no antlers or Navajo rugs. Nor would there be anything rustic or even country or shabby chic. They had no interest in distressed woods or anything barn style either. Their new vacation home would be smart, chic, and of contemporary design. They called in the Chicago based interior designers James Dolenc and Thomas Riker of JamesThomas with a clear directive on the matter.

The designers kept the interiors quiet and neutral to allow the views outside the windows to shine, and not to distract from them. They brought the surroundings in by including lots of natural elements in the interior design, but in a most contemporary way. Their natural materials would be refined, not rustic or rugged. The mahogany and walnut used throughout to the create the wall paneling and the bespoke designed cabinetry is smooth and polished. Sleek!

CONTEMPORARY MOUNTAIN RETREAT DESIGN

James and Thomas ultimately negotiated with the owners for some balance to ground the home with its surroundings. The owners agreed to allow a few references to the West. The designers felt that it was important when one initially enters the home, that they be presented with a mix of contemporary design with a bit of Western reference as well. In the foyer, a large Equestrian painting by artist Ashley Collins hangs front and center. Below it, stands a handcrafted console composed of an elm tree trunk mounted upon a steel base by John Houshmand. The architect designed the lattice light fixture above the space to create the effect of walking through natural light.

In the living room, a wall of windows across the back provides stunning views of the mountainside. The polished stone fireplace wall, designed by the architect, separates the living and family rooms with its design repeated on both sides. In front of the windows, a pair of Holly Hunt chairs upholstered in pale blue wool create an intimate conversation area. The rest of the room’s furnishings gather on a rug from Tufenkian including the Donghia sofa, and a Troscan Leigh chaise and bench. A pair of onyx-topped coffee tables from Bradley Hughes and a pair of African cup stools from Christa create a bit of visual interest within the room. The designers balanced the modern lines and polished finishes with warmly upholstered furnishings and interesting pieces.

The family room is a more intimate, cozy space where everyone just hangs and watches television. The beams across the top are patented steel instead of the traditional rustic wood. Wide wool corduroy covers the bespoke designed upholstered sofas by JamesThomas. The Ellipse Chair by Modernica serves as a statement piece.

Timeless, polished design that charms with a nuanced mix of beauty, character, and innovation.

The dining room accommodates a few or as many as twelve. The bespoke designed dining table by JamesThomas consist of two square tables which, when apart, seats four each. The two combined with an additional leaf seats twelve. The dining chairs are by Holly Hunt. Above the table, a contemporary custom lighting fixture by Pagani Studio suspends. The Atelier Credenza by Morlen Sinoway, with candlesticks from Baker, sit beneath contemporary artworks from the home owner’s collection.

The open kitchen continues the style created in the adjoining public rooms. An L-shaped bar with a raised counter-top clad with White Beauty granite defines the outer perimeters. The bar stools surrounding it are from Berman Rosetti. The designers used a more subtle mocha granite for the center island and backsplash. To maintain continuity, the same mahogany used throughout the home forms the cabinets. The stainless-steel hood was custom created for the oversize Wolf cooktop.

The powder room in this home includes a custom-made concrete sink surrounded by a floating walnut vanity with a protective glass top and a marble back-splash. The sconces mounted on the mirror are from Fuse Electric and consist of a metal frame with black crystals surrounding the lights.

An elevator serves the home’s three floors. There is also a stunning steel and mahogany spiral staircase in the home’s north wing. A 20-foot chandelier designed by Charles Loomis suspends from the top down through the center of the spiral to dramatic effect.

The master bedroom includes a bespoke designed suede headboard that reaches the ceiling. On either side of the bed, the designers placed bespoke metal tables and storage cubes. Lamps by Baker center the side tables beneath a pair of swing-arm reading lamps. The owners prefer bare floors, so the designers simply placed runners on either side of the bed. At the foot of the bed, they placed a Nankin Bench by Christian Liaigre. The club chair and ottoman are by John Hutton for Holly Hunt. The look and feel of the room promote calm, which is most appropriate for a contemporary retreat.

The master bathroom makes the extra effort to earn the description “spa like” while remaining completely simple and almost minimalist in its design. The architect used the latticework for the ceiling design in here as he did in the foyer. Travertine covers the floors and portions of the walls. A custom concrete sink mounts on a floating vanity designed as a large single trough. In addition to the glass enclosed shower, a free-standing soaking tub by Waterworks stands in a corner boasting views of the nearby nature reserve. The bathroom opens to its own patio. The light above the tub is jGoodDesign.

The master bedroom’s 200 square-foot closet/dressing room organizes like a dream. The walnut used throughout the rest of the home forms the cabinetry, including the closets, drawers, and plenty of concealed storage areas. The designers bespoke designed the large suede upholstered ottomans. The drum light is from Stonegate Designs.

In addition to the kid’s bedrooms, the home includes a comfortable guest bedroom with en suite bathroom designed to feel like an all-inclusive hotel room.

The hallway leading from the parent’s room in one wing, across to the kid’s room in the opposite wing includes built-in benches and niches for displaying the owner’s art collection.

An inside patio room opens to a furnished lanai via glass walls that slide away to fully merge the indoors with the outdoor entertaining areas. One of the many outdoor features includes this giant chess board.

You can have your contemporary mountain retreat designed as a luxury home with all the familiar comforts you enjoy. You can have these things without any of the dated trappings of the old, rugged wild west, if you prefer that. Of course, if you want and enjoy rustic elements, that’s great too. Design and technology make it possible for you to have a choice. This contemporary mountain retreat redefines the western traditional design aesthetic. By incorporating contemporary elements, the design team created an ideal vacation home for this modern-day family.

“The most important thing in this house is what’s out the windows. We definitely didn’t want to distract from that.” Thomas Riker

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more contemporary retreats, be sure to see:

Firethorn: Contemporary Mountain Retreat

Contemporary Desert Retreat

Idaho Contemporary Mountain Retreat

James Thomas was founded in 2003. The Chicago-based interior design studio runs because of the vision, passion, and energy of ten very talented designers, a dedicated business manager, and their darling rescue pup, Teddy. To date, they have completed 400 design projects. A sense of effortless elegance has long been a James Thomas signature. They are known for colorful, textured spaces that are innately welcoming and always, in their own way, communicate timeless design elements such as warmth, generosity, and affection.

Interior Design: jamesthomaschicago.com

architecture: michaelblashandassociates.com

photography: Tim Brown

Thanks so much for reading along with me. I look forward to hearing from you in the comments!

Have a great day!

December 26, 2015
Classic Mayfair Penthouse: Oro Bianco

Our design inspiration for today comes from an elegant penthouse in central London’s exclusive Mayfair district. The classic Mayfair penthouse boasts excellent views of the city’s skyline including Green Park and Buckingham Palace. The new owners, an international family, purchased the 7,000 square-foot residence, located within a 1904 heritage protected Old Park Lane building, to establish for themselves a London base for when they were in the city. Luigi Esposito and his team at Oro Bianco Interior Design transformed the space into a luxury home where the family could both comfortable reside and entertain with great style.

The family asked the design team to restore the noble proportions of the main public rooms, and where possible, to extend those proportions into the more intimate family areas as well. The interior architecture had to be reconfigured a bit to create a home suitable for modern living, while also preserving and restoring the exquisite period architectural details. The design team was to create a home that was classic in its design, but completely contemporary in its function. The completed residence would also need to properly display their extensive collection of modern art, and perform a list of other special functions. The home was to be turn-key complete with everything in place including the linens and dishes. Note: The design house had just come together and this was their first project as a team.

CLASSIC MAYFAIR PENTHOUSE DESIGN

The classic Mayfair penthouse is designed to allow the foyer, entrance hall, drawing room, formal dining room, and living room to serve two functions. When the series of lacquered wood and glass double doors connecting them are open, they serve as grand entertaining space. The doors can also be closed to create more intimate areas where the family can relax together. Above, we see the foyer as it opens onto the entrance hall. The design team anchored the room with an ormolu-mounted Louis XIV commode, inlaid with tortoiseshell marquetry and a dazzling mirror above it.

A grand formal entrance hall sets the tone for the home’s glamorous interiors. Polished black and white marble floors shine as brilliantly as the lacquered doors. A pair of crystal chandeliers reflects forever in the large antique gilded mirror on the far wall. An ebonized and ormolu-mounted Louis XV-style marquetry desk in the Boulle technique centers this space, topped with an ink-well in the same style. The designers expertly restored the crown molding to its original splendor. Imposing sets of double doors give the room an air of grandness while allowing natural light to flow through into the rooms beyond.

Here we have the double volume drawing room. Paneled walls emphasize the room’s height and volume. Another fabulous large crystal chandelier illuminates the space. The colors are soft while the surfaces are smooth and reflective. Lead designer Luigi started his career in fashion and it really shows here. An antique c.1870 Hepplewhite secretaire bookcase serves as a focal point dividing the two seating arrangements. Luxurious silk and velvet cover the Soane sofas with skirts trimmed with bullion. Two layers of tailored curtains frame the sets of French doors that open to balconies.

The drawing room flows into the cozy library. Bespoke designed shelves and cabinetry frame a traditional fireplace mantle topped with a contemporary painting. The property, of course, features discretely managed complete automation and includes Lutron lighting, underfloor heating, motorized blinds and concealed speakers, along with all of the other amenities necessary for a modern luxury home. Nothing was allowed to impact the classical design features. The Bianco team worked very closely with the Conservation Department to ensure that they fully understood and approved their designs.

The formal dining room includes a bespoke hand-crafted table designed by the team and created by Linley; the woodworking company founded by the nephew of Queen Elizabeth II. Brazilian Mahogany, Amboyna, and American Walnut form the beautiful inlaid designs. It can seat as many as eighteen people comfortably under the glow of the crystal chandelier.

The powder room is just an exquisite jewel box of details.

The bedroom corridor features back-lit, hand-painted eglomise glass panels which give the impression of natural light streaming in from both sides. The series of translucent glass panels form an English Garden theme.

Blue is the client’s favorite color, and it serves as the primary color in the master bedroom. Blue silk covers the head and footboard of a Rosewood Simonetto bed. Bespoke designed silver-leaf damask covers the walls. Beaumont and Fletcher bespoke designed blue silk drapes, hand-embroidered with silver thread and Swarovski crystals dress the windows. The closets were custom made in Italy and installed on site. They were perfectly planned and finished with rich lacquered wood, inset with mirror panels. An antique Persian rug layers on the silk carpet. Even the desk chair features hand embroidery. Another beautiful crystal chandelier, sparkling like jewelry completes the room.

The master bathroom displays serious luxury detailing. The Pietra Dura floor includes a mosaic of over 30,000 pieces of semi-precious stones, such as amethyst, lapis lazuli, mother-of-pearl, and carnelian. The bespoke vanity, fabricated with Brazilian Mahogany, is inspired by traditional French furniture. All this rests beneath beautiful layers of crown molding above.

The home includes two guest bedrooms with en suite bathrooms finished out with as much care and attention to detail as the rest of the home.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

This was Oro Bianco Interior Design’s first official project as a team, and it was a big success. It firmly set the design group into a solid position. This project gave solid credibility to Luigi and his entire team of architects and designers. The home received plenty of press in London and Internationally. The luxury design has received endless praise and critical accolades.

“True craftsmanship defines us. Using the most specialist of traditional crafts from every corner of the world, we work alongside talented artists to create truly bespoke interiors by designing and producing joinery and wall panels, furniture, and lighting, pietre dure floors and breath-taking tapestries – true beauty with strong attention to detail.”

For more residences featuring Classic Design for modern living, be sure to see:

Knightsbridge Townhouse Reinvention

Fifth Avenue Classical Design

Oro Bianco’s Classic Mayfair Penthouse

Oro Bianco Interior Design, founded in 2011 by Luigi Esposito, Stefania Mazzarini and Killian Thomas Lynch, is a luxury design house once distinguished by its sole focus on London’s super-prime property market. Their initial decision to focus solely on super-prime property created an interior design powerhouse, ideally positioned to bring the best in luxury design to London’s super-prime property owners.

Today, Oro Bianco Studio specializes in creating magnificent architectural interiors for international clients around the world. The multi-national team of RIBA architects and interior designers work on global projects for the luxury high-end interiors market. The company includes Oro Bianco Milano, which designs and produces their luxurious furniture and decorative lighting.

Interior Design: Oro Bianco Studio

Photography: Barry Murphy

Press Release

thedesignawards.co.uk

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed this classic Mayfair penthouse with its architectural details paired with both traditional and contemporary furnishings and finishes. There was no shortage of inspiring interior design ideas packed into this one today!

Have a great day!

December 19, 2015
Boston Transitional Classic: Terrat Elms

Our design inspiration for today comes from a mid-nineteenth-century Bostonian Transitional Classic residence. The gracious 7,900 square-foot period home features classic architectural details with newly updated transitional interiors completed by Boston based interior design firm Terrat Elms.

Initially, the residence was rather grand and a bit cold. It had been well maintained. The home had undergone several additions and renovations through its many years, though much of its period details remained intact and in excellent condition. The interior architecture and the classic design details were mostly fine.

The new owners resided in a sleek, contemporary penthouse apartment in The Residences at the Ritz Carlton Towers in mid-town Boston with their infant. They became pregnant again and decided they needed a better suited child-friendly family home. That’s when they found this beautiful classic home and purchased it fully furnished. They now had two households of furniture and this stately home with formal interiors. All needed to be edited and merged in the best possible way to create a comfortable family home.

To work this out for them, they called on Terrat Elms, who designed their current Penthouse. The owners requested that they creatively reuse the furnishings they already had to complete the new home. The designers honored the classic architecture and enhanced many of the existing traditional features. A softer, more inviting effect was achieved by cleverly integrating contemporary styling elements. Interesting textiles and fresh colors merge with the expertly edited and updated furnishings and loads of intriguing new artwork. The interiors are now modernized in style, scale, and suitability for the family. Take a look!

In the spacious foyer, custom de Gournay wall-covering, hand-painted on charcoal paper, balances the formality of the marble floors. The designers centered the room with an Alessio Table by Formations beneath a Esterel chandelier from Pagani Studio. The fireplace is reworked into a more contemporary design. A Damien Hirst butterfly work hangs above it. A James Nares brushstroke painting maximizes the room’s visual effect.

In the living room, Phillip Jeffries grass-cloth wall-covering creates texture and depth. Shades of gray and ivory cover most of the upholstered furniture for a smart, chic look. Zimmer & Rohde satin with a contemporary design forms the window coverings. An abstract canvas by Jon Imber hangs over the sofa. Two works by John Baldessari also hang in here. A plum velvet bench by Christian Liaigre stands beneath a window. Rugs with luxe textured patterns cover the floors here and throughout the home.

In the dining room, the designers used a darker Phillip Jeffries tailored linen on the walls with a slight metallic finish which highlights the traditional molding and trim. The deep color allows the other colors in the room to really shine. A Warren Isensee painting hangs above the sleek, new Chesney fireplace mantle. The rug, table, and chairs came with the house and integrated well in the new design. The designers updated the chairs with Donghia’s Squiggly Hollywood on the backs, and Pollack’s Dottie on the fronts. A contemporary chandelier by Alison Berger suspends over the table. The room also includes a grouping of four A.R. Penck paintings.

A custom, laser-cut graphic stone back-splash gives the all-white kitchen a contemporary edge. The designers painted the center island a darker shade to create visual depth.

The glossy black butler’s pantry impresses as well as the kitchen. I really like the look created with this modern classic design.

Multiple pieces from the Ritz Penthouse fill the family gathering room including the dining table with orange mohair chairs from the Bright Group. They stand beneath a Flos chandelier by Gino Sarfatti. The Calvin sectional and ottoman also came from the apartment.

The only part of the house that wasn’t well maintained was its steel-and-glass conservatory, which they rebuilt. In the newly rebuilt conservatory, the designers created a great casual space with tumbled stone flooring and edited simplicity. B&B Italia lounge furniture and a Sutherland table surrounded with Holly Hunt chairs furnish the space.

Crown molding installed in the home’s oval office emphasizes the existing pale blue Venetian plaster ceiling and the Murano glass chandelier. The furnishings selected reflect the rooms oval shape.

Terrat Elms gave the powder room a moody glamorous effect. They painted the existing vanity black to tone down its traditional feel. A rock crystal framed mirror hangs over the vanity flanked by a pair of 1940’s sconces from Paris.

In the master bedroom, the designers covered the walls in a silver threaded grass-cloth from Phillip Jeffries. A bronze metallic striped fabric forms the window shades. A custom upholstered bed from the Ritz pairs with Thomas Pheasant for Baker’s Mondrian nightstands. A framed Heidi Whitman paper construction hangs above it. A B&B Italia swivel sofa anchors a corner.

The home includes a really comfortably guest suite.

The designers ultimately created a luxury home that is transitional classic in its design. They created an updated classic with a balanced blend of traditional architectural elements and contemporary detailing for a warm, welcoming home that is both elegant and suited for modern family life.

That concludes our design inspiration for today, my friend.

For more fabulous transitional design, be sure to see:

Elms Transitional Style: Intercontinental Boston

Transitional Interior Design: Gramercy Park

TRANSITIONAL CLASSIC DESIGN INSPIRATION

At Elms Interior design, (name updated since original posting) passion drives their interior design. If you can imagine it, they make it happen.

Elms Interior Design is a full-service interior design firm with a focus on creating distinctive homes that reflect their owners’ values and personality. The firm’s multi-disciplinary practice combines design, architecture, and craftsmanship to manage transformations of any complexity and scale. They have a network of talented partners includes leading architects, engineers, and craftspeople who share their dedication to exceptional, highly finished work.

Interior Design: Terrat Elms- Elms Interior Design

Photography: Michael J. Lee

Thank you so much for reading along with me. I hope you enjoyed this Bostonian Transitional Classic home! I look forward to hearing from you in the comments.

Have a great day!

December 14, 2015