Completed October 2019 Second edition January 2020
The Interior Designs and Furniture Layouts
Starting an designing project, should it be commercial, hospitality or residential, is somehow like starting a coaching path with our Clients. The bond with a private Client, is very often even stronger, a basically ,as, as a Designer, we enter very much into the intimacy of our Clients. The very first step is to guide and listen to our Clients describing their dreams . Very few Clients are indecisive. Then, we start using our professional skills to develop the bases revealed by the Clients, to start sketching beyond their dream project.
The first primary layouts are focusing very much on what is called the back of the house, which is the heart of any project. Lets us define what we do mean: “ in residential work, the back of the house refers to those operations of the Residence that deal with housekeeping, food, and engineering, staff and which should seldom be felt by the occupants of the Residence.” (courtesy of Hospitalitycrossing.com). Those part of the drawings are coordinated with “Etiquette, Art de Vivre” rules and Feng Shui, to create the best flow for a perfect management of the Residence.
The circulation in such a Mansion is very similar of that of a Palace. The full intendance is hidden in behind the scene. It includes, the professional kitchen and laundry, which are dispatching their finished products to pantries and House Keeping rooms in all needed floors. Large provision are also made for storage, from the dry stores, through linen storage, to all the silver and precious items used for the receptions in a secured in a Silver Vault.
Landscape Layout
Basement Layout
Ground Floor Layout
First Floor Layout
Roof Floor Layout
The facades have been inspired by a very smooth lined of Moroccan style, mixed with Omani spirit and typically Omani wooden doors carved in solid Asian wood . The focus had been given to creating details which are both visually powerful in the day light , but can be greatly enhanced in the night by professionally applied light technics. Same technics are applied in the landscape, as we will see later. For this effects we worked with the London base internationally renowned company “ the Lighting Architects “.As a local reference, they are the brainchild behind the lighting of the opera of Muscat. The facades of the Guest’s Majlis retranspose in a modern declination the traditional lattice “mashrabieh”. In our proposal we kept the height of the ground floor of the Guest’s Majlis the same as in the Mansion. On the very original layouts , this space had only a total height of 2.80 meters, which is totally unacceptable for the main reception salon, which was totally rejected.
The facades have been inspired bysmooth a very smooth of Moroccan style,with mixed with Omani The facades have been inspired by a very lined oflined Moroccan style, mixed Omani spirit and typically Omani wooden doors in carved solidwood Asian. wood . spirit and typically Omani wooden doors carved solid in Asian
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The main entrance door and all the doors on the facades are produced in solid carved teak wood .
The main patterns are inspired from Omanis doors, and represent the tree of life, which is a traditional iconography in the Middle East and Persian/Arabic Gulf. The bespoken ironmongery is designed to mix gilded brass with inlaid of mother of pearl.
The Tree of Life is a widespread myth or archetype in the world's mythologies, related to the concept of sacred tree more generally, and hence in religious and philosophical tradition. The tree of knowledge, connecting to heaven and the underworld, and the tree of life, connecting all forms of creation, are both forms of the world tree or cosmic tree, and are portrayed in various religions and philosophies as the same tree. (courtesy of Wikipedia)
Receiving the Guests
Let’s us define the word Majlis . In traditional middle eastern residences the term “ Majlis (Arabic: ≠ ��P6 S ,pl. ≠ O₃��6 S Majālis), or Majles (Persian: ≠ ��P6 S (is an Arabic and Persian term meaning "council ", used to describe various types of special gatherings among common interest groups be it administrative, social or religious in countries with linguistic or cultural connections to Oriental / Arabic countries . It is also used to refer to a private place (a lounge, or 'salon' in British English and French, or 'saloon' on a ship) where guests are received and entertained. In our case, we will refer to the configuration of officials rooms , reception / salon , dining room , restrooms , ablution , and butler pantry, situated in a separate building at the entrance of the property. It will mainly receive the male guests of the owner of the house . ( traditionally, the ladies do not really use this majlis, but have a separate majlis for themselves.
The Majlis dedicated to receiving the Guests is situated in a separate two floors building in the left of the main mansion. It includes on the ground floor, a reception, powder and restrooms, and on the lower floor, opening on a English court , treated as a patio with a water canal in its center, emulating the Omani falaj, a dining room with its commodities. The style of this complex is inspired by the traditional Omani style of buildings, ceilings and also windows and doors .
Modern technology elements such as air conditioning are hidden into architectural elements , to be felt , but not seen. It is very important, than no intrusive industrial elements, brakes the balancer and elegance of the rooms. Curtains drapes are replaced by gilded brass lattice curtains , that are doubled on the façade by a second lattice. In the thickness of the sill frame, light had been incorporated to allow a luminous effect in night mood. Same lattices adorn the diverse doors, through the full guests complex. As in all our projects , the grilles if Air conditions are concealed , and for those seen are transposed in décoratives elements
The large art work on the wall end of the reception, is an interpretation of the famous “Tree of Life” created in mosaic, in the Omayyad palace of Khirbet el Mafjar. Other artifacts decorating the walls are some beautiful exemplars of traditional Khanjar knifes. Following the Feng Shui principles of space energy, we chosen blue as a reference colour for the reception .
The television screen is hidden inside a traditional chest using the latest technology such as the one of LG, offering roll-up, which allows to play music on its Atmos speakers, even when the screen is fully rolled .
Variations on the theme.
Night views, enhancing the decorative elements. Lights have been installed from the outside, in the fame of the windows.
As creators we get our inspiration from various sources. While focusing on this Majlis, which I wanted to reflect the traditional Omani simplicity combined with an unique elegance in details, I got the idea of using the tree of Life of the Umayyad mosaic of Khirbet el Mafjar and recreate it in a lattice style in brass and wood, with back lighting. Our studio retraced all the lines of the original model and recomposed it for the lattice effect.
As creator we get our inspiration from various sources. While concentrated on this Majlis, which I wanted to reflect the traditional Omani simplicity, combine with a unique elegance in details, came to me the idea of using the tree of Life of the Umayyad mosaic of Khirbet el Mafjar, and recreate it in a lattice style with back lighting. Our studio retraced all the lines of the original model and recomposed it for the lattice effect.
Through all civilizations, , lattice structure have been used to create different level of privacy, in private, public and religious architecture.
The most commonly known are the lattices used to protect the privacy of the women such as those named “mousharabieh� or harem windows, common in most Arabic, Persian, Turkish, Indian and Chinese traditional architecture. It can be opening to the outside of the property or inside rooms to allow to see without ben seen.
Mudhif House in Iraqi Marshlands of the Madan
may be informally known as a "harem window" in English.
Wooden Moucharabieh in traditional Cairene House
Wooden lattice in traditional Chinese House
Indian Jali screen in limestone
The Guests Dining Room
The dining room is based in the lower level, and opens, through large window bays on an English court that we treated as a small Moroccan patio. This solution offers to the Guests seating on the dining table a beautiful view and overwrites totally the feeling of being on a basement level .
The room is flanked on one side by a large buffet inspired by the traditional Omanis windows. The structure of the buffet hides a warm section and a cold section, as it is usage in the hospitality field. The armchairs and table are of English style inspiration, with golden brass indent.
On the opposite wall, a large collection of Persian, Arabic and Turkish art works are displayed
Our inspiration for the buffet of the dining room, came from all those amazing, intersect decorated traditional Omanis windows, which are inspired by traditional Indian art, specially such as Rajasthan one. Courtesy .Oman doors and windows. Mohamed el Zubair.
Being a French Designer, originating from a traditional French family, I love to set up[n glamorous table which follow the etiquette. And most of our Clients are asking us to helped them improve theirs and their staff skills in those matter . Etiquette should not been seen as static and old fashion rules. Etiquette is an art which should bring ease and beauty in the interconnection of people, the art of being courteous . It is defined in Tutorial Points as “one of the most important necessities of social life. The word courtesy itself comes from being courteous, or courtly, a direct reference to the dignified manner in which proceedings were continued in courts of that time. Being courteous means being considerate and helping while interacting with people. Courtesy-concomitant etiquette is a set of etiquettes that is about putting one’s own interests in the backseat and help people in their actions. These etiquettes help to create a positive impression in the minds of people and helps in building trust in social circles. A courteous person is able to get the maximum benefits of living in a society by regulating his interests and that of others. For example, things like allowing a handicapped person before you at a queue or keeping a lift open for your colleague could sound like small actions but they leave a big lasting impression in the minds of people. Very often, the terms etiquette, courtesy and manners are used in interchangeable ways, and many people tend to do mistakes between the usage of words those words. • Courtesy is the act of being polite and doing what the person thinks is the right thing at the given time. Earlier, the act of offering one’s seat to a lady passenger was considered a courtesy, however these stances undergo change with the advancing of time. A modern day example of courteous behavior would be keeping the door of an automatic-operated lift open for a colleague to be able to walk inside the lift. • Etiquette is the code of conduct that people in different social circles are expected to adhere to. It’s a set of instructions that might not be written out, but are paid equal importance to written rules. Etiquette specifies how a person should behave in a given circle so as to leave a positive impression on everyone present. • Manners is a neutral word, which means it in itself means only “actions”. That’s the reason we use the words “good, bad” before them to give them a direction. So when you get irritated by someone being impolite and angrily ask him “Don’t you have any manners!” and he replied “Yes”, he could actually be right. Everyone has manners, but depending on the upbringing, environment, and education, he could have either good manners or bad ones. In short, etiquette teaches us how we should behave, and manners are how we ultimately do”. When it comes to the table etiquette, most of those spoken about are the occidental ones , English or French, also called Continental. Of course in our jet setting plural society, much more etiquettes are mixing to those. Each civilization have their own, the Chinese, the Japanese one, the Indian one, the Levantine one, the one Middle Eastern one and so on …. In this project we took into consideration both French and English, depending on the guests received in the Mansion.
French setting
English setting
Gentlemen’s Majlis
The Gentlemen’s Majlis is comprising, after a reception lobby , a large salon, a dining room with its serving space - linked to a butler pantry shared with the Ladies’ Majlis- a powder room and a restroom .
The style of the full Majlis is of traditional English style, dominated in the two main rooms by coffered ceilings. To balanced the richness of the coffered wooden ceiling, we chosen to define the walls in a much simpler style, in harmony with the contemporary of the times.
We are presenting for the dining room, two versions of the same design: - one in wood finished with dark French polish, half glossy - one in a more modern version with all wooden parts, including the doors, are painted in glossy white. In both versions, we chosen to have all the brass and bronze items in patinated antiqued finish. To translate our ideas, we chosen furniture and lightings from the Spanish company Mariner.
The Reception Salon
We created a versatile mood for the salon.: The main floor is laid with Italian Calacatta Goldoni . Which can be adorned in its middle, either by a magnificent silk carpet such as the Persian Tabriz Gonbad/Dom that we chosen , or by an intricate water jet pattern, created with different colors of Onyx stones.
in case of need, we hide a large television screen behind sliding doors and in the thickness of the library. We do in case of need, we hide a rooms, large television screen behind doors and and not in the thickness the library. We do believe, that in reception a television screen shouldsliding be hidden, in play view, of altering the elegance believe, that of inthe reception and balance space. rooms, a television screen should be hidden, and not in play view, altering the elegance and balance of the space.
The Dining Room
It is always amazing how simply changing materials , or colors can totally create a different style. Here three different schemes of material, creating three different moods: -
The wood paneled , matching the salon The traditional English style , walled with wall papers the modernized model, painted with an Eggshell and Satin finish
Although we traditionally do not follow any Itfashion is always amazing how designing simply changing en vogue ideas while for our Clients , or wecolors also can try totally to cater for a adifferent more materials create style. contemporary expression in the design of Here threerooms. different of material, classical In schemes this perspective, we creating chosen three different moods: to offer a more present-day interpretation of the dining room, with lacquered ceiling and flat walls. - painted The wood paneled , matching the salon - The traditional English style , walled with wall papers of colors is in greys and blues, The scheme - including the modernized model, painted with an the carpet and the curtains. Eggshell and Satin finish
Both rooms, dining and reception are crowned with reception a cofferedare crowned with a coffered Both rooms, dining and ceiling ceiling
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The Library
Over a tribal carpet in wool of fire colour, the Over a tribal carpet in wool of fire colour, the furniture are a contemporary interpretation furniture are a contemporary interpretation of traditional furniture such as Chesterfield of traditional furniture such as Chesterfield leather seating. and wooden desk and side leather seating. and wooden desk and side tables. tables. The floor is of a rich hazelnut wood. As it is The floor is of a rich hazelnut wood. As it is mainly covered by the carpet, we chosen a mainly covered by the carpet, we chosen a simple large plank floor. simple large plank floor. The dark wood of libraries is rhythmed by The dark wood of libraries is rhythmed by gilded indents. gilded indents.
Variations on the theme.
The lightings in the library are The lightings are proposed to inbethe library traditional proposed to be traditional English style in brass, called English style in brass, called Dutch style. Dutch The style. room showcases The room showcases chandelier, chandelier, Wall brackets and side table Wall and are side oftable lamps.brackets The shade the lamps. The green shade color, are of very the traditional traditional green color, very often seen in English libraries often seen in English libraries and offices. and offices. Dutch brass chandeliers became fashionable in France during the reign of Louis XIII (1610-43). But the style proved particularly enduring in England, which imported more Dutch brass wear than any other country, and where manufacturers were to emulate the basic design for centuries to come Dutch brass chandeliers chandeliers Dutch brass became fashionable fashionable in in became France during during the the reign reign of of France Louis XIII XIII (1610-43). (1610-43). But But Louis the style style proved proved particularly particularly the enduring in in England, England, which which enduring imported more more Dutch Dutch brass brass imported wear than than any any other other wear country, and where country, and where manufacturers were were to to manufacturers emulate the the basic basic design design for for emulate centuries to to come. come. centuries
The library has two Murphy doors hidden in the design of its bookcase. Murphy doors are typically this: a door hidden in a bookcase. It historically was hiding the opening of a secret room or passage. Nowadays it more often just is an elegant way to disguise a door , which look would otherwise be Oxburgh the Library, Oxburgh Hall, Hall, the Library, viewview of of The Austrian National Library (Osterreichische the Victorian bookcases showing the Victorian bookcases showing Nationalbibliothek.) Established in the century as the less esthetic. Dutch brass chandeliers became fashionable in door France during the reign of and Louis XIIIin(1610-43). But inthe bookcase the the bookcase door ajar ajar with with Hof-Bibliothek situated the Hofburg Palace dummy books Vienna, dummy books style proved particularly enduring in England, which imported more Dutch brass wear than any other In more andand more house we country, where manufacturers were to emulate the basic design for centuries to come are now installing panic rooms, so the usage of those hidden doors is again more common. The Murphy doors are very often paneled WITH Faux books. Numerous antique shops are selling them, even Sothebys is auction some for time to time. . Duke's Library at Belvoir Castle. Duke's Library at Belvoir Castle.
Faux Book Panel for Murphy doors by Sotheby
The Ladies’ Majlis
The Ladies' Majlis comprises a salon, a dining room , adjacent powder and restroom, a small praying room. A Butler Pantry, not shown on the layout , is shared with the Gentlemen’s Majlis.
The Majlis Suite dedicated for the Ladies of the families and their Ladies guests is designed in a traditional Moroccan style. It includes a reception, a dining room with adjacent butler pantry, a powder with a rest room and an adjacent small oratory.
Here too, we declined the theme in different moods. In one proposal we created a painted pitched wooden ceiling . The decoration is of flowers in the same shades of dark purplish pink like the main fabrics of the sofas and curtains. The final choice to be left for the Clients, as we rally affectionate all of them , with perhaps a preference for the marble one. Sofas and armchairs are from the Amina collection proposed by Etro, which has a definite Moroccan theme with a contemporary twist.
The walls are cladded till a third of their heights ( just over the sofas head level), with traditional Moroccan patterns.
In the dining room, alcoves, created by the rhythm of the columns and arches, are hosting hot and cold food presentation.
The dining room has a direct access to the butler pantry, also serving the Gentlemen's dining room which is created in the same style. Adjacent to the butler pantry is a large silver vault to receive all the silver or other numerous precious cutlery , serving pieces and tableware items used in both Majlis
Variations on the theme.
We are offering here three different moods on the same design base: One with all architectural elements and the paneling in natural wood with gilded accents; One with wood and plaster elements lacquered glossy ivory color with, only the lower panels in dark wood; One with the architectural elements in beige marble contrasting with the dark gilded wood of the lower panels, doors and the luxury painted wooden ceiling
Embroidery On Purple Velvet A late 19th century square velvet cover with a pattern of elaborate flower sprays, executed in an earlier Western European style, around a central geometric medallion. The silk velvet is covered with a very high quality gold thread couching. The card backing can be seen in some places. Circa: 19th . Origin :Ottoman Empire Material: silk velvet, gold thread, metallic coil, cardboard by Sarajo
Islamic Furniture, A Magnificent and Monumental Ivory And Ebony Inlaid Octagonal Table, Attributed to Mohammed Mustafa, Cairo, Egypt, Circa 1900 AD.
Antique Ottoman Empire raised silver-metallic embroidery on pale French-blue velvet. Handtrimmed with vintage silver-metallic cording which is knotted in the corners. Designed by Becky Vizard for B. Viz Desig
Art works by Yahyah Group in Marrakesh recreating in the solid matter of brass , the ancient art of calligraphy.
Focus
Triptych
Jungle
Lighting and accessories by Yahyah Group in Marrakesh creating invisible light and making the calligraphy dance on the walls
Candle holder by the Yahya. Group
Wall mounted lighting
Example of work created for a private project by the Yahya. Group Example of work created for a private project by the Yahya. Group
Example of work created for a private project by the Yahya. Group
Example of work created for a private project by the Yahya. Group
The art of calligraphy
Calligraphy (from Greek: καλλιγραφία) is a visual art related to writing. It is the design and execution of lettering with a broad tip instrument, brush, or other writing instruments. [Calligraphy is present through history and geography, where ever writing has been present. Nowadays the two most famous calligraphic arts are the Chinese/Japanese one and the Arabic/Persian one.
Islamic calligraphy has evolved alongside Islam and the Arabic language. As it is based on Arabic letters, some call it "Arabic calligraphy". However the term "Islamic calligraphy" is a more appropriate term as it comprises all works of calligraphy by the Muslim calligraphers from Andalusia in modern Spain to China. Islamic calligraphy is associated with geometric Islamic art (arabesque) on the walls and ceilings of mosques as well as on the page. Contemporary artists in the Islamic world draw on the heritage of calligraphy to use calligraphic inscriptions or abstractions. Instead of recalling something related to the spoken word, calligraphy for Muslims is a visible expression of the highest art of all, the art of the spiritual world. Calligraphy has arguably become the most venerated form of Islamic art because it provides a link between the languages of the Muslims with the religion of Islam. It is generally accepted that Islamic calligraphy excelled during the Ottoman era. Istanbul is an open exhibition hall for all kinds and varieties of calligraphy, from inscriptions in mosques to fountains, schools, houses, etc.
An Illuminated Mamluk Quran Juz (XV), Egypt or Syria, 14th century AD
Persian calligraphy has been present in the Persian region before Islamisation. In Zoroastrianism, beautiful and clear writings were always praised. It is believed that ancient Persian script was invented by about 600–500 BC to provide monument inscriptions for the Achaemenes kings. These scripts consisted of horizontal, vertical, and diagonal nail-shape letters, which is why it is called "script of nails/cuneiform script" ) in Persian. Centuries later, other scripts such as "Pahlavi’ and "Avestan" scripts were used in ancient Persia Contemporary scripts The Nastalik style is the most popular contemporary style among classical Persian calligraphy scripts; Persian calligraphers call it the "bride of calligraphy scripts". This calligraphy style has been based on such a strong structure that it has changed very little since. Mir Ali Tabrizi who had found the optimum composition of the letters and graphical rules so it has just been fine-tuned during the past seven centuries. It has very strict rules for graphical shape of the letters and for combination of the letters, words, and composition of the whole calligraphy piece.
A Kaaba cover , Period of Sultan Mahmud II
Mir Ali Tabrizi
Silk form Ottoman Turkey, with calligraphy.
Contemporary Nastalik calligraphy
Chinese calligraphy is locally called shūfǎ , literally "the method or law of writing“.
Japanese calligraphy is shodō, literally "the way or principle of writing")
Korea calligraphy is called seoye, literally "the art of writing"). The calligraphy of East Asian characters is an important and appreciated aspect of traditional East Asian culture.
Traditional East Asian writing uses the Four Treasures of the Study] the ink brushes known as máobǐ to write Chinese characters, Chinese ink, paper, and ink stone known as the Four Friends of the Sudy . Both Japanese and Korean calligraphy were greatly influenced by Chinese calligraphy. The Japanese and Korean people have also developed their own specific sensibilities and styles of calligraphy while incorporating Chinese influences Tibetan calligraphy is central to Tibetan culture. The script is derived from Indic script. The nobles of Tibet, such as the High Lamas and inhabitants of the Potala Palace, were usually capable calligraphers (curtesy Wikipedia)
Dragon in Chinese
Folio 27r . Lindisfarne Gospels
Serenity in Japanese. Kanji
Baroque calligraphy
Impermanence in Tibetan
Gothic calligraphy
Western calligraphy is recognizable by the use of the Latin script. The Latin alphabet appeared about 600 BC, in Rome, and by the first century[ developed into Roman imperial capitals carved on stones, Rustic capitals painted on walls, and Roman cursive for daily use. In the second and third centuries the uncial lettering style developed. As writing withdrew to monasteries, uncial script was found more suitable for copying the Bible and other religious texts. It was the monasteries which preserved calligraphic traditions during the fourth and fifth centuries, when the Roman Empire fell. Sacred Western calligraphy has some unique features, such as the illumination of the first letter of each book or chapter in medieval times. A decorative "carpet page" may precede the literature, filled with ornate, geometrical
depictions of bold-hued animals. Several other Western styles use the same tools and practices, but differ by character set and stylistic preferences. For Slavonic lettering, the history of the Slavonic and consequently Russian writing Systems differs fundamentally from the one of the Latin language. It evolved from the 10th century to today. (curtesy Wikipedia)
The Family Foyer and Majlis overlooking the Pool
The Family Majlis, is situated in the basement with very few or no natural light at all. So the challenge was to make those rooms feel as they have natural light, and not to be confide in the darkness. It includes, a Foyer, a long Majlis salon which can be turned into a Moroccan inspired dining room , and an ablution, powder and restrooms en-suite rooms. We really were keen that those rooms would be very lofty and exude a feeling of freshness . We inspired ourselves from the SPA of the Royal Mansour Hotel in Marrakesh, as pictured above.
In the reception hall, the main wall is cladded by white onyx with back lights and brass inlaid created by the Istanbul base studio “deniztuncdesign�. The pattern is reprised all through the suite of rooms . We insisted to have the seating covered in white and all pre treated against staining. Same precaution had been taken on all other upholstered items.
The long reception hall had been created to host a double function, of Majlis and low seated Dining Room, as in Moroccan rooms.
The ceiling of the Family Majlis is created in such a way that the feeling of basement is totally obliterated . We reached this effect by designing a two level ceiling; the first one on the slab is a trompe l ‘oeil of a sky panorama , the second is a metal lattice ceiling , which has each intersection covered by a four directional spot, radiating like a sun, to give the feeling of a room being exposed to full sun light.
The ablution/ powder room/ restroom of the Family Majlis in golden Calacatta and gilded brass accent. In the ceiling, the grilles of the air condition system are executed in gilded brass, to blend in the dĂŠcor.
The heart of the Mansion
Staircase in Versailles (Courtesy Pinterest)
Staircase in Versailles . Petit Trianon (Courtesy Pinterest)
The soffit, which is the part under the staircase and the wall string are always the difficult parts to treat while finalizing a staircase, specially one rotating or with some curves. In recent years both are very often left naked, simply painted. We personally prefer to have a decorated wall string, which adds elegance to the stairs.
Staircase in Marble house of Vanderbilt in Newport. (Courtesy Pinterest)
Alva
For this project, which is really exceptional in its refinement, we proposed to apply an identical treatment as in the Marble House in Newport, full under stair in marble.
For the treatment of the windows, we chosen to replace the traditional drapes with mousharabieh or better jali . A jali or jaali, is the indian term for a perforated stone or latticed screen, usually with an ornamental pattern. We created a pattern matching the Neoclassical style of the Foyer, produced in a 4mm solid A gilded brass. We installed a roman curtain between the windows and the jail , for any need of shading totally the room. Those are motorized and totally hidden inside the pocket created inside the false ceiling .
The Clients asked us to built the risers of the main staircase with back lighten Onyx stone , of moods matching the Calacatta Goldini floor marbles.
The Guest’s Suite
Most of the bathrooms ware build on the same basic layout, with same directional lines. The alternative are in the colors and additional decorative elements, to match the mood of the bathroom to the one of its adjacent room
Yellow Onyx used as an Art work, with back light , on a wall of Calacatta Gold.
The Living Corners
The space of the landing of the first floor had been designed as a living room with reading corners and breakfast nook. The style is following the one of the ground floor foyer, with the jali in metal linking the two floors through the double height windows. The two corners created on both sides of the circular staircases, have been transformed into two reading corners nook . The bookcase encased between the wall and the structural column.
The breakfast nook offers, in an hotel style, two buffets, one refrigerated, one warm. The terrace which was situated over the entrance porch , had been covered, and provides a secluded seating
The Master Suite
To ornate the niches in the bathroom of the master suite, we chosen reproduction of ceramic arts of the Golestan Palace of Teheran.
The Golestan Palace is the former royal Qajar complex in Iran’s capital city, Tehran. One of the oldest historic monuments in the city of Tehran, the Golestan Palace belongs to a group of royal buildings that were once enclosed within the mudthatched walls of Tehran's arg ("citadel"). It consists of gardens, royal buildings, and collections of Iranian crafts and European presents from the 18th and 19th centuries. The art pieces we chosen belongs to the part of the palace called The Edifice of the Sun is considered the most stunning structure of the Golestan Palace. The idea of building a tall structure came to Nasser ed Din Shah who wanted a structure from which he could have panoramic views of the city. Designed by Moayer ol Mamalek, construction on this building began in 1865 and was completed two years later. Its architect was Ali Mohammad Kashi. The building has two identical towers. The exterior views have multiple arches, intricate tile work and ornate windows. (courtesy Wikipedia )
The Suite of Miss Reem
The Second Master Suite
The second master Suite, and the Suite of Master Sultan are inspired by the Art Deco style. Lets us here define briefly this style . Art Deco (c. 1905 – 1930) is one of the twentieth century’s most iconic styles; a symbol of the glamour and sophistication defined by the Golden Twenties. It was a revolutionary shift away from the austerity and heavy decoration of the Victorian era and has remained as a current throughout the years as it was at its inception. current throughout the years as it was at its inception. Realty influenced by the pioneering work of Scottish designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Art Deco (as it came to be known retrospectively in the 1960s) was developed by the auspicious work of Austrian designers Josef Hoffman and Adolf Loos and American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It fundamental characteristics are a tendency toward geometric lines (particularly rectilinear ones), monochromatic palettes and the inclusion of Industrial Revolution influences, rendering it an eternally modern look. Stylized sunburst and stepped motifs, and references to the cultures of Africa, Russia and Egypt are common indicators. Woods in Art Deco interiors were almost always polished or lacquered with rare Macassar, Burl Walnut and Zebrano were being extensively. Marble was a prominent feature, as were aluminum and chrome which were used for the first time in a decorative way as grill-like accents and trims. Other references include two-dimensional bronze murals and automobile inspirations, particularly in the style’s Streamline Modern offshoot. French Art Deco (like that exhibited at the 1925 Paris International Exhibition) is considered “high Art Deco” with variations being seen in the United States of America and later in Britain. Notable designers and artists include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann (furniture), René Lalique (jewelry), Le Corbusier (architect), Jean Dunand (lacquer work) and Etré (costumes)
Armand Albert Rateau: Lanvin’s Art Deco designer
Carpet by Delaunay
Screen by Armand Rateau
The Suite of Master Sultan
Painting by Tamara de Lempika
Windows are ornated with stained glass
] Tamarade Tamarade Łempicka Łempicka ] 16 16 May 1898 – 18 March 1980, May 1898 – 18 March 1980, was was aa Polish Polish painter painter who who spent her working life spent her working life in in France France and and the the United United States. States.
She She is is best best known known for for her her polished Art Deco portraits polished Art Deco portraits of of aristocrats aristocrats and and the the wealthy, and for her highly wealthy, and for her highly stylized stylized paintings paintings of of nudes. nudes. by Tamara de Lempika by Tamara de Lempika
The art works used in the suite of Master Sultan are done by some of the poorest people in the world, the Aborigines in Australia . Their art has such a strength , such a creativity ! It is one of my favorite of all times. Lets explore a little bite this culture and their art . Aboriginal culture dates back as far as between 60,000 to 80,000 years. This is when Aborigine’s first settled in Australia. The first evidence of Aboriginal ethos or philosophy is evident in the still visible rock art which dates back more than 20,000 years. There is no written language for Australian Aboriginal People so in order to convey their important cultural stories through the generations it is portrayed by symbols/icons through their artwork. It is imperative to pass on information to preserve their culture. Indigenous art is centered on story telling. It is used as a chronical to convey knowledge of the land, events and beliefs of the Aboriginal people. The use of symbols is an alternate way to writing down stories of cultural significance, teaching survival and use of the land. The interpretations of the iconography differ depending on the audience. Although Australian Aboriginals have been using ochres as body paint, on bark and rocks for tens of thousands of years it was not until the 1930’s that the first paintings were done. These were not done in ochre or in dot art but in water colour at the Hermannsburg mission near Alice Springs. They illustrated desert landscapes. The first exhibition was in 1937 by the most famous of the first aboriginal watercolour painters, Albert Namatjira. His exhibition was held in Adelaide. Up until the early 1970s artists mainly used watercolours. Ochre and bark paintings were starting to become available to non-indigenous admirers and at Ernabella mission in 1948 an art and craft centre was founded. Traditionally paintings by Aboriginals were drawn on rock walls, ceremonial articles, as body paint and most significantly drawn in dirt or sand together with songs or stories. Artwork we see today on canvas and board commenced merely 50 years ago. In 1971, a school teacher named Geoffrey Bardon was working with Aboriginal children in Papunya, near Alice Springs. He noticed whilst the Aboriginal men were telling stories they would draw symbols in the sand. He encouraged them to paint the stories onto canvas and board. This began the famous Aboriginal art movement. It was a major jump for indigenous people to start painting their stories onto western facades which was a very foreign concept to them. Since then Australian Aboriginal Art has been identified as the most exciting contemporary art form of the 20th Century. Aboriginal Artists need permission to paint particular stories. They inherit the rights to these stories which are passed down through generations within certain skin groups. An Aboriginal artist cannot paint a story that does not belong to them through family. Creation Law is the heart of Aboriginal culture and consequently for Aboriginal art. It sets down the Dreaming which provides the identity for Aboriginal people and their association or link to the land. Dreamtime or Jukurrpa and Tingari (the term varies according to their particular local language) is the translation of the Creation of time for the Aboriginal People. Most Aboriginal Artists paint facets of their Dreaming which forms a share of their inheritance and identity. Many people believe that dots were used to hide information from white men when the Aboriginal people became afraid that they would be able to see and understand their sacred, private knowledge. The dots were used to obscure the secret symbols or iconography underneath. Aboriginal art differs in character and style depending from which region the artist is from and what language is spoken. Most contemporary art can be recognised from the community where it was created.
Much more than just dots, the patterns and symbols can mean different things to different people from different regions of the country
The Suite of Miss Maryam
Two styles, one unusual color scheme, greens on shades of pink and white lacquered furniture
Smooth green mixed with pink degrade and white lacquered furniture . A cozy room which offers multiple choice of filings, shelving..
The Penthouse Apartment
For the penthouse suite, we proposed to create an Andalusian style suite of rooms and patios . The Penthouse suite, only occupies a part of the full roof, which is mainly used for MEP purposes. Hence, it was very important to seclude the Penthouse , from the rest of the roof.
Historically The formerly Muslim- ruled areas of the Iberian Peninsula, Al-Andalus, feature some of the most unique palaces, mosques, minarets and fortresses in Europe. Andalusian architecture can be considered a rare architectural gem in the continent. The rich architectural heritage of Spain’s Islamic centuries (AD 711-1492) was specifically exotic and beautiful. Andalusia may be gone, but the magnificent Andalusian architecture will live forever, if not in real life then in pictures and drawings.( courtesy Weetas.) There are many cherished structures in Andalusia, including the Alhambra and the Great Mosque of Córdoba. These buildings date to the Muslim era of the region, and are an excellent example of the traditional architecture of Andalusia. Andalusian architecture retains its Roman and Arab roots, while adding a dash of Mediterranean character. One of the most characteristic elements of Andalusian architecture is the interior courtyard. The patios of Cordoba are an excellent example of this feature, which was heavily influenced by Roman architecture. Andalusian architecture is noted for it’s decorative elements. This includes wrought iron gratings, azulejo (painted ceramic) tiles, and lavish landscaping. .( courtesy Weetas)
In the andalousian gardens, we ornated some arches with the protugese ceramics, named Azulejos. Azulejos date as far back as the 13th century, when the Moors invaded the land that now belongs to Spain and Portugal, but they secured their foothold in Portuguese culture between the 16th and 17th centuries. The word azulejo stems from Arabic roots, meaning ‘small polished stone’. Originally they were fairly simple structures cut into geometric shapes in neutral tones. Antique azulejos were decorated in a simple color palate, dominated by blues and whites. It is believed that these color were influence by the age of discoveries (15th – 18th centuries ) and considered fashionable at the time. The other colors that appeared were yellow (sometimes looking gold) and green. After their introduction by King Manuel I, simple geometric shapes were replaced by more ornate decoration. It was (and still is) typical for the Portuguese to tell stories about their history, religion, and culture through this decorative means; they soon became pieces of public artwork. During the last couple of centuries, the use of azulejos exploded. Today, it is common to see them decorating churches, monasteries, restaurants, bars, railway and subway stations, palaces, and regular homes. They are also used extensively in interior decoration.(courtesy culture trip)
In the master suiteof andalousian penthouse, we chosen, as art works, some iranaina painings of the Golo Morgh style. Their rather dark and rich tenure, matches perfectly the andalousian interiors. This term is used to describe a type of old style of Persian painting including flowers, leaves, birds such as nightingale, and sometimes butterflies. Painters relied on elements of nature in their representations. This style of painting could be seen either independently, or used to decorate various applicable art pieces such as pencil cases (ghalamdan). It is very likely that the roots of this style could be attributed to Chinese painting. The colors used in this style in the Gajar era were influenced by European paintings. (courtesy Elham Fashion Designer )
Cuir de Cordoue, or cordwain or cordovan, sometimes called gold leather (from Dutch "goudleer"), refers to painted and gilded (and often embossed) leather hangings, manufactured in panels and assembled for covering walls as an alternative to tapestry. (courtesy Wikepedia)
The Landscape
Glossary
A question that we are very often faced with , is how to direct the choice for the right wood . First we have to define the area where the wood is needed. At the exception perhaps in a wooden house, a chalet m where traditionally the surrounding local woods are used for construction and all decorative elements, different woods, or wood materials are used for different function.
Solid wood parquet
Plywood
Densified wood
Fiberboard or MDF :
Laminated timber
Veneer :
Lets first define the different products the most used in interior design . : - solid wood for parquet or for cabinetry - Plywood. Plywood is manufactured from sheets of cross-laminated veneer and bonded under heat and pressure with durable, moisture-resistant adhesives
- Densified wood. Densified wood is made by
using a mechanical hot press to compress wood fibers and increase the density by a factor of three
- Fiberboard or MDF.
is made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers, combining it with wax and a resin binder, and forming panels by applying high temperature and pressure.
- Laminated timber.
(LVL) is produced by bonding thin wood veneers together in a large billet. The grain of all veneers in the LVL billet is parallel to the long direction
- Veneer. veneer refers to thin slices of wood and -
sometimes bark, usually thinner than 3 mm (1/8 inch),] that typically are glued onto core panels (typically, wood, particle board or MDF to produce flat panels such as door, and parts of furniture . They are also used in marquetry (courtesy Wikipedia)
The type of wood you choose determines the beauty and strength of the finished piece. Many types of wood are available, from Oxford Wood Recycling, and each has its own properties. Here we’ve tried to explain the wood product making and buying process and what you can expect from some common types of species. The way that the original log has been cut at the saw mill determines the strength and use of the final product. The main 3 types of milling processes are Plain , Quarter and Rift sawn. Hardwoods are usually Plain or Quarter sawn and construction softwoods are generally Rift sawn.
Softwoods Softwoods aren’t weaker than hardwoods. Softwoods come from coniferous trees such as Cedar, Fir, and Pine, Redwood and tend to be somewhat yellow or reddish. Because most coniferous trees grow fast and straight, softwoods are generally less expensive than hardwoods.
Hardwoods Most woodworkers and wood turners love to work with hardwoods. The variety of colors, textures, and grain patterns makes for some beautiful and interesting looking furniture or in patterned marquetry. Different type of hardwood: Oak (arrow), Ash, Beech, Elm, Mahogany, Teak, Walnut, Cherry, Maple, (courtesy of Oxford Wood Recycling)
Exotic woods . The definition of exotic woods varies from one continent to the other. It means basically what is not locally produced. So we will refer here as Exotic, to the woods not usually used in the European or/and North American/Canadian Continent ). “Exotic’ woods are following a fashion . So we will refer here to some of the most common used those days. African Teak or Iroko Rosewood Bubinga Ebony of Macassar Padauk Wenge Zebrawood
Luxurious “ exotic” woods , we are using in marquetry and bespoken cabinetry Dalbergia. This wood mostly grown in Indian forest. It makes the most beautiful furniture once polished. Pink Ivory. This wood comes from a unique, beautiful looking tree that grows mostly in Zimbabwe. ... Ebony. Used in different types of furniture Sandalwood. This is another type of wood that is used for fine furniture as well as other types of high-quality gifts. It’s relatively rare and it’s not the easiest type of wood to work with in the world, to say the least. It has a rather remarkable color that almost looks like a cherry stain with a slight pinkish hue. African Blackwood. This is probably one of the rarest types of wood on the planet
African Blackwood
Cocobolo Dalbergia
Zebrawood
Amazonian Rosewood
African Ebony wood
Pink Ivory
Sandalwood
Bubinga
Wenge wood
African Teak
Padauk wood
Ebony of Macassar
Glossary for staircase Baluster/Spindle – This is the vertical member of the staircase, and be plain or decorative. It is the infill between the handrail and the base rail. Balustrading– This is the collective name for the complete assembly, which consists of handrails, spindles, caps and newels. Bullnose Step – Usually located at the bottom of the stairs with one or both ends of the step having a quarter- circle design. Closed String – When the profile of treads and risers cannot be seen, it is because the string face is housed or trenched. Thus the term closed string applies. Connector fittings – A term used to describe pieces of wood or metal that allow the handrail to change pitch & direction on the staircase. Continuous Handrail– The term applies when straight lengths of handrail are connecting to handrail fittings and ramps. The handrail flows over the tops of newel turnings thus creating a continuous run of handrail. Cove molding – Typically a piece of 1/2″ x 3/4″ molding that is attached underneath the treads & balcony cap. This molding covers any gaps between the rough framing and the finish tread while contributing to a finished look. Curtail Step – A decorative shaped step at the bottom of the stairway which usually accommodates the volute and volute newel turning of the Continuous Handrail System. Cut or Open String – Descriptive of a string with the upper edge cut away to the shape of the treads and risers. As a result, the profile can be seen from the side. End Tread – A smaller version of the full tread. This part of the staircase is typically 8″ or less in width. This term refers to a finish piece of wood that is attached to the rough framing. The balusters will be inserted directly into the end tread. Handrail – The horizontal member of a balustrade system that sits on top of the balusters and is supported by the newel posts. Kick Board – A piece of wood that is notched to slide over the steps of the staircase against the wall. This board can range from 1/4″ – 1″ in thickness. A panel molding is typically placed over the kick board for a finished look. Newel or Post – The newel/post accommodates the handrails, strings, treads and risers of a stairway. Nosing – The nosing is the edge of the tread that projects beyond the face of riser along with the face of a cut string. Pitch – This is the angle between the horizontal and the pitch line. Pitch Line – The pitch line is the notational line that connects the nosing of all the reads in a flight of stairs. Rake – Refers to a stairs’ pitch Rise – In a flight of stairs, it is the vertical distances between the floors of landings that are connect by the flight. It is the vertical measurement from top of tread to top of tread. Riser -The riser is the board that forms the face of a step. The riser is connected to the skirt board at a 45 degree miter when skirt board is an option. Skirt board – A piece of wood that is attached to the area below the treads and/or balcony cap. This piece is attached at the same pitch degree as the staircase. A piece of panel molding is attached to the skirt board to give a finished look. Staircase – A term that many people are familiar with. The staircase is the entire structure compromising the treads, steps, strings, balusters and landing. Stairway/Stairwell – This is the space, or void provided by the stairs Step -The step is the combination of the tread and riser. Tread – Top or horizontal surface of a step. Tread filler – A piece of 3/8″ – 5/8″ plywood that is cut to fit in between the end tread and the wall and/or wall tread. This piece of wood allows the carpet to be installed slightly above the finished tread giving the look of a carpet runner over a full tread. Volute – ornament consisting of a curve on a plane that winds around a center with an increasing distance from the center Wall Tread – Very similar to the end tread. This is a finish piece of wood that is typically 1″-1 1/4″ smaller in width than the end tread. It it attached to the rough framing against the kick board or drywall.
Courtesy to : Above: Norman Hasenfach . Staircase . Designs and Construction Right, top: Anatomy of Staircase Right, Down : Pinterest .Different types of Stairs used in buildings‌‌
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