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We partner with designers who inspire, create, and elevate spaces.
Featured: Medittera by designer Angela Harris—a collection of large-format porcelain tile with old-world charm.
Go Ahead, Overthink The Windows.
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For some homes, windows become more than a building element. All the more reason to start with the world's best materials and designs, sustainably crafted. To transcend function and open the world of stunning sight lines, playful light and museum-quality views. A tall order for a normal window, but not for windows that never compromise. Learn more >
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Experience the Difference: Club 1683
Gaggenau, maker of luxury kitchen appliances and the Home Kitchen Appliance Brand Partner of the MICHELIN Guide, prioritizes partnerships with its trade network. Club 1683 was developed to offer a select group of top tier industry trade professionals the opportunity to participate in the exclusive membership program promoting excellence in residential kitchen design. Qualified participants, including luxury designers, residential architects, kitchen studios, and single-family builders, gain access to personalized guidance, professional assistance, rewards and exclusive experiences.
For those who know the extraordinary.
Learn how to become a member.
The difference is Gaggenau
Featured: 5-Burner Gas Cooktop, Refrigerator, Convection Ovens, Espresso Machine, and Warming Drawer.
Simplicity Interior Design, Club 1683 member
Photo by Adahlia Cole and Colin Peck
Paint that painting experts trust.
Wall: Indi Go-Go CSP-565, Regal® Select, Eggshell
Trim: Indi Go-Go CSP-565, Regal® Select, Satin
A
Celebration of the Industry’s Leading Interior Designers, Architects + Professional Painters
WHEN IT COMES TO THE ESSENTIALS OF INTERIOR DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE, FEW ELEMENTS ARE AS VITAL AND VERSATILE AS THE FINAL FINISH. Paint is not just a backdrop; it is the essence of design, bringing depth, character and emotion to every room. It often tells stories of personal, historical and cultural significance while enhancing functionality with its durability and timeless appeal. For the industry luminaries who meticulously select colors, finishes and application techniques, paint is a powerful tool of expression and innovation.
This special feature celebrates the craftsmanship and work of 13 interior designers, architects and paint contractors who have forged strong partnerships, united by a shared passion for the transformative power of paint.
In collaboration with Benjamin Moore, meet the six talented teams across North America, whose collective expertise converges to create projects that are both beautiful and meaningful. Discover the magic that happens when creativity and teamwork meet as we introduce this year’s Faces of Design.
TORONTO, CANADA
COLETTE VAN DEN THILLART + MARIANO TORO
Layers of historical reference, touches of wit and personalized allure—these are the characteristics by which the work of designer Colette van den Thillart is known. Much of it comes to life with the addition of paint, and her partnership with contractor Mariano Toro is key. In discussing their creative collaboration, van den Thillart shares a recent project she and Toro completed. “For a spectacular house in Toronto with an interior dining room that had only one window, we chose Benjamin Moore’s Chartreuse 2024-10 in matte and painted all the walls and the ceiling in this ethereal color. The resulting space felt like an art installation; it is vibrant and dynamic during the day, but moody and poetic by nighttime candlelight.” Essential to the outcome was Toro’s application expertise. He shares the depth of it while mentioning another project: “For a client who wanted an almost glass-like finish, I came up with a method for creating a mirror effect that required many coats of paint and sanding between coats.” Alongside their love of unique colors and applications, van den Thillart and Toro share a passion for finding the perfect product to suit each client’s goals.
colettevandenthillart.com; optimustouch.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEX LUKEY
CHICAGO, IL
ERIN SHAKOOR + EDUARDO GONZALEZ FLORES
An interior designer’s passion for color, texture and finishes demands exceptional craftsmanship. Erin Shakoor, distinguished for her love of dynamic material juxtapositions, relies on the skill of Eduardo Gonzalez Flores to flawlessly execute her creative visions. “Eduardo helps us achieve every exacting step with flying colors (pun intended),” Shakoor enthuses. She emphasizes the positive outcomes of their work together by sharing a recent project: “For a whole-house design, our clients wanted their primary bedroom to feel, function and look like a luxury hotel suite. Our thought was to evoke intimacy. We decided that the custom-paneled walls, crown molding and ceiling should be painted in Olympus Green 679. The wood floors had a similarly rich finish, and together, they created a cocooning effect.” Regarding applying one hue throughout a space, Flores shares his techniques, saying, “When using the same color, I like to select a different sheen for each surface. For example, flat ceilings, eggshell walls and semi-gloss trims all in one shade.” One look at the duo’s joint portfolio showcases the stunning results of this thoughtful approach.
“ The before and after of a p roject, and seeing the clients happy with our work, is what I love most about this job.”
— EDUARDO GONZALEZ FLORES
CA
ADAM HUNTER + ASAF AMARIO
In the art of design, expert trade skills converge to create a cohesive project. Among these, two seemingly juxtaposed yet perfectly complementary approaches stand out: a grand vision for overall aesthetics and an eye for intricate details. The power of this combination is evident in the collaboration of Adam Hunter and Asaf Amario. “Each of us plays a role in ensuring the design and execution are seamless,” Hunter explains. “I manage the overarching concept and material selection, while Asaf and his team focus on the technical application.” Since their introduction through industry connections five years ago, the duo has discovered a profound alignment in style and work ethic, leading to numerous successful projects. One of their
favorite projects showcases their combined expertise. “We transformed a dining room by applying a pink hue with a gloss finish, creating a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that uplifts the mood,” Amario shares. “The glossy finish bounces light around, making the room feel bigger—it’s stunning and perfect for lively get-togethers.” Hunter adds, “We always start with the client’s preferred palette and then suggest modifications to suit the lighting and space. This approach brings a custom element, ensuring the final design exudes the homeowner’s personality.” This special partnership showcases the remarkable synergy between design expertise and meticulous precision in application. adamhunter.com; mastercustompainting.com
HOLLYWOOD,
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
NOZ NOZAWA + PHILIP STOREY
If there is one overarching theme that becomes apparent upon viewing the portfolio of designer Noz Nozawa, it’s color, color, color. For one so obsessed with bold hues, partnering with the right contractor is essential. Fortunately, Nozawa has found that in Philip Storey. “He is proud of the quality his team brings to the project and cares deeply about turning over a painted home that will last,” she says. The duo has been working together ever since a contractor friend introduced them in 2018. To hear each of them talk about why they love their jobs, the shared passion is obvious. “I get to help people bring to life a manifestation of who they are and what is most important to them,” Nozawa says. “Paint is always a necessary component and one of the most flexible ways to imbue a space with the exact nuance of a spirit or personality.” Storey weighs in, “We live in such a beautiful area with amazing nature, design and architecture. I love that my job gives me an opportunity to experience that and add to the beauty of our city by the bay.” nozdesign.com; redhillpainting.com
“When Noz asks us to work with her on a project, I get excited. It’s always new, it’s always incredible and I always finish by thinking I want that in my home!”
— PHILIP STOREY
PARK CITY, UT
SCOTT JAFFA + JOEL MARSH
For those dedicated to creating home, there is no greater reward than client satisfaction. Architect Scott Jaffa says it best: “When I see the expression of a client who feels like they’ve just stepped into their true home, I know my extraordinary team has put their talent into a space that will be enjoyed for generations.” That team includes Joel Marsh, painting contractor extraordinaire and longtime project partner to Jaffa. “We have been collaborating for seven years, ever since one of our mutual clients introduced us,” Jaffa says. “Our job is to transform dreams into reality, and Joel values bringing that joy to our clients too.” For the contractor, this goal depends on many factors, but thoughtful specification is certainly at the heart. Speaking to that, Marsh says, “In some cases, technical aspects dictate which product we choose. For example, many Benjamin Moore paints have open times that allow us to roll large walls, while still being scrubbable and accepting touch-ups. Other times, the homeowner’s lifestyle is top of mind. Regal Select is perfect for families with pets and children because it is durable, wipes easily and doesn’t mar.” jaffagroup.com; marshpaintinginc.com
“ When we complete a project, it should ne ver look like we were there; our goal is seamless perfection in producing one-of-a-kind homes.” — SCOTT JAFFA
The partnership of Tami Ramsay, Krista Nye Nicholas and Cassandra Pace underscores the impact of chance meetings and mutual admiration. “I heard about Cloth & Kind from one of my clients,” Pace says. “I went to the showroom to introduce myself, and they were hosting a paint demonstration for designers that day.” Being that Pace was visiting to share her services as a painting contractor for the two design pros, this was undeniably serendipitous. The trio has worked together on various projects in the years since. Ramsay and Nicholas share one of their favorite collaborative endeavors, saying, “We recently completed a large Queen Anne Victorian with Cassandra. Collectively, we decided to paint over an
oppressive, deep-red textural wallcovering in the family room rather than remove it. Benjamin Moore’s Stratton Blue HC-142 melted away the Victorian vibes while leaving our clients with an interesting story to share.” Anecdotes like this aren’t uncommon with these three, who share a love of bold paint projects. Ramsay and Nicholas chime in, “Every time our clients trust us to use color, we’re able to dramatically impact the mood of the space, not to mention create a more custom aesthetic. Whites and soft neutrals have their place, but we consider it a missed opportunity to design an entire home that lacks confident use of color.”
clothandkind.com; bellpaintingmi.com
ANN ARBOR, MI
TAMI RAMSAY AND KRISTA NYE NICHOLAS + CASSANDRA PACE
Advice FROM THE Experts
“Always consider the lighting when choosing colors. For high ceilings, use a lighter shade to make the room feel more expansive.”
-ADAM HUNTER
“Adding sheen to a trim indoors does give it more durability in the long run, and personally, I like a trim that stands out from the walls.”
-MARIANO TORO
“Benjamin Moore is consistently my go-to brand because 95 percent of the time, if I’m dreaming up a color in my head, they have a shade to exactly match my vision.”
-NOZ NOZAWA
“For years, I only used eggshell in damp areas. But then, Aura Bath & Spa came along, and it changed my entire world! The ability to get a washable matte in the bathroom is fantastic.”
“ When views are extra important, consider painting window frames in the same shade as the walls. They’ll fade away and let the view take center stage.”
-JOEL MARSH
-ERIN SHAKOOR
“Prep is the most important step. If you skip on proper prep, it will show in the finish.”
-CASSANDRA PACE
benjaminmoore.com
Oxford White
Dove Wing OC-18
Smoke Embers 1466
Adam Hunter and Asaf Amario’s favorite colors, respectively.
Beach Glass 1564
Black Beauty 2128-10
Waller Green CW-510
Noz Nozawa’s favorite color.
Moonshine 2140-60
Erin Shakoor’s favorite color.
Joel Marsh’s favorite color.
Tami Ramsay and Krista Nye Nicholas’ favorite color.
Colette van den Thillart’s favorite color.
SEP OCT
The little black book of all things new and fabulous in the local community.
Plucked from Luxe regions across the country, these memorable spaces speak of timeless elegance and autumnal ambience.
A look at the latest news and product collaborations from the industry’s buzziest creatives.
Pages from Mieke ten Have’s new book provide bountiful fall inspiration for the months ahead.
Market
Layered mood boards by stylist and photographer Robin Verrier feature trending color combinations alongside the newest fabrics, wallpapers, trims and tiles.
Discover the latest product nds that complement beautiful rooms from Luxe’s regional issues.
Rich materials, delicate details and warm, neutral layers prove today’s quiet color schemes are nothing short of intoxicating.
A minimalist approach to meet your modern tastes.
For those whose appreciation for precision is matched only by their passion for food, we offer our new Transitional Series — the next step forward in the luxury kitchen. From satin stainless-steel finishes to slim transitional handles to touchscreen functionality, discover a new expression of purposeful design. This is how we stay #TrueToFood.
FEATURES
Let There Be Light
218
Perfect
An Oak Park Victorian is brought back to its previous glory with some nods to contemporary living.
In Lincoln Park, a neutral palette and natural materials bring renewed energy to a 19th-century townhome.
Casual California style blends with British elegance in a modern interpretation of traditional design.
ON THE COVER: Tasked with marrying classic English style with California cool, designer Alissa Johnson used neutral colors as a backdrop to velvet Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel benches and elegant Visual Comfort & Co. sconces. Page 218
192
Parlor Tricks
Written by Michelle Brunner
Photography by Ryan McDonald
Styling by Kimberly Swedelius 204
Written by Maile Pingel
Photography by James John Jetel Styling by Darwin Fitz
Match
Written by Mikki Brammer
Photography by Ryan McDonald Styling by Kimberly Swedelius
FROM VISION TO VIEW
Thoughtfully crafted moving glass walls and windows redefine the boundaries of indoor-outdoor living, offering you the freedom to design, build, and live in spaces that inspire. Scan the QR code to learn more.
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DESIGN DIRECTOR
Pam Shavalier
ART DIRECTOR
Candace Cohen
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Brittany Chevalier McIntyre
SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR
Colleen McTiernan
JILL COHEN
EDITOR IN CHIEF
MANAGING EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Kelly Velocci Jolliffe
MANAGING EDITORS
Krystal Racaniello, Clémence Sfadj
HOMES EDITORS
SOUTHEAST
Kate Abney
COLORADO, LOS ANGELES, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Kelly Phillips Badal
PACIFIC NORTHWEST, SAN FRANCISCO
Mary Jo Bowling
ART
ART DIRECTOR
Maria Pluta
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Jamie Beauparlant
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Kyle Anderson, John Griffin-Santucci
SENIOR RETOUCHER
Christian Ablan
STYLE DIRECTOR
Kathryn Given
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Hannah Lavine
DIRECTOR, DIGITAL Ileana Llorens
SENIOR MARKET
EDITOR
Sarah Shelton
AUSTIN + SAN ANTONIO, DALLAS + FORT WORTH, HOUSTON
SANDOW was founded by visionary entrepreneur Adam I. Sandow in 2003, with the goal of reinventing the traditional publishing model. Today, SANDOW powers the design, materials and luxury industries through innovative content, tools and integrated solutions. With its diverse portfolio of assets, SANDOW has established itself as the largest design media company in the world which includes the following brands: Luxe Interiors + Design, Interior Design, Metropolis, DesignTV by SANDOW; ThinkLab, a research and strategy firm; and content services brands, including The Agency by SANDOW – a full-scale digital marketing agency, The Studio by SANDOW – a video production studio, and SURROUND – a podcast network and production studio. In 2019, Adam Sandow launched Material Bank, the world’s largest marketplace for searching, sampling and specifying architecture, design and construction materials. Other SANDOW brands include definitive authority on all things beauty, NewBeauty; luxury sampling platform, Test Tube by NewBeauty; Leaders Magazine; and exclusive private airport newsstand network, MediaJet.
There’s a perfect paint color for your space.
Finding it is simpler with Samplize.
• Peel-and-stick samples, each made with two coats of real paint.
• 1000s of colors from Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, and Farrow & Ball.
• Overnight delivery and no-mess application.
Order today and find your perfect color.
Room featuring Chrome Green HC-189 by Benjamin Moore
KATE KELLY SMITH
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT + MANAGING DIRECTOR
JAY BOUDREAU
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, SALES
TANYA SUBER
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS
NATIONAL SALES DIRECTORS REGIONAL SALES DIRECTORS
NATIONAL PUBLISHER
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HOME FURNISHINGS DIRECTOR
Sarah Smith
WEST COAST DIRECTORS
Lisa Lovely, Carolyn Homestead
MIDWEST + SOUTH CENTRAL DIRECTOR
Tanya Scribner
INTEGRATED MARKETING
VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING + DIGITAL STRATEGY Samantha Westmoreland
SENIOR MANAGER, MANUFACTURING + DISTRIBUTION Stacey Rigney
Luxe Interiors + Design®, (ISSN 1949-2022), Arizona (ISSN 2163-9809), California (ISSN 2164-0122), Chicago (ISSN 2163-9981), Colorado (ISSN 21639949), Florida (ISSN 2163-9779), New York (ISSN 2163-9728), Pacific Northwest (ISSN 2167-9584), San Francisco (ISSN 2372-0220), Southeast (ISSN 2688-5735), Texas (ISSN 2163-9922), Vol. 22, No. 5, September/October , prints bimonthly and is published by SANDOW, 3651 FAU Boulevard, Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Luxe Interiors + Design® (“Luxe”) provides information on luxury homes and lifestyles. Luxe Interiors + Design®, SANDOW, its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, editors, (Publisher) accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. The Publisher has neither investigated nor endorsed the companies and/or products that advertise within the publication or that are mentioned editorially. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims made by the Advertisers or the merits of their respective products or services advertised or promoted in Luxe Publisher neither expressly nor implicitly endorses such Advertiser products, services or claims. Publisher expressly assumes no liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by any purchaser or user for any products or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein and strongly recommends that any purchaser or user investigate such products, services, methods and/or claims made
La Menagerie Collection
Photography by Nick Mele
Fall into Color
It wasn’t my intention for our September/October issue to be about color. In fact, when choosing the homes we included, I didn’t have any particular theme in mind. But the design world has a slow way of revealing how people are currently living, and, as an editor, it’s my job to share that story with you.
The homes you’ll discover throughout these pages—many enveloped in rich burgundies, dark chocolate browns and mossy greens—are restorative and soothing. I believe that these projects’ palettes are rede ning comfort for homeowners across the country and making them feel more at ease in their spaces while connecting them to the things they love—whether it’s wine, food or nature.
The language of design is visual, and, in that spirit, we are also telling a seasonal story without words. In one of our Market features, our editors sourced beautifully crafted materials from the design world and collaborated to create a series of inspirational assemblages using both natural and man-made wonders. Each one encapsulates an autumn narrative in a way that will inspire.
Fall has become the most comfortable season, so allow us to be part of your relaxing moments and enjoy the wealth of inspiration in the pages ahead.
Jill Cohen Editor in Chief Follow me @jilleditsluxe
Capturing the color and light on location with photographer Lisa Romerein.
BESPOKE ITALIAN CLOSETS
The team at 210 Design House has been outfitting discerning homeowners with kitchens, baths, and furnishings for over 25 years. Stop in for a welcoming tour with one of our designers and learn more about MisuraEmme, exclusively found at our Chicago showroom.
SCENE
WRITTEN
ZLATA
LAUNCH
MÉDITERRANEAN RÊVERIE
Interior designer Claire Staszak of Centered by Design can trace her affinity for wallpaper to childhood. “I have loved it since I was a little girl,” she says. “I grew up with a room covered in two Laura Ashley patterns separated by a border.” After working with Isidore Leroy on a design for the 2023 Lake Forest Showhouse, she partnered with the French brand to launch her debut collection, Méditerranean Rêverie. Six patterns, including a mesmerizing print inspired by Venetian marbled paper and a charming boiserie, pay homage to European interiors. “The collection became a manifestation of my appreciation for European design, historical architecture and the fragile beauty that it exudes,” she explains. Staszak relished the opportunity to work with the storied brand, visiting their offices in Paris and printing facilities in Bordeaux, touring historical archives, and collaborating with Isidore Leroy artists and graphic designers. Coincidentally, as she was working on the collection, she and
her husband purchased a historical home on the North Shore with Mediterranean Revival details. “I guess without fully realizing it, the casual elegance, organic elements and connection to indooroutdoor living from the Mediterranean lifestyle have truly influenced my own style,” Staszak says. “It will be a full circle moment to see Paradis Perdu, with its enchanting garden, in my living room.” centeredbydesign.com; isidoreleroy.com
RETAIL THERAPY
MY MODERN OASIS
What started as a hobby reselling objects during the pandemic quickly grew into a business when Arthur Braud and Brysen Kawamura opened My Modern Oasis, a gallery and showroom specializing in antiques, vintage furniture, art and pottery. “We found a lot of joy in finding and staging items,” Braud says. Initially housed in the private studio of an old church, the shop recently moved to a 2,400-squarefoot showroom in a historic building in East Humboldt Park that can not only hold more inventory but also serve as a hub for events. Featuring 13-foot ceilings adorned with original Art Deco tin tiles, the space is inspired by both traditional and modern elements of design. “Each area of the showroom is meant to offer a different experience so everyone can find a space that resonates with their style,” Braud describes. “In a time so focused on online consumerism, I wanted to encourage people to visit for the ambience.” mymodernoasis.com
BY
KOZUL NAUMOVSKI | PRODUCED BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN
FIRST LOOK
“PHOTOGRAPHING
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT”
A new exhibit at the Driehaus Museum opening October 25 showcases Frank Lloyd Wright’s work through the eyes of the leading photographers who documented his career. Covering his projects from 1900 to 1959, the widely published images in “Photographing Frank Lloyd Wright” helped increase his visibility and contributed to his fame. Architectural photographers in the exhibition include Henry Fuermann and Sons, Julius Shulman, Hedrich-Blessing, Ezra Stoller, and Pedro E. Guerrero. Lesserknown photos of Wright’s work by Torkel Korling and Edmund Teske may prove a new discovery for many visitors. Also on display at the exhibit, open through January 5, will be images by Wright, an amateur photographer himself, depicting daily life and activities at his family’s Hillside Home School in Wisconsin as well as artifacts like Wright’s own camera and a chair he designed. Alongside images of his interiors, they aptly demonstrate his concept of design unity. driehausmuseum.org
DATEBOOK
ERIN SHAKOOR
Erin Shakoor is driven by her insatiable curiosity. After soaking up art and design fairs across the globe in the first half of the year, the interior designer, a member of the Black Artists + Designers Guild, returned to Chicago reinvigorated to create interiors with saturated color palettes, unexpected materials and fine art. Here, Shakoor takes us through her typical day in the city.
@shakoor_interiors
6:30 a.m. I’ll start the day by listening to an AbrahamHicks recording and meditating. Then it’s either strength training at the gym or a power walk through my neighborhood in Little Italy and University Village.
9:30 a.m. Grab coffee at La Colombe. My cold or hot order is always a decaf almond milk latte, no foam. From there, I’m off to Soho House to find a comfy spot from which to work (preferably near the pool). I’ll stay at Soho House for lunch, researching and developing new and current projects until then.
2:30 p.m. Visit a job site and/or call on clients and projectspecific vendors. I’ll also make time to visit showrooms like Brizo, Artistic Tile or deAurora, among others, to collect samples, assemble a quick mood board, discover new products, check dimensions, and, time permitting, head over to a workroom like A.S. Upholstery to check on the progress of custom orders.
5:30 p.m. I’m a fancy-nail girl and love J’s Blossom Nail & Spa on State Street for manis and pedis.
7 p.m. If I don’t have a networking or design event to attend, I meet a friend for dinner and drinks. One of my favorite restaurants is Bronzeville Winery—we always order the Brussels sprouts, sweet potato hummus and patatas bravas with a glass of House of Brown Rosé or a Watermelon Nojito.
deAurora
Soho House
Kashima. Michel Ducaroy Made in France
MEET THE MAKER
REST AND REPINE
WRITTEN BY MONIQUE
MCINTOSH
Carpentry was love at first sight for West Chicago-based custom furniture maker Chad Musgraves, who was introduced to the craft by his college roommate’s uncle. Those weekends whittling away in a basement workshop “sparked something in me,” he recalls. “I love using my body, hands and mind to transform raw materials into something beautiful.” This clarity emboldened him to open his own workshop, Rest and Repine, in 2015, where he creates bespoke furniture featuring modern, expressive silhouettes and finishes rooted in traditional craftsmanship.
Whether collaborating with designers or fashioning his own models, inspiration often starts “with excitement over a single detail that becomes the focus,” he says. Though his work leans modern, Musgraves is “not opposed to incorporating details from different styles,” he explains, like Shaker-style joinery, Arts and Crafts spindles or charred Japanese shou sugi ban finishes. He also employs other materials like brass, powder-coated steel, stone and smoked glass, but hardwoods ground his work, from all-American walnut, maple, white oak and ash to more exotic specimens like sapele and mahogany. “I love exploring unique processes that enhance wood’s natural beauty without making it muddy or opaque,” Musgraves says. He plays with ceruse finishes to highlight undulating wood grains; oxidizing solutions that turn maple gray and walnut black; and bleaching treatments “that make American hardwoods almost bone white,” he describes. “There are so many different ways to bring out its character beyond staining or painting.”
Such experimentation requires enduring patience, and sometimes heartbreak: the price of using a material with natural idiosyncrasies. But Musgraves embraces the “repining restlessness” of his craft. “I’m comfortable with the tension, knowing that there’s sorrow, but also joy, in everything we do.” @restandrepine
Photography by Mike Schwartz Photography
Transforming Interiors with Elegance & Style
RADAR
Step inside this season’s guide to stunning spaces, new product collections and a timely tome.
A Ray Booth project overlooking downtown Nashville boasts sweeping views and a sumptuous, livable palette. photo:
Open House
CULLED FROM LUXE ’S REGIONS ACROSS THE COUNTRY, THESE INVITING INTERIORS CHAMPION RICH MATERIALS AND UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE.
WRITTEN BY
GRACE BEULEY HUNT
Set against a cosseting backdrop of Farrow & Ball’s Down Pipe, an integrated Calacatta marble desk provides an airy counterpoint in this San Francisco home office designed by Viona Seshadri (above). studiovionainteriors.com
Tactile textures—from a linen headboard to an Apparatus sconce composed with natural stone—infuse this Laguna Beach bedroom by designers Lisa Berman and Melissa Rohani with a sense of earthy connection (top right). studiogutow.com
Designer Anna Knight channeled a collected-overtime ethos for her clients’ Chicago living room (right), mixing vintage furnishings with velvet, sisal, iron, leather and marble material notes. annaknightinteriors.com
In Palo Alto, designer Tiffany Mansfield embraced the dark disposition of a basement level rec room, deploying Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron as the base for sumptuous textiles and warm brass accents (left). mansfieldoneil.com
Rustic wood details, including reclaimed ceiling beams, Ochre appliance handles and an accent stool by artisan Ian Love, bring a cozy disposition to this Manhattan kitchen designed by Sean Anderson (bottom left). seanandersondesign.com
A powder room in Cardiff-bythe-Sea, California, offered the perfect opportunity for designer Amy Meier to showcase diverse materials, from hand-troweled Marmorino plaster walls to a deep green Esmeralda Quartz sink (below). amymeier.com
Art & Craft
TODAY’S TOP DESIGNERS AND ARTISTS DISCUSS THEIR LATEST VENTURES AND COLLABORATIONS MAKING WAVES ACROSS THE INDUSTRY.
Carmen Nash
When Carmen Nash received an Instagram message from Kelly Wearstler complimenting her aesthetic and inquiring about pieces for sale, her side hustle as a vintage furniture dealer quickly turned into a full-time career. However, Nash soon realized that she didn’t just want to present pieces of furniture; she wanted to tell a story that would emotionally resonate with her audience, thus beginning her art and design journey. Fast forward to today, and Nash has recently released a visually transporting lamp collection with Troy Lighting which, ironically, began with an admiring note on Instagram. Aptly named Folk and Flora, the rhythmic designs reference folk perspectives of the rural south, including those of Nash’s own family, while also nodding to the beauty and simplicity of Ocala, Florida, which she has long called home. “I discovered a lot about myself during the design process,” Nash explains. “But at the end of the day, connecting people to things they love is what impacted me the most.” hvlgroup.com, @loftandthought
photos: jeanne canto, courtesy troy lighting.
Jamie Bush
Since founding his Los Angeles-based rm in 2002, Jamie Bush has been recognized for his ability to blur the lines between interior and architectural design, as well as an eye for what he calls “historically driven modern design”—focusing on materiality, texture and natural forms. It’s this passion that has driven a portfolio lled with signi cant residential homes and a recent collaboration with Marc Phillips Rugs. “The designs are based on abstract paintings I made depicting studies of agricultural elds left fallow and eroded by nature,” Bush explains (see his Pepper rug, at left). The pieces have a hint of traditionalism and ample versatility: They live as easily in a classic Tudor as a contemporary home. jamiebush.com, marcphillipsrugs.com
Alyssa Kapito
Alyssa Kapito has made a name for herself crafting distinctive interiors rooted in minimalist classicism. On the heels of publishing her rst monograph, the New York-based designer is fast at work developing a second collection for AKI Editions, the small batch editions arm of her e-shop, Galerie by Alyssa Kapito. Envisioned as a gathering ground for ne antiques and bespoke collaborations with makers—like the above collection with Venetian glassware company Laguna~B— the designer plans to open a physical space in Manhattan this fall. “Galerie is a place that combines all of my passions,” Kapito shares. “I love art, I love design, I love fashion, and I love creating. I want it to be somewhere I can welcome you into my world!” alyssakapito.com
Barry Dixon
Dixon
It’s no secret that Dixon has a proven for heirloomworthy With a love of and an eye for Dixon uses his pieces as nishing touches in beautifully balanced rooms. While he has many
It’s secret that Barry Dixon has a proven penchant for crafting heirloomproducts. With a love of antiquities and an eye for modernity, Dixon uses his pieces as touches in beautifully balanced rooms. While he has many collaborations to his name, his latest collection of metal lighting and furniture with Iatesta Studio is particularly special. A passion project initiated by the Maryland-based studio’s owner and creative director, Matt Quinn, the compilation is a resurrection of Dixon’s iconic and archived designs, like the Synapse Pendant (above) which rst debuted more than a decade ago. “We already had a history of collaboration,” says Dixon, “so we were primed and ready to go.” barrydixon.com, iatestastudio.com
Jessica Helgerson
Most design elements aren’t accompanied by “friends,” but the table lamps in Jessica Helgerson’s new Bobine collection are meant to pair perfectly with a set of sculptures. are cute, whimsical the Paris-based designer. “I wanted to create elements that spark joy when you The light xtures—beauties in their created in concert with Portland artists Lynn Read and Kovel—are available as all-glass xtures hand-painted wood and ceramic models. Helgerson’s intention is for the pieces to light in a sometimeschallenging world. It is this joy that Helgerson brings to breathing life into historic homes, a specialty of the seamlessly mixes timeless elements contemporary framework, a using for a new rug set to launch this year. jhinteriordesign.com
collection are meant to pair with a set of glass snail sculptures. “They are cute, whimsical gures,” says the Portland- and Paris-based “I wanted to create elements that when you look at them.” The shapely xtures—beauties in their own right, created in concert with Portland artists Lynn Read and Andi Kovel—are as luminous xtures or wood and ceramic models. intention is for the pieces to be a in a sometimesworld. It is this same joy that to life back into historic a particular of the designer who mixes traditional and elements within a contemporary a formula she’s using for a new rug collection set to launch this year.
Workshop/APD
In the world of founded Matt Berman and Andrew Kotchen, is most a From interiors to and a space at this year’s Kips Bay New York Show House the rm has their hands in about “Early on, we felt uncomfortable de who we were,” says Berman. “But now we embrace it and realize is
In the world of design, Workshop/APD, founded by principals Matt Berman Andrew Kotchen, is most certainly unicorn. From residential and commercial interiors to architecture, hospitality, a stunning space at this year’s Kips New York Show House (right), the their hands in just about everything. we felt uncomfortable de ning who Berman. “But now we embrace it and realize design is uid. There’s a lot of crossover between disciplines.” Such crossover has led them to product design and collaborations with brands like Arteriors, with whom they are launching a second line in September. The assortment, which features pieces like the Roll chandelier (above), focuses on mixed materials and architectural details. workshopapd.com, arteriorshome.com
Amber Lewis
If the laid-back, California cool aesthetic had a poster child, Amber Lewis might be its face. As the principal and founder of Los Angeles-based Amber Interiors and Shoppe Amber Interiors lifestyle boutiques, her signature style, which she describes as “elevated, but lived-in,” counts cultlike devotees. Lewis’ unstudied, approachable chic is on full display in her recently completed Lake Arrowhead getaway (right), where the family room’s warm tones and layered patterns exude a mellow coziness. Her celebrated look has led to partnerships with Loloi Rugs and Visual Comfort & Co.; this fall, she adds even more to her 100-plus piece collection (including the Billings End Table, at left) launched in the spring with Four Hands—the brand’s rst designer collab. Also on the docket? A fth outpost of Shoppe Amber Interiors in Montecito, set to debut before the end of the year. amberinteriordesign.com, fourhands.com launched in the rst collab. Also on the docket? A fth outpost of Amber Interiors in set to debut before the end of the year.
Natural cork mural with metallic foil. Nagano in Terracotta
Seasonal Splendor
IN HER FORTHCOMING TITLE, STYLIST MIEKE TEN HAVE SHARES HER SECRETS FOR ENLIVENING YOUR HOME THIS FALL, AND ALL YEAR LONG.
A dreamy tableau in the mudroom at Mieke ten Have’s upstate New York property features gilded sconces, a Greek Revival mirror and bountiful blooms.
photo: frank frances.
“I think the term stylist is a nebulous and often confusing one. What I’d rather tell people is that I am a storyteller of sorts, always seeking to conjure emotion in rooms using objects, flowers, colors, and patterns as my tools,” explains creative extraordinaire Mieke ten Have in her upcoming book, Interiors Styled by Mieke ten Have Her debut tome covers the principles that guide her dreamy and evocative styling work as well as seasonal influences on decorating and design. In an excerpt (at right), ten Have dives into her take on autumnal inspiration at home. vendomepress.com
Fall offers perhaps the most interesting dialogue between the interior and exterior world; before the first hard frost, the dahlia beds erupt in color and soar in height I can scarcely keep up. In the fall, I turn to jewel-toned textiles, earnest American jacquard blankets, and graphic rugs of varied origin, which I drape over my dining table, channeling a Dutch master painting of a wealthy sea merchant’s interior. I shuffle pillows around on sofas and chairs. I see my textiles anew, and I’m always surprised by how adding a secondary pattern on a large, upholstered piece of furniture can sway the mood of a room.
LIGHT CREATES SANCTUARY
Shades and Lighting
Part of a home ecosystem. Designed by Lutron.
Christy Foran Founder / Owner
NOTABLES
Idlewood Electric Supply
Idlewood Electric Supply is Chicagoland’s premier lighting showroom and electrical supply distributor. With every project, Idlewood takes a customer-first approach for superior results.
idlewoodelectric.com
Christy Foran Design
Experienced. Passionate. Authentic. Christy Foran Design specializes in innovative solutions that reveal the personality of each client. Christy Foran leads a team fueled by unfaltering attention to detail, creating impactful interiors that are both layered and refined. christyforandesign.com
Sarah Coe Design
It’s all about functionality and fresh sophistication at Sarah Coe Design, which tailors each project with a seasoned expertise and understanding of how furniture selection, artwork and materials enhance each client’s daily lifestyle, in the present and beyond. sarahcoedesign.com
YOUR PROJECT IS OUR PRIORITY
Our showrooms are designed to inspire, with bath, kitchen and lighting choices from top brands curated in beautiful, hands-on displays. From product selection to delivery coordination, an industry expert will be there to support your project every step of the way.
Downtown Full Renovation with En Masse Architecture
Photography by Mikey Schwartz
a
collaboration
“UNVEILED”,
new
by Ryan Saghian for Studio M.
DISCOVERIES
Liaigre
The Costes x Liaigre capsule collection includes the Castiglione sofa, Carrousel side table, Mont-Thabor armchair, Rivoli reading lamp and Cambon chair—each of which was created for the five-star hotel Jean-Louis Costes and Christian Liaigre realized together. 212.210.6264
Häcker Kitchens
A harmonious balance of sophistication and innovation. The AV 6023 GL grooved cabinet fronts from Häcker Kitchens are an elegant and sustainable surface that grounds the kitchen with natural elements and visually-enriching textures. hackerkitchens.us
Roche Bobois
Designed by Christophe Delcourt, the Palatine table features a top resting on Roman travertine half-cylinders, joined by solid walnut crossbars, creating a timeless, architectural masterpiece. roche-bobois.com
Perennials
Perennials is proud to introduce Perennials Wallcoverings, the brand’s first category introduction outside of 100-percent SDA textiles. Boasting 17 designs across patterns, metallics, performance and textures, the debut collection offers understated elegance to any space. perennialsfabrics.com
STARK x Missoni Home
Experience the allure of the Missoni Layers custom rug, a meticulously hand-tufted masterpiece in wool, shiny nylon and lurex that showcases Missoni’s signature glamour. The intricate chevron pattern and subtle ombre detailing bring dimension and depth to any space. starkcarpet.com/missoni-home
MARKET
Influenced by bold color combinations, these pages feature the latest in luxurious fabrics and wallpapers, inspiring furniture finds and Luxe’s paint picks.
Seasonal Schemes
COLOR REPORT
Soft Landing
Clockwise from top right: Striations Rug
Fortina is a remarkable architectural system that looks and feels like real wood, but is made with aluminum and a hyper-realistic non-PVC surface. Available in over 100+ wood and metal finishes and 50+ profiles for interior and exterior applications. Now with integral lighting, larger, up to 2" x 12" profiles, and quicker delivery with Quick Ship.
Clockwise from right: Rolf Medium
Clockwise from top right: Mak Rug
PHOTO: JOSHUA MCHUGH.
Next Generation collection
CREMA CLARET
OCEANUS
VENUS
ATLANTIS AZUL
L UNARIA
Renaissance Women
In a pursuit as complex and nuanced as creating one-of-a-kind luxury homes, a multifaceted sort of expertise makes all the difference. At least, that appears to be the case when one hears the clients of Goesling Group rave about their experience with sisters Sarah Goesling and Rebecca Goesling, and their team. The firm is a multidisciplinary design collective, with specialties from bespoke design services to color and material development and everything in between. It all began many years earlier, in the duo’s childhood home. “Growing up with a mom who is an artist and a dad who builds antique motorcycles, we knew we’d end up in creative fields,” Sarah says.
“After getting a degree in interior design, I curated an intentionally diverse path to gain experience in complex remodeling, luxury furnishings, project management, sales and operations. After 10-plus years of experience, I took the leap to start Goesling Group.” Soon after, Rebecca joined in. “I pursued an education in industrial design, which led me to a dual specialization in color, material finish design and forecasting,” Rebecca says.
“After applying this expertise to the home goods industry for a decade, I joined Goesling Group. This shift has allowed me to expand the reach of my research and development from decor and appliances to full-scale spaces and brands.” Asked to share their influences today, they are unanimous in their response.
“Our client always has been and will be our greatest inspiration. We infuse each client’s personality into the design only after fully getting to know their values and lifestyle. Our deep connection ensures we deliver a product that is authentic yet elevated.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA SPALLER
Get To Know The Goeslings
• How do you stay abreast of new trends and styles? We are thorough, if not obsessive, in our research practices. We look beyond design trends, instead tracking long-term social and cultural shifts that will impact our clients. Every morning begins with a collection of global articles and images. We then analyze those inputs to identify bigpicture movements, envisioning how they will influence functional and aesthetic needs over time.
• Define “good design.” To us, this means it is made to live with and made to last. Our work is not designed to be photographed; its complex details, nuanced colors and rich textures grow more beautiful the more intimately they are experienced. Additionally, we preserve whatever possible, breathing new life into old designs and infusing timeless character into new ones, because good design should be as responsible as it is beautiful.
• What’s next? As of late, we find ourselves referencing traditional techniques like tambour fastening, while exploring new material advancements such as lab-made spider silks. We’re excited to continue diving into the old and the new.
“We bring the client in as an active participant in the process. The honest exchange of ideas removes any ego and makes room for designs that make the client feel seen, heard and understood.”
GROUP 847.507.7614 | goeslinggroup.com goeslinggroup
The brand-new Marni chandelier by Alora Lighting is comprised of a jewelry-like chain of cut crystal beads. Adorned with Natural Brass hardware, this statement chandelier turns heads with its impeccable glow. Available now at Littman Brothers.
The Anders Collection is a modern take on a traditional style. With the use of light guide technology mixed with Art Deco-inspired structures, we create a truly decorative light guide chandelier. Available now at Littman Brothers.
FITTED CABINETRY
LIVING
Today’s standout kitchen and bath projects and products embody the trend towards warm, rich interiors.
photo:
Neutral Nuance
THERE’S NOTHING MINIMAL ABOUT TODAY’S TONAL, TEXTURED TAKE ON KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGN.
WRITTEN AND PRODUCED BY GRACE BEULEY HUNT AND SARAH SHELTON
Soft maximalism. Easy elegance. Quiet luxury. Whatever verbiage you prefer, there’s no denying that neutrals are having a renaissance. With the days of bland white kitchens and baths largely in the rearview, serene yet richly layered and thoughtfully detailed schemes are emerging in their stead. Take this jewel box kitchen in New York’s Hudson Valley: Awash in artisanal touches and historical references, it’s a feast for the senses—and the perfect embodiment of neutral’s impactful new mood.
Warm white tones—including clé zellige tiles, marble from BAS Stone and cabinets painted Farrow & Ball’s Shadow White—converge in this upstate New York kitchen. Designer Isabel Brewster crafted a shallow ledge to display treasured objects, which are illuminated by Chapman & Myers picture lights.
The Breakers, the Vanderbilt family’s iconic Newport, Rhode Island, “cottage,” might seem like surprising inspiration for a Hudson Valley farmhouse. But as chance would have it, designer Isabel Brewster was fresh off the Newport Cliff Walk home tour circuit when she signed on to renovate a young family’s stately Greek Revival in Rhinebeck, New York—and the threads between the two historic dwellings proved serendipitous.
For the kitchen—a sun-drenched space with a modest footprint that was stripped down to the studs and reimagined alongside general contractor Piotr Ottenbreit of PO Design Creation—Brewster envisioned a warm white scheme rooted in classicism, layered with patina and accented with modern elements. Inspired by The Breakers’ kitchen’s ceiling-height subway tiles, Brewster clad the upper walls and integrated range hood in perfectly imperfect Moroccan zellige tiles that shimmer in the light. Below, a sleek floating ledge and continuous white marble backsplash and countertops lend a decidedly contemporary perspective.
The room’s robust cabinetry program offers another discrete historical homage with its inset-style paneling, which Brewster describes as “transitional” and “Shaker but not ” thanks to the enhanced beveled detailing. Anchoring the space, the designer once again took her cues from the Breakers’ kitchen, channeling its large, freestanding center table for her design of an oak island stained chocolate brown.
Sanding the original wide plank pine floors to their natural state finished with a subtle whitewash creates a bright base layer for the room and unlacquered brass taps and hardware garnish the scene with a timeless living finish. A cherry red pendant suspended above the island is the lone saturated dissenter in the creamy milieu.
Upstairs, the primary bathroom is similarly reverential of history, taking cues for its walls from hand-carved paneling the designer spied in a circa-1700s home in Maine. “I thought this was such an interesting idea and a way to have ‘artwork’ without actually hanging artwork,”
An Urban Electric Co. pendant specified in Benjamin Moore’s Raisin Torte hangs above a custom oak island designed to evoke that of The Breakers mansion in Newport, Rhode Island (left). Brass Rejuvenation hardware dots the drawers (below).
Brewster explains. Here too, the designer chose a warm white paint for the millwork, complemented by bright white ceilings, a monochrome clawfoot tub and crisp, limestone-tiled floors. “I love the mixing of whites in this space—a flat white ceiling, warmer white walls and white floors. There’s a gradation of shades moving up the walls based off the white tones found in the marble.”
Said marble—which wraps the walk-in shower and tops the vanity the designer had fabricated from a vintage midcentury dresser—is a bold cut of Calacatta Viola Breccia. “It makes such a statement with the burgundy undertones,” gushes Brewster, who opted to pair the striking stone with exposed piping, yet again in an aged brass finish, “because that’s ho w bathroom plumbing actually looked and worked in period homes.”
While quiet, the finished spaces thrill with their many tone-on-tone material choices and hand-crafted details. When it comes to creating wow factor within a neutral palette, pulling layers of patina from the past, it seems, is an inspired place to start. isabelbrewsterinteriors.com
Farrow & Ball’s Slipper Satin blankets the primary bathroom, where an antique dresser was retrofitted as a vanity and topped with Calacatta Viola Breccia from United Marble. A tub from Vintage Tub & Bath adds a historic touch.
UPHOLSTERY LEATHER
MATERIAL NOT ES
HIGH-TOUCH PRODUCTS THAT ELEVATE EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES.
GLOBAL VIEWS
Australia-based hardware company, Bankston Architectural is making its U.S. debut with the launch of a buzzy collaboration with New York-based design studio, Civilian. The 12-piece Hemispheres collection—named after the two parts of the world from which the and and Portoro bankston.com companies are headquartered—combines architectural and artistic flair with functional, standout hardware. Curving shapes and circular elements can be found throughout the line of levers, knobs and pulls as evident in the H03 Knob on Half Moon in Portoro Gold Marble on Smooth Nickel (right).
TAPPED OUT
With matte-black plumbing and hardware here to stay, Brizo is now o ering its beloved Kintsu bath collection in the popular fi nish. Named for the Japanese method of Kintsugi, which marries cracked pottery with gold, Kintsu combines Japanese wabi-sabi principles with a minimalistic Scandinavian ethos. Here, the discreet Widespread Lavatory faucet is shown in the matte black fi nish with wood inserts for a balanced and Zen aesthetic. Mother-of-pearl and concrete detailing are also available. brizo.com
STONE FACED
Coming o the heels of their debut line of mantels, Marmi is leaning further into product with the launch of Editions No. 2: Bath. Known for their custom natural stonework in high-end interiors, Marmi’s 20-piece bath collection features everything from vanities to pedestals to tubs in an impressive 17 stone choices. Here, the Hamilton Demilune Vanity in Picasso marble, designed by the brand’s creative director Neil Zuleta, is complete with burnished brass detailing, open side shelving, a fl uted front and walnut-lined drawers. marmistone.com
Photography by David Turner
All in the Mix
VARIED TEXTURES MAKE A STRIKING STATEMENT IN A MARYLAND BATHROOM DESIGNED FOR DECOMPRESSION.
photo: stacy
zarin goldberg.
Greige tiles, Formica vanities, a quintessential 1980s sunken jacuzzi: The bathroom, located in Clarksville, Maryland, was begging for a rewrite and designer Elizabeth Reich was happy to oblige. Spurred by her client’s love of Italy, Reich composed a surprising symphony of materials that bridges classic and contemporary for a transportive retreat. Below, the designer breaks down the details.
Wow Factor: My client wanted an unusual marble that reminded her of traveling abroad. We fell in love with this Calacatta Vagli Viola with its wine-colored veining and milky background. She wanted it everywhere at first, but we evolved to making it a focal point on the vanity, sinks, shower and casings.
Grounding Influence: The wood tiles are by Tabarka Studio, which warm up the room and add another element of texture and pattern. I fell in love with this monotone parquet; it’s simple yet interesting.
Hand Crafted: The walls are Venetian plaster by artisan Kelly Walker to give an aged feel, like something you would see in Europe. The pale umber color brings out the subtle golden tones in the marble.
Custom Content: The bespoke vanity was designed and built from white oak by a local cabinetmaker. The solid brass hardware is in a burnished finish by HRL Brass, and we loved the rectangular backplates which give them an extra cool factor. The standalone cabinet is also made of white oak, but the panels are reeded. Same material, different vibe! crosbyjenkins.com
Calacatta Vagli Viola marble from Gramaco Stone Source steals the show in this Maryland bathroom, where Visual Comfort & Co. sconces flank Arteriors mirrors. Wood tiles from Tabarka Studio and plaster walls by Kelly Walker of Artstar Custom Paintworks add texture.
photos: stacy zarin goldberg.
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WE TRANSFORM LIVES THROUGH SLEEP.
“BETTER SLEEP EQUALS A BETTER LIFE! HAPPY, HEALTHY CLIENTS ARE WHY WE GO TO WORK!”
MARY PAT WALLACE, FOUNDER
When someone narrows down to a specific niche and makes it their career, it’s usually because they have a deep passion for it. For Mary Pat Wallace, that unique domain is great sleep. “We spend a third of our lives in bed,” she enthuses. “The quality and length of one’s sleep directly impacts one’s health. We should all make sleep a priority.” Wallace has been helping Chicagoans make that happen for nearly 20 years, ever since she opened the first Hästens concept store in North America. A few years later, she expanded to have a storefront in Winnetka as well. Today, Dallas, Texas, and Naples, Florida, are lucky enough to access the full experience at The
Luxury Bed Collection, too. “Our goal is to elevate the process of choosing the right mattress for your best night’s sleep,” Wallace says. “We care about our customers and vendors, and we take those relationships personally.” Asked to elaborate further on her enthusiasm for the perfect mattress, Wallace says, “Someone once asked me, ‘If you could only keep three objects, what would they be?’ My answer was simple: my mattress, my espresso maker and my phone. With a great night’s sleep, a cappuccino and a phone to communicate, I can do anything. Our culture spends money on so many things we never use. Truly great investments tend to come down to just a few key things.”
CHAMPIONS OF SLEEP
Before establishing The Luxury Bed Collection, Wallace worked in the broader furniture industry. Her experiences working with the best upholstery, case goods, fabric and lighting companies cultivated a keen eye for design, materials, quality and value. Now, she brings that expertise to her sourcing process for TLBC. Here, Wallace shares a quick breakdown on the premier brands one finds on her showroom floors.
HÄSTENS
It all began with a concept store surrounding this brand. I saw a fivegeneration Swedish family focused on one thing: making the most comfortable natural mattresses. They offer many options for different needs.
VISPRING
Known as England’s premier mattress manufacturer, this br and has been using pocket springs since 1901. Today, it still produces these the same way, for mattresses that bring the comfort and durability of oldworld cra smanship.
THE PILLOW BAR
Anyone who has ever slept terribly in a hotel knows that pillows have a surprising influence on sleep too— and what works for one person could be terrible for another! This brand understands that personal element and designs many options so everyone can find something that works.
SFERRA
Last but certainly not least, once you find your perfect mattress and pillow, you’ll want some incredible linens, too. Sferra’s luxurious Italian linens come in many styles based on feel, fiber, weight and finishing.
PATAGONIA GLACE
CRISTALLO ROSEBLUE
This This space was designed by Kesha Franklin of Halden Interiors space was Kesha Franklin of Halden Interiors exclusively for ABC Stone. for ABC Stone.
Travel to an amazing place—home. The sanctuary where your family escapes the world. The garden full of blooms that tantalize your senses. The place where friends come to play. Let Mariani help plan your escape home--whatever it may be. From the original design, to the care that will keep it looking beautiful for years, we'd love to help. With our award-winning team, the sky really is the limit. So, let’s start the conversation. see more
MARIANI LANDSCAPE®
KITCHEN + BATH
WHERE THE PROS UNITE PRACTICALITY AND PANACHE
Among the many spaces that contribute to an enjoyable home, there are two which reign supreme in the mind of every homeowner and design professional: the kitchen and bath. These all-important environments demand function, form and thoughtful floor plans, and the experts found within these pages are showcasing it all.
KEEP READING TO CATCH UP ON
AND TECHNIQUES.
M Viamontes Architecture + Interiors
Amy Carman Design
Being an interior designer is so much more than choosing textiles and pairing patterns—it involves a hefty dose of analytics and planning, too. For a prime example, look no further than Amy Carman Design, where interior architecture has become a major selling point. “This is our biggest strength,” says Owner and Principal Designer Amy Carman. “Interior architecture is especially essential in the kitchen and bath, where thoughtful layouts should be tailored to the owner’s every need.” Indeed, through ACD and its sister contracting firm, Carman Made, Amy Carman and her team bring custom concepts to homes of every style. “We’ve worked in every aesthetic, from modern to historic, and we always help our clients unlock the unique possibilities of their environment,” Carman says. “Our goal is to create layouts that are visually balanced and highly functional, but are also packed with character.”
Eclectic Leanings
Asked for her K+B material trends report, Carman says, “We are seeing warmer, moodier palettes and statement materials like handmade tile, wire-brushed wood finishes, leathered stone and patinaed brass. There is a big shift toward spaces that not only look authentic, but feel like it in a tactile sense.”
Culinary Ethos
“Designing a kitchen that functions well is essential,” Carman enthuses. “Kitchens are spaces we work in, after all. The layout must be smart— appliances, utensils and tools should all be within easy, intuitive reach. The art of what we do is to compose spaces that serve a purpose and are also beautiful to behold and experience. A kitchen should be both satisfying to work in and a joy to live in. It should balance both open flow and intimate comfort. We always create strong visual connections to adjacent spaces, while making sure that the kitchen can feel cozy and magnetic. It shouldn’t be cut off, because it’s the heart of every home. The pe rfect kitchen is open and accessible, but with a character and warmth that is all its own.”
Top Tall cabinet doors are trimmed with handsome, full-length cremone bolts and include brass mesh center panels, inviting a peek through to the client’s growing wine collection.
Left This thoughtfully-designed kitchen dovetails into the original 1930s architecture with beamed ceilings, hand-glazed terracotta tiles and an abundance of millwork. Right Deep emerald green cabinets line the kitchen’s perimeter and glossy, white-boxed ceilings add visual height to the space.
Photography Ryan Hainey
Dan Craig Cabinetry
Upon deciding to renovation the kitchen or bath, cabinetry is an immediate factor that consumes the planning process. A major part of both the aesthetics of these spaces and their all-important functionality, cabinetry is at the heart of every update and edit. Enter, Dan Craig and the team at his namesake firm. “I have been in the cabinet industry for more than 40 years, and my mission is to provide the highest quality of custom cabinets at a fair price,” Craig enthuses. “Our philosophy is to treat all clients with respect and to understand their viewpoints, as we help them bring fully custom cabinets to life with near unlimited customization.” That last part isn’t an overstatement. Craig gives the example of a hidden safe with a removable panel tucked under a toe kick, but the message is simple: Dan Craig Cabinetry can and has completed personalization of almost any nature one can imagine. Craig says, “Our designers have a minimum of 30 years’ experience, and it shows.”
Color Report
As the surface with the biggest visual footprint in the kitchen, cabinetry is a sure tell of the color trends taking shape at any given moment. Craig weighs in, “Whites and grays are still popular, but losing strength to hues like royal blue and hunter green.”
The Quality Approach
“The custom cabinets we build are handmade locally, and we use the top-quality Americanmade materials and hardware,” Craig says. “Even our plywood is domestic, while most other companies use imported materials to cut costs. We use only Blum soft-close hinges and full-extension soft-close drawer slides with handmade solid hardwood dovetail drawers.”
On-Trend Selections
Craig elaborates on the design choices clients are loving. “White oak cabinets, which can be customstained to complement any design concept, are popular. Clients also love inset cabinets, which are custom cabinets where the front of the doors are flush with the front of the face frame.”
Top For this stunning kitchen, the cabinets were custom-made locally using only the highest quality of materials sourced in the U.S., including domestic maple prefinished plywood and solid hard maple face frames. The doors are Dan Craig Cabinetry’s most popular style: the luxury recessed panel doors with an applied molding. Blum integrated soft-close hinges and undermount soft-close drawer slides, which are the cherries on top.
Drury Design
At the heart of the industry’s most beloved designers is usually one main quality: enthusiasm. Start a conversation about kitchen and bath design with Gladys Schanstra, and one immediately picks up on this element of passion. The CEO and Creative Director of Drury Design, which has served the greater Chicago area for more than 35 years, overflows with joy and expertise at every turn. Whether she’s talking up new technology from top brands—Kohler’s DTV+ shower interface is life-changing and Wolf’s steam oven is a baker’s dream—or discussing how her team engineered a custom-fitting frosted glass to reduce glare. Of course, the central focus of her work doesn’t lie in innovative products or inventive customizations. “To us, listening combined with that expertise is what results in success,” Schanstra says. “We’re open-minded and go to great lengths to understand each client’s needs, wishes and problems. This is how we consistently surpass expectations.”
Favorites Features
Schanstra shares three kitchen and bath go-tos everyone seems to enjoy.
• The Galley Dresser, a mega holdeverything station for The Galley’s Workstations, is a showstopper of style and functionality.
• Natural stone in showers brings the grounding element of nature to this everyday relaxing experience.
• Steam showers combine the functionality of a steam room with the shower—they just make sense.
Yes To Alfresco
Clients often ask if the Drury Design team designs and installs outdoor kitchens. “The answer is yes,” Schanstra says. “This area of our business is growing quite a lot, and we enjoy creating highly-functional outdoor living spaces that our clients love. We work with Kalamazoo and Urban Bonfire to make it happen.”
Top Drury Design removed a wall to fuse an upgraded dining area into this kitchen. Note the super-thin porcelain countertop and the raised island base. Left The Galley Dresser anchors this timeless kitchen near Chicago, blending seamlessly with Drury Select Custom Cabinetry.
Right Modern functionality meets traditional inspiration in this kitchen remodel near downtown Chicago.
Photography Eric Hausman
M Viamontes Architecture + Interiors
Michael and Mindy Viamontes, Founders of M Viamontes Architecture + Interiors, blend their architectural expertise with Principal of Interiors Jennifer Durand’s sophisticated design palette. Applying their complementary skillsets, the trio closely collaborate on every detail of each project they undertake. “We are a boutique firm specializing in bespoke historic renovations and additions,” Mindy says. Having a practice that combines architecture and interiors allows the studio to think outside of the box. “When undertaking renovation projects, we are unrestrained by things like existing windows and load-bearing walls,” Michael adds. This approach allows M Viamontes to deliver transformations that are dramatic and thoughtful, at the very highest level. Jennifer says, “We believe that doing our best work will build our reputation for design excellence and allow us to continue to bring in high-caliber projects.”
A Firm Signature
“Much of our work is in historically significant buildings and landmark districts,” Michael shares. “When it comes to designing kitchens and bathrooms in these unique places, we develop solutions that respect the existing architecture, while effortlessly enhancing modern living.”
The Must List
Mindy shares the materials and products that deliver the ultimate kitchen or bath.
• Natural stone and marble stand the test of time, age gracefully and elevate any project.
• Quality plumbing fixtures that offer ageless style and hold-up with daily use are well worth the splurge.
• Premium lighting. Whether we are selecting bespoke decorative or recessed fixtures, quality lighting enhances a home’s overall look, feel and function. WE CREATE TIMELESS, LIVABLE SPACES THAT CONNECT THE INTERIORS WITH BOTH THE ARCHITECTURE AND THE SURROUNDING ENVIRONMENT.”
Top The butler’s pantry in this 1930s home in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, is perfect for pets, kids, crafting, flower arranging or cleaning up after a day in the garden.
Photography John Stoffer of Stoffer Photography
Marble Emporium Inc.
847.205.4000
When selecting natural stone for a kitchen or bath project, one often seeks a large on-site variety to explore—there is just something about seeing these impressive creations in person before a purchase. Still, formatting and installation expertise may be just as important. Enter, Marble Emporium Inc. “For more than 37 years, we have specialized in designing and creating custom-made stone works for architects’, interior designers’ and homeowners’ residential and commercial endeavors,” says Design Consultant Tricia Hehr. “We strive to import, fabricate and install the finest natural stone for demanding projects, and we accomplish this by implementing a combination of the latest stone processing technology and old-world, by-hand artisan skills.” From countertops to wall cladding, custom fireplace surrounds and unique design features, Marble Emporium brings the beauty of natural stone to homes throughout the Midwest.
Infusing Warmth
“Recently, we’ve seen an increase in warmer tones,” Hehr shares. “People still like marble with that classic white background, but taupe and gold veins are gaining popularity alongside the everbeloved gray veining. Taj Mahal quartzite, with its overall warm coloring, is also making a comeback. Shades of green and blue that you’ll see in Greek marbles are getting a lot of attention right now too, and you’ll notice manmade quartz companies are adding golds, greens and blues into their productions.”
Innovation Equals Beauty
Hehr offers a few examples of how game-changing technologies are enabling new design elements.
• We can now create full-height backsplashes with an inlay on the CNC. For instance, if the client uses one material for the perimeter and another for the island, we can use both for the backsplash by cutting a custom shape under the hood.
• There are greater possibilities for the types of grooves and fluting we can create to add dimension to an otherwise simple stone.
• Im agine wireless charging available on the surface of your countertop? We can now do this by grinding down the underside to make it thinner and then putting charging pads underneath.
Far left This custom fireplace mantel was designed at Marble Emporium from honed Calacatta Monet marble. Top right + Bottom right Orren Pickell Building Group crafted each of these kitchens by designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, both of which feature gorgeous stone varieties.
Photography Top right + Bottom right by Mike Kaskel
Melissa Denys Interiors
For many homeowners, designing a custom kitchen and bath is the ultimate dream. Happily for the clients of Melissa Denys Interiors, their excitement and enthusiasm is a major part of the process. “I am big on collaboration, with my clients and with craftspeople,” says Melissa Denys, who founded her namesake firm in 2018 after working for a few luxury design houses and then earning her master’s degree in interior design. “Everyone brings something to the table. I have some clients with really incredible taste and such a knack for design. It is always so fun to team up and bring their visions to life.” This approach plays beautifully into Denys’ design philosophy, which hinges on personalization. “I always hope for a pretty outcome, but the number-one priority is that the space functions for the client and their family—that it is a place they love to be. I don’t try to force design elements on clients if it doesn’t feel like ‘them.’”
Key In The Kitchen
Denys shares three materials she often recommends and finds her clients love.
• I am a big fan of using quartzite countertops in the kitchen. Clients with young children can still select a gorgeous, unique natural stone and be confident in the durability of it.
• Mesh inset details on cabinetry add a little texture and interest to the space. I find this works especially well in a more neutral kitchen.
• Brass hardware is an easy way to add some warmth to the space. I have been mixing metals and finishes in the kitchen a lot these days.
IF YOU ARE CRAVING A QUICK, EASY REFRESH, PAINTING EXISTING CABINETS A NEW AND FUN COLOR IS A GREAT UPDATE.”
Top This family kitchen in Evanston is light and bright, but with a few warmer accents. Far left A true jewel in its Lincoln Park home, this powder bath wows. Center Created in collaboration with the homeowner, Bailey Morris, this butler’s pantry in Winnetka has a place for everything. Left The result of MDI working closely with the homeowner, Bailey Morris, this kitchen is transitional and cozy.
Photography Gene Yoon
Precision Stone Design
When one is pursuing a kitchen or bath renovation, one of the most exciting parts of the process is selecting the surface materials. Of course, it can be a daunting task too, given the need for a surface to meet both functional and aesthetic needs. Enter, Precision Stone Design. Based in Elk Grove Village, the countertop manufacturer and stone purveyor boasts an extensive on-site inventory of top-selling natural and man-made options, bringing convenience and cost savings to local homeowners and design pros—and making the shopping process more fun. “We even have a complimentary countertop design software that ensures optimal pattern flow and vein matching,” says Principal Gina Saran, who founded the company in her home office 13 years ago. “We pride ourselves on being a comprehensive solution for all our clients’ countertop needs.”
Top Silestone Eternal Noir quartz brings the dark and captivating vibes this homeowner wanted to both the countertops and backsplash.
Photography Jeffrey Johnson Pictures
On The Cutting Edge
When they aren’t helping clients select and size their stone surfaces, Saran and her team are on the cutting edge in another way: immense innovation. She enthuses on one of their most popular inventions: “We’re proud to offer wireless undercounter charging for all Qi-enabled devices with select countertop products like marble and porcelain. Our undercounter wireless chargers not only save space, but also eliminate the hassle of dealing with wires from traditional chargers.”
Refreshing Trio
Saran shares her three tips for giving the kitchen or b ath a quick facelift.
• Replace worn-out countertops with new materials like quartzite, soapstone or marble-looking quartz for an updated look.
• Install a patterned marble backsplash with a durable soapstone countertop to add visual drama while having an easy-to-maintain kitchen.
• Paint or reface your cabinets for an instant transformation. Choose a fresh, modern color to brighten the space or go for a classic neutral if timelessness is most important to you.
Up + Coming: BEC
Asked to share what’s next for Precision Stone Design, Saran points to Borrowed Earth Collaborative. She shares, “A brand that focuses on bespoke stone panels and tiles, it was created at the intersection of art, architecture and materiality.”
Beautiful surfaces that are well crafted and expertly installed set the ideal stage in any kitchen or bathroom. As a third-generation, family-owned-and-operated business, Sprovieri’s Custom Counters has specialized in the fabrication and installation of natural stone, quartz and solid surface materials for their residential and commercial clients for more than 60 years. “We know that each and every project that comes across our desk is unique and important,” says Sales Manager Danielle Sprovieri. “After all, ‘custom’ is our middle name.” That client-centric approach combined with a commitment to artistry sets SCC in a class apart. General Manager Joe Sprovieri adds: “Whether it’s mitering an edge so that it appears thicker, creating an eye-catching design on a waterfall leg or full-height backsplash or crafting a custom stone sink with beautiful veining, we do it all with precision and pride.”
Beneath The Surface
What are the keys to creating an exceptional kitchen or bath? Danielle and Joe Sprovieri share their insights and expertise.
• What is your primary rule for great kitchen and bath design? Joe: You live, work, play and relax in your kitchen and bath every day, so pick materials that inspire you. Don’t be afraid to go bold or explore your serene side.
• What colors are trending right now? Danielle: Grays and cool hues are taking a backseat while browns, golds and warm earth tones are stealing the show. Calacatta Gold is a particular fan favorite.
• Describe the elements that make up the ideal kitchen. Joe: Expansive countertops for displaying food, oversize islands for mingling, beverage bars for serving drinks and a scullery or “secret pantry” to hide clutter. Whether you choose an open floor plan or one that is more contained, organization is still key.
• What about the ideal bath? D anielle : Because we begin and end each day in the bathroom, it’s important to enjoy the space. Beautiful countertops, backsplashes and shower walls can serve as a stunning focal point or the perfect complement to a beautiful, inspirational environment.
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR OVER 60 YEARS, WE LEAD THE INDUSTRY IN QUALITY CUSTOM FABRICATION.”
Top Designed by Kadlec Architecture + Design, this sophisticated powder room showcases a stunning marble vanity with a mitered apron front and a custom marble integral sink.
Photography Tony Soluri
Kadlec Architecture + Design
Tony Soluri Photography
The Material Matters
What are the ingredients for a great kitchen and bath? T&M’s Drozdzal and Piwowarczyk weigh in
• Au relia Drozdzal, Design Channel Representative: Marble is an easy way to enhance any space. Not only is it timeless and beautiful but it also offers incredible color and movement.
• Justyna Piwowarczyk, Sales Representative: Natural stones, such as quartzite and marble, evoke a luxurious feel in any space. Try incorporating products and designs that define your style all while preserving functionality.
Tips From T & M
• Incorporating materials such as qu artzite, dolomite, marble and quartz can create a bold statement and bring a touch of warmth to any space.
• A statement backsplash not only creates a focal point, but also brings depth and character to a home. Natural stone and porcelain slabs are a great option as they vary in color and texture, minimizing grout lines to create a sleek, seamless look.
847.353.8000 | tmsupply.com | tmsupply
• Mix and match natural materials and textures to create dimension. While you may have a variety of different materials, blending them brings a sense of cohesive harmony to spaces that might otherwise feel cluttered and chaotic. A team of seasoned experts who offer extensive knowledge, an eye for design and an understanding of the highest quality materials is key to creating exceptional kitchen and bath spaces. So it is with Terrazzo & Marble Supply Companies. For more than 75 years, this world-class, 100-percent employee-owned company has worked in close collaboration with interior design-build professionals to bring spaces to life with the use of their carefully curated selection of the most distinctive surface materials. Offering natural stone, quartz and porcelain, Terrazzo & Marble Supply tenders their expertise to designers and homeowners alike to ensure their decisions not only fit their desired aesthetic but suit their lifestyle needs.
Top Blending the Brazilian Soapstone kitchen island with a variety of materials and textures adds visual interest within this inviting, open space. Left This Calacatta Monet marble-encased wet bar is the perfect place for cocktails and friends to mix. Right Wrapped in Taj Mahal Premium quartzite, this kitchen exudes luminous luxury.
Photography Anthony Tahlier Photography
PARLOR TRICKS
Period details, moody hues and a bit of an edge come together in an Oak Park Victorian.
WRITTEN BY MICHELLE BRUNNER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN MCDONALD STYLING BY KIMBERLY SWEDELIUS
Architecture: William Scholtens, Elements
Architectural
Group Interior Design: Anna Knight, Anna Knight Interiors
Home Builder: Dane Stevenson, Arkwright Construction LLC
Having just finished a years-long renovation of her family’s Wicker Park bungalow, interior designer Anna Knight wasn’t looking to relocate anytime soon. Then the self-professed “old-house nerd” saw an enticing listing for an 1899 Victorian in Oak Park that piqued her curiosity. “I thought there had to be something wrong with it to be that price in that location,” Knight recalls. She swung by on her way to another appointment, and she was enchanted. “The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets reminded me of the East Coast, where I’m from,” she shares. “Once I walked in the front door and saw the curved stairwell, cut-glass windows and demilune fireplace, I just melted. That evening, I told my husband that it felt more like home than the house we lived in for seven years.” And just like that, the moving van was booked.
After five years of small updates, Knight was ready to give the abode a larger overhaul. Despite those dreamy original details that had caught her eye, past additions had compromised the main level’s layout, so she called on architect William Scholtens, a neighborhood acquaintance who shares her passion for reinvigorating vintage dwellings, and builder Dane Stevenson. “Once you got through those first front rooms, which are gorgeous and full of historic character, it became exceedingly more complex as you walked toward the back of the house,” Scholtens recalls. For one, the tiny original kitchen in the rear corner was completely cut off from the rest of the abode. At some point, a back porch was added with a new primary suite directly above it on the second floor. During that renovation, a powder room and second staircase with a space-gobbling switchback were dropped into the core of the residence, severing the front rooms from the back. Modern amenities had been addressed, “just in a choppy way that didn’t honor the feel of the house,” Knight notes.
To fix the flow, Scholtens’ revised floor plan relocated the second stairway to the rear of the dwelling, where a new back entry and mudroom were created. Moving and super-sizing the kitchen allowed for a walk-in pantry, an island, breakfast table and an adjacent family snug for
watching TV. And the home’s core now features a gracious passage with a built-in bar area. This improved connectivity between spaces allows the progression of rooms to unfurl with ease and style. With the architecture set, Knight dressed the floors in oak and checkerboard marble. Ceiling beams modeled on those in the Cheney Mansion, a historic home built by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright’s just up the street, were installed. “Adding those beams was a good way to bridge the things that felt original with the newer elements,” she notes. The kitchen’s plain-sawn white oak cabinets inset with antiqued mirrors and topped by Macchia Vecchia marble further reference the past while feeling thoroughly of this time.
Of course, their 10-year-old twins and menagerie of pets meant everything had to be durable. “With young kids, you know you’re going to have to do performance fabrics,” Knight says. Though that doesn’t mean style isn’t dialed up beyond the reach of small hands: The designer incorporated special, delicate lighting, like vintage midcentury Italian fixtures in the dining room and mudroom, that she combined with more contemporary off-the-shelf choices. “I love a mix in a space—it’s the equivalent of wearing torn jeans with a diamond bracelet and heels,” she muses.
For added atmosphere, Knight relied on carefully calibrated moody hues, such as the scullery’s earthy lichen green and the lilac-tinted greige that cloaks the dining room. There, artist Amanda Rieb painted a grayscale ceiling mural reminiscent of a Renaissance sky. A textural plaster finish, also applied by Rieb, gives many of the walls a dusky patina, while a large-scale lotus wallpaper brings a Gothic Victorian edge to the entry hall. “That paper takes all these period details and springboards off of them to create a look that feels very now,” Knight says.
In a way, the home’s evolution has moved in lockstep with that of its inhabitants. Since their initial move, Knight has transitioned from a career as a lawyer to one as a designer, and the kids grew from toddlers to preteens. What began with small house projects culminated in the final 18-month-long design and construction process. “So much change has occurred,” Knight reflects. “And now our story gets to become part of the history of this house.”
In the family room, a Verellen sectional from CAI Designs and a Four Hands coffee table provide a cozy spot for kicking back. A Crate & Barrel pendant and sconce by Gallery L7 illuminate the space. The photograph is by Kimberly Swedelius.
Cabinetry by David Hulthen Co., including doors inset with antiqued mirrors, and Macchia Vecchia marble from Marble & Granite Supply of Illinois make for a more formal kitchen. The Riloh light fixture is from CKS Collective.
Left: Concealed behind a mirrored door, the pantry’s English-style cabinetry by David Hulthen Co. features designer Anna Knight’s favorite color: Benjamin Moore’s Cleveland Green. Above are Arteriors pendants.
Opposite: In the breakfast nook, a banquette with Perennialsupholstered cushions and Robert Sentou for Charlotte Perriand chairs hug a vintage table. Artwork by Kimberly Swedelius hangs under a Lumfardo sconce.
“I LOVE A MIX IN A SPACE —IT’S THE EQUIVALENT OF WEARING TORN JEANS WITH A DIAMOND BRACELET AND HEELS .”
–ANNA KNIGHT
Awash in Farrow & Ball’s Elephant’s Breath, the dining room features a 1970s Murano-glass chandelier sourced on 1stdibs. Vintage Charles Hollis Jones chairs reupholstered by Urban Craft Custom Upholstery in a Romo fabric surround a table designed by Knight and fabricated by TDL Custom.
Above: In the primary bedroom, plasterwork by Amanda Rieb provides a textural backdrop for a bed fabricated by Urban Craft Custom Upholstery, artwork from South Loop Loft and a Visual Comfort & Co. lamp. Draperies in an S. Harris fabric and a rug from Lulu and Georgia add graphic accents.
Opposite: One of Knight’s first selections, Farrow & Ball’s Lotus wallpaper lines the entry hall. Abstract works by Conrad Marca-Relli, sourced from DinnerpARTy Antiques, and a vintage French chair from South Loop Loft layer on eclecticism.
Let There Be Light
A 19th-century town house overlooking Lincoln Park is renewed with a calming spirit.
WRITTEN BY MAILE PINGEL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES JOHN JETEL
STYLING BY DARWIN FITZ
Architecture: Mike Ryan, Chicago Roof Deck & Garden
Interior Design: Dan Rockenbach, Rockenbach Design Studio
Home Builder: David Pike, Pikelet Builders
To cultivate a restful atmosphere in the dining room, designer Dan Rockenbach chose Benjamin Moore’s Dove Wing for the walls and Baby Fawn for the trim. Illuminating a plaster painting by Qing Liu and an RH chair is a Hinkley picture light from Lightology.
Iknew it was my house from the start,” recalls the owner of this Queen Anne-style townhome facing Lincoln Park, just a stone’s throw from Green City Market. She and her husband, both Chicagoans returning from New York City, immediately saw its potential as an idyllic family retreat. One five-way bidding war and a very complex renovation later, the late-19th-century home, which was previously converted into a multiunit property, is once again a stately singlefamily residence. “We’d done flips before, but this was major,” she continues. “It’s even better than I could have imagined.”
Bringing the house back into harmony meant a renovation that stretched from the basement to the roof deck, so the couple brought on seasoned architect Mike Ryan, who understood navigating the approvals a historic property requires. “There were considerations with the façade, the old entry vestibule and carefully matching new windows to the original, but we really took it down to nothing inside,” Ryan explains. The architect also reworked the back of the house, connecting the garage and extending the family’s living space. “That addition brings a contemporary look, with tall windows and skylights that let in a ton of natural light,” he adds.
Working closely with builder David Pike, Ryan also redesigned the existing third-floor roof to support a deck and hot tub. “There were technical challenges and some pretty tense times— especially when it rained for two weeks with no roof,” Pike says. “But the family really wanted that open space up there. It’s a great place to watch fireworks with the kids!”
For the interiors, the couple turned to longtime friend and designer Dan Rockenbach. “This project was really about preserving the house while taking some chances on the inside without going too modern,” Rockenbach explains. “I didn’t want a home that made me think at the end of a long day,” the wife continues. “I wanted one that creates a sense of tranquility and comfort.” To foster an unfussy feel, Rockenbach put an emphasis on natural woods and local limestone to enhance the
neutral palette and celebrate how sunlight moves through the rooms. “Light lets a material speak for itself and allows imperfections to shine,” he says. “It’s a very wabi-sabi approach.”
Rockenbach also emphasized form and shape to cultivate rooms that feel both expansive and intimate. The living room’s sofa and chairs are softly sculptural, and its arched niches echo the shape of the passageways. In the adjoining dining area, an oak table and low-slung barrel chairs ground the space, while the nearby kitchen’s ceiling beams “inspire a rustic charm and contemporary elegance,” the designer muses. To enhance this warm and authentic atmosphere, he sourced hammered-metal pendants and caned chairs to provide “textural contrast and traditional craftsmanship,” he explains.
Proceeding upstairs (or downstairs to functional spaces like the mudroom and wine cellar), there are subtle shifts in materials that give each level its own feel. The second floor, occupied by the couple’s bedroom and the wife’s office, is even more monochromatic but with a bit more ornament. “It took a lot of work to design the bedroom paneling’s size and scale because of the different angles of the walls,” she reflects, “but we just wanted it to feel a little more traditional.” She also took an interest in sourcing meaningful accents, including her office light fixture—a leather chandelier handcrafted in Africa—and paintings found with the help of her artist sister.
Farther up the stair are the children’s bedrooms and playroom, the latter a space even grown-ups envy. “I spend a lot of time in there, so I didn’t want it to look so childlike,” the wife says, noting their clever eschewing of a kids’ table for a coffee table, albeit one with a playful energy. But it’s the scenic wallpaper that truly defines the room. “It reminds me of Peter Pan!” Rockenbach enthuses. “It’s such a cool space up there, like you could just wander and get lost.”
The finished home—soothing, sophisticated and comfortable—makes the complicated renovation worth all the effort. “A historical conversion can be beautiful, livable and incredibly functional,” the husband observes. “You don’t have to compromise.”
In the dining area, Rockenbach surrounded an Ethnicraft table with chairs by RH, where he also found the Timothy Oulton-designed light fixture. The wool drapery fabric is by Fabricut, and the rug is from Lulu and Georgia.
“Light lets a material speak for itself and allows imperfections to shine. It’s a very wabi-sabi approach.”
–DAN ROCKENBACH
Above: Accenting the white oak kitchen cabinetry by Design Concepts Inc. is quartzite from Marble & Granite Supply of Illinois fabricated by Terra Stone Design, who also crafted the home’s limestone fireplaces. The stools are by Villa & House.
Opposite: At the kitchen island, Rockenbach chose Regina Andrew pendants. For the breakfast area, he paired a Brayden Studio table with a caned RH chair.
Above are Arhaus light fixtures.
Benjamin Moore’s Dove Wing evokes a peaceful feeling in the primary bedroom. The Crate & Barrel canopy bed and nightstand are joined by an Arhaus pendant and a rug by Amber Lewis for Loloi Rugs.
Left: Rejuvenation hardware adorns the primary bathroom’s cabinetry by Design Concepts Inc.
Above the House of Rohl faucets are Jamie Young Co. mirrors and Hudson Valley Lighting sconces.
Opposite: Mirei Monticelli’s Nebula suspension lamp presides above the primary bathroom’s Clovis Goods tub and Woodbridge filler. The Roman shades are from Pro Design.
A custom wallcovering by Susan Harter Muralpapers and a whimsical Serena & Lily hanging chair create a magical ambience in the playroom. The coffee table is by Leanne Ford for Crate & Barrel.
Perfect Match
California cool meets London sophistication in this renovation for a growing young family.
WRITTEN BY MIKKI BRAMMER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN MCDONALD
STYLING BY KIMBERLY SWEDELIUS
Interior Design: Alissa Johnson, Alissa Johnson Interiors Home Builder: Michelle Kaufman, MKaufman Design & Construction
A tactile Romo grass-cloth wallcovering imbues the dining room with an organic ambience, while a Visual Comfort & Co. chandelier adds a bit of glimmer. The Community Manufacturing dining table is paired with Four Hands chairs.
It sounds like the beginning of a rom-com: A polished Londoner meets an American with laid-back California style, and the two must find a way to exist in harmony. While the couple’s love story has well and truly bloomed (they’ve since welcomed two children), their aesthetic tastes still don’t always align. So, when they decided to move to the suburbs to accommodate their growing family, the brief they gave designer Alissa Johnson for the renovation of their new Glencoe home was an interesting one: marry classic British sophistication with a relaxed, minimalist California vibe.
Fortunately, the Lannon-stone façade and gable roof of the house—built in 1929 by local architecture firm Anderson & Ticknor—already evoked a storybook cottage vibe. “It was the perfect opportunity to take inspiration from the stone exterior as far as English elements,” Johnson says. “It had really good bones, from the stair railing to the trim details to the doors.” The designer made the most of those bones, replicating or expanding certain moldings and trims throughout the house and adding built-ins that felt true to the home’s original style. To bring in the Californian aspects, the designer opted for neutral tones throughout while finding ways to keep things interesting within the restrained palette. “We did a lot of white oak floors,” she explains, “then added details and incorporated brasses and more textures, like vintage patterned wool rugs, to bring in some of that character.”
Though Johnson and builder Michelle Kaufman retained some original elements, they had to strip much of the dwelling—including the kitchen—down to the studs to make it suitable for contemporary living. “It was a complete transformation,” Johnson says of the culinary space, from which they removed a staircase, a window and an opening to the mudroom. “They’re a young family and utility is key, so I thought doing wall-to-wall cabinetry would be best. The goal was to keep it super functional.”
The designer and her team topped the cabinets with a reeded crown to incorporate an existing ceiling beam and added another faux beam for symmetry. To bring in a touch of lived-in warmth, they opted for darker stained-oak tones. “We see a lot of white oak kitchens, which I adore, but this made it feel homier,” Johnson explains.
There’s a similar coziness in the dining room, where an earthy greenish-gray grasscloth wallcovering and textured rug bring in that organic California aesthetic. “They love to entertain, and they have a big family, so we wanted this to feel very intimate coming from the white foyer,” Johnson says.
In the living room, the design team added an arched built-in with reeded cabinets to reflect the couple’s fun, youthful energy while still keeping things classic, then replaced the original fireplace with a larger limestone iteration to serve as the focal point. The room’s palette largely adheres to the same stone-like tones, except for two stately green armchairs at the center. “That’s the one color the husband would approve,” Johnson laughs. The designer also managed to convince him to embrace a warm limewash for the primary bedroom walls rather than the original white he envisioned. “It’s a bigger room, so we wanted it to hug them with this darker color,” Johnson explains. “Then we tied in the oversize white oak nightstands and some really cool sconces.”
For all her love of traditional English style, when it came to the dressing room, the wife leaned into her husband’s tastes. “This is where she wanted more of an airy look and feel,” the designer says. The team opted for a light wood veneer throughout to envelop the space in warmth.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project, Johnson says, is the fact that she was able to create a home that the family loves so much that they hardly miss their city life. “The wife said—in her British accent—‘I moved to the suburbs and now I never want to leave. I just want to stay here all the time,’ ” Johnson recounts. “That was the biggest compliment.”
Neutral hues thread throughout the abode, as seen in the living room’s Maiden Home sofa, Arteriors chandelier, Noir coffee table and rug by Loloi Rugs. Forest-green CB2 chairs offer a splash of color.
In the kitchen, a Wolf double oven is inset into stained-oak cabinets by JJ Millwork Design featuring Rejuvenation hardware. Above the island, topped with Pietrasanta Gold quartz from Terrazzo & Marble Supply Companies, hang Visual Comfort & Co. pendants.
Walls limewashed by Splendour Studios give the primary bedroom a sandy, beach-like palette. Noir nightstands and Visual Comfort & Co. sconces flank the Kathy Kuo Home bed. A Pinch chandelier adds another coastal element.
Above: Everything has its place within the dressing room’s sleek cabinetry by JJ Millwork Design, adorned with hardware from Build with Ferguson. A Visual Comfort & Co. chandelier illuminates the space.
Opposite: In the primary bathroom, a Visual Comfort & Co. light hangs above a Barclay Products Limited tub with Brizo fixtures. The honed Calacatta marble floor tiles are by The Fine Line, and the linen shades are semicustom from Pottery Barn.
CHICAGO’S HIGH END + LUXURY CUSTOM CABINETRY
MAIN OFFICE: 1840 N Major Ave, Chicago, IL 60639 . (773) 622-3114 . (773) 622-8993
SHOWCASE: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654 . First Floor . Suite 163-F
NAPLES SHOWROOM: 850 Central Ave, Suite 100, Naples, FL 34104 . (239) 315-0755
