Step inside an exploration of 12 breathtaking culinary spaces as 12 design firms from across the country invite you into their portfoliodefining works. Presented by Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove, the following pages celebrate the details and dedication that go into every kitchen project, from the overall aesthetic vision and lifestyle dreams to finish choices, careful measurements, spatial balance and—of course—appliance selection. Keep reading for an exclusive look into each designer’s creative world.
LAURA KEHOE OWNER, LAURA KEHOE DESIGN
Known for being great listeners, Laura Kehoe and her team have spent more than 15 years crafting beautiful environments that are entirely personalized.
TINEKE TRIGGS
OWNER, TINEKE TRIGGS INTERIORS
With a penchant for vibrant hues, bold patterns and unexpected combinations, Tineke Triggs considers herself an artist and mixologist, bringing eclectic spaces to life.
SUSAN MARINELLO FOUNDER, SUSAN MARINELLO INTERIORS
When Susan Marinello designs a kitchen, she is striving to make a place that enhances its owners’ well-being and elevates their perspective on every aspect of life.
JOY YOUNG
PRESIDENT, TOWNHOUSE KITCHENS
For Joy Young, kitchen design is all about expanding the boundaries of a traditional design approach to infuse personality into every moment and minute detail.
REYNALDO ROUCO
PRESIDENT, MIACUCINA
When a space must meet functional goals, look beautiful and stand the test of time, quality is key—and this is what Reynaldo Rouco and team’s millwork is known for.
BROOKE WAGNER
OWNER, BROOKE WAGNER DESIGN
The kitchen is where one begins and ends the day, and Brooke Wagner takes the mission of designing an environment that supports every functional need to heart.
FERN SANTINI
PRINCIPAL, FERN SANTINI
At the heart of every Fern Santini design is a love for mixing precious pieces with trendy elements—marrying the vintage and the new in delightfully unexpected kitchens.
YVONNE JACOBS
PRINCIPAL, JACOBS + INTERIORS
Design is the path toward living your best life. This belief drives every decision and selection made by Yvonne Jacobs and her expert team, no matter the project.
MICK DE GIULIO PRESIDENT, DE GIULIO DESIGN
For Mick De Giulio and his team, kitchen design is all about capturing the client’s essence to create spaces that have a distinctive soul and improve lifestyles, day in and day out.
BARETTE WIDELL AND CHRISTINA BOSCHETTI
PRINCIPALS, WIDELL + BOSCHETTI
Determined, motivated and imaginative, Barette Widell and Christina Boschetti combine their talents to achieve timeless, quiet luxury in every design.
MARIE-JOE BOUFFARD
PRINCIPAL, JFY DESIGNS
With a goal of crafting spaces that feel expansive and practical, yet imbued with cozy vignettes and personality, Marie-Joe Bouffard is beloved for her custom approach.
DONNA VENEGAS
OWNER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR, VENEGAS AND COMPANY
A particular eye for the kitchen— with all of its precise measurements and practical needs—guides Donna Venegas and her team in a passion-fueled process.
laura kehoe , scottsdale , az
VIEWS TWO WAYS
When designer Laura Kehoe first stepped foot into this incredible home designed by PHX Architecture, one factor was immediately clear: she would have to do justice to some awe-inspiring views. Not only are the sightlines throughout the home expansive, but the kitchen is immediately seen upon leaving the foyer. “This felt perfect, because the kitchen always drives our direction throughout a project,” Kehoe shares. “It’s where people gather and usually the first space in which a family spends significant time each day everyone needs to love it.” In this project, it started with a goal of warming things up. “When the ceilings are so high, you often want to bring more warmth to the interior,” Kehoe explains. “We used aged brass and mixed finishes throughout to accomplish this. A suite of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove products is the centerpiece. As designers, we love the flexibility the brand offers across all styles. We can do pretty much anything with creative paneling and color options through the knobs and bezels.” Plus, she enthuses, the local Arizona team makes the process a delight. “We couldn’t ask for better support. We love visiting the showroom to see what is new and experience the chef-led cooking demos, and they make the process simple from start to finish.”
With multiple Sub-Zero column refrigerators and freezers in the main kitchen, a refrigerator with freezer drawers in the butler’s pantry, two wine storage units, a Wolf dual-fuel range, a convection steam oven, multiple Cove dishwashers and more, the better question is really, what doesn’t this kitchen have?
photography by laura moss; styling by mandy cousins
susan marinello , seattle , wa STYLE + SUBSTANCE
It used to be that the living space was the center from which one took in the views of a home. Nowadays, it’s often the kitchen (or ideally, both). For Susan Marinello’s waterfront clients, crafting the dream kitchen was a threefold goal: emphasize and complement the views, choose light and bright finishes and incorporate nearly every culinary feature one could imagine. For the final, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove was the obvious partner. “With the Designer Series refrigeration we used, you have these gorgeous cabinet fronts that blend beautifully, but then when you open the door, it is practical perfection,” Marinello says. “That form-meets-function balance embodies my overall philosophy.” To that end, she and her team are celebrated for their belief that design enhances the user’s well-being, lifestyle and perspective on everyday tasks. It’s little wonder they lean on Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove for many a project. “With this suite of products integrated into their new design, my clients have a kitchen that invites gathering, entertaining and experimenting with recipes.” It’s also a prime place to take in the views. “What we see outside the windows always guides the interior palette, furnishings and how we tell the client’s story,” Marinello says. “This kitchen showcases the stunning results of that influence.”
“I have lived with Sub-Zero for 30 years. My produce, salad greens and meat are always fresh, above and beyond what other brands can do.”
With two islands and a dedicated bar area, this kitchen is made for entertaining. The large appliance suite includes a Sub-Zero refrigerator, freezer, wine storage unit, beverage center and undercounter ice maker, a Wolf six-burner dual-fuel range with an infrared dual griddle and a Cove dishwasher.
photography by aaron leitz; styling by janna lufkin
DYNAMIC DUO
One could say that the kitchen is a carefully orchestrated marriage of two major elements: millwork and appliances. Enter, Reynaldo Rouco and his team at MiaCucina. He shares, “For this project, the bay views were key, so we wanted to achieve an open yet functional space that seamlessly integrates high-end appliances with our signature Italian millwork.” Naturally, Sub-Zero’s unparalleled panel-ready options provided a defining selection. “We were also excited about the performance features, from Sub-Zero’s exceptional preservation technology to Wolf’s precision and versatility to Cove’s advanced cleaning and quiet operation,” Rouco says. While on the subject, he offers up a personal anecdote: “The Wolf range revolutionized my cooking experience. Its precise temperature control and versatile cooking modes have elevated the quality of my meals, making it easier to achieve professional-level results at home and with little to no effort!”
It’s an experience the owners of his beautifully crafted project will now have as well, as they enjoy their contemporary Italian millwork masterpiece.
All about the views but also designed for supreme practicality and entertaining, this kitchen features numerous fan favorites: a Wolf convection steam oven, a contemporary gas cooktop, hood liner, coffee system and drawer microwave with a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer.
photography by kris tamburello; styling by joy bennett
reynaldo rouco , miami , fl
tineke triggs , san francisco , ca
PANACHE + PERFORMANCE
Most designers will say that every project has its special flair. But there is something extra enticing about the blank canvas of a new-build, whole-home dream concept. For Tineke Triggs, one San Carlos residence presented precisely this opportunity. “After living in the area for more than a decade, my clients jumped on the chance to purchase this corner lot when it became available,” she shares. “They envisioned a New England-style home with a white picket fence, made for entertaining … and that idea certainly extended to the kitchen.”
With aesthetics and high function both top of mind, Triggs and team immediately knew that their appliance selections would be a defining factor. “We turned to Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove and incorporated everything on the homeowners’ wish list,” Triggs says. “We wanted cabinetry akin to beautiful furnishings. We were able to accomplish this thanks to Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove’s panel-ready options, while ensuring that every appliance goal, from the refrigeration to the range to the wine column, was met.” It’s the best of style meets sophisticated practicality, which is Triggs’ modus operandi. Also core to her ethos is a focus on the experience to come for the homeowner. “Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove’s U.S.-based operations means that replacement parts are readily available and there is a large network of repair specialists, ensuring long-term support.”
“Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances are energy-efficient, reliable and long-lasting, reducing the frequency of replacements and minimizing waste in landfills. Their commitment to sustainability aligns with eco-friendly home design.”
An expansive floor plan is a bonus when designing a kitchen, and this final concept makes the most of it. A Sub-Zero refrigerator, freezer and undercounter beverage center, a Wolf gas range, convection steam oven, warming drawer and microwave and a Cove dishwasher—it has it all!
photography by aaron leitz; styling by mikhael romain
joy young , new york city , ny
DRIVEN BY DETAIL
When couples share a home, does design become a compromise? Usually, this is somewhat true, but a great designer will take two halves and make them whole, merging both wish lists and influences into one environment. Take Joy Young and the kitchen she affectionately describes as having the “marriage” palette. “The wife of the two loved neutrals,” Young shares. “Meanwhile, her husband had a strong preference for wood grain and gloss finishes. The pairing of glossy wood veneer with the matte finish of other surfaces brought the two visions together beautifully.” Young continues to elaborate on the level of thought and detail she employed in sourcing for the project: “They often cook with saffron, turmeric and other spices that can stain marble. That made the countertop choice critical, and we went with a porcelain by Neolith.” They also chose a suite of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances for their performance capabilities and their aesthetic versatility. “I love that Sub-Zero’s refrigeration has flexibility on the weight and height of panels you can use,” Young says. “I can even utilize ribbed paneling that adds to the seamlessness.”
This sleek and striking kitchen includes two Wolf ovens alongside a Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer hidden behind the project-defining custom panels.
photography by joshua mchugh; styling by frances bailey
brooke wagner , newport beach , ca
SMALL BUT MIGHTY
There comes a moment in every designer’s career wherein they have the chance to create their own personal oasis. For Brooke Wagner, this manifested itself in a waterfront home. “We moved from a larger house that we had custom-built, because we wanted beach access and great views for our family of ocean lovers,” she shares. “Downsizing to this updated 1950s cottage has meant that every square inch needs to serve a purpose.” Of course, this is especially relevant in the kitchen. The layout was given ample thought, but so too were the appliance selections. “Because we are so tight on space, I chose to eliminate the microwave and, in its place, installed a convection steam oven,” Wagner says. “We use it every day for everything, from reheating leftovers to baking, toasting bread and steaming vegetables, rice and fish.” She adds that it has brought a new level of flawlessness to her signature recipe: puffy German pancakes—“get in touch for the recipe!” The steam oven isn’t her only Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove love, though. “Years ago, when I purchased my first Sub-Zero refrigerator, I noticed such a difference in the duration of produce freshness,” Wagner says. “That is still true today, and I appreciate the continued innovations for style versatility, like the panel-ready design that eliminates the exposed vent.”
The indoor kitchen on this project features a Wolf gas range and convection steam oven, Sub-Zero refrigeration and a Cove dishwasher, but it doesn’t end there. A trip to the roof reveals a gorgeous outdoor kitchen complete with Sub-Zero refrigerator drawers and a Wolf grill.
photography by lisa romerein; styling by rebecca farr
fern santini , austin , tx
GALLERY FOR A CHEF
While every project a designer takes on has unique attributes that contribute to the joy of working on it, there are some endeavors that come to embody a special essence. Imagine, for example, a homeowner who is an Anglophile with a robust collection of English bird engravings and wants their residence to feel like the country houses of Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens. This, indeed, would be a once-in-a-lifetime sort of project, and it is precisely where designer Fern Santini found herself with a recent client. “We decided to turn the kitchen into a gallery for those engravings, with the added twist of Simone Crestani’s blown-glass birds and animals hanging above the island like food larder,” Santini enthuses. “It’s not every day that a well-loved and functional kitchen can also serve as an art showcase.” As for the function element, Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances played a key role. “The Sub-Zero integrated refrigerator and freezer make this concept oh-so-perfect,” Santini says. “With no exposed vents or metal trim, and the very best in performance, it brings the pretty together with the practical.” Meanwhile, the Wolf rangetop infuses a pop of bold color via its well-known knobs. “I personally feel this is the workhorse of the kitchen, but I appreciate the style element as well, especially since Wolf now offers so many finish options—I do love to mix brass with stainless!”
“Cove is my favorite dishwasher, bar none. It has all the bells and whistles, with added flexibility inside. It dries infinitely better than others ... and it has a six-year warranty!”
A unique kitchen demands a high-impact custom suite of appliances. A Sub-Zero column refrigerator and freezer with ice maker provide panel-hidden performance, while the Wolf built-in double ovens and the rangetop’s iconic knobs steal the show.
photography
by nathan schroder; styling by adam fortner
mick
de giulio , chicago , il
PRECISE PERFECTION
The kitchen is arguably the most high-function space in any home, so it’s natural that the homeowner’s lifestyle guides its creation. For designer Mick De Giulio, the featured project started out just this way. “Our repeat clients wanted to update their kitchen to accommodate a growing family—now including spouses and grandchildren—within the existing footprint. Refrigeration topped their list, so step one was to incorporate a 36-inch-tall column refrigerator as well as a drawer section for drinks.” Alongside these Sub-Zero upgrades, an impressive doubleoven Wolf range and a more spacious island bring the expanded capabilities the owner’s craved. For De Giulio, the invitation to focus on this culinary center made the project a favorite. “I’ve always been drawn to the challenge of precision,” he says. “Unlike placing a sofa, you can’t easily move an island if it’s a few inches off.” The same is true for appliances. For this reason, De Giulio says, “Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove has earned my trust. Over the years, I’ve experienced firsthand the quality, consistency and best practices by which they operate, and my clients are always thrilled with their appliances.”
This remodel for a repeat client certainly leaves nothing left to be desired, with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, refrigerator drawers, a freezer with an ice maker, a dual-fuel Wolf range and a Cove dishwasher.
photography by werner straube; styling by hilary rose
marie - joe bouffard , nashville , tn
SPATIAL INGREDIENTS
In the modern age of fast-paced lifestyles, open floor plans often lie at the heart of the high-end, high-function home. However, these layouts do present their own set of design challenges. Just ask Marie-Joe Bouffard. She elaborates, in discussion about her featured project: “The goal was to blend modern function with historical elegance, as the exterior of the home sits firmly in the classic camp but the floor plan is expansive. One of my aims was to create cozy moments within those larger rooms, especially the kitchen.” Indeed, touches of deep wood tones and golds bring the warmth back into the otherwise light and bright culinary space. Bouffard shares more about her influences, saying, “I come from a French-Canadian family who loves to cook and entertain. My approach to designing my clients’ kitchens is akin to how I cook, in a way. Most of the ingredients for a great kitchen may be similar: quality appliances, great lighting, functional storage, etc. But the result is always unique, flavored by the clients’ preferences.” In this case, a stunning shade of painted cabinetry gives way to pops of color in cool hues and the Wolf range’s iconic red knobs. Panel-front Sub-Zero refrigeration is beautifully concealed, contributing to the design while enabling the homeowners to take full advantage of stellar appliance performance.
Light, bright, beautiful and chock-full of culinary goodness—welcome to this stunning kitchen. A Wolf dual-fuel range complete with the iconic red knobs, hood insert and warming drawer pairs with Sub-Zero refrigeration and a built-in Cove dishwasher.
photography by zeke ruelas; styling by kendra surface
SLEEK + CHIC
When the source is meaningful, receiving recognition can feel like the culmination of years spent perfecting a craft. For Yvonne Jacobs, being named a Design Icon by a family of brands she has consistently leaned on to execute stunning concepts might just be that moment—especially because the featured project is so impressive. “The remodel was extensive, as the client purchased a traditional home but wanted to reimagine it in a modern-meetsmountain aesthetic,” Jacobs explains. “For the kitchen, function was of the utmost importance.” Jacobs and team incorporated storage wherever they could, commissioned custom-made dark oak cabinetry from Heartwood Custom Woodworks and craned in a steel beam as an alternative to an existing column that disrupted the design. The eye-catcher in the space? Those iconic red knobs on the Wolf range. “Everything else has a paneled front, but that appliance is the perfect standout,” she says. Jacobs elaborates on her love of Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove’s flexibility. “Every client wants a different feel for their kitchen, so I appreciate that you can go very classic or very integrated.”
Combining a Sub-Zero column refrigerator and freezer with undercounter refrigerator drawers takes this kitchen’s fresh-food functionality to another level. It also features a Wolf dual-fuel range, convection steam oven and hood liner.
yvonne jacobs , edwards , co
photography by eric lucero; styling by natalie warady
barette widell and christina boschetti , philadelphia , pa
A BAKER’S DREAM
Every so often, a single point of inspiration guides an uncommonly creative design concept. In the featured project by designers Barette Widell and Christina Boschetti—the latter’s personal residence—this is precisely the story. “We wanted to bring the outside in, since Christina’s home is surrounded by trees,” Widell shares. “The stone simulates roots of a tree, and we used it in unexpected ways.” Boschetti chimes in, “We also incorporated bold motifs and expressive colors, all of which were inspired by that organic sense of beauty. My intention was to create kitschy, unanticipated moments throughout the long, narrow space.” Alongside this, her appliance wish list came into play. Sub-Zero’s panel-ready refrigeration suited the design and provided an interior water dispenser, something Boschetti notes “isn’t always a given in luxury refrigeration” and which was essential for her family. But the Wolf range is the real star. “I bake a lot, and since baking is like a science, the temperature balance is a game changer,” Boschetti says. “My mom’s chocolate cake recipe, which she invented at 16 for her chemistry thesis, is extremely fragile. The varied reaction of a typical oven can change the outcome. Since using my Wolf appliance, it has been perfected with ease on dozens of occasions.”
From the Wolf gas range, microwave drawer and coffee maker to the Sub-Zero refrigerator, freezer and wine storage unit to the panel-ready Cove dishwasher, every appliance in this awe-inspiring, one-of-a-kind kitchen is a high-performance win.
photography by joshua mchugh; styling by helen crowther
donna venegas , boston , ma
HIDDEN GEMS
In the case of a especially unique property, an unconventional approach is sometimes necessary. Take Donna Venegas’ recent project in which a townhome in Boston’s Charlestown Navy Yard had all the makings of a wow-worthy residence. It faces an active marina and is just steps from the USS Constitution, but it needed a bit of help to reach its full potential. “Walls came down to share the light throughout the first floor, and the kitchen was relocated to the south-facing patio,” the designer shares. “The open plan was the trickiest bit how to design a kitchen that doesn’t feel like one? We layered materials and brought in metals, stained woods, textured metallic tile and leathered marble countertops.” Venegas and team also took full advantage of Sub-Zero’s concealed refrigeration, hidden behind panels that complement the aesthetic. “We were able to recess the Wolf contemporary gas cooktop into the marble countertops, too. The recirculating vent insert fits perfectly behind the custom brass hood.” Asked to share her personal favorite feature, Venegas says, “I just adore the integrated refrigerator drawers. I incorporate at least one into every kitchen. They are so compact and useful, whether in the kitchen, a primary suite or out on the deck.”
Designed for cooking and entertaining alike, this stunning space features a contemporary gas cooktop, wall oven and microwave from Wolf for multitasking at its best. The Sub-Zero refrigerators, wine storage unit and beverage center top it all off.
photography by joshua mchugh; styling by helen crowther
Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove’s extraordinary showrooms o er an experience like no other, with a focus on education and inspiration. Chef-led cooking demonstrations showcase capabilities while delighting the senses. Consultants explain features and finishes. Collaborative space welcomes conversations between homeowners and their designers. There’s only one element missing: the sale. For that, guests are directed toward Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove’s trusted network of dedicated dealers. Visit a showroom to be welcomed, enlightened and nourished.
1 Boston, MA; 2 Milford, MA; 3 South Norwalk, CT; 4 Manhattan, NY; 5 Roslyn Heights, NY; 6 Pine Brook, NJ; 7 Syracuse, NY; 8 Bu alo, NY; 9 Philadelphia, PA; 10 Columbia, MD; 11 Richmond, VA; 12 Cleveland, OH; 13 Auburn Hills, MI; 14 Cincinnati, OH; 15 Charlotte, NC; 16 Atlanta, GA; 17 Miami, FL; 18 St. Louis, MO; 19 Chicago, IL; 20 Glendale Heights, IL; 21 Minneapolis, MN; 22 Kansas City, MO; 23 Houston, TX; 24 Dallas, TX; 25 Denver, CO; 26 Salt Lake City, UT; 27 Scottsdale, AZ; 28 Costa Mesa, CA; 29 San Francisco, CA; 30 Seattle, WA
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Featured: Espresso Machine and Warming Drawer. Hawk & Co, Club 1683 member
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Experience the Difference: Club 1683
Gaggenau, maker of luxury kitchen appliances and the Home Kitchen Appliance Brand Partner of the MICHELIN Guide, prioritizes partnerships with its trade network. Club 1683 was developed to offer a select group of top tier industry trade professionals the opportunity to participate in the exclusive membership program promoting excellence in residential kitchen design. Qualified participants, including luxury designers, residential architects, kitchen studios, and single-family builders, gain access to personalized guidance, professional assistance, rewards and exclusive experiences.
For those who know the extraordinary.
Learn how to qualify.
The difference is Gaggenau
Company’s Coming
Design isn’t just our business, it’s our passion.
As an editor, I am not only captivated by images of great architecture and design— I’m obsessed with them. They become my inspiration and my escape, and I’m lucky to be surrounded by a like-minded staff As a team, we live for that alchemical moment when we review an extraordinary home, fall in love with it and immediately start planning how to best show it to you, our readers. That is our primary mission: to feature great design and the people who create it.
Inside this issue, you’ll nd inspiring ideas from top design talents who share strategies for the ultimate guest room, elegant festive decor, perfecting the powder room and all things relevant to prepping for this holiday season. As for gifting, we’ve curated a collection of designers’ favorites along with gift ideas from artisans we’ve previously featured. But before you dive into those stories, take a close look at the creatively designed kitchens from across the country in our opening pages.
You may view this as our endof-year issue, but for me it’s the beginning of a transformative year at LuxeInteriors + Design. In 2025, we will be evolving the look of the magazine and the way we tell stories, all while remaining focused on our goal of bringing you the very best of American design. It is this spirit that we bring to the season of gathering and gratitude while we celebrate the creativity of the design community.
Wishing you peace and happiness in the new year.
Cohen in Chief me @jilleditsluxe Jill Editor Follow me
At Alfredo Paredes’ Locust Valley, New York, home, the holidays call for mantels and banisters bedecked with garlands.
NEW YORK CHICAGO DALLAS NASHVILLE BOSTON SAN FRANCISCO GREENWICH SHORT HILLS CANNES JAKARTA
SCENE
WRITTEN BY LAURA HINE | PRODUCED BY CLÉMENCE SFADJ
NEW CHAPTERS
DESIGN POWERHOUSES HOLLY HUNT AND MOLTENI&C SHARE AN INSIDE LOOK AT THEIR DEBUT BOOKS AND RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS.
WRITTEN BY ELIZABETH EXLINE
HOLLY HUNT
If you want to know what to expect from Holly Hunt’s recently published monograph, look no further than the title: Holly Hunt: Fearless in the World of Design Minimalist, direct and full of personality, it embodies what Holly Hunt (both the designer and the brand) is all about. “The central question in the book is, ‘How did you find so much success without any professional training?’ ” Hunt observes. The answer is deeply personal: As a single mom of three sons, she knew fear and failure played no part in her future. Accordingly, the book’s selected projects all shine a light on how she redefined American design by leveraging craftsmanship, precise proportions and the collective expertise of a team that came to feel like family. As she says, “Innovation and inspiration are imperative to success.” Accordingly, this summer the brand launched its Series II line of sculptural furniture (left), which incorporates their trademark artful lines and comfort-inducing proportions. “Each of the pieces has a personality and a refined story to tell,” Hunt observes. hollyhunt.com; rizzoliusa.com
MOLTENI&C
Just as its cover evokes a movie set, Molteni Mondo: An Italian Design Story tells the saga of a family legacy that owes its success as much to creative vision as to exquisite craftsmanship. Marking the brand’s 90th anniversary, the recently released monograph takes readers through the triumph of Molteni&C’s iconic designers (including Vincent Van Duysen), its production processes, its details and designs (with a special focus on the Gio Ponti collection showcased within the Venezuelan villa) and its museum in Italy. “At the center is the representation of a world of objects and thoughts, ambitions and imperfections, rooted in the desire to cultivate a deep knowing of how to do and be,” says Giulia Molteni, chief marketing officer of Molteni Group. The family-owned company has also opened seven flagship stores this year in major cities across the globe that exemplify their approach to Italian design: Take a passion for art and functionality, factor in collaboration with the industry’s brightest minds and stay open to reinvention. molteni.it/us; rizzoliusa.com
OPEN HOUSE
LUXE SPOTLIGHTS NEW OR NEWLY RENOVATED SHOWROOMS OFFERING CAN’T-MISS RESOURCES IN THE
REGION.
BAKES & KROPP
Sag Harbor was the first East Coast showroom for custom cabinetry company Bakes & Kropp when they expanded from Michigan, and the location continues to be important for the luxury cabinetmaker.
“When I think of Sag Harbor, I think of refinement, heritage and modern luxury,” says Paul Kropp, company co-founder and head of operations. “These three qualities are perfectly synonymous with the Bakes & Kropp brand today.” The newly renovated space features classic and more modern-leaning kitchens that show the brand’s evolution and the possibilities of custom design. “The unveiling of our newly reimagined Hamptons showroom truly represents the very best of Bakes & K ropp,” says Bob Bakes, co-founder and head of design. “We’re excited to welcome the community into our space once again.” bakesandkropp.com
ARCLINEA
Italian kitchen brand Arclinea’s renovated showroom stretches over an entire block facing Madison Square Park. Art director and brand designer Antonio Citterio composed the space with a series of arches so that each of the eight sleek and modern kitchens can be experienced on its own. But the real genius, according to Daniel Yarom, president of Arclinea New York, is that the expansive space allows clients to see the breadth of available materials and finishes. He notes that clients don’t need to visualize cabinets based on a small sample; instead, they can see finishes from stainless steel to teak to black walnut in full-size spaces. “Arclinea has invested a tremendous amount into product development,” Yarom says. “The new showroom presents the very best of kitchen design—the benchmark for contemporary luxury.” arclinea-ny.com
BAS STONE
Although the 650 variations of natural stone at the new BAS Stone showroom aren’t limited to use as kitchen counters and backsplashes—imagine bathrooms and fireplace surrounds—the spiffy stoneyard is a must-stop for renovation inspiration. The Long Island City location is down the street from the original warehouse but is larger and includes a lounge that showcases artful uses of the material. “We wanted to capture the drama and beauty found in nature,” says BAS Stone’s creative director Katibelle Sharkey. “We prioritized designing a space that highlights unique stones that clients have never seen before.” To that end, t he stoneyard has dramatic slabs full of color and veining, as well as quieter, classic white marbles with beautiful composition. Sharkey notes that the curated collection is intended to inspire and make life easier for designers looking for that perfect stone. basstonenyc.com
CHECK IN THE MAIDSTONE
WRITTEN BY GRACE BEULEY HUNT
If a cozy winter getaway is calling, consider dropping anchor at The Maidstone Hotel, open year-round and freshly revamped from top to bottom by LDV Hospitality. The iconic East Hampton property boasts a buzzworthy Italian-inspired food and beverage program (think: inventive raw bar delicacies and luscious homemade pastas) helmed by chef Jorge Espinoza of Scarpetta acclaim. Furthering the appeal, a cosmetic refresh courtesy of designer Poonam Khanna brings a coastal, contemporary touch to the interiors, with whimsical lighting, breezy textiles and choice antique accents. Located in the heart of the village, there is plenty to do and see by foot or bicycle, the latter provided gratis by the hotel. But a fireside feast followed by a fabulous sleep on Frette linens makes a great case for staying in. themaidstone.com
LAUNCH
MICHAEL ROBBINS’ TERRAPIN COLLECTION
Michael Robbins went to art school for photography but post-college found himself drawn to carpentry, building homes and furnishings for clients upon graduating. “I discovered that I like the smaller scale of furniture,” he says. “It’s a chance to play with shapes and proportions.” Now based in Germantown, New York, Robbins launched Terrapin, a series of leather-andwood coffee and end tables inspired by a childhood artifact. “I found an old baseball bat of mine that had an amazing patina,” he says. “It influenced the shape of the legs, which I placed at sharp angles to give them a retro vibe.” He also referenced baseball by attaching leather to the sides of the tables with a traditional baseball stitch. The mix of materials is functional and classically beautiful, but the pieces still have a playful look. mchlrbbns.com
TALKING SHOP
THE BARNS
Giving new life to a past venture, antiques dealer Ali Mahon has opened The Barns on the property of her home in Riverside, Connecticut. Here, Mahon tells us all about this one-of-a-kind, expertly curated project. thebarnsbyalimahon.com
How did you get started? I collected and sold early American painted furniture and folk art, but I also worked as a designer and quickly realized that it’s all about the mix. You can’t have a home full of the same thing. I started adding French and Swedish pieces and, 20 years later, I’ve acquired a lot of beautiful furniture, art, jewelry and textiles.
What do you collect? I love Nantucket Lightship baskets, and when I find a great one, I’m thrilled. I also love chairs— anything from a simple Windsor to a slipper chair covered in the fanciest fabric. You can almost never have too many.
What are you on the hunt for? I’m always on the lookout for midcentury oil paintings, because those pieces mix so well with many styles. I also love a wish list and searching for a specific piece for a client. It gives me focus!
What’s next? I’m trying to reach people who can’t easily get to Riverside. I’ve got The Barns e-commerce up and running, and I’m attending sale events in New York, like the recent Ticking Tent in Williamsburg, to be closer to people in the city.
photo g ra phy: Robert Benson landsca pe: Wa gner Hod gson Landsca pe Architectur e
DOUBT
FACETS COLLECTION by Mat Sanders
30" LED Bath Vanity Sconces
RADAR
With holidays on the horizon, leading talents share thoughtfully designed spaces that are sure to inspire a season of merriment and joy.
Merry Making
AT HOME IN LOCUST VALLEY, NEW YORK, ALFREDO PAREDES’ LOVE AFFAIR WITH CHRISTMAS COMES FULL CIRCLE.
WRITTEN BY GRACE BEULEY HUNT
photo:
björn wallander.
Honoring the timeless character of his English manorstyle abode’s front entry, designer Alfredo Paredes styled the scene with faux evergreens dressed up with gold and ruby ribbons from Mood Fabrics. The antlers above the door were purchased from Randall Tysinger Antiques.
Paint that painting experts trust.
Wall: Indi Go-Go CSP-565, Regal® Select, Eggshell
Trim: Indi Go-Go CSP-565, Regal® Select, Satin
“With every house I have ever looked at or lived in, my first question has always been, ‘Where will the Christmas tree go?’ ” says designer Alfredo Paredes, who professes to mentally clocking where an outlet would have to be hardwired in the floor for every would-be residence in question. Paredes’ passion for all things holiday took root early in life. As a child growing up in Coconut Grove, Florida, the season began in early October, when he would promptly unbox decor (“I would drive my mother crazy,” he admits), assume the role of Santa’s elf, and fantasize about cold, snowy Northeast winters.
It’s not exactly surprising then that crafting Christmas magic came to be a cornerstone of Paredes’ prolific career.
Prior to launching his eponymous interior design studio in 2019, Paredes dreamt up and delivered dozens of inspired holiday themes, from Dr. Zhivago to Balmoral tartan to teddy bears, in exacting detail during his 33-year tenure at Ralph Lauren.
But at the enchanting Locust Valley, New York, residence that he shares with husband Brad, daughter Carolina and son Sebastian, the Christmas season calls for decidedly less production. “The house sits in a woodland setting and looks like an English manor or a hunting lodge,” says Paredes, describing the 1929 Long Island charmer. “It’s tailor-made for the holidays, so you don’t have to throw too much at it. I wanted to keep things low-key.”
The dining room is fit for a crowd with its Richomme table set with vintage candelabras. Fine & Dandy Co.’s Aegean mural juxtaposes an enormous Noguchi lantern. Dressed in his version of a Christmas sweater, Paredes (below) poses at his living room’s distinct fenestration.
Take the classic swags of evergreens that drape mantels and stair banisters, or the bountiful winter berry bouquets placed just so, or the miniature bellbedecked wreaths that hang at every door. They are all, Paredes shares without a shred of remorse, faux. “Who wants to vacuum and have fire hazards everywhere?” he posits pragmatically, crediting Afloral and Terrain as favorite resources for convincing artificial flora. Christmas trees, however, are the real deal and entail a solo pilgrimage to a favorite tree farm in Southold, New York, to chop down the most perfectly imperfect specimens.
When pressed for his holiday hosting mainstays, Paredes espouses white flannel
sheets for every bed (a “cozy but not crazy,” touch, he notes), a jazzy 1930s playlist on rotation, scented faux bois candles and always, he stresses, playful decorative accents to temper the architectural seriousness of the home—and tap into everyone’s inner Christmas child. Take, for instance, the chocolate Santa figurines that he tucked into napkins at last year’s dinner. Paredes’ approach to gift wrapping, which involves ordering rolls of sundry wallpapers and ribbons from Etsy for a bohemian mixand-match vibe, is another signature stroke that lends a certain je ne sais quoi
But the traditions that bring Paredes the most joy are those being built, brick by brick, by his young family: an ever-expanding stash of hand-selected
sentimental ornaments; a beautiful menorah scored at a Palm Beach antique shop to honor Brad’s religious roots; sheepskins artfully arranged into snowscapes beneath the tree and upon windowsills, where Paredes’ heirloom collections of ceramic figurines are set up for the children to delight in.
For the little boy who grew up loving Christmas, life in Locust Valley is proving to be a dream come true. Last year, 18 family members were hosted for the holidays a ‘la Alfredo. And while it “didn’t snow on the day of, it did a few weeks later, and it was just incredible,” he recalls. “It is a very, very romantic house for capturing that feeling.” alfredoparedesstudio.com
photos: björn wallander.
A stone-top console from Obsolete offers a beautiful decorating opportunity at the second-story landing, joined by a Jamb pendant and drapes of Kravet fabric. Synthetic garlands make a convincing case for faux on the stairwell banister and at the living room fireplace.
Hidden Gem
A CELEBRATED SOUTHERN DESIGNER’S EYE FOR AMBIENCE COMBINES ANTIQUES WITH INGENUITY.
WRITTEN BY KATE ABNEY
When a project has Tammy Connor at the helm, it’s clear from the very beginning that the designer’s trademark ability to introduce treasured antiques in livable, modern ways will transform and invigorate. Case in point: this historic Beaux Arts estate on Buckhead’s Tuxedo Road—a masterpiece completed by preeminent Georgia architect Philip Trammell Shutze in the early 20th century— that Connor’s Atlanta clients asked her to restore and revitalize.
The wife envisioned living among family heirlooms in a less fussy way than she had during childhood, and a pivotal sourcing trip to her ancestral homes in Europe endowed the Charleston- and Birmingham-based designer with a trove of meaningful heirlooms she could conceive anew. In the library, a Sarouk rug and 18th-century chinoiserie screen became focal points for the space, driving its palette, style and mood. Connor collaborated with architect Stan Dixon to seamlessly integrate the tall screen into Shutze’s exquisite casework, aided by new bespoke bookshelves enrobed in peacock blue.
To
an
To underscore the room’s welcoming purpose—the couple use it both for entertaining and as a serene retreat— Connor carved out a surprise pocket bar tucked within the intricate millwork. The clandestine cabinetry conceals walls lined with lush persimmon linen velvet, emphasizing the designer’s penchant for fabulous fabrics and bestowing a touch of luxury that whispers demurely. “This textile felt warmer and cozier to me than lacquer, and there’s just something about a sound-absorbing upholstered wall that I love for a quiet space,” the designer explains. Even when incorporating such sumptuous elements, “We choose not to take things too seriously, applying details in a way where it’s a little bit of a surprise,” Connor notes. “There needs to be some humor in a design, a little whimsy.” tammyconnorid.com
cultivate
immersive experience, designer Tammy Connor approaches historical projects with equal parts reverence and reinvention: Rooms incorporating antiques are intimate and inviting rather than precious or off-limits.
Rustic Warmth
FOR ONE WYOMING DESIGN FIRM, THE MAGIC OF ENTERTAINING STEMS FROM THE AUTHENTICITY OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT.
WRITTEN BY SARAH SHELTON
Every region of the country has its own brand of hospitality. Take the Mountain West, where the rugged landscape informs both the local design vernacular and the entertaining style. For Rush Jenkins, designer and founder of Jackson Holebased WRJ Design, the two are undeniably linked. “When you travel to an incredible restaurant, the question to ask—beyond the food—is, ‘How does this space make me feel?’ ” he notes. “What emotions
connect you to the architecture, and what about the space is welcoming, cozy and romantic?” Together with Klaus Baer, his partner in life and in business, Jenkins has found the answer to crafting entertaining spaces with an undeniable lure. One of their many secrets to success is living the Rockies lifestyle themselves. Consummate hosts at home—Jenkins oversees the vibe, Baer handles the food— the duo lets a refined yet welcoming rustic
In the former dining room of WRJ Design founders Rush Jenkins and Klaus Baer located in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a Jonathan Browning Studios chandelier hangs over a Molteni&C table. Loro Piana draperies frame the surrounding windows.
Kashima. Michel Ducaroy Made in France
aesthetic take center stage. Their former dining room, the quintessential postcard of mountain living, featured the region’s triedand-true materials like reclaimed woods and stone, shearlings, and wools. For their tables, no fussy tablecloth is necessary, but elegant taper candles, earthenware ceramics and local ora are a must.
This authentically warm ethos is not limited to their lives at home. This year, Stags Landing—WRJ Design’s combination headquarters, gallery, event space and private residence—was unveiled.
A living, breathing manifestation of their vision and craft, Stags Landing draws inspiration from the traditional manor homes of the Cotswolds (Jenkins fell in love with the architectural vernacular while working for Sotheby’s in London), and is where the duo hosts clients one-onone and entertains large groups. The goal was clear: “It’s all about welcoming people into a home environment,” Jenkins says. Visitors are greeted in the great room, where two large stone replaces create a natural gathering place to relax with
ALPINE CHIC
a drink in hand. Steel-framed windows look out into the courtyard’s English garden—a dreamy backdrop for intimate client lunches.
“I think our niche is creating beauty and luxury using materials that are comfortable,” Jenkins re ects. Every corner, every nish is an opportunity to impart a feeling that will leave guests yearning to return, whether at home or work. “The mohair, the cashmere, the reclaimed wood—it is all an opportunity to romance design.” wrjdesign.com
CHANNEL THE ELEGANCE OF MOUNTAIN LIVING WITH COZY PIECES IN TIMELESS MATERIALS.
The great room at WRJ Design’s new headquarters, Stags Landing, situated at the base of Snow King Mountain in Jackson Hole, boasts wire-brushed hardwood floors, reclaimed wood ceiling beams and a large stone fireplace. The sofa is Poltrona Frau, and the desk is André Arbus for Baker.
Sourcing the highest quality marble, quartzite, quartz, granite and soapstone for a meticulously curated collection to ensure your search for surfaces ends with Architectural Surfaces. Visit one of our luxury showrooms today.
Featuring Alexandrita Quartzite
Natural Stone | PentalQuartz™
Guest Book
MATTHEW PATRICK SMYTH SHARES HIS TRIED-ANDTRUE APPROACH FOR CREATING A CONGENIAL VISITOR EXPERIENCE.
WRITTEN BY SARAH SHELTON
When it comes to designing the perfect guest-ready country home, orchestrating the effortless balance between lively communal spaces and private retreats is essential. And no one understands this equation better than designer Matthew Patrick Smyth, a New York City dweller and Connecticut country mouse in his own right, who was entrusted to reimagine a Federalist farmhouse in Litchfield County, Connecticut, for a young family and their healthy roster of weekend visitors.
According to Smyth, the ultimate litmus test for any getaway home is an inviting dining area. “If I was hired to do only one space, it would be the dining
room,” Smyth admits. “It’s where you have a captive audience with guests sitting around the table for a couple of hours sharing a meal, which is the most intimate way to entertain.” Situated off the entry foyer near the library, his clients’ space offers up a warm first impression and serves as the backdrop for routine meals and special holiday gatherings alike. There, guests not only break bread and partake in joyful conversation but are also visually delighted by the room’s tableau of handmade glazed wallpaper framed by floral drapery and punctuated with contemporary artwork by local artist Lizzie Gill. The antiques peppered
The formal dining room plays host to gatherings yearround at this young family’s Connecticut weekend escape designed by Matthew Patrick Smyth. The Surfaces by David Bonk wallcovering is joined by Schumacher drapery and floral artwork by Connecticut artist Lizzie Gill.
photo: simon upton.
throughout the dining room—above the table is an original light fixture dating back to at least 1870—are equally appreciated by the young couple, who have a penchant for old things with provenance and aren’t afraid of anything too precious.
In this abode, the convivial common spaces are the yin to the private guest quarters’ yang. Upstairs, a cozy attic room is a storybook reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the first floor. Located in the oldest part of the home, the room’s original beams highlight the tall ceilings, but it’s the built-in bed nook, another original detail, that steals the show. It is both a perfectly cocooned suite for visitors with young children (adults on the custom horsehair bed, kids in the alcove)
and a quiet place where the homeowners can relax and curl up with a book when without houseguests. It is a space as physically comfortable as it is mentally— exactly what any host hopes to provide.
“An old house is like the game of telephone,” Smyth jokes. “You start with a communicated idea, and by the time you get to the end, you’re totally off message. The design is about returning to square one by peeling back the layers.” Though honoring its roots, the homeowners are undoubtedly writing a new chapter for this storied property, one that has seen generations of friends and family pass through, all looking for the same comfort of a New England country home. matthewsmyth.com
“There’s lots of activity going on here during the holidays,” says Smyth (above). The attic bedroom (top) is a guest favorite. Farrow & Ball’s Old White coats the bed nook and trim, and the walls are Benjamin Moore’s Dove Wing.
Shown:Dazzle
YOUR PROJECT IS OUR PRIORITY
Our showrooms are designed to inspire, with bath, kitchen and lighting choices from top brands curated in beautiful, hands-on displays. From product selection to delivery coordination, an industry expert will be there to support your project every step of the way.
NOTABLES
Original BTC
British lighting brand Original BTC introduces the spectacular new Christie Wall Light. It features a handmade corrugated bone china shade—inspired by rolling ocean waves—paired with antique brass details. Priced at $1,699.
originalbtc.com
ddc
In celebration of Gallotti&Radice’s 10th anniversary, one of their most iconic lighting pieces got a colorful revamp. Made from mouth-blown glass spheres, this pop of color will elevate any space. Available at ddc. ddcnyc.com
JoAnne Artman Gallery
Explore the vibrant art of John “CRASH” Matos. Known for his brilliant spray paint skills that blend pop art with limitless energy, Matos’ distinct style features striking colors, bold designs and graffiti influences that truly mesmerize. joanneartmangallery.com
Charles Hilton Architects
Charles Hilton Architects is a design firm specializing in the finest quality custom residential architecture that has earned a reputation for producing traditionally inspired residences, landscape features and architectural interiors that are beautiful, practical and fit harmoniously in their environments.
hiltonarchitects.com
Arclinea
Arclinea unveils the new Kitchen Collection, designed by internationally renowned architect Antonio Citterio. Visit the new fully renovated showroom in Manhattan to view eight full kitchen models on display.
arclinea-ny.com
Dana Pollock, Founder of Dana’s Bakery, selected Lilac marble slabs for her home kitchen
SHADOW CONSOLE WITH ARC BENCH
ANEES PARMA SETTEE
TED BOERNER REVERIE WITH DIGITAL PHOTO BACKED GLASS
HILLIARD SOPHIA CHANDELIER
M CEWEN B RING SUSPENSION
DESIGN FINDS: ENTERTAINING AT HOME
Whether one is a consummate entertainer who loves hosting large gatherings or a person who enjoys welcoming family and friends for relaxed holiday meals and intimate celebrations, having a home that is designed to meet those unique wants and needs—in high style—is key. That is where the A&D Building comes in. From design-minded homeowners to seasoned industry professionals, a visit or two to the A&D Building will provide the ideal furniture, tabletop, rugs, flooring, cabinetry, appliances, lighting, hardware, textiles and more for exceptional living and memorable entertaining, both indoors and out. Renowned design pros and Partners at Studio AK, Anna Baraness and Kristin Tarsi know the importance and inspiration that a trip to the A&D Building can bring to their design projects, which are celebrated for their seamless mix of clean lines and modern furnishings with vintage and antique pieces. “At Studio AK, we create beautiful, practical, timeless interiors that perfectly reflect the people who live, work, play and entertain in them,” Tarsi says. “We pride ourselves on building strong partnerships with our clients as we guide them through the design process in a way that is fully transparent and fun.”
WHERE LUXURY DESIGN DEFIES EXPECTATIONS
150 East 58th Street, New York, NY adbuilding.com | adbuilding Open To The Public
With more than 25 years of respective design experience working on premium, large-scale interiors projects at the top level, Baraness and Tarsi established Studio AK in New York City in 2020. Ranging from ground-up construction to full-renovations and furnishing projects, the design duo has focused their considerable expertise primarily on high-end residential interior design. “We specialize in FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) specification and design with acute attention to detail and a client-centric approach,” Baraness shares. “This creates truly customized homes for our discerning clientele.” When asked to conceive a dream design scheme for a homeowner who relishes the role of host and welcoming guests, Baraness and Tarsi tapped into the very best that the A&D Building has to offer. The result? “We imagined a beautiful, functional and comfortable environment that nods to the past, while looking toward the future, where both large and small groups of people would gather to celebrate,” Baraness says. Tarsi adds, “Our vision is that all the various components would work easily together, creating an elegant and inviting environment where hosting would be every bit as enjoyable as being a guest.”
The A&D Building is the ultimate destination for discovering the finest and most imaginative pieces and products for residential and commercial projects. A true microcosm of the world’s best brands, makers and artisans, a visit to the A&D Building is like going on a global shopping spree under one roof.
Designer Picks
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
• TANIA BULHÕES
A leader in luxury tableware, Tania Bulhões’ partnership with Royal Limoges has resulted in creations of unmatched quality and beauty.
• SIEMATIC
Easy to operate and lovely to behold, these fully integrated doors pocket all the way back, revealing the craftsmanship of the surrounding millwork.
• GAGGENAU
This panel-ready wine climate cabinet integrates beautifully with surrounding millwork, while the modern detailing and oak drawers inside are an aesthetic dream.
• SMEG
Available in so many colors—and collaborations—this mini fridge is as much a design element as it is a functional piece.
• DACOR
This 48-inch refrigerator features an in-door filtered water pitcher that automatically refills and makes big whiskey ball ice cubes that are perfect when mixing friends and cocktails.
OPPOSITE :
• POLIFORM
World-class design means that this open shelving system with integrated lighting can either be a shining star or retreat quietly into the surrounding cabinetry.
FROM VISION TO VIEW
Thoughtfully crafted moving glass walls and windows redefine the boundaries of indoor-outdoor living, offering you the freedom to design, build, and live in spaces that inspire. Scan the QR code to learn more.
Join these industry tastemakers at ATLANTA MARKET to dive deeper into the trends for 2025 and beyond. Plus, you’ll discover more home sourcing options than ever before, with the addition of 50 casual/outdoor furniture showrooms, more top-notch lines and new resources across the market.
THE PREMIER GIFT, DÉCOR & LIFESTYLE MARKET
HUMBLE BRAG HEIRLOOMS
“Where timeless craftsmanship meets modern elegance, we’re seeing a new design philosophy emerge. It finds a delicate balance between subtle sophistication and quiet confidence, and relies on made-to-last items. The result is a collection of heirlooms that embody both enduring beauty and understated pride, perfect for passing down through generations.”
“In today’s world, interiors must go beyond mere aesthetics; they must be impactful and engage all the sense. The days of filling a space with ‘stuff’ are over. Instead, there is a celebration of items that are meaningful, intentional and deeply personal. The environment is about a quality of experience, rather than a quantity.”
Register online at AtlantaMarket.com
The Drawing Room Atlanta, Georgia | 571.225.1353 thedrawingroomatl.com | thedrawingroomatl
Moroccan Peony Dream
Edition Porcelain Flower Aroma Diffuser by Zodax
SETH VAN DEN BERGH Creative Director
Crystal Edition Porcelain Flower Aroma
Everglades Chandelier by Arteriors
Jesse Accent Table by Arteriors
Lamp Indochina Classic Umbrella by Oi Soi Oi
Silla Trenzada Saddle by Jan Barboglio
Souris Assise Blanc Uni by Les Céramiques de Lussan
COLORFUL MINIMALISM
“People want more color! It seems that even the minimalists are over beige. Incorporating a pop (or two or three) of color along with the clean lines and open spaces we associate with traditional minimalism adds personality, depth and interest to even the most minimalist of spaces. Color is back in a big way, across aesthetics.”
“Birds are everywhere right now! The obvious reason is that designers love to blend indoor and outdoor living, but the more interesting observation is that as we work to create dynamic, lived-in spaces, I find bird motifs given an almost-instant vintage feel to the design. I also love how certain birds have an elevated coastal subtlety to them—perfect for my Lowcountry clients.”
Showrooms: Tuesday, January 14 – Monday, January 20, 2025
Temporaries: Wednesday, January 15 – Sunday, January 19, 2025
MEGAN MOLTEN
Principal
Megan Molten
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina | 843.936.2137 meganmolten.com | meganmolten
Clamshell Chandelier by Jamie Young Co.
Thanda Nests Solaris Plum Pillow by Ngala Trading
lamshell Jamie Co.
Joelle Two Birds Mirror by Made Goods
Paradiso Silver & Gold Accent Table by Currey & Company
Effie Cabinet by Worlds Away
Bennett Armchair in Navy Blue by Villa & House
Aquaviva Table Lamp by Currey & Company
DISCOVERIES
Artistic Tile
Inspired by Lori Weitzner’s renowned textile design, Lola translates the woven layers and mix of materials signature to the designer’s luxurious fabrics into tile. A modern reimagining of an arabesque, Lola creates a palimpsest of pattern play. It is a tailored-to pattern, crafted entirely in-house. Starting at $220 per square foot. artistictile.com
Legno Bastone Wide Plank Flooring
Make a statement in style, with world-class flooring right beneath your steps. Legno Bastone Wide Plank Flooring products are timeless, resilient and long-lasting. Featured here is Teresa from the LaFamiglia collection. legnobastone.com
Lancaster
Relaxed sophistication describes Lancaster’s Alyce sofa in lush performance velvet. Classic familiarity meets a current aesthetic in this domestically handcrafted beauty. Made to order in your choice of materials, this profile is also available as a sectional or occasional chair. lancasterccu.com
MARKET
Dive into the Luxe Gift Guide, full of gorgeous handcrafted ceramics, divine design books and pretty hostess presents to please everyone on your list.
Artful Offerings
Nadia Stieglitz
WRITTEN BY FOLASADE OLOGUNDUDU
Look no further than the art of ceramics if you’re on the hunt for extraordinary pieces to make this season of gifting memorable. “Ceramics is a medium capable of exploring complex conceptual ideas,” Charleston-based artist Nadia Stieglitz explains. “These items are not simply decorative objects; they carry messages that can elevate an entire space.” Her own layered production process combines multiple hand-building techniques, beginning with fashioning her stoneware and earthenware forms around a bulbous object, and then contouring with slab molds and coils. A layer of watered-down clay is added in spontaneous patterns, and once the pieces are dry, Stieglitz embellishes them using the sgraffito, or scratched, method. These marks evoke a worldly beauty, referencing botanical or marine motifs and the resulting biomorphic silhouettes are utterly ethereal. nadiastieglitz.com; @nadiastieglitzstudio
Lindsey Wohlgemuth
WRITTEN BY LAURA FENTON
If you happen to be following Era Ceramics on social media for a behind-the-scenes dive into artist Lindsey Wohlgemuth’s creative process, you may just get an early clue as to when the next collection is being released. Act on it quickly—Era Ceramics often sell out the moment a new drop is announced, due, no doubt, to both this intimate inside look and the fact that craft and care are visible in every piece. The homegrown family business—Wohlgemuth and her husband are partners—began with a kiln on a porch and a deep love for working with clay, and now creates bespoke earthen ceramics that adorn some of the top tables in Austin. “Different clay bodies have unique textures and colors,” Wohlgemuth notes. “It takes practice to get to know all the materials and make refinements.” The artist’s experimentation with pit firing, in which smoke and ash finish the clay, gives the wood-fired bowls, plates and vases an amazing organic quality. eraceramics.com; @eraceramics
DESIGNER LIGHTING SHOP NOW
JULIE NEILL LORELEI X-LARGE CHANDELIER IN GILD VISUALCOMFORT.COM
Cody Hoyt
WRITTEN BY SUSANNAH
GRUDER
The geometric and floral inlay ceramic creations of Brooklyn artist Cody Hoyt all share the mark of his unique style and aesthetic, with much of their design, in a way, left up to chance. “There’s an incidental quality to them that you can’t force by hand,” Hoyt says. Almost all his works begin as a slab of clay which Hoyt inlays (or rather, “mashes”) with gestural forms. In other cases, he extrudes shapes and assembles them together before slicing cross sections with wire. The resulting thin tiles become the building blocks for a vessel or mosaic. As Hoyt continues to hone his craft, his pieces are growing in creativity, with varying inspirations like Japanese Nerikomi pottery or the hypnotic optical art of Josef Albers, but he is careful not to coerce anything to fit his will. As Hoyt puts it: “I’m trying to figure out ways to coexist within the desires and inclinations of the material.” codyhoyt.com; @codyhoyt
Liadain Warwick Smith
WRITTEN BY SHANNON SHARPE
Ceramist Liadain Warwick Smith takes a thoughtful and considered approach to her delicate heirloom objects, which are simultaneously rustic and sophisticated. “I try to make each piece completely unique and individual while repeating certain details,” the artist shares. She begins by slipping, scoring, pinching and building up her trademark red clay forms before beginning the long process of drying, firing and glazing each item. Known for her white pieces in which deep, red-brown clay tones peek through perfectly imperfect glazes, she’s recently begun experimenting with black finishes that, while different, still feel elegant and regal. Warwick Smith sees her wares as utilitarian: vases to be filled with flowers from the garden and plates on which to enjoy meals surrounded by loved ones—simple experiences elevated by the beauty of each work. liadainwarwicksmith.com ; @liadainws
photos: tria giovan. copy: excerpted from “slow burn,” luxe hamptons jul/aug 2024
Pretty Presents
TODAY’S TOP DESIGNERS WEIGH IN ON THEIR GO-TO PIECES PERFECT FOR JUST ABOUT EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST.
“ This bowl is my favorite gift for clients. It embodies the aesthetic and the optimism I try to infuse into all my projects.”
–RAYMAN BOOZER, apartment48.com
“We have these bottle openers made by an eccentric artist out of Portland, Oregon, who uses a lost-wax technique to cast them out of brass. It’s unexpected and special.”
Soleil d’Hermès Salad
Soleil d’Hermès Salad Bowl, hermes.com
“These handcrafted champagne coupe glasses by Fferrone are a stunning addition to any barware collection and perfect for celebrating special occasions. An ideal gift for those who love to entertain with a touch of class.”
–NINA MAGON, ninamagon.com
Margot Champagne Coupes, erronedesign.com
–BRADLEY ODOM, bradleyodom.com Gira e Bottle Opener, dixonrye.com
“Having an artisan create a gift always makes it special, and Christopher crafts the most unique objects. It’s a gift that can be presented as is or with fresh owers.”
“Soft, luxurious, and brimming with character, this throw is a guaranteed showstopper and makes an impeccable gift for him, her or both.”
–SUZANNE KASLER, suzannekasler.com Faux Bois Cache Pot, christopherspitzmiller.com
“My
–DENISE MORRISON, morrisoninteriors.com
Copper Salt & Pepper Mills, roaniris.co
favorite holiday gifting tradition is giving things we’ve created ourselves. These solid brass keepsakes are hand-cast from living sprigs of California mistletoe.”
tradition is mistletoe.”
MEIER
–AMY
Cast Brass Mistletoe, amymeier.com
“Handcrafted in Greece, these salt
“Handcrafted in Greece, these salt and pepper mills make a truly special hostess gift for enhancing someone’s kitchen and are the perfect mix of utility and elegance.”
“I love everyday functional items that are so beautiful they can stand alone as decor. This decanter is lovely lled or standing empty and set out for display.”
–GINGER CURTIS, urbanologydesigns.com
Pebbled Glass Decanter, thecollectivehome.com
“Each of these candles has a rich, long-lasting scent that transforms the ambience of any room. Their unique fragrances and elegant design make them a standout choice for holiday gifting.”
–CLAUDIA AFSHAR, claudiaafshar.com
Three Sisters Candle Set, flamingoestate.com
Three Sisters Candle
“I keep an eye out for unique nds that parlay into that perfect token of appreciation for a host or hostess. Recently, our studio gifted this Mous vase to clients as Christmas presents.”
“I keep an eye out for unique nds token of for a . our studio this Mous vase to clients as Christmas
From left to right by row: Veere Grenney: Seeking Beauty by Veere Grenney / vendomepress.com Cullman & Kravis: Interiors by Elissa Cullman, Lee Cavanaugh, Sarah Ramsey and Alyssa Urban with Judith Nasatir / rizzoliusa.com The Art of Gracie: Handpainted Wallpapers, Timeless Rooms by Jennifer Gracie, Mike Gracie, Zach Shea and Brian Gracie with Judith Nasatir / rizzoliusa.com The Savage Style by Jonathan Savage / gibbs-smith.com Forever Beautiful: All-American Style All Year Long by Mark D. Sikes / rizzoliusa.com The Perfect Room: Timeless Designs for Intentional Living by Marie Flanigan with Susan Sully / rizzoliusa.com Interiors Styled by Mieke ten Have by Mieke ten Have / vendomepress.com The Young Man and the Tree: Fernando Wong Landscape Design by Tim Johnson / vendomepress.com Outside In: Interiors Born From Nature by Brian Paquette / gibbs-smith.com
Michelle Gerson, Founder of Michelle Gerson Interiors, selected Artistic Tile’s Rosa Velluto Onyx for her office desk.
It’s All in How You Frame It.
Bring the natural textures of the outdoors into the interior with Feeney®’s DesignRail® resin infill options with organic embedded materials.
Welcome to the World of Feeney, where our designer custom options make it easy for you to create your own masterpiece, all while keeping it perfectly within frame.
Reach out to a Feeney Design Specialist to learn more: design@feeneyinc.com
IMPECCABLE, INSPIRING, INNOVATIVE AND INDIVIDUAL, THESE ARE THE CONCEPTS THAT MAKE TODAY’S KITCHENS THE NEXUS OF FAMILY LIFE.
Achieving this delicate balance requires a design expert with a collaborative approach to creating unique kitchen environments. These comprehensive spaces should not only inspire the family chef, but provide the perfect place for doing homework, playing games, relaxing with a glass of wine or healthy snack and entertaining guests. That is why we at AjMadison are proud to present the Kitchen Design Collective 2024.
Showcasing the remarkable work of some of our most celebrated and accomplished design partners, the Kitchen Design Collective 2024 combines their unique creative genius and affinity for function with our exceptional inventory of world-class brands, unmatched expertise, extensive product knowledge and white-glove service. Turn the page to see what Gregory Hitchcock Design and AjMadison were able to accomplish in New York.
Gaggenau’s tri-zone wine cooler keeps each vintage at the optimum temperature.
Powerful, yet discreet, this
substance and style.
Steam and smart functions make this Gaggenau steam oven a kitchen “must-have.”
Elegance Meets Innovation
CELEBRATED FOR ONE-OF-A-KIND DESIGNS, GREGORY HITCHCOCK CREATED A STANDOUT KITCHEN BRIMMING WITH STYLE, FUNCTION AND PERSONALITY.
Expertise, talent and an affinity for function are the ideal ingredients for great kitchens. With over 20 years of experience in the New York luxury market, Gregory Hitchcock has successfully completed more than 200 projects. And, at the heart of his impressive resume is exceptional kitchen design. “My home design experience began in the kitchen,” Hitchcock says. “Although I branched out into every other room in the house, kitchen design has remained my specialty.”
MATERIAL WITNESS
With a signature style best described as “Modern Eclectic,” Hitchcock and his team at Gregory Hitchcock Design look at each project as an amalgam of raw materials that can be used to sculpt a unique space. “For the kitchen of their new home in Pawling, New York, my clients wanted a warm, modern, eclectic feel,” he shares. “Blending texture, color and shape with luxurious livability allowed me to create a beautifully functional space for the family to gather and enjoy.”
SYNERGY + STYLE
When undertaking this project, one of Hitchcock’s first calls was to Mordy Mueller, his AjMadison representative. “Mordy’s extensive product knowledge led us to choose appliances from Gaggenau, Dacor, Bosch, Sub-Zero and Wolf,” Hitchcock notes. “Considering the sleek, Italianmade cabinetry we went with, these brands made a lot of sense. Not only do they speak to the kitchen’s sophisticated design language, but they perfectly fulfill the homeowners’ technical needs.”
Gaggenau range hood has
Wolf’s classic red knobs add a pop of rich color to the custom cabinetry.
AN ESSENTIAL ALLIANCE
The abiding relationship Gregory Hitchcock shares with AjMadison results in world-class kitchens.
How long have you been working with AjMadison?
We’ve been working with AjMadison for at least eight years now, and, together, we’ve furnished countless kitchens with the exact right appliances, all of which have been delivered with expert care and service.
Talk about your unique relationship with your AjMadison representative. With his vast wealth of product knowledge, we’ve leveraged Mordy Mueller’s expertise time and again to solve challenges at the intersection of design and function. And his commitment to excellent service means that we have no reservations when it comes to having our clients interact with him directly.
How are the appliances you chose elevating the homeowners’ lifestyle? The fact that these appliances allow our clients to plan and prepare delicious meals with ease and entertain friends and family in style, without muss or fuss, means that they are experiencing all the benefits these premium appliances have to offer each and every day.
In your expert opinion, what sets AjMadison apart? Not only does AjMadison’s team of appliance experts offer a one-stop shopping solution for us and our clients, but once a purchase has been made their true value shines through. From scheduling deliveries to ensuring each site is ready for installation, their willingness to work with us when things don’t go exactly as planned and the ongoing service they provide to our clients in the years to come puts AjMadison in a league apart.
Style + Substance
THE RIGHT BLEND OF TOP-NOTCH APPLIANCES IS THE KEY TO A KITCHEN THAT ELEVATES AND INSPIRES.
Gaggenau Vario 400 Series 24-Inch Panel-Ready Tri-Zone
Smart Wine Cooler
A tri-zone wine cabinet that offers precise temperature control for different wines, wrapped in a customizable, panel-ready design.
$9,699; SKU: Gaggenau RW466765
Sub-Zero Designer Series 24-Inch UnderCounter Dual-Zone Smart Wine Cooler
Preserve any wine collection with precision using this dual-zone cooler, which offers advanced smart features and a refined, panel-ready exterior for a seamless look.
$3,189; SKU: Sub-Zero DEU2450WADAR
Wolf 36-Inch Cooktop
This 36-inch cooktop combines contemporary design with professional-grade performance, featuring powerful burners and control knobs mounted on the front face of the cabinetry.
$2,849; SKU: Wolf CG365CS
Gaggenau 400 Series 30-Inch Single Combi-Steam Smart Electric Wall Oven From mastering steaming to baking to sous vide and even juice extracting, this 30-inch combi-steam oven delivers precision cooking.
$9,999; SKU: Gaggenau BS484612
Gaggenau 400 Series 30-Inch
Smart Electric Wall Oven
This 30-inch wall oven offers advanced cooking capabilities with smart technology, delivering exceptional dishes every time in a sleek, contemporary design.
$8,999; SKU: Gaggenau BO481613
Collective Praise
What does being a part of the AjMadison Kitchen Design Collective mean to Gregory Hitchcock?
“All in all, being part of the AjMadison Kitchen Design Collective means that we have myriad solutions for every project that comes our way, a trusted partner who is always there to guide and assist us and an expert team that makes sure that the end result is always so much more than the sum of its parts.”
400 Series 30-Inch Panel-Ready Built-In Smart All Refrigerator Column, $9,599; SKU: RC472705; Gaggenau Vario 400 Series 18-Inch Panel-Ready Built-In Smart All Freezer Column, $7,999; SKU: RF411705; Gaggenau 36-Inch Range Hood, $2,599; SKU: AF210791
INTERIOR INSIGHTS
“ We’ve been working with AjMadison for at least eight years now, and, together, we’ve furnished countless kitchens with the exact right appliances.”
“ With his vast wealth of product knowledge, we’ve leveraged Mordy Mueller’s expertise time and again to
Hitchcock, Design Director at Gregory Hitchcock Design
Instagram @nicolecorbett_studio
& Texture
MAVERICK ARTIST NICOLE CORBETT’S HOLIGRAPHIC, HAND-EMBROIDERED LANDSCAPES ARE MESMERIZING.
www.nicolecorbett.studio
Visit her Amagansett studio or set up a virtual viewing. Delivery is complimentary to the NY area.
Photography : Read McKendree / JBSA
Riviere wallcovering in Blue by Brunschwig & Fils. kravet.com
A clients’ love of ceramics inspired their Kansas City, Kansas, powder room designed by Mark D. Sikes, where a collection of Imari plates hangs in the vestibule (opposite) and runs along the bathroom’s lower walls (above); the Iksel wallpaper was custom colored and patterned to mimic them.
The console sink is Waterworks, the mirror is from John Rosselli & Associates and the sconces are Mark D. Sikes for Hudson Valley Lighting.
Small Wonders
DESIGNER MARK D. SIKES SHARES HIS SECRETS TO DECORATING THE ONE ROOM EVERY GUEST IS SURE TO SEE.
WRITTEN AND PRODUCED BY
GRACE BEULEY HUNT AND SARAH SHELTON
With the holidays—and their onslaught of parties and guests—upon us, Luxe decided to dive into what makes for a truly fabulous powder room. Proudly petite and designed to be admired, the space offers a rare opportunity for flash and fantasy. And who better to tap for their playbook than designer Mark D. Sikes? Beloved for his artfully layered schemes and luscious color palettes, Sikes has a reputation for elaborate, elegant takes on what he dubs “the jewel box of the home.” Fresh off the release of his bestselling third monograph, Forever Beautiful (Rizzoli), the designer sat down to share his expert tips for creating a loo that company won’t soon forget. markdsikes.com
What is your philosophy for putting together a distinctive powder room? This is the one place in the house where it’s universally accepted to be unique and innovative. And, because it’s a small space in terms of square footage, it provides a rare opportunity to splurge on something lavish, like a hand-painted wallpaper or beautiful wall upholstery, that might be cost-prohibitive in a larger space. It is a room for full creative expression.
Can you discuss design elements that are often overlooked? If you’re looking at the layout of a powder room, it’s important to have both a place for guests to sit and a place for bags and belongings. In a perfect world, the floor plan would include a little entry vestibule with a bench or stool, and then a small table inside the powder room where guests can rest their bag while they touch up their makeup, etc. I think you always need a table in the powder room for this reason. We try to make our spaces feel comfortable and functional, and these elements seem to work nicely in terms of hosting company.
Montecito Panel Set in Indigo by Mark D. Sikes schumacher.com
Ludaix Wallpaper in Pacific by Henry Holland for Harlequin sandersondesigngroup.com
Claire Wallpaper in Navy thibautdesign.com
Safi Wallpaper in Blue on Blue by Anna Spiro studiofournyc.com
Monica Wallpaper in Bluebird luliewallace.com
Creating a through line for his Kansas City clients, Sikes clad a secondary powder room in another customized Iksel wallpaper.
A Mark D. Sikes for Hudson Valley Lighting sconce injects a contemporary note into the mix and plays off the bone inlay mirror.
Is there a single most important piece for a powder room? Hanging a super special mirror is really important because this is one of the few utilitarian rooms where you have the liberty to do that. In primary or guest bathrooms, storage is a must, and mirrors are often medicine cabinets and more “apothecary” in look and feel. I love to use antique mirrors in the powder—something with a beautiful, unique shape. Then, when it comes to selecting hardware, I like to use something a bit more precious, such as antiqued silver or burnished brass; antique mirrors tend to look better with those finishes.
Talk to us about lighting. Dimmers are important in the powder room (and in every room) for functional purposes, but, generally, I like lighting in this space to be more subtle, romantic and moody. It’s a wonderful room to mix di erent types of fixtures—think modern sconces with an antique table lamp. It’s also an opportunity to play around with beautiful custom fabric lampshades. I particularly like
shades in a powder because they cast such a soft, beautiful light.
silk pleated
Volver Single Sconce in Brass by Kelly Wearstler visualcomfort.com
Hector Pleat Wall Light originalbtc.com
Javelin Bathroom Sconce modernforms.com
Curves No.1 Wall Sconce by Mark D. Sikes hvlgroup.com Luna Wall Light in Brass & White
A whimsical Morris & Co. wallpaper contrasts with Royal Makkum delft tiles from Country Floors in this Sun Valley, Idaho, powder room. Layered lighting, including a Jamb sconce and a table lamp with a marbled paper shade, complements an antique mirror.
How do you create personality when you’re starting with a blank slate? It’s all about the materials and the finishes. Most of the work we do now is completely original and very decorative. For instance, instead of doing a wallpaper, we will have our decorative painter, Joseph Steiert, come in and depict a mural on the walls. Or instead of having traditional painted cabinets, we will have an artisan hand-glaze them so that they aren’t a stark white and instead have a rich patina. We also love to source antique tiles and fabrics that give the appearance of years of fading in the sun.
What are your favorite finishing touches? Beautiful hand towels (my favorites are Julia B. Casa). Something alive, whether that’s a plant or flowers in a chic bud vase. A café curtain, Roman shade or sheers at the window for privacy. A candle with a great scent—my go-to is Orange Blossom by Jo Malone—and a book of matches in a pretty container because it’s the polite thing to do. The best houses are the ones that make people feel comfortable and welcome!
GO GOLD
TAPS BRING A JEWELRY-LIKE FEEL.
Widespread Lavatory Faucet in Unlacquered Polished Brass franzviegener.com
rockymountainhardware.com
In a powder room (top) in Pacific Palisades, California, a wooden commode was stripped and given a Newport Brass faucet. An antique bone inlay mirror is backed by an Iksel wallpaper for a characterful look. The sconce is from Galerie des Lampes. Sikes’ third monograph (above), Forever Beautiful (Rizzoli) was released in September.
Wall Mount Faucet with Arched Escutcheon in Silicon Bronze Light
3 Hole Lavatory Filler in Antique Gold with Gloss Black Chrome samuel-heath.com
No. 16600 Swirl Basin Set in Polished Brass peguerin.com
Griffey Widespread Lavatory Faucet in Antique Brass newportbrass.com
Classic
Clockwise from top left: Jacqueline Faucet
Fredrick Ramond defines livable luxury, contrasting moody glamour with brilliant sophistication. From light to dark, Rene radiates light through multiple layers of beautiful, pressed glass disks and Rubina’s magnificent shade is crafted from individually hung strands of sparkling crystal. The juxtaposition is magnificent. Since 1924, Capitol Lighting has helped homeowners, interior designers and custom home builders set the tone for every space. With unsurpassed service, unparalleled selection and our best price guarantee, you can always trust us to put you in your best light.
Visit any of our convenient showrooms or shop online at 1800lighting.com today.
INFLUENTIAL WOMEN OF DESIGN
WHERE LEADERSHIP, PERSPECTIVE + INGENUITY ABOUND
From inspiring their clients and colleagues with signature aesthetic leanings to guiding their teams in managing deadlines and smooth installations, the women of design are undeniably influential. Of course, their seemingly endless font of talent plays a role too. TURN
Merrell Soule Architects
Penny Drue Baird | Dessins LLC
212.288.3600 | dessinsllc.com | pennydessins
A highly personal design philosophy not only brings beauty and function to a home but adds a unique sense of character that makes any environment truly one-of-a-kind. “Mine is a targeted approach,” says Penny Drue Baird, Principal at Dessins LLC. “Working across the U.S. and Europe, I design for the individual. Purely ‘couture,’ my projects are a strategic combination of a home’s geographical location, its architectural style and details and the client’s lifestyle and vision for how they wish to live.” That way of working has resulted in a stunning portfolio of award-winning designs that speak directly to the wants, needs and dreams of the people who live, work and play in her spaces. “My definition of a successful project is one where the client feels that the best place in the world they can be is in their own home,” Drue Baird shares. “This provides me with a deep sense of satisfaction.”
Influential Insights
• Did you always want to work in design? Growing up in a well-designed home, I have always been attracted to this art form. After receiving my doctorate in psychology, I pivoted back to design. This was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
• Talk about mentors who have shaped and inspired your work. I have two: Barbara D’Arcy and Paige Rense. Nothing short of a genius, Barbara unwittingly invented the designer show house. And Paige created an eclectic forum for every aesthetic from super traditional to uber modern.
• What are the key elements to a successful client/ designer relationship? The “fit” between client and designer cannot be underestimated. It’s like having the right doctor or hair cutter—long-standing and so personal. A firm’s size is also to be considered, as a smaller, more hands-on firm provides each client with an unmatched level of personal attention.
• Share your thoughts on the future of women in design? As natural homemakers, women know and understand how to create a home that functions in a profound way. Although I adore my male colleagues, I unabashedly say, “I know better.”
ECLECTIC IN THE TRUE SENSE OF THE WORD, OUR WORK BLENDS DIFFERENT STYLES, MIXING A DELICIOUS COCKTAIL FOR EACH CLIENT.”
Top With a sculptural lighting fixture as its aesthetic centerpiece, this glamorous Central Park dining room defines sophisticated design. Left Urban life wrapped up in one cosmopolitan space, this living room was created for a young family of art collectors. Right Whether relaxing with a book or hosting large gatherings, this library was designed to provide maximum comfort.
Photography Top by Trevor Tondro; Left by Durston Saylor; Right by Peter Murdock; Headshot by Brittany Ambridge
The best designers can combine client wishes with practical realities and create something special. Tuscany in Virginia? Unexpected maybe, but not impossible. Doreen Chambers, President of her namesake interior design firm since founding it in 2001, recently updated a home in Virginia with touches of Italy. She explains, “The clients also have a house in Italy and wanted to incorporate a touch of Tuscany in their remodel. We achieved it—with a sensational outcome—and it doesn’t look out of place.” Chambers excitedly shares that she is a co-founder of the recently launched home decor accessories line Casa Via Palma. Found at casaviapalma.com, it includes gorgeous dinnerware, trays, candles and more. “The collection is inspired by the diverse cultures and vibrant styles encountered throughout travels across the Mediterranean, Asia and the Caribbean. It’s an eclectic mix of global elegance.”
Role Models
Chambers cites designers she admires, noting, “All of them have built formidable careers with longevity through tenacity.”
• Kelly Wearstler: She has a unique design perspective and a flawless eye for pulling together disparate styles and unexpected materials. It’s a real gift!
• Nina Campbell: She is a truly timeless designer and her environments stand the test of time. Her rooms tend to be somewhat more formal, though always beautiful, inviting and comfortable. Also, she’s still going strong in her late 70s and seems to be having a ball.
• Kit Kemp: I’ve been a fan since I first stayed in one of her Firmdale Hotels in London 20 years ago. Her rooms are always elegant, cozy, inviting and a touch whimsical. She’s a devoted supporter of lesser-known artists and showcases their works through her various hotels in often arresting and inspiring ways.
Top The de Gournay handpainted chinoiserie wallpaper panels are the focus and design inspiration of this Sutton Place living room.
Right The primary bathroom renovation evokes a luxury spa vibe thanks to a soft color palette, Thassos marble and classic brass details throughout. Far right The primary bedroom needed a workspace that wasn’t too obtrusive, so Chambers designed a custom desk to fit perfectly into a bay window.
Photography + Headshot Christopher James Delaney
I AM INSPIRED BY NATURE, FINE ART, FASHION AND TRAVEL— AND THE KEY PILLARS OF MY DESIGNS ARE BEAUTY, FUNCTION AND COMFORT.”
Kathryn Scott Design Studio
For some individuals, the world of interior design is a true calling. Kathryn Scott, President of her namesake design studio, “fell into” the job decades ago and is still in love. She says, “I am so grateful that I found a profession that constantly inspires and rewards me. It is much easier to improve your skills when you love your job. Design is not merely a profession for me, I see it as what I can offer the world.” Her firm works with new construction buildings and home renovations, curating a mix of styles to represent a client’s lifestyle, personal history and preferences. Scott notes that she is “drawn to simplicity, beautiful details and unexpected touches of drama.” She starts each project with an eye on what should be added or removed in a space. While every design is unique, the end goal is always the same. Scott says, “I want to create a peaceful atmosphere where people want to be.”
Ongoing Inspiration
Having begun her career at Vignelli Associates, Scott continues to cite the iconic pair as important influences. She explains, “Looking back, Lella and Massimo Vignelli have been my consistent inspiration through the years. Their austere aesthetic continues to influence my vision today. Their spaces were harmonious and peaceful—which taught me how surroundings impact the way one feels. They also touched all aspects of design, creating for interiors, furniture, graphics, packaging, tableware and jewelry. Their comprehensive view created very elegant results.”
Company Goals
Looking to the future, Scott says, “I want to focus on the types of projects I can enjoy the most— ones that express a higher level of craftsmanship, interesting materials and detailing. I hope to use the best of what I have seen in my lifetime to inspire something I have not yet had the opportunity to do.”
Top Scott updated this country home by minimizing interior architecture and combining sculptural furnishings with rustic accents, also adding a focus on natural light.
Photography Mark Roskams; Headshot by William Abranowicz
Merrell Soule Architects
Architecture is a true artform. That’s an ideal Janara Garcia Soule believes deeply. “More than visual, design is a narrative art that begins with each client’s story,” says the Partner at award-winning Merrell Soule Architects. A lifelong passion to create defines Garcia Soule.
“From composing charcoal drawings to molding clay figurines, creativity has always come naturally to me,” she shares. “It was only during architecture school that I learned to harness my design abilities.” Taught by architectural luminaries Tom Kundig, Alan Maskin and Kirsten Murray, Garcia Soule knew she’d found her calling in residential architecture when she began working for another industry icon, James Merrell, Principal Partner at MSA. “I was two years out of school when I moved to the Hamptons and joined James’ firm. Thanks to my amazing mentors, I’m part of a collaborative team that creates family heirlooms.”
An Influential Project
When asked to share a project that exemplifies her design expertise, Garcia Soule described a very special East End property. “The site for Pond House had steep topography and extensive landscape views, which we took full advantage of in our designs. From the entry, the house is seen as a two-level structure, but from the back, it becomes a three-story home with a basement walk-out. Like most MSA projects, we wove in full-height windows to maximize natural light—throughout the day, one can walk through Pond House’s main spaces and experience the sun’s movement. Clad in a weathered red cedar rainscreen siding, this home sits beautifully on its board-formed concrete foundation, while inside, clean white walls are accented with a stunning mix of white oak paneling, trim and ceiling cladding, which adds the perfect amount of organic warmth and elegance.”
I’M DOING EXACTLY WHAT I’M MEANT TO BE DOING AND I COULDN’T BE HAPPIER.”
Top A Noguchi ceiling lantern and sectional sofa from B&B Italia lend style and comfort, while the expansive wood windows by Dynamic Windows frame the pond views in Pond House’s family room. Far left Custom wood kitchen cabinetry by Merrell Soule Architects and artisan barstools curated by Brad Ford ID make Pond House’s luminous kitchen inviting and inspiring. Center Structural meets sculptural. Pond House’s staircase features open risers, bleached white oak treads, board-formed concrete walls and elegant vases specified by Brad Ford ID. Left Double-height window walls by Dynamic Windows provide Pond House with an abundance of natural light throughout the interior spaces.
Photography Joshua McHugh
The luckiest among us have a job they truly enjoy and deeply appreciate. Melissa Anderson, Founder and sole owner of OAD Interiors, is one such person. She says, “I’m so grateful that I get to wake up every day and do something I love.” Her firm is a full-service interior design studio based out of Brooklyn, NY. Anderson shares, “We create artfully-designed spaces that reflect the surrounding environment and the values of their inhabitants. Thoughtfully providing functional, clean, impactful spaces allows for fine details to be noticed and for bold and unexpected moments to shine.” OAD is also known for their efforts to celebrate local makers and features their craft in every project. Up next? “We are working on multiple townhouse projects where we have the opportunity to reimagine every aspect—both inside and out,” she says. “The opportunity to create an entirely new story is so exciting!”
Giving Thanks
In a special moment, Anderson mentions an important force in her life. “I would like to acknowledge the support and guidance I have received from Lila Howard, a now 100-year-old woman who basically became my adopted grandmother when I arrived in NYC,” she says. “Lila raised an autistic son as a single mother and also started her own creative business before women were a major part of the workforce. She continues to give me business advice and encouragement, telling me not to put any limits on what’s possible. Lila is a true inspiration!”
Company Goals
Contemplating the future, Anderson says she would love to design more community spaces. “I’m interested in taking on projects for museums, hospitals and other types of large community settings. In the end, design meets its full potential when it has a positive impact on our lives in all areas.”
Far left This home boasts an open floor plan with two double-height areas. The space is accentuated by a floor-to-ceiling fireplace and oversized chandelier. Top right The client requested a lilac and lavender palette, and OAD delivered with touches like the wall feature of ribbed lilac marble from Artistic Tile. Bottom right The OAD team aimed to make each area feel special while remaining visually connected within the open layout.
Photography Far left by Ellen McDermott; Top right by Will Ellis; Bottom right by Mike Van Tassell; Headshot by Will Star
MY MISSION IS TO DESIGN UNIQUE SPACES THAT REFLECT THE CLIENT’S VISION ALONG WITH MY SIGNATURE STYLE OF ELEGANT SIMPLICITY.”
Paula McDonald Design Build & Interiors
212.633.0594 | pmddllc.com | paula_nycdb
Few designers can claim that they excel in both creative pursuits and the minutiae of urban planning paperwork. Paula McDonald, Founder of her Design Build & Interiors firm, is rare in that she has both a creative eye and an expertise at navigating city codes and requirements. She explains, “What sets me apart is an exceptional design and build quality that results in transformations that are extraordinary because of my hands-on experience and management of our projects. The longevity of relationships with our crews and trades—plus our project management process—enables us to see the macro and micro levels of details.” Known for renovating spaces in projects with budgets from hundreds of thousands of dollars up to seven figures, McDonald says, “We optimize apartments in New York City while also removing the usual paperwork headaches of renovation—delivering our clients treasured homes.”
Growth Mindset
Continuing to dream big for her firm, McDonald outlines her current goals, “I aspire to scale the scope of my firm to double its current size. That would allow us to participate in more of the larger projects we have now, yet stay small with around 10 employees.”
Motivating Factor
Client reactions are energizing, inspiring and fulfilling for McDonald. She says, “The confirmation from new clients that they love and appreciate what we have created is so rewarding. Recently I got a ‘wow!’ reaction that seemed never-ending after an apartment transformation. It was an absolute thrill!”
Typical
Workday
No day is typical because things are always shifting, but McDonald is a consistent early riser because “there are never enough hours in the day!” She quickly adds on that this is a good problem to have, “Busy days mean progress and always moving forward.”
Top The open kitchen features Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances and a textured countertop in Caesarstone. The textured window treatments are from Hunter Douglas. Left The entrance foyer features Phillip Jeffries indigo grass wallpaper. Dropped ceilings hide beams and the team added brand new crown mouldings.
Right This serious cook’s kitchen includes an induction cooktop, Bosch and Liebherr appliances, PMDB&I custom cabinetry and wood flooring refinished to match.
Photography + Headshot Greg Morris
NYC Home Renovations & Interiors
From Concept to Completion. Elegant Simplicity. Timeless. Contemporary Sensibilities. Fused with Your Vision. Integrated, Seamless Process. Innovation in Design. Finished Interiors. Passionate Pursuit of Excellence in Every Aspect.
Paula McDonald
Design Build & Interiors
Finishing School
An Upper East Side apartment takes its cues from its owner-builder’s love for the details—and more than a few bold choices.
WRITTEN BY KELLY VENCILL SANCHEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADRIAN GAUT | STYLING BY NICHOLAS OBEID
Architecture: Erin de Losier and Christine Song, John B. Murray Architect Interior Design: Jay Billiet, Jay J. Billiet Interior Design
Home Builder: Michael Vella, Vella Interiors
Garrett leather covers a custom ottoman by Ben Erickson in the living room, where a framed relief by Beth Carter is displayed above a sofa upholstered in mohair from Knoll Textiles. The stoneware table lamps are by Dumais Made.
Redoing a prewar apartment from scratch inevitably opens the door to a staggering set of decisions. Yet one New York City project benefited not only from an experienced team of professionals but had a homeowner-general contractor with a crystalclear vision for the place and a willingness to take risks. “Both were invaluable,” says designer Jay Billiet. “When I saw his goals for the space, I said to myself, ‘Jay, this is your opportunity to push the limits. You’re not going to be able to do a burntorange lacquered kitchen ever again,’ ” he laughs. “Everyone says that powder rooms are like jewel boxes—this entire apartment is like a jewel box.”
His client, Michael Vella, wanted a place where he could showcase his work and spend time while managing construction projects nearby. It would serve as both a city pied-à-terre and a perch to entertain friends, clients and potential clients. After looking at more than 50 units, Vella settled on a Park Avenue apartment with ample natural light—the first of several must-haves. “I wanted it to be a backdrop for midcentury modern furniture, a little edgy yet sophisticated and really clean yet classical,” he explains. “But I didn’t want the architecture or the midcentury vibe to shout— I wanted them to feel like they belonged together.”
Knowing that the project would require a complete renovation, he called on Billiet, with whom he’s collaborated on several projects, and Erin de Losier and Christine Song at John B. Murray Architect, a firm he’s worked with for nearly 20 years.
For de Losier and Song, getting the architectural envelope just right meant creating an effortless flow from the moment you step into the foyer. A central gallery now connects the rooms, which the pair detailed with a through line of decorative plaster moldings, fine millwork and carved stone panels. “Our shared sense for the apartment was classical bones with a modernist sensibility,” de Losier explains. “Michael’s a real craftsman, and the millwork here is furniture-grade,” adds Song.
Billiet’s approach to the decoration began as it always does: through conversations with the homeowner. “Michael and I talked about where we would put color and where we wouldn’t,” the designer recalls. At one early meeting, Billiet brought fabrics and materials along with a photo of a bird whose feathers were a mix of jewel tones, browns and beiges. “I said to Michael, ‘This might not make sense right now, but look at this palette,’ ” the designer recalls. “It was a great balance of hues and became our guide for everything,” says Vella. “Where we don’t have color, we have a lot of texture, because we wanted the apartment to have an elevated feel,” adds Billiet. High-gloss lacquering—burnt orange for the kitchen and blue for a tucked-away wet bar—was a bold move that wouldn’t work for everyone, the designer says. “But because I know Michael and his taste level, I had more opportunities to introduce elements I might not have been able to otherwise.”
Arrayed throughout the residence are midcentury chairs collected by Vella along with an assortment of fine art and objects. “I got to curate this space out of things that Michael loved,” says Billiet. When they were unable to source the right piece for a room, the designer would ask Vella if he might fabricate something in his shop. “And Michael was always up for it,” says Billiet, who points to the banquette in the curved breakfast nook. When a perfectly scaled table for the tight space proved elusive, Vella crafted a swing-arm model with a wenge wood hinge. “There were a lot of steps to get the perfect fit for that banquette,” he says. “But making something easy is not part of the design process. The primary goal is always beauty.”
After building countless homes for clients, and several outside Manhattan for himself and his family, Vella finally has a city retreat of his own. “This apartment has increased my productivity by 100 percent,” he says. “The team designed exactly what I had envisioned—every detail, every intersection. This one was special and a labor of love.”
Above: Designer Jay Billiet wrapped the kitchen in a richly patterned Calacatta Macchia Vecchia marble from BAS Stone and high-gloss cabinetry painted Benjamin Moore’s Charlton Brown. Polished nickel details are courtesy of the Nanz pulls and Waterworks faucet.
Opposite: The architects designed the breakfast nook’s banquette, which Billiet upholstered in a Sunbrella fabric and paired with hand-painted wallpaper by Porter Teleo and a Kurt Østervig chair for Brande Møbelfabrik from Wyeth. Vella Interiors crafted the swing-arm table.
Above: Clad in Calacatta Vagli marble from BAS Stone, the primary bathroom features a custom vanity with polished nickel Nanz pulls and a Waterworks faucet. The medicine cabinet conceals a secret TV.
Opposite: Dualoy leather adorns the bespoke walnut desk designed by architect Erin de Losier. The chair is by Kaare Klint for Rud. Rasmussen, sourced via Modernlink, and the draperies of David S. Gibson mohair are by RoseHyll Studio. A Crosby Street Studios flatweave grounds the space.
A fluted wall painted Benjamin Moore’s Light Pewter anchors the primary bedroom, where porcelain Bocci sconces illuminate custom mahogany nightstands. Bronze pulls ornament the closet, which is trimmed in a Holland & Sherry wool flannel. The coverlet is from Saved NY.
“Making something easy is not part of the design process. The primary goal is always beauty.”
–MICHAEL VELLA
FAMILY FIRST
A materials-forward approach gives a Long Island home elegant edge—and the chops to stand up to young children.
WRITTEN BY RACHEL GALLAHER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GIEVES ANDERSON
STYLING BY MIEKE TEN HAVE
Architecture: Christopher Stoddard, Stoddard
Architecture
Interior Design: Emily Del Bello, Emily Del Bello Interiors
Home Builder: Jon Bijari, Jon Bijari Custom Homes
In the dining room, a custom table by Hrair Baronian expands to fit the homeowners’ extended family. Designer Emily Del Bello paired it with Artistic Frame chairs upholstered in a Kravet fabric. The pendant lights are by Remains Lighting Company.
When a Manhattan-based couple decided to leave their apartment for Long Island’s greener pastures, it was because they were looking for more space to accommodate their growing family. In search of a tight-knit community with good schools, they purchased a property in the village of Roslyn with plans to build their forever home from scratch.
“Our wish was for the house to look timeless,” shares the client of her aesthetic directive. “You can always change out accessories, but the foundation—the flooring, the kitchen, the tiles— needed to be classic and cozy.” The couple’s other leading design directive: durability. “I wanted the look of a hotel but also for my three kids and their friends to be able to sit down anywhere in wet bathing suits,” she adds.
For designer Emily Del Bello, who has three young boys herself, making a house kid-friendly never means sacrificing style. “No matter how beautiful a home is, if there are children, you’re going to have messes,” she says. “Our job is to help homeowners feel excited about having their friends over and not nervous about the wear and tear.” Her fail-safe approach entails focusing on tough materials in high-touch areas. For this project, Del Bello utilized outdoor-grade fabrics, quartzite countertops and durable wool rugs, weaving together a transitional look that would stand up to daily use from active kids—and seamlessly evolve as they grow.
Crafting a chic yet indestructible residence was a collaborative effort with the project team of architect Christopher Stoddard, general contractor Jon Bijari and lighting designer Staci Ruiz. “The clients requested a traditional shingle-style house but didn’t require that it be symmetrical, which allowed me to be a bit creative with the rooflines,” shares Stoddard. The resulting structure bridges classic with
contemporary, balancing soaring ceilings with intimacy, courtesy of a cleverly laid-out procession of rooms in lieu of an open floor plan. “The space is really well thought out,” adds Bijari. “We approached this home with the philosophy of a yacht builder and tried to take advantage of every inch.”
Warm wood details—namely, a base of white oak millwork with a rich honey stain—further amp up the cozy quotient, which Del Bello played to with a cosseting palette of creams, tans and grays layered with mellow textures, subtle patterns and timeless natural materials. Take the family room, where coffered wood ceilings are balanced with a sleek limestone fireplace surround, walls clad in a striated paper and an oatmeal-hued sectional with room for the whole family to stretch out.
In a handful of instances (see: the entryway’s dramatic fluted walls and the primary bathroom’s chevron-laid Calacatta Gold marble tile), the client admits that she wasn’t sure about the options Del Bello presented—at first. “Again and again, she told me to trust the process,” the homeowner recalls, noting that the guiding mantra for the project was trust, believe and you shall receive. “Emily exceeded my expectations so many times,” she adds.
Nowhere is this truer than the top floor, where the designer tailored each child’s room to their distinct little personalities. Awash in muted colors and ageless patterns, “They’re sophisticated, classy spaces that can grow with them,” the client says. And for the primary suite, the project mantra was put to use as Del Bello was given carte blanche to create a Hamptons-inspired hideaway with an upholstered bed in a textural bouclé, sisal wallpaper and sweeping linen curtains. The intent, of course, was to shape a retreat for the grownups— but the room’s wall-to-wall carpeting had other plans. “The kids run into our room every night and sleep on the floor,” says the owner with a laugh. “But at the end of the day, it feels like we’re on vacation in our own house.”
Del Bello used sturdy materials to make the living room familyfriendly, including a sectional covered in Pollack cloth and chairs that wear a Holly Hunt textile. Striated Phillip Jeffries wallpaper backs the limestone Chesneys fireplace. The coffee table is from Bradley USA.
Above: A sunny breakfast nook just off the kitchen, anchored by a Moooi table, is a favorite family gathering spot. Homenature dining chairs complement the oak flooring, and a Lumfardo chandelier hangs overhead.
Left: Dual kitchen islands provide space for the kids to sit on Uultis counter stools while the parents prep meals. A limewashed range hood features a Calacatta Borghini trim. Oak cabinetry is accented by pulls from Simon’s Hardware.
Above: In the primary bedroom, an Olivya Stone Aoede lounge chair wearing Holly Hunt fabric sits near a fireplace with a mantelpiece from Chesneys and custom oak bookshelves. The drapery is composed of Romo linen.
Opposite: To give the space the feeling of a hotel, Del Bello commissioned a headboard finished with Holly Hunt fabric for the bed, which is made up with Frette linens. A Verellen table lamp sits on a McGee & Co. nightstand. The wallpaper is Holly Hunt.
Above: The eldest daughter’s bedroom is feminine but not childish, with wallpaper from Moth and an RH Teen canopy bed upholstered in a dusty-pink velvet. Two Anthropologie nightstands include functional storage, each one crowned by a charming pendant light from the same brand.
Opposite: Rattan-wrapped drawer pulls from Etsy on the same room’s built-ins add warm texture, embellishing the desktop. The Pink Ribbon desk chair designed by Nika Zupanc is a whimsical finishing touch.
Architecture: Rosamund Young, Rosamund Young Architecture P.C. Interior Design: Monica Fried, Monica Fried Design Home Builder: George Greige, Cum Laude Group, Inc Landscape Architecture: Rosalia Sanni and Jonathan Hopkins, Rosalia Sanni Design LLC
Bold Moves
Sleek shapes and lush textures imbue a new-build Greenwich residence with thoroughly modern elegance.
WRITTEN BY MAILE PINGEL PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLE FRANZEN
After years of looking for just the right home, a couple instead found just the right lot. The verdant slope, not far from the Fairchild Wildflower Audubon Sanctuary, had a stone fence but nothing more, though it did come with approved plans. By working with designer Monica Fried and their longtime friend, architect Rosamund Young, the couple was able to turn that footprint into the abode they had been looking for.
“Adhering to the existing footprint while massaging the dimensions and roofline allowed us to sculpt the home into a romantic, modern house, utilizing natural materials responsive to the Connecticut context,” says Young, noting the home’s exterior stone and slate roof. “This house was very much inspired by the surrounding landscape, but we also took inspiration from some of the local homes we’d drive by.” Set back from the road and approached by a curved drive—the clever work of landscape designers Rosalia Sanni and Jonathan Hopkins—the home is hidden, then revealed, furthering its sense of belonging.
In collaboration with general contractor George Greige, Fried and Young created an interior envelope that feels grounded and harmonious and that offers a little surprise in every room. “All of the major spaces, while consistent with the entire home, have something special,” Young explains.
The curved stair in the entryway, a master class in plasterwork, is a case in point. “It was critical to the home because it softens the edges,” the architect adds. But there are myriad other delights too, like a secret cocktail bar hidden behind the living room’s walnut paneling and a shady covered terrace that can quickly be screened.
“When we looked through the clients’ collection of inspiration images, they were all clean, calm interiors—Belgian, or almost Californian, in their relaxed nature,” shares Fried. “They didn’t want anything busy or distracting.” But they also didn’t want a colorless home. “I’m a big fan of neutrals and bringing the color in through the art,” the designer continues, noting how the palette of the Alex Prager photograph in the living room inspired the blue rug and the orangey-red fabric
of the side chairs. “There’s color, but it has a neutral effect and reads as just cozy,” she notes.
To balance the richness of the living room’s palette and paneling, Fried took an equally sumptuous approach to the dining room, which sits just across the entryway. “We chose a soft black paint to make the space feel intimate, especially by candlelight and for dinners,” she explains. And what sets this room apart, architecturally, is the neoclassical molding.
“The formality of the dining room called for it,” adds Young. Subtly adding further pattern into the space are a marble table, walnut chairs and antique burl-wood mirrors.
Fried continued that play of wood grain and marble veining in the adjoining serving bar that leads to the family’s main living area: the kitchen. There, she and Young devised millwork to relate back to the living room’s paneling, giving the blonde-wood cabinets a similar raised detail. “The goal was to keep the kitchen beautiful, with an island they could serve off of and then a prep kitchen behind the range wall,” explains Fried. For the breakfast table, she used a set of vintage Monk chairs designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa with black leather seats that create a visual tie to the dining room. And the adjacent family room “is just a great hang out space,” the designer says. “It has a beautiful view of the gardens and it feels enveloping.”
Two pieces from Andy Warhol’s “Moonwalk” series add color—and a feeling of possibility.
Upstairs, the primary bedroom is a light and bright space with lots of windows and “soft tones of blue, gray and ivory,” says Fried. “They wanted the space to be restful but not sterile, and the settee under the window gives them an extra place to relax.” Their bathroom was given a similarly tranquil spirit with “all the colors and textures you’d expect in a spa,” she notes. And in a tender move, the stair landing just outside the bedrooms became a comfy family nook. “It’s a place where they can sit and chat before bed,” says the designer.
From the front door—from the front drive, really—the home emanates a quiet contentment. “It’s fresh, warm and layered, and the clients’ art collection really shines through,” says Fried. “The house just has a unique and modern elegance about it.”
A curved plaster staircase finished by artisan David Wohl welcomes visitors into this Greenwich, Connecticut, home. The travertine table, found on 1stdibs, is paired with a Vonnegut/Kraft chair upholstered in a Castel mohair. The pendant light is by Ovature Studios.
At the front door, a 1970s steel stool offers a convenient perch.
The mixed-media work is by artist Diana Al-Hadid. Oak floors laid in a chevron pattern contrast with the adjacent dining room painted Farrow & Ball’s Off-Black.
Above: A serving bar featuring a wine closet and a wet bar by JEM Woodworking sits off the dining room. Its countertop is Nero Portoro marble from BAS Stone. Vintage Peter Celsing sconces tie to Studio Henry Wilson hardware.
Opposite: The dining room’s chairs and sideboard are from Stahl + Band. A Paul Matter chandelier hangs above a bespoke table crafted from BAS Stone marble while the sconces are from Orphan Work. The photograph is by Sze Tsung Nicolás Leong.
The kitchen’s relaxed ambience comes courtesy of oak cabinets by All Star Woodworking. The breakfast table from Fair is paired with vintage chairs from Modernab Gallery. The pendant light and sconces on the far wall are Allied Maker and the barstools are from 2Modern.
Andy Warhol works hang above a Molteni&C sofa in the family room, where chairs from Avenue Road mingle with a J.M. Szymanski coffee table, a Stahl + Band chandelier and a Beauvais rug.
Atop the mantel is a copper panel from Shop by Marie-Christine.
“The clients’ inspiration images were all clean, calm interiors Belgian, or almost Californian, in their relaxed nature.”
–MONICA FRIED
Above: A Cocoon tub with a Waterworks filler anchors the primary bathroom, joined by a Harbour stool and sconces from L’Aviva Home. The drapery fabric, as in the bedroom, is Cowtan & Tout.
Opposite: The calming primary bedroom is grounded by a rug from Crosby Street Studios. A settee from Colony provides a lounging spot. The nightstand and table lamp are from Fair. A chandelier by Gallery L7 crowns the room.
Architecture: Sid Schlomann, SI Design Interior Design: Luba Libarikian, Libarikian Interiors
Home Builder: Ostap Vidov, Kova Construction
Historical Revival
A gem among Scarsdale’s stately houses, an over-100-year-old abode now has a style all its own.
WRITTEN BY JENNIFER BOLES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GIEVES ANDERSON
The home’s original Palladian window casts light into a room the owners dubbed the Whiskey Library. A carbonized-blackwood wallcovering by Maya Romanoff, an Anthropologie sofa and leather-and-walnut lounge chairs by Beam foster a nighttime atmosphere.
Buying a circa 1917 Colonial Revival-style house was a surprising decision for a Scarsdale couple who prefer modern design. Initially planning to build a new home for themselves, their young children and their treasured collection of Southeast Asian contemporary art, the husband and wife changed their mind after viewing the distinguished old house, which was up for sale for the first time in years. While enchanted by the old-world curb appeal, some of the period details inside the house were not to their liking, especially its heavy crown molding and dark wood paneling. Recognizing potential nonetheless, the couple purchased the property with the intention of renovating it to suit their tastes.
Led by designer Luba Libarikian, architect Sid Schlomann and general contractor Ostap Vidov, the overhaul aimed to inject the home with modern perspective without entirely erasing its historical character. “I reminded my clients, ‘You fell in love with this house for a reason, so let’s not change everything,’ ” Libarikian recalls. Most of the exterior architecture was left intact, including its stone cladding, slate roof and an intricate Palladianstyle window. And when changes were made, they were designed to impact the original architecture as little as possible. In addition to replacing old windows with stylistically compatible new ones, Schlomann added an attached garage and upstairs primary suite at the rear of the house, thereby preserving the integrity of the classical façade. Even the paneled front door, which had reached the end of its lifespan, was replaced with an exact copy. “We did as much as we could to respect the history of the house,” says Schlomann. Nonetheless, the inside received a complete makeover conducted with the homeowners’ pareddown aesthetic in mind. Having rid the interiors of their traditional architectural finishes, Libarikian replaced them with contemporary millwork and molding fabricated by Vidov and his team to her specifications. In the living room, simple cove crown molding, white-on-white wall paneling and a sleek stone fireplace create a clean backdrop for the room’s centerpiece: a geometric painting by
artist Sayed Haider Raza. The one note of vibrant color in the otherwise serene space, the art inspired the circular plasterwork detailing on the ceiling. Another collaboration between Libarikian and Vidov, the eye-catching feature is indicative of their collaborative nature. “Luba is so easy to work with; she brings us her ideas and, because my partner, Ney Lozano, and I have been in this business long enough, we have a network of craftspeople who can execute them,” Vidov shares.
Uniquely 21st-century needs dictated some design choices, particularly in the kitchen. Because the wife, who is a nutritionist, planned to use the space to film meal prep and other video content for her business, Libarikian chose camera-worthy finishes that also hold up to the family’s daily use. The Naica quartzite island can be used as an attractive surface for filming or serving countertop meals. When messy prep work is involved, the perimeter countertops, which are also made of quartzite, provide an out-of-the-way area to do so. The kitchen’s stylish functionality extends to a built-in dining nook, where open arches and antiqued-mirror paneling make the family’s everyday meals feel intimate and special.
Throughout the house, natural light prevails thanks to Schlomann’s decision to replace windows with models that have more glass and less grillwork. Libarikian amplified that light by relying on soft white walls and creamy colored fabrics for most rooms, including bedrooms and bathrooms. One striking exception is the Whiskey Library. Named for the couple’s collection of vintage whiskeys, which are prominently displayed in wood cabinetry with glass fronts, the clubby room is designed for cozy entertaining and imbibing. Black faux-woodgrain wallpaper, dark green velvet curtains and a shapely black sofa offer a dramatic departure from the rest of the house. “I made the room dark because, when you see it from a distance, it makes you want to walk in and discover what’s there,” says Libarikian.
Given the interior alterations and the addition of modern amenities, the house has changed substantially, but its soul remains much the same. A century later, this Colonial Revival residence continues to be the gracious, inviting family home that it always has been.
Above: The kitchen’s cabinetry, including decorative nooks designed to display pottery, was designed by Today’s Kitchens. The island’s hardy Naica quartzite countertops were sourced from and installed by Dimensional Fabricators.
Opposite: Designer Luba Libarikian chose to line the kitchen walls in photogenic glazed ceramic tile from TileBar. The pendant lights are by Schwung. Kova Construction crafted the hood atop the Wolf range to the designer’s specifications.
The kitchen extends to a dining nook, where open arches and antiqued-mirror paneling make everyday meals intimate and special.
A newly crafted nook features arches and an antiqued-mirror panel for a less-confining enclosure. Seating includes a bespoke white oak banquette and chairs from Lulu and Georgia. A Currey & Company pendant light and artwork by Anjolie Ela Menon finish out the space.
The Whiskey Library’s built-in cabinetry, which houses the couple’s libation collection, was designed by Libarikian and built by S&S Wood Work Corp. A coffee table by Four Hands rests on a Crate & Barrel rug. The pair of mixed-media pieces are by Jitish Kallat.
Above: The primary bathroom is wrapped in a mix of finishes, including Porcelanosa shower wall tiles and marble mosaic floor tile from TileBar. The cabinetry hardware is by LuxHoldUps and the faucet is Kallista. A Kohler bathtub stands inside the shower.
Opposite: The wife wanted a Hamptons look in the junior suite bedroom, so Libarikian used natural colors and organic-looking pieces, including a Theodore Alexander nightstand, Arteriors lamp and Loloi Rugs carpet. A Crate & Barrel bed wears a wool RH blanket.
Italy
1. East Hampton Village Estate Section
$11.995M | 0.75± Acre | 6 BR | 4.5 BA
Renovated 2022 | Sophisticated Details
2-Story Guest Cottage
Gunite Pool | Pool House
Separate 3-Car Garage 32DavidsLane.com
José (JB) DosSantos 516.901.7017 | jdsantos@bhsusa.com
2. Bayfront Oasis | Westhampton Beach
$9.45M | Spectacular Views | 4,000± sf
5 BR | 5.5 BA | Professional Kitchen Heated Gunite Pool | Cabana Expansive Multi-Level Decks Ocean Access Across Dune Road 218DuneRoad.com
William F. LeMaire
631.288.5208 | wlemaire@bhsusa.com
3. Custom New Construction | Quogue
$7.495M | Built 2024 | 0.74± Acre
4,515± sf | 6 BR | 7 Full, 2 Half BA
Separate Guest Cottage
Covered Porch with Outdoor Fireplace Gunite Saltwater Pool 6AssupsNeck.com
Lauren A. Battista
631.288.5534 | lbattista@bhsusa.com
4. Amagansett Dunes Beach House
$7.95M | 0.82± Acre | 2,382± sf
4 BR | 3 BA | 1,300± sf Sun Deck
4 Covered Porches | 20’ x 40’ Pool Views of Dune Preserve + Ocean Private Community Beach Access 59SandCastleLn.com
William Kuneth 631.875.4200 | wkuneth@bhsusa.com
5. Renovated Classic | East Hampton Village
$5.995M | 0.34± Acre | 5 BR | 3.5 BA Built 1870 + Renovated 2023
Exquisite Period Details | Modern Amenities Heated Gunite Pool + Spa | Pool House 44BuellLane.com
José (JB) DosSantos 516.901.7017 | jdsantos@bhsusa.com
6. 3.9 Acre Paradise | East Hampton
$4.995M | 3.9± Gated Acres | 4,865± sf
6 BR | 6.5 Baths | Renovated 2023
Elegant Living Spaces | Multiple Porches Heated Pool | Tennis | 3-Car Garage 401Route114.com
Timothy C. Burch
917.275.3303 | tburch@bhsusa.com
David Tenenbaum
347.907.5939 | dtenenbaum@bhsusa.com
Join us for a weekend of Art and Design.
FEATURING12 TOP INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Courtney Blanton, Peyton Cochran, Dan Barsanti & Chris Desmone, Kerry Delrose, Sara Hillery, Bryan Huffman, Dana Koebbe, Patrick Mele, Betsy Shiverick,
Alexander Wilson, Doug Wright, Carissa Pintello (NYSID Student Winner)
ENJOY A LECTURE SERIES
Alex Papachristidis,Tom Scheerer, Mitch Owens & Mary McDonald, Tori Mellott, Sarah O'Brien
MEET THE AUTHORS
Tom Scheerer, Philip Gorrivan, Jonathan Savage, Cathy Purple Cherry, Michael Diaz-Griffith, Alexa Hampton
THE HADLEY SPACE
Designed by Sydney Frazier and Victoria Vought
SWOON AT OUR GALLERY
ART INSTALLATION CURATED BY SWOON GALLERY, WESTPORT
SHOW: Weekend of November 8-10th OPENING PARTY: November 7th
Joseph Sidof Founder - CEO
Crafting exceptional outdoor furnishings since 1920. Premium collections in sustainable teak wood, brushed stainless steel and powder-coated aluminum. Recipient of twenty international design excellence awards.
