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STARK delivers timeless luxury through innovative craftsmanship and expert service. For nearly a century, our master artisans and design consultants have transformed exceptional spaces with the world’s finest carpets and rugs, ensuring flawless execution every time.
MAY AND JUNE ARE THE MOST GLORIOUS weather months of the year, and the original intent of this issue was always to celebrate nature’s bounty.
From coast to coast, we lled our regional editions with dozens of stunning homes that champion communion with nature inside and out. Think: Perfectly placed expanses of windows framing majestic views and inviting outdoor living spaces enveloped by magni cently designed landscapes.
A busy spring spent traveling to trade shows, previews and events sent us home inspired by the latest product launches and collaborations—from beautiful and creative outdoor furnishings to exquisitely chic and moody oral fabrics spied at Paris Déco Off Our ower power issue was coming together, and it was gorgeous.
What a cruel irony that while these pages were being built, Mother Nature showed us her wrath, setting tornadoes, oods, hurricanes and wild res upon countless beloved communities, many of them home to LUXE’s staff and partners. Our relationship with nature is a complicated one, and increasingly so. We stand in awe of her might as much as her beauty, and as we pledge to rebuild from these disasters, we are reminded of the need to protect our natural resources, as well as our homes.
After a punishing winter, the warmth of the sun feels extra good and the bright blooms beyond the windows offer a particularly poignant expression of hope. As you head outdoors to make the most of the season’s eeting pleasures, let us give thanks to Mother Nature for her many gifts. May we never take them for granted.
XO,
Jill Cohen Editor in Chief
Follow me @jilleditsluxe
Looking for inspiration overload?
Check out luxesource.com,where you’ll nd homes from all our regions and hundreds of inspiring interiors images.
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 CHELIN 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, ogram residential architects, kitchen studios, and single-family builders, gain access to personalized guidance, esidential professional assistance, rewards and exclusive experiences. For those who know the extraordinary. ofessional
The difference is Gaggenau
Learn more about Club 1683 and how to qualify via the QR code. ow to
The little black book of all things new and fabulous in the local community.
Plucked from our issues across the country, f loral-inspired spaces are having a moment.
In a New York home by Taylor Mattos of Rinfret Ltd., botanicals prove to be the common thread.
Chuck Hilton discusses the alluring architecture and lush landscape of a legacy Connecticut property.
The latest crop of design titles are a visual delight from cover to cover.
Three iconic companies share the approach behind crafting their new textile and wallpaper collections.
Get to know Veronica Schnitzius, American Leather’s fearless leader with big plans on the horizon.
Bold interiors by creatives featured in our regional issues are the influence behind these fabulous product finds.
The season’s best and most innovative outdoor designs, just in time for spring.
A selection of recently blossomed textiles and wallpapers that caught our editors’ eyes in Paris.
From Utah to Michigan, step inside cheerful and bright kitchens, baths and more.
Interior designer Bambi A’Lynn Bratton envisions a modern ranch retreat brimming with natural materials in the Hill Country west of Austin.
In Dallas, architect Eddie Maestri brings a historical abode back to its original glory and beyond with a refresh that emanates style and grace.
Written by Maile Pingel
Photography by Stephen Karlisch
Styling by Benjamin Reynaert
European sensibilities and a serene palette guided the tonal, refined aesthetic of a Houston dwelling with interiors by Nina Magon.
The pressures of the day have no hold when there's an oasis to return to at night. The best ones start with inventive design brought to life by world-class furnishings and workmanship. A path that leads to a backyard surrounded by expanses of glass, made possible by doors and windows that never compromise. Learn more >
A
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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.
Clean lines, wide-open view corridors and tranquil color palettes tend to reign within more contemporary aesthetics. But even when a home is firmly rooted in all of this, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will be an exact twin to every other decidedly contemporary home. Just ask the team at Marvin. Through Marvin Modern, the brand helps realize many contemporary home concepts. The modular system seamlessly delivers authentic modern design for environments that demand performance and precision engineering. The two luminous homes featured here offer stunning proof.
Marvin helps architects realize their vision with custom windows and doors to help imagine and create better ways of living. Throughout the process, Marvin offers expert support, tools and resources.
Nestled near the shores of Lake Minnetonka in Minnesota, this gorgeous home brings together many juxtaposing elements to create a space that is artful, timeless and perfectly suited to the owners’ lifestyle. It was designed by architects Jim McNeal and Angela Liesmaki-DeCoux of James McNeal Architecture and Design and built by Rick Hendel and his team at Hendel Homes. The Marvin Modern Direct Glaze windows bring an immediate wow factor as one approaches the property, and McNeal enthused, “We love Marvin Modern windows, because they can be a statement without overwhelming the overall design.”
Tucked away in Sag Harbor, New York, and designed by The Up Studio, this stunning home features amazing attention to detail. The homeowners wanted an environment that balanced a desire for privacy with the goal of opening the home to an abundance of light, views of the water and outdoor connections. “We chose Marvin Modern windows and doors because of the clean, narrow sightlines and the ability to create huge expanses of glass,” says John Patrick Winberry, Partner at The Up Studio. “We have been using Marvin for years. The quality is there. It’s like when you shut the door on a luxury car— it just feels right.”
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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. 23, No. 3, May/June, 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 thereto. Opinions expressed in the magazine and/or its advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. Neither the Publisher nor its staff, associates or affiliates are responsible for any errors, omissions or information whatsoever that have been misrepresented to Publisher. The information on products and services as advertised in LUXE are shown by Publisher on an “as is” and “as available” basis. Publisher makes no representations or warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, as to the information, services, contents, trademarks, patents, materials or products included in this magazine. All pictures reproduced in LUXE have been accepted by Publisher on the condition that such pictures are reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the photographer and any homeowner concerned. As such, Publisher is not responsible for any infringement of the copyright or otherwise arising out of any publication in LUXE. Subscriptions: 1 year: $34.95 USA, $84.95 in all other countries. LUXE is a licensed trademark of SANDOW © 2025. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage and retrieval system, without the written permission of the Publisher. ADDRESS SUBSCRIPTION REQUESTS AND CORRESPONDENCE TO: LUXE, P.O. Box 808, Lincolnshire, IL 60069-0808. Email: luxe@omeda.com or call toll-free 800.723.6052 (continental U.S. only, all others 847.559.7358). @luxemagazine @Luxe Interiors + Design
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Design changes everything.
Every moment becomes more if you dare to design it. Presenting the Veil®
WRITTEN BY LARA HALLOCK | PRODUCED BY KRYSTAL RACANIELLO
OFFICINE GULLO
Resurrecting 19 th-century Tuscan traditions, Officine Gullo’s exquisite metal ranges serve as fine jewelry for the kitchen. Now, the company is bringing a taste of Florence to Dallas with its new 4,000-plus-square-foot showroom located in a former gallery on Oak Lawn Avenue. “We designed the space so that every item is treated like a piece of art—we wanted to preserve that artistic atmosphere,” says Matteo Gullo, the company’s managing director. A small lounge area greets guests, who are led through a corridor to three different kitchen settings before reaching a main room showcasing signature collections. The Dallas Kitchen, for instance, features a light brown palette with brass finishes inspired by the de mands of the local market. It’s also the first U.S. showroom to spotlight the brand’s exclusive petrol-blue Bar & Lounge collection with 24-karat-gold accents (above). officinegullo.com
Newly open to the public in Austin, The Shoppe by Blair Burton holds a trove of stylish treasures curated by interior designer Blair Burton. “We were looking to provide a specialty service where homeowners can see how to pull a room together so that it feels collected and layered,” she shares. Items range from vintage accents she has acquired at markets in Paris and Provence to custom textiles and upholstered pieces from her own fabric line. “The goal is to offer a wide range of aesthetics but geared toward someone who wants a curated look,” she adds. This opening is the latest news from The Burnet Lane Design Collective, a destination rife with industry pros galvanized by Burton and her husband, Michael. “It’s all an extension of what we do,” says the designer—her firm, Blair Burton Interiors, also calls the development home. Each company in the community fills a different niche, including Farmhouse Stone, Artisan Hardwood Floors, Sidetracked Studio architects and landscape architecture firm Raiz Design Group. blairburtoninteriors.com/the-shoppe
Transitional elements coalesce in homes by Brittney Ferguson, an interior designer based in Beaumont. Since starting her firm in 2019 after designing an acquaintance’s beach house, she has developed an airy aesthetic—layering bright motifs and modern elements with antique accents and natural materials. Here, she shares her top design destinations and trends. @brittneyfergusoninteriors
What are some of your favorite Houston shops? I love Lam Bespoke and MAI | Memorial Antiques & Interiors for fun accessories.
Where do you like to source art? Dimmitt Contemporary Art is my go-to for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
What materials are you excited about right now? Plaster! I love incorporating Segreto Finishes in any project we can. From plastered hoods to waterproof plaster walls, it adds great texture.
Any colors you’re into lately? I’m on a red kick. I’m waiting for the perfect home to incorporate a deep red, lacquered wet bar or study.
Melissa Gerstle is on a mission to bring the indoors out. Recently, the landscape designer opened Plein Air Atelier, a to-the-trade Dallas showroom dedicated to furniture, fabrics and accessories for the outdoors. “I’ve come to realize that my real purpose is to bring joy to families and create spaces that allow them to engage,” she says. “You need to be surrounded by a beautiful garden, but it’s also important to have wonderful seating areas that are comfortable and feel inspired.” However, she found the lack of variety in the outdoor decor market disappointing. Embarking on her own research, the designer soon found a passion for discovering fresh pieces and textiles. Then came the question: “How can I share this with others so that we can all improve outdoor design?” Working with interior designer Jean Liu—a dear friend whom Gerstle met years ago at a gardening club—she created her dream boutique in the Dallas Design District. The space showcases outdoor furniture and garden decor that feel sophisticated enough to take inside. Visitors can expect vignettes of curated selections from sought-after brands—think modern tables from Coco Wolf seated next to vintage urns, atop luxurious Limited Edition rugs. “We’re trying to tell a story of how you can mix and match different pieces, which is a familiar idea for interior designers but still a burgeoning concept when it comes to applying outside,” she adds. Keeping in step with the showroom’s emphasis on one-of-a-kind pieces, Plein Air Atelier also carries ceramic lines from independent artists such as Brooklyn-based Ellen Robinson. pleinairatelier.com
LUXE SPOTLIGHTS THE LOS ANGELES DESIGN COMMUNITY’S POST-WILDFIRE REVITALIZATION, FROM A RELIEF EFFORT WITH NATIONAL EXPANSION PLANS TO PROS FORGING A NEW PATH FORWARD.
WRITTEN BY KELLY PHILLIPS BADAL
“People underestimate that extra serotonin you get from living in a happy or clean space, even if it isn’t fully finished,” muses Adam Hunter. The L.A. designer’s belief underscores LA CAN DO (Los Angeles Creatives Aid in Natural Disasters Org)—a new nonprofit he founded to gather and distribute essential furnishings for families affected by the January wildfires. With 150,000 Angelenos displaced (including Hunter himself, above, standing in the remains of his Pacific Palisades residence) the need is undeniable. “We all need to sit and sleep on something,” he says. “This is about providing people with things that make them feel human.” The initiative—originally collaborating with fellow designer Tamara Kaye-Honey’s similar “Soft Landing” project—is galvanizing the design community, both in L.A. and across the U.S. An initial donation of a half million dollars of furniture from Vesta Home legitimized the endeavor, Hunter recalls. It grew from there and now he aims to broaden it. “This organization will become New York CAN DO, New Orleans CAN DO, responding wherever there’s a need,” he says. Its success has also pushed Hunter to evolve his company into a design-build firm, with a goal of revitalizing the Palisades with intention. “Instead of modeling individual homes, I hope to model it block by block, working with top architects and landscape designers—so it won’t look like a development,” he describes, wanting to preserve the community’s architectural variations and envisioning a resource-sharing system to speed the process and mitigate costs. To learn more about LA CAN DO’s efforts, visit lacando.org. @adamhunter
THREE L.A. DESIGNERS REFLECT ON PERSONAL LOSS.
“I could write a novel about my Altadena house; I poured so much love into her. But I’m allowing myself to get excited about rebuilding. What designers do is more important than ever: We have the ability to help our clients recreate ‘home’: a place of safety, a place to heal—and that’s really important to me.”
-ALEXANDRA AZAT, @PLASTERANDPATINA
“My Pacific Palisades neighbors and I have banded together, not just to rebuild our houses, but to imagine a future that is more resilient and connected. Now, my focus is on furnishing temporary housing—creating comfortable, functional spaces for others affected as t hey move forward too.”
-LISA PRICE CANALE; @LISAPRICEINTERIORS
“Losing my home in the Palisades redefined my sense of purpose. Designers and architects play a critical role in guiding homeowners and communities through a process that extends beyond reconstruction. It’s vital to consider: How can we rebuild with greater foresight?”
-CHINMAYA MISRA, @CHIN.CHIN_DESIGN
SNAPSHOT | DESIGN INSPIRATION | ASK THE EXPERT | BOOKSHELF
SPRING IS IN FULL BLOOM as evident in joyful rooms awash in florals, the verdant rolling acres of a legacy estate, and the latest design books BURSTING WITH FRESH IDEAS . DESIGN BY LOVE AND INTERIORS
LUXE’s bird’s-eye view of design across the country uncovers a bouquet of dreamy, botanical wallpaper-clad interiors.
PRODUCED BY GRACE BEULEY HUNT
“I chose the same pattern for both the walls and window treatments to camouflage the spatial flaws and asymmetry of the guest bedroom (above left). This airy, flowing floral by Soane was the perfect motif to blur the hard lines of the architecture.”
–Kerri Pilchik, kerripilchikdesign.com
“The fluid movement of the vanilla-colored de Gournay wallpaper balances this dining room’s architectural detailing (above right). As a floral counterpoint, the 24K gold-foiled bulbs on the Lindsey Adelman chandelier are reminiscent of buds ready to burst.”
–Amy Aidinis Hirsch, amyhirsch.com
“To continue the home’s ‘outside in’ theme in the dining room (right), we selected chinoiserie de Gournay panels depicting peonies and tulip trees customized in an antique rose finish. The metallic effect gives the space unexpected—and stunning!—dimension.”
–Peti Lau, petilau.com
“This guest room (left) gets great light, and the door is always open, so we wanted it to be a happy spot to glance at. The Lake August wallpaper works well because there’s breathing room in the light ground, and the repeat doesn’t feel monotonous thanks to its abstract and vine-y nature.”
–Max Humphrey, maxhumphrey.com
“The dining room (below left) looks through the kitchen and out to the yard, creating a seamless indoor- outdoor flow. The scale of the trees in the Cole & Son wallpaper perfectly suits the space, and our client loved the harmonious connection between the pattern and views outside.”
–Melanie Love, loveandinteriors.com
“The homeowner wanted to incorporate pineapples as a welcoming symbol of hospitality, which became the inspiration for the Arte wallpaper used in the dining room of this historic house (below right). The florals are bold and dramatic yet inherently classic, creating a sense of timeless elegance.”
–Eddie Maestri, maestristudio.com
A FLORAL-FORWARD THEME IMBUES A RYE, NEW YORK, HOME WITH PLUCKED-FROM-THE-GARDEN FRESHNESS.
WRITTEN BY GRACE BEULEY HUNT
“There was nothing in there except for an unfinished dog bath,” laughs Taylor Mattos of the half-constructed bonus room in her clients’ Rye, New York, residence. “It was a pass-through area that didn’t know what it wanted to be.” There was, however, an upside to the previous owners’ abandoned pet spa: plumbing was in place. Tucked at the rear of the residence, the room spills out to a collection of established gardens including herb, stepped, children’s discovery and more. The designer immediately imagined swapping the bath for a farmhouse sink, visions of dinner party flower arrangements and mixing cocktails for alfresco fêtes dancing in her head. And so, a cutting room-meets-wet bar was raised from the studs, wrapped in a wipeable vinyl grass-cloth wallpaper and fit with millwork painted a nuanced denim tone Mattos describes as “not too preppy with an air of casualness.” An array
of blue-and-white “country chic” floral textiles wink to the functionality of the space—and preview the home’s emphasis on botanical motifs.
Take the formal dining room, where a teal-and-champagne wallpaper bedecked with energetic poppies steals the show. “It felt traditional, but a fresher, more youthful interpretation for this young family,” notes Mattos, who spied the new skew at Gracie’s Los Angeles showroom and committed on the spot. The space’s chic mix includes an antique reproduction mirror with rosettes, a smoky, rock crystal chandelier and weathered-wood sconces for an informal material counterpoint. This finely considered sensibility is what defines the work of Rinfret, Ltd., the Greenwich, Connecticut- and Palm Beach, Florida-based firm she has led alongside her design-superstar mother, Cindy Rinfret, since 2020. “The phantom thread
of our work, so to speak, is the execution,” Mattos affirms. “We never want a room to hit you over the head—we want you to go inside and discover all the little details and layers.”
This particular collaboration between mother and daughter serves as a reminder that florals needn’t read fussy, frilly or feminine. With surprising palettes and strategic deployments, they can bring youthful verve, and, more importantly, drive home a sense of place through design. Sums Mattos, “The view through every window is trees, gardens and greenery. So much of this house was about capturing that feeling.” rinfretltd.com
EVERY GREAT ESTATE NEEDS A FOLLY OR TWO—JUST ASK ARCHITECT CHARLES HILTON.
WRITTEN
BY
JENNIFER PFAFF SMITH
Like a family growing with the next generation, legacy properties have a way of evolving alongside their stewards.
Outbuildings, like pool houses, pergolas or pavilions, can enhance an estate while complementing what exists. “They invite you to discover nooks and crannies you would never appreciate if you didn’t have a destination,” architect Charles Hilton observes. This is what he accomplished at Sleepy Cat Farm, the Greenwich, Connecticut, property he has nurtured over 20 years with a beguiling collection of accessory structures.
The key, notes Hilton, is to tie them to the principal residence using consistent materials or styles. “But there’s got to be a bit of whimsy and folly,” he adds. For instance, Hilton designed Sleepy Cat’s guesthouse as a French Normandy manor (above), countering the Georgian main house, but applied Connecticut fieldstone to reflect its surrounds.
No matter the look or purpose, these points of interest should be personal, the architect emphasizes—like Sleepy Cat’s observatory (right), where he etched a constellation map on the floor for the owner, who was in the satellite business. “You can have a lot of fun with them,” Hilton sums. “It’s a freedom of expression.” hiltonarchitects.com
From left to right by row: Embracing Beauty: Serene Spaces for Living by Beth Webb / rizzoliusa.com Marshall Watson: Defining Elegance by Marshall Watson / rizzoliusa.com
The World of Peter Dunham by Peter Dunham / vendomepress.com Golden Glass: Verre Églomisé by Miriam Ellner / pointedleafpress.com Aerin Lauder: Living with Flowers by Aerin Lauder / rizzoliusa.com David Kleinberg: Interiors by David Kleinberg, with Mayer Rus / phaidon.com The Romance of Home by Marcus Mohon, with Kyle Hoepner / rizzoliusa.com Alfredo Paredes at Home by Alfredo Paredes, with Brad Goldfarb / rizzoliusa.com The Crafted World of Wharton Esherick by Sarah Archer and Colin Fanning and Ann Glasscock and Holly Gore and Emily Zilber, photographs by Joshua McHugh / rizzoliusa.com This is Home by Jeffery Alan Marks / rizzoliusa.com Relaxed Luxury by Chad Dorsey / assouline.com The Waterfront House by Phoebe Howard / abramsbooks.com Relaxed Elegance by Brittany Bromley / rizzoliusa.com FRESH PERSPECTIVES ARRIVE WITH THIS SEASON’S LATEST TOMES. PRODUCED BY HANNAH LAVINE
Join the industry pros on Las Vegas Market’s Ahead of the Curve panel as they share a peek into their trending revelations: mixing elements prevails, modern is going soft, green is everywhere and home should be sanctuary.
When think of modern furniture, the mind goes to harsh,
When people think of modern furniture, the mind naturally goes to harsh, straight lines, so it is refreshing that I’m seeing soft lines and curves in this vernacular. I also notice that shades of green are becoming prominent. Timeless and classic, modern, earthy, organic— this color family can accomplish so much.
Christopher Todd Hall | Christopher Todd Living Las Vegas, Nevada + Nashville, Tennessee shopchristophertodd.com
July 27 - July 31, 2025. Register online at LVMKT.COM/LUXE. OPEN TO THE TRADE ONLY.
I am drawn to sculptural, organic silhouettes and unique materials that create an artisanal, handmade quality. I like to pair strong shapes while finding ways to keep it contemporary and elegant. The tension—a dance between strength and sensitivity— is what I look for when creating the spaces I design.
Peti Lau | Peti Lau Design Los Angeles, California | petilau.com
Today’s design philosophy blends well-being with natural aesthetics, creating fluid, boundaryless spaces that foster warmth, comfort and connection. Organic textures, handcrafted details and imperfect beauty bring depth and authenticity. Rooted in tranquility and mindfulness, this approach transforms homes into sanctuaries.
Anne-Marie Barton | AMB Design Inc. Salt Lake City, Utah | annemariebarton.com
Las Vegas Design Center | Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | 30+ designer showrooms presenting more than 120 product lines and offering year-round access to a global selection for any buyer.
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The One Hundred Collection celebrates Samuel Heath’s heritage, showcasing two centuries of design and manufacturing in the heart of England. It reinforces the brand as a pioneer of exceptional design and highlights the company’s superb craftsmanship. samuel-heath.com
Legno Bastone Wide Plank Flooring offers unparalleled elegance, crafted from premium European oak. Each plank showcases exquisite artistry, transforming spaces with opulent textures and rich hues. Its wide design enhances any room, adding warmth and character, elevating one’s interior decor. legnobastone.com
Subtle dimensions, bouclé details and soft tonal palettes create a harmonious balance of warmth and sophistication. Designed for refined tastes, Luxury Textures offers effortless versatility, enhancing any space with timeless allure. starkcarpet.com
Known for custom-designed sink bases, J. Tribble handcrafts cabinets that are a valuable asset for designers with a discerning eye and homeowners seeking something truly distinctive. jtribble.com
Modulnova’s design ethos seamlessly extends to outdoor spaces, bringing the same refined beauty and lifestyle-driven functionality found in its indoor collections. Integrated architectural elements blend with the landscape, creating a symphony of volumes and textures that enhance the surrounding environment. Price available upon request.
modulnova.com
La Spezia Bellezza by San Francisco sculptor Sora Kimberlain (@sorastonesculptor) was created from Portoro Italian marble and measures 28"H x 9.5"W x 6"D. Shipping and handling available within the United States. sorakimberlain.com
BEHIND THE BRAND | GROUNDBREAKERS | TREND | SPOTLIGHT | ROUNDUP
From FLOWER-FORWARD PATTERNS and a future-thinking leader to the latest and greatest outdoor introductions, we have our FINGER ON THE PULSE of what’s new.
THE ARTIST’S HAND AND THE ROMANCE OF FARAWAY PLACES ARE SHAPING THE LATEST COLLECTIONS FROM TODAY’S TOP TEXTILE HOUSES.
WRITTEN
BY
MAILE PINGEL
“Storytelling has always been important to Zoffany because it was established as an interior restoration brand,” says lead designer Peter Gomez, explaining that the company, founded in 1980, has deep roots in the refurbishment of English country houses like Temple Newsam, where Zoffany reproduced original wallpapers, ultimately sparking its first collection.
Indienne, the latest release from the storied brand, includes fabrics and wallpapers featuring patterns inspired by archival documents, as well as reworkings of popular designs. “The patterns are designed to be layered upon one another for an elegantly
comfortable look,” Gomez reveals. Pattern names hint at origin stories, like Sanganeri (right), a hand-blocked floral named afer the town in India where printing blocks have been hand-carved for centuries. Joining such historical motifs are contemporary expressions created by artists like Charlie Calder-Potts, who designed a mural for the collection. “Our studio incorporates a wide range of craftsmanship,” Gomez continues. “Modern techniques are treated with the same care as traditional methods, like in our Mughal Menagerie wallpaper, which uses digital technology and traditional printing techniques.” Adding, “experimenting with process early in the design sparks fresh creative directions and lets designs evolve in harmony with the chosen technique.” zoffany.sandersondesigngroup.com
PIERRE FREY
“I wanted to do something that hadn’t been done before,” says Patrick Frey of his new Deserts collection for Pierre Frey, the family business founded by his father in 1935. “Deserts, whether in Africa or Asia, are not all the same—they’re not just sand, there are animals and people, and the colors are different—so we used our imaginations to play with reality, not copy it,” he explains. Over the course of a year, Frey and his artisans gathered enough ideas to ensure a mix of wovens in various prints, colors and textures, “but it’s all a test until the final selection, when I cut half and only keep the best,” he says, noting that Deserts encompasses fabrics, wallpapers and rugs. A few of his favorites include Ammos, a palm tree-patterned wallpaper printed on straw (“If you want something quiet in a corridor, this is it,” he says), and L’arbre Du Voyageur (right). “It’s said that early travelers in the desert would cut the tree’s stalks and drink the water found inside,” he explains, adding that he liked the pattern so much that it’s also available as a fabric and wallpaper. “Storytelling helps explain our choices, but the idea was to build a collection that makes people dream.” pierrefrey.com
COWTAN & TOUT
When your archive comprises some 35,000 documents, inspiration can come from the smallest of details. Such was the case for Cowtan & Tout’s Design Director, Catherine Croner, when her team set out to craft the brand’s 2025 collection. (Cowtan & Tout was founded in America in 1924 and purchased by the Colefax Group in London during the 1980s.) “An old fragment may have a yarn with a unique texture that we want to recreate, or a historic wallpaper might have an exciting color combination,” she explains. To contemporize palettes, stylists paint croquis, or color studies, that are pinned to the studio’s walls for
discussion. “It’s an ongoing exercise of editing and re-envisioning, but ultimately this collection has a narrative influenced by the archetypal figure of the world traveler, collector and connoisseur,” Croner adds. Highlights of the new assortment include Aubury (above), a vining floral handprinted with 19th-century wood blocks, and a revisit to their 18th-century-inspired Botanique Spectaculaire (near left), now updated on a linen ground. Jahan (far left), an elephant design rooted in Mughal aesthetics is new too, and “lends theatricality to any room,” says Croner. “We’re always looking at old ways of making fabrics that have endured, but also new technologies, like weaving our new épinglé velvets on modern jacquard looms. It’s about finding the best methods to bring each design to life.” cowtan.com
INDUSTRY TRAILBLAZER AND PRESIDENT OF AMERICAN LEATHER, VERONICA SCHNITZIUS, TEASES THE COMPANY’S EXCITING NEW REVEAL.
WRITTEN BY LARA HALLOCK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE SOEFER
Veronica Schnitzius has a secret to tell. Behind the scenes, the American Leather president is orchestrating an exciting new concept that promises a sophisticated spin on its brilliantly engineered furniture. The premium brand within the American Leather house will wrap luxurious materials over softer, sophisticated silhouettes. “It’s a more editorial line,” she divulges.
The news adds another layer of success to Schnitzius’ two-decadelong career at the company, where she cut her teeth as an engineer before rising through the ranks. The Colombia native—who came to
the U.S. during a period of unrest in her home country—has remained committed to innovation and perfecting the craft of manufacturing. Indeed, the Dallas factory itself is a thing of beauty. Inside, soaring stacks of leather surround engineers and artisans who produce pieces made to last a lifetime. “We joke that we make our frames like tanks,” she says. And soon, she’ll bring that expertise in craftsmanship to the company’s elevated new brand. Read more about what’s in store at luxesource.com, including their even greater focus on the design community. americanleather.com
IN SEARCH OF THE LATEST AND GREATEST ALFRESCO FINDS? DIVE INTO LUXE’S GUIDE FOR THE SUNNY SEASON AHEAD.
PRODUCED BY KATHRYN GIVEN AND SARAH SHELTON
As the days grow longer and we unwind outside with friends and family well after sunset, an age-old question persists: how to stay warm outdoors. Enter Galanter & Jones, a design and fabrication studio run by Aaron and Miranda Jones, a brother and sister duo who have not only solved this longstanding problem but also introduced a chic and elevated addition to your alfresco affairs.
Nearly a decade ago, while working on a design-build project in San Francisco, a city notorious for its ckle weather,
Aaron began tinkering with a heated seating concept to make the backyard more useable. After an extended period of research and development, Galanter & Jones was born, introducing stylish heated furniture made of high-tech cast stone in a variety of colors and styles capable of withstanding year-round outdoor use.
“Once people sit down, they are instant converts,” Miranda explains, “think of it as an experience akin to laying on river rock warmed by the sun.” So, take a seat, sit back and relax. galanterandjones.com
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN TWO ICONIC BRANDS TEAM UP? A COLLECTION NOT TO BE MISSED.
Kravet, a leader in textiles and fabrics, has launched its rst collaboration with outdoor furnishings powerhouse Brown Jordan. The cohesive assortment includes a variety of dining chairs, chaise lounges, sectional sofas and tables, along with accessories including poufs, umbrellas and re tables. Upholstered frames are exclusively covered in signature Kravet fabrics, with custom options also available. Designed with versatility in mind, each piece features innovative materials such as aluminum framing, performance fabrics and strapping, and Dekton surfaces, making the collection ideal for all areas—from decks and porches to sunrooms and poolside patios. kravet.com, brownjordan.com
INSPIRED BY NATURE. DESIGNED FOR LIFE OUTDOORS.
The Urban Bonfire x Dekton collection redefines outdoor kitchens with a seamless blend of durability, performance, and sophisticated design. Featuring marinegrade aluminum cabinetry wrapped in Dekton cladding, precision-engineered stainless steel hardware, and a curated selection of functional accessories, this collection is built to withstand the elements while elevating modern outdoor living.
COUNTERTOP - DEKTON NACRE
CABINETRY - URBAN BONFIRE CLAY | DEKTON NACRE UKIYO
PHOTOGRAPHY - TIM HIRSCHMANN -
Poltrona Frau’s Secret Garden furniture collection looks as evocative as its name suggests. Designed in collaboration with Roberto Lazzeroni, the line draws inspiration from the alluring la dolce vita lifestyle and Mediterranean decorative traditions, such as ceramic-topped tables, to create a modern iteration using handnished glazed stoneware (see dining table below). Meanwhile, upholstery is available in seaworthy blues (shown), greens, terracotta and chalk, and backed with a hand-woven cotton webbing, all equipped to withstand many seasons spent in effortless relaxation. poltronafrau.com
The Secret Garden Armchair and Table.
There are grills and then there are Officine Gullo grills. The Italian company has taken its infamous metal ranges and kitchen expertise to the outdoor barbecue, and the result is as sleek and sporty as a luxury sports car. The OG Professional Grill is capable of 15 different cooking methods and features their signature corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Precision and performance aside, it’s the head-turning colorways that make this a covetable addition to your alfresco cooking area. officinegullo.com
TRUE TO FORM, CHEERY FLORAL FABRICS AND WALLCOVERINGS RING IN THE SEASON AHEAD.
Every January, the design world descends upon Paris, where brands debut new fabric and wallcovering collections. This year’s launches saw an abundance of flower-forward motifs, ranging from groovy and graphic to sweet and sophisticated. Here, LUXE editors’ share their favorite prints for spring.
1—Orangerie Fabric in Delft with Gert Voorjans / jimthompson.com
2—Forget Me Not Wallcovering in Orléans Blue / callidusguild.com
3—Persephone Fabric in Bluebell by Spring Street / pollackassociates.com 4—Palm Parade Fabric in Flax Flower / libertylondon.com 5—In Bloom Wallcovering in Parchment / perennialsfabrics.com 6—Blackthorn Weave Outdoor Fabric in Indigo / wmorrisandco.com 7—Lucky Charm Wallcovering / lalacurio.com 8—La Farge Tapestry Fabric in Puce by Vervain with Barry Dixon / fabricut.com 9—Momentos Pass Wallcovering in Fleeting Time with Wendy Morrison / paretewalls.com 10—Myrtle Wallcovering in Sky / weitznerlimited.com
FOR THE FEARLESS FEW
To mark this milestone, LUXE is presenting Visionaries—a special program showcasing the stories of designers and brands who are defining—and redefining—residential design.
In our November/December issue, LUXE will present these champions of groundbreaking design, innovation and craftsmanship in “The Story of Home.”
Coverage will extend beyond print, with “The Story of Home” launching across LUXE’s online platforms and social media channels beginning in May, amplifying the impact of these visionaries’ voices.
A special thanks to our current Visionaries partners: Eichholtz (Los Angeles), Kat Black Interiors (Dallas), Pittet Architecturals (Dallas), and The Luxury Bed Collection (Chicago + Dallas).
When one decides to embark on the process of designing and building their dream home, countless factors come into play. It can feel overwhelming, which means that having an e ective team can make a world of di erence in both the experience and the outcome. This is where Frankel Design Build comes in for its clients. The firm does everything from land acquisitions, architecture and construction to interior design, custom pools and home care. “We are a fully integrated, one-stop shop for home buyers,” says Co-President Sco Frankel. “We ensure seamless collaboration and a unified vision for every project, overseeing everything from structure to finishes to selection of furnishings and appliances.” Speaking of those interior details, FDB’s all-inclusive o ering has recently been taken a major step further
“BY OBSERVING HOW CLIENTS REACT TO DIFFERENT SELECTIONS IN A REAL-WORLD SETTING, WE GAIN VALUABLE INSIGHT INTO EMERGING PREFERENCES.”
SCOTT FRANKEL, CO-PRESIDENT
Welcome to a cu ing-edge space where every detail of home can be visualized and personalized. In Frankel Design Build’s state-of-the-art new showroom, another layer of the cohesive experience is born. Principal Kevin Frankel enthuses about the fresh space, saying, “It allows us to showcase the latest materials, finishes and design innovations in a way that encourages creativity and pushes us to think outside the box. Having a dedicated space to explore new ideas firsthand not only fuels our passion for design but also enhances the experience we provide to our clients. They get to see, touch and interact with every detail, making the selection process more immersive. More than just a showroom, it represents our commitment to o ering a level of care, expertise and seamless integration that can’t be found with any other builder.”
FEAST YOUR EYES on an orangerie-inspired folly, a charming laundry room and A ONE-OF-A-KIND HAND-PAINTED BATHTUB .
A UTAH SPORTS PAVILION’S VIBRANT KITCHEN, PANTRY AND BATH FLOURISH WITHIN A CHIC RETREAT INSPIRED BY THE DESIGN OF CLASSIC FRENCH ORANGERIES.
WRITTEN BY KELLY PHILLIPS BADAL
Given that her clients had commissioned a sports structure sited between the tennis and volleyball courts on their property, athletically attired interiors might have seemed like an easy win. But Salt Lake City-based Hillary Taylor’s design scheme blooms from the owners’ love of France— specifically, the orangerie at the Petit Trianon of Versailles, the famed private chateau of Marie Antoinette. Marrying the architecture of an orangerie with an activity-and entertaining-focused accessory building isn’t even that farfetched, says Taylor: Both are wellness-minded spaces devoted to leisurely pursuits. “Everything is about access to light,” she notes. A central glass ceiling presides over the pavilion’s multifaceted main gathering area, and is met by columns, cornices and details like a double Greek key frieze and ornamental treillage. The open kitchen, grounding one side of the main room, features a botanical wallcovering that emphasizes the structure’s greenhouse vibe, paired with glossy blue countertops that tie to the sky. A sportier counterpoint comes via the bathroom, rendered in crisp green and white. “The architectural detailing is a lot more formal than the way this retreat is lived in, but that’s appropriate for life,” comments the designer, who worked with architect Jon Jang, residential designer Bradford R. Houston and general contractor Mike Dahl to complete the sophisticated pavilion. “You should be able to use knockout spaces.” hillarytaylorinteriors.com
IN A HAPPY-GO-LUCKY LAUNDRY ROOM, HOUSEHOLD CHORES ARE ANYTHING BUT DULL.
WRITTEN BY SARAH SHELTON
With a wish list from a repeat client requesting a colorful summer vacation home, D.C.-based designer Cameron Ruppert set out to bring this new build, Victorian-style cottage in Michigan to life. Emboldened with carte blanche creativity, no part of the home was spared from a riot of color and pattern, including the second-floor laundry room. The space is designed around a cheery Caitlin McGauley botanical wallpaper (a fan of McGauley’s papers, Ruppert used another pattern in the client’s primary residence, too). With the walls settled on, Ruppert doused the cabinetry and trim in a custom shade of glossy eggplant, topped the countertops with a durable quartz, and complemented the windows and undercounter storage with a sweet Lisa Fine fabric. “My philosophy is to make everything feel perfectly imperfect by using patterns in different scales and layering textures, so the design is multifaceted,” explains Ruppert. cameronruppertinteriors.com
Wrapped in a Caitlin McGauley wallpaper, the laundry room is complete with an LG washer and dryer and a House of Rohl sink. The flower-like flush mount is by The Urban Electric Co.
SURE TO BE THE FOCAL POINT OF ANY EN SUITE, THESE HAND-PAINTED TUBS ELEVATE THE BATHING EXPERIENCE TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL.
Forget the traditional white bathtub! Instead, sink into a concrete tub from Buenos Aires-based company Konqrit, who takes a more artful—and transcendental—approach to bathing. Founder Cecilia García Galofre pivoted from a career in textile and fashion design to create elevated pieces for the bathroom (they also design sink basins) that bring beauty and sophistication to everyday routines. Only two years after its debut, the brand is making waves with a bespoke collaboration featuring artists and poets who transform the made-to-order tubs into a canvas with their brushstrokes and prose. The Bahía Chica model, shown here, is enveloped in a botanical painting titled De Raíz by Argentinian artist Catalina Ruiz. konqrit.com
From groundbreaking materials to reimagined floor plans, today’s homes reflect ever-evolving design, technology and lifestyle trends. Within the pages of this special section, discover the makers, creatives, artisans and design pros who are shaping the future of how homeowners live, work and gather in their most cherished environments.
713.300.9203 | benjamin-johnston.com | benjaminjohnstondesign
When one thinks about the definition of a dream home, the idea of designing to suit a particular lifestyle often comes to mind. But ideally, a home should be even more intimately connected to its inhabitants it should tell a story that reflects who they are. At least, this is the goal that inspires the team at Benjamin Johnston Design. Led by namesake Benjamin Johnston, alongside Paola Neri, Greg Roffino, Michael Viviano and Erich Ploog, the firm is known for its total home design philosophy, seamlessly blending architecture and interiors while keeping the client’s aspirations, personality and daily life top of mind. “Whether traditional or modern, internationally or regionally influenced, our designs emerge from authentic storytelling rather than prescribed aesthetics,” Johnston shares. “No two of our projects look alike because no two of our clients are alike.”
“Every project begins with an in-depth dialogue with our clients, exploring their goals, aspirations and the unique attributes of their site,” Johnston says. “From there, we study the functional relationships between spaces, shaping a layout that enhances both usability and experience. As we sculpt the architecture, we test and refine each space, ensuring that every design decision aligns with the vision we have crafted with our clients. Their feedback informs each phase, allowing for a truly personalized outcome.”
Johnston shares three requests they receive most often from homeowners:
• Integrated indoor-outdoor living for a natural, effortless flow
• Th oughtfully designed home offices that balance function and aesthetics
• Sp aces tailored for both adults and children to unwind
"We prioritize classic designs, quality materials, intelligent systems and enduring craftsmanship," Johnston says. "This ensures our homes stand the test of time and promote the health and well-being of their inhabitants."
BIGGER DOES NOT MEAN BETTER, AND WE STAND BY THAT PHILOSOPHY. WE PRIORITIZE QUALITY OVER SQUARE FOOTAGE.”
Photography Julie Soefer
713.785.6400 | berings.com | beringshardware
One way a company positions itself to stand the test of time is through a strategy of maintaining premium customer service. With consistent quality, businesses build strong loyalty, a positive reputation and long-standing success. Bering’s has become a Texas institution due in part to their unwavering focus on their clients. Augie Bering, Owner and third-generation Bering to run the enterprise, says, “We offer the best customer service anywhere. Beyond that, we provide a unique shopping experience through a distinctive curation of high-quality goods. We strive to maintain a positive, family-friendly retail environment with knowledgeable staff.” He excitedly shares that their hardware stores have seen new improvements due to customer and employee feedback, noting, “We have added Milwaukee tools and Benjamin Moore paint, and recently revamped and improved our plumbing and electrical departments.”
Crossover happens when a trend evolves into a must-have. Bering believes that day has come for brass hardware. He enthuses, “Kitchen and bath knobs and pulls in both polished and burnished brass have replaced dark bronze and chrome in today’s most daring designs.”
Outdoor kitchens are at the top of every must list right now, and the Bering’s team is there to help. Bering shares, “We work closely with homeowners and contractors to fulfill their desires for the highest quality grills, smokers and pizza ovens.”
“Our signature product is customer care,” says Bering. “Whether they are DIY clients updating their own homes or designers creating a new look with decorative hardware like Emtek or the latest Benjamin Moore paint colors, the Bering’s team is ready, willing and able. We also serve the needs of subcontractors and are proud partners with industry leaders like Goodsmith. At Bering’s, we’re always evolving, so that our selections align perfectly with current trends in the market.”
AS WE CELEBRATE 85 YEARS SERVING HOUSTON’S NEEDS, THE TEAM GOAL IS TO KEEP OUR DEPARTMENT STORE GOING FAR INTO THE FUTURE.”
Top From Karran, the Scottsdale commercial-style faucet adds rich detail to the kitchen in eye-catching brushed gold. Bottom The green cabinets, in shade Rosepine 461, are a featured hue in Benjamin Moore’s 2025 Color Trends report in what they have named “the year of comfort.”
Photography Top Courtesy of Karran; Bottom Courtesy of Benjamin Moore
OUR HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION ENSURES ALL ELEMENTS ARE INCORPORATED SEAMLESSLY.”
In the mission to purchase land and build one’s own custom, dream home, many daunting steps line up for attention. Luckily for such aspirational individuals in the Houston area, there is Frankel Design Build. “We provide a seamless, one-stop design-build experience that exceeds client expectations,” says Co-President Scott Frankel. “By offering award-winning architecture, construction, interior design, home care, land acquisition and custom pools—all in-house—we ensure every detail is handled with precision and care.” At the heart of it all is the client’s dream vision, and the Frankel team is expert at translating, too. Principal Kevin Frankel weighs in on what homeowners want today, saying, “They no longer see outdoor areas as separate from the home, but as true extensions of their living spaces with the same level of detail, comfort and functionality.”
Kevin shares three of the top requests he and the team at FDB receive from clients.
• Outdoor living remains an absolute must. Homeowners seek covered patios, summer kitchens and resort-style pools that serve as focal points for entertaining and relaxing.
• Op en-concept floor plans are key for many clients who desire flow between kitchen, dining and living spaces, as well as to the outdoors.
• Expansive entertaining areas top many lists. Homeowners want space for intimate gatherings and large celebrations alike. Features like oversize kitchen islands, full bars and integrated indoor-outdoor audio systems are popular.
“Frankel Design Build’s signature offering is its fully integrated design-build process, which is now enhanced by our new interiors showroom,” Scott shares. “This state-of-the-art space allows clients to make their decorative selections—fixtures, finishes and materials—under one roof. By centralizing the selection process, we simplify decision-making and ensure every detail aligns seamlessly with the overall design vision.”
Top With a spacious summer kitchen and outdoor living area complemented by a stunning pool from AVEA Pools, Frankel Design Build crafted the perfect outdoor retreat. Right This inviting, open-concept living and breakfast area boasts expansive windows that frame the scenic back yard. Far right Featuring a textured wall covering, warm tones and abundant natural light, this primary bedroom is a chic, cozy retreat.
Photography Kerry Kirk
Using elements of the land, an empty nester builds her next chapter in the Hill Country outside of Austin.
BY
After raising two boys in Austin and finding herself an empty nester, native Texan Tracy King was craving a slower pace of life. One day, she received a call about a piece of property in the Hill Country. “My dear friend called me up and said, ‘You mentioned wanting to move to the countryside, you should come look at this,’ ” she recalls. Some 80 acres make up the parcel on the western edge of Blanco County, where her parents had also moved to in the 1990s. “I fell in love with the land the first time I set foot on it,” remembers Tracy, who surprised herself by buying the estate and selling her home soon after.
Located about an hour’s drive outside Austin, the site was formerly a working cattle ranch. When Tracy arrived, however, the only sign of life was an abandoned garage situated in a grove of oak trees. She brought architect James Gonin out to look at the land, and he was instantly enamored with the lot. “The beautiful old oak trees were incredible,” the architect describes. “T he property has rolling hills, prairie grasses, limestone outcrops—all the things people love about the Hill Country.”
To complete the team, Tracy called up Bambi A’Lynn Bratton, a designer whose husband had built her previous house in Austin. “She always said that when it came time for her dream home, she wanted me to do the interiors,” shares Bratton, who was excited to blend her client’s traditional style with more modern elements for this new residence.
From the start, Tracy’s design brief was straightforward and materials-focused: “I wanted glass, metal and concrete,” she says, “and I wanted to be able to see right through the house.” Soon, however, Gonin suggested adding a new medium: rammed earth. “I thought it would be great for this project because it has that same raw beauty as the site itself,” explains the architect, who worked with builder Clay Bass to construct the home. Because it was his first time incorporating
rammed earth, Gonin also engaged local experts De la Tierra to help weave it into the design.
Standing as monolithic structures in nearly every room, the earthen walls command attention with their horizontal, stacked layers of reddishbrown clay and their sandy texture. “I wanted the house to look like it grew up out of the ground,” muses Tracy, who was enamored with the look and feel of the organic, striated material.
Each wall was formed with local soil from nearby Blanco River, along with clay from the lot. Adding a small amount of concrete helped stabilize the mixture and make it weatherproof. A metaland-wood volume was built for the construction of each rammed earth wall, which was then torn down and reused for the next. “The darker lines are traces of clay from the property,” Tracy points out. “Every wall feels like a piece of art.”
To complement this organic quality, Bratton incorporated neutral colors and natural elements like wood and leather. White oak floors balance Douglas fir ceiling beams, and many of the rooms have patterned wallcoverings to add another layer of texture. “We wanted a comfortable yet artistic feel,” Bratton shares. Combining some vintage pieces from the owner’s previous home with new light fixtures and finishes brought a sense of balance. “It’s traditional but with a bit of midcentury modern flair,” the designer observes.
Acting as a hinge between the two wings of the residence—one of which contains the main living areas and primary suite and the other holding the guest rooms—is a circular, silo-inspired bar with galvanized metal siding. “When I told James I wanted a silo in my house, he looked at me like I was from Mars,” the homeowner says with a laugh. “Now, everybody loves it.”
These days, whether she’s hosting friends and family for parties, or holing up in her office for some quiet reflection and reading, Tracy appreciates how her home connects her to the natural world. “The ultimate goal in moving out here was to slow down, breathe deeper and ground myself again,” she reflects. “It’s a place where I can just be serene.”
ONE GLAMOUR-FILLED RESTORATION RETURNS A HUNDRED YEARS’ WORTH OF STYLE TO A HISTORIC DALLAS HOME.
WRITTEN BY MAILE PINGEL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN KARLISCH STYLING BY BENJAMIN REYNAERT
When a 1920s residence in Dallas’ Swiss Avenue Historic District came on the market, one family knew it was time to move.
Among the city’s oldest designated historical areas, the neighborhood appealed to these longtime Dallasites, especially the wife, who has fond memories of spending Mother’s Day weekends touring the homes with her mom and sister. This particular house had been stripped of many of its original features in prior renovations, but that didn’t deter the couple. “We liked that it was a blank slate inside,” the wife says.
The clients were already in touch with architect Eddie Maestri, whom they had engaged to rethink their existing residence before realizing they needed to look at other properties. “We did some drawings, but it was clear their previous home did not have the space to achieve their goals,” Maestri recalls. The historical abode also enticed the architect, who grew up in New Orleans and shares a love of old houses. “It was nice to walk through the rooms and reenvision decorative details like ceiling molding and wall paneling,” he remembers. “I could see the potential.”
High on the list of priorities was reconfiguring the kitchen to flow better for entertaining. Working within the existing footprint, he designed a statement wall around the range, added a breakfast nook and composed a pantry drenched in sage green that connects to the dining room. “The homeowners trusted us to do fun stuff, like different cabinetry styles and reeded-glass transoms, to create all these little moments,” describes Maestri, who collaborated with interior designer Katie Paulsen on the project. Radiating from a branching chandelier above the island, romantic ceiling medallions harken to the past while incorporating crisp lines that give a fresh feel.
“I like to take a multidisciplinary approach— architecture, interiors, landscape—to bring the whole vision alive,” the architect explains. Working alongside builder Adam Larson to breathe new life into the home, Maestri had an especially inspired view when it came to tackling the period details. “There’s a lot of guesswork when you’re adding back history,” he reflects. “You can assume how things might have looked,
but you have to appreciate that a house built in the 1920s also went through the ’50s, ’60s and so on, and we want to add those elements in as well.”
Acknowledging the decades of change allows for a certain freedom in restoring lost stylistic details. They needn’t be uniform; they can reflect a more natural evolution.
In the entryway, Maestri designed a herringbone marble floor and applied picture molding to the walls. He also enlarged the archway into the dining room and added a brass threshold, a feature repeated throughout the main rooms, for “an unexpected ‘wow’ moment,” he says. Adorned in crown molding, the dining room is formal but energized by a floral wallpaper chosen by the wife. “People today don’t ‘dine’ in their homes like they used to, but we’re lucky to have friends and family locally whom we enjoy hosting—and the large table stimulates lively conversations,” she observes. To the architect’s point of layering in different styles, the chandelier adds a bit of midcentury flair.
A new display of artworks, curated with Jennifer Klos, founder of Collector House, further contemporizes the rooms. “The homeowners really wanted statement pieces,” notes the architect, pointing to the family room’s painting by Billy Hassell—which hangs above a fireplace from Maestri’s mantel collection—and the living room’s large abstraction by artist James Brooks. “We also didn’t want furniture just pushed against the walls,” he says of the formal entertaining space. To create a hotel lobby feel, the architect devised two seating areas by centering the room with back-to-back sofas.
The second floor includes the new primary suite, the husband’s office and their sons’ bedrooms. At the request of one of the boys, two twin beds were placed alongside arched windows in one of the rooms and clad in rusty sunset hues. The children’s bathroom, too, is equal parts refined and playful, with a jungle-inspired wallpaper print and fluted wood cabinets.
“We’ve long admired Eddie and the homes he’s carefully renovated,” the wife shares. “The beautiful mix of old houses updated for modern living is the reason we wanted to work with him.” By thoughtfully recreating the abode’s might-have-beens, Maestri has made it fit for the future and given a little something back to the neighborhood in the process.
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LIGHT MEETS TEXTURE IN A MONOCHROMATIC HOUSTON HOUSE THAT FEELS ANYTHING BUT ONE-DIMENSIONAL.
WRITTEN BY LARA HALLOCK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PÄR BENGTSSON
Aspace should look beautiful even if there’s not one piece of furniture in it,” interior designer Nina Magon reflects. When approached by a homeowner to work on her and her husband’s monochromatic abode in Houston, Magon’s savvy in playing with light, texture and scale had the chance to shine, resulting in a dwelling that’s all at once sophisticated, modern and warm. The two women had met at social events and through mutual friends over the years, but their collaboration sparked when the client visited the Nina Magon Lounge in Zadok Jewelers, where she got an immersive sense of the designer’s luxury global aesthetic. “The room is bold and striking, and that’s what I like,” the wife notes.
When Magon came to the house for a visit, she was greeted by a double-height entry with a majestic, curved stairway envisioned by the client. “I was amazed when I saw the grand staircases at the Four Seasons in Shanghai,” the owner reminisces. “Their dramatic shape was my ultimate goal.” Clad in a Venetian plaster, the staircase was also inspired by Old Jaffa, a neighborhood in Tel Aviv, where she was raised. The international influence resonated with Magon, who was born in Canada, has Indian roots and has collaborated with famed global brands such as Balmain and Cosentino. “As soon as we walked in the home, we both agreed on emphasizing that neutral, European-style palette,” Magon recalls.
A chandelier immediately came to the interior designer’s mind in order to balance the expansive entryway, but the client was already having one commissioned. As it turns out, they were both thinking of the same glassmaker based in Prague. “We have very similar tastes,” Magon says with a laugh. “We even drive the same car.” In the process of completing the fixture, the duo took two trips to the Czech Republic together. The voluminous pendant that now adorns the foyer features varying sizes of opaque white and transparent spheres, which appear to hover in midair. “All of the different aspects add a little bit of interest, so it doesn’t look boring,” the designer describes.
That sentiment carries throughout the home, which is a feast for the eyes despite a minimal color palette. The soft lines of the formal living room’s velvet-covered sofa, for instance, offset the weight of rectangular marble coffee tables of differing heights.
The homeowner brought a similar sensibility to the art collection, wanting the house to have an avant-garde feel. To help curate pieces, Magon enlisted Mimi Sperber, founding partner of Off The Wall Gallery. A Craig Alan piece in the formal living room portrays a white dress set upon an inky canvas, a bold but feminine backdrop for the seating area where the owner often welcomes friends for tea. In the dining room, Squeak Carnwath’s abstract Book of Days anchors a space otherwise defined by ethereal ivories and buoyant curves, as in the rounded chairs, arched doorway and swooping chandelier sourced by Magon. “I like to find extremely unique lighting that is both purposeful and a jewelry piece in the room,” she muses. “The lighting acts as art.”
Also treated as a showpiece is the natural light that flows into the abode. “Having grown up at the beach on the Mediterranean, I need sunlight from morning to sunset,” the client shares. It dapples through sheer drapes onto her channeled bed and the entryway’s creamy pumpkin chairs, its shadows creating an extra layer of depth. In the kitchen, the sheen off the stone tile flooring sets an immaculate tone, reflecting the wife’s desire to keep it pristine. “I love to cook, but I want the kitchen to look like a model in a showroom,” she notes. Durable materials ensure an easy clean, such as the contract-grade fabric covering a custom banquette in the breakfast nook. “We made the bench to soften the wall’s linearity, introducing organic curvatures that complement the home’s furniture,” the designer explains.
The client wanted the primary suite to be a continuation of the rest of the house, but with an extra hint of glam. “Everything has curves in this space. There’s nothing that’s really a straight line,” Magon observes. A natural feel permeates the furnishings, from the plush velvet sofa to a free-form coffee table and an undulating custom rug designed by Magon. “At the end of the day, that’s where you want to end up, in a soft and quiet atmosphere,” the homeowner muses.
In the breakfast nook, Magon created a swooping banquette to complement the abode’s curvaceous furnishings. Ilan Adar artwork, Arhaus chairs and CB2 table complete the vignette.
RUG M ART
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