HAUTE HABITAT

photo courtesy of Aida Soul

THE NUANCES OF DESIGN

HOW A CHARLOTTE-BASED DESIGNER BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO INTERIORS, AND BLENDS “OLD AND NEW” TO CREATE A SENSE OF TIMELESSNESS WITH ONE-OF-A-KIND FINDS.

By Katelyn Rutt

Dimension is a language Aida Saul—owner and principal designer of Aida Interiors— speaks fluently. Infusing bespoke elements into everything she does, Saul seamlessly blends her clients’ style with atypical, three-dimensional twists to add newness to tired spaces. Creating rarity is Saul’s specialty.

“To me,” Saul says. “The testament to a well designed home is when you are continuously surprised by a room you’ve seen many times. I gauge the success of my work by whether it’s timeless, beautiful, interesting and surprising.”

Inside her own abode, Saul is surrounded with interesting objects that she’s collected over the years—whether they be flea market finds, or antique shopping discoveries. As a result, the designer’s home is 80 percent vintage.

“My inspiration comes from so many sources,” Saul says. “Outside of all the local art galleries, museums and artistic and creative talent that Charlotte offers, I try to travel to inspiring cities stateside and abroad.”

After she’s ticked those boxes, Saul notes that she’s always up for a trip to the flea market.

“It’s so interesting to see what people in other cultures collect and sell,” Saul says. “I don’t think I’ll ever tire of the hunt. I think this desire to explore, see and collect informs my interiors.”

And that diverse portfolio of interiors has made the designer so sought after. A finished product for Saul is never cookie cutter, but rather a merge of aesthetics that result in something entirely of her own creation.

“I don’t aspire to any one particular style,” Saul says. “But rather, I find myself drawn to quality objects, whether artisanal, hand crafted or just plain well made. I love using antique or vintage pieces in all my projects, as it’s a way to add patina and the unexpected, and be a little more sustainable.”

A proclivity towards art is at the core of her design methodology, so Saul adds that she’ll always guide her clients towards pieces that will serve them twofold—enhance their homes and personal art collections.. However, final purchasing decisions are always left to the clients.

“The relationships I forge with my clients is probably the most endearing and rewarding part of my job,” Saul says. “Entrusting us to create an environment in which they feel most at home and comfortable and one that reflects their style and personality is why we give blood, sweat and tears to our projects. When we get the call to design their second and then their third property, it’s the ultimate compliment. We never take for granted how personal relationships and good design can impact our clients’ lives.”

As for Saul’s favorite project? It’s always her most recent undertaking.

“When my team and I immerse ourselves in a project,” Saul says. “It takes months to years to complete, and we have worked countless hours on the project thinking about the nuances of each decision. It’s hard not to love the most recent project when it has engulfed your life.” A DESIGNING DREAM

“My favorite item in interiors is lighting. It is as important as anything. Besides adding interest and personality, it adds low light, overhead light, mood light—basically all the layers the room needs to highlight the furniture, art and the subject.”

A VISIONARY CHALLENGE

“My most challenging item to place in interiors is high-end, custom rugs. It is usually very expensive, has a long lead time and requires the clients’ trust and imagination. Even with an actual 2’x3’ rug sample in hand, it’s hard to confirm that your vision is what is in the clients’ “mind's eye.” To fall in love with a sample is a much different experience than seeing a rug in person that you can fall in love with.”

WHERE ECO MEETS LUX

By Claudia Ricciardone Photography by Laura Sumrak, Photo Stylist Kendra Surface

A lush redwood forest rings with the sounds of nature--the song of a marbled murrelet perched upon the branch of a Douglas fir, the rustle of a black bear lumbering towards a huckleberry bush, the plop of a fat raindrop splashing into a puddle beneath the brush. It is a diverse and healthy ecosystem, where nature ensures its inhabitants provide the checks and balances needed to maintain forest health. Healthy forests help mitigate climate change as they soak up carbon dioxide which would otherwise be left in our atmosphere. They also provide oxygen, medicinal plants, food, and raw materials for humans.

What does the health of our forests have to do with interior design? Our everyday buying and lifestyle choices directly and indirectly impact the environment—for better or worse. But the good news is that you can be an important part of the equation in fixing the problem.

You have probably heard of “fast fashion”—cheap, mass produced, trendy clothing made with synthetic yarns that are designed to be disposable. Did you know that there is also “fast furniture”? To keep up with rapidly changing design trends, manufacturers produce inexpensive, inferior quality furnishings, sometimes using lumber from poorly maintained forests. In fact, many forests are clear cut and left barren. These products are frequently made with engineered materials, like particleboard, and chemicals, including Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), known to have harmful health effects on humans and the planet. In fact, these chemicals often make their way into our drinking water. According to the EPA, nine million tons of furniture end up in landfills every year. Most of those furnishings were made within the last 15 years.

In decades prior, furniture was expertly crafted in solid wood and/or sturdy metals and built to last for generations. If pieces were damaged, they were repairable and worth the repair costs. Unfortunately, furnishings produced inexpensively with materials like MDF often cannot be repaired and end up in the trash. And since it is relatively less costly to buy fast furnishings versus heirloom quality, consumers may end up chasing the trends more frequently as they tire of yesterday’s fad.

As an ecoluxe designer providing luxury interior design while keeping planetary and human health in mind, I recently completed two projects using green design principles. Clients Ashley and Ryan Smithson, a professional couple living in upscale SouthPark (Charlotte, NC) hired me to design and remodel their kitchen. Ashley states, “We wanted a cohesive and timeless design with quality products that would last (and stand up to small children). That felt like a very tall order while working full-time and raising our young daughters. Not to mention, we had no clue where to start sourcing outside of big box stores.”

One of the most important green design principles is to reuse what you already have. Although Ashley and Ryan considered tearing out their existing kitchen, I encouraged them to keep the cabinetry and paint it. Built with solid wood and lovely inset drawers and doors, it was still in good condition and could hold up to many more years of use. New quartz countertops, a classic handmade subway tile backsplash from Walker Zanger, updated hardware, gorgeous lighting, and fun styling took a dated kitchen to bright, fresh, and classic. When asked what her favorite part of the design was, Ashley replied, “Do I have to choose? The [Circa Lighting] pendants over the island. The shape is so unique and interesting. They are subtle but still make a statement. We also love how much brighter the entire space is.” Because the new elements have timeless appeal, the current kitchen has much more longevity than her old one.

When designing the Weddington, NC, home office of top Charlotte real estate broker Michelle Weeks of Helen Adams Realty, we utilized these same eco-oriented principals. Michelle had existing furniture pieces, including her office chair, desk, and swivel chairs. Although they worked well for her, she wanted a design plan to bring her office together because the original room felt unfinished. “I wanted a space for my office that felt chic, sophisticated yet functional and fun,” Michelle explains, “Being in real estate, I work odd and long hours, so I wanted it to look great and feel cohesive with our home.” Because every space needs inspiration, I chose a colorful pair of chinoiserie panels printed on grasscloth to be the star of the show. Although this fanciful European interpretation of Asian art first became popular in the 17th century, it’s a style that still translates well in modern interiors. A crystal chandelier by Circa Lighting provides a touch of glam.

To compliment the color palette of our inspiration, we chose a hand-knotted, 100% wool area rug from Artisan Rug Gallery in Charlotte. Wool is one of my preferred fibers for rugs. Not only is this natural material eco-friendly, but it’s also incredibly hard wearing. Since Michelle is a consummate hostess, it was important to source a rug that would hold up beautifully to the foot traffic of frequent guests and clients. Well made, hand-knotted wool rugs can last for generations with proper care, unlike the now ubiquitous polypropylene rugs that often end up in landfills after a few years of use. While there is a place for synthetics, such as outdoor rugs (especially those made of recycled materials), my first choice for sustainability are natural materials.

Although it is common for designers to only work on projects that allow them to start from scratch, using what clients already own (when it works) is a great way to be eco-friendly. Michelle adds, “I loved that [Claudia] was willing to work with a few pieces I already had. I love that she wanted me to trust her to know what’s best. I love that it was exactly what I wanted when it was finished.”

While the green design principles mentioned here barely scratch the surface of designing with human and planetary health in mind, I hope they inspire you to consider the power your purchasing choices have on the environment and human health. If you are looking for a designer or manufacturer who specializes in sustainable design, check out the Sustainable Furnishings Council’s website: https://sustainablefurnishings.org.

THE NEWEST JEFFREY ALAN MARKS COLLECTION

CELEBRATING COASTAL LIFESTYLE

Celebrated interior designer Jeffrey Alan Marks partnered with Hamptons Aristocrat to launch his third collection with fabric house Kravet. Known for his classic coastal interiors, the designer’s prints were inspired by his daily walks on the beach with his daughter James Aspen. With offices in East Hampton and Montecito, the inspiration for the Seascape collection came from a balance of West Coast calm with the East Ends bold water forces. Featuring watery hues and natural textures, the collection builds on his previous two collections which are seen through homes in Hamptons. To celebrate the launch Jeffrey partnered Hampton’s Aristocrat, who also catered his wedding, to curate an intimate backyard affair at the designer’s home with views overlooking Hook Pond.

The event showcased his latest fabric in the form of table linens, pillows, and beach chairs. Accented with tables from his furniture collection with Palecek and James own Seascape printed dress the event was a night to remember.

@jeffreymarksinc @hamptonsartistocrat @aritettamanzi

IT’S ALL ABOUT ADDISON ROSS!

LUX has fallen in love with the family owned and run British brand, Addison Ross, who’s iconic homeware collection sparks joy in every room.

- by Kelli Delaney Kot @KDHamptons

The Addison Ross brand was started in 1978 by David Addison Ross and his brother with a London Art Gallery and Picture Framing factory on the Scottish Border. They were soon joined by David's talented wife, Sarah. “Since these early days we have developed our range to include our best-selling enamel frames, lacquerware, and home accessories including our iconic scallop trays,” shares Sarah. “More recently we have been joined in the business by our son Harry, and I must say what a pleasure it is for us all to work together.”

Addison Ross offers a range of beautifully designed accessories that can easily update a room's decor, create stunning entertaining set ups or be a wonderful bespoke gift, with pieces built to last a lifetime. They also offer a complimentary photo framing service with all frames,

Guests at our LUX LIFESTYLE HOT LIST party were treated to Addison Ross frames and notebooks at the gifting table. which allows a customer to upload a photo and have it delivered in a frame of choice, gift wrapped and delivered all within 48 hours, allowing customers to easily gift love ones or fill their homes with special memories.

“We started supplying stores in the US over thirty years ago, and love their positive approach to our brand,” says Sarah. “Currently, we are stocked in over one thousand independent boutiques across the country and leading department stores including Saks, Bloomingdales and Yves Delormes.”

So what makes the Addison Ross home collection so special? Sarah shares, “Our products are designed to last a lifetime, and in line with our family values we want our products to bring joy to people by making their homes beautiful and bringing moments and memories to life.”

At our recent LUX LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 2022 HOT LIST event hosted at Kelli Delaney Kot’s home in the Hamptons, trays were styled with artisanal bites and the lacquered placemats were used to serve passed hors d’oeuvres prepared by Hamptons Aristocrat.

The Scalloped Lacquered Trays are also a signature Addison Ross must-have item. They come in three sizes in various colors and look fabulous on an ottoman, dining table, or sideboard with a floral arrangement. The smaller tray size is fantastic in a bathroom to display beauty products, on a desk, or in the kitchen.

Enamel Frames are a core product, they come in 24 gorgeous colors so there is something for every interior scheme from best selling white and chiffon grey through to burnt orange and aqua. Mix a landscape with a portrait, and add a contrasting texture frame to add depth and interest.

The Scallop Collection also offers a range of Lacquered Placemats for dinner parties, these are available in both the signature colors as well as in fun stripes. The size is perfect to peep around the edge of the plate, however, the brand is about to launch a new larger 16” size specifically at the request of US customers.

Lacquered trays and placemats compliment the Thibaut hydrangea wallpaper and Colleen

Ryder lantern in Kelli Delaney Kot’s pantry.

THE HEART OF THE HOME

MEET THE WORLD-CLASS DESIGNER KNOWN FOR HER SOULFUL APPROACH TO ASPIRATIONAL INTERIORS.

By Katelyn Rutt, photos courtesy Kathy Kou

Possibilities seem to emerge from thin air the moment Kathy Kuo enters a space. The designer, CEO, TV personality, and international home and lifestyle guru is renown for her holistic approach to decor—tackling the world of interior design with heart, soul and a heaping dose of high-touch experience.

Her unique style? Classically-inspired, with a layering of influences, cultures and textures.

Elegant, gracious, timeless, soulful and heart-opening.

Growing up as the daughter of a diplomat who relocated often, Kuo gained an early love for turning each new house into a home—often with personal touches and meaningful objects from travels. Kuo notes that these early years were when her appreciation for good design and high-quality products was first born, before her passions blossomed into a full career.

“The spaces I create and fall in love with most are bright, fresh, and of course, aspirational,” Kuo says. “I enjoy layering in unexpected elements, and look for a heart-opening nuance that can take a bit of European, Moorish or Asian influence, and make it smile-inducing.”

The Love Where You Live ethos of Kathy Kuo Home and Kathy Kuo Designs is deeply personal to the designer. Instead of pushing one specific aesthetic on her clients, Kuo understands that each set of design goals are different.

Her process is centered around nurturing the customer relationship, and embracing and elevating the personal style in each individual area.

A quick scroll through the dreamy @kathykuohome Instagram provides only a glimpse of the monumental work that goes into creating a finished space. Even so, it appears as though creativity is never in short supply for Kuo and her team.

So where does the designer derive her ideas? Kuo’s inspiration can best be understood by taking a step outside of everyday life.

“I’ve always found so much inspiration through my travels and the different cultures that I’ve been fortunate enough to experience throughout my life,” Kuo says.

While modeling in Milan, Spain and Germany after college, Kuo found herself entranced by the design cultures surrounding her.

“I was captivated by their history, and how their architecture and interiors were a reflection of their foundation and life values at the time, whether it be their religion or their rulers,” Kuo says. “They told their stories through art and the beauty that they built around them, many of which are still standing today.”

Kuo adds that another longtime influence is the memory of the artisan craftsmanship she encountered during her stint in product development.

“From Morocco to Portugal, to Cebu and Hanoi,” Kuo says. “Each filigree, brass dome or hand-woven rush seat tells a story of material integrity, creating beauty passed down through generations of artisans, tradesmen and cottage industries.”

During lockdown, proximity was a key factor in Kuo’s brainstorm process.

“I found inspiration from things close to me,” Kuo says. “Even something as simple as textiles. I love to comb through fabric websites for captivating patterns, color or textures to see what it inspires.”

But, sometimes, even the world-renowned designer is just like anyone else—turning to her phone, and apps like Pinterest and Instagram, to spark creativity.

“There are so many wonderful designers and artists out there, and now we have the ability to openly share our projects, milestones and support for one another in real time,” Kuo says. “It’s truly proven to be such an uplifting community.”

And milestones she has. Kuo notes that some of her proudest moments include her first sale, the inception of the brand in 2012, and the process of scaling a team and operations through the height of the pandemic—without the erosion of culture, values or principles.

“There have been so many highlights throughout this journey,” Kuo says. “Every quarter and year since inception feels like an ever-iterative learning of self-reflection and growth.”

But the momentum isn’t slowing any time soon. The designer—like a true visionary—understands the important balance between retrospection and forward-thinking. Ideas flow like water for Kuo, who is already knee-deep in her next creative project.

“I’m proud and excited to be back to my original roots, designing proprietary collections with our brand partners,” Kuo says. “I can’t tell you how intoxicating it is to get back to my original love of product and design after so many years of creatively building a team, but not a truly tangible product. This experience has reinforced my longtime love for material integrity, sustainability and traditional craftsmanship.”