Couture Launch Issue

COUTURE MAY 2026 | £7.00

QUIET LUXURY FOR THE DISCERNING READER £7.00

A conscious cashmere dream crafted for the Sky.

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MOEBIUS

Design to Evoke a Sense of Calm Refinement, geometry, style: Moebius is a striking leather artwork from the Pandora Collection by Marine Leather.

Inspired by the evocative design of Zen gardens – places rich in meaning and tradition, based on contemplation and mental well-being – it is designed to create spaces where the mind finds peace, the gaze wanders, and the soul is rediscovered.

Its identity stems from a simple yet sophisticated technique: a narrow strip of leather is guided with extreme precision along a continuous seam, creating a regular sequence of curves and turns. It is a meticulous and controlled process, in which the leather becomes both structure and design. The stitching follows the outline with precision, emphasising the linearity and lending the surface a sense of order and perfection.

Customisable in leathers and colours, with a vast range to choose from, it is versatile and suitable for both wall panelling, including ceilings, and for furniture and accessories.

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CONTENTS 24 28

EDITORIAL

A CLEARLY ARTICULATED VISION M/Y Al Reem by Bilgin Yachts

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DEFINING COUTURE: The highly skilled creation of custom-made, bespoke design.

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DRAMATIC YET DEEPLY CONTEXTUAL The Cotswold Family Estate

by Taylor Howes

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A CLASSICALLY CONTEMPORARY DESIGN MASTERCLASS O’Madeleine by Golden Yachts

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LONG ISLAND RESTRAINT & RESPECT Longwood by Brian W E

D E S I G N T H O U G H T F U L , L I V E A B L E S P A C E S

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Worthington & Associates

ARCHITECTURAL BALANCE & PERMANENCE Vale Garden Houses

+1 587 349 2843 INFO@AVIDINTERIORDESIGN.COM WWW.AVIDINTERIORDESIGN.COM

AVID COUTURE AD.indd 3

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Where Material Becomes Experience.

Leather Made For Aircraft www.aeristo.com

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It’s all one.

Project development. Engineering. Production. Installation.

Every stage connected, every detail aligned.

At F/YACHTING it’s all one. One team.

One process. One level of quality.

That’s how we set new standards at sea.

CONTENTS 70

The 20th Anniversary

design et al Accolade Awards Meet the finalists...

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SUPERYACHT INTERIOR DESIGN

Is the future clear?

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A QUIETLY RADICAL PROPOSTION

Bombardier Global XRS

by Shalini Misra Design

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AN ETHEREAL YET GROUNDED DESIGN SCHEME

Private Residences Jeddah

by Robert Angell International

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AN EXERCISE IN MATERIAL HONESTY

Montauk Residence

by Meyer Davis

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AN EXPRESSION OF TIMELESS LUXURY McKenzie Lake Residence by Avid Interior

Experience our passion for aviation excellence through a commitment to serving the VVIP and elite custom aircraft market with unmatched expertise and performance across a comprehensive suite of services.

Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) • Modifications & Upgrades Aircraft Cabin Interiors, Refurbishment and Completions • Engineering and Design Two centers of excellence to serve our elite clientele VIP Corporate and Large Cabin Business Jets 3250 Love Field Dr. Dallas, Texas, 75235 +1.214.351.6604 V/VVIP Narrow and Wide-bodied Private Jet Liners 3900 Chennault Parkway, Lake Charles, Louisiana +1.337.240.5577 Authorized Starlink Dealer ACJ Service Center Network Provider | ACJ SCN Boeing Business Jet Maintenance Provider & BBJ 777-200/300ER Completions Center

+1 337 240 5577

info@citadelaviation.com

www.citadelaviation.com

STAFF PUBLISHER Joanne Beedles DIGITAL PUBLISHER Richard Stockton SENIOR PUBLISHING MANAGER Caroline O’Gorman GROUP DESIGN AWARDS MANAGER Glenn Hughes EDITORIAL MANAGER Natalie Cowley PA TO PUBLISHER Lucie Bebe SENIOR EDITORIAL RESEARCHER Isobella Lichfield PUBLISHING MANAGER LUXE ET AL Devan Jones PUBLISHING MANAGER design et al Jodi Pickering PUBLISHING ASSISTANT Dominic Robinson SENIOR AWARDS COORDINATOR Ella Hibbert SENIOR AWARDS COORDINATOR Laurine Lalande AWARDS COORDINATOR Lottie Hill -Trevor GRAPHIC DESIGN Paul Jones ACCOUNTS Anthony Taylor PR CONSULTANT Catherine Lyne PUBLISHING: +44(0)1244 346 347 or email: publishing@design-et-al.com AWARDS: +44(0)1244 401 932 or email: awards@design-et-al.com ACCOUNTS: +44(0)20 3778 1121 or email: accounts@design-et-al.com Head Office: design et al, Watergate House, Chester CH1 2LF UK Annual subscriptions vary by location, please contact subscriptions@design-et-al.com stating your full address for a subscription quote. ISSN 1750-8851 The International Design & Architecture Awards™, The International Hotel & Property Awards™, The International Yacht & Aviation Awards™, The design et al Elite Awards™ are all trading styles and © design et al.

FOR THOSE WHO AP P RECIAT E T H E DIFFEREN C E

CONSERVATORIES | ORANGERIES | ROOFLIGHTS +44 (0)1476 564433

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AIR DE LALIQUE

LALIQUE BOUTIQUE 47 Conduit Street, London W1S 2YP 0207 292 0444 - shop.london.cs@lalique.fr

True design for living.

Taylor Howes Designs 49-51 Cheval Place, Knightsbridge, SW7 1EW taylorhowes.co.uk

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R O BERT ANG ELL DESIG N INT ERNAT IONAL 5 04 M E T R O P O L I TA N W H A R F, 70 WA P P I N G WA L L , LO N D O N , E 1 W 3 SS UNIT ED KING DOM + 4 4 ( 0 ) 2 0 4 5 41 94 5 4 STUD IO @ R O BE RTANG ELLDESIG NINT ERNAT IONAL.COM W W W. R O B E R TA N G E L L D E S I G N I N T E R N AT I O N A L . COM

INSPIRED | ORGANIC | POETRY The Spire Leaf Pendant (Falling Leaves) evokes a sense of movement, as if the pendants themselves were drifting down into your interiors. www.boydlighting.com

MULTI-AWARD WINNING HIGH END residential interior design studio, LEIVARS has been creating beautiful interiors with a dedicated passion for 18 years. Since our foundation the philosophy of LEIVARS has remained at the core of everything that we design: our interiors must be both intelligent and diverse within an artful mix of styles and the utmost attention to detail throughout. Transferring our client’s personalities into the everyday with excellence standing as a constant principal in all that we do as our signature.

From the transformation of individual rooms through to full home design, restoration and refurbishment, LEIVARS offer a wide and flexible range of services. Alongside our design expertise our services encompass comprehensive end-to-end project overseeing for renovations projects, bespoke joinery design, and a buying and styling service for our clients that just require our flair for finishing touches.

e: studio@leivars.com

t: + 44 (0)7929 934511

Instagram: leivars_interiors_studio

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Bohemian Crystal and its sparkling course

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The Art of Timeless Sophistication We provide timeless, yet timely designed interiors for illustrious, discreet and global clientèle. Our spaces are characterized by a harmonious combination of quiet refinement, a sophisticated palette and layered detailing.

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JOSEPH GILES Exquisite Functionalism

Ceramic Hardware Finishes. Tough, durable, ageless.

Unmatched resilience for the marine environment. josephgiles.com

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A NOTE FROM JOANNE A new publication for a new decade, I am excited to bring you for the first time this month: COUTURE - a magazine with its own identity, and a title that will combine quiet luxury and timeless design across all sectors from residential to superyacht and private aviation design.

We have selected some of the most inspirational projects by designers whose style is synonymous with timeless design, and whose implementation of that design style is impeccable. From private jets to superyachts, country homes in the Cotswolds, to glasshouses and Connecticut country estates, there is a mix of design styles and interpretations, yet all remain classical in their own distinct way.

So, you may ask why another magazine at this stage? Well, as we mark twenty years of design et al, I think it is time to go a step further and create a magazine that looks at all design sectors - as the way in which we live changes, so too

does what we, and indeed our clients, expect. People want symmetry and style in sync that spans across all areas of their life from their city and country home. to their yachts and planes. I am not talking about a signature style as such, but our style is so personalised that we want each space to reflect the way we live, our values and ideas, and there needs to be a cohesion between this in design terms. COUTURE will therefore meet this need and criteria. In this way it is unique as a publication; it is broad in its perspective but also select in its coverage, it offers timeless luxury without brash or bold statements and it will endeavour to bring you design schemes that will look just as wonderful and iconic in a decade’s time.

As we move into the third decade of design et al, COUTURE will sit alongside it, in its own area, in a newly carved out area of the market.

Enjoy Joanne

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A CLEARLY ARTICULATED VISION M/Y Al Reem by Bilgin Yachts

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here is a studied restraint that defines M/Y Al Reem, the 80-metre superyacht from Bilgin Yachts that eschews spectacle in favour of a quieter, more enduring expression of luxury. As the final hull in the acclaimed 263 series, she represents both the technical maturity of the platform and a refined recalibration of how interior architecture at sea can balance volume, light and material serenity.

At the core of the project lies a clearly articulated vision from the owner: a “serene oasis focused on calmness, purity, and relaxation.” This directive became the foundation for every spatial and material decision. Working in close collaboration, H2 Yacht Design and Unique Yacht Design, alongside the shipyard’s in-house specialists, have translated this ethos into an interior language that feels cohesive, architectural and deeply atmospheric.

Stepping aboard, the immediate impression is one of clarity. Where many yachts of this scale rely on contrast, deep tones and decorative layering, Al Reem adopts a far more measured palette.

Across her 1,758 GT interior volume, soft whites, warm creams and muted beiges establish a visual calm that amplifies natural light rather than competing with it. The effect is not minimalism in the reductive sense, but rather a carefully orchestrated softness that allows space itself to become the dominant material.

Material selection reinforces this sense of quiet sophistication. Warm matte timbers introduce a residential familiarity, tempering the yacht’s scale and grounding each space with an organic tactility. These are offset by polished stainless steel accents that catch shifting daylight, introducing moments of subtle reflection without visual noise.

Underfoot, silk carpets soften circulation, while supple cream leathers enhance the tactile continuity between furniture and architecture. Natural stone is used sparingly but deliberately, offering permanence and weight in contrast to the otherwise light composition. Together, these elements create an interior rhythm that is expansive yet intimate, refined yet emotionally warm.

From a design engineering perspective, Al Reem is also a study in spatial refinement.

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The brief required a significant increase in internal volume without compromising the sleek profile of the Bilgin 263 series.

Rather than exaggerating form, the solution lies in subtle elongation and softening of the superstructure, allowing additional space to be absorbed within a continuous, sculptural silhouette. The result is a yacht that feels more fluid and more composed, its architecture expressing movement even at rest.

External decks continue this dialogue between openness and precision.

Generous yet disciplined in layout, they support an uninterrupted indoor-outdoor relationship. A teak foredeck introduces warmth and tactility, its natural tone contrasting elegantly with the yacht’s metallic grey exterior surfaces. Refined detailing ensures that even functional zones maintain a strong visual coherence, reinforcing the sense that every surface has been considered as part of a wider compositional whole.

The Owner’s Deck stands as the defining interior gesture on board. By relocating the wheelhouse to the uppermost level, the forward section of the upper deck has been transformed into a full-beam private residence. This architectural reconfiguration creates a secluded sanctuary flooded with natural light, with uninterrupted forward views that heighten the sensation of openness at sea. Within this space, a restrained material palette of timber, stone and steel establishes continuity, while bespoke furnishings are designed to prioritise comfort without visual excess. Direct access to private exterior lounges further dissolves the boundary between interior and exterior, enabling a fluid transition between enclosed calm and open-air living.

Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of Al Reem’s interior is its discipline of omission. In the main salon, the absence of a traditional bar creates an uninterrupted visual axis that extends directly towards a bespoke outdoor waterfall. This decision allows architecture, rather than amenities, to lead the spatial narrative. Floor-to-ceiling glazing reinforces this transparency, dissolving boundaries between interior volume and the surrounding seascape.

Entertainment systems and functional

elements are discreetly concealed when not in use, preserving the purity of the visual field and maintaining a sense of uninterrupted calm.

Beyond its aesthetic clarity, Al Reem is conceived as a complete lifestyle environment. Six guest cabins accommodate up to twelve guests, supported by a crew of 24 to ensure seamless service. The beach club functions as a private wellness retreat, incorporating a sea-facing massage area, steam room and sauna integrated within a gym environment. A custom waterfall flows into the jacuzzi beyond, complemented by an open-air cinema, advanced entertainment systems and bespoke leisure installations. Acoustic engineering plays a critical role, with exceptional sound insulation reinforcing the sense of seclusion and tranquillity throughout.

For Bilgin Yachts, Al Reem also represents a demonstration of integrated craftsmanship at scale. With over 700 artisans contributing to its construction, and the majority of production completed in-house, the project benefits from a level of control that enables exceptional precision in material transitions and detailing. This integration ensures that the interior design vision is not diluted through execution, but rather refined through it.

Performance remains integral to the project’s identity. Twin MTU engines deliver a top speed of 19 knots, while a transoceanic range exceeding 5,000 nautical miles ensures long-range capability. Yet even within this engineering framework, the interior remains resolutely focused on atmosphere, comfort and sensory balance.

Ultimately, M/Y Al Reem is defined by its composure. It is an interior that resists excess in favour of precision, using light, proportion and material restraint to shape a quietly powerful onboard experience.

In doing so, it articulates a clear design position: that the most compelling environments are not those that demand attention, but those that sustain it through clarity, coherence and calm.

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DEFINING COUTURE: The highly skilled creation of custom made, bespoke design.

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outure, it is a term synonymous with fashion, often with the word “haute” placed in front that we are familiar with when discussing catwalk collections and individual bespoke pieces that sit outside the ready to wear collections. However, the literal interpretation refers to custom-made, bespoke, highly skilled craftsmanship in design, and therefore I think it is an apt name for a title that will celebrate just that.

As you will have gathered from our original publication launched twenty years ago, design et al, quite literally interpreted as ‘design and all it encompasses’, I am a fan of broad titles, that neither pin point or place a title ‘in a box’ or ‘category’. I believe design is an ever-evolving, vast spectrum of ideas and philosophies that come together, and we as publishers need to promote this, celebrate it, share it.

Couture will from this point sit outside the sphere of other titles in the design publishing sector; it will look seriously and strategically at the very pinnacle of global design in the highend residential, hospitality, superyacht and private aviation

sectors. It will predict, rather than merely report, it will lead in an ever-evolving design industry, and it will bring a global elite sector together in a way no other platform has done before.

In today’s ever-changing world, where technological advancements and aesthetics work hand in hand, priorities about how we live and where we live are changing. So too are our feelings and thoughts on life, our values and the world as a broader, and at the same time smaller place, continue to evolve, it is key that we look at design and life from a different perspective - engaging all aspects rather than focusing solely on one area.

We are excited to embark on this journey with you as we move towards a new decade in our evolutionary journey. A journey which we are on together. So, in simple terms, to define Couture would perhaps be to place it in a category, something it is too vast and broad to identify with. COUTURE the magazine, is the title for the next decade, a forward-thinking title, as individual as those who are and will be part of it over the coming years.

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DRAMATIC YET DEEPLY CONTEXTUAL The Cotswold Family Estate by Taylor Howes

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et deep within 260 acres of Oxfordshire countryside, the Cotswold Family Estate is a project defined not by excess, but by restraint, material honesty and an extraordinary sensitivity to place.

Conceived as an 18,000 square foot retreat for a British family of five, the house occupies a rare position within contemporary residential design: architecturally ambitious yet profoundly grounded, monumental in scale yet intimate in atmosphere.

fibres, natural linens and fossilised stone create an interior language rooted in texture and permanence. Straw marquetry sits alongside raw stone surfaces, while tactile finishes soften the building’s architectural scale. The palette draws directly from the muted tones of the surrounding countryside, allowing the landscape to flow visually into the home through expansive ten-metre-high windows framing uninterrupted views across the estate.

Designed by Richard Parr Associates and granted the exceptional designation of a ‘Building of Unique Architectural Merit’, the property immediately distinguishes itself through its remarkable silhouette.

Two connected wings unfold beneath what is believed to be one of the largest domestic thatched roofs in Europe, spanning approximately 1,400 square metres. The effect is both dramatic and deeply contextual, allowing the building to settle into the rolling landscape with an almost ancient permanence.

This connection between interior and environment is central to the project’s success. The house never feels imposed upon the land; rather, it appears to emerge from it. Light shifts gently across textured surfaces throughout the day, reinforcing the sense that the interiors are in constant dialogue with the surrounding landscape.

For London-based studio Taylor Howes, the challenge was never to compete with the architecture, but to respond to it with quiet confidence. Under the direction of founder Karen Howes and Head of Design Jane Landino, the interiors were shaped through a nuanced layering of texture, craftsmanship and bespoke detailing, creating spaces that feel instinctively connected to their surroundings.

The clients envisioned a relaxed, barn-inspired home influenced by the atmosphere of African lodges and designed to house their extensive collection of African art. Yet rather than leaning into overt thematic references, the studio approached the brief with remarkable subtlety. The interiors evoke warmth and tactility through natural materials and carefully calibrated proportions, allowing the home’s narrative to emerge organically.

Throughout the property, authenticity became the guiding principle. No synthetic materials were used anywhere within the project. Instead, rich timbers, woven

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Bespoke craftsmanship sits at the heart of the scheme. The clients, passionate supporters of local artisans and makers, collaborated closely with Taylor Howes to commission furniture, artworks and finishes that would bring individuality and emotional resonance to the home.

Each piece was conceived not simply as decoration, but as part of a wider narrative about family, place and permanence.

Among the project’s most striking interventions is a monumental five-metre sculpted entrance wall by French artist Etienne Moyat. Inspired by the rhythm of rolling hay fields, the work introduces an immediate sense of movement and artistry upon arrival, functioning as both sculpture and architectural gesture.

Elsewhere, a mirrored sculpture sourced from the flea markets of Paris introduces a layer of sculptural elegance while subtly referencing sustainability and recontextualisation.

Anchoring one of the principal living spaces is a five-metre bespoke handcarved table by Silverlining Furniture, a piece that perfectly encapsulates the project’s commitment to craftsmanship and material presence. Substantial yet refined, it becomes both a functional

object and a centrepiece around which family life unfolds.

The creative process itself became integral to the home’s identity. Research and sourcing trips to Paris and Milan with the clients informed many of the project’s final layers, introducing European influences rooted in artisanal quality and collectible design. For Jane Landino, these collaborative journeys became one of the most rewarding aspects of the commission, allowing the project to evolve naturally through shared references, discoveries and conversations.

That spirit of collaboration continues today, more than six years after completion, with Taylor Howes still working closely with the family to source distinctive additions and implement subtle seasonal updates throughout the home. It speaks not only to the enduring nature of the design, but to the deeply personal relationship between designer, client and place.

What ultimately distinguishes the Cotswold Family Estate is its remarkable sense of authenticity. Despite being a contemporary new build, the house feels entirely settled within its environment, as though shaped over decades rather than years. Nothing appears overly polished or artificially composed. Instead, every material, object and architectural gesture has been selected with longevity in mind, allowing the property to weather gracefully into the landscape that inspired it.

In an era increasingly drawn to spectacle, Taylor Howes has created something far more enduring: a home of substance, atmosphere and narrative depth, where architecture, craftsmanship and landscape exist in complete harmony.

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A CLASSICALLY CONTEMPORARY DESIGN MASTERCLASS O’Madeleine by Golden Yachts

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elivered in June 2025 by Golden Yachts, O’Madeleine stands as a considered exploration of contemporary yacht design, where architectural clarity and artisanal depth are held in deliberate equilibrium.

Far from a conventional addition to the upper tier of modern yachting, she reads as a disciplined collaboration between vision and execution – shaped externally

by Studio Vafiadis and realised internally through the refined sensibility of designer Alessandro Massari. The result is a vessel that resists spectacle in favour of precision, material intelligence, and spatial rhythm.

From the exterior, O’Madeleine is defined by elongated lines and sculptural recesses, a silhouette that privileges proportion over flourish. Yet it is within her interiors that the narrative deepens into something more tactile and atmospheric. The design language draws a quiet tension between Nordic restraint and Mediterranean warmth, expressed through a palette that is at once controlled and sensorial. Oak, straw marquetry, stingray leather, and softly veined stone establish a layered foundation where each surface contributes to a broader material dialogue rather than competing for attention.

The main saloon sets the tone with an emphasis on nuance over declaration.

Cabinetry, meticulously handcrafted in straw marquetry and galuchat leather, sits beneath expanses of Cremo Italia stone, grounding the space in a sense of permanence. At its centre, a dining table appears almost suspended – its bronze-lacquered base engineered to create visual levity, supporting a backlit crystal agate surface that emits a subdued internal glow. The effect is one of controlled contrast: weight and lightness, opacity and luminosity, structure and softness held in continuous balance.

Throughout the yacht, materiality is used to articulate spatial experience. Leatherfinished stone reveals natural veining across bulkheads, lending depth without visual density. In guest accommodation, White Carrara marble establishes a serene continuity, while the master suite introduces Calacatta Violet as a more expressive gesture – still restrained, yet undeniably present. Even the day heads are treated with sculptural intent, where Rouge de Roi marble sinks are carved as

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standalone objects rather than purely functional elements. Across these spaces, textiles temper the architectural clarity: silk hand-knotted rugs anchor communal areas, wool carpets introduce subtle tactility to private cabins, and Fortuny cushions offer a quiet reference to Venetian textile heritage.

Lighting is conceived not as an accessory but as an architectural system in its own right. Six programmable scenes allow the yacht’s atmosphere to shift seamlessly from crisp daylight articulation to softened evening intimacy. Recessed ceiling structures, often backlit to mimic skylights, extend vertical perception and reinforce a continuous dialogue with the exterior environment. Nowhere is this more evident than in the central staircase – a sculptural spine that wraps around the lift core, animated by Murano glass elements that evoke shoals of fish in motion. It functions simultaneously as circulation, installation, and spatial punctuation.

Furniture throughout O’Madeleine is largely bespoke, developed in collaboration with Italian ateliers to ensure material coherence across every deck. In the upper family saloon, an EDRA polyhedral sofa with reclining elements introduces a more relaxed counterpoint, designed for immersive cinema experiences. Nearby, a coffee table composed of raw wood root and patinated brass blurs the boundary between functional object and sculptural artefact. Bars across the yacht extend this exploration further, particularly the upper deck installation – a monolithic “stone cave” carved in curved marble, demanding advanced fabrication techniques and exceptional structural coordination.

Exterior spaces maintain the same design discipline, extending the interior language into open-air living. Custom teak and travertine furnishings are complemented by curated pieces from Paola Lenti, Tribù, and Kettal, ensuring continuity without uniformity. The relationship between inside and outside is carefully calibrated, allowing transitions that feel fluid rather than abrupt.

Perhaps the most expressive spatial departure is the beach club, conceived as a hybridised “beach house” rather than a

purely recreational zone. Here, wellness, leisure, and utility converge without hierarchy. A lounge, bar, hammam, and treatment spaces coexist alongside a discreetly integrated garage, where jet skis are deliberately displayed as part of the visual composition. A glass-framed pool edged in mirror-polished stainless steel anchors the space, capturing shifting reflections of sea and sky to dissolve the boundary between built form and environment.

Adaptability underpins much of the yacht’s architectural thinking. The upper-deck veranda, housed beneath a vast skylight, transitions effortlessly between open-air lounge, enclosed gym, cinema, or social space. This fluidity reflects a broader evolution in onboard living, where spatial identity is no longer fixed but responsive. Accommodation follows the same principle: six cabins, including a full-beam master suite, are designed as private sanctuaries where panoramic glazing erases the horizon while preserving seclusion.

Underlying this visual and spatial refinement is a high degree of technical orchestration. Cantilevered structures, integrated lighting systems, and marbleclad volumes required close collaboration between designers, engineers, and artisans. Golden Yachts’ role is evident in this balance of ambition and execution, enabling material experimentation while maintaining structural clarity.

From eggshell-finished surfaces to teak-detailed exterior rails designed for tactile engagement, every detail reflects a commitment to coherence rather than excess.

Ultimately, O’Madeleine is defined not by singular statements but by relationships – between material and light, interior and exterior, permanence and movement. Full-height glazing ensures a continuous presence of sea and horizon, while reflective surfaces subtly extend spatial perception beyond the vessel itself. Luxury here is not declared; it is composed, layered, and carefully calibrated – a continuous dialogue between craftsmanship, environment, and experience.

Photography ©Guillaume Plisson.

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LONG ISLAND RESTRAINT & RESPECT Longwood by Brian Worthington & Associates

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et within the storied landscape of Old Brookville on Long Island’s Gold Coast, Longwood stands as a quietly commanding example of early 20th-century American country house architecture re-imagined for contemporary living. Originally constructed for the Taft family, the residence carries the weight of history with ease, its proportions and detailing speaking to a period of architectural confidence that demanded an equally considered interior response.

The 2015 restoration and renovation

by Brian Worthington & Associates, in collaboration with Shawn Leonard Architects, has ensured that legacy is not only preserved but refined into a cohesive, immersive whole.

From the outset, the design intent was rooted in restraint and respect. Rather than imposing a singular stylistic narrative, the interiors were conceived as a quiet counterpoint to the architecture and its natural surroundings. The palette is deliberately monochromatic, allowing light, scale and texture to carry the composition. Cashmere wall coverings soften the architecture’s inherent formality, introducing a tactile depth that reads as understated luxury rather than overt display. Throughout, the guiding philosophy is one of harmony – between old and new, between British modern art and the refined language of 18th- and early 19th-century antiques.

A defining characteristic of Longwood is its remarkable collection of furnishings, with approximately 95% sourced as antique or vintage pieces from the UK and France. This approach anchors the interiors in authenticity and provenance, while also introducing a layered visual rhythm that evolves from room to room.

Pieces sourced through esteemed ateliers and suppliers such as George Smith, Loro Piana, Colefax & Fowler, and the John Fowler Antiques Department contribute to a richly nuanced material palette. Each object, whether upholstered seating, lighting or decorative furnishing, has been selected not as a statement in isolation but as part of a carefully orchestrated whole.

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Spatially, the interiors are defined by a clarity of proportion that allows the architecture to breathe. The drawing room and dining room, in particular, are conceived as focal points of experience, their orientation subtly reinforcing the relationship between interior life and the surrounding landscape. From these principal spaces, views extend outward across the grounds, culminating in a man-made pond positioned below the lower rear lawn. Recommended by the design team and ultimately embraced by the client, this water feature has become a defining element of the estate. It acts as a visual anchor, reflecting sky and garden alike, and reinforcing the dialogue between built form and nature.

This connection to the exterior environment is one of Longwood’s most compelling achievements. Rather than treating the landscape as backdrop, the design integrates it as an active participant in the architectural narrative.

The interiors are calibrated to respond to shifting light, seasonal change and distant views, ensuring that the experience of the house is never static. There is a palpable sense of continuity between inside and out, a quality that lends the property its enduring sense of calm.

Craftsmanship plays a central role in achieving this effect. European artisans were engaged to execute French polishing and the meticulous restoration of significant antique furniture, ensuring that every surface retains its integrity while meeting the demands of contemporary use. Bespoke curtain making further refines the interiors, with drapery treated not as ornamentation but as architectural soft structure – modulating acoustics, framing views and enhancing the overall sense of enclosure.

The success of Longwood lies in its disciplined restraint and the clarity of its vision. There is no excess, no competing gesture for attention. Instead, the interiors are guided by an understanding that true luxury resides in proportion, material honesty and spatial coherence. Period

detailing is present but never overstated, offering subtle reference rather than historical imitation. This balance allows the house to function as both a family residence and a carefully composed architectural experience.

Ultimately, the project reflects a rare alignment between designer, architect and client. With complete creative control over a turnkey installation, the design team curated every element—from furniture and textiles to books, artworks and accessories – ensuring absolute coherence across the entire estate. It is this level of authorship, combined with an open-minded client and exceptional craftsmanship, that elevates Longwood beyond restoration into something more enduring.

Within the wider context of Long Island’s historic estates, Longwood distinguishes itself not through grandeur alone, but through its measured sophistication. It is a residence that understands its past while quietly asserting its present – a study in equilibrium where architecture, interior and landscape exist in seamless conversation.

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ARCHITECTURAL BALANCE & PERMANENCE Vale Garden Houses

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et within the verdant landscape of the Channel Islands, this remarkable private estate project by Vale Garden Houses demonstrates the enduring power of classical architecture when interpreted through exceptional craftsmanship and a deeply considered approach to light, proportion and atmosphere. Conceived as a leisure retreat within the grounds of a magnificent residence, the scheme extends far beyond a singular pavilion, instead forming an interconnected collection of glazed structures that elevate both the architecture and the experience of the estate itself.

At the heart of the project lies a grand entertaining pavilion overlooking the swimming pool – a composition rooted in classical symmetry and inspired by the restrained elegance of Italian architecture.

Designed around a central domed dining space flanked by two balanced wings, the building was envisioned as a destination for entertaining, relaxation and yearround enjoyment. One wing houses an intimate bar area, while the opposite side offers a quieter lounge setting, creating a seamless flow between conviviality and retreat.

The architectural language is one of balance and permanence. Carefully ordered façades open elegantly onto the terraced gardens, while the facetted central volume rises beneath a leadcovered dome crowned with a lantern, becoming an unmistakable focal point across the estate. Classical detailing continues through parapet urns, clerestory glazing and intricate timber joinery, all of which contribute to a sense of quiet grandeur rather than overt opulence.

While monumental Italian buildings served as a conceptual reference point, the execution remains deeply contextual.

Neutral, earthy tones and warm natural materials were selected to harmonise with the existing residence and surrounding landscape, allowing the structure to feel entirely at home within its environment.

The result is a building that possesses

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presence without dominance — a pavilion that enhances the estate rather than competing with it.

The interior atmosphere is defined not by excess, but by light. Throughout the wider project, Vale Garden Houses explored how glazed architecture can transform the quality of everyday living.

A long glazed corridor links the pavilion to the main house, originally intended as a space for cultivating plants before evolving into a more classically dressed gallery-like transition. Elsewhere on the estate, the company also designed and constructed two orangeries – one serving as a dining room, the other as a sitting room – alongside a dramatic kitchen rooflight positioned above the central island. A freestanding covered seating area at the end of the pool, complete with an ogee leaded roof, further enriches the experience of outdoor living.

Together, these elements form a carefully orchestrated dialogue between architecture, landscape and natural light.

Each structure captures shifting daylight throughout the seasons, reinforcing a connection to the outdoors while offering shelter and comfort in all weather conditions. The effect is immersive yet calming – spaces that encourage lingering conversation, quiet reflection and effortless entertaining.

The project also exemplifies the enduring value of artisan skill in contemporary luxury design. Every detail was executed by specialist craftspeople, from the delicate timber joinery that defines the clerestory interiors to the precision metalwork forming the open loggia. Particular attention was given to the leadwork, with skilled artisans painstakingly dressing both the central dome and ogee roof by hand – a process requiring immense patience, technical knowledge and artistry.

Such craftsmanship is central to the success of the scheme. Rather than relying on decorative excess, the design derives its richness from material

integrity, proportion and detail. The facetted central dining space, in particular, captures this beautifully.

Beneath the lantern-topped dome, light filters through the clerestory glazing to illuminate the intricate joinery, creating an atmosphere that feels simultaneously intimate and ceremonial.

More than a decade after completion, the project remains a compelling example of timeless architectural design. Created as a legacy for future generations, it embodies a philosophy increasingly valued within the highest levels of residential design: that true luxury lies not in trenddriven statements, but in permanence, craftsmanship and the emotional quality of space.

For Vale Garden Houses, the project stands as a celebration of what glazed architecture can achieve when approached with artistry, technical mastery and architectural sensitivity. It is not merely a leisure building within an estate, but an immersive environment designed around beauty, light and the rituals of gathering – a contemporary classic intended to be enjoyed for generations to come.

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COUTURE UNITES THOSE CHANGING THE FACE OF THE PLANET. COUTURE BRINGS TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME SOME OF THE WORLD’S LEADING NAMES IN DESIGN AT A GLOBAL LEVEL, TO COMPETE IN THE ACCOLADE AWARDS - AN INVITATION ONLY DESIGN COMPETITION. THEIR WORK AS AWARD-WINNING DESIGNERS RECOGNISES THE IMPORTANCE OF DESIGN IN AN EVER-EVOLVING WORLD. THE SCOPE AND RANGE OF THEIR WORK IS AWE-INSPIRING, AND THE STORIES BEHIND IT FASCINATING. OVER THE COURSE OF THE NEXT FEW ISSUES WE WILL DELVE INTO THIS FURTHER. FOR TODAY HOWEVER WE BRING YOU THE FINALISTS, THEIR WORK AND THEIR WORDS.

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Todd Anthony design

Photography: François Gagne

Portland Maine Residence “Winning a design et al award has been a deeply meaningful milestone in my career, both personally and for our entire team at Todd Anthony Design.

As a previous winner, the recognition affirmed our commitment to thoughtful design and the pursuit of excellence across every project we undertake. It has elevated our visibility within the international design community and reinforced the trust our clients place in us. Most importantly, it has been a shared achievement— one that celebrates the passion, creativity, and dedication of our entire studio, inspiring us to continue pushing boundaries and refining our craft. “

Set along the rugged coastline of Portland, Maine, this 19thcentury family residence underwent a meticulous three-year transformation led by Todd Anthony Design. The project sought to honor the home’s historic character while introducing a refined architectural language suited to contemporary coastal living.

The renovation encompassed a complete reimagining of both the residence and its surrounding grounds. A newly conceived landscape and hardscape plan establishes a graceful dialogue between the house and the natural setting, culminating in a dramatic true infinity pool overlooking the property’s coastal horizon. Integrated seamlessly into the design, a spa hot tub offers a tranquil retreat while reinforcing the project’s emphasis on leisure and understated luxury.

At the front elevation, the estate was thoughtfully expanded with the addition of a carriage house, designed to complement the architectural heritage of the original structure. The arrival sequence was equally elevated through the installation of a heated Belgian block driveway and courtyard—an elegant yet practical feature that ensures year-round accessibility while reinforcing the property’s timeless New England character The result is a residence that balances preservation and innovation: a historic coastal home renewed with clarity, craftsmanship, and a sense of enduring sophistication.

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Sarah Z Design

Photography: Craig Denis Creative LLC

The Palace Project In reimagining a residence within Florida’s Bal Harbour, the client’s vision was to embrace biophilic design, infusing the interiors with nature’s colours and textures to create a sanctuary that nurtures both wellbeing and delight. The brief called for a dynamic, visually engaging environment where every surface and “It is truly an honor to be detail would resonate with the organic beauty of the outdoors. recognized multiple times over an interior that champions nature and client wellbeing. the years as an international award winner by Design et al.

Schuessler Being acknowledged for the hard work, dedication, and Sarah Z Designs has transformed a waterfront condo into passion poured into these a dynamic yet elegant biophilic sanctuary, blending natural projects means so much to us. elements with a refined contemporary aesthetic. The design We sincerely appreciate the concept centres on creating a luxurious yet liveable atmosphere, time and effort Design et al where deep blues, sandy beiges, and warm metallic accents invests in organizing the gala provide balance and sophistication. and creating such wonderful networking opportunities, where professionals can connect and Bellini celebrate our shared successes.”

Sarah Z Designs has created a stunning beachfront sanctuary, transforming a condominium into an elegant yet highly functional retreat that seamlessly integrates biophilic design elements.

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding coastal landscape, the design incorporates soft neutral tones, organic materials, and a carefully curated selection of furnishings to enhance both comfort and livability.

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Alex Kravetz Design

‘’Receiving recognition from the Design Et Al 20th Anniversary Accolade Awards is profoundly meaningful to me, because these awards have marked key moments in our journey over the years — not as a destination, but as a reminder that consistency, integrity, and craft still matter.

Each win has felt significant not simply for the trophy, but for what it represents: the quiet hours of refinement, the relentless problem-solving, and the shared belief that timeless elegance never goes out of style.

We’ve always stayed true to our philosophy of timeless elegance, and to the idea that the most memorable spaces come from multicultural layering — the mix of place, heritage, craft and modern life. And I have to say, this isn’t something you do alone. I’m sharing this with a highly dedicated team who put everything into the work, and with clients and partners who trust us to create something special. I’m genuinely grateful.’’

The Landmark London The renovation of the Winter Garden at a landmark location is a major project that aims to transform the space into one of the grandest and most impressive in London. Drawing inspiration from renowned glasshouses and grand hotels around the world, such as the Palm House at Kew Gardens, the Orangerie at Syon House, and Longwood, the Winter Garden boasts one of the largest atriums in Europe, making it a truly awe-inspiring space.

One of the most exciting additions to the Winter Garden is the creation of a dedicated Champagne Bar. This bar is designed to be a destination in its own right, offering a range of high-quality champagnes and other beverages throughout the day. The bar is also a flexible space that can be used for private functions, making it the perfect venue for special events and celebrations.

With its large size and versatility, the bar can accommodate a wide range of guests, from small groups to large parties, and is expected to be a significant source of additional attraction for the Winter Garden.

The colour palette used in the renovation takes inspiration from peacocks and palm courts, and features a vibrant mix of blues, greens, and gold. These colours evoke feelings of luxury, nature, and tranquillity, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and relaxed.

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Shalini Misra

Photography: Mel Yates

London Family Home

“It has been a privilege to receive several design et al awards over the years. It is an honour to be recognised this way, for me personally, for my team and also for our clients who understand the value of awards of this calibre.”

A double-fronted Victorian villa in north London, transformed across five floors without extension. The design works through spatial manipulation rather than addition: ceiling heights are adjusted room by room, volumes are divided by sliding screens, and a four-sided mezzanine void cut into the upper-ground floor creates two distinct zones from a single vast space. The original architecture is both respected and reframed. Ornate plasterwork cornicing and ceiling roses are retained and reinstated where lost, sitting alongside floor-to-ceiling glazing at the rear that opens the lower floors entirely to the garden. The entrance hall is anchored by a bespoke geometric marble floor and a sculptural curved staircase in polished dark timber.

Bombardier Global XRS Shalini Misra Design has completed an extensive interior renovation of a Bombardier Global XRS, transforming the aircraft into a highly personalised airborne residence defined by bespoke craftsmanship and layered cultural references.

The project began with a clear directive from the client: the aircraft should not feel like a means of transport, but rather a private home in the sky. Tasked with reimagining the 14-seat Global XRS, Shalini Misra Design was given the creative freedom to reinterpret private aviation interiors through the same residential design principles the studio applies to private homes.

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Studio Moren

Photography: Mikkel Vang

1 Hotel Mayfair by G.A Group & Studio Moren

“Winning Design et al Awards over many years has been an important recognition of Studio Moren’s design expertise – and a powerful endorsement for our clients.”

In a remarkable collaboration, Studio Moren & G.A Group have reimagined what a 1 Hotel in Mayfair should embody, focusing on craftsmanship, natural materials, and a profound celebration of nature. The design challenge set for G.A Group was to create a space that is not only comfortable and tranquil but also exudes a refined, pared-back aesthetic with meticulous attention to detail.

This vision was brought to life through the combined efforts of skilled artisans and creators, ensuring authenticity in every element of the design.

Studio Moren spearheaded the architectural design, which involved both a new-build and a conversion of an existing structure. This approach resulted in significant savings in embodied energy, carbon emissions, and site waste. By integrating the existing structural systems and retaining the majority of the building, rather than opting for a complete rebuild, the project met ambitious sustainability targets. The complexities of the existing structure, with its varied forms of construction and disparate floor levels, were skilfully navigated to create a workable and harmonious design.

The hotel, featuring 181 guestrooms, retained over 80% of its original structure, saving approximately 4,200 tonnes of carbon.

Reclaimed metal floor tiles, among other sustainably sourced and recycled materials, were utilized throughout the design, underscoring the commitment to environmental responsibility.

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Ron Design

Photography Koji Fujii / TOREAL.

House With Japanese Kura by Ron Design

The design et al Awards have long been a leading presence within the industry. When I became a BIID member in 2015, they were already an aspirational stage I hoped to continue challenging myself on. Being selected as a winner three times, including the Elite Award, has been deeply moving each time.

With every submission, I strongly feel the weight and responsibility of that recognition, and I remain committed to growing as a designer while engaging in meaningful dialogue alongside those I admire on this stage.

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The client’s family has owned this land, Kura storehouse and Japanese garden for generations. At the centre stands a monumental pine tree, a symbolic guardian of their history.

The client, who runs an international shipping business, values tradition inherited from his ancestors while embracing new technologies and global influences. This philosophy shaped the core concept of the house: a fusion of East and West, where heritage and innovation coexist.

The architecture expresses this vision by uniting reinforced concrete and timber, merging contrasting qualities—strength, warmth, precision and flexibility—into a cohesive whole. Marsala was chosen as the key interior colour, referencing the local copper industry that supported the family business. Its tonal variations run throughout the home like a single thread, linking the living/dining areas, private rooms and the man-cave. The double-height living space opens to the garden, allowing the mountain breeze to flow through the house and symbolically carrying hopes for continued prosperity. Sliding doors inspired by the family crest and a tatami room with Kyoto Yuzen panels depicting waves, wind and water reflect Japanese craftsmanship in a contemporary setting. A hand-crafted plaster wall by master artisan Naoki Kusumi rises through the double height, creating shifting shadows reminiscent of sand patterns. Accessed independently, the man-cave offers a cinematic atmosphere— evoking The Matrix or The Godfather. A wine cellar, billiard table, card game corner and golf simulator are arranged seamlessly, forming an elegant hideaway for business and private relaxation.

Robert Angell Design International

Photography: Ed Findlay

Azzurra by Robert Angell Design International

‘’Design et Al brings together the ultimate in global design firms and one where we can showcase the interiors that our clients entrust us to create for them. Actually winning a Design et Al award cements the great achievement in making what we do even more incredible and rewarding. It’s where the industry meet, share and exchange how we all love what we do and the immense satisfaction we all get from it.

I am incredibly proud of my team at Robert Angell Design International in continually striving to deliver not only award winning interiors but also having a real impact on people’s lives. ‘’

Robert Angell Design International has unveiled Azzurra, a vibrant and dramatic restaurant design inspired by the enchanting Amalfi Coast, with subtle nods to the British Isles’ world-renowned seafood. The project aimed to create a relaxed and approachable dining experience that immerses guests in an undersea adventure, complete with a treasure chest bar and dramatic rope structures.

The design of Azzurra transports diners beneath the waves, enveloping them in a unique, experiential atmosphere. The restaurant features huge, dramatic rope structures that create a canopy, giving the sense of dining under a ship’s masts and ropes, as light plays off the interior like moonlight reflecting on the sea. This immersive experience is further enhanced by the fresh and vibrant colour palette, which evolves from a bright, lively ambiance during the day to a more hedonistic and intimate setting as night falls.

Robert Angell Design International has meticulously chosen materials to create a tactile and sustainable environment. The ombre effect walls, which transition from pale hues to deep blue, were created using a blend of clay and sand, mixed and applied directly to the walls rather than being painted. This careful blending process adds depth and texture, contributing to the restaurant’s underwater theme.

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Olga Ashby Interiors

Photography: Vigo Jansons

Quai d’Orsay, Paris Project

It is hard to explain what one feels standing on the stage receiving an award. An award means an ultimate recognition and acceptance in the industry we love so much. It is not only a proof of talent, but also of persistence and resilience needed to start and finish a big project.

It gives you a feeling of closure and provides a piece of mind to your current and potential clients who are watching and supporting you.

Olga Ashby Interiors has brought Parisian charm to life with the design of a luxurious pied-à-terre in the heart of Paris. Blending Haussmannian elegance with contemporary sensibilities, this project reflects the effortless sophistication of Parisian life while catering to the cosmopolitan lifestyle of its owner.

Tasked with complete creative freedom, Olga Ashby Interiors was entrusted to craft a space that is both functional and stylish.

The resulting design includes two comfortable home offices, a magnificent dining area, and an elegant lounge in the Grand Salon. Each room is meticulously tailored to foster a sense of flow and connection, creating an inviting sanctuary amidst the bustle of the city.

A standout feature of the home is the master bathroom, which exemplifies quintessential Parisian design. Large windows flood the space with natural light, while soft curves define the layout, ensuring the room feels both spacious and welcoming.

Olga Ashby’s use of curves, inspired by her studies in Florence, achieves a balance between structure and openness, subtly dividing the space without interrupting the flow of light or movement.

Circular movement is a defining concept throughout the home, creating a harmonious rhythm that connects each area. Hidden doors add a touch of romance and mystery, evoking the intrigue and secrets of Parisian life. Bespoke details and carefully curated art pieces enhance the sense of individuality and luxury, ensuring the design feels timeless yet modern.

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MKV Designs

Costa Navarino

It is an honour to be chosen as a Finalist in design et al’s 20th Anniversary Accolade Awards.

To be included in their Elite Hospitality Design category is a highlight for every member of the MKV team, all of whom have contributed so assiduously to the work we have created over the years, including our selected project, Costa Navarino.

Costa Navarino is a benchmark resort development that Maria Vafiadis and her team at MKV Design have worked on since the very beginning. Located in the Greek region of Messina and overlooking the Ionian Sea, with verdant landscapes and beautiful beaches, it is a place where history, legend and the natural world conspire to create a remarkable backdrop for the experience of thoughtful luxury shaped by the design team.

The first phase of development encompassed the Agora village, a destination spa, a golf clubhouse, a conference centre and two hotels, The Romanos Luxury Collection and The Westin, all designed by MKV. It was during these early days, that Maria demonstrated her instinct for creating seamless indoor/outdoor experiences that celebrate the location – an approach that has since informed all sorts of hospitality settings in both urban and countryside locations across Europe.

Several new restaurants and a second golf clubhouse followed for MKV and then another standard setting hotel project – the creation of W Costa Navarino, the first W hotel in Greece. Here luxury and informality meet, reflecting both the soul of the resort and the spirit of the brand. Meanwhile, the team embarked on their first significant refurbishment, at The Westin, remarkably over 12 years since it was originally completed.

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Meyer Davis

W Sardinia

“We are truly honored to be named a finalist for the Design et al Accolade Awards. Having previously been recognized within the program, the awards hold a special significance for our team; they celebrate not only design excellence, but the passion and collaboration behind every project. Each acknowledgment has been a meaningful milestone for Meyer Davis, reinforcing our commitment to thoughtful, impactful design.” — Will Meyer and Gray Davis

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W Sardinia unfolds as a carefully choreographed journey shaped by landscape, water, and cultural context. Guests move through a sequence of spaces that begin in compressed, grotto-like passages before opening into bright, social interiors oriented toward the marina. The property is organized across multiple buildings and shifting elevations, encouraging a sense of discovery throughout the site. The layered terrain reflects Sardinia’s exploratory spirit while weaving together history and modernity.

The lobby draws from local folklore, specifically the Janas, mythical guardians believed to inhabit shoreline caves and protect sailors. Their presence is expressed through fluid forms, sculptural lighting, and a tactile palette referencing coral formations, submerged relics, and tidal motion. Sun washed neutrals, sandy hues, and Mediterranean blues are paired with ceramics, reflective surfaces, hammered metals, and matte finishes, creating an atmosphere that feels both mysterious and welcoming. Preserved arched openings and Orosei marble floors anchor the space in its past.

Massari Design

BBJ MAX 7

At Massari Design, we believe that excellence is a mosaic of details, a philosophy we have deeply poured into the BBJ Max 7 project. Having our work recognized once again by the expert jury of the design et al awards is a profound honor; it validates our obsession with craftsmanship and the ‘finer points’ that define our DNA. Winning in past years has been a significant milestone for our team, serving as a prestigious testament to our consistent evolution and our commitment to shaping the future of luxury yacht design.

Massari Design completed an interior design concept for Boeing’s BBJ Max 7, the design mission was to create an emotional design that people could really connect with. A light colour scheme and bright atmosphere will balance the feeling of an enclosed floating space, creating visual cosy environments for guests on this jet.

The contemporary design features ultra-smooth finishes which is combined with the simplicity of the surfaces. These features allow the colour and design to be the focus rather than the texture of the materials.

The space planning was conceived to have distinctive areas for multiple business and relaxing usages. The open plan living area serves as a relaxation area that can also be used for dining and business needs. The large bathroom area mimics that of a luxury 5-star hotel, open plan and spacious.

For Massari Design, the key aspect of this project was the clean and contemporary design. Smooth lines combined with the neutral colour scheme provide an interior that is appealing and inviting. The interiors perfectly showcase a luxury style without being over the top or unnecessarily flashy.

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Leivars

Photography: Nick Smith Photography

Family Home Sandbanks

“Winning any industry award is immensely humbling and with such incredible talent within the Interior Design field globally, to be recognised and win a design et al International Design Award several times always leaves us speechless to be recognised at such a high level. It is hard to truly put into words, but ‘that’ feeling is everything.”

The brief centred on creating a serene coastal retreat for an international family seeking respite from the pace of London life.

With four children and three dogs, the home needed to balance beauty with practicality while honouring the historic character of the 1930’s property. The original stained‑glass windows, which dominate the main and upper hallways, became a defining influence. Their rich tones informed a contemporary palette carried subtly throughout the interiors, allowing old and new to sit comfortably together.

The design approach focused on texture, reflection and movement, ensuring the home echoed its dramatic coastal setting.

Soft, layered materials were chosen to gently diffuse light and mirror the shifting colours of the sea, giving each room a sense of real‑time connection to the water. Bold accents of mustard, ochre and teal were introduced to complement the stained glass, while a striking angled extension allowed for clean architectural lines that frame uninterrupted ocean views.

This interplay of heritage detail and modern geometry created a harmonious, uplifting atmosphere.

Multiple seating zones were designed to encourage gathering and conversation, ensuring the family could connect while still enjoying the landscape. Discreet joinery, oversized artwork and carefully curated furnishings allowed the interiors to blend seamlessly with the home’s original fabric, creating a retreat that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in its surroundings.

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Laura Hammett

Yorkshire Country Estate

“The Design et al Awards have been incredibly meaningful to me and to the whole team at Laura Hammett. Winning Designer of the Year and being recognised for our Bahamas Penthouse project was a real honour and a moment of reflection on the scale, ambition and collaboration behind our work. Past awards have consistently pushed us to raise the bar creatively, and they remain a powerful validation of the passion and dedication of our entire team.”

Set within more than 1,000 acres of private Yorkshire parkland, this 10,250 sq ft former Victorian lodge has been transformed into a contemporary family estate. The design establishes a strong connection between architecture and landscape, with rolling hills, woodland and a private lake shaping the interior narrative.

A grand double‑height entryway with restored stonework, a sweeping Portland Stone staircase and ornate bronze balustrades sets an elegant tone, blending heritage character with refined modernity. Throughout the home, expansive glazing, skylights and soft architectural curves ensure natural light and views remain central to the experience.

At the heart of the estate lies a dramatic open‑plan kitchen, dining and living space conceived as the social centre of the home. High ceilings and skylights create a bright, uplifting atmosphere, while Calacatta Borghini marble, bespoke cabinetry and sculptural stone elements deliver a contemporary‑country aesthetic.

The adjoining living area frames sweeping views and features concealed technology and linen‑textured furnishings for a serene, uncluttered feel. Behind the kitchen, a beautifully detailed pantry reinterprets the classic larder with Carrara marble, pale oak joinery and discreet professional‑grade equipment, balancing rustic authenticity with modern functionality.

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KA Design Works

Bourbonhaus

The International Design & Architecture Awards offer a unique platform to connect with a global community of innovators, celebrating not just aesthetics, but thoughtful, forward-thinking design.

This is what we continually strive for in our work, so it is a tremendous honor to have won several of these Awards over the years. We find being part of this conversation yearly is both energizing and deeply rewarding, while the awards themselves are a positive affirmation for a firm that believes in pushing the creative envelope.

Perched on a dramatic 23-acre site just outside Breckenridge, Bourbonhaus is a 700 square-meter primary residence designed for a family of four seeking panoramic views, durable materials, and spaces tailored to an active, creative lifestyle. Named due to the owner’s career as an award-winning bourbon distiller, the home’s design is expressive yet grounded, refined without formality. Early collaboration with the Town of Breckenridge allowed the Architect to rotate the original disturbance envelope, optimizing solar orientation while framing sweeping views of Breckenridge Ski Area. As a result, every major space engages the surrounding alpine landscape.

The great room forms the heart of the home, wrapped in clerestory windows and opened to the outdoors through a 12.5 foot-tall NanaWall Cero system.

A full-length deck extends the living space outward, hovering above the walkout lower level. A flexible homework room for the family’s teenage sons opens fully via pocketed corner sliders, while a discreet guest primary suite is tucked nearby. The owners’ primary suite occupies the opposite wing, buffered by a glass-enclosed office with a three sided fireplace. Floor-toceiling glazing in both bedroom and bath creates the sensation of floating above the valley.

The lower level is dedicated to gathering and retreat, featuring a family room, game room, and bar, supported by a wine room, mixing lab, and hidden speakeasy. En-suite bedrooms, a bunkroom, gym, and sauna complete a home that is equal parts family lodge, creative retreat, and modern mountain residence.

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Juliette Byrne

Photography: @adamjohnstonphotography

Dresden 18th Century Renovation by Juliette Byrne Ltd

“The Design Et Al Awards have always been seen as the pinnacle of the industry acknowledging our achievements as designers.

I entered the first Awards many years ago and each time we have taken part it has grown in size of entries, become even more glamorous and now combining the Aviation and super yacht industries as part of the categories it has transformed into a globally recognised brand.

We are honoured to be selected and wish all the entries the very best of luck in Venice!’

Juliette Byrne Ltd has transformed a property in Germany, originally divided into two apartments, into an exquisite residence that beautifully merges traditional elegance with modern functionality. The comprehensive restoration project aimed to reinstate the original structure while incorporating cutting-edge amenities.

The restoration included the meticulous refurbishment of decorative plaster cornices, preservation of the stone staircase and panelling by skilled local craftsmen, and the addition of state-of-the-art lighting and heating systems. Internal layout changes were strategically made to enhance the flow of the house, including the incorporation of arched glazed window panels above entrance doors and a side extension for a boot room with separate access.

Noteworthy design elements include a new marble-clad chimney breast with a remote-controlled gas fire, serving as a focal point in the formal seating area. Juliette Byrne Ltd introduced a new study/library and a charming dining area with a bay window banquette seat, creating versatile and welcoming spaces. All joinery, including the kitchen with its Belfast sink, drinks fridge, and lit display cabinets, was meticulously designed and locally crafted.

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Hill House Interiors

Marbella Luxury Villa

“Design et al has been part of our journey for over two decades, from the very first awards through to being finalists, and winners, across the years.

To be recognised now with a 20th Anniversary Accolade nomination feels like an incredible honour and a lovely full circle moment, reflecting the shared values, creativity and passion that have shaped both the awards and our studio over the years.” - Helen & Jenny

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When the clients invited us back to their Spanish villa, first designed over sixteen years ago, it felt both a privilege and a responsibility to guide the next phase of its life. The house had hosted many summers and held deep emotional significance, yet it was clear that while the architectural framework remained sound, the interiors belonged to an earlier chapter. Colours varied from room to room, spaces felt stylistically disconnected, and many finishes had been inherited when the villa was originally built and therefore retained during our initial involvement.

Over time, the clients’ tastes evolved, their family grew, and the villa shifted from a holiday retreat to a primary residence. The brief centred on renewal: to adapt the house for everyday living while preserving its character, familiarity and Mediterranean spirit.

North London Family Residence The client approached the project with a clear ambition: to create a home capable of supporting the complexities of a large, sociable family while remaining deeply personal and achieving a genuine sense of ‘wow factor’. We were involved from a vey early stage, and as the property was built entirely from the ground up, this provided a rare opportunity to design every element with complete cohesion, shaping both architecture and interiors precisely around the family’s lifestyle.

HBA

One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro

“The Design et al Awards have long been a respected benchmark for design excellence in our industry, and past recognition has been meaningful for HBA and our teams. Being named a finalist in the 20th Anniversary Accolade Awards is particularly significant, as it reflects both the strength of our work today and the consistency of our design approach over time. We’re pleased to be part of this milestone.”

Nestled within the within the mountainous and dramatic Boka Bay, Montenegro, this luxury resort offers approximately 113 keys comprising guestrooms, suites, and exclusive hotel villas.

Designed to embrace its exceptional waterfront setting, the resort provides an immersive destination defined by refined hospitality and world-class amenities. Facilities include four distinctive dining venues such as a lounge bar, an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants; Tapasake Restauran and Sabia Restaurant by Michelin-star chef Locatelli, and the Chenot Swiss medical spa. Additional offerings include a retail boutique, kid’s club, tennis club, and a collection of branded residential villas designed to the high standards established by Kezner.

The design celebrates understated, timeless elegance, allowing architecture and interiors to frame the views of Boka Bay. Inspired by the region’s historic monastic architecture, the design language reinterprets traditional forms into a contemporary expression suited for today’s traveler. Barrel vaulted ceilings with intricate wood marquetry crown the main lobby, including a signature sculptural lighting installation inspired by Montenegro’s national flower, the mimosa while oversized heaths, floats beneath the ceilings, accompanied by floral-embroidered fabrics layered with theatrical sheers. At the heart of the lobby, tumbled aged stone floors, and a dramatic boulder sculpture referencing the surrounding mountainous landscape marks the arrival moment.

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Brian Worthington & Associates:

Longwood Complete restoration and renovation of an important early 20th Century country house on the gold coast of Long Island built for the Taft family (former president of the USA).

We at Brian Worthington & Associates we create bespoke interiors for discerning international clients where detail is key in the classical foundations no matter if period or contemporary design and style. In a world where client privacy and confidentiality is paramount, being a recipient of a Design et al Award is a much appreciated recognition of our achievements.

Brian Worthington & Associates wanted to respect and create a harmonious interior to the exterior of the property with beautifully scaled and proportioned furniture. 95% of the furniture is antique/vintage from the UK and France, quiet luxury was key design aspect with cashmere walling bringing the design together. There is a great connection between the architecture, the interior and the location. It is a wonderful combination that ticks all of the boxes of appropriateness.

Brian Worthington wanted to blend British modern art with the 18th Century/ early 19th Century. Understated elegance was paramount to the design philosophy and the clients understanding as the project developed was key. It was crucial that the monochromatic back drop did not to compete with the natural beautiful surroundings of the property. It was recommended that a man-made pond below the lower lawn at the rear of the property should be installed and the clients happily approved. The pond is truly the exterior feature of the property now and is a focal point from the drawing room and dining room.

A project can only end up being absolute perfection when you have outstanding design, craftsman ship and the most openminded client.

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Bishop Design

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences

We live and create by the motto, “Never become complacent - you are only as good as your latest work.” Design et Al offers a truly international platform to measure our work against the global design community, which is invaluable. Winning these awards is always an incredible sense of accomplishment for both myself and the team at Bishop Design. And while we’ve been fortunate to receive many over the years, I’ll admit, it never quite feels like enough, in the best possible way.

Born from the creative legacies of Los Angeles and Miami, SLS Dubai stands as one of the brand’s most iconic evolutions. As an established international brand operated by lifestyle chain SBE, the personality of SLS is playful mischief, witty surprise, and touches of sophisticated sexiness. It was essential to honour these philosophies while evolving the brand’s character to meet Dubai’s hospitality expectations.

The Downtown Dubai edition expands the global portfolio with 254 hotel rooms, 321 hotel apartments, and a diverse selection of F&B concepts. Remaining loyal to brand DNA, Bishop Design also explored their own curiosities to craft an evolved image suited to the region.

A welcoming ambience defines the arrival experience, seamless in its transition through dynamic materials and unconventional detailing that move away from typical operational standards. A key highlight is the clear-glass and wooden storage elements, forming harmonious containers for attire, a drinks bar, and valuables. This feature exemplifies how we pushed boundaries within hospitality design, creating beautiful, unexpected experiences while respecting the ideologies that SLS prides itself on.

This ideology of extravagance is set against urban, somewhat unfinished conditions, creating a hybrid of contrasting styles.

Ornate classical details paired with raw finishes establish an unconventional perception of luxury for SLS’s sophisticated clientele.

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Avid Interior Design

Photography: Eymeric Wilding

Priddis Residence

“Receiving the design et al International Interior Design & Architecture Award for Luxury Residence Canada in both 2023 and 2025 has been one of the most significant and humbling milestones in our studio’s journey. For me personally, and for the incredible team at Avid Interior Design, these awards represent far more than recognition — they affirm years of dedication, collaboration, and an unrelenting passion for creating spaces that are as emotionally resonant as they are beautifully considered.

We are incredibly grateful to design et al for hosting these prestigious awards and for their continued commitment over these last 20 years to elevating industry standards”

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Avid Interior Design Inc. led the complete transformation of this private estate home, located in the sought-after community of Priddis. With five bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, the 7,730-square-foot residence underwent a full-scale renovation totalling over $1.5 million. Every space was meticulously redesigned, resulting in a sophisticated and timeless interior.

Surrounded by nature, the home now offers elevated living at its finest. From the moment you enter, the scale and quality are immediately evident. Panelled walls, statement lighting, bespoke wall coverings and designer hardware create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Avid Interior Design Inc. curated every inch with exceptional attention to detail. Custom cabinetry, tailored built-ins and carefully selected furnishings ensure the design flows seamlessly throughout the home.

One of the standout features is the transformation of a bedroom into a “hers” dressing room, providing separate his and her closets in the primary suite. It is both functional and stylish—a perfect example of how the design marries practicality with elegance.

All new furniture was selected to suit the updated interiors, reinforcing the cohesive and luxurious feel. The project involved collaboration with a full team of trades including contractors, cabinet makers, millworkers, electricians, tilers, framers, drywallers, plumbers, painters, wallpaper installers, drapery consultants and movers.

Taylor Howes Designs

Photography: Martin Morrell

Photography: Luke White

Kensington Family Penthouse

“Being recognised by the Design et al Awards has been incredibly meaningful for both the team and myself. It reflects the level of thought, creativity and attention to detail that goes into our work, and has been a real moment of pride for everyone involved.

To receive this recognition is a wonderful acknowledgment of the standards we strive for, and of the creativity and craftsmanship that underpin everything we do at Taylor Howes.”

Overlooking Kensington Palace Gardens, this exclusive penthouse was comprehensively renovated to create a refined yet highly personal London residence for a family of five. The brief called for a contemporary home that could elegantly showcase the clients’ significant art collection, while incorporating oneof-a-kind statement pieces. It was important that each child’s bedroom expressed an individual identity, reflecting their personalities within a cohesive design narrative.

The project involved a full renovation, including extensive planning of the formal and family living spaces, the replacement of all ceilings and flooring, and the complete redesign of the kitchen and bathrooms.

Cotswolds Family Estate An 18,000 square feet country retreat with astounding proportions and unique detailing, sitting within 260 acres of architectural land. Taylor Howes was tasked to create the interior of this unique family home, nestled in the Oxfordshire countryside which has received classification as a ‘Building of Unique Architectural Merit’ and has one of the largest domestic thatched roofs in Europe, measuring approximately 1,400m². The building, designed by architect Richard Parr Associates features two connected wings and a top-lit glazed gallery.

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Photography: Guillaume Plisson, Excellence by Abeking & Rasmussen

SUPERYACHT INTERIOR DESIGN Is the future clear?

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approach this from the perspective of a journalist and an interior designer. As a journalist, my role is to report on design directions and trends - and perhaps the social and economic aspects of an ever-changing society. As a designer, I am further able to understand holistically the impact of those changes on design.

This has been an interesting couple of decades, and I am certain it will continue to be as yacht buyers, designers, shipyards and brokers cope with the emerging market whilst, in some cases, perhaps they mourn the past.

Of course, as a journalist and publisher I sit outside the industry: like the narrator in a novel I observe with intrigue, watch intently and report with accuracy - or at least this is my aim. At design et al, we entered the Superyacht world quite by chance, working on interior design titles was and is our forte, but the 2008 global economic crash created loss and opportunity, perhaps at equal levels.

We moved into this realm of design - an incredible area of the design sector due to designers focusing on clients’ projects in a broader sense. It would be fair to say we witnessed a world of tradition and charm that sat outside that of wider design industry in some ways. Some may disagree, I am merely an observer and narrator, however for the purpose of this piece and these are indeed my observations.

Being quite frank, we also witnessed a little reluctance to allow interior designers to step in and work cross-sector, but this has changed. We have promoted and pushed this, empowered the designers, focused on this development and I think in this way have been a fundamental part of the renaissance in this industry. From this perspective we didn’t just sit back and observe, we got right in there and drove things forward.

Over the past couple of decades, we have witnessed a change in the direction not only of superyacht design, but also of superyacht ownership. Millennials are expected to make up 60% per cent of super yacht owners by 2030, we are building

for, designing for and aiming to reach a different audience.

Superyachts are moving from the power yielding statements of bold ambition and wealth they once were, to integrated parts of the owner’s life. Bars and gyms may still make up part of the design scheme throughout, but the focus is now moving to a broader level of well-being, peace, tranquillity and continuity of design style. Owners want their yacht to reflect their home and lifestyle in a very much more integrated way.

Ok here’s the part when I am going to be completely honest, stepping into the Superyacht industry back in 2008 from a design perspective was mixed. Can I say mixed? This would be my polite way of describing an industry that applauded bling and excess - client-fuelled bling and excess design statements I may add. ‘Wow’ I thought to myself, this industry is high-end, obviously incredible in its infrastructure and from an engineering perspective, but in design terms it needs to move forward.

Bring forward an army, well a little less than an army, perhaps a handful of very experience designers working at the very pinnacle of the sector, on clients London townhouses, second homes in the South of France, yachts and private planes.

And the future – well let’s not talk about trends as a serous design magazine, we should focus on design directions, longevity and patterns of living and being. The world’s leading designers will continue to move closer to shipyards and completion centres and work with their clients to create schemes that are in line with the client’s individuality; they will bring with them new components, new ideas, different ways of coordinating space... all of which is exciting for the industry in general terms. The design renaissance will continue, to an evolving and changing target audience. As someone emersed in this demographic, I find it exciting: we have taken great steps over the past decades, but the significant change is yet to happen – hold on to your seats, it’s going to be an exhilarating ride!

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A QUIETLY RADICAL PROPOSTION Bombardier Global XRS by Shalini Misra Design

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n the evolving language of private aviation, where engineering precision has long outpaced interior imagination, the Bombardier Global XRS by Shalini Misra Design emerges as a quietly radical proposition. Completed in September 2025 in collaboration with AeroVisto Interior Services AG, the 14-seat aircraft transcends its functional identity to become something far more intimate: a highly personalised residence conceived for life in motion, yet anchored in stillness, comfort and cultural memory.

The brief was unequivocal from the outset.

This was not to be a transport interior elevated through luxury finishes, but a fully realised domestic environment suspended at altitude. The client’s expectation was clear: the aircraft should dissolve the sensation of travel altogether, replacing it with the continuity of home.

Every journey, whether short-haul or intercontinental, would be absorbed into a seamless extension of personal space, routine and identity.

To achieve this, Shalini Misra Design approached the Global XRS with the same sensibility it applies to private residences on the ground. Spatial planning was not dictated by aviation convention, but by human behaviour – how one moves, pauses, works, dines, and rests across a day. The cabin is therefore conceived less as a linear tube and more as a series of gently defined domestic zones, each calibrated to support shifting states of use without ever disrupting visual or material harmony.

Cultural narrative sits at the heart of the interior concept, though never in overt or literal terms. The client’s global outlook and layered heritage are woven into the design language with restraint and intelligence, expressed through references that feel discovered rather than declared. Nowhere is this more eloquently articulated than in the bespoke de Gournay wallpaper installation, which forms a defining visual rhythm throughout the cabin.

Hand-painted scenes inspired by 19thcentury British expeditions to India have been entirely reinterpreted for the curved architecture of the aircraft fuselage.

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The complexity of this intervention lies not only in its artistic execution, but in its technical orchestration. Each panel was meticulously composed around seat backs, monitors and structural interruptions, requiring months of coordination to ensure continuity of narrative across an unforgiving geometry.

The result is immersive yet measured – an enveloping backdrop that reads as if it has always belonged within the aircraft’s form.

Materiality throughout the cabin reflects a similar commitment to depth and authenticity. Jaipur Rugs provided custom carpets developed specifically for aviation performance conditions, balancing tactile richness with durability and certification requirements. Leather surfaces by Garrett Leather and Lance Woven Leather introduce a layered sensory palette, while marquetry by Simon Orrell Designs brings a precise artisanal discipline to key joinery elements. Each surface is distinct in craft yet unified in tone, creating a cohesive interior that privileges texture over spectacle.

Across the cabin, detailing reveals the extent to which craftsmanship has been pushed into new technical territory.

Embroidered leather panels by Rosemary Rose, including applications within the bathroom, required aviation certification without compromising on delicacy or intricacy of stitch. Wallpaper installations are counterbalanced by engineered substrates designed to withstand pressure variation and vibration. Even adhesives for marquetry elements were custom specified to perform reliably at altitude, underscoring the extent to which no element was considered standard or transferable from residential practice.

This insistence on specificity extends into the furniture and upholstery detailing, where every stitch has been shaped by the geometry of aviation seating. Curves, recline angles and safety constraints are not treated as limitations, but as generative forces that inform form and finish. Upholstery is tailored not only for comfort, but for ergonomic continuity during extended periods in flight, ensuring that the interior remains supportive whether the aircraft is being used for work, dining or rest.

One of the most defining achievements of the project lies in its cohesion. Despite the multiplicity of materials, crafts and technical requirements, the cabin reads as a single, unified gesture. This coherence is not achieved through visual repetition, but through a consistent design philosophy: that every element must be necessary, considered and inseparable from the client’s way of living.

Ultimately, the Bombardier Global XRS succeeds because it resists the language of aviation luxury as it is typically understood. Instead of accumulation, it prioritises intention. Instead of display, it privileges intimacy. The aircraft becomes not a showcase of finishes, but a finely tuned environment shaped entirely around one individual’s rhythms and sensibilities.

For Shalini Misra Design, the project represents a clear articulation of its wider practice: that true luxury lies not in excess, but in precision of understanding.

In translating the values of a private residence into one of the most technically demanding environments imaginable, the studio has created an interior that does more than travel – it holds its occupant in a continuous state of belonging, wherever in the world it may be.

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AN ETHEREAL YET GROUNDED DESIGN SCHEME Private Residences Jeddah by Robert Angell International

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esigned by Robert Angell Design International, Private Residences Jeddah defines a new chapter in elevated urban living along the rapidly evolving coastline of Jeddah. Completed in May 2026, this landmark development of 48 floors and 120 apartments rises with quiet confidence above the shifting waters of the Red Sea, forming part of a new district that reflects the city’s ambitious transformation. Within this vertical community, a singular three-bedroom private residence captures the essence of contemporary Saudi luxury: refined, restrained, and deeply responsive to place.

From the outset, the brief called for a home that could balance grandeur with intimacy. Two lounges, four bathrooms, a master suite with walk-in dressing room, and an expansive balcony were to be composed not as isolated functions, but as a continuous narrative of space. The result is an apartment where thresholds dissolve, rooms flow seamlessly, and the architecture itself becomes a quiet choreography of movement and light.

The design language draws directly from its surroundings. The ever-changing tonal shifts of the Red Sea – silver at dawn, crystalline turquoise at midday, molten amber at dusk – form the conceptual backbone of the interiors. Rather than imitate this natural theatre, the palette absorbs it, translating it into soft mineral hues, pale reflective surfaces, and tactile materials that respond subtly to the passage of daylight. The effect is ethereal yet grounded, offering a sense of calm continuity even as the world beyond the glazing transforms by the hour.

Minimalism underpins the aesthetic, but it is a minimalism enriched with texture and cultural reference. Full-height doors establish uninterrupted vertical rhythm, while pale marble flooring extends across the apartment in seamless planes, its veining carefully matched to maintain visual stillness. Bespoke marble installations, hand-selected block by block, anchor bathrooms and key living zones, ensuring each surface reads as

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part of a unified geological composition rather than applied decoration.

Layered above this disciplined base is a quieter sensorial complexity. Grasscloth wallcoverings from Phillip Jeffries introduce a gentle tactility that softens light as it travels across surfaces, adding depth without visual noise. Shallow coffered ceilings punctuated by petalshaped pendants cast delicate, dappled illumination across the principal living areas, evoking the shifting play of sunlight filtered through coastal architecture. In the lounges and private spaces, sculptural furnishings from Baxter bring warmth and depth through their combination of leather, fabric, and refined form.

Throughout the apartment, light is treated as a material in its own right.

Water-effect glass screens subtly divide bathroom spaces without interrupting the flow of daylight, creating interiors that feel simultaneously private and open. As sunlight moves through the day, these surfaces animate the rooms with gentle distortion, dissolving edges and reinforcing the sense of fluidity that defines the entire residence.

A defining architectural gesture lies in the reinterpretation of traditional mashrabiya. Drawing inspiration from the historic fabric of Jeddah, movable lattice screens are integrated into terraces and transitional spaces. These elements perform both poetic and practical roles: filtering sunlight into intricate geometric patterns, offering privacy, and establishing a visual dialogue between heritage and modernity. As the sun moves across the sky, these screens cast shifting shadows that animate walls and floors, evoking the enduring legacy of Hejazi craftsmanship within a distinctly contemporary framework.

Detailing is treated with equal care and precision. Hardware from Joseph Giles ensures every touchpoint feels substantial and considered, reinforcing the tactile quality of daily interaction. Lighting elements from Bella Figura introduce an

understated elegance, their forms quietly supporting the architectural language rather than competing with it. Meanwhile, curated accents from Jonathan Adler introduce moments of personality and levity, carefully balanced within the restrained palette.

The spatial flow is one of the residence’s most compelling achievements. Rooms unfold in a continuous sequence, with sightlines extending through multiple zones toward the horizon beyond. There is a deliberate absence of abrupt transitions; instead, shifts in materiality, light, and scale signal changes in function. This creates an almost cinematic experience of domestic life, where movement through the home becomes an unfolding narrative rather than a series of isolated spaces.

The residence succeeds through restraint rather than excess. Luxury is expressed through proportion, light, and material integrity rather than overt statement. It reflects a broader cultural moment within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – one in which tradition is neither replicated nor erased but thoughtfully reinterpreted with clarity and confidence.

The client response affirms this approach.

The apartment is experienced as everchanging and deeply calming, a home that shifts with the rhythm of the day.

Furniture, art, and spatial composition work in harmony to create an atmosphere that feels both contemporary and enduring.

In its final expression, Private Residences Jeddah stands as a study in equilibrium: between old and new, light and shadow, openness and intimacy. Suspended above the Red Sea, it offers not just a place to live, but a quietly transformative way of experiencing space itself.

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AN EXERCISE IN MATERIAL HONESTY Montauk Residence by Meyer Davis

Private Residences Jeddah by Robert Angell International

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erched above the Atlantic Ocean on the rugged coastline of Montauk, the Montauk Residence by Meyer Davis is an exercise in restraint, atmosphere and material honesty. Conceived as a private summer retreat for a New York-based family seeking a slower, more grounded way of living, the residence captures the essence of contemporary coastal luxury without resorting to cliché. Instead, the project offers a carefully calibrated dialogue between architecture, landscape and interiors – one where the surrounding environment is given permission to lead.

Working alongside Robert Young Architects, Meyer Davis approached the project with an understanding that the home’s greatest luxury was always going to be its setting. Built into a dramatic sloped site overlooking the ocean, the architecture terraces gently down the hillside in a sequence of geometric volumes that appear almost carved into the landscape itself. Expansive glazing frames uninterrupted water views, while layered terraces and outdoor living areas dissolve the boundaries between inside and out.

For the interiors, the studio resisted any temptation toward visual excess. Instead, the design language is quiet and deeply tactile – a contemporary minimalism softened through texture, craftsmanship and nuanced tonal variation. The clients, inspired by Meyer Davis’ acclaimed work for the 1 Hotel South Beach, sought to recreate the same effortless resort sensibility within a more intimate residential setting. The result is a home that feels simultaneously elevated and entirely liveable.

Throughout the residence, a palette of soft greys, warm whites and pale natural oak establishes an atmosphere of calm continuity. Painted floors and muted millwork create a subdued architectural backdrop, allowing materiality rather than ornamentation to define the experience of each room. Walls and ceilings are washed in crisp white, amplifying natural light as it moves through the house from sunrise to dusk. The effect is airy yet grounded – sophisticated without severity.

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Texture becomes the project’s true decorative language. Chunky woven textiles, tactile upholstery and handfinished surfaces introduce depth and warmth to the otherwise pared-back interiors. Meyer Davis masterfully balances smooth and raw, opaque and translucent, creating moments of contrast that subtly animate the spaces without disrupting their serenity.

One of the home’s most striking moments occurs immediately upon entry.

Suspended within the double-height volume is a sculptural ceramic pendant

by Scott Daniel Design, glowing softly against the transparency of the glasslined architecture. Beneath it, a sandinfused mirror by Fernando Mastrangelo introduces both artistry and narrative.

Hand-dyed in raspberry and fuchsia tones evocative of Montauk’s wild coastal flora, the piece references the surrounding shoreline while adding an unexpected chromatic interruption within the otherwise neutral palette.

Elsewhere, the living room is anchored by an oversized resin coffee table by Facture.

Its substantial form grounds the seating arrangement while its translucent finish maintains an almost ethereal lightness.

This tension between solidity and softness is repeated throughout the home and speaks directly to Meyer Davis’ refined understanding of contemporary luxury: one rooted not in opulence, but in sensory experience.

Architecturally, the residence is punctuated by a monumental stone hearth positioned at the heart of the main living level. Designed by Robert Young Architects, the sculptural intervention simultaneously separates and unifies the living and dining areas, reinforcing the home’s open-plan flow while introducing a sense of permanence and gravitas.

The primary entertaining floor occupies the upper level of the home, maximising panoramic ocean views beyond Montauk Highway. Every principal room is oriented toward the water, creating a constant visual relationship with the landscape.

Yet despite the scale of the glazing and

openness of the plan, the interiors never feel exposed. Instead, they convey a profound sense of sanctuary.

This is particularly evident within the bedroom suites, where the design shifts into an even softer register. In the primary bedroom, white shiplap walls and light oak furnishings establish a muted coastal language elevated through refined detailing. Driftwood lamps and a seagrass pendant introduce organic texture while remaining tonally restrained. Positioned beside the glazing, the iconic Le Corbusier LC4 Chaise Longue offers a contemplative place from which to absorb the surrounding seascape – a subtle reminder that this home was designed as much for pause as for entertaining.

Outdoor living spaces are equally considered. Terraces, balconies and lounge areas are woven throughout the architecture, creating an effortless rhythm between gathering and retreat. Heated lounge chairs by Galanter and Jones sit alongside deeply upholstered sofas, while woven rubber cushions by Shore introduce durability without sacrificing tactility.

The outdoor environments feel less like separate zones and more like natural continuations of the interiors themselves.

What ultimately distinguishes the Montauk Residence is its disciplined sense of balance. Nothing competes for attention; every element exists in service of atmosphere, comfort and connection to place. Meyer Davis has created a home that embraces minimalism without austerity and luxury without extravagance – a contemporary coastal retreat where architecture, interiors and landscape exist in complete harmony with one another.

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AN EXPRESSION OF TIMELESS LUXURY McKenzie Lake Residence by Avid Interior

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et against the serene backdrop of McKenzie Lake in Calgary, Alberta, the McKenzie Lake Residence by Avid Interior Design is a masterclass in restraint, refinement, and architectural recalibration. Spanning 6,500 square feet, this renovated estate home has been thoughtfully reimagined under the direction of Principal Designer Anna-Maria Wurz, transforming what was once an over-embellished and outdated interior into a composition of calm sophistication and enduring warmth.

The project, completed in 2023, is defined by a clear and disciplined design narrative: to honour the heritage of the home while elevating it into a contemporary expression of timeless luxury. Rather than imposing an entirely new identity, Avid Interior Design chose to refine what already existed – stripping back excess, rebalancing proportions, and reintroducing clarity through materiality, light, and bespoke craftsmanship.

At the heart of the transformation is a complete reconfiguration of both the main and upper levels. The revised floor plan introduces a more intuitive flow, carefully aligned with the rhythms of modern family living while preserving a sense of architectural dignity. Circulation routes were reconsidered to enhance connectivity between key living spaces, while allowing moments of pause and intimacy within the larger estate footprint.

Throughout the residence, custom cabinetry and tailored millwork act as quiet architectural anchors. Executed in collaboration with Prime Millwork, these elements are not merely functional interventions but sculptural gestures that unify the interiors. Their precision detailing introduces rhythm and continuity, subtly guiding the eye through spaces that feel both expansive and intimately considered.

Nowhere is the project’s transformation more evident than in the kitchen, which stands as a central expression of the home’s new identity. Once fragmented and visually heavy, it has been reimagined as

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a luminous, highly functional gathering space. Clean-lined cabinetry, carefully curated finishes, and a disciplined material palette create a sense of calm order, while maintaining an inviting warmth essential to its role as the social heart of the home.

Equally compelling is the great room, where scale and restraint are held in delicate balance. The double-height volume presented both opportunity and challenge, particularly in the restoration of ceiling detailing and the integration of a striking fireplace feature. Executed with precision by Jax Builders, the architectural partner on the project, the fireplace becomes a grounding focal point—its proportions carefully calibrated to anchor the height of the space without overwhelming it. The result is a composition that feels expansive yet deeply human in scale.

A sculptural stairwell further defines the home’s vertical journey. Its curved forms, meticulously executed by skilled trades, introduce a sense of movement and softness within the otherwise structured architectural framework. These curves are echoed subtly throughout the residence, reinforcing a design language that prioritises flow over rigidity, and elegance over excess.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing interventions is the concealed room off the great room – a discreet yet playful architectural gesture that reflects the layered personality of the home. Hidden spaces such as this introduce a sense of discovery and narrative depth, reminding occupants that luxury is not only found in what is immediately visible, but also in what is thoughtfully revealed.

Material selection throughout the residence was approached with equal care. Alberta Hardwood provided rich, natural flooring that grounds the interiors in warmth, while Arnold Masonry and Bordt Stone + Tile contributed tactile stonework that reinforces the home’s connection to permanence and craftsmanship. Finishes by Oram

Painting soften transitions between materials, ensuring that each surface feels harmonious within the broader composition.

Despite its scale and refined detailing, the McKenzie Lake Residence avoids any sense of detachment. Instead, it achieves a rare balance: elevated yet grounded, refined yet deeply liveable. Every decision – whether structural, aesthetic, or tactile – has been made with lifestyle in mind.

The result is a home that does not merely present itself as an object of architectural interest, but as a lived environment shaped around comfort, function, and emotional resonance.

What defines the project most distinctly is its restraint. In an era often defined by visual excess, Avid Interior Design has chosen a quieter path – one that prioritises longevity over trend, and atmosphere over spectacle. The interiors are not driven by a singular statement moment, but by a sequence of carefully composed experiences that unfold gradually through movement and use.

Contextually, the residence sits in quiet dialogue with its lakeside environment.

Rather than competing with the natural setting, the design embraces it – drawing in light, framing views, and softening boundaries between interior and exterior.

This integration of old-world charm with modern sensibility allows the home to feel both rooted and refreshed, as though it has always belonged to its surroundings while confidently stepping into a new architectural chapter.

The McKenzie Lake Residence stands as a testament to the power of considered transformation. Through collaboration, craftsmanship, and a disciplined design vision led by Anna-Maria Wurz, a oncedated estate has been redefined into a timeless home of understated luxury – where every detail serves both purpose and poetry.

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NEXT EDITION: The Style Issue Published September 2026

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what grounds you

“Joy” Lever In Collaboration with Bannenberg & Rowell

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