Ligne magazine final

Issue X

Spring 2014

MAGAZINE

Lifestyle Florals In Time for Spring

Follow the Leader Who are Their Influencers?

The Top 25 in the

Business of Design Hill Country Modernity With Fern Santini

Dario Rinero

CEO P oltrona F rau

Windfall and Lalique 2 | L I G N É M A G AZ I N E Introduce the Serene Collection

P:I N 713.429.1372 L I G N É M A G AZ E | 3 INFO@WINDFALL-USA.COM WWW.WINDFALL-USA.COM

LC4 CP: an homage by Cassina to Ch

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harlotte Perriand in the occasion of the 2014 Icon Collection by Louis Vuitton

3303 Kirby Drive 77098 Houston Phone: (832)242-9470 www.internum.com

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CUSTOM HEXAGON HIDE RUG IN VARIOUS COLORS INTERIOR DESIGN - JOSE CABRERA

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KYLEBUNTING.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY - STEVEN ALLEN

U.S Representative Ligné International www.thelignegroup.com THE WORLDS FINEST HIDE RUGS Los Angeles|Houston|Saõ Paulo L I G N É M A G AZ I N E

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IN THIS ISSUE 20 34 52 62 10 16

On the Cover: Lifestyle Florals In Time for Spring Follow the Leader Who are Their Influencers?

Business of Design

The Top 25 Hill Country Modernity With Fern Santini

In Every Issue: Letter from the Editor The Little Black Book

Lifestyle Florals 34

Life and Style:

In the Loop with Ligné 76

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Spotlight on Irene Edwards From Lonny Magazine

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Code Blue Spring’s Hottest Color

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Louis Kazan Live Exotic

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Best in Business Style In the Loop with Ligné

urban ELEGANCE

Jonathan Rachman Design 1661 Tennessee Studio 2-i SanL IFrancisco CAI N94107 G N É M A G, AZ E | 9 Mark Leet Photography

Letter From the Editor

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nnovation is what drives good business, finding a way to reinvent the wheel by creating opportunities for great design to thrive - while of course leaving your mark. This issue we focus on the business of design. The business owners and industry leaders that have made our industry a place of continual innovation - the ones often behind the scenes making the decisions that help companies grow and move forward.

This issue was driven by our own changes at Ligné over the past quarter as our company expanded and opened new divisions.

Ligné Magazine, and Ligné Agency are now divisions of the The Ligné Group - the new parent company that overseas all divisions of our growing brand. Our mission is to continue to represent the very best designers, architects and leaders in the industry, while making their brands accessible on a global level and introducing opportunities that have not yet had the opportunity to be explored. It is because of the people in this issue that these endeavors have come to life - through their guidance, partnerships and willingness to take chances on the unknown. We celebrate these leaders in design, and know that the ever changing face of the shelter industry is only about to get stronger.

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LE

PENTAGONE

CHANDELIER

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JON ATHANBRO WNINGINC.CO M

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TEL EPHO N E

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415.401.9999

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SPOTLIGHT

ON

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rene Edwards is one of the hottest up and coming editors that we have seen to date. She derives from sheer excellence and determination as she accepts nothing but the best from herself and everyone she works with. As a young girl living in Milan, Irene knew her calling was to one day be a magazine editor. Little did she know, her talent, drive and love for writing would help her excel to her current position as the Executive Editor of Lonny. Once serving as the editor for both Travel + Leisure and Sunset magazine, Irene has seen and done it all, from writing and editing gardening tips to celebrity features. With an obsession for organization, Irene keeps her office chic and effective with lovable accessories from different designers. Irene’s visions for Lonny are inspiring as they set to venture into the digital age with new exciting additions to their website this spring. Continue reading to view all the juicy details on her experiences, organizational tips, and what she loves most about her work.

IRENE

EDWARDS

Executive Editor of Lonny Magazine Interview by Cherrie Braud & Kathryn Hosford

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“I was completely entranced by the amazing worlds that those interiors conveyed.”

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Tell us a little about your background in the industry and your journey to becoming the Executive Editor at Lonny.

I’ve been a magazine editor my whole career—it’s all I ever wanted to be, from the time I was 13 years old. My experience has mostly been as a generalist, which means I’ve written or edited stories on everything from travel and gardening to celebrity features and technology. But design and interiors really speak to me, probably because it’s such an intimate expression of who you are. My job at Lonny is, in many ways, the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had.

How has your experience as editor for Travel + Leisure and Sunset magazine helped you as Executive Editor of Lonny?

Both T+L and Sunset are well-known, well-respected brands with mass appeal. T+L has a truly luxe quality about it—and I don’t just mean because it’s about luxury travel. It is a first-class publication with incredible photography and writing, and the packaging concepts are really strong. I gained a lot of experience there in terms of assigning stories all over the world and working with amazing consumer brands.

At Sunset, I learned a lot about what makes a lifestyle brand attractive to a wide range of ages. (I also learned a ton about gardening!) Most importantly, that job taught me leadership skills that still serve me well today. Both of those jobs were print jobs, however. I’m proud to say that almost all my digital experience came on the job at Lonny.

Why do you think online design magazines are becoming more popular?

The democratization of design has been a huge trend for a while now. Everything from blogs to DIY cable shows plays a role in bringing design to the masses, and Lonny is obviously a big part of that mix. I do think there’s an important place for everyone, however. I have enormous respect for scholars of the decorative arts. There’s no substitute for true expertise in your field.

Have you always had a passion for design?

Yes, always. My family lived in Milan, Italy, for part of my childhood, and my parents would take us to the most fantastic museums, castles, English cottages, what have you. I was completely entranced by the amazing worlds that those interiors conveyed. I wish I could have appreciated it even more at the time.

No one can doubt Lonny’s success, what helps you and your team determine which story will be successful?

It’s truly instinctual, which I know is a typical editor’s response to this question. I definitely use myself as a barometer in terms of stories for Lonny. Who or what fascinates me? What am I curious about right now? What am I sick of and have seen too much of lately, and what am I starting to notice that I think will be a trend to come? Obviously since we’re a digital publication, I also pay attention to analytics, which is an extremely useful tool to have. But it doesn’t take the place of good old-fashioned editorial instinct.

Lonny is known for its modern sophistication, what do you look for when determining what to include in the magazine?

I look for a good mix of aesthetics and sensibilities that inspire me visually and emotionally. A space or a product has to be compelling from a photography point of view, but ideally it should also tell a story. That is what sets something apart from “hmm, interesting” to “I’ve got to put that in the next issue.”

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What has been the most memorable project you have worked on for Lonny and why?

Every story holds a special place in my heart. I will say, however, that collaborating with our current cover girl, Ruthie Sommers [December 2013/January 2014 issue], on the shoot at her Santa Barbara ranch was such a fulfilling experience for me. I still remember the first time I saw her on the first-ever cover of Domino all those years ago. She’s all grown up now, and so am I. It is said that an attractive workplace can boost productivity, what kind of decor would we find in your office or on your desk?

I love organization—trays are so key in sorting out all the stuff on my desk. I like the simple Lucite ones with photo mats from Tara Wilson Designs. Poppin is great for cheery, design-savvy office supplies. Of course I have a mini inspiration board tacked up above my computer—everything from a Tim Walker fashion photograph to a finger painting by my little girl.

With each generation becoming more tech savvy, what are your plans to evolve Lonny in the online media marketplace in the years ahead?

We’ve got such exciting plans for Lonny in the months ahead. We are relaunching the magazine this spring to take advantage of all the tools the digital experience offers—multimedia home tours, a new way to showcase products, and more. We can’t wait! No one in the shelter category is doing this right now, and we’re excited to have Lonny pioneer some new ways to show a space and tell a story. Stay tuned for more info this spring.

“My job at Lonny is, in many ways, the most fulfilling job I’ve ever had.”

IRENE EDWARDS

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THE LITTLE BLACK BOOK In this issue’s the Little Black Book we are asking interior and fashion designers their tips on finding creative compromise. Specifically how do you find creative compromise while still maintaining your overall vision?

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SARA SARNA & TINA RAMCHANDANI of Franklin Eight

collaboration is an integral part of our de“ Creative sign process. We always seek the input of our clients and love incorporating their personalized needs into our overall vision for projects. When we feel strongly about architectural elements or a design statement, we do all that we can to ensure our clients are aware of how the aspect of the design we feel strongly about will impact the project’s overall vision. After we communicate our thoughts and ideas, we come to a consensus that we are all happy to move forward with. (www.franklineighth.com)

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NILES FINNE

of FINNE Architects

all comes down to trust. The client is placing a “Itgreat deal of faith and money in the hands of the

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designer. There can be a huge amount of anxiety about the finished product, and some clients really try to micro-manage. I try to show clients many photos of completed projects and, most importantly, take the client on tours of actual projects to make the client relax about where the design is headed. It is critical to develop a vocabulary of shared spaces and finishes with the client. Of course, when you propose a design that is completely unlike previous work, there is a mountain to climb. I find that the process of gaining a client’s trust can take weeks or months or even years. Once the trust has been established, the project becomes a true joy. A few years ago a client remarked, “we need to stay true to Nils’ vision.” I looked at her and said, ‘Could you repeat what you just said, very slowly please!’ (www.finne.com)

”

NAOMI KOBRIN

of Naomi Kobrin Design

a compromise is based on budget or “ Usually space limitations . I see this not as a problem,

but as a point of tension. It means I need to be that much more creative and cutting edge to make sure I still get an incredible result despite the “compromise”. Recently a client needed to significantly reduce the budget on their new from the ground up home.

I had designed an incredible master bath loaded with great design features. We had to drop every last one of them. Instead of thinking compromise, I came up with an amazing palette of unique materials and applied them in unexpected ways. Our theme was cherry blossoms. I used real reclaimed wood next to porcelain faux reclaimed wood, pinkish mother of pearl and neutral glass tile. Bath came out amazing! To me the difference between good design and exceptional design is actually taking that compromise and turning it into an asset. I say bring on the compromise! (www.naomikobrin.com)

”

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Written by Cherrié Braud

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“It’s not a trend,

it’s a lifestyle.”

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s the creative director of both Tic-Tock Couture Florals and Eddie Zaratsian: Custom Florals and Lifestyle brands, Eddie Zaratsian has become a globally-recognized leader in the floral industry. Known for his extraordinary talent and revolutionary style, Eddie continues to evolve his creativity and design range with the launch of his new book, Custom Florals and Lifestyle. The designer’s talents are truly limitless and stretches the boundaries of the usual by showcasing arrangements that are complex, fresh, textural and perfectly edited. Now that Spring is in full bloom, we were excited to sit down with the designer and learn more about designing for Spring, the origin of his signature style and the business of floral design.

All Photography by Marianne Lozano

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What are some of your favorite Spring flower trends?

I really don’t follow trends. It’s not a trend, it’s a lifestyle.

For me, Spring is about life and new growth so I like to incorporate fresh flowers with unusual pieces typically not used in flower arranging. I love to mix a mass of one type of flower with an interesting textural pattern giving it that wow factor.

What kind of flowers are transitional for all seasons?

Orchids, Hydrangeas and Roses are transitional for different seasons because they are easy additions to creating simple and elegant arrangements.

What are some of your must-have flowers and plants for creating Spring arrangements?

I tend to lean to more green and white with a hint of soft color. Vibernum is a must and of course Umbrella Ferns and Tulips. Those are my must-haves, but I also love Jasmine, Garden Roses and Succulents.

What kind of flowers would you suggest for home decor and outdoor entertaining?

Depending on your style, you can never go wrong with anything white and green in your home. As for outdoor entertaining you should add interesting elements like seashells, fruits or knick knacks from around the house to spark conversation.

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How were you able to take your passion for flowers and blossom it into a successful business?

I believe that if you do anything with passion and love, you will always find success.

As the Creative Director for both Tic-Tock Couture Florals and Eddie Zaratsian: Custom Florals and Lifestyle, how are you able to implement two different visions for two successful brands?

To really understand both brands and whom those brands attract. The Tic-Tock brand we are currently revamping focuses on event, corporate, wedding and gifting clients. They want creativity with several colors and unusual styling. The EZ brand focuses on the way people live in their home and the way you live everyday. It features more textured and edited designs inspired by art and architecture and is targeted to serve the social and corporate world.

When designing where do you find the most inspiration?

Travel, fashion and art.

Eddie speaks with Kris Jenner and Giuliana Rancic about creating the perfect holiday arrangement on E! News.

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“Nature in itself is inspiring.”

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What kind of emotions do flowers evoke for you?

It all depends on what type of flower and color. Never anything negative, only happiness and inspiration. Nature in itself is inspiring. I love to surround myself with a variety of orchids and fresh flowers throughout my house, and of course Jasmine and Garden Roses. Sometimes I go for a dark, rich and sexy ambiance in my home or light, airy and soft; It all depends on if I am entertaining or not. Simple and elegant white and green.

From your point-of-view, what are some things people misunderstand most about the business of floral design?

People forget these are perishable items. How they received them is not the way they are going to look because flowers don’t last forever. They are beautiful when they are first cut, but also the transition of dying is beautiful. You have to add water and change water to see them through. If you want something to last for a longer period of time you have to take care of it. Flowers are meant to feed the soul and make you happy. They add that sense of nature and sensibility that we all live in.

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What was your inspiration behind creating Custom Florals and Lifestyle?

The inspiration was to do an art floral book showing the many diverse styles of floral arrangements and to inspire others who are flower conscientious people with an appreciation for art and beauty.

You have a new book that features some of your most unique designs alongside inspiring quotes. What was your favorite part in creating these pieces?

My favorite part in creating the pieces was learning each flower and what I wanted the pieces to look like and finding ways to add different elements to complete my vision. And of course, shooting with my dear friend Marianne Lozano. When you have someone you are creatively wonderful with you can truly create magic.

We have an unspoken creative understanding with one another that makes us brilliant collaborators.

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FOLLOW THE LEADER Ligné Magazine asked three designers what design influencers inspired them.

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LAUREN

GEREMIA

GEREMIA DESIGN “I like architecture and working with great architects. Annabelle Selldorf ’s projects are always so simple and beautiful. I would love to collaborate with and compliment artists, galleries, and institutions in the way that her firm does.

Steven Volpe has great work and a great gallery in San Francisco that I seek inspiration from on a regular basis. His eye for treasures and artists is so valuable for me!” (www.geremiadesign.com)

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MARGARET KIRKLAND MARGARET KIRKLAND INTERIORS “I have always loved and admired the work of Mario Buatta for his vibrant use of color, his overly abundant use of seating and accessories and his unabashed use of floral patterns!

But who does not love the Prince of Chintz??? “ (www.margaretkirklandinteriors.com)

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DETERMINATION AUSTIN VARNER VARNER INTERIOR DESIGN LLC I would have to say my mother, Suzanne Varner is the interior designer that inspires me most. Not only did she inspire me to choose interior design as my career, but her innate sense of style has guided me my entire life. She has the ability to take any client’s unique style and turn it into something they can actually live in and enjoy. Her taste is timeless, streamlined, and effortlessly chic. (www.varnerinteriors.com)

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CODE

BLUE

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BRING ON THE BLUE From the runway to the showrooms, see our picks for Spring’s hottest color.

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Compliments of Vogue Italy

1 FOUR-SLOT BILLFOLD Barney's New York Blue nappa-leather, $225

2 VOYAGE N83 Nautica

1.7 FL OZ, $48

3 ARENA CLASSIC Balenciaga

Wrinkled lambskin leather, $685

4 HIGH-TOP Giuseppe Zanotti Calf-skin leather, $1050

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5 SUPER SUNGLASSES Classic

Translucent plastic frame, $170

www.retrosuperfuture.com

6 MUTE WATCH Mute watch

One size adjustable wristband, $259

www.mutewatch.com 212-391-6969

7 PARIGI

Salvatore Ferragamo Smooth calfskin leather, $520

8 BALANCE Windfall

Crystal, silver plated candels.

www.windfall-usa.com 713-429-1372

9 NAUTIL SOFA Cédric Ragot Fabric, and tendresse leather.

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10 HUGGY CHAIR International Design

Linen, and natural ash wood, $853 www.idcmn.com 212-391-6969

11 PERIMETER LAMP Blue Dot

Steel base, and cloth lampshade, $299

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LOU I S K A ZAN

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LIVE EXOTIC.

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WWW.LOUISKAZAN.COM

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ATMOS CABINET

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KALUP CONSOLE

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The Ligné Group The Ligné Group announces their launch as the first luxury interior design group in the country offering global imports, exports, distribution, marketing, sales support, public relations and business development services. The Ligné Group consists of three divisions: Ligné Agency, Ligné International and Ligné Magazine.

“With the creation of The Ligné Group, the company has positioned itself as a powerhouse in the design industry. We are involved in absolutely every area of design from product development to export to marketing, and have successfully built a variety of platforms that elevate our portfolio of brands and clients,” states Yuri Xavier, CEO of The Ligné Group.

Ligné Agency, now a division of The Ligné Group, was founded in 2009 as a Public Relations and Business Development firm. The company’s rapid growth over the past 4 years and more in depth involvement in the sales and distribution aspect of the business has resulted in the opening of a new division, Ligné International.

“When I started the agency at the end of 2009, I saw a need in the middle of a deep recession to help companies get their names out there and prevent their sales from being impacted by a rapidly declining economy. It was the absolute worst and best time to start a business. The core of our agency was brand distribution and on the ground sales support, which then evolved into public relations and marketing. Our import and export division became so large, creating Ligné International was the next natural progression,” states Founder and Principal, Meredith Xavier.

The Ligné Group is also the parent company of Ligné Magazine, which is a quarterly online publication for the shelter industry that covers everything from design to travel with interviews and advice from industry leaders. Created as a resource for the press and design community about the ongoings with Ligné Agency, the magazine was built around their relationship with showrooms, designers, architects, bloggers and editors.

For more information on The Ligné Group visit www.thelignegroup.com

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THE

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Top 25 Influences in the

Business of Design

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Philippe Starck

Starck Network

Holly Hunt Holly Hunt Inc.

David Sutherland David Sutherland Showroom

Dominic De Gournay

De Gournay

Andrea Rubelli CEO, Donghia

What are the company’s main objectives for 2014?

Donghia is excited to present our new advertising and branding campaign in 2014 and utilize it to reinforce our position as the destination for American design at its best. Our founder, Angelo Donghia, was renowned for his aesthetic sensibility, discerning eye for quality and concern for comfort in one’s complete lifestyle. Our Creative Director, Chuck Chewning, continues to evolve our unique and personal design statement. In 2014 we will emphasize that Donghia is the premiere brand for great design and unparalleled quality, for those who live a well-tailored life.

What is your projected sales and marketing strategy for 2014?

We expect a 5 to 10% growth in 2014 which will be supported by the new Donghia advertising/branding campaign.

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Doug Mack One Kings Lane

Steven Stolman Scalamandre

Dario Rinero

CEO,

Poltrona Frau Group Gilles Bonan Roche Bobois

Giulio Capua Architectural Digest

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What is your projected sales and marketing strategy for 2014?

Barbara Friedmann Elle Decor

Sales reported by 1stdibs dealers reached over $1 billion in 2013, more than a 50% increase vs. 2012 and we believe we will continue to see similar growth in 2014. Our growth is driven both by our increased global footprint and our ability to continue to grow our client base of interior designers as well as expand our reach to a broader, global audience of buyers who are passionate about design. Some examples of our marketing efforts include sponsorships of events like LEGENDS of La Cienega in Los Angeles, the Winter Antiques Show in New York City, to top fine art and design fairs such as TEFAF: Maastricht and PAD London and Paris and print advertising in a broad range of magazines and newspapers including The New York Times, Financial Times,Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair and House & Garden in the UK.

Michael Bruno

Co-Founder/Chairman, 1stdibs

Newell Turner The Hearst Design Group

Janice Feldman

Janus Et Cie

Bobby Dekeyser Dedon

What sets your company apart from your competitors?

We have been in business for over 13 years and have built an incredible network of dealers from fourteen countries. From the beginning we have always connected with the interior design community; allowing designers to shop the best antiques and 20th century design from inventory that is in-stock and ready to ship, all from trusted, professional dealers. Our site saves designers time and money by allowing them to shop the world from their offices; broadening their resources to satisfy their needs for clients’ projects. This is why we have a strong foothold as the go-to source for the interior design community who return to shop and source over 4,000 new items uploaded from our dealers’ inventory every week.

What are the company’s main objectives for 2014?

We have several objectives including continuing to increase our global footprint and to continue to upgrade and develop our dealer tools and buyer experience.

Who is your targeted client base?

Interior designers and consumers who are passionate about design.

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What are the company’s main objectives for 2014?

Of course, continued growth is what we strive for each year. In our 80 year history, it is a relatively short time that we have been exporting so we know that we have much more potential to achieve in most markets.

What is your targeted client base?

Based on what we have just stated above, our target is at the very high-end.

What sets you apart from your competitors?

We are a family- owned company, celebrating our 80th anniversary this coming year. Patrick Frey is our Chairman and Creative Director. We are foremost a company guided by creation, never to be reigned in by commercial considerations. We own our own mill and continue produce most of our products in France. We promote the savoir-faire of artisans and the fact that we are made in France.

Which markets perform the best for your brands?

In the United States, our strongest markets are in New York and California.

Globally, France and the US are leading the way but we are experiencing steady growth in Asia and the Middle East. We have also seen the return of many large projects, both residential and commercial, and a rise in requests for custom products.

Giorgio Armani Armani Casa

Pierre Frey

VP of International Relations, Pierre Frey

What is your projected sales and marketing strategy for 2014?

Sheldon G. Adelson Sands - Las Vegas

Our clients are increasingly asking for sophisticated, luxurious and unique products and we aim to meet those needs. We are fortunate to have amazing resources within our company, from our vast collection of archival documents that are a source of inspiration for so many of our new collections to the impressive weaving mill that we own in the North of France, and the cutting edge technology that we can use to produce our products. They may seem at first to be at odds with each other but in fact they allow us to create beautiful products that meet the demands of the 21st century. We recently produced a short film to tell that story and celebrate the French heritage that is at the very soul of our Maison.

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Christopher Philips Missoni

Robert Snaidero

Federlegno Arredo, President Bernard Arnault LVMH

Stanislas de Quercize

Cartier

What is your projected sales and marketing strategy for 2014?

Since Federlegno Arredo groups together businesses and enterprises, its principal strategy consists in providing an increasing number of added-value services to its members. This can be achieved, for instance, by enhancing communication flows regarding issues of particular relevance to the federation. Among a plethora of unmistakeably business-oriented projects that are currently under way is one entitled “Cucina, Anima, Design. L’Italia che vive” (Kitchen, Soul, Design. L’Italia Che Vive), a marketing and advertising campaign to support “Italian Cuisine” as one of the prime examples of excellence bearing the “Made In Italy” label. The 12-month roving event began in Milan and after criss-crossing Europe, the United States, Russia and China, will return to Milan in April in time for the Salone del Mobile Furniture Fair and Eurocucina 2014 (the Biennial International Kitchen Furniture Exhibition).

Or the Italian Navy’s “Sistema Paese in Movimento” (Country System in Motion), in which the Federation went on board the Italian aircraft carrier Cavour to stage an unconventional installation entitled is “Il cuore dell’abitare italiano. La nostra passione è la tua casa” (The heart and hearth of Italian homes. Your home is our passion), featuring a selection of superb Italian made furniture and furnishings depicting Italy as the cradle of craftsmanship, research and innovation, where Italian entrepreneurs strive to raise the quality of people’s lives by creating beautiful, well made and functional furnishings, lighting, objects and flooring.

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Who is your targeted client base?

Ours is a niche clientele, particularly careful in details, quality materials and the design of what they choose. We like to think about an esthete traveler who loves to be surrounded by unique pieces, with an international allure but distinguished by the strong Italian character.

What sets your company apart from your competitors?

In addition to the established experience in luxury furniture which was born in the 70’s, today Luxury Living Group is the only reality, on the international scene, with high quality artisan production totally Made in Italy. A dynamic company, that with its prestigious portfolio of brands, knows how to embrace different styles and how to tell unique lifestyles able to adapt in multiple contexts. For example, a classic home with a typical Italian taste with the Heritage Collection proposals, or a glamorous and refined residence with the Fendi Casa collection: these are different identities connected by the constant research and innovation.

Alberto Vignatelli

Nayla Hayek Harry Winston

CEO, Clubhouse Italia

De Ponti Giovanni Federlegno Arredo, Srl

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A Contemporary Hill Country Oasis With a Side of Incredible City Views

by Meredith Xavier

Architecture | Dick Clark

Interiors | Fern Santini

Photography | Casey Dunn

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hen Fern Santini teamed up with arW chitect Dick Clark, their mission was clear: create a modern home that took advan-

tage of the property’s incredible views, while still remaining comfortable for family living and entertaining. The house sits on Lady Bird Lake in Austin, the same lake where the homeowners met while out on the jogging trails. The husband found the lot, which was at the time occupied by an eye sore of a home - and the only thing going for it was the views. When architect Dick Clark saw the property he climbed up on the roof, took one look at what was in front of him and immediately told him to buy it. It was the perfect spot to build the couple’s dream home.

It was the perfect spot to build the couple’s dream home.

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“ Making this p was a dream fo

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project come to life or the homeowners.�

Placed on an upward hill, the architect designed the home to be three stories, allowing the garage to remain separated on the first floor. The second floor presents large, open public spaces providing the utmost privacy with all of bedrooms being located on the third floor. The glass and concrete accented patio is positioned on front of the home directly in front of the dining room, resulting in the entertaining areas of the home to be very public. The couple says neighbors often pass by and can’t help but looking directly into the home - and they simply just wave back!

The use of soaring ceilings and large glass windows make the most of the city views, while soft furnishings, drapes and rugs introduce all of the comforts of home. The couple wanted to channel a Southern California aesthetic of a modern and minimal space that was not overly fussy with finishes.

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Mid-Century furniture and lighting paired with classic European designs create a lightly eclectic sentiment, while still allowing each room to flow openly and compliment the modern architecture. And the best part - the view just keeps getting better and better as you move throughout the house, which was exactly how Clark designed it - to have visitors experience the space as a series of events.

Bright blues pop against cool concrete walls that serve as floating separators between rooms. Built in bookshelves and picture walls in rich multi-tonal wood give the space personality and dimension, while introducing a great amount of functionality. The couple loved the idea of rotating art pieces on the free-floating wall facing the dining room -which are always great conversation starters.

They looked to Santini to help expand their art collection as they scouted pieces that suited their new interior.

Making this project come to life was a dream for the homeowners.

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This was their first time to work with both an architect and an interior designer, and the wife had spent years putting together articles and images of the dream home she would build one day - in fact she had a notebook stuffed full of them. Included in that wish list was a city view. When asked her sentiments about this home, she said, “we got what we wanted, and more”.

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THE BEST OF THE BUSINESS Trends that make working in the corporate world more stylish than ever.

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1 THEORY ICON Tie Front Shirt

Double silk georgette and black tie, $275

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2 MANOLO BLAHNIK

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Chaos

Patent leather, $725

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3 NANA DE BARY Pink Eau De Parfum

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5 SMYTHSON

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Grained goatskin leather, $995

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6 BAND OF OUTSIDERS NO JUNK NO BUNK Houndstooth Jacket Wool and leather, $1650

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7 KYLE BUNTING Four Seasons Cow Hide

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8 SAINT LAURENT Colorblock Skinny Tie

Silk and chain tie end insert at back, $295

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9 LOUIS KAZAN Cabralia Desk

Exotic wood and leather

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10 GANDIA BLASCO Gan Spaces Cojín Pillow 3

Synthetic cover and Polyfill, $220

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11 SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Rivoli

Smooth black leather, $225

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12 ARTIFORT DESIGN Artifort 905 Comfort Sofa Custom made, $3680 LIGNÉ

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Photography by: Emile Browne

IN THE LOOP WITH

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Ferrari + Poltrona Frau For the first time ever, Ferrari teamed up with Poltrona Frau to throw an event to remember. Italian craftsman were flown to Houston to show their intricate skills as they made a signature tufted sofa in front of 150 selected guests. Ferrari, which uses only Poltrona Frau signature leather, drove some of their hottest designs into the showroom for guests to swoon over during the cocktail hour.

“We are thrilled to be a part of this first time collaboration with Ferrari and Poltrona Frau. It is something truly remarkable to have these Italian craftsman flown in to give us an inside look at a process that so few have ever had a chance to experience.”

-Yuri Xavier, CEO, The Ligné Group

Photography by: Emile Browne

Houston Goes Prime Time Charitable guests gathered at Internum for “An Evening with the American Dream Builders” to celebrate Houston’s own Nina Magon and her primetime debut on NBC. The event raised $5,000 dollars for local charity Dec My Room, who personalizes the rooms of children who have been admitted to the hospital for prolonged periods of time, to aid in their healing process. - CB

Kathy French, Susan Plank, Nina Magon, Courtney Barta, Kendall Plank, Kasey French

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Ready, Set, Launch!

Celebrity designer and “American Dream Builders” star, Erinn Valencich celebrated the launch of her new collection at the Cory Pope Showroom along with the Dallas design community. - CB

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MAGAZINE

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