Luxe Magazine - November/December 2024 San Francisco

Page 168


SAN FRANCISCO

A CELEBRATION of EPICUREAN EXCELLENCE

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.

reynaldo rouco , miami , fl

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.

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.

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

The

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Love. Curved sofas, designed by Sacha Lakic.
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FEATURES

180

In Balance

Architect Timothy Chappelle and designer Jennifer Robin mix dramatic modernism with bold colors in an Atherton home.

198

Forest Idyll

Interior designer Kristen Peña creates a midcentury-influenced, mountain-like escape just outside of Silicon Valley.

210

Between Two Worlds

Oakland-based Yvonne Mouser creates both furniture and fine art, embracing sculptural forms and straightforward functionality.

214

Purple Reign

Designer April Sheldon and architect Houman Sharif use curved elements and rich hues to transform a box-like abode.

ON THE COVER: Architect Timothy Chappelle created a modern Silicon Valley dwelling with sleek lines and a lofty 20-foot ceiling. In the dining area of the great room, designer Jennifer Robin selected a custom Bocci light fixture composed of 150 glass orbs in the clients’ favorite colors. The art-like fixture hangs over Atelier Purcell dining chairs and a Statsky Design table. Page 180

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Stones Featured: Fluted Marble, Honed Limestone, Glazed Lava Stone, Rose Cream Marble, Carrara Marble, Green Jade Marble, Travertine.

We unearth the extraordinary, from handmade terracotta and authentic terrazzo to timeless natural stone that’s sized to meet your needs.

Architect: Wright Design Builder: Morgan-Keefe Builders Interior Designer: Wright Design Interiors Studio Photographer: Rebecca Lehde Follow us on Instagram

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EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Bianca Buffamonte

CIRCULATION + DISTRIBUTION

SENIOR MANAGER, MANUFACTURING + DISTRIBUTION Stacey Rigney

Luxe Interiors + Design®, (ISSN 1949-2022), Arizona (ISSN 2163-9809), California (ISSN 2164-0122), Chicago (ISSN 2163-9981), Colorado (ISSN 21639949), Florida (ISSN 2163-9779), New York (ISSN 2163-9728), Pacific Northwest (ISSN 21679584), San Francisco (ISSN 2372-0220), Southeast (ISSN 2688-5735), Texas (ISSN 2163-9922), Vol. 22, No. 6, November/December, prints bimonthly and is published by SANDOW, 3651 FAU Boulevard, Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Luxe Interiors + Design® (“Luxe”) provides information on luxury homes and lifestyles. Luxe Interiors + Design®, SANDOW, its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, editors, (Publisher) accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. The Publisher has neither investigated nor endorsed the companies and/or products that advertise within the publication or that are mentioned editorially. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims made by the Advertisers or the merits of their respective products or services advertised or promoted in Luxe Publisher neither expressly nor implicitly endorses such Advertiser products, services or claims. Publisher expressly assumes no liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by any purchaser or user for any products or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein and strongly recommends that any purchaser or user investigate such products, services, methods and/or claims made

Featured: Espresso Machine and Warming Drawer. Hawk & Co, Club 1683 member
Photo by Adahlia Cole and Colin Peck

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.

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

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 (including San Francisco, operated by local partner Luminaire) 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

Photography by Christopher Stark

OPEN HOUSE ARHAUS

Luxury retailer Arhaus has a new 16,000square-foot home at Stanford Shopping Center. The two-story showroom, brimming with the brand’s artisan-crafted designs, be ckons with a grand patio that is “not something we have at every location,” says Hannah Wickberg, associate director of PR and experiential marketing at Arhaus. “It allows us an exciting opportunity to feature a wider array of our outdoor furnishings, from dining to lounge pieces to decor. We love the opportunity to showcase a nice breadth in a market that we know enjoys outdoor living.” Inside, 15-foot-ceilings and expansive windows yield a light-filled backdrop for various room schemes—complete with greenery and artwork. Settle into the Gianni curved sectional, upholstered in a sumptuous Italian-made fabric, or marvel at the Ghiaccio chandelier (both right), its multiple tiers composed of curved textured glass. For those desiring a hig h-touch experience, complimentary design services are available to clients for projects big and small. arhaus.com

TALKING SHOP

SUE FISHER KING

After 46 years on Sacramento Street, home design store Sue Fisher King has landed on Fillmore Street. The new open and airy space “showcases our merchandise in an easy-tonavigate layout,” says the store’s proprietor and namesake. While the address is different, the approach to the inventory remains the same. “We have always focused on the handmade, and our customers continue to appreciate unusual and handcrafted products in every category,” King says, noting that “people are more adventurous and unconventional” in their decor these days. For example, table settings and decorations are chosen “with an eye toward color and variety and mixing disparate elements.” When she s tarted out in 1978, bed linens were stocked in mostly all-white, in varying thread counts with minimal embellishment. “Now, nothing is too dramatic for a lot of customers,” King observes. Longstanding relationships with designers and craftspeople contribute to her enduring passion for retail. (Look for new ceramics from the Mexico workshop of Gorky Gonzalez, whom King recalls visiting over four decades ago; the late potter’s son currently helms the operation.) Her discovery of fresh merchandise, camaraderie with staff and inspiring clientele still elicit joy and excitement. suefisherking.com

INSPIRING MIND

LISA STAPRANS

Since day one, ethical and sustainable practices have been a priority for Lisa Staprans, who founded her eponymous firm in 1992. The Portola Valley-based interior designer is a sustaining member of the Good Future Design Alliance, an industry movement aimed at reducing waste in built environments. Here, she discusses those aspirations. stapransdesign.com

Why did you join the GFDA? I met executive director Kathryn Soter a few years ago and was immediately excited about her work. We discussed potential collaborations, and I joined because I believe her efforts are crucial for our future survival and well-being. Our world is literally drowning in waste, and this alliance addresses that critical issue.

What are some low-waste practices that you’ve implemented? Recycling and repurposing items to avoid landfill waste. Finding new homes for existing furnishings. Dedicating part of our team specifically to waste-reduction efforts.

Collaborating with contractors to find recycling options for construction debris. Identifying donation opportunities for old appliances and lighting fixtures.

When renovating or decorating, what are some things to be mindful of?

It’s crucial to use healthy, nontoxic products—from paint and tile to wood finishes and wall insulation—and work with manufacturers who share this approach. Our environments can significantly impact our health, so we need to be vigilant. For example, with materials used in furniture and bedding, focus on non-off-gassing products. Consider the manufacturing processes as well as the carbon footprint of shipping and transportation.

Any eco-friendly products and brands you’re especially excited about?

Several stand out, like zero-VOC paints and water-based wallpaper adhesives; wood flooring with healthy finishes— leaders in this field include Carlisle Wide Plank Floors and Schotten & Hansen; and Sandra Jordan’s alpaca fabrics, which offer supply-chain transparency and are naturally fade-resistant and hypoallergenic. We’re all in this together, and I strive to align with companies that share these values of creating healthy and sustainable products.

COLLAB

FOUND & FORM X RELATIVITY COLLECTIVE

Bay Area artist and interior designer Celia Carstens was looking for help in printing her inaugural textile collection. Enter Erin Minckley, owner of Chicago-based Relativity Textiles and the recently debuted Relativity Collective, her artist collaboration initiative. In Minckley, Carstens found an adviser to guide her through the production process. “She really pushed me to narrow down the designs that I loved most and to think of new ideas that would complement and strengthen my brand as a whole,” Carstens says. The result is a line of hand-painted wallpapers and fabrics. “Each pattern begins with an abstract motif that is created through a watercolor sketch,” explains Carstens, proprietor of Found & Form textile studio. The paintings are then scanned, digitized and refined. “Erin and her team helped with the digital renderings of each design in order to get to the final product,” Carstens continues, adding that the process bounces between renderings and printings “until the color and scale all make sense from an interiors perspective.” The collection is entirely inspired by the natural beauty of the West Coast. Take Seaglass, whose organic shapes emulate the brushstrokes of a watercolor landscape she painted while sitting on a Carmel beach. As Carstens notes, “I often look to capture the essence of places I love and cherish.” found-form.com; relativitytextiles.com

W0 Schifman

www.thescalecollective.com

Finest Antiques, Museum-Quality Restoration, Custom and Reproduction from Antiques to Contemporary.

Founded by third-generation artisan and antiques dealer Claudio Mariani in 1986, C. Mariani is a distinguished showroom, renowned atelier and wholesaler of European high-end antiques and art from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. C. Mariani is also a full service workshop for custom projects, from antiques to modern.

C. Mariani offers the broadest range of museum-quality restoration services including conservation, repairs, cleaning, waxing, polishing, refinishing, reinforcing and stabilizing, height adjusting, Chinoiserie, French polishing, gilding, marquetry, parquetry, stone and metal work, mirrors, fine art repair, mounting and presentation cases, specialty leather including desktop leather replacement, reupholstering, veneering, and embossing.

CLAUDIO MARIANI Founder

Elevate your home with stunning Cristallo Blue Quartzite, backlit to perfection. In stock at Carmel Stone Imports, your trusted Bay Area engineered and natural stone supplier.

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.

NOTABLES

Da Vinci Marble

From Italy’s finest craftsmen comes Architectural Elements, a plethora of hand-carved products, including this Statuarietto marble sink. Expertly envisioned by Rococo & Taupe for SF Decorator Showcase, it is carved to perfection by the Da Vinci Marble custom team. davincimarble.com

Chris Howard Antiques and Modern

Handcrafted in solid walnut with dramatic curved backs, these authentic midcentury modern dining chairs are by renowned Danish designer Kai Kristiansen. Elevate any modern interior design with these timeless chairs. Available in thousands of fabrics and leathers. antiquesandmodern.com

Boyd Lighting

The Quadrant Sconce is Boyd’s latest collaboration with designer Roger Thomas. Inspired by the domes of Italy, the cast bronze bowl and details are softly illuminated by LEDs housed within the machined brass arms. The Quadrant is UL-approved for both indoors and out. boydlighting.com

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.

MORE SELECTIONS ORE FOR EVERY STYLE OR

Discover premier cross-category sourcing at Las Vegas Market Winter 2025!

Explore Building B, Floor 2, where new and expanded elevated design resources await. B2 is packed with captivating brands and products, perfectly complementing the 120 lines open 2 year-round at the Las Vegas Design Center. In the vibrant city of Las Vegas, it’s your ultimate one-stop-shop for exceptional product discovery. Preview some of the incredible brands at Las Vegas Market below, including Caracole, Elegant Furniture and Lighting, Empire Art Direct, Four Hands, O.W. Lee, Theodore Alexander, and Varaluz. our

Varaluz
O.W. Lee
Elegant Furniture and Lighting
Theodore Alexander
Caracole
Four Hands
Empire Art Direct

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

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

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.”

–ANTONIO DELOATCH, antoniodeloatch.com Deco Throw, johannahoward.com

–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

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

–CONSTANZA COLLARTE, collarte.co Glyph Vase, mousstudio.com

Take Note

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.

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CALIFORNIA PENINSULA CHAPTER 2024 Design Excellence Award Winners

For the past 35 years, the California Peninsula Chapter of ASID has recognized the most extraordinary local design talent. Each year, some of the area’s best interior design professionals compete in its annual Design Excellence Awards for the honor of receiving recognition for their outstanding work, while also inspiring a new generation of designers. These award-winning projects exemplify the devotion and passion interior design professionals embody when designing the spaces they have been entrusted to create.

2024 DEA COMMITTEE:

Linda Sullivan, ASID Allied, Gala Co-Chair

Amy Friedberg, ASID Allied, Gala Co-Chair

Divya Vijayanandakumar, ASID Allied, Auction Co-Chair

Nidhi Shrivastava, ASID Allied, Auction Co-Chair

Noura Tawfik, ASID Allied, Competition Co-Chair

Cecilia Pinto, ASID Allied, Competition Co-Chair

Janine Arietta, ASID Allied, CaPen ASID President

Chris Nobriga, ASID Allied, CaPen ASID President-Elect

2024 DEA JUDGES:

Brianne Bishop, ASID

Brianne Bishop Design

Kimberly Bentley, ASID Allied, CaPen ASID Finance Director

Cigdem Taftali Bulut, ID2 Concepts Interior Design Studio

Tom Carrubba, square three architecture

Bert R. deViterbo Jr., AIA, Gensler

2024 DEA GALA EVENT SPONSORS:

PRESENTING

Mercedes-Benz of Stevens Creek

2023-2024 CALIFORNIA PENINSULA ASID CHAPTER SPONSORS:

DIAMOND

All Natural Stone

Lucy Penfield, ASID Allied, Lucy Interiors

Lenore Weiss, ASID, Lenore Weiss Design

All Natural Stone

DIAMOND

Coast Lighting

PLATINUM

Riggs Distributing

Luxe Interiors + Design

Sherwin-Williams

PLATINUM

GOLD

Da Vinci Marble

Greenberg Design Gallery

Atherton Appliance & Kitchens

Lusso Inc

Dean Birinyi Photography

H|S Hydro Systems

GOLD

MSI Surfaces

University Electric

Home Appliance Center

Bay Stone

Benjamin Moore

Cosentino

Atelier 151 by Khrome Studios

DPS Decorative Plumbing

Artistic Tile & Stone

VENDORS CREDITED IN PROJECTS:

Davies Appliance

Da Vinci Marble

House of Rohl

Jack London Kitchen & Bath

SILVER

Artistic Tile & Stone

Bay Stone

Ferguson

Riggs Distributing

Stark

Da Vinci Marble

MSI Surfaces

Riggs Distributing

Sherwin-Williams

University Electric

Home Appliance Center

Valet Custom Cabinets & Closets

BRONZE

Sherwin-Williams

Maxwell Fabrics

Lutz Plumbing Inc.

MEDIA

Valet Custom Cabinets & Closets

Luxe Interiors + Design

PLATINUM Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM

Sonoma Interiors

With the goal of creating a spa-like retreat to unwind from the day, this modern bathroom delivers style and functionality for a busy couple. Repeated throughout, crisp rectilinear forms are softened by the warmth of walnut cabinetry. Thanks to the introduction of oversized windows, natural light and shadows play throughout. Designed to minimize intrusion, given the couple’s opposite schedules, motion-activated, under-cabinet lighting provides soft illumination for nighttime.

GOLD Award Winner

Fleur de Lis Designs

FURNITURE, FIXTURE OR ELEMENT

In addition to a dedicated entertainment area, the homeowners desired a standout feature. Combining both wishes, the designer created a bar feature wall where ten individual locking cubbies showcase favorite spirits, while a backlit countertop adds ambience. All the necessary appliances are also integrated into the unit to keep the party going! Conversational seating and a cocktail table placed in front of the bar make this space a true destination within the home.

Photography Ross Pushinaitis

GOLD Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN

Design Theory

Interiors of California

Photography Thomas Kuoh

This modern custom chef’s kitchen is the ideal showcase for its strikingly beautiful materials, which include bamboo cabinets and polished porcelain and quartz slabs. A dramatic book-matched porcelain slab wraps the range hood, creating a dramatic focal point, which—thanks to custom cabinets specially designed to conceal small appliances—is undisturbed by clutter.

SILVER Award Winner

GOLD Award Winner

EMERGING PROFESSIONAL / RESIDENTIAL

Canovella Studio | Tasnim Said, ASID Allied

With a goal to create a serene escape for a young family of five, the designer used an earthy color palette in this vacation home to create an inviting air and bring the beauty of nature indoors. Innovative solutions like a bunk bed with a rolling trundle were employed to optimize space, making this room a fun and peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Photography Tasnim Said

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN

Sonoma Interiors

Andrea Halkovich, ASID Allied

With clean lines and rectilinear forms, this Japanese meets midcentury-inspired kitchen maintains warmth with timeless wood tones and abundant natural light. Functioning as the heart of the home, it serves as a hub for this busy family and meets their entertaining goals, while providing myriad modern conveniences for the chef. With its simplicity of palette and repetition of linear elements, the backsplash adds an unexpected air of motion to the otherwise calm space.

Photography Luis Costadone

SILVER Award Winner

FURNITURE, FIXTURE OR ELEMENT

Fleur de Lis Designs | Cindy Steele, ASID Allied

After purchasing this expansive table, the homeowners were unable to find chairs that felt right. Understanding the clients’ desire for chairs that were the correct proportion and color, the designer created a set of chairs in rich, dark wood with a cool, pale green contrast. Upholstered in a silvery floral fabric, the chairs have an understated chic that blends perfectly with the dining room’s quiet luxury.

Photography Ross Pushinaitis

SILVER Award Winner

FURNITURE, FIXTURE OR ELEMENT

Fleur de Lis

Designs | Cindy Steele, ASID Allied

While building a new home, the client wanted a kitchen nook with ample space to work, charging capabilities and a clear view to the family room. Suffering from back issues, the client also required chairs suitable to sitting comfortably for long periods. In response, the designer created a bespoke table with cord management, a custom chair design and space for six to gather, work and enjoy a meal.

Photography Ross Pushinaitis

SILVER Award Winner

SILVER Award Winner

HISTORIC PRESERVATION / RENOVATION

The Boyle Design Group | Sarah Boyle, ASID Allied

Emphasizing “form follows function,” the designer and her team specialize in creating beautiful, livable, highly personal spaces. With a focus on kitchens and bathrooms, the firm is known for their material selection expertise, custom cabinetry design and construction knowledge. With an aim to enhance well-being, their designs reflect a dedication to client satisfaction and a legacy of excellence.

Photography Paul Black

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL

RESIDENCE OVER 3,000 SQ FT

Photography Christophe Testi

SILVER Award Winner

Alison Whittaker Design, Inc. | Alison Whittaker, ASID Allied

Downsizing, the homeowners wished to build a smaller, transitional-style home with clean lines and subtle textures that could incorporate their existing furniture. Using the tree views as a backdrop, the designer chose colors, wood tones and light textures that perfectly complement the new home’s biophilic feel.

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL

RESIDENCE OVER 3,000 SQ FT

TRG Architecture + Interior Design | Leslie Lamarre, ASID Associate

This design puts a fresh spin on the modern farmhouse, incorporating unexpected elements that elevate and personalize the aesthetic, such as these brushed-oak bifold bar doors, which can lock from behind when not in use.

Photography R. Brad Knipstein

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN

Design Matters | Julie Cavanaugh, ASID

The homeowners’ architectural restrictions wouldn’t allow for a large addition, so the designer skillfully reimagined the kitchen layout. With a distinct gold and black range hood as its centerpiece, ample storage, beautiful tile and slab materials, a shimmering lighting design over the island and stunning barstools, this expansive space delivers livable luxury to the clients’ growing family.

Photography Bernardo Grijalva

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL BATHROOM

DekoRati Interiors | Rati Mishra, ASID Associate

Elevating everyday rituals to indulgent experiences for the client, the designer curated a sanctuary of luxury in the transformation of this Appian Oasis primary bath. Curated with premium product lines that marry transitional design with classic charm, the premium finishes and meticulous attention to detail create the perfect balance of functionality and flair in this elegant oasis.

Photography Isabelle Eubanks

SILVER Award Winner

JTM Interiors | Janet T. Marena, ASID

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN

This nature-inspired kitchen was created for a family that loves cooking, entertaining and the great outdoors. Featuring biophilic design elements, unique stone and oak accents and pendants and undercounter lighting for functionality and ambience, the designer also added skylights and folding doors that lead onto a covered porch for seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Photography Agnieszka Jakubowicz

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL BATHROOM

Harrell Design + Build | Lisa Mellberg, ASID Allied

Expansive, yet serene, this bathroom remodel provides a spa-like experience each and every day. From its spacious wet room that promotes luxurious relaxation in the shower and bathtub to its seamless connection to a hot tub on the adjoining patio, the designer took on the numerous design challenges and created a bucolic personal paradise.

Photography Jean Bai

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL BATHROOM

JAS Interior Designs | Janine Arietta, ASID Allied; Martha Queiroz

Challenged to transform a cluttered, outmoded primary bath into a space that exudes healing calm, the designer focused on two distinct elements: the stunning views and organizing the homeowner’s holistic products and apothecary elements to find the right balance of character and functionality. The result is a uniquely customized space for unwinding and rejuvenating.

Photography Dean Birinyi

SILVER Award Winner

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY RESIDENCE UNDER 3,000 SQ FT

Pamela Pennington Studios | Pamela Pennington, ASID

The designer created this less-than-2,000-square-foot home for indoor-outdoor entertaining. From the beautiful furnishings and finishes to the rich earthy palette to the snug chef’s kitchen that supports large dinner parties, the interior exudes organic chic. Outside, the lush landscaping, stables and riding ring are an equestrian paradise.

Photography Eric Zepeda

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY

RESIDENCE OVER 3,000 SQ FT

Photography Bess Friday

SILVER Award Winner

Melinda Mandell Interior Design | Melinda Mandell, ASID

This Los Altos Hills California ranch home features a crisp, dramatic, contemporary look for clients that love honest, organic materials. Beautiful natural wood grain and stunning natural stone take center stage in the beautiful residence.

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN

Harrell Design + Build | Barb Wingo, ASID Allied

When a family of five sought to modernize their outdated kitchen and align its aesthetics with the rest of their remodeled home, the designer worked closely with them to give it a modern farmhouse update that optimizes space for family gatherings, improves functionality, enhances overall appeal and seamlessly harmonizes the kitchen with the rest of their home’s design.

Photography Megan Bayley Photography

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM

Design Theory Interiors of California | Jamie Kern, ASID

The true focal point of this modern primary bathroom, the expansive double steam shower boasts an oversized bench for relaxing in the warm mist, while the level pebble stones on the floor add a touch of organic elegance. The skylights and rich materials in this space create an air of true luxury reminiscent of an outdoor Bali experience.

Photography Thomas Kuoh

SILVER Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL RESIDENCE OVER 3,000 SQ FT

Staprans Design | Lisa Staprans, ASID Allied; Anny Wong

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe, a place of soulful quietude was created. Although this renovation project presented challenges, the design team’s close collaboration with the homeowners, builders and local artisans was the key to creating a home that is highly personal and truly inspiring.

Photography Paul Dyer

SILVER Award Winner

Design Matters | Julie Cavanaugh, ASID

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM

The homeowner’s desire for a uniquely sophisticated retreat was the inspiration for this elegant en-suite bathroom. Reimagining the space with a fresh layout and design perspective and incredible new materials, the designer was able to keep the entire renovation within the home’s original footprint. The result is the client’s modernist dream bathroom in black and lilac.

Photography Bernardo Grijalva

BRONZE Award Winner

EMERGING PROFESSIONAL / RESIDENTIAL

Eryka G Design | Eryka Glover, ASID Allied

What defines great design? El·e·vate: To lift up or make higher. As both homeowners were over 6 feet tall, the designer raised the cabinets in the home to 40 inches to accommodate their height, provide ergonomic comfort and maximize the use of space. A neutral color palette was chosen to boost the design elements and raise the spirits of those who create memories there.

Photography Eryka Glover

BRONZE Award Winner

BEST USE OF PRODUCT / INDUSTRY PARTNER ONLY

Greenberg Design Gallery | Jennifer Federico, ASID Affiliate

Updating a showroom requires a particular design talent. Knowing that this showroom would house more than 65 premium home products, the designer created spaces which resemble the kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms and dining areas found in a home. Fully outfitted and decorated, each area offers clear visualization of how these design elements can be integrated and allowed to shine.

Photography Boaz Meiri

BRONZE Award Winner

BRONZE Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL KITCHEN

The DVNK | Divya Vijayanandakumar, ASID Allied

This magazine-worthy kitchen was reimagined with an island that enhances the home’s flow and inspires the homeowners’ love for cooking and entertaining. Visually and physically connected to the family room, this innovative kitchen offers efficient organization, space for the kids to enjoy a meal or do homework and room to host large groups for holidays and family celebrations.

Photography Mark Pinkerton

JTM Interiors | Janet T. Marena, ASID

Photography Agnieszka Jakubowicz

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL SINGULAR SPACE

The designer transformed this living room into a space brimming with style, ease and natural light. A comfortable sofa and swivel chairs allow for relaxation, while minimal furnishings on the other side of the space promote imaginative play. Custom cabinetry provides the family with ample storage, as the one-of-a-kind fireplace and arts-framed TV complete the scene.

BRONZE Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL A TRADITIONAL / TRANSITIONAL SINGULAR SPACE

Design Matters | Julie Cavanaugh, ASID

When the homeowners described a living space that was moody, relevant and suitable for entertaining, the designer got to work creating a textural, layered, luxury lounge. Reminiscent of a gentleman’s club from years gone by, this room’s rich velvets, warm woods and sumptuous leathers create an air of inviting elegance where both guests and cocktails can be mixed in high style.

Photography Bernardo Grijalva

BRONZE Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY RESIDENCE OVER 3,000 SQ FT

Alison Whittaker Design, Inc. | Alison Whittaker, ASID Allied

When the clients decided to downsize from a large inland property to a smaller one on the coast, the designer created a home with a minimalist look and feel that focuses on the Pacific views. The use of smaller-scale furnishings provides flexibility that suits the family’s entertaining needs in this exciting next chapter.

Photography Christophe Testi

BRONZE Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY BATHROOM

Go North Design Studio | Lele Yu, ASID

The combined bathroom/laundry room in this ADU was created for grandparents who travel from overseas to visit their children and grandchildren. With a design that is inspired by the Ancient Greek word “Petrichor”—the pleasant earthy scent produced when rain falls on dry soil—this spa-inspired space provides peace and relaxation for the beloved grandparents when they are far from home.

Photography Xun Shi

BRONZE Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY RESIDENCE OVER 3,000 SQ FT

Design Matters | Julie Cavanaugh, ASID

When this contemporary Palo Alto masterpiece was purchased, the designer got to work creating an updated interior that is not only beautiful and functional but is a cohesive reflection of the clients’ wants, needs and style. Freshly reimagined, curated and tailored, the design also highlights the home’s incredible architecture.

Photography R. Brad Knipstein

BRONZE Award Winner

RESIDENTIAL B MODERN / CONTEMPORARY SINGULAR SPACE

DekoRati Interiors | Rati Mishra, ASID Associate

Inspired by a modern aesthetic, this Tulare living/music room and entry stairway embodies contemporary sophistication. Infusing minimalist furnishings with bold accents—like the staircase wallpaper—the designer crafted an exciting space, where a custom fireplace reflects the essence of modern living and a sculptural staircase enhances the home’s style and spatial flow.

Photography Joshua Bernard

the PERFECT FINISH

BURLINGAME | SAN JOSE | BERKELEY | DUBLIN
Rare & exotic stone, luxury porcelain & handmade tile
INTERIOR DESIGN: JEFFREY NEVE | PHOTOGRAPHY: BRAD KNIPSTEIN
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

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

For business or pleasure, a bookmatched onyx bar adds fire to your venue.

ODIN Oakland Restaurant designed by Jon de la Cruz, DLC-ID |
Jose Manuel Alorda Photography
Clockwise from top left: Jacqueline Faucet
Photography: Jessica Fix Photography
Interiors: Design by Kris Stensland

ONES TO WATCH

THE CREATIVE MINDS REIMAGINING THE FUTURE

From architecture to interior design to building, remodeling, manufacturing and beyond, innovators with groundbreaking ideas, concepts and ways of working breathe new life into their projects as they redefine excellence for their clients and industries.

TURN THE PAGE TO MEET THESE EXCEPTIONAL VISIONARIES.

Heaton and Co

Carmel Design Center

831.724.7000 | carmeldesigncenter.com | carmeldesigncenter

It’s a rare and wonderful thing when a design professional has the expertise and understanding to turn dreams into life-changing environments. “I’ve worked in the design and construction industry building custom homes for my clients and developments for myself since 2005,” says Chris Adamski. As the Founder of Carmel Design Center, he leads a highly accomplished team that, “collaborates with clients to realize their dreams and visions.” Celebrated as the leading source of curated luxury brands for architects, builders, interior designers and homeowners, Carmel Design Center is the consummate partner when undertaking a new build or renovation. At the heart of it all is Adamski’s passion for his work. “I love what I do and the people I do it with,” he shares. “The truest metrics of my success are the clients who come back to us time and time again to create their dream homes.”

Watch + Learn

• Did you always want to work in the design-build industry? After graduating from college, I took a job in the finance industry, but quickly realized that I wanted to see real, tangible things being built, so I decided to follow my dreams and I’ve never looked back.

• How does your work stand out? While our work can best be described as organic modern, what makes it most unique is how we tailor our designs to the wants and needs of our clients and to each home’s specific site and locale.

• What piece of advice would you share with someone who’s just starting out? The best way to learn is through doing and being in close proximity to those whose work you most admire.

• Share what motivates you most. Helping to build and create the best homes possible. There is nothing like driving past a prior project and having a swell of pride for a job well done.

Top + Bottom This stylish, state-of-theart kitchen boasts Harmoni cabinetry, Visual Comfort lighting, Calacatta marble surfaces, Waterworks hardware, a Galley Workstation sink and faucet, Arcadia Custom windows and appliances by Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.

Photography Wayne Capili; Headshot by Scott Faverty
CHRIS ADAMSKI, FOUNDER

Casa Cita Rugs

408.314.1942 | crsinteriordesign.com | crs.design.studio

It’s always a thrill when a passion project takes flight. Cita Rojas-Sila, Principal and Founder of CRS Design Studio, is proud to have launched her line of Casa Cita Rugs. She says, “The inspiration and heart behind my design studio and Casa Cita Rugs comes from a deep commitment to making our industry more accessible and inclusive for people of color. I’m passionate about delivering beautiful projects. Casa Cita Rugs is a collection of heritage-inspired, meticulously crafted rugs.” Cita created her business after years of work at prominent design firms. She’s also excited to share her insights through mentorship while leading her own firm. “As a woman of color in the industry, I bring a unique perspective,” she adds. “This field remains very homogenous. I am committed to inclusion in the world of design and address it through my role as an advisor to the board at my local ASID chapter and in my work.”

CITA ROJAS-SILA, PRINCIPAL

Newly branching out on her own, Cita is proud of the big steps her company is already taking. She says, “I’m incredibly proud of what Casa Cita Rugs has accomplished since its birth in January 2024. Our collaboration with Evars Collective featured our debut rug, ‘Ollin,’ in the foyer of the 2024 San Francisco Decorator Showcase House.”

I ADVOCATE FOR APPROACHABLE LUXURY. THE SPACES I CREATE EXUDE SUBTLE ELEGANCE.”

Staying Strong

When guiding the next generation of creatives and entrepreneurs, Cita shares her insights. “Stay focused on your goals,” she says. “Early experiences always lay the groundwork for a long career and every task—no matter how small— imparts valuable lessons.”

Top The Casa Cita ‘Katari Era’ rug in white and gray. Made from silk and wool; 100 knots. Left Casa Cita’s ‘Tikal’ rung. 100-percent silk; 100 knots. Center An eye-catching artist’s rendering of Casa Cita’s ‘Xochi’ rug. Right The Casa Cita ‘Kaan’ rug. Made from carved New Zealand wool; 100 knots.
Photography Top, Left, Right + Headshot Peter Lyons

Cokas Diko Home

707.568.4044 | cokasdiko.com | cokasdikohome

Every store needs at least one thing that makes them unique and brings in customers. Cokas Diko Home not only features an incredible selection of goods that sets them apart, but also can support those searching for near-instant gratification. Co-Owners Patrick Mutt and Ramon Espinoza explain: “The fact that our customers can ‘take it home today’ gives us an advantage. We have a wide selection of in-stock sofas, rugs, case goods, lighting and accessories. It’s not uncommon for a client to come in and purchase four or five rooms of furniture and have us deliver it the next day.” With over 26 years in business, the duo still excitedly looks forward to the future. Patrick says, “In 2025, we will team up with LA-based furniture designer Kim Salmela and Crypton Home Fabric. We plan to raise the bar for beautifully crafted American-made upholstery.” Ramon adds, “Our showroom is a true destination!”

RAMON ESPINOZA AND PATRICK MUTT, CO-OWNERS
PRIORITIZING A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FOR EVERY CUSTOMER MAKES OUR STORE SUCCESSFUL.”

Core Four

The team has four standard questions that they always ask potential clients:

• What is your budget? You are wasting everyone’s time if you don’t know how much someone is willing to spend—or, more importantly, not spend.

• What is your timeline? Is what they are hoping to achieve realistic?

• Do you want to work with our in-stock product or customize it? This reinforces the first two questions regarding budget and timeline.

• Are you familiar with our product? Have you been to our showroom or visited our website? Potential clients need to know the aesthetic and price point before any conversation can take place.

Top Kim Salmela for Norwalk Prescott Chair covered in Crypton Home West Village performance fabric.

Heaton and Co

415.596.1712 | heatonandco.com | heatonandco

The joy of a complex situation in design is the satisfaction of finding a solution. Courtney Heaton, Owner and Founder of Heaton and Co, enthuses, “There are always challenges and fortunately I love a puzzle!” With over 20 years of experience both as a sole proprietor and partner, she struck out on her own in January 2024 with her new brand. Courtney hopes to improve the client experience through simplicity and a streamlined process. With three teenage daughters, she understands clients have busy lives and aspires to simplify things. Her firm starts the journey with a discovery call, followed by an in-person meeting and a clear, set fee proposal—ensuring transparency and ease from the beginning. It is clear that Courtney is all about simplicity and innovation. And the look? She says, “Our aesthetic is a blend of sophistication and comfort— we are all about improving lives through great design.”

Measuring Success

For Courtney, success is hearing from clients that their home’s design has positively transformed their lives. She says, “Whether it means a family is spending more time together or hosting more gatherings—or simply enjoying their home more when alone—these testimonials are the true reward and the reason that I love what I do.”

WE WANT TO SIMPLIFY AND ENHANCE THE DESIGN PROCESS, MAKING IT MORE ACCESSIBLE.”

Off The Clock

When she’s not working, Courtney loves to spend time with family and friends. She shares, “I enjoy Tex Mex and a good margarita, country music, and travel—especially when it includes some flea market shopping!”

Top A dining room in Healdsburg, CA is a study in contrasts, featuring a unique mix of furniture and patterns. Left Traditional floral print wallpaper gives this Mill Valley bedroom a classic look. Center A wash of neutrals with pops of pastel give this living room a clean and serene feel. Right This living room in San Francisco welcomes conversation in a comfortable and relaxing space.
Photography Top by Vivian Johnson; Left by Gillian Walsworth; Center by Strictly Natural Light; Right by Thomas Kuoh Photography; Headshot by Sophia Studio

Lucy McCormick Interior Design

Heart Of Design

“I usually start by creating an authentic story about the client and the project environment,” McCormick says. “I typically request a few instantaneous inspiration images and ask lots of questions. This is my starting point for developing the project’s conceptual look and feel. Once established, it becomes the core and a constant reference as we work through the design phases to finalize documentation.”

Dual Goals

Asked to share more detail about her process and ethos, McCormick says, “I like approaching a project by thinking big, designing holistically and acting collaboratively. Developing a comprehensive concept with the client and providing a preliminary budget at the onset is the key to success. I like to create thoughtful and timeless interiors that focus on detail while adhering to budgets.”

When someone enters a field from a parallel profession, it often results in an expert who brings a uniquely effective perspective to their work. Just ask designer Lucy McCormick. “I worked in real estate development for several years before pursuing interior design, and it exposed me to many business and construction experiences that are immensely valuable to me today,” she shares. “I feel that I have a unique understanding of both sides of this work: the creative and the analytical—budgets, logistics, etc.” Indeed, her firm’s portfolio of stunning projects for repeat clients makes the success of her multifaceted outlook clear. In a similarly diverse vein, she’s not one to put all her eggs in a single style basket, either. “I don’t apply a defined style to a project,” she says. “Instead, I adapt to each brief to create bespoke schemes.”

Far left This light and bright Aspen home underwent a full remodel. Top right Hospitality projects are part of the LMD portfolio too, and this design for Aziza in San Francisco is gorgeous. Bottom right Moody in the best way, this bar area brings the depth and drama.

Photography Far left by Brandon Huttenlocher; Top right by Tammy Horton; Bottom right by Bess Friday; Headshot by Kendal Marie Photography
LUCY MCCORMICK, OWNER AND FOUNDER

ORR Design Office

925.587.4200 | 415.842.8988 | orrdreamhouse.com

Since 1996, the ORR Design Office’s award-winning and detailed design approach has transformed their clients’ lives and helped make dreams come true. Creative zealot and firm President Gary Orr says, “It’s deeply rewarding for our team to design beautiful one-of-a-kind cohesive places that are timeless and functional while being sensitive to timelines and budgets. What sets us apart is that we are architects and landscape architects as well as interior designers. We can conceptualize all parts of a project’s overall design into a perfectly connected place where interiors, building, site and swimming pool all fuse together seamlessly.” When quizzed about their client-centric approach, Gary adds, “We begin every project by asking our clients detailed questions, we listen deeply and encourage them to remain open to inspired outcomes that could fundamentally elevate their lives and exceed their expectations.”

THE DESIGN OF THE HOME, INTERIORS AND LANDSCAPE IS A SINGLE COHESIVE VISION.”

Whole-Vision Design

“We trademarked our comprehensive design process, which we call WHOLE-VISION™ design,” Gary says. “We plan and extend a design idea through every element, every space and every detail to amplify the aesthetic and functional character of a project so that everything is cohesive and unified. We visualize a specific emotional reaction—how the client will feel in a certain spot. It’s magical!”

Top This great room features barefoot-approved, colored concrete floors that can become toasty warm from internal hydronic heating. The finish of the glass doors and window frames matches the color of the oak tree leaves beyond. Far left Dramatic, yet simple, the plaster-veneered fireplace with terracotta top flue cover makes a bold statement in this great room, which feels at once historic and modern. Left A wisteriacovered modern trellis extends from the front entry of this home like a “landscape handshake.”

GARY ORR, CREATIVE ZEALOT AND VISIONARY DESIGNER

At ORR Design, we loved using our exclusive WHOLE-VISION TM design process to realize our clients’ bold dreams by fusing a tiny 1/2 acre vineyard, old traditions, and modern forms into an extraordinary fusion of home, interior, and landscape design.

WHAT’S YOUR BOLD DREAM?

QPS Inc General Contractors

925.387.8076 | qps.contractors | qps.inc

It’s impossible to quantify how many home builders have been inspired by This Old House The show first premiered on PBS in 1979, and there are legions of contractors now in the field who grew up watching it. That’s true for Alfredo Henriquez, CEO of QPS General Contractors, who says, “That show sparked my interest in general contracting. Since then, I have followed many architects, contractors and developers to learn from them and continue to love this business.” With nearly a decade in the industry, the QPS team is proud of their output. “We have built a legacy of honesty, skilled craftsmanship and equity,” says Henriquez. “Whether doing a remodel or whole-house build, we always put our best foot forward.” The team’s goal is that clients always feel QPS did an incredible job. “We aim to grow with every project,” Henriquez says. “We show up every day with enthusiasm and a winning attitude!”

ALFREDO J. HENRIQUEZ, CEO AND PRESIDENT
WE HAVE HIGH STANDARDS AND OUR TEAM TAKES PRIDE IN OUR COMMITMENT TO QUALITY.”

Open Minds

While he built years of experience as a general contractor, Henriquez says his most beneficial strength today is his ability to communicate with clients. “On top of my construction expertise, the best thing that I can do is attentively listen to client needs and worries— and then give my input. Good communication both ways throughout a project is essential.”

Powerful Team

When considering the future, Henriquez believes in investing in his staff. He explains, “When running a business, you really need a strong team. I love to grow our group. As my company improves and develops, so does my team.”

Top This chic bathroom space has custom tile, a soaking tub and enclosed shower. Designed by Hannah Mitchell Interiors.

Photography Daniel Blue Photography

925.387.8076 | qps.contractors | qps.inc

Schwartz and Architecture

415.550.0430 | saasf.com | schwartzandarchitecture

At first, joint degrees in architecture and public policy may seem unexpected. But for Neal Schwartz, FAIA, Founder and Principal of S^A | Schwartz and Architecture, this unique combination makes perfect sense. He forged this path years ago as the first to establish what is now a vibrant program between the Kennedy School of Government and the Harvard Design School. This combined expertise—plus years of teaching as a professor of architecture at the California College of the Arts—defines his architecture and interior design studio. Today, the firm is known for “a commitment to creative excellence, community and collaboration—and rigorous management of the design process from concept to construction.” With this holistic vision as a foundation, Schwartz says, “While we are always moving forward, we also chart our own course rather than follow passing stylistic trends.”

WE ASPIRE TO PRODUCE WORK OF UNCOMMON CLARITY, ECONOMY AND GRACE.”

Getting Started

Schwartz outlines his typical workflow when taking on a new project.

• First, we listen—to the client, to the site, to the problems at hand.

• Next, we research deeply until we feel we truly understand the core of the design problem and thus the core of the design solution.

• Then we draw—preferably with a new roll of trace paper, a fresh Pentel Sign Pen and a favorite playlist.

Motivating Factor

This one is clear. Schwartz says, “Our sole motivation is to produce work of the highest quality and with long-term value to our clients and the communities around us.” A lasting legacy.

Top A bridge becomes a moment of surprise in the team’s Modal Home, connecting the public and private zones across two courtyards. Left The warmth of natural light and materials is at the foundation of Schwartz and Architecture’s approach. Right A concrete acoustic wall bathed in natural light anchors the home and quiets a noisy urban site.
Photography Bruce Damonte; Headshot Courtesy of S^A
NEAL SCHWARTZ, FAIA, FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL

TBS Design Gallery

650.460.7777 | tbsdesigngallery.com | tbsdesigngallery

Hard work, intelligence, and passion are the fundamental ingredients of great design. “Our story is one of resilience and determination,” says Mamuka Grigolia, CEO of TBS Design Gallery. “Immigrating to the U.S. from the country of Georgia 20 years ago, my wife Liana and I are proof that the American Dream is achievable.” Starting from the ground up, Grigolia founded a designbuild firm in 2007, and 10 years later, launched TBS as his second creative venture. “This company is focused on providing custom solutions to complex design challenges,” Grigolia shares. “By combining our background in entrepreneurship with our love for cutting-edge, client-centered design, we provide unique, design-driven products that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior, while building strong, collaborative relationships with the homeowners and design professionals we are proud to serve.”

OUR PRINCIPLES ARE REPRESENTED IN OUR NAME, TENACITY, BENEVOLENCE AND SATISFACTION.”

Building A Legacy

• Share a professional highlight. One professional highlight has been the journey of entrepreneurship itself, which involves taking risks and not letting the fear of the unknown hold me back. Building a successful business in a new country is something I’m deeply proud of.

• How does your work stand out? From our relationships with business partners and clients to the way we curate our design offerings, we approach each person and project with the warmth of Georgian hospitality, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood.

• What’s on the horizon? Every day provides a new opportunity to improve and grow. Looking ahead, I plan to expand our influence by providing even more tailored solutions and bespoke design elements to our clients.

Top This luxe living room features a floor-to-ceiling design by Laurameroni. Crafted in Canaletto walnut and adorned with iconic Maxima carving, the Day System is paired with a bespoke marble niche complete with custom shelves.
Left Enhanced with liquid metal bronze Juta wall paneling, this refined dining room
Margaret chairs and Swirl and Level lamps. Right

Timeless Elegance, Tailored for Visionary Creatives

Discover Laurameroni Design Collection at TBS Design Gallery, where innovation meets master craftsmanship. Architects and designers are invited to explore our curated selection of sophisticated, bespoke pieces.

Timeline Design+Build

650.750.8080 | tldesign.net | timeline_design_build

What does a home design and build firm most want to hear from a client when a project is done? Matthew Harrigan, Founder of Timeline Design+Build, has heard on countless occasions, “It just feels like home.” Harrigan began his career as a carpenter and built many projects himself. That gave him a deep understanding of the construction process from the ground up. When launching his firm in 1990, Harrigan was determined to approach construction with “a level of detail and upfront planning that was uncommon among builders at the time.” He explains, “A significant aspect of our process at Timeline Design+Build is thorough pre-planning. We focus on minimizing disruptions, delays and disappointments, ensuring a smoother experience for our clients.” Today, his firm specializes in large-scale custom homes within a design-build framework. Harrigan says, “We handle massive projects and deliver them with exceptional quality.”

MATTHEW HARRIGAN, FOUNDER WE CREATE HIGH-END CUSTOM HOMES EXECUTED WITH AN INCREDIBLE ATTENTION TO DETAIL.”

Building Experiences

“I’ve personally designed interiors and crafted architectural plans for homes, then taken those designs from concept to reality in the construction process,” Harrigan says. “With hands-on involvement in every aspect of designing and building, I have a deep understanding of each aspect that goes into creating a home, from initial design to final build.”

Sage Advice

Harrigan shares wise words for the ambitious. He says, “It’s crucial to have a clear objective and remain committed to it daily. If your goals and plans aren’t well-defined and carefully executed, the results will reflect that.”

Architecture: Timothy Chappelle and Casey Cramer, Arcanum Architecture Interior Design: Jennifer Robin, Jennifer Robin Interiors Home Builder: Spencer Curry, Behrens-Curry Homes Landscape Architecture: John Merten, Studio Green

In Balance

Dramatic gestures meet playful color inside an elegant contemporary estate overlooking the East Bay.

WRITTEN BY CHERYL MEYERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TREVOR TONDRO/OTTO STYLING BY YEDDA MORRISON

A bespoke Bocci light fixture composed of 150 handblown glass orbs in the clients’ favorite colors hangs from the great room’s 20-foot-tall ceiling. Although it’s always a focal point, designer Jennifer Robin notes it’s “particularly magical” at night. The Statsky Design reclaimed wood table is surrounded by Atelier Purcell dining chairs.

On the morning of her first interview with the owners of this modern Atherton abode, interior designer Jennifer Robin wanted to try something different. Bypassing her largely neutral work clothes, she reached for an emerald-green velvet blazer. The decision proved fortuitous: “The client commented on the jacket first thing,” she says. “She ended up ordering one for herself and hiring me. Our shared love for this color became an inside joke, and it’s a hue we utilized throughout the home.”

The clients’ previous residences had leaned heavily into bold colors and prints. But the cleanlined estate they were building from the ground up with architect Timothy Chappelle called for a different approach. “My clients love color, pattern and whimsy. This presented me with the challenge of incorporating these preferences in a thoughtful and restrained manner that lives in harmony with the architecture,” Robin says. “On the flip side, if the interiors were too modern and subdued, there was the risk of it becoming a sterile, commercialfeeling home. We had to strike the perfect balance.”

From the start, the dwelling was designed to make a powerful statement. Chappelle, who was assisted by project manager Casey Cramer, says the owners envisioned their future residence as a retreat where they could effortlessly host large parties and their now-grown children when they visit—something like a personal resort. To create that feeling, the architects and general contractor Spencer Curry employed techniques more often used in a luxury hotel than in a private home. Here, meticulous engineering meets materials such as board-formed concrete, horizontal slabs of limestone veneer and industrial steel posts that remain exposed—all flowing seamlessly from the exterior to the interior. “This is a unique commercial-grade concrete-and-steel building that required a level of coordination by the contractor and design team not common on residential projects,” Chappelle notes.

The best resorts delight visitors with striking features, and this home has those sorts of captivating elements in spades. “They wanted lots of glass and floor-to-ceiling door systems that slide open to take in the big views,” the architect

says. “But they were also very into the idea of more unique, fun-loving touches.” Thus, every space has an architectural flourish. Take the voluminous, two-story great room, where a largescale concrete fireplace surround joins a dramatic stone-and-steel staircase topped by a floating glass bridge. And with the push of a button, the space’s glass wall system opens to a terraced pool deck designed by landscape architect John Merten overlooking unobstructed views of Palo Alto and the East Bay. Intuitively, Robin knew this room couldn’t withstand an overdose of pattern and that it required furniture with substance. “I wanted heavy, comfortable furnishings with amazing texture,” she says. “The kind of curated pieces that would draw people in.”

Expertly threading the needle, Robin paired playful acrylic-and-emerald-shearling ottomans with a slender bronze table and a bulbous channel-tufted swivel chair. Deep-seated velvet sofas mimic the color of the sky views, while accent tables in marble, walnut and reclaimed wood have a grounding effect. The large-scale geometric Moroccan rug that flows underfoot was inspired by the lines of the scaffolding that surrounded the dwelling during construction. But it’s the dining room chandelier on the other side of the space that redefines the phrase “jawdropping.” The custom light fixture features 150 handblown glass balls in the client’s favorite colors—green, blue, pink and yellow. “It’s an interactive sculpture as you walk throughout the home, inside and out,” the designer says. “The piece is the central ‘wow’ moment that sets the playful mood and palette.”

Elsewhere, the designer opted for bold shapes and textures instead of color. In the kitchen, Robin selected a trio of quirky, asymmetric light fixtures above the island and created mesh-front metal cabinets with open backs that allow the veining of the marble backsplash to show through. An oversize half-circle sofa forms a conversation space in the lower-level lounge, and in the primary bedroom, wood paneling frames a channelupholstered fabric headboard over 7 feet tall.

But the house isn’t all about the drama. “We strove for modern interiors that reflect the fun and loving family that resides within,” Robin says. “It’s grand, but the clients are comfortable and happy in this home, even when it’s just the two of them.”

Oversize fixtures from Archetype hang over the walnut-and-riftsawn-oak kitchen island. Pieces of shell and green aggregate in the Concreteworks countertops pick up the green veining in the backsplash from Da Vinci Marble.
The stools are by Berman Rosetti.
Ambrozia chairs and Fern benches pull up a table refinished by Statsky Design in the family dining area. In the background, the terraced deck by landscape architect John Merten features a resort-worthy pool and hot tub.
Above: Architect Timothy Chappelle created a glass walkway between the primary suite and the bedroom wing that allows sunshine to stream down through the skylight to the first floor. Above is a ceiling of clear western red cedar.
Opposite: Wood-and-steel stair steps are mounted between slender metal pickets and a limestone veneer wall sourced from Peninsula Building Materials Co. Used on both the interior and exterior, the buff-colored stone helps blur the lines between inside and out. The Jorge Zalszupin bench is from Espasso.
For the primary suite, the homeowners envisioned a relaxing retreat in a calm palette. Built by Matthew Chase Woodworks, the bed features a pop-up television in the footboard and C&C Milano fabric on the channel-tufted headboard. The pendant lights are by Apparatus, and the neutral striped rug is by Erden.
“I wanted heavy, comfortable furnishings with amazing texture. The kind of curated pieces that would draw people in.”
–JENNIFER ROBIN
Above: Plastered walls and a Calacatta Oro-clad soaking tub with a Fantini faucet placed atop an oak-and-marble pedestal set a serene tone in the primary bathroom. Horizontal cedar slats outside the window provide ample privacy.
Opposite: A mix of natural materials distinguish the homeowners’ bathroom. The vanity, topped with a statement piece of Calacatta Oro marble from Da Vinci Marble, sits on dark stone tile and against light wood paneling. Allied Maker sconces top a custom mirror with hidden lights and an integrated television.
The lower-level lounge’s bar sports a backsplash and waterfall island made with Arabescato marble from Da Vinci Marble, plus custom walnut-and-metal shelves.
The barstools are by (wh)Ore Haüs Studios, and the brass light fixtures are by Thomas Hayes Studio.
Also found in the lower-level lounge is a curvy Ochre sofa customized with a blue-striped trim. Extra seating comes courtesy of a trio of Nella Vetrina stools. The Christian Woo coffee table is from The Future Perfect, and the rug is by Mark Nelson Designs.
“My clients love color, pattern and whimsy. This presented me with the challenge of incorporating these preferences in a thoughtful and restrained manner that lives in harmony with the architecture.”
–JENNIFER ROBIN
Interior Design: Kristen Peña, Kristen Peña Interiors Home Builder: Mark de Bibo, De Bibo General Contractors

Forest Idyll

Just a few miles from the heart of Silicon Valley, a designer creates a mountain-like retreat for a tech industry client.

BY

WRITTEN
MAILE PINGEL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MERKL | STYLING BY YEDDA MORRISON
Interior designer Kristen Peña brought new life to this 1970s home by bringing in a mix of contemporary and midcentury pieces. Just behind the living room’s B&B Italia sofa is a painting by Myles Bennett. The rug is by Safar Rugs.

This house is away from the noise of the Bay Area,” describes interior designer Kristen Peña. Tucked into a redwood grove near one of San Mateo County’s many open space preserves, the residence, a 1970s ranch-style dwelling, provides the owner a true retreat in which to cook, read and relax, with myriad hiking trails at his doorstep. “He wanted a cozy home that reflects his appreciation of great furnishings and art, set against the backdrop of his true love: nature,” the designer notes.

“It almost has a Lake Tahoe feel,” Peña continues of the wood-accented residence. Though it had been well-maintained, it “needed a little love,” she adds. Without changing its footprint, Peña, along with senior designer Anya Daniels, junior designer Sofia Huibers and general contractor Mark de Bibo, updated the windows, doors and floors, and sanded and restored the ceiling beams. Then the fun part began. “We embraced plaids, rich velvets and dark leathers— materials that don’t often find their way into the California experience, but they made sense here,” Peña explains. “Woodside gets foggy, and there’s a quietness in that, so we went for a saturated, cozy feel, like you might find in the mountains.” To keep the rooms fresh, she opted for light walls and plenty of natural stone, like the kitchen’s oxbloodveined marble countertops. “We introduced shades of violet and maroon to create a striking contrast with the lush green outside,” she explains. “This client made brave commitments, and that’s part of what makes the home so striking.”

One of those notable features is the feeling of being immersed in the forest. “When you step down into the living room, it’s like walking right into the woods,” the designer explains. And while she kept the focus on the views, the interior details don’t just fade into the background. Take the travertine of the fireplace wall that also lines the back of the adjacent bookcase. “A lot of our design work is less about

pattern and more about texture, so that stone really sets the tone for everything else you’ll see,” Peña says, noting the room’s tufted leather sofa and the chunky woven fabric of the side chair.

For the dining room, Peña designed a large, round walnut table that would lend itself to conversational dinners. “He loves to cook and host family, so it creates a place where everyone can gather and talk,” she says. But when guests are gone, there are private spaces to enjoy, too, like the moody office, where a purple-brown limewash on the walls creates a softness in keeping with the room’s velvet-upholstered lounge chair. “Tech people spend a lot of time working, so why not make the office cozy?” she posits. In his bedroom, a blue-and-green palette imparts an almost vintage feel. There, Peña designed a wood-slat headboard wall (“It was so beautifully executed by Mark,” she notes) for textural interest but to also reference the linear nature of the redwood forest. “We didn’t do any draperies, because it was all about waking up to the trees,” she explains. The plaid-upholstered headboard also features small, inset nightstands for “less visual noise.”

While designing this home was a delight for Peña, one of the most enjoyable aspects was helping her client establish an unconventional art collection, which they did with the advice of Todd Hosfelt of Hosfelt Gallery in San Francisco. The first piece her client selected was a 1950s painting by Jess. “It’s framed in velvet, which is really sexy, and he loved it, so we placed it on the dining room wall where he could see it while cooking.” Other key works include a thread piece by Emil Lukas and an LED work by Jim Campbell.

“We’ve created an environment that embodies a masculine yet organic aesthetic, and every element reflects a harmonious relationship with nature and the client’s deep connection to the forest,” the designer says. “In many California homes, people want it to feel like summer all the time, but this place feels like fall or winter, and that’s brought a wonderful nesting component to the house.”

Above: Sheepskin-upholstered counter stools by Thomas Hayes Studio line the kitchen island. Aged-brass Apparatus pendants hanging over the Calacatta Viola marble countertop from Da Vinci Marble coordinate with the Newport Brass faucet.
Opposite: A Wolf range and hood anchor one wall of the kitchen. Crafted by Shada Build & Design, the stained white oak cabinetry is accented with Ashley Norton hardware. The small dome light fixture is by Apparatus.
Circle chairs by Overgaard & Dyrman surround a table by PeñaMade. The brass-and-walnut chandelier overhead is by Allied Maker. Above the Yucca Stuff credenza is a painting by Jess.
“This client made brave commitments, and that’s part of what makes the home so striking.”
–KRISTEN PEÑA
Above: In a corner of the home office, Peña paired a rust-colored De La Espada armchair with a side table by Rose Tarlow Melrose House. The artwork by Jim Campbell hangs on a wall limewashed in Benjamin Moore’s Fresco Urbain.
Left: Above the De La Espada desk and Sandra Jordan Prima Alpaca-upholstered Coup Studio chair is a piece by Bruce Conner. The sconces are Allied Maker, the plaid drapery fabric is by Sanderson and the rug is by Marc Phillips.
Above: Breccia Capraia marble from Da Vinci Marble on the primary bathroom’s wainscoting and countertops is complemented by Inax shower tile from SpecCeramics and Ann Sacks floor tile.
The tub is Victoria + Albert, and the fittings are Gessi.
Opposite: The primary bedroom’s headboard, which features a Rogers & Goffigon plaid, and built-in nightstands were crafted by Hardesty Dwyer & Co. Danny Kaplan for In Common With pendants illuminate a Rosemary Hallgarten rug. On the wall is artwork by Emil Lukas.

BETWEEN TWO WORLDS

Yvonne Mouser’s work straddles—and blurs—the line between artistic and functional to achieve a kind of poetry.

WRITTEN BY LAUREN GALLOW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN LOKEN

Yvonne Mouser describes herself as a tinkerer. The Oakland-based maker toggles between art and design, fabricating objects ranging from the straightforwardly functional, such as chairs and dining tables, to the multidimensional artistic, like her sculptures and curated interactive events. No matter the medium, her process inevitably involves some level of fiddling around. “I’m interested in the ways things come together and am constantly looking for new solutions to systems of construction,” Mouser explains.

Having studied sculpture at Texas Christian University, Mouser shifted her focus toward the functional, moving to the Bay Area in 2003 to study furniture design at the California College of the Arts. “I liked the CCA program because it had one foot in fine art and the other foot in design,” says Mouser, who continues to straddle both worlds in her work today.

Mouser’s deceptively simple pieces often begin with a single directive, either from a client commission or from her many lists of thoughts to explore. “I like to read, both fiction and nonfiction, so I use that as a way to open up an idea and go down the rabbit hole,” she says. Lately, those ideas have run the gamut from concepts around gravity and chaos theory, to exploring structures of cloud formations, to more humanistic qualities such as memory.

With her dual interests in the poetic and the scientific, it’s no surprise that Mouser’s pieces are difficult to categorize. For example, her Pyrophyte Chair both invites and rebuffs sitting. Crafted out of recycled plywood, Mouser charred the curved seat and back with fire, making the idea of sitting in the chair seem somewhat treacherous. “I love the duality of something being two different things at the same time,” Mouser reflects. “It just depends on the lens you’re looking through.”

Even with more functional commissions, such as an integrated floor-mounted beechwood shelving system and screen she is currently crafting for a Bay Area home, Mouser can’t help but inject an element of play. In this case, it is simply the undulating form the piece takes. For her, sculpture and function are two sides of the same creative coin.

As Mouser prepares for a solo showing with Municipal Bonds gallery at San Francisco’s 2025 Fog Design+Art fair, she is leaning into the stories her work wants to tell. “In the end,” she says, “the things I create are physical poetry.”

Yvonne Mouser crafts both functional objects and more artistic pieces, like her sculpture Hyper-Extension (opposite). Design experiments and a blocky work called Remnant are above her Hunker stool (left). Before building her pieces, Mouser sketches out her designs (below). Other works in her studio include Cellulose II (bottom, left) and Pyrophyte Chair (bottom, right).

PURPLE REIGN

Bold, plummy colors and large, curvaceous forms make a Bay Area town house extraordinary.

WRITTEN BY MARY JO BOWLING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN/TRUNK ARCHIVE STYLING BY ANITA SARSIDI

Architecture: Houman Sharif and William Wilson, MEMarchitecture

Interior Design: April Sheldon, April Sheldon Design

Home Builder: Jeffrey Woods, Black Mountain Construction

artwork: left, sherie’ franssen; center, john casado.
Artisans from Bill Amberg Studio hand-applied Edelman leather to the outer shell of the ribbon staircase designed by architect Houman Sharif; the inner layer is lacquered wood. Resting upon the herringbone-patterned floor by Hayasa Flooring Design is a bench by Anees Furniture & Design.

As designer April Sheldon watched four British craftsmen apply the 250 deep-mauve leather hides she’d hand selected to the exterior of a dramatic, curving staircase conceived by her project partner, architect Houman Sharif, she felt conflicting emotions. “It was a mixture of terror that it might fail and the feeling that, if it all worked out, this would be one of the best design moves I’d ever executed,” she remembers. But, after five days of intense work, when the crew stepped back, laid down their rollers and headed back to London, it became apparent the latter was true.

Sheldon describes the feature as a “work of art,” and, in a Bay Area residence that’s filled with grand gestures, it is undeniably the star. The rail is shaped something like a cyclone that starts with a tightly rolled newel post on the first floor and unspools in an expansive, elegant arc when it reaches the ceiling. Sharif designed the stair with a gray lacquered wood interior durable enough to use as a handrail that sits within the leather shell. The shape came to him when he initially toured the space with his clients. “When I first saw the residence, it was largely empty, just a box,” he says. “The volume was beautiful, but there was a straight run of stairs that hugged the windows. To me, the feature was improperly placed. I wanted to move the stairs away from the windows and make something completely different—the space called for flow and softness.”

Later, he had his own moments of design-related stress and, ultimately, exhilaration as he watched the five-ton metal-and-wood stair craned up nine stories and then carefully placed where it stands today. The new, character-rich staircase is now at the front door, where its shape defines the entry, an expression the architect underlined with a curved wall.

Gestures that deliver high impact with a velvet touch are employed throughout the once boxlike space. For instance, the design team, which included general contractor Jeffrey Woods, divided the living area into two spaces separated by a pair of floor-to-ceiling pivot doors that flank a

statement-making double-sided marble fireplace. On one side, a round rug and undulating sofa define a sophisticated, light-toned gathering space. But when the 11-foot-tall doors swing open, a cozy, color-saturated library is revealed. “Our clients are avid book people, and they wanted a place to read,” Sheldon says. “We worked to create a space where you feel enveloped. If you close the doors, you are surrounded by deep mauves and Tahitian reds.”

Beyond the living area and dining room (where another plummy shade appears on the chair upholstery) is a kitchen focused on art. The team deliberately kept all storage below the counters, making room for a biomorphic porcelain work by artist Maren Kloppmann that seems to swim across the wall like a loosely synchronized school of fish. The heavily veined marble underneath, with its almost wave-like pattern, is a supporting actor.

Near the top of the winding stair is a primary suite that draws upon the spirit of the locale for inspiration. In the homeowners’ bedroom, the neutral color palette becomes nuanced, referencing the many gray shades found in the sometimes-foggy landscape. In their bath, a verre eglomise screen—created by layering gold and silver leaf on the back of a sheet of glass—stands behind a shapely tub and is reminiscent of the urban view. “I have a library of images, and one of them is a photo showing city windows during sunset at that moment when the glass panes catch the sun’s last rays and seem to light up,” Sheldon says. “I tried to create that look in this screen, because this kind of view is just one of the many things that makes living in a place like this so enjoyable.”

In fact, the joy of city living is at the heart of this home’s experience. Located near the center of one of the area’s most charming neighborhoods, it is steps away from pleasant shops, bustling restaurants and scenic parks—yet its quietude seems to hold it gently above the cosmopolitan happenings outside the building’s door. “Being there reminds me of the Bay Area on a foggy morning,” Sheldon says. “Fog is as a part of this area as anything, and when it rolls in it brings a nature of silence and peaceful serenity.”

“BEING THERE REMINDS ME OF THE BAY AREA ON A FOGGY MORNING WHEN IT ROLLS IN IT BRINGS A NATURE OF SILENCE AND PEACEFUL SERENITY .”
–APRIL SHELDON
A cantilevered Calacatta Vagli marble countertop and metal cabinets at the kitchen island are paired with Holly Hunt’s Shadow stools. Under-counter storage makes way for Maren Kloppmann’s Helical Wave and a painting from Guy Diehl’s “Take-Out Only” series. The wall ovens are by Miele.
Perched atop a Kyle Bunting hide rug, Magni Home Collection chairs surround a Delcourt Collection table in the dining room. Quartz crystals stud Christopher Boots’ Prometheus I + II chandelier above. Ivano Redaelli’s Swing chair hangs in the background.
The primary bedroom’s custom bed is upholstered in a Larsen linen and sits against Gregorius Pineo’s Rake plaster composite wallcovering. A pair of Giopato & Coombes’ Softspot sconces make reading in bed a delight. The custom nightstand features quartered walnut and a lacquer finish.
“ THIS KIND OF VIEW IS JUST ONE OF THE MANY THINGS THAT MAKES LIVING IN A PLACE LIKE THIS SO ENJOYABLE .”
–APRIL SHELDON
Right: Designer April Sheldon worked with Villa Franca Studio to conceive the primary bath’s verre eglomise screen based on sunlight reflected in city windows. The BainUltra tub is paired with a Dornbracht filler.
Opposite: A Robern medicine cabinet hangs above a rift-sawn white oak vanity in the primary bathroom. Calacatta Lincoln marble slabs cover the walls, and Fretwork Calacatta tile by Walker Zanger adorns the floors.
Windy Rice

PORTFOLIO

Archetype Design Collective

Bespoke projects require bespoke solutions. Archetype Design Collective offers comprehensive in-house design, construction management and self-performed installation solutions to fulfill the most discerning of projects. “From conception through construction, please allow us to share our 50-year legacy of craftsmanship and integrity with you!” archetypedesigncollective.com | archetypedesigncollective

Florim

Florim is a one-stop shop for Italian tiles and slabs suitable for all applications, including floors, walls and countertops, both indoors and out. With unaltered technical performance, Florim’s porcelain reinterprets the veins of rare marbles, the rawness of concrete and even the rich appearance of hardwood. Visit their space in West Hollywood and experience superlative surfaces. usa.florim.com/los-angeles | 314.940.1355

San Francisco Design Center

SFDC’s beautifully curated showrooms represent 2,000 manufacturers, whose product lines are sourced locally and internationally. Discover the best in traditional and contemporary furniture, fabrics, lighting, kitchen and bath products, antiques, art, rugs, flooring, cabinetry and ceramic tile. sfdesigncenter.com | 415.490.5821

WWOO Concrete Outdoor Kitchen

Seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings while elevating outdoor living, WWOO outdoor kitchens enhance any landscape. Their versatile designs offer customizable options, ensuring the perfect fit for any aesthetic—from modern to rustic or somewhere in between—for a cohesive, stylish outdoor experience. Designer: Roy Altaras | Photographer: Gilad Radat wwoous.com | 310.648.8030

www.sossegodesign.com

Pitu Chaise Balanço and Zaha Side Tables by Aristeu Pires

50 YEARS OF NAPA VALLEY CABERNET

“ Caymus began in 1972 after Napa Valley prune farmers Charlie and Lorna Wagner pulled the trees and planted grape vines— Cabernet Sauvignon. Their goal was simple enough: to produce good wine from their farm’s special earth. Today our family remains in place at Caymus with two of my kids, Charlie and Jenny, working with me to share the day-to-day responsibilities. Since those early days, it has been a thrilling family experience to continue to make Caymus. We sincerely thank wine lovers who share in the wonder of wine and the many ways it enhances the experience of life.”

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