


INSPIRED DESIGN
INSPIRED CRAFTSMANSHIP




INSPIRED DESIGN
INSPIRED CRAFTSMANSHIP
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.
Since 1938 ince
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.
Perched above Austin’s iconic Mt. Bonnell Park, this fully renovated modern home showcases breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Austin. 3423MonteVista.com
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.
150
In Laguna Niguel, architect John Henderson and designer Laura Brophy bring breezy sophistication to a renovated ’90s-built Spanish-style abode.
Designer Peti Lau pulls together punchy color, wallcoverings and a dash of Hollywood Regency glam to invigorate a midcentury modern Pasadena gem.
Written by Abigail Stone
Photography by Roger Davies/OTTO
Styling by Lisa Rowe 176
Inspired by the concept of quiet luxury, architect-designer duo Michael Maciocia and Heather Docherty conceive a modern ranch-style Montecito getaway.
Written by Kelly Phillips Badal
Photography by Sam Frost Styling by Lisa Rowe
ON THE COVER: De Gournay’s immersive Badminton wallcovering wraps a Pasadena dining room, ushering in a romantic atmosphere. Interior designer Peti Lau pulled together an Ashley Childers for Global Views rug, pink-marble Crate & Barrel dining table, CB2 velvet chairs and a vintage credenza topped with glitzy candlesticks to heighten the alluring effect. Page 164
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
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Pam Shavalier
SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR
Colleen McTiernan
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Brittany Chevalier McIntyre
MANAGING EDITORS
JILL COHEN
EDITOR IN CHIEF
MANAGING EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kelly Velocci Jolliffe
Krystal Racaniello, Clémence Sfadj
HOMES EDITORS
ARIZONA, GREATER CHICAGO
Brittany Chevalier McIntyre
SOUTHEAST
Kate Abney
COLORADO + THE ROCKIES, LOS ANGELES, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Kelly Phillips Badal
PACIFIC NORTHWEST, SAN FRANCISCO
Mary Jo Bowling
AUSTIN + SAN ANTONIO, DALLAS + FORT WORTH, HOUSTON
Lara Hallock
GREATER NEW YORK, HAMPTONS + CONNECTICUT
Grace Beuley Hunt
MIAMI, PALM BEACH + BROWARD, NAPLES + SARASOTA
Jennifer Pfaff Smith
ART
ART DIRECTORS
Candace Cohen, Maria Pluta
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Jamie Beauparlant
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Kyle Anderson, John Griffin-Santucci
SENIOR RETOUCHER
Christian Ablan
CONTRIBUTING PHOTO EDITORS
Catherine Armanasco, Kristen Roeder
DIGITAL
SENIOR SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Claire Evans
WEB EDITOR
Brooke Robinson
STYLE DIRECTOR Kathryn Given
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Hannah Lavine
DIRECTOR, DIGITAL Ileana Llorens
SENIOR MARKET EDITOR
Sarah Shelton
ADAM I. SANDOW CHAIRMAN
FOUNDING EDITOR IN CHIEF EMERITUS
LUXE INTERIORS + DESIGN
Pamela Lerner Jaccarino
CONTROLLER
Emily Kaitz
CHIEF OF STAFF
Stephanie Brady
DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Monica Del Borrello
DIRECTOR, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Joshua Grunstra
VICE PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES
Lisa Silver Faber
ERICA HOLBORN
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CHIEF MARKETING & REVENUE OFFICER
Bobby Bonett
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Michael Shavalier
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, INDUSTRY RELATIONS
Kate Kelly Smith
VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE
Jake Galvin
VICE PRESIDENT, DIGITAL
Caroline Davis
VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Laura Steele
SENIOR VIDEO DIRECTOR
Steven Wilsey
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.”
TANYA SUBER
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS OPERATIONS
VICE PRESIDENT, NATIONAL PUBLISHER
Michelle Blair
NATIONAL SALES DIRECTORS
HOME FURNISHINGS DIRECTOR Sarah Smith
WEST COAST DIRECTOR Lisa Lovely
MIDWEST + SOUTH CENTRAL DIRECTOR Tanya Scribner
SENIOR DIRECTOR, MARKETING OPS Rachel Senatore
DIRECTOR, CREATIVE SERVICES Carly Colonnese
DIRECTOR, CLIENT STRATEGY Kasey Campbell Thompson
CLIENT STRATEGIST Verity Lister
SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER Mery Nikolova
INTEGRATED GRAPHIC DESIGNER Antoinette Childs
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EVENTS + AWARDS MARKETING James Nolan
MANAGER, EVENTS + AWARDS MARKETING Dana Jensen
MANAGER, EVENTS Janice Hyatt
DIRECTOR, SPECIAL PROJECTS Jennifer Kimmerling
PARTNER SUCCESS MANAGER + TEAM LEAD Brittany Watson
SENIOR PARTNER SUCCESS MANAGERS Lauren Krause, Susan Mallek
PARTNER SUCCESS MANAGERS Brittany Blackwood, Chelsea Petrey
NATIVE CONTENT EDITOR + TEAM LEAD Greta Wolf
NATIVE CONTENT EDITORS Heather Schreckengast, Matthew Stewart
LUXE PREFERRED, PROGRAM SUCCESS MANAGER + ANALYTICS SPECIALIST Victoria Albrecht
LUXE PREFERRED, PROGRAM SUCCESS MANAGER Stephanie Fritz
SENIOR MANAGER, DIGITAL ADVERTISING Molly Polo ADVERTISING OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Rosemary Leo
VICE PRESIDENT, REGIONAL Kathleen Mitchell
ARIZONA PUBLISHER Adrienne B. Honig
AUSTIN + SAN ANTONIO PUBLISHER Jim Wilson
GREATER CHICAGO PUBLISHER Kathleen Mitchell
MANAGING DIRECTOR Carolyn Funk
DIRECTORS Christine Bowman, Tracy Colitte, Ashley West
COLORADO + THE ROCKIES PUBLISHER Katie Martin
DIRECTOR Travis Gainsley
DALLAS + FORT WORTH PUBLISHER Rolanda Polley
GREATER NEW YORK PUBLISHER Trish Kirsch
DIRECTORS, NEW YORK Kara Pfeiffer, Maritza Smith
HOUSTON PUBLISHER Amy McAnally
LOS ANGELES WEST COAST PUBLISHER Lisa Lovely
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Virginia Williams
MIAMI, PALM BEACH + BROWARD, NAPLES + SARASOTA
DIRECTORS Jennifer Chanay, Susan Goldstein, Karina Gonzalez
PACIFIC NORTHWEST WEST COAST PUBLISHER Lisa Lovely
DIRECTORS Cathy Cruse, Jay Jensky
SAN FRANCISCO + NORTHERN CALIFORNIA WEST COAST PUBLISHER Lisa Lovely
DIRECTOR Sara McGovern
SOUTHEAST MARKET DIRECTOR Jim Wilson
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WEST COAST PUBLISHER Lisa Lovely
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kali Smith
SALES OPERATIONS DIRECTOR John Baum
REGIONAL SALES OPERATIONS MANAGER Addie Szews
SALES ASSISTANT, NATIONAL & GREATER NEW YORK Sylvia Coulson
SALES ASSISTANT, CALIFORNIA Gabriella Picano
CIRCULATION + DISTRIBUTION
SENIOR DIRECTOR, STRATEGIC OPERATIONS Keith Clements
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
SUBSCRIPTIONS 800.723.6052 ADVERTISING 917.934.2800 sandow.com luxesource.com CORPORATE HQ 3651 FAU BOULEVARD, SUITE 200, BOCA RATON, FL 33431 | 561.961.7600
This magazine is recyclable. Please recycle when you’re done with it. We’re all in this together.
Design changes everything.
Every moment becomes more if you dare to design it. Presenting the Veil®
WRITTEN BY MAILE PINGEL | PRODUCED BY CLÉMENCE SFADJ
ADVENTUROUS CREATIVES BRING THEIR UNIQUE AESTHETICS TO LOS ANGELES WITH SHOPS AND PRODUCTS THAT MELD EUROPEAN CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH WEST COAST STYLE.
Old meets new at Studio Balestra, the Hollywood boutique and creative studio where design lives through the lens of Rome-born Adriano Balestra. After graduating from UCLA, the designer worked for Clint Nicholas Design and Michael S. Smith, but, around five years ago, he began sourcing antiques for clients. This move prompted the creation of his showroom and then a presence on 1stdibs. “We’re focused on simplicity,” says Balestra, who specializes in Pierre Jeanneret as well as rustic items like ceramic lamps made in California and case pieces from his native Italy. The designer also has an appreciation for Japanese design. “We have been developing new tables covered in Japanese paper—an artist was just here working on a few creations for us,” he shares. Balestra is designing his own pieces too, including the Vela settee (right) and Molten Moon bed made of steel and mohair— a fabric which is itself part of a forthcoming line of textiles he is manufacturing in Europe. studio-balestra.com
Helmed by designer Sarah Solis, Galerie Solis is an online shop for antiques—everything from French harvesting baskets and rugs to furniture from Wales and Spain—and luxury textiles like Belgian linens and Italian velvets. At the core of its ever-evolving selection is Solis’ very own inaugural furniture line, the Heritage Collection. Comprised of 11 pieces (sofas, wood and upholstered chairs, ottomans and tables), it is a natural extension of the designer’s residential work. “I’ve always been drawn to incredibly functional furnishings that exude elegance and evoke emotion, but that are also calling to be truly lived with,” says the designer, who resides in Malibu with her young family. “The Heritage Collection is made to be experienced for generations,” she adds of the line, which is also available at The Future Perfect. And, not one to stand still, she is already at work on a forthcoming lighting collection. galeriesolis.com
MANDY CHENG X MITZI
Interior designer Mandy Cheng has launched a versatile, natureinspired lighting collection with Mitzi, the New York company known for its collaborative Tastemakers series. Called Moments in Light, the line includes 18 pieces (chandeliers, pendants, lamps and sconces) named for loved ones who have shaped the designer’s vision. Reyn (right), which features jute, brass and wood, is a nod to her husband, architect James Rory Reynolds, and the garden he designed at their Silverlake home. Niya, a set of tasseled luminaires, honors the designer’s L.A.-based firm. “I wanted to represent my team, so I wrote down all our names, and N, I, Y and A popped up the most,” she shares. And does she live with these highly personal designs? “I do! We have the Reyn pendants in our kitchen; the Lauz, Niya and Abbie sconces in the bedrooms; the cloud-like Demille flush mount in a hall; and the January table lamp in my office,” describes Cheng. In short, a resounding yes. @mandychengdesign; mitzi.com
JAIPUR LIVING X BARCLAY BUTERA
To mark five years of inspired collaboration this spring, Newport Beach-based designer Barclay Butera and Jaipur Living have added three rugs to their bestselling Oxford collection. In rich, earthy colorways with evocative names like Bitter Chocolate, Butternut and Military Olive, the floor coverings are handwoven with wool and PET yarn, a sustainable material. “Jaipur Living listens: When I want to introduce fresh palettes, new materials or push our design capabilities, they jump right in,” says Butera, noting that new ideas are often rooted in his latest projects. “Our partnership continues to evolve, blending my signature style with their beautiful craftsmanship. We offer a refined mix of textures and patterns for a truly timeless aesthetic, and these new rugs translate beautifully into traditional, transitional and contemporary interiors alike.” What better way to celebrate this creative anniversary? @barclaybutera; jaipurliving.com
Italian luxury linen brand Pratesi has opened at Bloomingdale’s at the South Coast Plaza. The 300-square-foot space was designed by Manhattan firm Studio Monteleone & Associates with architectural details—woodwork, lacquer, mirrored details—that reflect Pratesi’s history of craftsmanship. Visitors will find the brand’s full range of table linens and bedding, including archival patterns like the floral Millefiori, inspired by Tuscan gardens, and the Treccia collection with its braided motif pulled from Florentine architecture. Towels, robes and other accessories round up the brand’s elevated offerings. Pratesi, which was founded in 1906, garnered a clientele of style giants including Coco Chanel, who commissioned their Tre Righe design for her own Paris home in 1927, Yves Saint Laurent and none other than Hollywood diva extraordinaire Elizabeth Taylor. The latter's preference lays to rest that iconic Italian soft goods mesh with a California lifestyle. pratesi.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
ONE OF THE MOST OUTSIDE-THE-BOX, visionary moves a creative can make is to bring old and new together. This is a core tenet in the work of Ryan Saghian, the award-winning Designer and Owner of Eichholtz Los Angeles. “I believe my ability to merge heritage, history and modernity in a way that feels unapologetically bold yet deeply personal sets me apart,” he shares. “I’m not afraid to take risks, whether it’s reinterpreting old-world craftsmanship for a contemporary audience or curating unexpected materials in a way that feels fresh.” Poised to be LA's ultimate design destination, the showroom features various international art and design brand collaborators throughout the Eichholtz branded space. In addition, Saghian and his team offer professional design services through the showroom's Interieur Design Concierge—a bespoke upholstery resource—and Quick Shipping program.
“It’s not just about being innovative— it’s about having the conviction to pursue an idea before the world catches up.”
Q&A
Share a project that has defined your work. There have been many, but my collaboration with Eichholtz to craft our Los Angeles flagship showroom is a true reflection of my design ethos. It’s an immersive experience that is elevated, curated and undeniably chic. From the furniture selection to the architecture and branding, it was about creating a destination that embodies European elegance with a California sensibility. Where do you find inspiration? My Persian heritage shapes the way I see and create. The poeticism of Persian culture, the mastery of its artisans and the richness of its history continue to influence my approach, reminding me that great design is as much about storytelling as it is about aesthetics.
What is your goal for your work? Design isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about impact. Whether it’s the way a room makes someone feel, the brands I collaborate with or the communities I support, my goal is to leave a lasting imprint. I want my work to inspire, push boundaries and stand the test of time.
Defined overall by a classical level of sophistication and refinement, Saghian’s work exudes a timeless combination of space-defining character, European elegance and personalized moments.
Protect your home with the unmatched strength and temperature resilience of steel windows and doors.
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.
Blur the lines of indoor and outdoor spaces and maximize your views with AG Millworks Bifold Glass Door Systems that stack neatly to the side. Meticulously hand-crafted and tested in Ventura, CA since 1986, these custom door systems embody the essence of luxury living.
Every Crossville tile is crafted from a deeper very understanding of what visions need to be brought to life. From our timeless styles to our lifelong durability, you’ll find the freedom you need to build inspired. eedom
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).
“AS A FIRM, WE ARE ALWAYS EXCITED TO SEE WHAT THE NEXT PROJECT WILL BRING.”
The journey of a firm with a long-standing history is always fascinating—both for the story of its evolution and in the answering of an intriguing question: to what would its originators attribute the longevity? Ask Erik Peterson this question about PHX Architecture, which has been in the business since 2002 and opened new offices in the time since, and the answer centers on the client experience. “Our top priority is always our clients,” he shares. “We take the time to understand their unique needs, desires and visions, ensuring that every decision we make is guided by their goals. Rather than adhering to a specific design style, we tailor our approach to create solutions that truly resonate with each client, delivering results that are both personal and impactful. By focusing on what matters most to our clients, we’re able to craft experiences that are as unique and dynamic as the people we serve.” To that end, Peterson notes that being honest about needs, likes and dislikes is one of the only things the team
Peterson AIA PRESIDENT
really asks of the client. Without that authenticity, they can’t fully exercise their creative and analytical prowess to create exceptional architecture with one main goal in mind: the realization of the client’s dream home. The one other ingredient in PHX’s recipe for success?
Please share influences and inspirations that inform your work. Personally, I appreciate Frank Lloyd Wright’s approach to nature and organic architecture. I also enjoy the work of John Lautner, who worked under Frank Lloyd Wright.
How do you include the client in your creative process?
The process begins with an in-depth discussion where we learn about the client’s tastes, preferences, lifestyle and aspirations for the project. This may include reviewing the client’s ideas, inspirations and any specific requirements they have. Based on the initial brief, we create a few concept designs or sketches to present different design directions. Clients provide feedback, we refine and then advanced tools like 3D renderings and virtual-reality walk-throughs are the final stage before construction. We even provide physical models! Erik
“We take immense pride in the unique talents of our staff,” Peterson says. “It’s their dedication and creativity that sets us apart in every market.”
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
Design is more than what meets the eye—it’s vision, collaboration and the ability to bring bold ideas to life all while managing the business. On the following pages, today’s women of design showcase their skills in every area, as they shape the next chapter of the industry and inspire future generations with leadership, ingenuity and passion.
What defines great design? “Today, more than ever, we need to understand that design extends beyond spaces—it shapes and fuels behavior,” says Chinmaya Misra. An award-winning designer and the Founder and Owner of CHINCHIN Design—her Los Angeles-based interior design studio—Misra is known for her educated and comprehensive approach to crafting timeless, livable, joyful environments that effortlessly balance form and function. “Tailoring each project with a fresh, thoughtful perspective, we specialize in creating comfortable, contemporary spaces that are true to each client’s personality and lifestyle,” she shares. Other important elements in Misra’s work are architecture and nature. “We are redefining the relationship between architecture, nature and people, creating spaces that exist and adapt in perfect harmony with their surroundings and are as dynamic as those who inhabit them.”
“As a trained architect now practicing interior design, I view interiors as an extension of a building’s inherent architecture, seamlessly integrating the two to create cohesive, harmonious spaces,” Misra says. “My education at the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) shaped my design perspective. Founded in 1972, SCI-Arc’s avant-garde approach sets it apart from traditional schools, encouraging innovation and creative freedom. It taught me to view constraints not as limitations, but as opportunities—catalysts for inventive design. This mindset continues to guide me in creating spaces, large or small, that challenge expectations and break with convention.”
When asked what she foresees for women in design, Misra explains, “The design industry must evolve to prioritize human connections and create an environment where women not only have a voice but also feel safe to express themselves fully. It should be a space where they can be bold, creative, nurturing and introspective—all at once—without constraint or compromise. True innovation flourishes when diverse perspectives are not just included but truly embraced.”
Far left In this Cheviot Hills remodel, a shaped quarter archway strengthens the dining room–breakfast nook connection, creating a seamless flow that feels both intuitive and intentional. Top right Featuring saturated jewel tones and decorative elements, the restroom in this creative office was designed with a residential feel and warm home-like atmosphere. Bottom right Inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s V.C. Morris Gift Shop, this fireplace features layered geometry, where contrasting light gray and dark charcoal tones create a striking focal point while framing its bold, architectural presence.
Great design starts from the ground up. That’s why those who demand the best flooring choose Hakwood. In her role as Regional Sales Manager, Fiona Simon brings her unique expertise and passion to this familyowned firm, which has been leading the way in luxury wood flooring for more than 40 years. “As the premier manufacturer of European oak and ash engineered flooring and cladding, Hakwood is synonymous with quality, innovation and sustainability,” she says. When asked what led her to this outstanding company, Simon shares, “After studying International Business Management and Sales in Milan, I stayed on in Italy for 15 years. Being surrounded by Italy’s rich history, architecture and craftsmanship ignited my love for design and shaped the direction of my career.” Today, Simon is proud to share Hakwood’s tradition of excellence with architects, designers and homeowners in SoCal and across the world.
When asked to share her thoughts on the future of women in design, Simon explains, “With more opportunities for leadership, innovation and creative influence than ever before, the future for women is very promising. Design has always been about problem-solving, storytelling and vision, qualities women bring to the table in abundance. Ultimately, I hope the industry continues to embrace diversity and inclusivity, creating a space where women’s contributions are not just acknowledged but celebrated. By fostering an environment of collaboration and empowerment, we can shape a future where talent, creativity and expertise define success in design.”
“Our mission is to establish a strong global presence by expanding Hakwood’s reach and offering premium-quality finishes, as well as distinctive wall and flooring products,” says Mark Hak, Owner of Hakwood. “Through the fusion of cutting-edge design and sustainable practices, we aim to set ourselves apart from the competition and become the preferred brand for high-end residential solutions. Our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility ensures that our products exceed customer expectations while contributing to a more sustainable future.”
Far left In this stunning Brazilian triplex, Studio Arthur Casas used Hakwood’s Destin for the flooring and Heritage on the staircase with eye-catching results. Top right Designed by Mel Interiors, Hakwood’s Glaze brings ethereal beauty to this luminous living space in the Netherlands. Bottom right Working in collaboration with Bamo, Inc., Hakwood’s Valor was the ideal choice for this sophisticated home in Atherton, California.
A design philosophy where no idea is too large nor detail too small results in homes and environments that energize, elevate and inspire. “From the grand vision down to the smallest details, I take a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates both exterior and interior architecture,” says Lauri Morrison, Founder of her award-winning architecture and design firm, lauri morrison studio. “This ability to design at both the macro and micro levels sets my work apart, ensuring that each project is cohesive, aesthetically stunning and deeply functional.” Where did this passion originate? “When I was young, I built a home for my Barbies out of Legos and was always the one who put together my brothers’ toys and presents,” Morrison recalls. “Later, my mother— recognizing my strengths in math, science and art—encouraged me to pursue architecture. From that moment on, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”
“My primary goal moving forward is to expand my studio by building a dedicated in-house team of top-tier talent, which will allow for even greater creative collaboration and innovation.” Morrison shares. “By integrating experts across architecture, interiors and emerging design technologies, I aim to elevate my firm’s ability to deliver art through architecture, as we continue to design high-end projects with unmatched precision and craft. This growth will ensure that every detail—macro to micro—is executed at the highest level, further solidifying my reputation in luxury design.”
What motivates and energizes Lauri Morrison? “I thrive on turning my clients’ visions into reality and bringing their dream homes to life. As someone who is fascinated by emerging technologies and cuttingedge building systems, I’m always eager to discover new innovations, materials and finishes. Lately, I’ve been particularly impressed by advancements in lighting design and the transformative impact it has on a space.”
Top Seamlessly connecting the new with the old, Morrison reimagined this Stephen Chase architectural gem in Indian Wells. Now, the 9,100-square-foot residence boasts four bedrooms, eight baths and a detached two-bedroom casita. Bottom The intricate ceiling work is just one of the dazzling features in this sophisticated dining room.
When a maker or artisan approaches their work with a distinct method and mission, the results are unique and special. Enter Tina Nicole, Chief Creative Officer at Nathan Anthony Furniture. Widely recognized for their mastery of upholstery craft that is engineered and made to order at their Los Angeles studio, the award-winning firm is a luxury furnishings resource for designers, showrooms and high-end retailers. “Since co-founding Nathan Anthony Furniture in 2005, my husband Khai Mai— who is responsible for operations—and I have been guided by six core principles: daring design, customization options, superior craftsmanship, seamless service, a caring and diverse workplace and respect for the environment,” Nicole says. “Each of our benchmade, upholstered items is crafted with the intention of bringing joy to people in the spaces where they gather to live, play and create lasting memories.”
Top Newport Beach-based interior designer Erica Bryen specified several Nathan Anthony upholstery items for this sophisticated project. Right Inspired by biophilic design, Nathan Anthony’s Michel sectional features deep channeling that mimics organic forms, fostering a sense of comfort and connection to nature. Far right The Soft sectional by Nathan Anthony Furniture checks all the comfort and style boxes.
• What sets you apart in the industry? As the lead designer overseeing development of our award-winning products, I incorporate a spirit of playfulness and exploration into my work, while pushing the boundaries of convention when it comes to both frame shape and finishing. Our clients come to us for bold looks in seating and one-of-akind couture detailing, like dressmaker ruching on the back panel of an accent chair.
• Talk about a mentor who shaped and inspired you. I learned to sew and create things by-hand from my grandmother, who was a highly skilled and successful female entrepreneur in her time. In the 1940s and ‘50s, well-to-do women in Los Angeles sought her out for her gorgeous custom apparel. I definitely inherited my entrepreneurial spirit, passion for textiles and couturier’s attention to detail from her.
• If you weren’t in this profession, what would you be doing? I’d love to help other women in the business world realize their potential as creatives. Everything I’ve learned over the last 20 years at Nathan Anthony, I’ve learned by doing. Although the early years were a little scary, I’ve gained a sense of courage and confidence that I’d like to share. My ultimate goal would be to encourage women to find their own unique voice and follow their own unique path.
310.968.8276 | graniamurray.com | studiograniamurray
Much more than beautiful furnishings, great interior design is a thoughtful art that melds the homeowner’s wants, needs and personality with the passion and expertise that only a visionary design pro can bring. Enter Grania Murray. Her globally acclaimed luxury design firm, Studio Grania Murray, is renowned for crafting bespoke interiors that embody elegance, sophistication and timeless allure. “With a deep reverence for architecture and craftsmanship, we curate spaces that seamlessly blend modern innovation with classic European influences,” she says. “But what truly sets us apart is our attention to detail and ability to create interiors that reflect the unique lifestyles of our discerning clients. From stately residences to boutique hospitality spaces, our white-glove approach results in environments that embody ambition, elevate daily living and are an enduring reflection of personal style.”
• Define success.
Success is when a client steps into their completed space and experiences the emotional culmination of our collaboration. More than a home, it’s now a sanctuary where bespoke craftsmanship meets deeply personal design that’s been seamlessly tailored to their lifestyle.
• What’s new and next?
The new is our recently launched store that spotlights exquisite, women-led, sustainably made objects, including hand-woven textiles and richly grained woods that are sure to become legacy pieces. The next is that we will continue to expand our presence in high-end residential and boutique hospitality, creating spaces where artistry, craftsmanship and innovation converge, and every detail tells a tale.
When asked to share a project that exemplifies her skill and style Murray says, “In our featured project for James Rallison—Founder of YouTube channel TheOdd1sOut—I had to think big, so I installed four large stone book-ended slabs at the fireplace producing a real ‘wow’ moment. It also facilitated the creation of custom shelving in acoustic wood panels to hold their treasured possessions. Additionally, I used handmade pieces from my online store, including hand-woven textiles with lots of texture and detail, sculptural lighting to enhance the home’s atmosphere and artisanal and vintage elements both indoors and out to ensure a beautiful flow throughout the entire open plan space.”
AT STUDIO GRANIA MURRAY, WE BELIEVE THAT TRUE LUXURY ISN’T JUST SEEN, IT’S FELT.”
“I don’t just design homes—I design the way you live in them. My deeply personal approach is built on truly understanding each client, and crafting spaces that feel natural, effortless and uniquely theirs. Based in Pasadena and working throughout Los Angeles, I bring a balance of beauty and function to every project, ensuring that your home isn’t just stylish, but that it works for you. From full-scale renovations to refined refreshes, I guide my clients every step of the way, making the process as seamless as the final design. Let’s work together to create a space that feels like you.”
–GRANIA MURRAY
When an individual is truly born with a passion, it is difficult to pinpoint a singular moment that started their trajectory in life. This is the case for Jessica Viola, who upon being asked what started her career in crafting breathtaking gardens, says, “It was a culmination of deep-seated wonder, creative expression and a longing to understand the intricate connections between human nature and the natural world.” Inspired by a childhood stargazing in New York City and an early career apprenticing at a nursery in San Francisco, Viola founded her firm—and the rest is a history of growth in all ways. “For 20 years, we have designed and built hundreds of droughttolerant, ecologically regenerative gardens across Los Angeles, Ventura and Orange counties,” she shares. “We view landscapes as living, evolving ecosystems that should be not only beautiful but resilient.” Drawing on permaculture principles and decades of experience in the soil, she and her team accomplish just that.
Taking on projects for her clients isn’t the only way Viola brings nature to the forefront. “The Art & Ecology Studio is a botanical design showroom, installation hub and creative incubator,” she enthuses. There, visitors can experience educational programming, hands-on workshops, a seed-sharing library, permaculture forums, biodynamic wine tastings, live music and comedy, stargazing, bocce ball, native plant sales and more.
Viola is all about building upon one’s relationship with Mother Nature, and there are a few resources she relies on to inspire her in that journey. These are her recommendations:
• Podcasts:
Dr. Wayne W. Dyer Podcast and The Good Dirt From Lady Farmer
• Books: Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari, Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer and A Hundred Bells by Jessica Viola—the latter is a richly illustrated guide to the core practices of ecological design that I wrote
What defines the influential woman of design? One factor is possessing the courage and confidence to embrace new opportunities, and another is having the collaborative spirit to build something truly special with likeminded people “My journey in the design industry began with both my career in real estate and with my husband Gregg’s landscaping business, where we worked together to create amazing outdoor spaces,” says Gina Hoffman. “When we were presented with the opportunity to add outdoor kitchens to our repertoire, it felt like a natural next step.”
Nearly a decade on, Gina—along with Gregg—is the creative force behind WWOO Concrete Outdoor Kitchen, a firm that’s celebrated for designing, building and outfitting beautiful, functional, durable outdoor kitchens that elevated their clients’ lives. “WWOO has been a rewarding way to combine our passions with exciting and unexpected results.”
Top Encouraging people to build up instead of out, WWOO’s minimalist shelving adds beauty while maximizing space efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Right Combining versatility with a sleek outdoor design, this kamadostyle cooker creates the perfect setup for grilling and entertaining. Far right A built-in bench is the perfect blend of style and function— creating a seamless, inviting space for lounging, entertaining or simply enjoying the outdoors.
When asked to talk about the people and influences that have inspired her most, Gina exclaims, “None of this would be possible without Piet-Jan, the Founder of WWOO. His innovative vision, his mentorship and the trust he’s placed in Gregg and me to introduce WWOO to the U.S. market and to then adapt and grow the brand in ways that fit our audience has been lifechanging. Another major influence has been our clientele, both with Outside Matters—our landscaping business for the past 30 years—and my 15 years in real estate. Having the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and to see and experience so many amazing spaces has shaped my perspective and inspired me to bring fresh, modern design ideas and creative solutions to outdoor cooking, entertaining and living.”
“Gregg and I are focused on creating spaces where people gather, connect and make lasting memories,” Gina shares. “With that in mind, my ultimate goal is that WWOO becomes the name people think of when they envision an exceptional outdoor kitchen.”
Discover the epitome of luxury in landscape craftsmanship with Scapes LA, nestled in North Hollywood. As a distinguished family-owned enterprise, Scapes LA specializes in the artistry of masonry, landscaping, and hardscaping. Our offerings span exquisite stone veneers, bespoke outdoor wood decking, elegant porcelain pavers, and beyond.
Reconfigured with an eye toward volume, light and warmth, a Spanish-style Laguna Niguel abode steps up its style while retaining its charm.
WRITTEN BY MAILE PINGEL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HUGO LANDA GARCIA
Southern California and Spanish Colonial architecture will forever be connected,” states John Henderson.
“The history is part of our architectural DNA, and the style is perfectly suited for our climate.” That said, the architect goes on to say, Orange County is studded with examples whose features can feel dated—this 1990s-built Spanish Revival residence within an exclusive community of Laguna Niguel being a case in point. “My immediate thought was that it seemed tired but the bones were good,” Henderson recalls of his first glimpse, emphasizing that early conversations with his client centered on improving the home and saving its unique characteristics rather than tearing it down. “What struck me was the quality of light entering the living area; I wanted to preserve and build on that, opening up the spaces to make them more livable,” the architect says. Designer Laura Brophy agrees: “It still had soul. The idea was to bring it back to life.”
A dramatic tone is dialed up right from the threshold. Henderson replaced a traditional arched front door with a monumental doubleheight, steel-and-glass rectangular design, framing it with overgrouted brick. “Approaching the home is a stunning experience now, and it previews the story of its open, light and expansive interiors,” he explains. “The single most important element was maintaining this home’s volume of space, as well as increasing the daylight that dances through it.” With Collin Baldwin and Roberto Garcia helming construction, the reconfigured floor plan ushers in a breezier spirit, better connects to the outdoor spaces and evokes a newfound appreciation for views that stretch to Catalina Island. The architect is also quick to emphasize that this renovation wasn’t about knocking down walls to refresh an older layout. Instead, his approach is more nuanced: Areas seamlessly flow together, nothing is closed off, yet spaces are defined as destinations—from the breakfast nook to a glass-walled wine room fitted under the entry staircase. “This was the canvas for Laura to work her magic,” he says.
The designer focused on instilling a sense of warmth and an earthy feel to the interiors. “Our client really wanted these spaces to feel
inviting, effortless and not overly formal, with plenty of personality and special moments,” she notes. Befitting the coastal setting, Brophy proposed a palette of soft, beach-inspired tones to complement the residence’s use of wood and stone. “Natural colors and textures connect this home to its landscape,” she says, adding that a wabisabi philosophy of embracing the authenticity of imperfection was also key to her design. And while her color scheme is predominantly neutral, she worked with art consultant Victoria Kennedy to introduce moments of contrast and interest through paintings by Southern California artists like Joseph Justus, whose work presides over an office near the entry.
To play off the residence’s architectural curves— see the shapely swoops of a second-story interior bridge showcased just off the striking entry stair— Brophy sourced similarly curvaceous furnishings. “Repeated forms create a sense of calm,” she comments, pointing to the living area’s C-shaped sofa and gently rounded armchairs, as well as the primary bath’s perfectly circular soaking tub. “This is a modernized home, but we kept its original curves, so echoing those shapes in the furnishings feels harmonious.” The design team also opted to preserve elements like an original fireplace off the living area, refinishing it with overgrouted brick to match the entrance. “A lot of people just knock these older homes down and start over, but adding character to a new build is hard to create from thin air,” observes Baldwin. “The combination of old and new sets this house apart.”
Brophy also established a more timeless aesthetic that is particularly evident in the open kitchen, where oak-and-glass cabinetry, vintage-style pendants and black-and-white checkered marble flooring evoke European styles. Upstairs, the primary suite showcases another striking design element that was almost removed until Brophy objected: a wood-paneled ceiling with exposed beams. “I said, ‘No, that’s gold!’ ” the designer recalls, “and it adds so much warmth.” The same suite’s balcony looks out to the Pacific over the pool terrace, where an outdoor kitchen and lounge allude to an idyllic Southern California lifestyle.
“Older Spanish-style houses can be very adaptable to contemporary ways of living,” Henderson concludes. “I’m pleased with how we reimagined this one into a truly spectacular home.”
A multipurpose nook features a custom oak table and a storage banquette upholstered with Pindler fabric. The limestone flooring is from Concept Studio, while a Phillip Jeffries wallcovering and linen Solé Shades window treatments add texture. The pendant is Lostine.
Previous page: Statement stairs star in the entry, where an Armadillo rug gathers an antique table and vessel from Brophy Market with stools of Zak+Fox textile. A Lulu and Georgia mirror hangs by an office and the chandelier is Visual Comfort & Co.
“ THIS IS A MODERNIZED HOME, BUT WE KEPT ITS ORIGINAL CURVES, SO ECHOING THOSE SHAPES IN THE FURNISHINGS FEELS HARMONIOUS.”
–LAURA BROPHY
Once home to celebrated Los Angeles design visionaries, a midcentury modern Pasadena residence is reenlivened with vibrancy and verve.
WRITTEN BY ABIGAIL STONE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROGER DAVIES/OTTO
STYLING BY LISA ROWE
Character-driven homes attract like-minded characters. For the fourth set of Los Angeles creatives inhabiting this midcentury modern Pasadena gem, the 1958-built home’s charms—from a spacious entry foyer to a sunken living room kitted out with library shelving and a rolling ladder—“provoked an emotional response,” recalls Maisie Culver, a television and film writer. “I was knocked out when we walked in.” Her husband, transportation designer David Imai, felt similarly drawn to the home. Their visceral reaction deepened when they learned its history: The dwelling was designed for Lucile and Remy Chatain Sr., second-generation owners of legendary L.A. textile brand CW Stockwell and the creators of its iconic Martinique banana-leaf wallcovering. The pattern is rooted in the city’s culture thanks to decorator Don Loper’s arresting use of it at the Beverly Hills Hotel (over 5 miles of it still flourishes there)—and, fittingly, the famous print features in the Chatains’ former bedroom too. For Maisie and David, both fans of Martinique, which hung in their prior home, this felt like a sign.
The house had been well cared for by a succession of creative stewards, but it begged for zhushing to shine anew. “It was clear to us that this was a ‘wallpaper house,’ especially when we saw photos of it from the 1960s,” notes David.
“We wanted to bring it back to its former glory, taking inspiration from what the Chatains had done as a springboard to a new vision.” To do so, the couple engaged interior designer Peti Lau.
“She uses wallpaper in incredible, interesting ways,” says Maisie. Adds David, “Peti is a very brave designer, fearless in terms of mixing influences, patterns and colors in compositions that create amazing experiences.”
Lau credits her international background for this vivacious aesthetic. “I love creating collected, glamorous homes that showcase my clients’ lives,” says the designer, who draws from an early career spent in Thailand, Mauritius, Europe and New York. Given the residence’s midcentury modern architecture (the work of once-prominent L.A. firm McCarthy, Zemke and Hartfelder), she opted to combine its clean lines with color, contrast and
a certain opulence that nods to the Hollywood Regency design style. Accents of teal, tangerine, yellow and a whole gradient of greens bring a youthful energy to the home, which Lau furnished with famed pieces from midcentury giants like Hans Wegner and Mies van der Rohe. “We chose the period elements we liked without letting them dictate the mix, which is much more eclectic,” the designer notes. She also found places to pay homage to symbols of Californian modernism— see the poolside tableau that pairs yellow scalloped umbrellas with white lounge chairs in a wink to Slim Aarons’ 1970 Poolside Gossip photograph. “It’s such a simple setup, but that image is a cultural touchstone, so it invariably evokes that moment,” Lau observes.
Then there’s the home’s array of wallcoverings. Witness the entry foyer’s exuberant botanical mural, which seems to mirror the vivid foliage of the Arroyo Seco parkland seen through its glass sliders. “The view here feels like we have box seats to this great natural beauty, and that jungle mural brings the outside in,” says David. The graphic banana leaves of Martinique, of course, connect the primary bedroom to the surroundings as well, while the living room’s pale green grass cloth offers a soothing meditation on the lush terrain. And in a dramatic departure, the formal dining room showcases walls wrapped in a hand-painted chinoiserie mural on silver gilded paper given a deep-rose finish. It’s a moody, romantic twist on the foliage-forward theme, entwining the glitz of Hollywood Regency (as seen in the cascading glass droplets of the palm-leaf-inspired chandelier, the pink-marble table and the leopard-print rug) while also referencing the Chatains’ original interiors, which included chinoiserie wallpaper. Saying yes to such a bold combination was a leap of faith, the owners admit, but the result is captivating. “This room is spectacular at sunset or during a candlelit dinner,” Lau enthuses.
The designer also put her stamp on other significant spaces like the living room, where existing beige shelving was revamped with teal paint and geometric wallpaper. Family heirlooms and vintage finds layer in additional warmth, completing a home that honors its past while debuting a dynamic bridge to the future. “My goal is always to set the stage for my clients to have a beautiful life,” she concludes.
In Montecito, a modern ranch-style getaway boasts hospitality-inspired interiors that embrace the concept of livable luxury.
WRITTEN BY KELLY PHILLIPS BADAL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAM FROST
STYLING BY LISA ROWE
Astatuesque set of mature oak trees first sets the tone. This Montecito property’s graceful giants, protected under Santa Barbara County code, played directly into the layout and look of this new retreat. Embracing them—as well as the lot’s walkable proximity to the boutiques and bistros of vibrant Coast Village Road—appealed to its owners, two couples based in Southern California who teamed up to create the ideal weekend escape for their families. The single-level, modern ranchstyle getaway they collectively settled on, oriented amid the oaks, encompasses what architect Michael Maciocia describes as a shift in how people want to experience their weekend homes. “This residence is very elevated but so approachable, and, while the vaulted ceilings are high, from the exterior the house appears unassuming and more of-the-earth,” he describes. “And the connection to the town and beach was everything for our clients, which is kind of the opposite of what usually lures people to Montecito.”
Inside, you’re met with a spacious great room washed in light but also filled with cozier landing spots, from a charming kitchen nook to a sophisticated bar. And in the backyard, amid dappled shadows cast by the preserved trees, the inviting pool and fireplace area are backed by a slope which creates an intimate, cocooned sense of privacy. It’s a setting that enhances the sense of wonder and release so associated with a vacation, the architect muses, citing the nearby Rosewood Miramar Beach resort as an example. “It’s an elite hotel, but it still feels so approachable and timeless. Those were our guiding words.”
Working with two different families to determine the architecture and interiors might sound challenging, but all went smoothly, says Heather Docherty. The designer—and Maciocia’s wife (“Clients often want our double brain,” she quips)—felt that the two couples’ shared collective vision easily aligned with how she and her husband work together. “We balance each other out, like a hunter-gatherer relationship: I’m hyper-specific and will bring together all the small details, while Michael has his eye on the horizon, considering the bigger architectural picture,” she explains with a laugh. “Happily, our clients have elegant taste and a great synergy between them too.”
The overarching goals for this getaway drew from high-end resorts tempered with family-friendly spaces, as both couples have similarly aged young children. Areas with open sight lines, gathering zones and amenities like the pool, sauna and even a chic pantry—a favorite kid destination for snacks—were important inclusions.
“You want a second home to feel like an extension of your first, but with an element of, ‘Oh, this is a special retreat,’ ” observes Docherty. “So we considered the design in a very detailed way—capturing the views, creating privileged bathroom experiences instead of building enormous closets—to make every room feel like the best room in the house.” There’s subtle Parisian and English countryside elements folded in, notes the designer, who kept the palette neutral. The aesthetic also speaks to what she describes as an understated elegance and quiet luxury so emblematic of Montecito. That is, spaces that emphasize quality, craftsmanship and simplicity over anything flashy or trendy. Take the entryway’s conspicuous-yet-classic marble checkerboard flooring, for instance, or the kitchen’s tall, clean-lined custom cabinets that embrace the great room’s height while serving as appliance garages to minimize clutter.
That’s not to say that the home’s natural materials and tonal neutrals feel sleepy. In fact, two key departures spark immediate intrigue and drama. “As you walk in, there’s a peekaboo glimpse of the hidden bar, and adjacent is a jewelbox powder room,” recounts Docherty, who chose a moody burgundy for the bar and dark patternon-pattern surfaces in the powder. “Alongside the artwork, these spaces excite and snag the eye.”
Beyond the visual allure, this residence has a practical side, shares general contractor Ness Hamaoui. As the lot and previous home were badly damaged by 2018’s deadly mudslides, flood control measures were put in place, from elevating the foundation to earthwork, including the removal of car-sized boulders, to aid the new home’s longevity. Noncombustible exterior materials like Hardie board-and-batten siding, stone and metal also insulate it against fires.
A final step was planting eight young oak trees on the property, overseen by landscape architect Christian Hedberg, in a gesture toward a future filled with years of memory-making in this magical setting—“when our clients’ kids all start to take over,” jokes Docherty.
“We considered the design in a very detailed way to make every room feel like the best room in the house.”
–HEATHER DOCHERTY
805.449.2840 | agourasash.com | agourasash
At a time when everything from working and entertaining to enjoying a staycation with family is done from home, the desire to design a bespoke dream home is compelling. Whether for a remodel or ground-up new build, homeowners are seeking a level of personalization that demands creativity and optimization—and this is especially relevant in the conversation around indoor-outdoor living. Enter, Agoura Sash & Door. “We offer the windows, doors, hardware and building materials that homeowners and design pros are seeking to create indoor-outdoor flow,” says Dan Smith, the company’s President. “Our customers want the option to open their homes to the outside. Bifolding doors, pocketing systems, narrow trims for larger view corridors—it’s all trending.” Offering more natural light, picturesque vistas and flow from indoors to out, these concepts are reigning in the renovation world.
OUR CUSTOMERS WANT TO BRING THE OUTDOORS IN, AND WE MAKE THAT DREAM REALITY.”
Anyone who has ever taken on a reno knows that the team in place can make or break the project. The experts at Agoura agree, and that’s why they recommend choosing wisely. “We advise that clients hire a reputable contractor and/or builder,” Smith says. “There are always surprises along the way, and a skilled contractor or builder can help plan and mitigate mistakes or issues. In addition, good planning with products chosen early in the cycle means that installation can happen right away when that stage of the project has been reached.”
Asked to share the value Agoura brings to its customers, Smith points to the nearly endless options a dedicated purveyor can make available. “Those versed in any field will have access to materials, products, machinery and tools that open up new possibilities,” he says. “This is how the big dreams— especially those with unique features—become reality.”
Top Fleetwood always has and continues to lead the pack in quality and innovation for custom residential contemporary architecture. Bottom Fleetwood’s expansive Series 3000 enables seamless indoor-outdoor living with pocketing and multislide doors.
In a locale with as many breathtaking natural vistas as California, windows and doors prove a vital consideration in the design of one’s home. At All Weather Architectural Aluminum, this fact is understood and accommodated in every product. “We have been designing and manufacturing custom aluminum windows and doors for more than 55 years,” says President Sarah Harper. “Utilizing the highest quality of materials and applying superior workmanship, we offer a comprehensive range of energy-efficient, thermally broken aluminum windows and doors.” As a third-generation family-owned company, All Weather also knows a thing or two about connecting with its clients—homeowners and design pros alike. “Our core values are excellence, integrity, empowerment, accountability, respect and customer service. We help every client find the perfect customized solution for their project.”
All Weather offers multiple window and door series with varying frame depths, frame options, minimum and maximum sizes, glazing options and performance levels. Here are the most recent offerings:
• Windows: All our window options feature mitered corners for a clean, contemporary aesthetic. The Series 6100 and Series 6200 windows are both Title 24 compliant using the prescriptive method.
• Doors: The Series 8100 Multi Slide is our signature door product and offers endless design possibilities, with an unlimited number of panels and 90-degree corner, pocketing and flush stacking configurations.
“An open floor plan is the trend now,” Harper shares. “In smaller homes, where it might be difficult to achieve this, the illusion can be created using larger window sizes or a door that brings in light. This makes the spaces feel more expansive.”
Top All Weather worked with Studio 101 Designs to bring stunning luminosity and views to The Vineyard Oasis in Healdsburg, California. Left Energy-efficient, custom aluminum windows flood this home office with natural light and fresh air. Right Expansive multi-slide doors provide seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Photography Adam Potts Photography
Everyone has their unique reasons for taking on a major home build or renovation, but one theme seems to stand out among today’s project goals: longevity and elegance in materials. That leads many Southern Californians to the doors of Neolithic Materials. As a premier purveyor of stone and stone-crafted features like fountains, sinks and planters, the company brings the beauty and durability of stunning natural stone to exquisite projects throughout the region. Owners Tom Ricondo and Erwin Gutenkunst combined 40 years of experience in the industry when they merged their two businesses in 2020. Their passion for the process and product is clear. “Whether our clients seek an authentic antique, a custom piece with vintage flair or a modern masterpiece, we’re dedicated to uncovering the perfect stone to tell their story,” Ricondo says. Gutenkunst adds, “Our mission is to breathe new life into ancient treasures, crafting them into unique, bespoke pieces that transcend time and trends.”
Ricondo answers this question with three insights.
• Traditional homes are making a comeback, and the ultramodern aesthetic is fading.
• Reclaimed stone has also made a resurgence. It’s wonderful to see these classic architectural elements incorporated into new homes.
• Outdoor living spaces are just as important as indoor ones, especially in areas with great weather.
Upon being asked to share the overarching sentiment among Neolithic’s design pro clients, Gutenkunst says, “Custom, custom, custom. Architects and designers are always seeking unique materials to avoid repetition in their projects. They value having a wide range of options to present to their clients. This is where our expertise can be invaluable. Because we don’t represent a single factory or quarry, we can offer a diverse world of possibilities. Our expertise ensures that homeowners and design pros alike receive guidance on selecting suitable materials for specific applications and implementing correct installation methods for long-lasting results.”
Home to the most extensive inventory of its kind in Los Angeles, DAO crafts original furnishings and pieces from exotic woods and stone. Using largeformat slabs, various woods, petrified wood and stone to create furniture and sculptures for both the indoors and out, DAO is unrivaled in the industry. daohome.com | 310.289.8717
This classic home in the prime flats area of Beverly Hills boasts new hardwood flooring and wall paneling, a custom marble fireplace and beautiful lighting. Finishes by SHL Designs. laurimorrison.com | laurimorrisonstudio
Bespoke projects require bespoke solutions. Archetype Design Collective offers comprehensive in-house design, construction management and selfperformed installation solutions that fulfill the most discerning of projects. “From conception through construction, please allow us to share our 50-year legacy of craftsmanship and integrity with you!” archetypedesigncollective.com archetypedesigncollective
SFDC’s beautifully curated showrooms represent 2,000 manufacturers, whose product lines are sourced locally and internationally. Discover the best in traditional and contemporary furniture, fabrics, lighting, kitchen and bath products, antiques, art, rugs, flooring, cabinetry and ceramic tile. sfdesigncenter.com | 415.490.5821
Offering services from new construction and full remodels to furniture selection and styling, EG Design Co. specializes in luxury residential and boutique commercial design. Their collaborative, client-focused approach ensures a seamless process, making each step enjoyable while delivering thoughtful, tailored interiors that reflect and inspire individual lifestyles. eg-designco.com | eclectic_goods
Great windows and doors make a house feel warm and charming. With nearly every window and door style one could want, LUXE windows + doors carries premium brands whose superior products last. luxewd.com | 310.666.0051
LA CAN DO’s Soft Landing is a relief effort organized by a collective of design industry leaders with a mission to provide essential furnishings and home goods for displaced families so they may recover with comfort, warmth and dignity.
Every donation—big or small—brings hope for those starting anew. Together, we can turn empty spaces into welcoming homes, filled with the promise of a brighter tomorrow.