No. 17
FALL 2012
regional focus: hamptons, ny
GOING COASTAL Behind the scenes of New York’s most exclusive getaway
PLUS:
the designers of
asid florida north Inspirational interiors from the organization’s top talent
designer showcase: wilson associates ALSO: ike kligerman barkley Mark p. Finlay architects + tyler development
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contents luxury home quarterly fall 2012 issue 17
ON THE COVER The Peconic Bay Residence by Stelle Architects, a two-story structure that incorporates glass and interstitial spaces to reduce impact, is situated around an axial promenade and rests on a bluff overlooking the bay. The exterior is surrounded by cedar and locust trees and exhibits clean lines of varying shades of wooden siding, as well as a pristine stone walkway that complements the home’s simplistic and functional design.
page 80
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The Kenyon Beach House BY DESIGNMIND, LLC: p 140 FALL 2012
Architects
PLUS
Editor’s Note
32 Maccracken architects 36 mercedes de la garza, aia architect studio 40 mark p. finlay architects 43 jack arnold companies 46 J square architecture, llc
page 8
Calendar Trade shows and special events in the coming months page 14
Product Spotlight Highlighting innovation in the field of design page 15
Builders 50 tyler development corporation 54 luster custom homes 58 RACE POINT, INC. 62 ELLEN GRASSO INC.
66 adelaine construction inc. 69 whitney blair custom homes 72 waverly custom homes, llc 76 michael f. simon builders
Regional Focus: hamptons, ny 80 stelle architects 84 mcloughlin construction corp. 86 FOUNTAINHEAD CONSTRUCTION INC. 88 MICHAEL HAVERLAND ARCHITECT 90 BLAZE MAKOID ARCHITECTURE
94 MARTIN ARCHITECTS PC AIA 96 BERG DESIGN ARCHITECTURE 98 PAUL RUSSO ARCHITECT 100 PERELLO BUILDING 102 BARNES COY ARCHITECTs 106 jd audio & video design, inc 108 john david rose architect
Behind the Lines featuring Joseph Walsh Design page 22
On the Rise Spotlighting designs that stimulate the senses page 24
Books Industry expertise and inspiration page 25
Acclaim Custom-home projects of note page 28
Directory
page 176
Designers 112 ike kligerman barkley 118 alene workman interior design
Designer showcase 124 wilson associates 132 philpotts interiors
asid florida north
Projects
140 designmind, llc 142 amanda webster design 146 studio m interior design, inc. 148 schulte design 150 dawn kaiser design services, llc. 152 brianna michelle interior design
168 brian foster designs 171 bridgwater consulting group
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156 northsouth studios, llc 158 BEasley & henley interior design 160 gribble interior group 162 ie: designs 164 m. & e. cross, inc. interior design 166 bmg design studio
At Home With 178 cynthia masters
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Tyler
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C O R P O R A T I O N
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LCRA would like to express our thanks and appreciation to Race Point Construction for their excellent execution of our design. Their detailed and efďŹ cient project management is rarely found in the world of residential construction. The most satisfying result, happy clientele, was achieved by our smooth and mutually appreciative working relationship.
Stylistic Versatility | Contextual Design | Attentive Service Adele Chang, AIA 35 Hugus Alley, Ste. 220 | Pasadena, CA P. 626.449.9698 | F. 626.449.1403
LCRA-Architects.com
editor’s note
p. 124 Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel by WILSON ASSOCIATES
F
or the fall issue of Luxury Home Quarterly, we focus on the idea of creating spaces that bring family and friends together. Whether dining in a traditional setting or relaxing in a modern and functional living room, we focus on products and projects that showcase upscale living and fresh, clean designs. From beachy landscapes to sun-drenched locations around the world, our featured companies invite you to sit back and unwind.
In our regional focus, we pay special attention to the character of a home and how it accurately reflects the homeowner’s style. We also take a closer look at the inspiration behind the homes located at one of America’s most famous getaways, The Hamptons. Whether sophisticated and glamorous or simple and cozy, this affluent region, known for its beachfront signature homes, has taken luxury living to new heights. What is awe-inspiring about American designers -- including interior, architectural and home building -- is their ability to forge their own unique signature style while pushing the envelope with innovative ideas that constantly exceed expectations. The members of the dynamic organization, The American Society of Interior Design, share with Luxury Home Quarterly some of the essential elements that set the stage for creating spaces with character. Alongside the inspired minds behind ASID and the Hamptons are several architects, builders and designers who have made names for themselves by continuously raising the bar in creating breathtaking homes. For Mark
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Finlay of Mark P. Finlay Architects, AIA (Live-In Gallery, page 40), creating a space means starting from scratch. With pen in hand, Finlay envisions an interior that blends together majestically with the landscape. Tyler Development (Modern Foundation, page 51)--a father-son business located in California--has succeeded in completing more than 200 luxury homes since its founding in 1980, which include residences for high-level executives as well as celebrities, repeat clients and referrals. Trisha Wilson achieves success for her design firm, Wilson Associates (Cultural Confluence, page 124) by transforming interiors into one-of-a-kind spaces. Through her keen expertise, Wilson has designed across six continents; her most recent stop being the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel in the United Arab Emirates, which is situated on an expansive beachfront. We hope that you enjoy our journey to decadent homes in settings both modest and regal. As always, we will continue to acknowledge and educate industry professionals everywhere for their commitments to innovative projects and products where informed decision-making and resourcefulness are paramount.
The Editors FALL 2012
DESIGNER: INGRAO INC., ARCHITECT: WILL SCHULTZ, PHOTOGRAPHER: ERIC STRIFFLER
TISCHLER WINDOWS AND DOORS. UNCOMMON. UNCOMPROMISING.
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correspondents Amy Howell Hirt Andrew Santa Lucia Brian Libby David Hudnall Elisa Revello Isabel Eva Bohrer Jamie Farshchi Jessica Kirby Katjusa Cisar Melissa Fears Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford Tara Imperatore Zipporah Porton
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FALL 2012
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calendar
Trade shows and special events in the coming months
OCT 17-19
SEPT 15-30
OCT 11-14 VANCOUVER HOME & INTERIOR DESIGN SHOW
IFFT/ INTERIOR LIFESTYLE LIVING
TOUR OF HOMES
Tokyo, Japan Discover interior design ideas on a global stage with the IFFT. Attracting over 300 exhibitors from over 15 countries, the international trade fair showcases ideas of a broad range in high-end interior design items including furniture, textile, dining and kitchen products. Held annually in autumn, IFFT/ Interior Lifestyle Living is the sister fair of Interior Lifestyle Tokyo and is one of the largest international consumer textiles and goods fairs. This year the fair structure will consist of seven significant zones including: Home, Kitchen Life, Everyday, Accent, Global, Movement and Japan style. In addition, there will be a special focus on the latest business models for the interior design industry. ifft-interiorlifestyleliving.com
Columbia, SC The Tour of Homes gives you the opportunity to see the best communities and fine homes. Columbia’s top builders and developers will show you their innovative ideas, special design features, dynamic floor plans and more. columbiabuilders.com
Vancouver, British Columbia This trade event is held over a period of four days, at the BC Place Stadium. The latest styles and patterns in the interior design industry are placed under the spotlight at this trade event. biztradeshows.com
SEPT 27-30
NOV 14-16
ARC INTERIORS
ARCHITECTURE BOSTON EXPO
San Diego, CA This annual event is an intensive one-on-one business meetings program that delivers interior architecture decision-makers from America’s largest design firms. This event offers the most direct route for suppliers to the interior design sector. arc-interiors.com
Boston, MA ABX is one of the most comprehensive buildingindustry events in New England. Build Boston and Residential Design and Construction have joined under one unified brand to help building-industry professionals broaden their networks and opportunities. abexpo.com
SEPT 14-23
OCT 4 - DEC 16
NOV 21-22
THE LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL
EERO SAARINEN
FORUM LED
London, United Kingdom Made up of over 300 events and exhibitions staged by 200 partner organizations across the design spectrum and from around the world, this event showcases the city’s role in global design. londondesignfestival.com
Los Angeles, CA The exhibition at the Architecture and Design Museum will highlight Eero Saarinen’s brilliant career beginning in 1939 and culminating in 1962, specifically highlighting his influence on design in midcentury America. aplusd.org
Paris, France This two-day conference hosts experts from the LED community discussing the latest technological advances. Attendees for the event will meet with market leaders, discover new fields of application and exchange innovative ideas with industry professionals. forumled.com
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
Dine in style with the fall issue of LHQ, where our selection of highly evolved and prestigious products foster intimate gatherings for friends and family. From across the globe, fine details and lavish wares enliven the autumn season.
Riddled Table by Steven Holl for Horm / p. 20 luxuryhomequarterly.com
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product spotlight
turn up the heat Ordinary kitchens have been made extravagant with our picks for fabulous pieces that allow the room to function, in style. A selection of cooktops and kitchen hoods double as pieces of art, perfect for preparing meals that are as lavish as the home itself.
frecan regatta island Purveyors of fine hoods for more than 25 years, Frecan has designed Regatta Island, with three LED lights, charcoal filters and a body composed of glass and steel. The hood is also available in either white or black. grupfrecan.com
Bertazzoni PM36 1 IG X + P304IX Luxury cooktops are a staple for this family-run business. The PM36 1 IG X (above) combines gas, electric griddle and induction cooking in one unit and the P304IX (right) from the same series is complete with touch controls, induction zones and a stainless steel frame. bertazzoni.com
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product spotlight
FRECAN Tube Isla 38 Frecan’s mission is to offer high-quality products alongside outstanding performance. The Tube Isla 38 comes in a sleek, metallic design and is composed of stainless steel and two halogen lights. grupfrecan.com
frecan hood photos: grup frecan
murano futuro futuro Italian manufacturer Futuro Futuro has created a line of designer kitchen range hoods called the “Murano Collection,” which were inspired by artisan glassblowers off the coast of Venice. The collection combines Italian craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology and comes in 11 glass designs, including “Orion” (above) and “Moonlight”(left). futurofuturo.com
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high-five In the past, lounge furniture was solely used for relaxation and comfort, but contemporary furniture designs emphasize the “fun” in function. With funky shapes and dazzling details, our assortment of five sassy seating options adds to any decor.
lee broom Salon Two Seater Sofa Salon Armchair & Salon Footstool Inspired by the plush and ritzy furniture of the 1930’s, each item in the six-piece collection is decked out in gold or gunmetal studs, adding a punk rock element to the contemporary furniture. The armchair, footstool and two seater sofa are available in beige wool, gray wool, white leather or black leather. leebroom.com
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product spotlight
lacividina folies Founded in 1976, this Italian-based company offers an array of armchairs and sofas for both contract and private sectors. Through a meticulous process of selecting materials and finishes, each piece of furniture hearkens back to Italian design. The Folies high-backed armchairs, designed by PBA Studio, have a delicate wraparound shape, offering a sense of protection. lacividina.com
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diego vencato lieve Industrial designer Diego Vencato, based in Milan, Italy, has re-conceptualized furniture design with a new take on wood. The base of the Lieve table is draped and folded to mimic fabric, which is made of wooden mesh. The top of the table is a mix of steel and glass. diego-vencato.com
paco camus Luxor The private collection of Paco Camus features avant-garde wooden furniture, including the Luxor, a table composed of a metal structure that supports both the marble and wood material of the piece. The marble, named “forest brown� is sourced from Rajasthan, India and blends in with the crisscrossed wood on the tabletop. pacocamus.com
horm riddled table The architecture and urban design firm Steven Holl Architects has taken its skills as a builder and translated them into furniture design. The Riddled Table, designed for Horm, is comprised of a porous surface, which sits atop lasercut Canaletto Walnut legs with a vegetable oil finish, making the piece appear to be floating off of the ground. horm.it
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behind the lines CUSTOM COLLECTIONS FOR LUXURY HOMES—AND THE designers BEHIND THEM
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JOSEPH WALSH DESIGN Unique interpretation of furniture design comes naturally to Ireland native by BRIAN LIBBY
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n 2008, Irish furniture designer and craftsman Joseph Walsh had a solo show of his work in New York City. Not only was it a moment of pride, but it also inspired Walsh to change his career.
“It was the first time I got to see that many pieces, maybe 20, together in a space,” Walsh says. “The show was [a] successful and important event. But seeing that many pieces of my work over a fiveyear period, a lot of pieces were concerned with a certain level of excellence in making and not necessarily me. That gave me the opportunity to see more potential. I wanted to create work that was more expressive.” Walsh soon did just that. His ensuing body of work, a bolder series of wood tables and chairs with organic shapes, “was a reaction to that, taking the craftsmanship for granted and going from something controlled to more fluid, in more unpredictable ways,” he says. Walsh’s work since the 2008 show has gained international acclaim for its straddling of art and furniture, of beautiful form and pragmatic function. In his Erosion series which includes the Erosion I and II Dining Tables and the Erosion II Low Table, Walsh cut one long log into segments, reconstructed them and carved them into subtle yet intricate forms. “That series basically was looking at eroded form,” Walsh says. “You’re imagining a
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VIEW THE ENTIRE COLLECTION AT
josephwalshstudio.com
riverbed getting eroded over time, with sections eroded into crisp lines and creating a void.” For the Enignum series, including the Enignum II Chair, “the intention was to create this sculptural silhouette,” he says. “The seat hangs from the leg so you’re suspended.Yet it’s comfortable and reassuringly so. It was focusing on that delicate line suspended in space. Also that view from behind, that continuous line coming up through the floor, hanging back and moving to the floor again.” Walsh credits his career to his modest, rural upbringing in a large family. “We did not have the surplus of disposable toys that has become the norm today,” he says. “I grew up on a farm with an orchard where we created fantasy houses and rafts. At about eight, I took an interest in my grandfather’s marquetry, so he sent me home with a saw and some guidebooks. I started cutting any piece of wood I could find.” By age 12, Walsh had already
01 Enignum III Chair olive ash, copper, silk and woven textile 02 Erosion I dining Table burr olive ash, olive ash. white oil finish 03 Enignum IV Copper Chair olive ash, copper, white oil finish Erosion III Dining Table olive ash, polished wood 04/05/06 Erosion II Low Table rippled ash and olive ash
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“You’re imagining a riverbed getting eroded over time, with sections eroded into crisp lines and creating a void.”
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built a dresser, and by 15 he was winning craft competitions and building traditionally-styled furniture on commission.
photos: Andrew Bradley
Given their popularity, Walsh could continue designing artful wood tables and chairs for many years. But he also wants to keep challenging himself. “Making one of these pieces, you don’t know where you’ll end when you start. For me that’s exciting,” he says. “I’d like to think that I’m still open to going on a totally different path again. I’d like to think I’m still open to possibilities that really challenge myself. But I have a lot to explore in this body of work. I think we can achieve something with an obvious beauty, something a little bit uncomfortable at times, and a deeper mystery as well. For me it’s about using the material in a sympathetic way.”
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on the rise
Popular trends and rising stars in the luxury-home market
Laura Britt/Vervano vervano.com
LYDIA LOUNGE/eva chaise A slipper chair like no other, the Lydia Lounge can be used as a stand-alone piece or in multiples as a settee or sectional. The Eva Chaise offers cushioned support and simple, graceful styling, perfect for combining with the modular Lydia to create an elegant sectional.
Lauren Desk This sleek piece is the epitome of form-meets-function. The multi-faceted detailing across the face creates a distinctive wooden accent, pencil drawers offer storage and the beveled front edge keeps it easy on the wrists.
Growing up in a small, rural environment in Arkansas, designer Laura Britt of Laura Britt Design was constantly surrounded by elements of sustainability, so it was only natural that these elements would be incorporated in her budding furniture company, Vervano. When asked how she came up with the name, Britt says, “[it is] from the Latin root ‘verve,’ which means full of life. This is a sustainable line, which is full of life and the notion that it is a sustainable production cycle.” The designer says she was committed to designing and producing furniture with a sustainable methodology from the outset. “This is still not the mainstream way of building furnishings and has required a tremendous amount of research,
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Sadie Youth Chaise Like the grown-up version, this piece combines sturdy construction and graceful lines that will please both active kids and discerning parents. Beautiful by herself, Sadie also plays well with others. Combine with Ethan for a kid-friendly retreat.
energy and collaboration to reach the best solutions,” she says.
interesting aesthetic, while also being easy to rest one’s wrists on.
For more than fifteen years, Britt has been designing furniture, and her unique attention to detail can be found in may ways, including the furniture’s multi-functionality. The Lydia Lounge operates as its own piece, but can also serve as a settee and can be expanded into a sofa or sectional. The lounge chair also works well with the Eva Chaise, which combines simplistic lines with plush cushioned support. The Lauren Desk is the perfect mingling of form and function. Instead of employing traditional design techniques, the desk has a beveled, faceted edge that allows for an
Significant attention has also been paid to creating grown-up, functional furniture for children. “My observation is that children gravitate to spaces and furnishings that are scaled to their size,” Britt says. “I wanted to create ‘pint sized’ furnishings that really give them their own special place in their homes.” The Sadie Youth Chaise is playfully decorated with pink butterflies while still retaining the sophistication of Britt’s furniture designed for adults. “It's about finding the balance between sustainability, durability, beauty and appropriateness for each piece of furniture,” Britt says.
fall 2012
books
Industry expertise and inspiration
The Natural Home Author: Hans Blomquist Hans Blomquist is no stranger to the interesting and evocative elements of home design and decor. The first part of his book is dedicated to the various ways that nature and environment bring life into a home. In the second section, “Homes,” Blomquist’s residences showcase how natural details provide simplistic elegance to a space. Ryland & Peters Small; rylandpeters.com
Dazzling Design Author: Amanda Nisbet For more than 10 years, Amanda Nisbet has been designing for clients all over the world. It is her keen ability to attend to a client’s needs, coupled with her sense of whimsy, that has produced beautiful country houses, New York City apartments and Hamptons properties--displayed in her book through 250 photographs. Stewart, Tabori & Chang; abramsbooks.com
Traditional Now: Interiors by David Kleinberg Author: David Kleinberg New York-based interior designer David Kleinberg has created dream homes for over 30 years. In his first book, the designer displays more than twenty projects that embody the breadth of his work. By combining a selection of fine art, antiques, fabrics and textures, each home lives up to Kleinberg’s design mantra: “Beauty meets quality of life.” Monacelli Press; randomhouse.com
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Creative Solutions Big & Small Wainscott Industrial Solutions, Inc. PO Box 974 | Wainscott, NY 11975 President Thomas R. Johann | P. 631.537.0770 | tjohanngcc@yahoo.com
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custom-home projects of note
Scout Island Residence A modern gem lies among traditional homes in a rooted hillside neighborhood in Austin, TX. Precise, horizontal lines emanate along the plane and a pair of Ipe screens conciliate between the brick and landscaping, subtly infusing contemporary style. Expansive windows bestow a panoramic opening and astonishing views of a hidden precipice and lush foliage. Carefully separated into two bars to distinguish the public and private living areas, each room is constructed to project out into the remarkable scenery. The residence—shielded by tall grasses, papyrus and cattail—is built around a center courtyard allowing for timeless respite.
Credits Architect: Alterstudio Architects, LLP Interiors: Interiors designed in collaboration with Laura Carpenter Photography: Paul Finkel, Piston Design, Whit Preston Photography
-Elisa Revello
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Letterbox House Half enclosed, half open, neither in nor out; the Letterbox house, also known by some as the upturned boat, was designed like a multi-sensory organ. Capturing the sun, the sky, as well as the sounds and scents of the sea below, this home transforms into a scaled verandah. With respect to the Mornington Peninsula surrounding the home, McBride Charles Ryan wanted to design a home that was modest in scale for the area’s beach front living and challenged conventional architecture. The home is a contradiction in its own right. One front wall of the home appears to grow forward, leaving the remainder of the home behind, while other perspectives of the home appear to have been carved away. The intention of the design was to be ambiguous-What is it? Where is the front door? As an ever changing main attraction, the massive wall can be a wrapped deck, cliff or even a wave. On the opposite side of the timber-raked wall that also shapes the exterior is a brilliant red support structure and shelves for the interior. -DeidrÊ Davis
Credits Architect: McBride Charles Ryan Design Team: Robert McBride, Debbie Ryan, Adam Pustola, Meredith Dufour, Michael McManus, Angela Woda, Matthew Borg, Fang Cheah Photography: John Gollings
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Donner Pass Residence BY MARK TANNER CONSTRUCTION • FEATURED IN LHQ summer 2012 / PHOTO ©VANCEFOX.COM
NAME OF SECTION
N o. 16 summer 2012
Subscribe Online Get connected to the custom home industry through Luxury Home Quarterly’s insider coverage. Discover a showcase of the industry’s most stunning projects. cutting-edge products and real stories of trials and success from professionals like yourself.
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Golden Legacy Illustrious Additions to Walt Disney World Reso rt
raising the stakes gertler & wente architectu
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summer FALL 2012
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ARCHITECTS
NAME OF SECTION
A group of skilled and passionate innovators who plan, develop and re-envision buildings and homes for clientele across the globe.
The Art Barn BY MARK P. FINLAY ARCHITECTS / p. 40 luxuryhomequarterly.com
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ARCHITECTS
The East Bay House Completed: 2009 Location: San Francisco, CA Jerome Creek Lodge Completed: 2007 Location: Soda Springs, CA macarchs.com
MacCracken Architects Architectural firm combines natural elements and experience into durable spaces by Melissa Fears The PacificWest coast has long been a prevalent influence on the designs of San Francisco-based firm MacCracken Architects. Nature’s local vernacular— rocks, bark, hazy clouds, gray sea—is echoed in the neutral palette of the firm’s warm, modern projects. Founded by lead principal Steve MacCracken in 1984, the company has risen to prominence by exhibiting dynamic structures in urban and rural settings alike. Ranch-style homes have been gutted and reborn as sleek light boxes, their façades updated with gleaming window walls. Ski resort wonderlands have been built from the ground up mimicking the old mining and railroad towns so prominent in Northern California’s rich history. Using sustainable materials really is about exposing the raw material itself and not covering it up. “It is about dealing with an expression of honesty in showing materials that come as they are, like concrete, wood, steel and glass,” MacCracken says. “We feel like we started working with sustainable materials long before it became popular. We know that one of the most sustainable qualities in a building is to have it built well and using materials that last a long time.” High quality buildings equal success. Working with several building types, it has opened the door for the firm to expand, Daniel Robinson, principal, says. “Looking at our portfolio we have performing arts buildings and we are working on an exterior public plaza. We also have residential, multi-family residential and resort work.” Using a mixture of hand drawings, along with computer generated images, MacCracken is able to become truly involved with the design process.
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“[There are] so many things that really have changed, but there are other things we try to keep a hold of and its part of the art of architecture that we appreciate,” says MacCracken. Working on the East Bay House for over a decade off and on, this project lent itself to be not just a remodel, but a rebuild as well. East Bay House was a challenge in many ways. A ranch-style building from the 1950’s, it was really obvious that [the] building had been built in a not very sensitive approach, MacCracken says. “The builders had cut out a chunk of the hillside and put down a one-story building with very low eaves.” Using much of the existing slab, they only needed to make a few minimal additions. The new design consists of five wood volumes with tall wood windows and doors allowing visual access to the distant horizon. They are connected by slightly lower roof and ceiling sections with trellis and walls of elemental color plaster. “It was an interesting combination of solving the problems with keeping the things that they did enjoy about the house, but molding those two things together into a completely new house,” says Robinson. “It was somewhat familiar in some respects, but completely new to them in others.” The entryway was flipped and enclosed, turning it into a garage and a more private entrance. “We tried to establish a more blurred perimeter with the landscape rather than have a hard edge to wild countryside,” says MacCracken. “We tried to blend that so that there is this kind of
01 Overview of the public and private wings of the residence, with the open courtyard in between. 02 Where possible, indigenous landscape was preserved between building forms. 03 Central exterior dining table is nestled between the mature oak and the new pool. 04 Library with integrated shelving and fireplace. 05 Interior entry is lit from above with translucent skylights and the exterior limestone carries into the interior spaces. 06 Interior spaces incorporate wooden ceilings in contrast to the tile floors.
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photos: Rien Van Rijthoven
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“We know that one of the most sustainable qualities in a building is to have it built well and using materials that last a long time.”
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Steve MacCracken, Principal
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photos: Rien Van Rijthoven
easy transition into the wild grasses, shrubs and oak trees.” By raising the heights on the doors and windows and adding skylights, the light became a much better quality. “Before when you were standing in the house and staring out, because of the overhangs and the low head-height of the window you could barely see the sky,” says Robinson. “Whereas now, with the opened up windows, you can see the sky around the property that was just cut out in the previous design.” The company's methodology is deeply embedded in the principles of modernism and relies on exquisite details, fine long-lasting materials and adherence to the simple idea that substance and durability overrule trendiness.
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Urban Landscape Architecture, Design, & Planning 4 Orinda Way, Ste. 100D | Orinda CA Ph. 925.254.5422 www.landsarch.com
Jerome Creek Lodge Phase 1 07 The dining room mixes both modern and traditional furniture.
This ski-in and ski-out condominium project is the first of four phases at the Jerome Creek Lodge at Sugar Bowl. It is situated at the base of Mt. Judah in Northern California. Returning to the indigenous beginnings of this area’s rich mining and
08 Natural wood and limestone materials and minimal detailing define the master bathroom.
railroad history, the lodge serves as public space, something
09 The exterior forms of the Jerome Creek Lodge are reminiscent of mining camp buildings used in the Sierras during the Gold Rush.
says MacCracken. “We tried to make a departure from trying
10 Interior finishes include alder wainscot, granite kitchen counters and hand hewn wood flooring.
trying to interfere, so the team hired a snow consultant to
that was lacking prior. Wanting to have a connection to the heritage and natural materials of the area, design cues were taken from old mining towns. “In those days long ago, homes were built in the most efficient [and] quickest way possible,”
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to import something that doesn’t belong here. Mining camps and railroad camps were built out of necessity and built honestly and quickly.” The design process was not so easy however, with snow drifts, ice dams and other winter weather help with the process. Using a cold roof, it allowed for the snow and ice to be properly dispersed along the roof to minimize snow and ice damage.
ARCHITECTS
Satre Residence Completed: 2004 Location: Reno, NV 999 Green Street Completed: 2009 Location: San Francisco, CA
Mercedes de la Garza, AIA Architect Studio
delagarzastudio.com
Modest talent and conceptual style are central to this interior design firm’s success by David Hudnall Early in her career, Mercedes de la Garza worked at the home studios of the influential architect and AIA Gold Medalist Charles W. Moore. “It was a great environment, with this wonderful work ethic and sense of design,” de la Garza says. “We worked 24/7, but we always had fun. He always said to make sure you’re having fun.”
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De la Garza certainly seems to be heeding that advice. She attended graduate school at UCLA; did02 post-graduate work in Frankfurt, Germany, where she studied with world-famous architect Peter Cook; worked for years in West Africa; then practiced design in Lake Tahoe before starting her own firm in 1999. She now has studios in Reno, NV and San Francisco, CA.
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photos: Jeff Dow, Jeff Dow Photography
“By the time I decided to start a firm, I had learned that many famous designers and firms have an iconographic way of designing,” de la Garza says. “When you hire Richard Meier, you know you’re getting a specific type of RichardMeier house -- it’s white and has the same detailing as the other Richard Meier houses. It’s the same with Moore -- his creations are all very postmodern. I think that’s great. But I’m more interested in molding architecture around the client, as opposed to telling the client what you think it should be. Which is why I think we’re so diverse as a firm -- we develop a vocabulary around the person as opposed to coming to the table with our vocabulary.” Take the Satre residence, a Reno project de la Garza’s firm completed in 2004. The clients liked Reno because of its proximity to desert and mountains. They had lived in historic homes previously and brought de la Garza “pages and pages” of historic homes for inspiration. “Finally, they took me to the lot they wanted to build on, and it was just this great big sage brush hill with nothing on it,” de la Garza says. “They wanted to
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01 The Satre Residence has a rustic feel to it incorporating wood and brick accents. 02 The "catwalk" leads to various rooms on the upper floor. 03 The brick and stone entryway is surrounded by impressive art and sculptures.
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“I’m more interested in molding architecture around the client, as opposed to telling the client what you think it should be.” Mercedes De La Garza, owner
999 Green Street “I think of it as a story of a woman finding herself,” de la Garza says of her firm’s work at 999 Green Street. The client had been planning a move west from New York with her husband when he fell ill and passed
Walk around the nearby Sierra foothills, and you will find small pump houses dotting the landscape. These small structures were used to bring in melted snow that was converted into water and transported to nearby communities. De la Garza and the clients were charmed by the pump houses, and started their project by replicating new ones on the property. “We copied how the masons in the region made the stone, mimicked the roof slope, the steel plates, the brick archways,” de la Garza says. “They’re stone pump houses, and they’re connected by brick sidewalks. And we situated them at the foothill at the approximate places where they might have been located had they been built back in the days when they were widely used.”
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Elsewhere, de la Garza employed the talents of five different window manufacturers, with an emphasis on exterior windows transitioning into the interior spaces. “Everywhere you walk, you’re connected between spaces, and you’re encountering original structures,” she says. “The owner invites people over and tells these great stories about the house being this old ranch built a century ago over these pump houses. And people believe him, because the property really does have this historic feel, like it’s been there forever. He’s created his own history in that way.”
away in a span of three months. After considering Lake Tahoe and the Nob Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, she settled on a space located on the 15th floor of an Eichler high-rise in the Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. “She wanted a blank slate, something with less of a language to it,” de la Garza says. “We gutted and scraped every surface in the place.” The only limitations of the redesign were columns outside the building and the plumbing wall; beyond that, the sky was the limit. What was a three-bedroom became a two-bedroom, “a
De la Garza’s firm is currently underway on a project at the University of Nevada at Reno; a rehab of the first structure built on the campus. “The university is a national landmark, so there’s some jumping through flaming hoops, but it’s worth it,” she says. Having ballooned up to 15 employees in the past,
healing place where she and her daughter could recover from the loss in their life,” de la Garza says. Albertini windows, made in Verona, Italy, were brought in. “They’re exquisite, made from mahogany and with German mechanisms,” she says.
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photos: Jeff Dow, Jeff Dow Photography
create their own kind of history on this scrubby hill. It was a challenge.”
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04 The living room at 999 Green Street looks out onto the San Francisco skyline. 05 An open sitting area is adjacent to both the kitchen and dining room, featuring complementary creamy and neutral tones. 06 A cozy bedroom features a wall lined with books and two ladders for easy access.
de la Garza has streamlined her approach; there are now only two employees at Mercedes de la Garza Architect Studio. “I realized I like to stay small,” she says. “With more people it becomes too unwieldy and not as interesting. I want to make sure I keep having fun.”
A message from Sierra Integrated Systems Sierra Integrated Systems (SIS) provides the Reno-Tahoe market with customized cutting edge home technologies to fit each client’s lifestyle. SIS works with architects, interior designers and builders to integrate security, energy management, lighting control, motorized shading and audio video systems into one simple-to-use system. Find out more at www.SierraIntegratedSystems.com.
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ARCHITECTS
01 The Art Barn Completed: 2009 Location: Newport, RI The Kiawah Residence Completed: 2007 Location: Kiawah Island, SC markfinlay.com
Mark P. Finlay Architects, AIA Inside-out design that grows out of the landscape by Katjusa Cisar Architect Mark P. Finlay works from the inside out. He does not envision the building first; instead he puts himself inside it, looking out onto the hills, a cluster of trees or the beach in the distance. His process flows unconsciously, with inspiration striking sometimes at two a.m. Whenever the ideas start percolating, he brings them to life on paper. “I still design everything, draw by hand. I imagine a space first and I imagine looking out of this building onto the landscape, and then I imagine the light on the landscape at different times of day. Then I build from the inside,” says Finlay, who started his Southport, CT firm in 1984. He and his team specialize in high-end custom residences, trademark commercial buildings, historic restoration and golf clubhouse design, and pride themselves on working with clients over decades. Once the indoors fit the surrounding landscape, he allows himself to mentally step to the outside of the building and he says, “figure out what it looks like.” What he has created from within sometimes surprises him, “but most of the time it's a logical sequence, and that's why a lot of our buildings are very simple,” says Finlay. “To me, simple buildings are always the most beautiful. That's the whole beauty of the thing. It's like sculpture, that you live in.” It's occupied art."
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His inside-out method lends itself to interior design, so it made sense to hire a team of interior designers to his already-established firm. “It's just a logical sequence because I really started there. That's an interesting continuity," says Finlay. Finlay grew up in Chicago in a home full of animals — raccoons, snakes and turtles. “I actually thought I wanted to be a veterinarian, but I realized that I actually had more fun making their cages,” says Finlay. “I used to draw pictures of the cages and all the stuff I needed, and then my dad would go the store and buy me all the chicken wire and the two-by-fours.”
The Art Barn Frequent entertainers may recognize the feeling; the party is in full swing, or maybe it has settled down, but you are ready to duck off to sleep. What if you could walk out the backdoor and into a private sanctuary away from the revelers? That was the request of a client in Newport, RI. An avid collector of art, she asked Mark P. Finlay to renovate the
By the time his family moved to Connecticut when he was 14, he was skilled enough to design their home in New Canaan. “I always kind of knew what I wanted to do. I just didn't know what it was called,” he says.
1905 English country house on her property,
The greatest houses in the United States were built from 1900 to the 1920’s, he says. “You can move a contemporary lifestyle right into these houses, and it works because they're planned so well.”
1,715-square-foot building while retaining
which Finlay dubbed the Art Barn. "It's her master bedroom suite and her art collection. She sleeps with her art," Finlay says. He worked with the City of Newport's Historic District Commission to transform the its rustic character. The fresh taper-sawn red cedar roof complements the texture of the main home's slate roof. A ten-foot Zeluck window frames the interior and a
He strives for the same longevity and classic planning in the homes he designs. “I design for a 50-year plan, and that's inside and outside,” he says. “We
view of a nearby marsh and lets in generous northern light. “It's like the inside and the outside just blend together," Finlay says.
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01 The master bedroom suite was also incorporated into the new building to transform the space into a guesthouse when needed. 02 The interior of the Art Barn displays the owner’s extensive Asian and African art collection. 03 Pocket doors in the gallery provide unobstructed views of the marsh to the North and allow for natural light to flood into the space.
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210 Old Airport Road Middletown, RI 02842 P: 401-848-0150 | F. 401-848-0178 www.kirbyperkins.com
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04 Under a great canopy of Oak Trees lies this Kiawah Island Residence. The front of the house faces south with a detached garage off to the right. 05 An arched opening frames the stair hall from the entry hall for a dramatic entrance. 06 The kitchen and breakfast area are gathering spaces in the house with incredible windows providing light and views out to the marsh.
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“To me, simple buildings are always the most beautiful. That's the whole beauty of the thing. It’s like sculpture, that you live in. It’s occupied art.” Mark P. Finlay, Principal
really work with the natural elements of each piece of property — topography, trees, outcrops, all that stuff. That's the most important thing to me: how a building grows out of the property.” Fitting home to landscape was a particular challenge for a 6,200-square-foot residence he built on Kiawah, a barrier island off the coast of South Carolina that is studded with regal 250-year-old southern live oak trees. He had to accommodate guidelines of the island's Architectural Review Board as well as Mother
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Nature's typically punishing marine environment — hot and moist — with flood elevation 12 feet above ground. Finlay built accordingly, with a heavily insulated copper roof and sturdy Tischler windows designed for waterfront scenarios. He mapped the location of tree roots on the property so the live oaks hug the home just so. “The way the house is nestled in is everything on this house, the way it nestles into the forest,” he says. “In sandy soil I can get closer to trees than I can in normal topsoil.”
Finlay's classic, landscape-melding approach still allows for fun trends. He recently designed a home with a 70-foot indoor shooting range, made by Action Target and outfitted with a customized ventilation system from Carey’s Heating and AirConditioning that immediately filters out gunsmoke and other airborne impurities. The range “had to be in a spot where you could never hear it, so I ended up putting it underneath the three-car garage in a remote part of the building,” he says. “We learned a lot. They're talking now about having shooting parties. It's pretty cool.”
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ARCHITECTS
The Smith Residence Completed: 2005 Location: Tulsa, OK
Jack Arnold Companies
jackarnold.com
Decades in the design business have led this veteran down a successful road by Melissa Fears Having an eye for design and architecture since he was a teen, architect Jack Arnold began his path early on. Dedicated and motivated, the day after he graduated from school at the University of Oklahoma and received his license, Arnold started his own design firm. “The work is all his vision,” says Monica Roberts, marketing consultant for Jack Arnold Companies. “Everything originates with him listening to what the client wants to finishing the drawings.” With a plethora of custom homes around the country to add to his portfolio, Arnold can also boast plenty of design and building experience. “He knows all the building codes in each state, the terrains, and what kind of building products work
and don’t work,” says Roberts. “What is really unique about the company and Jack is that he really understands construction. There is always that classic struggle between builders and architects in that architects may have this grand vision, but the builders know that it’s not practical in the real world. That doesn’t happen with Jack.” Practicality and beauty go hand in hand with this firm, as they are known all over for their high-end European country designs. Italian, French and Mediterranean are a few of the styles that get requested the most. “He goes to the source in Europe nearly every year taking photos and sketches to bring back,” says Roberts. The firm is broken down into two com-
panies, one of which does purely custom highend homes and the other sells ready-made house plans that can be customized to the client’s taste and budget. “The client starts by coming in with their vision,” says Roberts. “Jack is a listener. He doesn’t force his vision on the client. There’s that balance.” The firm’s office is located in Tulsa, but Arnold still manages to work with clients all over the country. “It has never been a hindrance,” she says. “He will occasionally make a site visit if he needs to, but a lot of the work is done over phone or email. He will even do conference calls with builders.” Roberts warns that plans can often get lost in the final translation, saying that even minor changes to the
photo: Hawks Photography
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ARCHITECTS
The Smith Residence Livable first-floor space was a must for the retired couple of this beautiful Italian-inspired home in Tulsa, OK. “They wanted limited maintenance in materials and for it to be really comfortable and charming,” says Roberts. “They had been to Italy and wanted that look. They wanted it to be very open, have lots of outdoor living areas, fountains, outdoor fireplace, courtyards and French doors. Details, such as ceiling beams, deeply recessed windows and thick walls all add to the charm. The homeowners, along with Arnold, went to great lengths to make the home look old and authentic. Variegated red and brown tile is showcased throughout the roofline of the house. The exterior stone comes from Southern Kansas and is a near perfect match to photos the homeowners had shown. A focal point was made in the courtyard with a mini reflecting pool. The relaxing sound of the water soothes the homeowners. It was important that the master suite and living area be connected to this space. “Almost every room has a view,” says Roberts. “They wanted it to be very oriented to the outside and have dark floors, limestone countertops,
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01 The Smith Residence features a red and brown tile roof and details that perfectly capture the specifications the owner's provided. 02 Charming touches and a warm interior add to the home's comfortable living room. 03 A pop of color in the bedroom complements the neutral walls and furniture.
plans makes a big difference in the final outcome. Whether it is ceiling height, types of windows or doors or even the placement of the garage, it can make all the difference in the final result. Meticulous attention to details such as chimney caps are what make Jack Arnold Companies stand out. Starting about eight or nine years ago, Arnold came out with a line of high-end copper chimney caps that are compatible with both wood-burning and gas fireplaces.
approved by all testing agencies as well as building code compliant. It also received approval by all fireplace manufacturers to prevent warranties becoming voided. The copper is 85% recycled content, which contributes to LEED points. A lower-price point option made of steel hits the market in late 2012. “He is an innovator,” says Roberts. “He is a designer and you don’t really have to think about him in a traditional architecture sense. He has a gift of a design mind.”
The gas fireplaces require a chimney cap atop the chimney, which helps to ventilate the flue. However they can look cheap looking on an expensive home, Roberts says. A message from Renaissance HARDWOOD Floors
photos: Hawks Photography
“What was on the market at the time were either these inexpensive standard chimney caps or super heavy clay chimney pots weighing up to 500 pounds and they had to get it up with a crane,” Roberts says. “It was a huge weight load and not covered on top. Pests and water could come in.”
Custom designed and handcrafted, Renaissance Hardwood Floors are known for their quality, beauty and originality. They specialize in custom designs, which are handcrafted using only the highest quality woods. Renaissance Hardwood Floors prides itself on being a family company with a long-standing community relationship. This year, founder and owner Tom Nicklas and the Renaissance
Working with an engineer in Tulsa, Arnold was able to get his copper chimney caps UL listed,
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team are celebrating 30 years of fine craftsmanship and quality service.and problem solving.
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ARCHITECTS
The Treemont Home Completed: 2011 Location: Rollingwood/ Austin, TX
J Square Architecture, LLC
jsquarearch.com
Smart design turns ‘unbuildable’ into ‘unbelievable’ by Amy Howell Hirt While working as principals at an architecture firm in Austin, TX, James Shieh and Jay Dupont realized they shared a proclivity for using intensive site studies as the roots for a project’s direction, and a particular affinity for lots that were considered “too difficult to develop.”
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“We were both interested in the natural features of a site and how they can drive the design concept – taking something that nobody wanted to build on, and using that to our advantage to create unique spaces that work with the landscape,” Dupont says. It turns out they also have a knack for making it beautiful. In 2007, Shieh and Dupont joined forces and J Square Architecture was born. Where others see unbuildable sites, they see unique opportunities for creativity. In the rapidly growing Austin area, the architecture and interior design firm has found its niche transforming forgotten, misfit lots into enviable neighborhood jewels. While sustainable development and responsible growth have become popular marketing strategies in the industry, for Dupont and Shieh it all comes down to smart design that makes sense - for the site, the homeowner, the budget, the community and the environment. “We’re seeing a smarter client, and the trend is less quantity and more quality, which suits our sensibilities perfectly,” Shieh says. Their ability to replace constraints with creative solutions is apparent on a pie-shaped hillside lot in a gated community that sat vacant for years. To compensate for the unforgiving slope and the hot Texas sun, the architects diverged with some conventions and created a home that delivers a feast of unexpected spaces. By situating the garage closest to the street and “bridging” the home further down the hillside, they avoided the potential moisture problems and lack of natural light that come with conditioned space abutting a retaining wall. This created a cool nook between the home and hillside retaining wall, giving birth to a relaxing private courtyard. The Treemont home includes several simple, but effective sustainable techniques. Smart choices
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The Treemont Home What started as a speculative home for builder Jeffrey Cole became a work of art in progress when interior designer Malea Mason of Mason Davis Interiors purchased the Treemont Home. “This house transformed during construction,” Mason says. “It was already a great plan, we just took it to ‘grand’ with input from myself, Cole and Jay.” The team took full advantage of the home’s hillside placement and played with perspective, incorporating a wood-and-steel entry bridge that greets guests in unexpected, regal fashion. An office loft seems to “float” above the dining room, and the master bath features a cantilevered wall of windows that brings the outdoors in, contrasting a modern tub from Victoria + Albert and a light fixture from Possini. This synergy creates one of the most picturesque spaces in the dining room, where the contemporary lighting and custom recessed wine cooler play against exposed wood ceiling beams, custom Brazilian cherry flooring, Texas limestone walls and custom leather chairs by Costantini Pietro.
01 Faced with the challenges of a difficult site, the designers took advantage of the steep slope by separating the home from the slope, and sinking the private levels below. The main entry becomes a dramatic procession across the wood.
photos: Paul Bardagjy
02 The relaxed, warm contemporary living room opens to the outdoors with corner windows, transoms and sliding glass doors. The hardwood deck looks out to the expansive views and down to the pool below. 04 Walls of windows and strategically placed wood decks integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. The pool/hot tub rear terrace is the main centerpiece while the large roof overhangs and solar orientation help to shade the space from the Texas sun.
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include site placement and orientation, large roof overhangs, a lack of windows on the western wall, and preservation and use of mature trees. In addition, a tower has a chimney effect to increase natural ventilation while shading the outdoor pool and entertainment area. Of course responsibility is not always as romantic as saving a tree, and J Square’s residential designs include smart choices for nitty-gritty mechanical considerations, like placing ductwork within the home’s thermal envelope and using hybrid insulation systems, radiant barriers and thermallybroken windows. Responsible design is also cost-conscious and efficient, so Dupont and Shieh start with simple, rectilinear designs that adhere to standard material unit sizes and keep construction costs under control. Creative solutions – often inspired by their commercial experience – help deliver equal results for less. The home’s expansive windows, for example, have a commercial look but are residential-type and about half the cost, thanks to an extra support structure system developed by J Square Architecture.
“We really try to find a way to spend less and make it look like we spent more,” Dupont says. The duo has found this sensible approach is beneficial beyond individual homes and neighborhoods. “With everything we learn in our business, there are ways to give back and help the city with good design and good planning,” says Shieh, who served as a zoning and platting commissioner for Austin and currently chairs the city’s design commission, helping to reduce urban sprawl and direct development along the city’s new urban centers. Not as geographically close to home, they also provide pro bono design services for new energyefficient schools in developing countries. Given this inclusive philosophy, it only makes sense that there are no job-specific duties and no corner offices in this six-person, boutique-style firm; there is just good design that is meant to be shared. “Architecture is experienced by the masses, [and] that social responsibility is inherent in our studio environment,” Shieh says. “Everybody is involved in every project at every stage. It’s social design, where only the best solutions are implemented.”
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HILL COUNTRY MODERN Native Touch Sophisticated Living
INTERIOR DESIGN
concepts in design | malea mason, ASID
Mason Davis Interiors is a full-service design company specializing in high-end residential design and property staging.
BUILDING Special thanks to Austin TX | 512.276.0448
ARCHITECTURE J • Square Architecture 512.879.4150 | jsquarearch.com
photograph by Paul Bardagjy
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J Square is a boutique firm of visonary designers seeking to bring compassionate design to all those experiencing it through a multi-diciplined approach. FALL 2012
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NAME OF SECTION
Dedicated contractors, with a unique approach, pay keen and thoughtful attention to remodeling residences and homes from the ground up.
Malibu Colony Beach House BY TYLER DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION / p. 50 luxuryhomequarterly.com luxuryhomequarterly.com
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photos: Erhard Pfeiffer
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01 The Malibu Colony Beach House has a roof deck as well as a skylight that looks out onto the California scenery.
Malibu Colony Beach House Completed: 2011 Location: Malibu, CA tylerdev.com
02 The home's kitchen peers into an outdoor, beach front dining room. 03 Both traditional and modern touches were added to the home's exterior.
Tyler Development Corporation Reputed Californian development firm makes fantasy homes a reality by Elisa Revello In the land of beauty, glitz and glamour, where five-star luxury is standard and characters are larger than life, Tyler Development has been building custom dream homes throughout Los Angeles for over 30 years; from the hills of Bel Air to the coast of Montecito. After managing construction for developments in Southern California for ten years, Ron Udall founded his company in 1980––the year his son Tyler was born––forming his new venture around the core values of integrity, quality and professionalism.
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Eight years ago, Tyler joined the ranks in the family business after attending his father’s alma mater, UCLA, where he majored in philosophy; an unlikely course of study for a future builder. Ron studied economics and though both the father and son’s education may have led elsewhere, they found themselves in a fortunate position. “My father and I both loved development and building high-end residential homes,” Tyler says. “And now that’s evolved into our sole focus and passion.” Since its establishment, Tyler Development has finished approximately 250 homes, now completing an average of seven homes per year. Throughout the course of their success, Ron has ensured the company’s integrity stayed intact. Their work includes all sizes of residential houses from relatively small to 40,000 square feet, with a recent influx of modern designs where there are more traditional touches. Each home is distinct and constructed with exquisite attention to detail. “Because of individual needs and the variety of materials available today, every project remains a prototype,” Tyler says. “Each project is unique.”
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Malibu Colony Beach House The luxury beach house, a 7,000-square-foot residence, is located on a prime beachfront in the Malibu Colony, a prestigious community in Southern California. Landry Design Group has collaborated closely with Tyler Development and has created a relationship over the years, helping to design over 20 projects. The beach house is the sixth house built for the client by Tyler Development, who employed interior designer Kathryne Dahlman for the project. The owners wanted a Cape Cod feel and the design team slightly modernized the home using clean and crisp finishes on the interior while preserving the traditional elements. The unique roof deck is equipped with a skylight that is motorized and opens up the staircase on to the roof terrace, which allows an incredible view of the ocean, coastline and pier, but it also allows for a look back toward the mountains in the east.
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04 Open views from the bedroom allow fresh air to circulate throughout. 05 An elegant bathroom is surrounded in white walls and floor, and the windows look out onto the ocean.
photos: Erhard Pfeiffer
06 The impressive roof deck has ample seating and intimate lighting that contribute to other relaxing features such as a jacuzzi.
Starting as an on-site superintendent, Tyler learned all the facets of the building business from the ground up. He is currently vice president of the company, working alongside his father and in conjunction with project managers and superintendents. The combination of his father’s leadership and solid business model, along with Tyler’s fresh approach, has contributed to the modernization of the company.
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“We have a good balance of experience and a cutting-edge way of managing projects, which is the evolution of where we are today,” Tyler says. Heading LEED initiatives and business development, Tyler’s goal is to broaden the company’s client base and ensure that his father’s legacy continues. Recently, the father-son team was selected to build an art gallery for reputed New York gallery owner, Matthew Marks, because of their expertise with high-level modern finishes. No matter the project, Tyler Development always provides premier service and has inevitably acquired a notable list of clients, including high-level executives and celebrities. The majority of the company’s work comes from repeat business, while the balance represents new clientele from referrals. “It is our responsibility to look out for our clients’ best interest financially with a focus on delivering the highest quality,” Ron says. “In many ways we act as a concierge service offering the best of what they need to complete the home they envision. The process needs to be transparent and understandable, allowing the owner to make informed decisions. By offering the clearest information possible the process can be relaxed and enjoyable.”
The firm has a dependable team of 25 people, some of whom have been with the company for over 20 years. This team sources materials and works with highly skilled craftsmen, artisans and subcontractors, locally and internationally, who work with the company to complete the projects. “The long-term relationships we’ve developed with these premier subcontractors, as well as notable architects, and design firms, allows the company to deliver the finest results.” Tyler says. Ron says that, “it is our job to bring the design team’s vision to reality in the most efficient and cost effective way possible.These challenges keep us on our toes and make building custom homes exciting and satisfying.” Though the company has secured a Golden Nugget Award, and has been featured in numerous magazines and recently in Perspectives on Design California, Tyler feels the true benefits of the business are not tangible. “It’s our continued relationships with clients, many of whom have remained close friends, that make our efforts worthwhile,” Tyler says. “Watching people enjoy the home they dreamed of is the true thrill we experience in this exciting business.”
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builders
01 Sterling at Silverleaf Completed: 2011 Location: Scottsdale, AZ Paradise Valley Custom Home Completed: 2008 Location: Paradise Valley, AZ lustercustomhomes.com
Luster Custom Homes Scottsdale custom home builder combines technology and innovation with luxurious finishes by Jessica Kirby
The North Scottsdale-based company produces high-end, residential remodelling and new build projects with a sizeable scope, many for homeowners who wish to implement green features into their new space. Where the company’s competition may be in established firms with a particular way of doing business, Luster’s process is driven by change. “Whether it’s advanced framing techniques, sealing a home air tight, or using hybrid water systems, we really stay ahead on what are the latest improvements in the building industry,” says Luster. “At the same time we are always looking at third party verification and making sure we also use tested technologies to build more efficiently on the green side. This really sets us apart in our market.”
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Over the years, the business has evolved to highend homes for clients with a taste for luxury, and is moving in the direction of overseeing projects and coordinating the process from start to finish. “We like to get a client and be the overarching person to coordinate with the designers and help foster the right choices,” he says. This type of coordination and collaboration is evident in one of the company’s signature projects. The Silverleaf gated community in North Scottsdale, which is tucked into the canyons of the McDowell Mountains, is easily Arizona’s most prestigious community; a natural, high-desert sanctuary with sweeping landscapes and mountain vistas. Design in a high-end community with stringent design standards can be challenging, but the careful balance of efficiency and aesthetic is Luster’s specialty and something the company achieved at Silverleaf. As the official builder for the project, the company will oversee construction on nine single-family villas in the first phase, in addition to 12 larger estates in the second phase and 29 luxury homes in the third and final phase. “We took great care to create a true sense of arrival both within the community and each home,” Luster says. “From the soothing exterior color palette to the lush landscaping and beautiful precast accents adorning the doors and
01 The vast pool surrounded by palm trees adds to the home's exterior. 02 The shades used in the home's guest house mimic the colors of the surrounding sandy beaches and ocean.
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photos: michael baxter baxterimaging.com
Tanner Luster keeps his custom home building company, Luster Custom Homes, on the forefront of innovation with a continuous investment in professional development and implementation of the latest in green building technologies. With no reductions in staff and now in a perpetual growth cycle, Luster attributes his company’s success to a continuous investment in the development of his employees and implementation of the latest technologies available in the industry.
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Paradise Valley Custom Home The Paradise Valley home in its namesake community near the Scottsdale border captures a distinct Tuscan taste with a lighter flavor using softer colors and natural materials. The home features natural stone canterra on the exterior, stacked concrete barrel tile on the roof and iron window and door accents. “The house has a lot of symmetry in its footprint,” says Luster. “The use of wood beams in the ceilings ties in with the exterior stone and inside with canterra on the masonry-built fireplaces.” Stone work appears in the interior walls and throughout in wainscotting. A light and uplifting interior palette of creamy whites and gentle blues is a soft, welcoming backdrop for hints of flare such as crystals set into the fan. Amish-made solid wood cabinets are a natural fit against natural stone on the floor and backsplashes.
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03 The kitchen showcases a Wolf cooktop, custom cabinetry, Brizo pot filler, and limestone countertops. 04 The exterior displays the true Mediterranean architecture and symmetry of the design with the lush landscaped courtyard.
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05 The living room displays a hand-forged iron stair railing with bellied iron balcony, expansive windows, wood beam ceilings and limestone floors. 06 The master bath highlights the custom cabinets with bun feet, Bridge faucets, hand-cut marble and limestone floors, with a large rain showerhead.
windows of each villa, every visitor to Sterling at Silverleaf will depart feeling as if they’ve experienced a different world. We want them to own that experience.” The first home constructed in the development is the first LEED Gold-certified residential building in Arizona. It runs 74% more efficiently than a conventional home and without solar power generation.
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photos 3,5,6: Dino Tonn dinotonn.com • photo 4 :michael baxter
Luster says getting in early enough to consult during the design and construction phases made achieving—and disguising—the ambitious energy measures possible. “It looks like a beautiful custom home,” says Luster. “You wouldn’t know it is also super efficient.” Stylistically, the process is driven by clients, but Luster brings perspective and vision to the design process. The homes, says Luster, have a beautiful precast concrete exterior and unique landscaping details including a common area greened with a lot of turf, fountains and planting. “We created a Mediterranean village using olive trees and specific greenery. We don’t push a certain style–we’ve done some inspirational projects from super contemporary to hand-carved wood interiors. The important thing is always communication–to make sure that we have a clear understanding of the homeowner’s dream and that they know exactly where we stand every step of the way,” Luster says.
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“The important thing is always communication–to make sure that we have a clear understanding of the homeowner’s dream and that they know exactly where we stand every step of the way.” Tanner Luster, Owner
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A message from Crestron Crestron Electronics is the leading provider of control systems for homes. Crestron provides the ultimate technology lifestyle. No matter where you are, or what you do, with Crestron you're always connected. You don't need multiple remotes just to watch television, or a wall filled with switches and knobs that take you three tries to find the right light. Take control of your home with just one button press from a sleek touchscreen, designer engraved keypad or your iPad™, iPhone® or iPod® touch. Select a movie to watch or music to enjoy from your favorite chair. Adjust your lights, shades, temperature and check on your alarm system without getting out of bed. The comfort and convenience of the ultimate technology lifestyle can be yours.
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The Pan Project Completed: 2011 Location: Arcadia, CA racepointinc.com
Race Point, Inc. Timeless beauty and quality craftsmanship are the cornerstones of success for this Southern California builder by Isabel Eva Bohrer
01 The classic composition and detailing of this estate home recalls the villas of the Mediterranean. The sun-warmed color of the home is accented by wood shutters, stained wood rafter tails and cast-stone details. 02 A series of windows illuminate the sinuous curve of the stairs while the warmth of the hard wood treads create a counterpoint to the marblefloored foyer. 03 The back of the home stretches out in two wings to embrace the large pool deck area. 04 An elegant archway leads into the formal dining room from the main gallery and is directly across from the formal living room. The room itself is generously proportioned for a ten-foot long table and two sideboards.
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For more than 30 years, Race Point, Inc. has been delivering quality, integrity and value in high-end residential custom homes, historic renovation and commercial projects across the Greater Los Angeles area. “Today, the reference to Race Point is meant to evoke an era of craftsmanship and timeless beauty – expressed in our commitment to ‘doing a job right’ that goes into each Race Point project along with the integrity to stand behind every job once completed,” the company says. It was back in 1987, when President Keith Miller moved his office to Studio City, that he first began working with his future partner, Paul Kinney, on a project that subsequently became the cover of the April 1995 Architectural Digest. Soon after, Kinney became a principal and vice president at Race Point, Inc., helping to define the firm’s policy and procedures to guarantee that the office is run efficiently, and that field operations are conducted successfully. Miller and Kinney now share equally in the management and operation of Race Point, Inc. to bring their excellence and experience to every project the company accepts. Race Point, Inc. does not specialize in any one style. In addition to residential construction, the company has also built a very high-end, award winning recording studio, restaurants and office buildings. Nevertheless, a large portion of the work is major remodeling. In 2009, Race Point, Inc. finished a restoration and addition of a Beverly Hills, 9,000-square-foot Italian Villa built in 1936. “The challenge when doing a historic restoration is understanding the building
methods of that era and duplicating them,” says Miller. In fact, a large portion of Race Point, Inc.’s work pertains to understanding and matching the original methodology and style. One very important aspect of Race Point, Inc. is its relationship with the architects and designers. “We have had the privilege of working with the most talented architects and interior designers in Southern California - providing personal service to meet the design professional’s intent and the owner’s wishes,” the partners say. In fact, the company’s primary marketing is focused on architects and designers. “Race Point is the artist’s paint brush. Our job is to understand the architect’s/ designer’s vision and design intent and help bring it to life,” says Miller and Kinney. Always protecting the design team, Race Point, Inc. “has built its reputation on providing true value by maintaining high quality with an aggressive schedule,” Kinney says. Through their long-time experience in the industry, they have learned to manage delays beyond their control, such as changing orders initiated by the client. “The schedule is a living, breathing entity in and onto itself,” says Kinney. “We have established a reputation of completing projects ahead of time by adjusting the schedule every two weeks and keeping the design team informed to make sure to hit the milestones. All in all, Race Point, Inc. prides itself in being proactive, not reactive. The fact that there are two principals is another distinguishing factor. “We can
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05 Intimately scaled, this living room is at once cozy and formal. 06 The home theater is located conveniently off the family gathering areas. Comfortable sofa seating for a smaller group as well as theater seating on upper tiers are both provided. 07 The high barrel-vaulted ceiling of the main kitchen is accented with suspended lanterns that repeat the rhythm of the arches. Three large arches open from the kitchen to the breakfast nook and family room, providing definition between the spaces while still promoting flow and openness.
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The Pan Project With the Pan Project, Race Point, Inc. wanted to achieve “what we always want to achieve: [to be] on budget, ahead of schedule [and provide] top quality. All that equals a happy client,” Miller and Kinney say. In this case, the clients, a family with three children, are thrilled with their new home. Race Point, Inc. is proud of the many arches that dominate the construction. In order to maximize efficiency when building groin-vault arches, a particularly labor intensive process, Race Point, Inc. utilized a new product from the company Arch Right. “The arches arrived in a laminated MDF all pre-arched to the architect’s specification and field verified," the partners say. "Although the product wasn’t a cost savings, the labor to install them was cut down by 75%, saving time on the schedule.” All this contributed to making the consistency and accuracy superior, a fact that characterizes Race Point, Inc.'s approach
photos: Michael Arden
to building as a whole.
both do each other’s job but we have separated our responsibilities so that one partner doesn’t wear too many hats,” says Miller. Race Point, Inc. can also provide value engineering to the project if asked. “Many times, especially in an economy like this one, we can draw on our hands-on experience and offer a more cost effective solution to achieve the Architect’s design without sacrificing quality,” the partners say. In fact, every Race Point, Inc. client will see a principal on his/her project every day. Race Point, Inc. builds lasting relationships with clients during the construction process, and virtually all of its projects are a result of referrals and repeat clients. As for the future, the company would like to continue what they do best: high-end residential; the goal always being to build houses that will last for hundreds of years to come.
A message from Objekt Designs OBJEKT designs is a interior design firm that focuses on creating spaces that exceed client expectations. Partner’s Cee Atcheson and Don Cordova take pride in their careful attention to detail combined with sharp management strategies to bring a shared vision to life. A message from Race Point, Inc./LCRA LCRA would like to express our thanks and appreciation to Racepoint Construction for their excellent execution of our design. Their detailed and efficient project management is rarely found in the world of residential construction. The most satisfying result, happy clients, was achieved by our smooth and mutually appreciative working relationship.
3111 second avenue, ste. 4 corona del mar, ca. 92625 objektdesigns.com
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The Rosedale Residence Completed: 2011 Location: Dallas, TX ellengrassoinc.com
Ellen Grasso Inc. A family business focused on building homes for the modern family by Isabel Eva Bohrer “As a child, I had neighborhood kids picking up construction debris from job sites so that I could make things or remodel the vacant servants quarters at my house,” says Ellen Grasso. “I constantly pestered my mother with, ‘I want to make something!’” She felt compelled to improve every house she ever lived in, including the brand new condominium she moved into right out of college.
never have thought of,” she says. She cites having used felt inside pocket door spaces, the right kind of hooks in kids’ lockers for their backpacks, built-in storage for Christmas wrapping supplies, room for the second refrigerator in the pantry, built-in shampoo boxes in all bathtubs and a conduit that will allow AV systems to be updated as technology changes.
Today, Grasso is the leading force behind Ellen Grasso Inc., a small family-owned building company run by herself and her two sons. “Each day I remember how lucky I am to get to see my grown kids everyday,” she says. Grasso traces her own inspiration back to her mother, whom she remembers as “an amazingly intelligent woman” with “great taste.” She says, “[my sons] also inspire me to work harder because I am their role model just as my mother was mine. It's a big circle, and one I like!”
Completely committed to the details, Grasso says she views each house she builds, “like another child. I have aspirations for my houses. I want them to grow up and do well.” To her, each house has its own personality, and it is by working with this personality that the end product will ultimately shine, says Grasso. “My clients usually give me a funny look when I tell them this before we start, but by the end they get it,” she says.
Together, she and her two sons work on comfortable family homes; “built for real people, not for show,” says Grasso. A family person through and through, Grasso also sometimes refers clients to her husband, Charles Isreal, who has been designing houses in Dallas for 40 years. “If someone comes to me without plans, I suggest him,” Grasso says. “If they have plans, I go over the plans with them to see what can be improved,” she says. It is here that a defining factor of her work comes in: her attention to detail. “My clients frequently mention that I implemented ideas for them that are tiny details that make all the difference, but that they would
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Having been in the construction industry for over 32 years, and building homes for more than 10 years, Grasso builds strong, long-lasting relationships with her clients. “All of my clients are clients and friends for life,” she says. “They know that if they call me for something in five weeks or five years, I will answer my phone and take care of it immediately, even if it's doing a repair for their mother.” When being asked which project she has found the most rewarding, she says, “really? You are asking me which child I favor!” It is an impossible question for Grasso as she loves all the houses she has built. “I can remember details in houses for years and years,” she says.
01 Not your mother's form of traditional, but a modern house that still fits into a traditional neighborhood. 02 This cool, refreshing dining room is the perfect setting for lovely holiday dinners.
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Rosedale Residence When building 3629 Rosedale, Grasso wanted what she always wants: for her clients to feel like their house surpassed their expectations. In fact, she recalls that upon finishing the project, owner Julie Stevenson “burst into tears because her house was so amazing that she could not believe it was hers.” Some of the unique features include a fireplace wall in the family room with floating shelves. The Vintage Vein tile comes from Materials Marketing (mstoneandtile.com) and the fireplace itself from Isokern (earthcore.co). To keep with the theme of “not too traditional,” Grasso had the firebrick stacked in a contemporary style. The floating shelves on either side of the fireplace were custom made pieces with small
photos: Danny Piassick
lights tucked inside the shelves so that each space can be illuminated to show the owner’s wonderful collection of hand-blown glass. Further noteworthy design elements include the two-inch thick Alaskan White kitchen granite from IMC (imcstone.com), fabricated by Optimum Marble (optimummarble.com). All of the furniture in the house, in turn, was custom made by Delaney Warren (delaneywarren.com).
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03 A metropolitan family room at its best. 04 The bedroom's decor provides a calm elegance. 05 This well lit, expansive kitchen is perfect for cooking and entertaining. 06 The bright, airy bathroom looks out onto the home's landscape.
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All in all, Grasso prefers building lots of different style houses. “We are not a one-trick pony!” she says. When starting a project, she immerses herself in the style of a design, and meets with the respective client to get a feel for his or her personal style. “[I then] merge the two with detail decisions that are tastefully appropriate,” she says. Throughout the design process, she makes a point to meet both with the client and the architect to ensure that the finished project is both unique and within the client’s budget. Grasso refers to this work ethic of hers as, “the VERY involved style of building.”
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A message from H20 Supply H2O Supply, Inc. is a family owned company, serving the Dallas/Fort Worth community since 1998. We offer unsurpassed customer service and the greatest selection of wholesale commercial and residential plumbing products. H2O Supply is dedicated to providing quality service, excellent products and prompt delivery. We sell kitchen, bath and plumbing products at our designer showroom and warehouse located in Lewisville, Texas and online at H2Osupply.net.
2535-B E.HWY 121 #140 Lewisville, TX 75056 P: 972.242.2289 | F: 972.242.4648 www.h2osupply.net
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Leap of Faith Residence Completed: 2007 Location: Harbor Springs, MI adelaineconstruction.com
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Adelaine Construction Inc. building quality homes and lasting relationships by Melissa Fears Building a custom luxury home can be tricky business. But when the home in question is a gorgeous 5,500-square-foot home perched above the wellappointed town of Harbor Springs, MI, it can turn into a masterpiece. With a reputation for precisely elegant interiors, Adelaine Construction Inc. has in the decades of its existence accumulated an impressive client base. Steve Adelaine incorporated Adelaine Construction Inc. in 1992 after building with his father for nearly 20 years. Adelaine is a licensed builder in Michigan specializing in all forms of construction, but his passion for woodworking is best represented in his favorite form: log construction. A family-run business, daughter Melissa Adelaine-Supernault and son Noah Adelaine have also joined the ranks at the successful firm running everyday tasks. He has built many homes from the foundation up; from cutting the trees on the property to laying the first foundation block to setting the ceiling rafters. His vast knowledge of building allows him to visualize every aspect of a project and ensure each task is done with accuracy. That quality could hardly be more fitting for a house set in a lakeside grove with beautiful Lake Michigan views. “The vaulted ceiling throughout the main floor was to be drywalled, but once it was framed and the 30-foot arch [was] built, it just called to be finished in clear cedar tongue and groove,” Adelaine-Supernault says. “It’s a striking feature in the home that feels like you’re looking at a beautiful handcrafted wooden ship’s hull.”
Leap of Faith Residence Carefully taking advantage of all the natural light and amazing views of Lake Michigan, this lightfilled dwelling resonates energy throughout the property. The entrance to the home is on the second floor, which can be accessed through the garage that is recessed into the foundation level of the home with a staircase or elevator. The cedar shake siding has full log corners, while the decks are covered in Trex decking (trex.com) and Feeney Wire stainless steel cable wire (feeneywire.com). The main house is covered with quarter-sawn oak flooring and the guest quarters in the second garage are outfitted with stained and stamped concrete floors. Clear cedar trims and tongue and groove paneling cover the main floor ceiling and lower level wainscoting. The guest quarters have
A one-hundred-foot long deck was built around a large boulder and a tree, which makes for a beautiful spot to watch the sunset across Lake Michigan, says Adelaine-Supernault.
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intricate tray ceiling detail covered in tongue and groove cedar and basket woven oak. Michigan maple butcher-block countertops (mapleblock.com) and custom birch cabinets liven up the kitchen space. Much of the home’s colorful artwork was commissioned, which complements the amazing artistic energy of the home.
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01 The dynamic vaulted ceiling in the kitchen shows off the clear cedar paneling. Custom birch base cabinetry with open upper shelves line the walls, complementing the quarter sawn oak flooring. Suspended on stainless steel cables, the lighting has minimal impact on the room.
photos: Dave Speckman, Speckman Photography
02 The stairway snakes around an elevator that was incorporated into the home for the owners and their extended family. 03 The dining room features a 30-foot arc. A custom steel truss was designed by Adelaine and crafted locally to hold the arc's windows. The custom commissioned rug is made of pressed felt. Petoskey Stone, a locally found limestone fossil, was designed into the rug with vibrant blues reflecting Lake Michigan. 04 The guest suite, which is a part of the two-story, eight-car garage, has a woven ceiling comprised of oak panels.
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“The ‘Leap of Faith’ house was truly a labor of love for the homeowner/architect and our team,” says Adelaine-Supernault. “Right before we started construction the homeowner/architect had a major health concern and didn’t honestly believe he might be here to enjoy the home, but his daughter told him to ‘take a leap of faith’ and move forward.” The homeowners Fred and Marita currently live there full time; they fell in love with the “vacation” home and sold their Tennessee residence. “The project kept talking to us and evolved as we built it,” says Adelaine-Supernault. “Not all projects go this way, but it was a very special project
for us and the homeowners. The total construction took a little over a year for the main house. Then a few years after completion, we went back and built the two-story garage and guest quarters, where you park on both levels and can house over eight cars and a mechanics lift.” A few years after that was completed, Adelaine went back and built “Fred’s Folly,” which is a log pergola and outdoor entertaining space with a majestic view of the water. The house was designed to blend in with the property, says the firm. Much of the landscaping is indicative of natural plants and rocks in Northern Michigan.
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- Architecture - Interior Design 891 West Conway Road, Unit #16 Harbor Springs, MI 49740 Ph. (231) 348-8624
On this project the client was the architect, which is rare, but very rewarding, says Adelaine-Supernault. “We very much had to have faith in him as some things we didn’t understand on paper; like why don’t the walls go to the ceiling. Or you want glass panels in the powder room wall? And he had to have faith that we could execute his vision.”
They relished the challenges they faced, and the firm still looks back fondly on the building process. “Whether it’s the bald eagles that gave us a weekly flyby, the water spouts that we hid in the newly poured foundation for safety from the fox that inspected everyone’s lunch box, it’s about the lasting relationship we built with the homeowner and his family,” she says.
a message from FAH Architect “Leap of Faith” is designed to showcase leaps in lifestyle, design and construction while appreciating the vista view of Lake Michigan. Adelaine Construction and FAH Architecture’s skills are evident throughout. Thank you Adelaine Construction for your fine craftsmanship in our “Leap of Faith.”
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photos: Dave Speckman, Speckman Photography
The corners of the home are covered in large logs, which to the homeowner represent the trees that were removed in construction for the house to be built. Additionally, the east elevation (front) of the house was done in red and white cedar shakes that were woven into patterns of Canadian geese flying over the horizon. “The two-story house was essentially recessed into the top of the hill making it look as if the round of the 30-foot eyebrow follows the original lines of the crest [shape] of the hill,” says Adelaine-Supernault.
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The Douglas Residence Completed: 2011 Location: Wilmington, NC
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Whitney Blair Custom Homes High-caliber architecture and design meets waterfront site by Melissa Fears Clarity of vision distinguishes North Carolina builder Whitney Blair Custom Homes from the rest of the pack in the coastal area of southeastern North Carolina. Its luxurious yet restrained projects have won the firm the respect of the many leading designers and publications. Founder and owner Jeff Sanderson is responsible for establishing the company vision, then ensuring selection of a talented team to support him in home design, interior home selections and executing field construction operations. It is a onestop building solution in home design, custom construction and interior design support.
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photos: G. Frank Hart
“Our staff includes a talented blend of registered and certified professionals that allows clients to take advantage of in-house custom residential design services and also have the confidence in knowing that what was designed in-house is what is being built in the field,” Lisa Sanderson, manager at Whitney Blair, says. “This value engineering and workflow minimizes the potential for costly field errors during the actual construction phase.” Dedicated interior design support allows clients to feel confident in their selections. Interior designer Vicky Serany, who is the principal/ owner of Southern Studio Interior Design, puts the final elements together. The firm was started in the early 1980’s in Chapel Hill, NC as a land development and speculative building company, named after the owner's two daughters. Once the reputation of the company was established, interest grew to include a desire from clients for custom residence construction in higher-end communities in the Chapel Hill and Durham areas. With a retiree market increasing,
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Douglas Residence The lakeside home’s exterior is a hard-coat applied stucco over a perimeter shell of masonry block veneer to help prevent moisture. The focal point of the 28-foot foyer is the freestanding wrought iron circular staircase, with cherry handrails and handcrafted wrought iron railing. A strategic mix of materials was used in the flooring including limestone tile and American Cherry hardwoods stained to a provincial walnut. A mixture of exotic granites and woods enhance the kitchen counters and breakfast bar area, complemented by a complete line of Thermador appliances. The use of heavily textured grass cloth and cork wall coverings in the living room and client’s office provide a striking contrast to the intricate coffered ceiling features. The master bedroom wing includes a private laundry, separate baths and dressing rooms. Other prominent features include a massage room, as well as a gallery hall collection of Old World oil paintings.Â
04 01 The sitting area is an expansive room with large pillars and floorto-ceiling windows.
03 Granite and wood counters provide a subtle contrast to the kitchen's white cabinetry. 04 The brightly-lit exterior reflects off the surrounding lake.
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photos: G. Frank Hart
02 A combination of patterns, such as a classic oriental rug and leopard-print chair, adds texture to the home.
“It is our goal to ensure everything from the overall design, function and form of the home to interior selections and finishes completely fulfills [our clients] needs and desires.” Lisa Sanderson, Manager
the company ultimately moved operations to the coastal area of southeastern North Carolina in 2000 and continues in business there today, building custom homes around the area. “Our true love is design & construction founded in Southern vernacular architecture, but we have built homes ranging from Mediterranean designs to cottage bungalows based upon our clients' desires,” says Lisa. Finding energy-efficient ways to build custom homes is one of Whitney Blair’s specialties. They pride themselves in having a niche as a small custom builder that is capable of providing true in-house custom home design; in-house residential design services coupled with construction and interior design support helps to differentiate them from other firms. “We are pleased to hold several designations & affiliations including NAHB Certified Green Professionals, Energy Star partners building only ENERGY STAR qualified homes, an NCHBA Accredited Builder, and a member of the Southern Living Custom Builder Program, and past recipient of the Southern Living Custom Builder of the Year award,” says Lisa. With a majority of Whitney Blair clients based out of the area and planning to retire, they have recently employed the use of an advanced cloud-based project management system with an interactive and userfriendly client interface. “Not only will our clients be able to view the construction schedule of their home, the system allows them to make and approve home selections, change orders and submit questions via email as they wish,” says Lisa. “This allows the client to have one central location where any and all documents, home ideas/selections, approvals and communications related to the construction of their home are stored.” The majority of their clientele are active retirees looking to build one final custom home that fulfills all of their past homes' unmet needs and desires, Lisa says.
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“We can best meet this goal by retaining our existing niche and refining our internal processes to provide as seamless, stress free and enjoyable a process as possible for our clients.” Finding a balance between privacy and spectacular views was the main concern for the Douglas Residence. The home is positioned on an estate lot located in a gated community in Wilmington, NC, with spectacular water and golf course views. “Our design team's challenge was to position the home on the homesite so that maximum views were captured off the rear of the home, while still providing the feeling of privacy despite the presence of existing residences close by,” says Jeff. “It was the client's desire to capture the amazing views, and to have a home designed for the client's extensive collection of antiques and art, allowing entertaining and living on one floor with a completely private second level for guests.” Paying close attention to client’s needs is paramount in achieving the company’s success. “Our clients are savvy, smart and mature customers that know what they want in their home,” Jeff says. “It is our goal to ensure everything from the overall design, function and form of the home to interior selections and finishes completely fulfills their needs and desires.”
a message from Pella Windows Pella Window & Door Company has distributed Pella’s full line of quality windows and doors in North Carolina and Southwest Virginia for over 45 years. Viewed to be the Best since 1925, Pella is your choice for design, solid manufacturing, and local service. With experienced and skilled professionals never far away, on-time delivery, and service after the sale, all your window and door needs will be covered. Visit one of our local showrooms today. nc.pella.com
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Rock Crest Residence Completed: 2010 Location: Bryn Mawr, PA waverlycustomhomes.com
Waverly Custom Homes, LLC Elegant 20th-century remodel preserves the past by Jamie Farshchi Michael Haines and his staff have been known to shop for groceries for their clients. They have made dinner, picked up dry cleaning as well as assisted with the tasks that might be more traditionally associated with building a home, such as narrowing down tile samples. “Our clients are extremely busy,” says Michael Haines, owner of Waverly Custom Homes, LLC located in Bryn Mawr, PA. “We try and make it as easy for them as we can.” Taking cues from the hotel industry, the concierge service not only improves the efficiency of the building process, but it also betters the company’s relationships with its clients. After working in real estate development and residential construction, Haines established Waverly Custom Homes in 2003. The company serves greater Philadelphia and undertakes both remodel and new construction projects, with much of its work located in some of the most desired communities on Philadelphia’s Main Line. “Having grown up only a mile from our office in Bryn Mawr, the preservation of land in the area is important to me,” he says. “I want to make sure it’s there for my children. Even when we’re building a new construction you want to consider the surroundings. We always take into account the history of the area, the street, the site and the buildings that surround it.” Haines says maintaining the integrity of the
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area, both historically and environmentally, is a primary focus. “It’s not just a job for us,” Haines says. “We spend a lot of time at the initial stage of the project just to understand the client’s needs. There are thousands of decisions to be made and within those thousands of decisions there are thousands of options. We try and make the process as easy and efficient as possible.” That kind of consideration is evident in the firm’s work. A recent project featured a breakfast pantry in the master bedroom complete with freezer drawers so the client could easily fulfill her preference for ending the day with a frozen yogurt nightcap. “We really rely on that initial process,” Haines says. “This is the client’s dream home, the one they will raise their family in, [so] it’s important that they are comfortable telling you what they really want.” The company works extensively with the client in the initial stages of the project, assisting with everything from land acquisition to interior design. “We want to provide the client with what they’re missing in their current home,” Haines says. “That goes for the actual site as well as the residence; if they want more area for kids to play we consider that. We recommend architects that will work well with them based on their needs and
01 Painstaking efforts were made to restore the historic family residence while maintaining the integrity of the original 1928 manor home. 02 The newly constructed porte cochere and guest house feature reclaimed stone and roofing tiles and are in keeping with the original architecture. 03 View from under the porte cochere leading from the guest house to the main home.
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Rock Crest Residence Located on a sycamore-lined street in a sought after Main Line community, Rock Crest is an elegant remodel of a 20th-century home. The house was gutted and painstakingly restored; the reconfigured space and modern amenities bringing the historic family residence into the present while maintaining the integrity of the photos: Trevor Feight
original 1928 manor home. Reclaimed Belgian Blue Stone by Devon Tile stretches through the center hall providing a contrast to the bright, airy interior. The original, restored wrought iron staircase and chandelier add traditional accents. The breakfast nook, the sole new addition to the house, takes cues from the homes English Tudor style, with American walnut flooring by Carlisle Wide Plank Flooring and mahogany window casings from Norwood. The master suite features a large bathroom incorporating a closet and dressing area. The black and white marble tile from Devon Tile complements the original wrought iron ceiling details.
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04 The original mantel and plaster moldings were meticulously restored to their original splendor in the formal dining room. 05 This classic kitchen was crafted with the finest materials and hand painted on site. 06 The American Walnut butler’s pantry is the perfect holding place for fine china and cutlery. 07 The pool house kitchen was hand crafted by Morgan Hill Cabinetry. The home’s original ice box and butler’s pantry sink have been masterfully incorporated in the reclaimed barn wood millwork.
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will create their dream home for them in the best way possible.”
photos: Trevor Feight
Along with catering to the needs of clients, the company also utilizes green options such as in its lighting fixtures, and advocates the use of reclaimed materials on all its builds and remodels. “It’s not just the green aspect, I prefer the character of the older materials. I like the residence to look like it grew out of the ground, like it has been there forever,” Haines says. Waverly Custom Homes also operates a millwork company, providing custom cabinetry and woodwork.
us from the pack.” Waverly Custom Homes takes a considered, personal approach to the building process and it is the human element that Haines says he particularly enjoys. “I like to be involved personally on all of the projects.” he says. “I really enjoy it. I do it for selfish reasons; it’s nice to work one on one with the customers.”
A message from orion electric Orion Electric is a full service electrical contracting company with over 25 years experience. Orion Electric has been serving the Greater Philadelphia Area
“It’s a passion of mine,” Haines says. “It is what led me to start the company. We employ highly skilled craftsman–our lead carpenters span three generations of master craftsmen, and that’s what separates
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customizing in electrical layout and lighting design. We strive for full customer satisfaction. We have consistently maintained our high standards through attention to detail and open communication with clients.
Ph. 215.572.1829 OrionElectric@comcast.net
builders
The Severson House Completed: 2008 Location: Juda, WI qualitydefined.com
Michael F. Simon Builders Adapting 120 years of tradition for contemporary building by Andrew Santa Lucia
What sets apart Michael F. Simon Builders is its dedication to visualizing what the final outcome of construction will be, as well as a command of the building process, along with a commitment to environment, both architectural and ecological. When asked about the typical project, Simon says that the “construction schedule is given to the owner’s once construction starts and our project manager holds weekly meetings on-site with the owners.” Typical issues with construction stem from unforeseen circumstances, which Michael F. Simon Builders works to mitigate because as Simon says, “surprises are not fun for anyone involved, which is why we value communication with the owners so much… we strive to have our clients have fun throughout each step of the building process and if we succeed with that, we will have happy clients.” As seen by their long list of completed projects, happy clients have led to even happier referrals. In having command over the relevant processes of building and remodeling homes, Michael F. Simon
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01 The inspiration for the staircase came from the client’s travels to the royal summer palace in Fontainebleau, south of Paris. 02 The kitchen features details from the clients' Charlotte home.
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photos: Urban Photo Co.
Michael F. Simon Builders has been a staple in the custom home industry for many years. Throughout the last century, the company has developed a strong tradition of quality, but more importantly it has an internalized understanding of what homes can become and how to accomplish that through dedication to detail, construction methods and finishes. “In 1893, Michael Simon began constructing farm buildings for a dollar a day and by the turn of the century, he had diversified into residential and commercial buildings in the Waunakee, WI area,” says Philip Simon, grandson of founder Michael and current principal of the family firm. In 1950, his father Michael F. Simon, Jr. took over the building business until 1980, when his son Michael P. took the helm, along with Philip and Peter Simon. Four generations and 120 years later, the Simon’s firm is a leader in construction and renovations of homes in the Midwest and abroad.
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The Severson House Once inside the Severson house, visitors encounter a sculptural horseshoe staircase flanked by ornate columns. Through an archway adorned with smaller columns, the living room is decorated in a subtle white, in contrast to the lively blue decor of the dining room. Making your way up the stairs takes you to a landing, under which an elliptical dome is tucked into the ceiling and is reminiscent of a skyscape. The landing leads you into a billiard room with a ceiling inversely reflecting the steep gabled roof of the exterior. Back downstairs, the design of the kitchen is imported from the Severson’s Charlotte home and features generous counter space of Juparana Gold and Champagne Black, exposed ceiling beams--one of Bob Severson’s few requests--immaculate handmade maple cabinetry with a glaze finish and a dining area that juts out just enough to give the visitor an incredible view of the rolling countryside in three directions.
Builders continuously holds its crew and partners to an incredibly high standard. “In house we target a zero-punch list when we finish a home,” says Simon when referring to completing all the initial goals of the project. “When remodeling, our main goals are to give the owner a space that fits their needs and make it look like the addition has always been part of the home.” This attention to the “before” condition of a client’s house leads to a new, but familiar “after,” which is achieved through “matching the finishes of the existing home.” Within this attention to detail, Michael F. Simon Builders provides clients with a real vision of what homes can look like, using digital rendering and a keen sense of space. Simon says, “additions look and feel like they belong. We are a family-owned business that values honesty, integrity, hard work and most importantly, family. Homes are where wonderful memories take place and we utilize our values
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and experience to build custom homes that fit our client’s lifestyles – homes that are more durable, comfortable and healthier to live in.” The company is also dedicated to integrating sustainability into each build; succeeding in creating energy-efficient homes. “A well-built, draft-free home is an energy-efficient one,” says Simon. “We take extra measures to meet the highest energy standards and use materials that are healthier for homeowners and the environment. As president of Michael F. Simon Builders, I guarantee that your new construction or remodeling project will benefit from our experience and high standards, and you will share in the enthusiasm of past clients.” Michael F. Simon Builders’ guarantee is as tried as true as 120 years of experience and quality can bring. Couple that with a contemporary commitment to sustainability and one can see why the company has been successful for so long – adapting tradition to today’s needs.
M - F 9AM - 5PM | Sat. 1AM - 2PM Sun. By Appointment 5380 King James Way, Ste. A Madison, WI 53719 Ph. 608.278.8383 CaliforniaClosets.com
REGIONAL FOCUS Hamptons, NY
Featuring: STELLE ARCHITECTS MCLOUGHLIN CONSTRUCTION FOUNTAINHEAD CONSTRUCTION INC. MICHAEL HAVERLAND Architect BLAZE MAKOID architecture martin architects BERG DESIGN PAUL RUSSO ARCHITECT PERELLO BUILDING BARNES COY ARCHITECTS JD AUDIO AND VIDEO DESIGN JOHN DAVID ROSE architect
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ew York’s premier vacation spot--the Hamptons--has been revamped this season by a variety of architects, builders and designers. Located in the East Hampton and Southampton townships, the Hamptons is a lavish retreat that is regarded as one of the wealthiest areas in New York. It boasts some of the most expensive residences in the United States, and is known for its traditional shingle-style waterfront homes. Representing sophistication and relaxation, the term ‘Hamptons’ is not just a geographical location, but it also embodies a place where one can find all of the amenities of home while on vacation.
Contributing to the impressive real estate of this coastal resort are companies who have the ability to “loosen up” while remaining luxurious. Among these companies are Barnes Coy Architects, known for its harmonious mingling of clean and minimalist details and natural materials that reflect the Hamptons’ “beachy” landscape; Stelle Architects, an East Long Island company that focuses on creating simple, sustainable homes that connect to the surrounding landscape and design firm Blaze Makoid Architecture, who has found a home in New York--specializing in creating warm and inviting resort communities for the Hamptons. We invite you to kick off your shoes while perusing the featured Hamptons properties, all of which combine taste, elegance and fun with refined relaxation.
Bluff Point Residence BY BLAZE MAKOID ARCHITECTURE / p. 88 luxuryhomequarterly.com
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Peconic Bay Residence Completed: 2010 Location: Sag Harbor, NY
Stelle Architects
Ocean Guest House Completed: 2010 Location: Bridgehampton, NY
New York-based company takes a simplistic approach to home design: doing more by doing less
stelleco.com
by Jamie Farshchi Frederick Stelle, founding principal of Stelle Architects, has a simple question: How does one do more with less? “How does one communicate the beauty and simplicity of doing less?” he asks. “In past years it seems that too much was never enough in many cases. Perhaps because of the economic crisis we sense a new ethos where clients are happy building just what they need.” Stelle Architects has a vision of design that is noninvasive, sustainable and focuses on a place. The goal is not to simply enhance the natural landscape but to enhance the ability to experience it. It is an ethos that is very much at home in the Hamptons landscape. “We believe that the design and the siting of the structure should not come between the client and the experience of the location,” Stelle says. “So we try to do as little as possible.” Established in 1985 and located on East Long Island, Stelle Architects specializes in modern, sustainable, high-end residential architecture.
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The firm’s Ocean Guest House, located on an ocean front site in Bridgehampton, NY, consists of a two-story structure with shifted volumes and clad in fiber cement panels that shield the home from the street, maximizing privacy. The design is simplicity exemplified. “We tend to err on the side of simpler is better,” Stelle says. “Every project is unique and there is no formula other than a commitment to a process whereby we try to divine what the conditions warrant. Every project must be readable so we try to make the sequence of moving through the project seem inevitable, almost as if there is no alternative.” The firm’s Peconic Bay Residence is a singular expression of that inevitability. The two-story residence is arranged around an axial promenade; a
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01 The exterior of the Peconic Bay house showcases a serene landscape of plush greenery.
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02 The side of the home provides an entryway via a stone walkway. 03 The zen-like pool is surrounded by sleek wooden planks and stone. 04 The clean lines of the home's stairwell and open slats allows for unobstructed views throughout the home. 05 The modern living space boasts sliding glass doors providing access to the outdoor deck.
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“We believe that the design and the siting of the structure should not come between the client and the experience of the location.”
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long, narrow hallway extends from the interior to the outdoor entertaining area, offering a fluidity to the modern home. The design utilized glass, interstitial spaces to reduce the impact of the structure and features a geothermal heating and cooling system and energy efficient glazing. This commitment to reducing the impact of new builds on the environment is central to Stelle Architects’ vision. “I grew up with parents who were environmentalists and conservationists in the strictest sense.” Stelle says. “They were reducing, reusing and recycling before that phrase became a mantra of environmental awareness. So it is natural that our houses strive for low maintenance, durability and energy conservation without sacrificing the exciting qualities of modernism.”
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09 06 The Ocean Guest House is situated in solitude among expansive greenery. 07 Floor-to-ceiling windows open the home's living room to the outdoors. 08 Fiber cement panels keep the interior of the home private. 09 The Bridgehampton home is a two-story structure with shifted structures.
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True Custom Cabinetry
P.O. Box 268 - 860 Montauk Hwy Watermill, NY 11976 T: 631.726.1403 | F: 631.726.1478
www.LaGuardiaDesign.com
Design. Detail. Artistry. The heart and soul of fine woodworking. 121 Edwards Ave. Calverton, NY 11933 | Ph. 631.727.258 www.EastEndCountryKitchens.com
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Water Mill Residence Completed: 2009 Location: Bridgehampton, NY
McLoughlin Construction Corporation a collaborative approach to custom building in New York’s summer playground
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by Jamie Farshchi McLoughlin Construction has been building custom residential homes in the Hamptons for ten years. James McLoughlin, a second-generation builder, established his namesake company in Manhattan in 1998, but soon relocated to the seaside retreat after McLoughlin fell in love with the area. “I came out for the summer season and met my wife here,” he says. “I really felt a connection with the people, the geography, the architecture and the Hamptons offered a unique and exciting market to what was then a young company.” It is a market that still drives McLoughlin’s passion for building. “We’re working on the most exciting projects with the best architects and the best designers,” he says. “We’re working with new materials, evolving building technology; we get to see and experience more out here.” The company’s recently completed Water Mill Residence was designed and built to maximize views of Bridgehampton’s stunning Mecox Bay. Almost every room of the traditional Hamptons shingle-style residence features expansive windows; taking full advantage of the enviable waterfront location.
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photos: John Musnicki Graphic Image Group
The residence design takes subtle cues from its surroundings. Two white towers, reminiscent of lighthouses, flank the cedar shingled residence, offering a whimsical nod to the home’s location. The towers also feature rooftop decking from which to view the gorgeous Mecox Bay sunset. The nautical theme continues throughout the interior of the home. An open floor plan, whitelatticed cabinets through the living area and a home office built in mahogany and designed to resemble a ship’s quarters, offer an elegant take on a traditional beach house. The residence seamlessly blends the traditional and contemporary,
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01 The home's structure has elements of its surrounding landscape, complete with two towers that replicate lighthouses. 02 The panoramic design of the living room brings the breathtaking views of the outdoors in. 03 The bookshelf blends with the variations of white decor of the home's interior. 04 Custom cabinetry line the walls of the well appointed kitchen. 05 The cozy enclosed patio reflects the colors of the sand and water surrounding the home.
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featuring a steam room and sauna, first floor media room and a game and billiard room complete with a zinc top bar. It is the collaborative effort that McLoughlin says makes their builds so successful. “Building a home is such a collective effort, we really value the relationships we build with the architects and clients we work with.”
A message from East End Country Kitchens
Those relationships play an integral role in McLoughlin’s vision for the company. “I’m in this for the long haul,” McLoughlin says. “I want to be building out here for 30 years and the only way that’s going to happen is to do right by each project. It’s a rewarding process, building a home, we want to make sure we do it right.”
of service, it is easy to see why this
Since 1976 homeowners, architects, builders and designers have put their trust in East End Country Kitchens. With their stunning designs, expert craftsmanship, ardent attention to detail and superior level company is the most successful in the area! Their belief is that truly great custom cabinetry is born of passion, knowledge and experience and they approach every project with these time honored values.
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Wickapogue Road Residence Completed: 2010 Location: Bridgehampton, NY fhcinc.com
Fountainhead Construction Inc. Hamptons homes built around lifestyle and location by Amy Howell Hirt
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In small communities, everything feels connected, in one way or another. Bridgehampton Village is no different. For builder Gary Seff--who has lived in the area since 1983--new projects almost always come from past clients. Homeowners are looking to connect to the calm of the surf and sand, and Seff – who has worked with others in the high-end custom home market – is looking to create something that celebrates each client’s unique sense of place. “It is a collaboration of a team – homeowner, architect, builder and interior designer – that always achieves the best outcome,” says Seff, the owner of Fountainhead Construction Inc., based in Bridgehampton. “If you’re going to be in construction, this is the best place to be, because you’re able to build structures that just do not exist most anywhere else.” Many clients are drawn toward traditional or modern styles, but they each bring their own slightly different interpretation. In a seasonal residence for a young family, Seff worked with architect Timothy Haynes and designer Kevin Roberts to use traditional forms and materials to achieve “contemporary results.” “The interest is in the volume of space, within a traditional exterior,” Seff says. Like other homes that boast a stunning setting, simplicity became the primary architectural element. The oversized windows are picture frames for a brilliant blue sky, the crisp plastered walls are a canvas for shadows and the soaring ceilings and sunwashed shades are a reflection of the outdoors. Natural materials like imported antique limestone and quarter-sawn, wide-plank Ceruse White Oak flooring have a grounding effect that connects the home to its environment and unites
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01 Hues, which capture the waves of ocean, decorate the bedroom.
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02 The WR Residence was created for a family who desired a seasonal Hamptons getaway. 03 Floor-to-ceiling windows open up the home's living room. 04 A large kitchen and dining area is divided by a long, white island.
photos: Kerry Sharkey Miller
the traditional elements to modern-day requirements of beachside living. The architectural firm used varying degrees of whites – including sandblasted Carrara marble walls, marmorino plaster treatments and St. Charles kitchen cabinetry - to give the space a clean, modern feel. Considering the preferences and lifestyle of a young family, they also included sleek yet plentiful seating and metallic mid-century-inspired lighting - such as futuristic silver orbs that hang in the entry to the master bedroom - that provide unexpected energy.
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This playful, elegant simplicity is summed up in a dining room mural from artist Lawrence Weiner, which reads, “Placed on the tip of a wave.” “The art connects the house to the environment; an environment of family, house and sea,” Seff says.
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Waterfront House Completed: 2008 Location: East Hampton, NY michaelhaverland.com
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Michael Haverland Architect New York company harnesses innovation and collaboration to create timeless art by Amy Howell Hirt Architect Michael Haverland could be called a master of design paradoxes. Haverland, who has offices in East Hampton and New York City, excels at weaving seemingly irreconcilable influences into functional works of art. “Every design is individually crafted to be original and unique,” Haverland says. “Unlike some other modern work, I want it to be really timeless and feel connected to history.” A waterfront home in East Hampton is a prime example of the collaborative approach that Haverland, who started his firm 13 years ago, and his team use to capitalize on contrasts and produce one-of-a-kind creations.
Informed by his commercial experience, Haverland’s designs come standard with these multipurpose features that balance economy, beauty and sustainability. But like his designs for Tod’s retail stores or office space for eyewear designer
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Robert Marc, Haverland is careful to balance cool and modern with warm and comfortable in his homes. In the Waterfront home, the extensive windows and travertine floors that flow throughout the space are warmed by stretches of mahogany wood and an eclectic mix of furnishings collected by the well-traveled homeowners, complemented by items from R.E. Steele Antiques and 1stdibs. “It was important for us to have the stone floor continue to the outside. That’s a very modern principle,” Haverland says. “But we wanted it to still feel warm and comfortable.”
Haverland’s ability to bring a timeless, organic feel to modern designs often attracts well-known clients who appreciate design that contrasts their public persona, such as Calvin Klein, who tapped Haverland for the design of his Southampton home. Collaborating with the client allows Haverland to create a cohesive and personalized space for every project. Haverland also believes collaboration between the client, architect, builder and contractors is the unsung hero in any feat of celebrated architecture, and credits builder Ben Krupinski for making this waterfront home a reality. “Not only is he one of the best contractors out there, but I really believe a project like this couldn’t have happened without his expertise,” he says.
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PHOTOS: Laurie Lambrecht
While the home’s waterfront side boasts walls of custom floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, the team developed attention-grabbing, threedimensional cement panels that provide privacy on the facade. The rounded surface and composition of the 20 x 20 inch panels–made from sand excavated from the site–is reminiscent of an ancient, wind-worn structure, but the panels also have an institutional feel, inspired by Haverland’s own background and the Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned Hollyhock House in Los Angeles, which the homeowners visited. Technology, along with Haverland’s stint as a professor at Yale University, also played a role. The intricate “plaid” pattern was hand-cast from computer-generated foam molds, researched by one of Haverland’s students, who became project manager for the home. The panels, which clip to traditional masonry walls, also serve as a functional rain screen.
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“Every design is individually crafted to be original and unique. Unlike some other modern work, I want it to be really timeless and feel connected to history.� Michael Haverland, owner 03
01 Seamless transitions from the bedroom to the bathroom mimic the movement from interior to exterior. 02 The stucco colonnade protects the delicate steel and glass doors behind from waterfront winds and storms. The stucco cladding is made from sand on the property and simple planes capture light and shadow.
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03 The opacity of the two volumes clad in cast concrete block provide privacy and gradual discovery of the open steel and glass beyond. 04 Living room with 14-foot doors and windows and sunshade colonnade beyond. The rigorous pattern of custom steel windows creates a changing play of light and shadow throughout the day.
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Bluff Point Residence Completed: 2008 Location: Sag Harbor, NY blazemakoid-architecture.com
Blaze Makoid Architecture Veteran architect masters luxury vacation getaways by Isabel Eva Bohrer 01
A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Blaze Makoid has been in the architecture industry since 1985. After working for internationally renowned design firms such as Kallmann McKinnell & Wood Architects and the Hillier Group, he founded his own firm, Blaze Makoid Architecture. Based in New York, the firm specializes in high-end single-family homes–often second homes–in luxury resort communities that include the Hamptons and Lake Tahoe. “We focus on modern, luxury residences with a particular interest in instilling a level of comfort and warmth tailored for the individual client,” Makoid says. As to what makes his company unique, Makoid says, “we could not do what we do with anything less than a great staff that is made up of very talented individuals that are required to wear multiple hats on every project.” He underlines that there is no specific ‘design’ or ‘technical’ team. “If you work here, you have to excel in both,” he says.
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Makoid himself is deeply involved in every one of the projects. “Many years ago I was a Design Director for a large office and responsible for the output of anywhere from 50-100 individuals,” he says. “I found that I just wasn’t doing architecture anymore. I left this to open my own practice and don’t ever want to make that mistake again.” The fact that Makoid likes being an architect shows in every one of his projects, including his own home, the Bluff Point Residence on Sag Harbor Cove. “From a problem solving point of view, we were particularly interested in creating a dramatic, yet functional space, within a very restrictive buildable envelope,” Makoid says. He is particularly proud of the exterior of the two wings of the house that face the water, “organized by large, light stained cedar ‘timber’ frames,” he says. “These frames create an order in the elevation that allows for multiple window compositions to function specifically to the needs of the interior spaces,
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Entry Living Dining Kitchen Bedroom Bathroom Office Deck Patio Pool Garage
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01 The Bluff Point Residence is comprised of stained cedar timber frames and windows that meet the needs of the various rooms they are situated in. 02 A view of the surrounding ocean provides a relaxing backdrop to the home's living and dining room, which feature plentiful seating and a cozy fireplace.
photos: Marc Bryan Brown
03 Nestled amongst the trees, the home has a private, yet open atmosphere, with expansive windows on each floor. 04 The outdoor deck has an intimate, fenced-in pool and ample seating.
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photos: Marc Bryan Brown
05 Contemporary accent pieces such as an avant-garde chandelier are found throughout the home. 06 The bathroom boasts impressive views of the exterior.
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Condon Engineering, P.C. New York State Licensed Professional Engineers
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1755 Sigsbee Road Mattituck, NY 11952 Phone: (631) 298-1986 Fax: (631) 298-2651 Website: www.condonengineering.com E-mail: condoneng@optonline.net
“From a problem solving point of view, we were particularly interested in creating a dramatic, yet functional space, within a very restrictive buildable envelope.” Blaze Makoid, principal
without appearing chaotic from the exterior,” Makoid says. Further favorites include the glass master shower, and the custom living room window seat. Blaze Makoid Architecture designed the living room coffee table, while the chaise is from RE Steele Antiques in East Hampton. The area rugs, in turn, are by Carpetman, and the bath fixtures by Blackman Plumbing Supply, both based in Southampton. The home’s interior lighting is by Suffolk Designer Lighting, while Phantom automated, roll down screens protect the home from insects.
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It is here that Makoid finds a perfectly tranquil refuge from the intensity of the ‘Hamptons Summer’ – while working on future projects, of course. Specifically, he is working on several waterfront homes, including, he says, a “family compound featuring a pair of art galleries (one in each house) that are situated across the property, but facing each other.” He is also excited about a new project in Martis Camp, Lake Tahoe. “It’s our first project on the West coast as well as a ski house instead of a beach house, he says. This is also a very high end spec undertaking where we have an equity stake. In fact, we have already begun discussing the next project.”
Condon Engineering, P.C. has been teaming with Blaze Makoid Architecture to provide structural and mechanical engineering on a variety of residential projects over the course of approximately six years. Blaze’s projects offer a wide range of unique challenges and opportunities. It is always a pleasure to work with him. Condon Engineering, P.C. is a family owned and operated business whose principals have over 35 years of professional experience. Condon Engineering, P.C. offers a wide range of engineering services including: • Structural Engineering Design Services • Electrical Engineering Design Services • HVAC Engineering Design Services • Plumbing Engineering Design Services • Civil-Site Engineering Design Services • Energy Star Home Rating Services • Building Problem/Defect Investigation and Resolution • Pre Purchase Building Inspections Residential and Commercial With our experience offering multiple disciplines of engineering services, this eliminates the need for additional engineering consultants and associated coordination.
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Sagaponack Residence Completed: 2011 Location: Sagaponack, NY
Martin Architects PC AIA
martinarchitects.com
New York-based architecture firm finds its niche blending modern and rustic by Amy Howell Hirt Architect Nick Martin AIA is used to filling multiple roles for high-end residential architecture construction and renovation. His Sagaponack-based firm, Martin Architects PC AIA, provides architecture and engineering services, in addition to interior design and furniture and landscape design. The associated building company 4MA Builders manages a portion of the construction for the firm. As a prerequisite all of the architects have construction experience, a real estate license for master planning, and when clients need help finding just the right property.
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But this comprehensive approach came full circle when Martin served as the client for the complete renovation of a 1776 home in Sagaponack. With three failing foundations, crumbling chimneys and poorly joined additions, the project challenged all of the firm’s disciplines and demonstrates the “timeless sensibility” that has been Martin’s “North Star” for more than 14 years. The home, which was vacant for 10 years, began as an engineering challenge. To aesthetically blend the sections, the team incorporated architectural elements on the exterior and laminated lumber and steel beams to achieve open spaces in the interior. The residence showcases the tried-and-true aspects of “green” construction that the firm focuses on, such as passive solar techniques and recycled or repurposed materials. “The concept of our firm is to be as sustainable as possible, using the oldest practices of green design,” Martin says.
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The stainless steel roof is made from partially-recycled materials and the interior walls are partially finished with clear cedar siding and hard pine floorboards salvaged from the original structure, along with beams and joists now used as structural and decorative elements. The home also incorporates newer materials that help harness natural energy, such as solar eaves and shades and high R-value windows from Loewen. Martin and his team always consider the site as part of a home’s design. With adjoining farmland, nearby wetlands and a lot spacious enough to keep chickens, this property called for a “barn-like, industrial-farm” feel. To merge the style with the family’s collection of Eames furniture and artwork from well-known
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01 The Sagaponack Residence was renovated from a late 18th-century home, and boasts the firm's affinity for "green" construction. 02 The home features a stainless steel roof, which was made from recycled materials, and the interior walls were made from wood that was salvaged from the original 1776 structure.
04 An impressive backyard features a pool and deck area, as well as ample room for outdoor recreation.
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05 Mimicking the openness of the home's first floor, the bedroom leads seamlessly into an adjoining bathroom.
03 The structure of the home is open to provide views into each room. The dining room is surrounded by the kitchen and living room, as well as stairs to the upper floor.
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painters, Martin took the matter into his own hands and built many of the modern, organic furnishings. A sleek bathroom vanity, for example, incorporates reclaimed beams, and the dining room table balances slabs of a sustainable Costa Rican hardwood over steel legs. “Our goal is to use very skilled craftsmen, architects and designers to efficiently create an artistic ‘green’ project that is as unique as the client,” Martin says.
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Berg Design Architecture Modern design solutions inspired by nature
East End Beach House Completed: 2010 Location: East Hampton, NY bergdesignarchitects.com
by Isabel Eva Bohrer Since 2001, Berg Design Architecture has been committed to filling a specific niche: to create “modern design solutions with a bend towards nature as a source of inspiration,” in the words of principal John Berg. As a boutique design firm, his company specializes in residential and commercial work in New York City and the Eastern end of Long Island, working on a limited number of projects at one time. “We are therefore able to be extremely responsive to our clients,” Berg says, adding that he and his team moreover, “strive to make our work as sustainable as our clients and budget will allow.” In fact, joining forces with their clients is a key part of the Berg Design work ethic. “Our approach to projects is driven by a direct collaboration with the client and our own ‘modern/ organic’ sensibilities,” Berg says. Clients are involved to varying degrees in all phases of the
design process, and during construction, the firm endeavors to work as a team with contractors and trades people. At the East End Beach House, for example, “the client wanted the interior to employ ‘beachy,’ rustic finishes with a modern sensibility,” Berg says. Berg himself is particularly proud of the kitchen island and surrounding millwork, which he says was, “extremely successful. The book matched walnut cabinetry was built like fine furniture and looks great with the bleached floor finish and blue glass tile back splash.” In addition, he says the new staircase is “an exciting element to see realized.” According to Berg, “the crisp, nautical, stainless steel railing and somewhat rustic reclaimed oak treads and risers create good visual tension in the context of a modern stair design.”
01 The foyer was designed as a transparent bridge between both the front and back ends of the house, as well providing access to the kitchen, family and living room. 02 The rear of the house is equipped with a wooden deck that leads to the surrounding lush greenery. 03 The kitchen's natural stone countertops and glass tile add to the starkness of the room's white aesthetic. 04 The interior of the beach house provides a sense of openness, with reclaimed oak floors leading to the home's second floor.
PHOTOS: Berg Design Architecture
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“Our approach to projects is driven by a direct collaboration with the client and our own ‘modern/organic’ sensibilities.” John Berg, principal
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The bleached oak and glass topped coffee table was designed by Berg Design specifically for the project. Most of the remaining furniture, in turn, was sourced by William Gregory Interior Design, whom Berg respects as “a very talented designer.” The antler chandelier over the dining table came from Roll and Hill Lamps while general lighting was provided by Edison Price Lighting. For all the stone and glass tiles, Berg called on Stone Source. Overall, the East End Beach House exemplifies once again how the boutique design firm successfully collaborated with its clients. As for future projects, that is also the goal. “For desired future projects, rather than specify a project type we are interested in working with clients who are committed to the process of creating meaningful spaces,” Berg says. In the process, he will continue looking to “evolving building technology and nature” for inspiration.
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01 Southampton Residence 1 Completed: 2010 Location: Southampton, NY russoarchitect.com
Paul Russo Architect New York-based company’s designs are the meeting place of form and function by Jamie Farshchi
“We try and utilize the site as effectively as we can,” Russo says. “Of course no one wants a pool in the shade and everyone wants their space maximized.” It is this balance between the poetic and the practical, the form and the function of design that Russo’s namesake firm, Paul Russo Architect, prides itself on. Located in Locust Valley, NY, Paul Russo Architect was established in 2001 after Russo spent five years as a project architect in Manhattan. The full-service firm designs custom residential, commercial and retail design and works across New York and New Jersey. Russo says designing in the Hamptons is unlike designing anywhere else in the United States. “The Hamptons is really quite special,” he says. “We work with a secluded and influential client base and every amenity has to be considered. There is a real attention to detail on the homes out here.” While client expectations in the Hamptons might be high, environmental considerations also play a pivotal role in the firm’s designs, as sites often have challenges such as sand dunes obscuring
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waterfront views along with flooding and hurricane zone regulations. One of the firm’s recent Hamptons residences, the Southampton Private Residence #1 was designed as an ‘upside down house;’ the residence elevates all of the living and entertaining areas to the second level (including the decking and pool areas) to address flooding regulations and to maximize views of the Atlantic Ocean. The traditional cedar shingle style home was designed as a getaway for a family local to the area and incorporates floor-to-ceiling French doors to bridge the divide between indoor and outdoor entertaining. The residence also features a boardwalk extending from the second floor deck across the dunes to the beach, giving a sense of connectedness with the ocean beyond. There is something romantic and highly functional about the home’s design. It is at once practical and idyllic, a design sensibility that Russo says, is at the very foundation of his love for architecture. “Architecture is a combination of science and art,” Russo says. “I love what I do and my clients love that I love it. It’s a great feeling to be working on something we’re both really invested in.”
01 The three-story entry foyer provides a spectacular feeling upon entering the home. Wide panel wood flooring and nautical colored detailing provide a luxurious ambiance. 02 This shingle-style dwelling main facade faces north looking over Mecox Bay. From the road the home is guarded by vegetation for a private feeling. 03 The dining room and great room is complete with a center fireplace and elegantly-sloped ceilings. The large windows and doors allow plenty of natural light. 04 A pristine white kitchen allows for plenty of room for cooking and conversation with a beautiful marble counter top island and an abundance of storage in custom built cabinetry.
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PHOTOS: Ron Papageorge Architectural Photography
Paul Russo always takes his first meeting on the site of his client’s future home. They will stand on the lot and imagine the design together; the client sharing their vision, Russo drawing attention to the peaks and troughs of the landscape, the movement of the sun and the direction of prevailing winds.
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Fingerlake Contracting, Inc. Interior Painting & Finishes
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120 Halsey Manor Road Manorville, NY 11949-1604 Phone: (516) 639-0878 luxuryhomequarterly.com
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20 Devonshire (below) Completed: 2011 Location: Amagansett, NY
Perello Building Long Island company specializes in resort-style refinement
1095 Head of Pond (right) Completed: 2008 Location: Water Mill, NY perellobuilding.com
by Jamie Farshchi Richard Perello was a high school biology teacher when he got the itch to open his own construction business. While the transition might sound a little irregular, Perello spent his summers renovating his own home and says it was a more natural fit than teaching. “I loved renovating my own home,” he says. “It was a one-man show and I gained a lot of experience.” In 2002 Perello established Perello Building, a full-service construction company on the east end of Long Island. The firm offers design and maintenance services and specializes in custom and speculative projects. Most of Perello’s projects are located in the Hamptons, and it is the uniqueness of the location that, Perello says, drives his passion for building. “Expectations are high,” he says. “Eighty to 90% of our clients live in Manhattan. But there are
opportunities that come with that. The last spec home we built had a full home automation system; that’s something that’s become standard in the Hamptons.” Home automation is also a part of the company’s commitment to green building. The firm uses Marvin windows and spray foam insulation on the exterior walls to achieve zero air infiltration and all appliances are energy rated. One of Perello’s recent speculative homes, 20 Devonshire, utilizes a home automation system. Programmable to do virtually anything, the system allows the owner to adjust the thermostat, open the garage and turn the lights off all from a remote location. The 5,500-square-foot Tuscan-style residence, located in Amagansett, features a 28-foot cathedral ceiling with custom glass skylight, and an outdoor entertaining area complete with mahogany deck-
01 20 Devonshire was inspired by Tuscan elements. A mahogany deck, surrounds the home's pool. 02 1095 Head of Pond features a stone and brick shower with wooden bench providing a spalike atmosphere. 03 Viking appliances and a farm house sink from Franke create a modern yet traditional space. 04 An infinity swimming pool and an expansive outdoor area complete the home's exterior. 05 The outdoor is brought in through the living room's massive windows.
PHOTOS: Gonzo Photo Studio
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ing, gunite pool and spa with spill-over edges, contributing to the elegant resort feel of the residence. Like 20 Devonshire, another of the firm’s recent projects, 1095 Head of Pond, is reminiscent of an elegant Tuscan vineyard. The interior, open and bright, is part beach side cottage, part contemporary polished home. The 7,650-square-foot-home, set on a two-acre flag lot features a spectacular outdoor living space, complete with infinity edge swimming pool. Perello says the details of the outdoor living area, the view and the landscaping, are integral to a cohesive build. “You might be in the pool,” he says. “Looking back at the house or at the magnificent view, you can hear water spilling into the trough and it really creates a moment–that’s what we’re trying to do.”
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Barnes Coy Architects
The Quogue Residence Completed: 2010 Location: Quogue, NY barnescoy.com
A small firm that emphasizes each client's unique needs by Isabel Eva Bohrer In business for over twenty years, Barnes Coy Architects has completed more than 250 projects throughout the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean. The firm specializes in both highend residential and commercial buildings, and its staff of 15 people is divided between three offices: one in Bridgehampton, NY, one in Vail, CO and one in New York City. Given the firm's small size, principals Robert Barnes and Christopher Coy remain closely involved in every aspect of the design work. All three of their offices are unified by the firm's design style and philosophy. "Our style is minimalist and clean but warmed by the use of natural materials," says Barnes. "Our philosophy is that forms are generated by the interaction of the site context and the requirements of the client. This always produces unique projects, which are specific to each client.”
Having started with the specific programmatic requirements from the client and taking into account the site conditions, "we provide sketches and 3D model images for the clients to make sure they understand the design decisions we are making," Barnes says. Most recently, this philosophy was put into action at the Quogue Residence. A long and narrow site, the residence's southern boundary is the Atlantic Ocean, while the northern edge is marked by Shinnecock Bay. "The primary design objective of the project was to bring both of these spectacular views together, using the house itself as a double-ended viewing platform," Coy says. "Conversely, the neighboring houses on the east and west sides suggest that the house on those sides should be mostly opaque."
01 A stunning backyard of the Quogue Residence looks out onto the ocean. 02 A side exterior view shows the home’s pool area, which is surrounded by a beachy landscape, and a wooden deck that leads to an outdoor stairwell. 03 The materials used to create the home’s exterior satisfied the need for a durable structure that could handle myriad weather conditions.
PHOTOS: Edge Media Productions
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Robert Kessler Inc.
Stone Masons | Since 1970 PO Box 584 Yaphank NY Ph. 631.924.2241, 516.446.4668 kesslerstone@optonline.net luxuryhomequarterly.com
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04 A skylight filters natural light into the home, which corresponds to the natural elements of the stairwell’s wooden slats. The minimalist decor surrounding the stairwell provides a sense of openness to the room.
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05 Light pours into the home's living room, which has an ample seating area and fireplace.
“Our philosophy is that forms are generated by the interaction of the site context and the requirements of the client.” Robert Barnes, principal
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PHOTOS: EdgeMediaProd.com
A plan and section was derived using the concept of a telescope. "The rectangular tube opens to the view at both ends, and appears to be slung in a frame that supports an extreme cantilever of the upper level towards the ocean," Coy says. Throughout the design process, "the selection of materials was guided by the need for durability, weathering characteristics and very low maintenance," Coy says. "Cladding is western red cedar, as shingles and horizontal center-matched planks, which stands up well to the harsh conditions encountered on the ocean." Custom designs were called on for the curtain-wall system, which is engineered to withstand lateral wind loads of 125 miles per hour as well as impacts from wind-borne debris, while presenting minimal sight-lines. Throughout the residence is an extensive use of structural steel, some of it exposed, enabling long spans and the extreme cantilever of the living room above the terrace at the pool level. "This project clearly illustrates this firm’s approach to design, which is to allow major site elements and conditions to inspire the parti," Coy says.
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BARNES COY
ARCHITECTS BRIDGEHAMPTON | NYC
631.537.3555 | BARNESCOY.COM
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The Rieder Residence Completed: 2009 Location: Short Hill, NJ jdav.com
JD Audio & Video Design, Inc. A family-grown business with a service-orientated staff by Isabel Eva Bohrer “Honestly, I wouldn’t be where I am today without family,” says Gabriel Karlis, the principal behind JD Audio & Video Design, Inc. “My business was started by my father and someday I want my children to run it. My-brother-in-law is my right hand man, and my beautiful wife has been by my side every step of the way.”
As for the company’s work ethic, Karlis mentions that “we like to set up an initial meeting with the client in our showroom, to show them what we do and how we can help them with their A/V needs.” He himself likes to do a walk through with the clients before the pre-wire starts to verify that they “are all on the same page.”
New Jersey-based company JDAV has been serving the tri-state area for over 40 years. “We have a service-oriented staff with a deep understanding of high-end clientele we are always growing, but we never forget our family ties,” Karlis says. The firm usually works on high-end residential automation and audio/video projects, mixed with boutique commercial projects. What characterizes the company is “our ability to finesse the balance of high end automation audio/video technology and high end design,” says Karlis.
The Rieder Residence is a perfect example of the firm meeting the clients’ needs. Here, “our goal was to create a space for the whole family to have fun and relax,” Karlis says. “They wanted a place to showcase their children’s talents, so we built a stage at the front of the room for them to put on shows. For quieter nights, a movie screen retracts from the ceiling for everyone to sit back and enjoy the latest feature.” Karlis says he is particularly proud of this project “because of the challenge of maintaining a traditional feel, which mirrored the rest of the home, with a touch of art deco.”
As experts in the audio and video world, Karlis’ firm has had the privilege of being asked to participate in two episodes of “The Extreme Home Makeover,” where it used its automation and A/V technology to create an environment for a hearing-impaired family and a family with a vision impaired child. “It doesn’t get more rewarding then knowing that everyday their lives will be a little easier because of us,” says Karlis.
Because the client asked for an art deco feel, “we had fun with this project by adding a candy case, classic movie posters and a popcorn machine,” Karlis says. Specifically, he mentions his friends at Crestron and Fortress Seating for making this possible. In the end, “the client was extremely satisfied with the transitional design that we came up with that captured both elements,” Karlis says.
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01 A candy case, classic movie posters and popcorn machine complete the timeless feel of the Art Deco theater. 02 The theater features a stage for the home owner's children to perform shows.
A message from Elite Home Theater Seating Elite Home Theater Seating is a Canadian manufacturer of custom, home cinema recliners. With each recliner weighing over 150lbs, they are built to last and come with a 10 Year Warranty.
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Shelter Island Residence Completed: 2010 Location: Long Island, NY johndavidrosearchitect.com
John David Rose Architect Long Island native builds upon local heritage
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by Amy Howell Hirt The saying “You can never go home again” doesn’t particularly apply to architect John David Rose. Born and raised on the eastern end of Long Island, he now works where others go to vacation. “One of the great things about working here is it’s just a wonderful place to be,” Rose says. “The climate, the water, the open space – there is a lot of local flavor.” For Rose, the Hamptons are as much a part of his DNA as his career in architecture; his father, grandfather, great-grandfather and even greatgreat-grandfather were all builders. But rather than join a family business, Rose opened his own company and has created his own legacy; becoming one of the larger architecture firms on eastern Long Island and one of the oldest in Southampton Village. “We develop long-term relationships with our clients,” Rose says. “I have been very lucky to have clients who are very intelligent, fun and caring, and open to new design ideas. They have a great sense of humor, and many times we start as strangers and end up as very good friends.”
In some cases, Rose’s mission is to restore history. When a family purchased a historic home on Shelter Island, the firm removed the additions made to the historic structure, then worked with builder Ironwood Construction and Davis Building Movers to relocate it to a new foundation on the property, where it was joined by a boat house designed from old photos. “We brought it back to the way it was, right where it was,” Rose says.
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The home retained the durable, shingle-style architecture that has become a trademark of the area, combined with cedar shingles on the main roof. On the less-pitched dormers and wraparound porch, long-lasting copper will quickly develop a gorgeous patina thanks to the salty breezes. Over the years, Rose has noticed homeowners spending more time here, which has brought a new dimension to the relationship his team forms with their clients.
01 The Shelter Island Residence has cedar shingles that are indicative of the locale. 02 A wrap-around Mahogany deck adds charm to the home's exterior. 03 A quaint boat house was inspired by old photographs taken of the historic property.
“At one point, most of our projects were second homes. But after 9/11, more people began giving
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photos: Brittany Imperiale
Familiarity is priceless here, where about half of the company’s projects involve renovating 100-plus-year-old homes in historic districts, where there are regulations and architecture review boards to consider alongside the needs of the homeowner.
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“One of the great things about working here is it’s just a wonderful place to be. The climate, the water, the open space – there is a lot of local flavor.” John David Rose, owner
up their offices in Manhattan, living here full-time and working from satellite locations,” Rose says. Although Rose chose to “strike out on his own,” John David Rose Architect may become a family business after all, Rose says. His oldest son, Scott, works as an intern at the firm during the summer and will join his father’s team after graduating with his architecture degree.
A message from Richard Raffel CKD At E.T. Raffel Cabinets, we believe that heaven is in the details. With an unrivaled attention to detail, we work together with our clients to produce a shared vision. We have been designing, handcrafting, and installing fine custom cabinetry for discriminating homeowners throughout “The Hamptons” for over 50 years.
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Home Theater Design & Automation Residential Audio Video Integration Lighting Control Systems WiFi Networks & Telephone Systems
247 W. 37th St. | Ste. 704 New York, NY 10018 Ph. 212.997.1110 | F. 212.997.0474 info@eeny.net
Designers Creative and enthusiastic minds with a flair for enhancing spaces that reflect a mix of their imagination alongside a client’s personality, needs and desires.
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01 01 The master bathroom features a lavish shower clad in marble and tile. 02 The hallway leading to the family room features a Galaxy blue glass wall and a Bright Group bench. 03 The family room is decorated in autumnal hues and showcases an Old World Weaver sectional, Trocan coffee table and Ward Bennett desk chair. 04 The living room, which is adjacent to the dining area, is furnished with a large coffee table and plush seating. 05 A Fort Street runner and Pucci sconces decorate the hallway that leads to the master bedroom.
of collaboration, not only between the owner and their wishes and designers, but also with the craftsman and other design professionals.”
Celebrated architectural and interior design firm sustains success through creativity and exceptional detailing by Elisa Revello From the lush islands of Hawaii to the pristine coast of Martha’s Vineyard, the architecture and interior design firm Ike Kligerman Barkley (IKBA) has been creating bespoke, high-end residences that have cemented the company among the AD100 Designers and Architects since the early nineties.
have been racking up publicity for their work, which has been featured repeatedly in industry magazines. The IKBA team now consists of 25 people, who work collaboratively with subcontractors, fellow craftsman and artisans, ultimately creating an authentic design scheme that reflects the locale of the given home.
Tom Kligerman and John Ike joined forces 20 years ago combining a range of experience in residential, institutional and commercial markets, capitalizing on the then thriving residential market. Since the outset, they have earned numerous awards including the New York Chapter AIA Honor Award and
“Philosophically, we pay attention to the area of the country, where we are working, and take into account the local architecture, convention and history. We are always responding to that in some way,” says principal architect and co-founder, John Ike. “The other defining nature of our work is a strong sense
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IKBA often works with divergent themes. For a regular client’s main home, the firm created an eclectic 1970’s California beach house with vertical wood siding, placing large glass windows on top of the ocean to maximize views. In another project focusing on the client’s condominium in Trump Tower, the firm approached the design differently, mirroring the luxurious, ostentatious style of the building yet framing it in an understated, urbane way. Ike explains that the main room of the apartment is treated as a library with deep red lacquer walls and polished brass trim for the molding and panels, keeping the Trump aesthetic but giving the space a 19th-century French feel. The floors are done with an off-white leather and decorated with 1940’s French furniture--by André Arbus--and other period French furnishings. “What really is our hallmark is the individual, contextual approach to each project,” Ike says. “The consistent theme is a focus on quality and exceptional detailing.”
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Ike Kligerman Barkley
The firm’s portfolio is broad in budget and in scope including free standing houses, both new and renovations, as well as apartments and condominiums. Ike further explains that the team thrives on the variety of projects, which keeps the work continuously stimulating. Each project is treated individually and though there may be a similar program, each story unfolds uniquely.
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Levy Residence Completed: 2007 Location: Miami, FL ikba.com
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Levy Residence Situated among an elite community in Miami, the condominium provides modern amenities with a comfortable, luxurious atmosphere. IKBA integrated the interior and floor, wall and ceiling material, a practical construction in a tropical climate like Florida. The firm separated the indoor and outdoors to subtly divide outdoor living and entertainment from the quiet of the inside space, but employed an open and flowing modern floor plan where the entry opened to the dining room and then to the kitchen––– ultimately to the ocean scenery. “We opened it in such a way so that these wonderful views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean were maximized,” Ike says. Coastal Construction was the general contractor and Ike says they have phenomenal subcontractors, woodworkers and craftsman. “We love the interaction,” Ike says. Italian Cippolino marble and an off-white marble border run through the terrace to seamlessly connect the inside and outside. The team wielded simple wall surfaces complemented by a ceiling with revealed texture and décor using texture and material to give a sense of lavishness and serenity. Accents include a curved glass entry door and a vestibule of mosaic.
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“What really is our hallmark is the individual, contextual approach to each project. The consistent theme is a focus on quality and exceptional detailing.” John Ike, Principal
For the latest residence for the Levy family, IKBA designed a condominium in downtown Miami. The firm chose to open the indoor space to the outdoor space opening up to the vista of the proximal Atlantic Ocean. In this space, Ike says the firm strove for a blend of formality and comfort using texture and material to give the space a more opulent feel. photos: Durston Saylor
The formula for design works as IKBA serves several repeat clients and remains occupied and intrigued by the multifariousness of its projects. IKBA’s growth is largely based on word of mouth and the company will often find clients through recognition. “Our ideal client is someone who is all in terms of enthusiasm and interest in doing something as
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engaging as possible,” Ike says. “In terms of style, we welcome the variety we seem to get. It makes the whole process continually fascinating, collaborating with the client and creating a vocabulary.”
photos: Durston Saylor
Sustainability is increasingly coming to the forefront of the client’s minds as children are having more input in the overall process. Ike says that this movement is apparent though not as formalized in the residential as it is in the institutional market. “There is a more subtle kind of understanding to source local materials and remain conscious of energy conservation in terms of specifications,” Ike says. “Of course we try to maximize sustainable practices and incorporate them wherever possible.”
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06 Views from the bedroom showcase downtown Miami. 07 Technological luxuries, such as a television in the kitchen, can be found at the Levy Residence. 08 A round foyer with a faux-sun light fixture opens to the rest of the condominium.
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Alene Workman Interior Design Design firm uses expertise in fine art toward creating unique, functional spaces by David Hudnall AleneWorkman has two degrees: one in art, and one in interior design. “Once I realized I wasn’t an artist, I went back and got my interior design degree,” she says. At Alene Workman Interior Design, the full-service firm she helms in Hollywood, FL, she aims to bridge the gap between those two passions. “I try to combine a classical, fine-art background with more formal structural training, and create a blend of form and style and vision,” Workman says. The firm -- which works primarily in Florida, but has traveled to Michigan, Ohio, Nevada and South Carolina for various projects over the years -- spe-
cializes in luxury residential work on new construction projects and large-scale renovations. Workman founded it 25 years ago, after a stint with a hospitality design firm that focused on hotels and high-end residential work. “I got my feet wet with a good firm that took on an array of different kinds of projects,” she says. “It helped me learn the business.” Workman’s extensive knowledge of the industry can be witnessed in a project she designed for an “entrepreneur-inventor-creator.” The Bear’s Club residence combines South Florida modern luxury with zen textures of the Far East (where the owner has traveled extensively). “Many of his most success-
01 Varying tones of tan and chocolate brown complete the Davie Residence's living room. 02 Natural elements, including a variety of plants and neutral tones, are seen throughout the home.
photos: Caroline Watkins
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Davie Residence Completed: 2007 Location: South Florida Bear's Club Residence Completed: 2003 Location: South Florida aleneworkman.com
Davie Residence Workman’s firm was called in after an architect expanded this South Florida property from 3,500 square feet to 8,000 square feet. “The house was originally supposed to be a temporary home for the clients, but in the process they decided to upscale the finishes and live here as their main home,” Workman says. The dining room and family room had been conceived as one large space, and Workman felt it called for some definition. “We added a buffet between them that rises up to the ceiling,” she says. “It visually opened up the space and created an interesting flow without closing it down.” The master bath, with its criss-crossed, marbleand-granite detailing, was completely customdesigned, as was the powder room. “These clients are high-profile people with vibrant personalities who wanted a space that was relaxing for their family and for private gatherings. A sort of retreat that would reflect where they are in their lives. Hopefully we accomplished that.”
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04 Intriguing artwork pulls one's eye into the dining area. 05 A home theater satisfies the homeowners' love for entertainment.
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03 Wooden cabinetry mixes with the metallic accents of the kitchen.
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“I try to combine a classical, fine-art background with more formal structural training, and create a blend of form and style and vision.” Alene Workman, owner
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06 Elegant draperies from Sutton and a LaJeune king-size bed provide warmth to the master bedroom. 07 A minimalist aesthetic creates a peaceful atmosphere in the bathroom.
ful products were created in Asia, and he wanted his new home to reflect the clean, contemporary tones he’d experienced while over there,” Workman says. “There’s a slight touch of Balinese aesthetic. It’s very understated but beautiful and functional. Many of the rooms open up to the back of the house -- the family room, the breakfast room, the kitchen all bleed into this outdoor area–this magnificently landscaped area with a beautiful pool and levels going down toward the water. We tried to keep an eye toward cultivating an indoor-outdoor lifestyle to accompany that.” An interesting quirk was that the client desired a television in every room, which, for purposes of aesthetic, required an eye for creative concealing. “One is hidden in the sitting area of the master bath, one is concealed behind woven leather panels that hinge and open out to reveal the TV monitor,” Workman says. “We created a motorized system where a stainless steel panel pulls out and moves up with the press of a button to reveal the TV.” After working on a large project that won attention and awards, Workman saw an opportunity to strike out on her own. Her first job, a new construction
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08 A screen wall allows light to flow into the den of the Bear's Club Residence.
10 Upholstered panels from Brambier's and an Edward Fields area rug are set in neutral tones to contrast the dark color of the Westgate Cabinets that line the wall. 11 The den has a built-in bookshlelf and plentiful seating.
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photos: Caroline Watkins
09 The living room features an Edward Fields area rug and Holly Hunt sofas.
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Bear’s Club Residence Workman’s firm created all the ceiling designs, lighted coves, soft uplighting and details on the woodwork, bases and capitals for the Florida home. The company selected materials for the floor patterning at the entry, which is made from limestone slate marble granite. The company also designed the staircase and handrail, which were constructed from limestone and mahogany. Also included in the interior design are pieces provided by Dakota Jackson chairs (dakotajackson.com), Christian Liaigre furniture (christianliaigre.fr/en), and an Ingo Maurer chandelier (ingo-maurer.com) that floats over the Wendell Castle-designed breakfast table (wendellcastlecollection.com). “There’s probably only seven of those chandeliers in the world,” Workman says. “And one is at the MOMA.”
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project in Florida, was published, and she ended up receiving the first of many design awards. At the ceremony, she was approached by the president of the Florida South ASID chapter. “It got me thinking about giving back to the industry,” she says. Volunteerism became a parallel to her rise in the interior design world. Workman eventually became president of the Florida South chapter, and was later elected to the ASID national board and served as vice president. Today, she is a national media spokesperson for ASID and she is routinely quoted in publications like the Wall Street Journal, the Baltimore Sun and the NewYork Times. Such active professionalism has not hindered the firm creatively. A glance through Workman’s portfolio confirms her imaginative design worldview. “I think the study of art and painting and drawing and sculpture and even studying art and architecture history – it gives you a sensitivity to looking at things in many different ways,” Workman says. “You take all those elements and it allows you to look at design in a more expansive way than just the study of an interior and walls and ceiling and floor. And lighting -- some of the great artists used light amazingly well in their paintings. It’s made me appreciate and think about lighting and interior space, which will fall flat unless it’s well lit.You end up thinking about times of day and exposure, or beach lighting versus apartment lighting in a city. Having a kind of artistic awareness can really open up your sensibilities.”
IM Interior Decoration, a company passionate about design, style, color, & quality of our products. We supply all FF & E for the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi & many others.
IM Interior Decoration, LLC PO Box 29503 | Dubai, UAE Tel: 971-4-3989068 Fax: 971-4-3989058 info.imi@im-kw.com
Designer Showcase A focus on the breadth of work from design professionals who have set the standard for creating grand and imaginative projects around the world.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Completed: 2011 Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE wilsonassociates.com
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Wilson Associates Trisha Wilson founded Wilson Associates in 1971, now one of the largest interior architectural design practices in the world. This umbrella practice houses four global design brands focusing on everything from hospitality to healthcare, as well as food and beverage experiences redefining the limits of normative interior design practices. As an upstart firm, Wilson recalls being, “fortunate to be hired to design the Anatole Hotel in downtown Dallas, which helped put us on the map for hospitality design.� After completion Wilson Associates searched for a new clientele that would continue to help it develop its products and brand sensibilities as interior designers. Wilson’s brands--Blueplate Studios (food and beverage design), Renovation/Innovation, Medica Design (healthcare design), and InnBox (global turnkey solutions service for interior design)-have further established the company as the global providers of a product controlled and overseen by a forward-thinking collaboration of total design.
text: Andrew Santa Lucia photos: Christopher Cypert
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“To describe it best, architecture sets the stage, while interior design makes that stage mean something and sets a mood to tell a story; it communicates a nonverbal message through texture, color, size and light.� Trisha Wilson, Founder
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01 This five-star hotel sits next to the world-renowned Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. 02 Sliding partition walls create an intimate and luxurious space. 03 With industrial overtones, the diplomat suite is both masculine and refined.
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he firm continues to achieve global status, having so far designed 2,500 projects in 46 countries on six continents. “Wilson Associates went international when hospitality mogul Sol Kerzner asked us to design ‘The Palace of the Lost City,’ a 338-room fantastical casino resort in South Africa,” Wilson says. “With this project, Wilson Associates was branded by the media as ‘changing the face of design in Africa.’” The Palace project helped to thrust Wilson Associates into a category of interior design all its own, which was further exhibited when Wilson designed the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel in the U.A.E. “As clients saw we were not afraid of large projects or new countries and cultures, they also saw our ability to create highly customized, luxurious interiors that told a story about each property,” says Wilson. “Close communication between the designer, architect, client and operator is of upmost importance, hence we have more than 30 different languages spoken across our seven offices, so there is always someone on hand to ensure exchanges are fully understood. Once the design concept is defined, we do extensive research in regards to the cultural, social, economic and environmental influences of the location and use that knowledge to fuel the design.” Located on the island of Saadiyat, the Park Hyatt is housed on a five-mile stretch along a white, sandy beach. It is the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Abu Dhabi, and features more than three hundred rooms, suites and villas--all with their own balcony or terrace--as well as a selection of fine restaurants that feature international cuisines. Along with private pools, there are four public swimming pools, a spa
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and a tennis court, which is a part of the hotel’s fitness area.The hotel also meets LEED silver standards by implementing energy-efficient design techniques. Each experience created within the Park Hyatt--be it the external site or the Diplomat Suite or the Sea View King Bedroom Suit--as well as the more public lounges and grills, is possible only through the careful cohesion between Wilson’s brands. A message from Hourhub Private Limited
The company’s vision of an interdisciplinary dialogue between architecture and design practice allows it to see both as independent for specific parts of the project and conjoined for others. “You might notice we ‘create’ interiors, not necessarily ‘design’ them because it takes both disciplines to truly give birth to a space; as interior architectural designers, we design the entire interior space, which is brought to life by arched ceilings, vast windows, mixed-level lobbies [and] exposed beams,” Wilson says. “To describe it best, architecture sets the stage, while interior design makes that stage mean something and sets a mood to tell a story; it communicates a non-verbal message through texture, color, size and light.” The interdependent relationship between the profession of interior design and the discipline of architecture has had a long and fruitful history, now separated as distinct practices, but Wilson Associates has found a productive exchange between both without losing the integrity of either.
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Hourhub Private Limited has been providing cost effective, quality floor coverings to the hospitality industry for the last 10 years. Nurturing a strong partnership with Essence Carpet Manufacturing Co. Ltd. in the manufacturing of custom, handmade carpets, we have been able to finish some of the most prestigious hotels in numerous countries including, Kempinski Dubai, Dubai Marina, InterContinental Singapore and Grand Hyatt Shenzhen. We believe in a commitment to this legacy. A message from Warisan 1989-2012 -- Since our beginning, our ambition has been to transform the natural resources of SE Asia into products which have style, comfort, longevity, and elegance. We present a range of samples and collections using locally available raw materials, giving them life by imaginative design.
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Hospitality & Residential Interiors Since 1989
Ayada Maldives, Maghuduvaa
W-Hotels Scottsdale
Four Seasons Hualalai
carpet design, manufactoring, and installation
158 Kallang Way #03-555 Singapore 349245 Contact: Ms. Crisfina Tan
Tel: +65 6392 3200 Fax: +65 6392 8816 Hp: +65 9111 2869 Email: crisfina@hourhub.com
Jl. Raya Padang Luwih 198 Br. Tegal Jaya, Dalung, Kuta, Bali (80361), Indonesia Tel: 62 (361) 421752 Fax: 62 (361) 421214, sales@warisan.com
DESIGNER SHOWCASE
Modern Perch Completed: 2007 Location: Portlock, HI Royal Hawaiian Completed: 2008 Location: Waikiki, Oahu philpotts.net
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Philpotts Interiors Based in Honolulu and San Francisco, Philpotts Interiors engages with two of the Pacific Coast’s largest cultural hubs. Situating its work between the Bay Area and Hawaii creates an interesting dichotomy between legacy, location and culture. “Philpotts Interiors often serves as a cultural resource for our clients; we routinely employ local artists and craftsmen on projects to bring an undeniable authenticity to the work. Providing support to the art and local community has long been part of the company’s policy,” says Marion Philpotts-Miller, current principal.
text: Andrew Santa Lucia photos: modern perch: David Franzen royal hawaiian: Art Grey
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01 Woven wicker, custom carved teak table tops and textured fabrics paired with simple lines of classic furniture provide the casual yet elegant atmosphere the owner desired. Many of the furnishings were “one of a kind” pieces from Indonesia and the Orient. 02 Taking advantage of the tropical trade winds, great care was given to the position of the house on the site and the flow of the spaces within the architecture. Interior and exterior materials marry and reflect the islands. 03 Textural simplicity became the primary theme for this custom home in East Oahu where interiors and exteriors blend into the views of the Koko Head and the Pacific Ocean. 04 Large flagstone quartzite stone floors anchor the great room and main living areas. Using texture as art, the strong ocean teal stucco wall provides a focal point and leads the eye back out to the ocean. 05 The terrace extends beyond the walls and melts into the landscape and view. 06 The edge of the property seams to bleed into the Pacific Ocean. Intentionally designed to maximize the view, perception of space and feeling of relaxation.
As a “trailblazing designer” in the 1960’s, Mary Philpotts McGrath, her mother and founder, focused on hospitality, resort, high-end residential and commercial projects throughout the U.S., Asia and the Pacific. Philpotts Interiors’ oeuvre includes such high profile projects as the newly renovated Royal Hawaiian Hotel, the Hawaii Convention Center and Disney’s new resort at Ko Olina. In its production of immersive interiors, Philpotts has established itself as a translator of local culture attune with modern sensibilities on design and technology that create a true sense of place. Sense and place individually help delineate what and how Philpotts designs. Philpotts-Miller says, “Design voices are fundamentally authentic when based on the origins of the environment versus some glorified themed concept. It is not to say that design is restricted by this foundation, but rooted there and watered so it grows out of its environment, where the beauty becomes a wonderful collective script unfolding through collaboration, courage and discipline.”
“Design voices are fundamentally authentic when based on the origins of the environment versus some glorified themed concept.” Marion Philpotts-Miller, principal
Philpotts-Miller and design principal Jon Staub, both first cousins, grew up splitting time between Hawaii and the West Coast. Within that history, they grew up and played in and around the Iconic Hawaiian mid-century modern
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architecture of Vladimir Ossipoff – the Russian American architect. “Both Jon and I as kids played at the ‘Outrigger Canoe Club’ and the ‘Pacific Club’ and while there is a retrained and distilled practice to our work, we are mindful of the progression of forward thinking design so as to make it fresh and original but grounded in our roots,” says Philpotts-Miller. Historical understanding enables an authentic and new product for Philpotts, along with a sense of continuity. Philpotts-Miller and Staub, alongside design principal Lowell Tom, root their design process and products in straightforward intentions. “Reflecting on the indoor-outdoor environments of both California and Hawaii we assimilated a design aesthetic and understanding without a real consciousness of how interiors and architecture [meld] together,” says Philpotts-Miller. Central to their approach is an understanding that indoor-outdoor boundaries in Hawaii are “blurred and outdoor living is celebrated.” In its spirited celebration of the ambiguity between inside and outside, as well as its framing of nature’s majestic views, Modern Perch exemplifies Philpotts Interiors’ dedication to creating environments that exalt its sites. Staub says
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07 The swaying palms are a perfect backdrop to the new stonework flooring and comfy seating at the Coconut Grove Lanai. 08 Floral touches complete the island aesthetic of the guestroom. 09 A handsome Koa desk and Savage prints adorn the walls at the concierge and reception area. 10 Traditional Koa rockers and a Matson print welcome guests to sit and enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean at the Lurline Lanai.
Royal Hawaiian that Modern Perch, “is perched on a lava shelf above the deep blue South Pacific ocean giving it a front row seat.” Edges and opening frames accent this dramatic position with no sacrifice to the livability of the home. Staub points out that the breathtakingly framed views help to, “draw in the drama of the power of the water,” into the interior action of the house, effectively creating a seamless visual transition between nature and synthetic design. Philpotts accomplishes no easy task by creating contrast between design and nature, without competition–firstly, because the company wants to focus on the site and secondly, because it may not be wise to compete with a site as idyllic as this one. Through materiality, views and its subsequent composition, Philpotts effectively created a win-win situation for both inhabitant and designer.
Marion Philpotts-Miller and Lowell Tom employed its “sense of place” concept to enhance the Royal Hawaiian’s colorful heritage and signature style. “The warmth of the iconic exterior is brought inside using rich standards classic forms; newly designed, lavishly colored rugs, decorative grillwork and signature lighting set a rich tone,” says Philpotts-Miller. “Updated classic elements pay tribute to the hotel’s majestic heritage with artwork by Eugene Savage, vintage koa furniture, and exotic furnishings reminiscent of the days when steamships regularly brought well-heeled travelers to Hawaii.” Through historical accuracy and nostalgic images, the arrival felt by visitors of old is recreated by using, “bold greens, pinks and browns mixed with floral carpets, textured wall coverings and
Philpotts Interiors achieves a Pacific Modern sensibility through “tying in and referencing site, but not trying to replicate or over embellish it through the interior.” Since, “indigenous design is fundamental to [its] design foundation,” projects like Modern Perch and Royal Hawaiian Hotel can authentically recall things such as site-specific materiality, local culture and history, effectively providing a reflection of that periodicity and location, to the people that interact with the company’s interiors.
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vintage photographs.” Guests settle into fresh, elegant rooms reminding themselves that, “the journey is as important as reaching the destination.” The new Royal Hawaiian presents a fresh renovation and a “new style for five-star resorts around the world.” In completion, the old Pink Palace stands revitalized and its facelift makes it a “Modern Day Classic.”
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Finest and most luxurious furniture and home dĂŠcor pieces from Indonesia, Thailand, India and beyond in Honolulu Hawaii
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rare antiques artful accents exclusive furniture
A message from Baik Design Now in its 25th year, Baik Designs has had the pleasure of working on many fine homes and projects with Philpotts and Associates. A number of the bespoke pieces shown in Mary Philpotts' "Hawaii: A Sense of Place" were sourced by Baik's owners Linda and Ed Tseu during their regular travels to Asia. Statement items- coffee tables, cabinets, daybeds and interior accent pieces can be found at their showroom in Honolulu's Gentry Pacific Design Center on Nimitz Highway.
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gentry pacific design center 560 north nimitz highway 808 524 2290 baikdesigns.com
Photo courtesy of Alene Workman Interior Design, Inc. Featured: Calacatta Marble
KEYSGRANITE A Daltile® Company
Miami 305.477.7363 │ Orlando 407.292.2691 │ Palm Beach 561.375.8887 www.keysgranite.com
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uxury Home Quarterly lauds the top tier companies in the design world that are not only a part of, but also head the American Society of Interior Designers. Founded in 1975, ASID is “a community of people driven by a common love for design and committed to the belief that interior design, as a service to people, is a powerful, multi-faceted profession that can positively change people's lives.� The national organization is the largest and oldest organization for interior designers, and we give significant consideration to companies that represent the motivators and trendsetters that keep ASID thriving.
Among our selection of designers are three companies who play leading roles in the organization. Marsha Faulkner-president of ASID and LEED-accredited designer of Studio M Interior Design, Inc. pays special attention to sustainability; whether it be designing for private residences, offices or healthcare facilities; Brianna Jones, president elect of ASID and head designer of Brianna Michelle Interior Design, who takes world travel experiences and uses them toward imagining thrilling and new design perspectives and Amanda Webster of Amanda Webster Design, who is known for her commitment to detail when mixing elegance with comfort. Celebrate the leaders of interior design who constantly strive to bring forth the latest and most inspiring elements that transform spaces across the globe. Vilano Beach House BY SCHULTE DESIGN / p. 148 luxuryhomequarterly.com
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“We create spaces that capture and facilitate the end users’ lifestyle in such a way that their lives are enhanced because of it.”
The Kenyon Beach House Completed: 2008 Location: Crescent Beach, FL designmindllc.com
Larry Wilson, Principal
Designmind, LLC Design duo turnS basic ideas into beautiful working and living spaces by Tara Imperatore Ensuring their clients consistently receive a high level of individualized service is of the upmost importance to Larry Wilson and Rebecca Davisson; so much so that they are, and plan to remain, the only members of Jacksonville-based Designmind. “Because it’s just the two of us, what you see is what you get. When a client calls, they get one of us so we can be very responsive and personal with them,” Wilson says. The two worked together for several years before they decided to launch Designmind. They brought a combined 60 years of experience and similar design philosophies to their new venture three years ago. “We believe that any environment, be it residential or commercial, should be a true reflection of its occupants; otherwise the whole process is self-serving,” Wilson says. “Our goal is to make our clients’ lives easier and more joyful.” Known for its stunning contemporary work, the firm was enlisted to transform a three-story, 4,800-square-foot oceanfront home in Crescent Beach, FL into a relaxing retreat. From space planning to interior detailing, custom lighting and cabinet design, every component was crafted by Designmind. From day one, the company worked closely with the architect to ensure a cohesive product. “What’s interesting about this house, and most of the work we do is that the architecture and interior design becomes one
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integral statement; one can’t really live without the other,” says Wilson. “It was a true collaboration literally from the ground up.” The clients desired low-maintenance spaces that would be both comfortable and functional. “Their criteria was that everything had to be usable, touchable, child proof and dog proof,” Wilson says. “Our guiding force was choosing materials that would meet the family’s needs and hold up to the beach environment.” The result sees natural concrete floors, Florida cypress cabinetry, showers lined with solid surface material in slab form, and cozy, durable fabrics like chenille. A quiet, neutral color palette with fun punches of color and unique pieces of Asian-inspired art
pull it all together to create a true sanctuary. “We’re not interested in creating stage sets, but machines for living and working,” he says. “We create spaces that capture and facilitate the end users’ lifestyle in such a way that their lives are enhanced because of it.” With no plans to expand or transition in the future, Designmind is determined to stay on the exact path it is on now by continuing to provide good, quality design to their residential and commercial clients. “You probably won’t see us jumping on the band wagon and following the latest fad,” Wilson says. “We tend to do clean, solid, contemporary design that has longevity rather than trying to be a flash in the pan.”
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01 An early 17th-century Buddha statue from Thailand sits on top of a cherry wood buffet overlooking the expandable butcher-block table. 02 A Masland taupe and black waffle-weave carpet anchors the rattan-wrapped Donghia bed. The Krishna statue is from India.
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03 The homeowner and artist Rita Kenyon's painting, "Wave #2," is centered over an antique Asian cabinet. The exterior doors are Mahogany. 04 The open kitchen features GE Monogram appliances and black leather & steel counter stools from Oriac Design. The ceiling is reclaimed cypress from the Suwannee River.
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Completed: 2011 Location: Jacksonville, FL amandawebsterdesign.com
Amanda Webster Design USING CLIENTS’ PERSONAL TOUCHES TO INSPIRE UNIQUE SPACES 01
by Tara Imperatore AmandaWebster knew she wanted to be an interior designer from a very young age. While most first graders were drawing animals or flowers, she was sketching furniture. Webster says, “My mother used to tease me that after leaving somewhere, I wouldn’t remember the people, but I could recall the spaces with a photographic memory.” These early inspirations took shape in college, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in interior design from Florida State University. She enjoyed work in both the residential and commercial realms, but got a taste for high-end residential design while with Catlin Interiors, and in 1995, she launched Jacksonville-based Amanda Webster Design. The company gradually grew from taking on one-room jobs to whole houses. Led by Webster’s innate attention to detail, today it is a thriving residential and commercial design firm going 16 years strong. “What we are known for and get most of our referrals from clients, architects and contractors for, is being extremely detailed,” says Webster. “We’re very good at writing specifications and doing all the interior finish work, tile work, cabinet design, lighting design and various detailing; we coordinate everything.”
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The St. John’s River is the backdrop for one such custom creation that puts a playful spin on a contemporary classic approach. “The homeowners were in love with the design process and enjoyed every aspect of it, but really allowed us to lead,” Webster says. Organic wood surfaces, bronze and leather furnishings, and rich tones of orange, olive and brown are balanced with modern, stainless steel appliances and sleek, rolling slide panel doors concealing flat screen televisions. Though impeccably detailed, the house does not take itself too seriously. Eclectic artwork and whimsical pieces can be found throughout including sculptures of sheep grazing and an oversized yarn ball and knitting needle in the upstairs hobby room. “They have a really great sense of style so we were able to do a lot fast,” she says. “It was probably one of the most exciting projects I’ve ever worked on.”
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01 The custom Laura Kirar wool and hemp rug by Oasis adds texture and warmth to the home's living room, which is adorned with Italian walnut and leather brushed granite details.
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02 The kitchen showcases fine cabinetry from Beaches Woodcrafts and leather barstools from Bontempi Casa add a touch of glamour. 03 Custom cedar doors with smoke art glass, by Architectural Resources & Associates, Inc., along with custom bronze door hardware by Sun Valley Bronze welcome visitors. Mosaic brown marble anchors the perimeter columns creating perfect niches for local artist Steve Williams’ painting and a custom three-colored bronze table and mirror. 04 Playful elements in this space such as a wool ball and needle structure by Aaron Kramer showcase the client's love for knitting. The tabletop rope sculpture is by fiber artist Ellen Dickinson.
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Sound Installation & Design, Inc. is a small business based in Jacksonville, Florida. We specialize in home theater, automation, security, and electrical solutions. 5151 Sunbeam Rd. Jacksonville, FL Ph. 904.732.7486 F. 904.732.7487
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06 The dining room boasts a custom six-foot-long shell and crystal branch fixture in varying shades of amber, gold and smoke. 07 The wife’s office serves as a cozy get-a-way and practical work space. The embroidered drapery panels frame the outside view while custom zebra wood cabinetry and desk combination backed with Spinneybeck leather magnetic wall tiles and wenge create a sophisticated and rich feel. All electronics were carefully stored behind hidden roll-outs. Custom cabinetry by Wood & Laminate.
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Being diverse is just as important as being detailed when it comes to her designs, so Webster finds herself constantly adapting and delivering one-of-a-kind results. “When you go through our portfolio you’ll see that our projects don’t look anything alike and I’m proud of that,” she says. To ensure such individuality, Webster likes to incorporate her client‘s existing “treasures” into each phase of the design process. “What I’m best at is getting inside the client’s head and heart to determine what they love and then I use the design principles I’ve learned over the years to put it together in a beautiful composition,” says Webster. “I work very hard not to repeat light fixtures or furniture pieces or fabrics because I want everyone’s home to feel unique.”
a message from Jaycox, Reinel & Associates Architects This Mediterranean-style residence was designed to suit the owners’ taste for crisp lines and smooth, low maintenance surfaces. We accomplished their request through the use of a combination of honed limestone, cast stone and synthetic stucco. Spanish Cedar arbors soften the look and add dramatic shadow lines. The wood was stained to complement the windows and clay tile roof. The interior trim is highly contemporary in its style to continue the same look and feel of simple elegance.
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photos: Neil Rashba
05 The jewelry box inspired bathroom features a custom vanity by Beaches Woodcrafts. An enameled cast iron countertop and sink enhance the olive, caramel and bronze shades of the ceiling and floor.
Photo by Neil Rashba
2002 San Marco Blvd. Ste. 200 | Jacksonville, FL | P. 904.396.4420
www.jaycoxreinel.com
Exclusively at
904.389.6659 4048 Herschel St. • Jacksonville, FL rayware.com
asid florida north
The Faulkner House Completed: 2010 Location: Jacksonville, FL
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Studio M Interior Design, Inc. Close attention to detail and clients' needs are paramount to this Florida design company by Zipporah Porton After spending more than 16 years as an interior designer for major firms, Marsha Faulkner took the leap into creative freedom in 2010 by forming Studio M Interior Design, Inc. "I had always known that I wanted to be a business owner,” says Faulkner. “When it felt like the right time had come I decided to spread my wings and do my own thing.”
“You try very hard not to totally impose your style on your clients; it needs to be their taste,” says Faulkner. “When I’m with my clients, it’s all about them, and I do more listening than talking.” The Faulkner residence is extremely personal for Studio M, because it is the interior designer’s own house. Married to an architect, the two collaborated on building a sustainable home using simple, “builder-grade” products in a unique way. Sustainability has always interested Faulkner, and though she infuses eco-friendly practices into many of her clients’ designs, with her own home she went out of her way to limit her carbon footprint.
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02 01 The dining room features natural elements such as woven cane chairs and a palm pendant over the table to bring in warmth to the contemporary space. 02 The living room features tall sweeping walls, which are perfect to showcase artwork. 03 The use of clerestory windows brings in an abundance of light throughout the day, making artificial light not necessary until the evening. 04 The house is an "upside down" house with the living room, dining room, kitchen and even the front door on the second floor.
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photos: Doug Eng
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Studio M works with both residential and commercial clients, and offers a wide range of design services. From homes to office spaces to restaurants, Faulkner believes that what makes her stand out is her ability to create a space that adheres to each individual client’s desire. She does not push her own style, but does try to encourage clients to use original pieces from local artists.
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“We tried to put as many LEED principles into practice as possible,” says Faulkner. “My husband and I are really interested in sustainability.” The “upside-down” house has bedrooms on the first floor, with the living room and kitchen on the second in order to take advantage of natural light and the view of the lake behind the house. A series of clear, clerestory windows located near the high ceiling let ambient light pour in, so during the day the Faulkner’s never need a lamp. The floor is made of cork, a sustainable feature that is becoming more popular throughout Faulkner’s designs. Just outside of town is a tree yard, where Faulkner purchased large, thick slices of Camphor wood, complete with bark. She dried out the pieces and created a bar in the kitchen and a built-in foyer table. She also used stainless steel kitchen-grade tables for bathroom countertops
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to emphasize how “ordinary” materials can give a home “character and personality.” “Our goal for the space was a warm, contemporary feel,” says Faulkner. “We picked warm colors to offset the minimalistic nature and simple shapes. So many neighborhoods at a certain price point all look the same, and we wanted to show that if you think differently, you can create something interesting without spending lots of money.”
a message from Ray Ware Hardware Inc. Ray Ware Hardware, Inc., established in 1939, specializes in door hardware, exterior lighting, bathroom accessories, bathroom fixtures, cabinet hardware, and a quality metal and wood doors and frames. Family owned and operated through three generations, we only offer product lines sharing our commitment to quality and design manufacturing standards.
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Vilano Beach House Completed: 2008 Location: Vilano Beach, FL
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Schulte Design Jacksonville firm succeeds in building client relationships by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford Trust is the key to our most important relationships, from personal to familiar to business. For Schulte Design, building trust with its clients at all levels has become the foundation for a decade-long successful run in the Jacksonville market. While embracing the technological advances within the last 10 years, Schulte Design still emphasizes customer touch points over technology. “We have a group of young, fresh designers who work well with the newest Computer Assisted Drawing (CAD) technologies and they are a great resource,” says Alicia Weaver, vice president with Schulte Design. “We pay a lot of attention to our clients, so we rarely have one person on a project–we work as a team. We build that trust and the clients respect you and want your input in all design decisions.”
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The decisions of Schulte Design and the trust of their clients are on full display for all to observe at the Vilano Beach Project. “We had worked with this client prior to this home, listened to his needs carefully and built trust so we know what they liked,” says Weaver. “We often build from the ground up, so being on schedule is key to build that trust.” The Vilano Beach Project fits the needs of the empty nest owners. The company was hired to help specify architectural materials and completely furnish the master bedroom suite, kitchen and dining room. The second floor is now the main living area, which includes a coffee bar, breakfast station and laundry room along with the master bedroom suite.
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01 The master bath features floating his and hers vanities, a soaking tub, custom cabinetry and a sitting area.
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02 There is a built in coffee bar in the loft off of the master suite. The homeowners enjoy great books and coffee in the loft or on the second story veranda. 03 A round dining table was chosen to juxtapose the square and linear layout of the home. The mix of banquettes and woven chairs create a casual dining experience. 04 A heavy four poster bed with raffia headboard and pale blue ceiling creates an interesting contrast to the soft neutral fabrics.
“The homeowner’s wanted the house to feel casual and comfortable. The warm woods are a nice contrast to the light wall colors. We incorporated colorful fabrics to give it a little punch.” Alice Weaver, Vice President
photos: Sargent Architectural Photography, Kim Sargent
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“They had a specific idea of how they wanted to live,” says Weaver. That idea included warm colors within the interior design, along with warm honey walnut-stained floors. The reclaimed wood flooring is hand-carved and hand-scraped. “They definitely wanted that coastal feel, with a little bit of traditional ideas of design,” says Weaver. “The homeowner’s wanted the house to feel casual and comfortable. The warm woods are a nice contrast to the light wall colors. We incorporated colorful fabrics to give it a little punch.” The dining room of the Vilano Beach Project provides additional comfort for guests, as it is used for daily meals and not only on special occasions. “The design preferences of the Jacksonville market has changed a lot in the last 10 years,” says Weaver. “Now there is a movement to a more transitional style and simple look that is green, fresh and contemporary--a real reflection of Jacksonville’s geography.” The future of Schulte Design looks bright, as their new office in downtown Jacksonville begins a new chapter for the firm. “Everyone works well together and all of our employees have their own style,” says Weaver. “We will continue to work with the client and give them what they want, which is often a mix of contemporary and traditional styles. Clients are surprised when we can do it for them without their home feeling like their grandparent’s house, and that builds trust.”
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55 West Apartments Completed: 2010 Location: Orlando, FL
Dawn Kaiser Design Services, LLC.
dkdsinteriors.com
The Zen of Modernity by Zipporah Porton Active in the field of interior design since 1991, Dawn Kaiser headed out on her own in 2005 to form Dawn Kaiser Design Services, LLC. Offering a full range of services encompassing conceptual design, space planning, window treatments and more, her aesthetic leans to what she calls, “Zen modern.” The key words that encompass Kaiser’s themes are quiet, understated, purposeful, comfortable and restrained.
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“Your space needs to be a sanctuary from the overload of ‘chatter’ from daily life,” says Kaiser. Though she is happy to design a space from top to bottom, she has also coined the term “interior botox” to describe a quick-fix service. The lowcost offering is a styling consultation that includes walking through the space, making on-the-spot recommendations, and coming up with a list of items as well as where they can be purchased for the client to implement the ideas themselves. Kaiser describes her taste as “masculine,” gravitating toward geometric lines for furniture and fabrics. She also has a passion for mid-century modern furniture, which she often incorporates into her designs. Samples of her work can be found in commercial and residential projects around the country and in the Caribbean, with her inspiration stemming from travel, TV shows such as “Mad Men” and social media sites like Pinterest.
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For 55 West, a new apartment complex in the heart of Orlando, Kaiser was hired after a prominent U.S. developer introduced her to the European owner of the property. “I was brought in after the building had been designed, so I had the task of integrating the existent intent with the client’s vision, then building upon that with my own perception of the space,” says Kaiser. Though the client was extremely involved, Kaiser still had a chance to incorporate various facets of her overall style. She created multiple wall textures by mixing rough, stacked stone with smooth iridescent glass style, and employed repetition by selecting a similar motif throughout. She also
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01 The custom wall design of oversized mirrors and the pop of an unexpected color creates a dramatic focal wall in this otherwise serene space.
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02 This bedroom is an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary design with the furnishings and patterned fabrics. It features a palette of soft neutrals and grass green as a surprise accent color. 03 With the outstanding view of The Plaza on Orange Avenue, the windows are the focal point of this area. A cool lounge chair in the corner gives the opportunity to watch the night life of the city below. 04 This corner unit open floor plan was a dream to create an urban space that was beautiful yet functional. The sophisticated scheme of gray, orange and chocolate was perfect for this space, which overlooks downtown Orlando.
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05 Youthful furnishings, fun textures and patterns and a palette of green, aqua, turquoise and bright white keeps this studio unit light and playful.
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threw in unexpected “zingers” in each room, such as an unusual art piece, fabric or paint tone.
photos: Harvey Smith Photography
The spot where she had the most fun was the apartment lobby, with terrazzo floors and organic lines in the ceiling and walls. Additionally, the Tribeca model, a luscious corner unit, allowed her to evoke an appealing “bachelor pad” feel. In her work with 55 West, as well as any other project she takes on, Kaiser’s ultimate goal is to avoid forcing 100% of her own designs into the space. Instead, she focuses on what the client is looking for, and turns it into a reality. “I pay attention to what my client’s expectations are, and incorporate that with the intention of my vision to create the perfect space for them,” she says.
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01 Turchin Residence Completed: 2011 Location: Windermere, FL briannamichelledesign.com
Brianna Michelle Interior Design Florida-based designer prepares to become President of ASID North Florida by Tara Imperatore After studying interior design at Michigan State University, Brianna Jones dove head first into the field with an internship followed by a full-time position at a notable interior design firm. From there she would go on to facilitate an interiors department at a nationally recognized architectural firm and then serve as regional director of operations for an architectural stone manufacturer. She became a licensed interior designer in 2006, and combining her many work experiences with pure ambition, started her own company in 2011. Based in Orlando, Brianna Michelle Interior Design is a boutique firm offering architectural detailing, construction specifications, furniture selection and so much more. “I provide my clients with a listening ear. Being able to work as a designer is an amazing opportunity to connect with people and design spaces that inspire them,” Jones says.
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Brianna Michelle Interior Design recently brought the Hamptons to an expansive lakefront home in Windermere, FL. Inspired by the lighthouse-like architecture, the interior concept easily followed. A coastal vibe fills the house complete with hickory wood flooring, vaulted pine ceilings, stained glass and calming tones of white, light blue and sand. The office is a bit of a departure, with clever aviation references made by lining the corners of the room with galvanized steel panels and furnishings with an aviator wing desk. “The architectural details pull a project together,” Jones says. “If you get the background right, you don’t have to overdo what you put into it.”
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photos: Eric Cucciaioni of Cucciaioni Photography
01 The office sits high above the water, capturing the incredible views of one of Florida’s many waterways.
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02 To blend the pool into the landscape, a flagstone deck and retaining wall were selected. A flagstone walkway completes the harmonious feel. 03 A banquette is integrated into the island, providing a cozy seating area. 04 The custom designed stained glass and brushed steel hood are a bold focal point in this kitchen. 05 Galvanized steel panels line the four corners of the office, adding a finishing touch to the white palette.
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06 06 The nature-inspired family room uses materials such as smooth, water washed river pebbles, solid hickory wood flooring, and pine planking throughout. 07 The dining room provides a sophisticated, yet casual entertaining space, which is perfect for either large dinner parties of intimate gatherings.
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“I provide my clients with a listening ear. Being able to work as a designer is an amazing opportunity to connect with people and design spaces that inspire them.” Brianna Jones, Owner
photos: Eric Cucciaioni of Cucciaioni Photography
Adding another accolade to her running list, Jones is currently the President-Elect of ASID North Florida and will be assuming the president position in September. She originally got involved in college with the ASID student chapter but knew she wanted to be more active. “I opened my mouth and said I would really like to be a bigger part of this,” she says. “And the next thing I know I’m being handed a binder and was in charge of monthly meetings in the Orlando area.” During her two-year term, Jones will be representing the Florida North chapter and determining how it moves forward while attending chapter meetings, leadership training, president’s forum and legislative symposium. “It is a great opportunity to see ASID on a national level,” she says. “I like to be on top of what’s going on in our industry, stay educated, and help the profession itself advance. ASID puts me in the inner circle to be able to make a difference and not just sit back and hope it goes in a certain direction.” Her clients and colleagues are often surprised to see such a young woman accomplishing so much, but Jones simply lets her passion drive her forward and her talent speak for itself.
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Traditional Craftsmanship and Artistry in Wood
Let us orchestrate your dream. For the perfect products for your kitchen or bath, stop by a Ferguson showroom. It’s where you’ll find the largest range of quality brands, a symphony of ideas, and trained product experts to help orchestrate your dream. With showrooms from coast to coast, come see why Ferguson is recommended by professional contractors and designers everywhere.
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13109 SW CR 346 | Archer, FL Ph. 352.373.8292 4102 A1A S. | St. Augustine, FL Ph. 904.217.8292 CarsonsCabinetry.com
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NorthSouth Studios, LLC The Artistic Essence of Interior Design
The O House Completed: 2010 Location: Gainesville, FL northsouthstudios.net
by Zipporah Porton Formed by a husband and wife team that began their careers in visual art, it makes sense that every project created by NorthSouth Studios has an innovative and unique look and feel. Marshall Howell and Elyse Ostland, the creative minds behind NorthSouth Studios, first met while working in an art studio. They married in 1996, and while Howell concentrated on painting, Ostland explored other artistic avenues, such as theming for Universal Studios. Eventually, Ostland realized that interior design was her passion, and Howell's construction knowledge prompted them to form the design/build firm NorthSouth Studios in 2001. “Our field presents a specific type of artwork,” says Howell. “When you're building something, the finished product is a form of art, especially
when Elyse is involved. And, it's rewarding to see the clients enjoy the end result.” NorthSouth Studios performs residential and commercial renovations and additions, from one room to complete ground-up home designs. Located in Deland, FL, the construction work is mainly local, while Ostland's interior design work and custom-made furniture can be found throughout the United States. Though Ostland would characterize their work as mainly contemporary, her ultimate goal is to create something unique and distinctive. “We never do the same thing twice,” says Ostland. “Whether we are doing contemporary or traditional work, we strive to keep the integrity of the architecture, and reflect the client's personality.”
The Olinger family learned of NorthSouth Studios from an article in the local paper, and gave Ostland and Howell free reign. The only request was that they wanted their home to feel like a pre-war apartment. Ostland had collaborated in the past on The Dakota in New York City, so the concept was etched in her mind. The three-bedroom Olinger residence had structural challenges, which required Howell to strip the home bare and start from scratch. Walls were moved and rooms rearranged, such as a study that was divided in half so part of it could serve as a grand master closet adjoining the master bathroom. To achieve the pre-war feeling, a key component was using dark, rich woods. Ostland and Howell removed the home's original Masonite doors and
photos: Aaron W. Bailey
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04 01 Custom cabinetry conceals all of the electronics for the entertainment system giving the design a clean look. The smoked arched mirrors frame the fireplace and help blend the television. 02 Walnut stained vertical cabinets frame the kitchen's work areas and enhance the tall ceilings while providing storage space. 03 Mixtures of Travertine stone tile are accented by the spa-like feel of the mixture of aqua glass tile. The medicine cabinets are extended to the ceiling to take advantage of the lofty space. 04 The walls of an existing guest bedroom were removed from the entry to create a library/office area on one side, and create additional footage for a large master bedroom closet on the opposite side.
installed wood doors that had been shipped raw and stained to match the kitchen cabinets. Ostland opted for heavier, traditional hardware and a mixture of materials. Leaded glass was used throughout to give the impression of an older home, and stone finishes replaced the typical ceramic. “The project was a lot of fun for us because they wanted a traditional style, but we were able to make the home old-world rich and comfortable with a contemporary twist,” says Ostland. “Like every project we take on, we wanted the Olinger’s to feel like they are living in our art.”
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The Dahlia Residence Completed: 2011 Location: Naples, FL beasleyandhenley.com
Beasley & Henley Interior Design Designing one-of-a-kind spaces from the outside in by Tara Imperatore The passion Troy Beasley brings into the spaces he designs has not wavered in 20 years. Shortly after graduating from design school, he started his business with partner Stephanie Henley. Beasley & Henley Interior Design evolved quickly from builder models to high-end residences for private clients, where the majority of their focus still lies. “We are able to touch many lives with the work we do; we can completely change a space by going in and adding our technical details and creative spin,” Beasley says.
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One of the many homes Beasley & Henley has lent its professional expertise to is a three-bedroom, three-bath, 3,500-square-foot vacation home in Naples. Looking out onto a golf course, the Dahlia residence mimics the serenity of its surroundings with a light, airy color palette of grays, creams and golds. While some spaces feel more feminine, like the delicate dining room with plush armchairs and sophisticated round table, others have a more masculine sense, like the study outfitted with dark wood bookshelves, striped walls and an antler chandelier. Given full reign on this project, Beasley felt free to take risks and leave his personal touch throughout. “On a secondary residence we can sometimes become even more creative,” he says. “There are fewer parameters, so I get to do what I do best: design, create and have fun with it.”
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As a member of ASID, Beasley & Henley are among a community of degreed, educated and experienced professionals, offering a great resource for networking and information. “ASID is a culture of interior designers that has worked hard to legitimize interior design as a creative and functional art form, and gives us credibility in the industry,” he says. From attending trade shows and traveling, to being vice president of the Florida Institute of Classical Architecture and Alumni Chair for his alma mater, Beasley is constantly finding influence for his work. “I’m
just in it. My entire life is in it,” he says. “Every day of the week I’m in it.” After 18 years, Beasley & Henley Interior Design continues to create timeless spaces for discerning clients, and grow with each experience. “I find this field and this job rewarding on many different levels,” Beasley says. “It constantly challenges me as a creative to come up with new ideas and new ways to present things. It’s a roller coaster ride and I’m a thrill seeker, loving every minute of it!”
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photos: Stephen Allen Photography
Doing more than selecting furnishings and fabrics, Beasley & Henley go deeper for their design inspiration, utilizing the architectural structure to compose a room from the ground up. Beasley says, “The architecture defines the footprint of the house; then we go inside and manipulate walls or spaces based on the client’s preferences. We’ve developed our firm around that process.”
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01 The entertainment center, customdesigned by Troy Beasley, accentuates the height of the living room and the tall mirrors make the room appear larger.
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02 This is a simple yet dramatic room that gains its interest from it use of contrasts and interesting elements. The chandelier is notable for its interesting shape and transparent drum shade. The artwork is bold in contrast to the rest of the room. The window treatments blend in with the walls and the ceiling details are painted to match the bed cover. Â 03 The walls of the study are Venetian plastered in wide stripes and the antique chest and whimsical chandelier contrast the modern elements of the space. 04 The study has masculine tones with wood-clad furnishings that are tailored and modern. The customized desk features a sleek wooden top.
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The Harrington Residence Completed: 2010 Location: New Smyrna Beach, FL gribbleinteriors.com
Gribble Interior Group
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Client-driven originality fuels Florida-based company by Zipporah Porton With a mother who has been in the interior design business for over 40 years, it was only natural for Grant Gribble to follow suit. Gribble grew up in the industry, and started sketching house plans at a young age. “I idolized the work of Frank Lloyd Wright,” says Gribble, president of Gribble Interior Group, of his early influences. “And that led me to know the importance of getting an education.” The family business was originally known as Alice Gribble Interiors. Then, after Gribble graduated from the interior design program at Florida State University, he and his mother, Alice, formed Gribble Interior Group (GIG) in 1984. “I am very family oriented,” says Gribble. “There is a trust that comes with working together with your family that you might not get in the traditional business partnership. On the flip side, you probably get a little more emotional when working with your family.” The primary focus for GIG is residential interior design, though the firm also works on commercial projects as well. For both types of spaces, Gribble avoids focusing on a specific style or theme, choosing ultimately to make each project client driven and original. “My objective is to be open to being able to create all types of environments, traditional or contemporary, timeless or the latest trends,” says Gribble, who enjoys using his own custom pillow and ottoman designs to make the spaces feel more personal. For the four bedroom, 5,000-square-foot private residence in New Smyrna Beach, FL, the client wanted the home to reflect the arts and crafts style of the past, yet incorporate today’s technologies and select contemporary furnishings. Gribble’s overall goal was to follow the client’s wishes, as well as cre-
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ate unique color stories. Thus, the fabrics and furnishings were chosen to complement one another as a collection, rather than matching as a set. “The goal is to never look trite or hurried, but to rather look like a lifelong passion of creating an eclectic marriage of style,” says Gribble, who is never afraid to use color. Some creative features of the home include a powder bath vanity, which appears to be from the 1930’s, and a stairway that serves as the air return
for the HV/AC system. Additionally, the architectural style and great attention to woodworking details add to the home’s overall design. With the New Smyrna Beach project, similarly to all of Gribble’s designs, Gribble strives to absorb all of the information given, and then dig even deeper. “With every project, I want to make sure my clients know that they are the key element in the process, and to make sure their wishes are what lead the direction of the design,” says Gribble.
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“With every project, I want to make sure my clients know that they are the key element in the process, and to make sure their wishes are what lead the direction of the design.� Grant Gribble, president
photos: Taylor Architectural Photography
01 This ocean side nook is an extension off the entry foyer and incorporates custom window seats for a panoramic view. The ceiling details are of quarter sawn oak.
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02 This guest bedroom features an oceanside view and is appointed with an English rice bed, and custom woven area rug. 03 A custom-designed vanity featuring tambour doors, a marble top and stained glass doors in the powder bath completes the authentic arts and crafts aesthetic. 04 The ceiling detail emphasizes the architecture and the stone fireplace. A custom rug design helps to ground the sitting area.
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1805 Ocean Completed: 2011 Location: Jacksonville Beach, FL
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ie: Designs Jacksonville-based company gathers inspiration from international influences by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford When born in Casablanca and raised in the south of France, it may only seem natural to have an eye for art, architecture and design, but for Veronique Schleef her career was not only determined by geography but also by her genes. “My father was a commercial architect and my grandfather was a banker and artist who worked with my father on the side,” she says. “I always knew I would get into this industry because I was always drawing as a child.” Her childhood love for art and design followed her into the professional world where Schleef worked as a designer in high-end furniture stores before coming to Jacksonville 12 years ago. Since establishing ie: Designs in 2007, Schleef has grown her clientele by providing maximum value for highend luxury renovations.
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Her experience in the industry, along with living and visiting all over the world, provides a rare insight that gives Schleef an advantage over her competitors. In the United States she has lived in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Colorado, New Jersey and Texas. Her international stops include Asia, Belgium, Italy, Spain and she also studied interior design at American Intercontinental University in England. “It is definitely an advantage because you are more open-minded and have a broader view in design and in life,” she says. “My understanding of culture and diversity effects my work and allows me to work in a wide range of designs, from very contemporary to very traditional.” One of Schleef’s design projects is a home nestled on the ocean in Jacksonville Beach. The makeover
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01 The home boasts an unhindered view of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean that is just steps away. The ground floor space was converted from vinyl lattice covered storage to a functional outdoor living space. 02 The living room unifies comfort and intimacy without interfering with the spectacular ocean view. 03 To blend with the beautiful ocean views, a sun bronzed palette was used to complement the contrasting dark furniture.
photos: Ed Hall
04 The wine cellar was built as a square structure under the floor and had a custom metal spiral staircase with "green" bamboo stairs as well as a circular wine rack capable of holding over 600 bottles of wine. 05 In the master bathroom, a mixture of travertine and river rock wind through the floor to achieve the ultimate balance of laid back serenity and elegance.
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on the 2,500-square-foot home was a complete redesign and renovation. “I started working with this client seven years ago and it is our third project together,” says Schleef. “He bought a house by the ocean that was very dated, so we gutted everything and started from scratch.” They tore out and reconfigured the kitchen, master bathroom and closets. The new floor plan required the removal of a dated three-sided fireplace and a whole new layout for the kitchen and master suite. Schleef’s international resources were used by importing “green” wood floors from Belgium to give the home an exotic look. Despite a complete renovation, she made sure not to lose the priceless characteristic of the property—the ocean view.
“We took great care not to obstruct the amazing ocean views. By using a subdued color palette in tones of gray and gold, we were able to keep the design from being a distraction,” she says. Schleef operates with two associates, Tamara Bywaters and Terina Medina, and they call themselves “The Three Musketeers.” The team environment allows ie: Designs to prosper and allocate proper resources from the initial client consultation to project completion. “I can visualize from the beginning of the project what the final design will look like. It always ends up just how I envisioned,” says Schleef. “Our clients appreciate the efficiency and professionalism that we bring to the table. Combined with my background and experience, I believe that is what builds long term client loyalty.”
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The Berry Project Completed: 2010 Location: St. Augustine, FL mecrossinteriordesign.com
M. & E. Cross, Inc. Interior Design
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Design duo brings NYC energy to comfortable Florida living by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford The geographical relationship between New York City and the state of Florida is well documented, from the thousands of Big Apple retirees that call the Sunshine State home, to the spring training home of the legendary New York Yankees. M. & E. Cross, Inc. Interior Design, made up of the husband and wife Marc and Eden Cross, has also thrived from this relationship, using the couple’s culture and design influence as native New Yorkers to build a successful client base in Florida for over 30 years. “Being born and raised in Manhattan is definitely a benefit in the design industry,” says Eden. “You are exposed to a lot of cultural influences that do not exist in other areas of the country. Many of our clients have fast-paced lives so we want to help them create an environment that is part of their own skin and nurtures their spirit.” M. & E. Cross moved from the New York City market to Florida in 1979, just in time for the heyday of the distinct 1980’s design era for Miami. Regardless of era or geographic location, Eden and Marc take a proactive “hands-on” approach with their clients, from conception to completion.
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“We have never done cookie cutter designs,” says Marc. “We try to be chameleon like with our design options while listening closely to our clients needs. What they don’t say can be as important [as] what they do say.” This attention to detail was vital when M. & E. Cross landed author and novelist Steve Berry, who captures readers with his historical thriller novels that have sold over 14 million copies around the world. “The reason he called was so we could see the house with Steve and his wife Liz before buying it to make sure we could renovate the garage into an office, along with a redesign of the rest of the
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01 The columns and trim on the exterior of the home were coated in a crushed marble mixture, then faux-painted to give them a stonelike appearance.
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02 The clients wanted an elegant yet comfortable, functional master bath with a heavily textured, antiqued faux finish on walls, wrought iron chandelier and candle sconces reminiscent of ancient Europe. 03 The bedroom for the clients' daughter was centered around her favorite animal safari theme, with custom light green and pink leopard print fabric. 04 This cozy dining room features a reclaimed wood table and china hutch, as well as custom metal sconces and a chandelier.
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05 The office is equipped with deep-set bookshelves made of Honduran Mahogany and Black Walnut Burl.
house,” says Eden. “We started reading his books to get inside his skin as a client; just because a client is famous does not mean that they are comfortable in every area of their living environment.”
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Marc and Eden made Berry comfortable with implementing design themes from the era of his best-selling novel The Templar Legacy and the ‘crown jewel’ of converting the three-car garage to an office. The Berry project has provided even more attention to the hardworking husband and wife, who enjoy the frantic pace of their lives in the pursuit of satisfaction for their clients. “(Berry) was a unique client because he had a very definite vision of what he wanted,” says Marc. “Everything we did had to have meaning, from his travels to his books. We create an atmosphere that fits our client’s interests and complete projects with elements that are uplifting to that person.”
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The Boca Raton Residence Completed: 2012 Location: Boca Raton, FL bmgdesignstudio.com
BMG Design Studio Dedication and passion define this successful Florida-based Designer by Rodric J. Hurdle-Bradford A passion for one’s profession is always key to success, no matter what the industry, but for Benita Goldblatt and her BMG Design Studio, the recession has allowed her to unlock a whole new way to use technology to develop clientele in Florida and across the world. Goldblatt’s client’s have already taken her to locations such as Africa and China, and she has capitalized upon the global economy by not letting borders define her business.
This ability to think outside the box is a result of the passion for design that Goldblatt has had since she was young, and her time at the International Academy of Design & Technology in Tampa, FL. has only fueled this passion more. “Doing interior design for an empty room is like a blank canvas,” she says. “I enjoy using technology to access different materials, then use technology to tell my clients about it, whether they are in Tampa or Tanzania.” BMG Design Studio has already experienced success with major design projects for commercial and residential clients, and Goldblatt keeps distinct separate philosophies for serving both segments of her business. “The residential projects must incorporate the personality and needs of the owner at all times, not merely be a nicely designed space with no relevance,” says Goldblatt. “For commercial design
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we are designing for millions of people, so we have to fulfill the client’s needs but still ensure it blends into the environment. I enjoy returning to my completed commercial projects and watching how people gather and react to the color or lighting schemes.”
4,000-square-foot show house in Boca Raton, FL for a television series hosted by Joan Lunden. BMG teamed with other vendors to use glass and soft colors to give the property a contemporary beach feeling in the bathroom and custom stainless steel appliances with the pop of marble in the kitchen.
Regardless if the client is commercial or residential, domestic or international, superior customer service is the foundation for the sensational start BMG Design Studio has experienced.
A chevron pattern design combined with white tile also highlights the kitchen, as the visibility of working on a televised project is another mark of success for this young designer with a bright future.
“I take phone calls at anytime because I always need to be there for my clients,” says Goldblatt. “It has been very rewarding because I get a lot of business through word of mouth, which means I am providing quality service.” More than word of mouth was on display when BMG Design Studio participated in designing a
“It was a great opportunity with exposure that has allowed us to make several important contacts,” says Goldblatt. “Now that we have expanded into the hospitality industry we are open to every opportunity that comes in the door. Our plan is to grow but still provide the high-quality customer service we are already known for.”
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photos: Mike Meyer Photography
“We are constantly working and our energy is beneficial to us because we have clients around the world and we have to be able to serve them,” Goldblatt says. “I started my business in 2010 at one of the worse economic times in recent history, but it forced me to think out of the box and use technology to get projects done anytime and anywhere.
PROJECTS A look into how industry professionals turn lackluster spaces into livable, yet intriguing residences.
The Gragson Home BY Bridgwater consulting group / p. 171 luxuryhomequarterly.com
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The Rancho Mirage Residence Completed: 2010 Location: Rancho Mirage, CA brianfosterdesigns.com
Brian Foster Designs Architectural firm creates ultra modern, one-of-a-kind designs inspired by nature
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by Jessica Kirby Brian Foster’s architectural designs defy typical parameters, earning him international recognition and a client base that includes Hollywood insiders and business superstars. Foster’s creations begin at the design stage and end with a completed structure, with the incorporation of custom furniture that ensures proper proportion to the scale of the home. He started in the industry buying and reselling real estate properties as a teenager. “At some point I wanted to get into buying, customizing and reselling properties, and that translated later into designing and developing,” he says, attributing his inclination towards architecture as genetic, thanks to his family’s history in art. “The homes are quite large and you can’t just walk into any store and buy pieces that fit,” he says. “We create interesting architectural features that are strong and bold, but not overwhelming so the finished interior is cohesive with the overall design.”
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He finds beginning with a floor plan as being an important part of a design but prefers the opportunity to design the home as it relates to the specific site features, views, elevations and how the materials and architecture can work together as art. “Unlike traditional or classical homes, the modern home presents endless possibilities in creativity and design,” he says. “The challenge is staying ahead of an ever-evolving market place and keeping the designs unique and original. Our homes command record prices even in down markets and draw worldwide attention.” Luckily, most of Foster’s clients give some basic parameters but set him loose to work his magic,
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01 The rear of the home features unique elements such as a 65-foot-long saltwater infinity pool with a fire feature and a spa accented with iridescent glass tiles.
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02 The patio, adjacent to the great room, is surrounded by a desert landscape and is separated by 12-foot glass sliding doors, which recess behind a wall resulting in both rooms becoming an open space.
photos: Brian Foster
03 The dining room is surrounded by a water feature, with a radius wall made of raked concrete resting in the middle. The seamless floor is made of a blend of epoxy and metal. 04 The great room features custom-built floating ceilings made of steel and aluminum and a 10-foot-long fire feature accented with perforated metal and wood.
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05 The kitchen features stainless steel countertops and iridescent glass with an overhead floating metal ceiling.
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06 The master bedroom features walls made of concrete, and the lighting fixture over the bed is custom made of mirror, metal and wood.
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making the intricacies of the dream homes come together with unparalleled depth and imagination, resulting in the ultimate masterpiece. Foster took his expertise that he uses for his clients to design his own dream home; a 5,100-square-foot ultra modern property in Rancho Mirage, CA. This private residence was featured on HGTV’s Million Dollar Rooms because of its unique, one-of-a-kind design with exquisite finishes. The vast, sweeping interior is so far beyond open concept that it is hard to decipher where the interior ends and the desert begins. Elaborate geometric shapes and angles make every room a balanced, abstract masterpiece, while extensive stone and metal work maintain a connection with the natural world.
Like his designs for hire, his home reveres the architecture as art, serving both the inhabitants’ functional and aesthetic desires. “I am creating something you can live in, that is artfully done in every perspective,” says Foster.
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“Elaborate geometric shapes and angles make every room a balanced, abstract masterpiece, while extensive stone and metal work maintain a connection with the natural world.”
photos: Brian Foster
The home prominently displays floating steel and aluminum metal ceiling structures that are relative to the space for light and effect. A tranquil water feature surrounding a formal dining area picks up reflections from the outside, mirroring blue skies and sunsets to create an ethereal connection with the outdoors while maintaining the soothing look and feel of flowing water.
Brian Foster, Owner
FALL 2012
projects
The Gragson Residence Completed: 2008 Las Vegas, NV bridgwaterconsulting.com
Bridgwater Consulting Group Utah-based firm combines sustainability with style by Katjusa Cisar Clive Bridgwater hears it all the time from clients after they have moved into the houses he and his wife Julie design: "I've never felt better." Bridgwater did his thesis work in architecture on the psychology of space, and in the thirty years since then, his fascination has not let up.
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"We try to really understand how they want to orchestrate that life. And then I'll develop ideas around those sequences of lifestyle orchestrations," he says. "Eventually, that becomes architecture."
photo: Christopher Mayer
Bridgwater Consulting Group, based out of Park City, UT, draws on the couple's complementary skills. Ten years into his career, Bridgwater was running a 30-designer firm and busy flying around the country negotiating projects. "It was a really great experience for me as a young architect. It made me a better designer," he says. But by the mid-1990’s, he was burnt out on the constant travel and projectjuggling. He and his wife, an interior designer with a background in corporate leadership, decided to collaborate and establish their own design firm. They are closely involved in every project and often become friends with their clients. This slowed-down pace has paid off for the Bridgwater’s. They won the National Association of Home Builders' highest ranking at the 2011 Best in American Living Awards for "One-of-a-Kind Home over 6,501 square feet" with a custom private residence in Park City. Over the years, they have developed a reputation for building homes that adhere to "frontier modernism," melding centuries-old, rugged practicality with a modern aesthetic. Recently they oversaw a diverse team — including interior designer Karen Butera and general contractor Jack Raftery — to construct a 10,000-squarefoot residence overlooking the Las Vegas valley for
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01 Terraced outdoor “platforms” define various areas while maintaining an open flow. 02 Retractable exterior doors open the living room, bar and kitchen areas to the outdoor courts exposing views to the Las Vegas strip. 03 The roof's unique shape was inspired by the mountain's folds and appears to rest against the Red Rock Mountain. Views of Las Vegas can be seen east of the house.
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04 The family room and kitchen area act as a “home within a home” for more intimate family occasions. Views of the Las Vegas Strip can be seen in the distance. 05 Courtyards in front and back are used to cool the air with water features before being drawn into the home.
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Scott and Jill Gragson, who requested a reinvention of the contemporary desert abode. The result is a stunning home with a centrifugal design that radiates out from a central core into the landscape using a complex, curved roof built on a spaceframe from Canadian manufacturer Triodetic. “These big houses can get very mis-scaled and feel like a hotel lobby,” Bridgwater says. To avoid this, he split up the Gragson Home into clusters and used a Fleetwood pocket-door system to fully open the indoors to the outdoors. The home feels equally comfortable for a fundraising party of 300 or an intimate family dinner of six. The design also works with the desert environment instead of against it — and by extension, works with its human inhabitants to help them feel better. “The gap between these buildings creates a space where the natural winds of Las Vegas come through and actually pull the warmer air out, acting as a passive thermal chimney,” he says. “It's a very green house although it doesn't look like one.”
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“The natural winds of Las Vegas come through and actually pull the warmer air out. It's a very green house although it doesn't look like one.�
Timeless Homes, Fine Renovations
Clive Bridgwater, Owner
photos: Christopher Mayer
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directory Professional Services & Organizations Architecture Alterstudio Architects, LLP, alterstudio.Net, 28
Jablonski Associates, jablonskiassociates.com, 173
Hardware
Lcra Architecture & Planning, lcra-architects.com, 7, 61
Jeffrey Cole Builders, 512-276-0448, 48
Rayware Hardware, rayware.com, 145, 147
Barnes Coy Architects, barnescoy.com, 102-105 Berg Design Architecture, bergdesignarchitects.com, 96-97 Blaze Mackoid Architecture, blazemakoid-architecture.com, 78-79, 90-93
Kirby Perkins Construction, kirbyperkins.com, 41 Luster Custom Homes, lustercustomhomes.com, 54-58 Mcloughlin Construction Corporation, mccbuilders.com, 84-85 Michael F. Simon Builders, qualitydefined.com, 76-77
Interior design Alene Workman, aleneworkman.com, 111, 118-123 Amanda Webster Design, amandawebsterdesign.com, 142-144 Baik Designs, baikdesigns.com, 137
Brian Foster Designs, brianfosterdesigns.com, 168-170
Perello Building, perellobuilding.com, 100-101
Bridgwater Consulting Group, bridgwaterconsulting.com, 167, 171-173
Race Point, Inc., racepointinc.com, 59-61
Beasley & Henley Interior Design, beasleyandhenley.com, 158-159
Tyler Development, tylerdev.com, 6, 49-53
BMG Design Studio, bmgdesignstudio.com, 166
Fah Architect, 231-348-8624, 68
Waverly Custom Homes, LLC, waverlycustomhomes.com, 72-75
Brianna Michelle Interior Design, briannamichelledesign.com, 152-154
Whitney Blair Custom Homes, whitneyblair.com, 69-71
Panageries, panageries.com, 178
J Square Architecture, LLC, jsquarearch.com, 46-48 Jack Arnold Companies, jackarnold.com, 43-45 Jaycox Reinel Architects, jaycoxreinel.com, 144-145 John David Rose Architect, johndavidrosearchitect.com, 108-109 MacCracken Architects, macarchs.com, 32-35 Mark P. Finlay Architects AIA, markfinlay.com, 31, 40-42
Dawn Kaiser Design Services, LLC, dksinteriors.com, 150-151
Electrical
Designmind, LLC, designmindllc.com, 4, 139-141
Orion Electric, 215-572-1829, 75
Gribble Interior Group, gribbleinteriors.com, 160-161 Ie: Designs, ie-designs.com, 162-163
Electronics/ technology
Ike Kligerman Barkley, ikba.com, 112- 117
Creston Electronics, creston.com, 11, 57
Im Interior Decoration, LLC, info.Imi@im-kw.com, 123
Electronic Environments, 212-997-1110, 110
Mason Davis Interiors, masondavisinteriors.com, 48
Mercedes De La Garza, AIA, delagarzastudio.com, 36-39
JD Audio & Video Design Inc., jdav.com, 106-107
M. & E. Cross Inc. Interior Design, mecrossinteriordesign.com, 164-165
Michael Haverland Architect, michaelhaverland.com, 88-89
Sierra Integrated Systems, sierraintegratedsystems.com, 39
Northsouth Studios, LLC, northsouthstudios.net, 156-157
Paul Russo Architect, russoarchitect.com, 98-99
Sound Installation & Design, 904-732-7486, 143
Martin Architects, martinarchitects.com, 94-95 Mcbride Charles Ryan, mcbridecharlesryan.com.au, 29
Philpotts Interiors, philpotts.net, 132-137,180 Objekt Designs, objektdesigns.com, 61
Stelle architects, stelleco.com, cover, 4, 80-82 Engineering
Schulte Design, schultedesign.com, 148-149
Books
Condon Engineering, P.C., condonengineering.com, 93
Dazzling Design: Amanda Nisbet, abramsbooks.com, 25
Tk Consulting Engineers, tkaustin.com, 48
Studio M Interior Design, Inc., Studiominteriordesign.net, 146-147
Wainscott Industrial Solutions, Inc., 631-537-0770, 26
The Natural Home: Hans Blomquist, rylandpeters.com, 25 Traditional Now Interiors by David Kleinberg, randomhouse.com, 25
Carpets & rugs
Flooring Hourhub Private Limited, crisfina@hourhub.com, 130-131 Renaissance Hardwood Floors, renhardwood.com, 2, 45
Ice International, www.rugs.nl, 179
Horm, horm.it, 15, 20
Construction & design
Joseph Walsh Design, josephwalshstudio.com, 22-23 Lacividina, lacividina.com, 19 Laura Britt/ Vervano. Vervano.com, 24
Ellen Grasso Inc., ellengrassoinc.com, 62-65
Lee Broom, leebroom.com, 18
Fingerlake Contracting, Inc., 516-639-0878, 99
Paco Camus, pacocumus.com, 20
Fountainhead Construction Inc., fhcinc.com, 86-87
Warisan, warisan.com, 130-131
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East End Country Kitchens, eastendcountrykitchens.com, 83, 85 Ferguson Enterprises, ferguson.com, 155 Futuro Futuro, futurofuturo.com,17
Diego Vencato, diego-vencato.com, 20
California Closets, californiaclosets.com, 77
Adelaine Construction Inc., adelaineconstruction.com, 66-68
Kitchen & bath Bertazzoni, bertazzoni.com, 16
Frecan, grupfrecan.com, 16,17 Furniture
Closets
Wilson Associates, wilsonassociates.com, 8, 124-12
Landscape architects Bruce Jett Associates, Inc., Landsarch.com, 35 Laguardia Design, laguardiadesign.com, 83 Millwork/ molding Carsons Cabinetry & Design, carsonscabinetry.com, 155
FALL 2012
E.T. Raffel Cabinets, etraffel.com, 13, 109
Stephen Allen Photography, sallenphoto.com, 158-159
Renaissance Molding & Design, rdstudiola.com, 12
Taylor Architectural Photography, taylorarchitecturalphotography.com, 160-161
Miscellaneous Elite, elitehts.com, 106-107
Photography Aaron Bailey, awbailey.com, 156-157
Trevor Feight, 73-75 Urban Photo Co., urbanphotoco.com, 76-77 Whit Preston Photography, 28
Plumbing & Fixtures
Andrew Bradley, andrewbradley.com, 22-23
All Powerful Plumbing & Heating, all-powerfulplumbing.com, 21
Berg Design Architecture, bergdesignarchitects.com, 96-97
H2O Supply, h2osupply.net, 65
Brian Foster, brianfosterdesigns.com, 168-170 Brittany Imperiale, 108-109 Caroline Watkins, carolinewatkinsphotography.com, 111, 118-123 Christopher Mayer, christophermayerphotography.com, 167,171-173
Pools & Spas Pelican Pools, pelicanpoolsinc., 175
Roofing Graziano Roofing, grazianoroofing.com, 27
Cucciaioni Photography, e3cphoto.com, 152-154 Danny Piassick, piassick.com, 63-65
Stone, Tile & Concrete
Doug Eng, dougengphoto.com, 146-147
Keysgranite, keygranite.com, 138
Durston Saylor, durstonsaylor.com, 112- 117
Robert Kessler Inc., 631-924-2241, 103
Edge Media Prod, 102-104 Ed Hall, edhallphoto.com, 162-163
Window & Doors
Erhard Pfeiffer, erhardpfeiffer.com, cover, 49-53
Pella Windows, pro.pella.com, 71
G. Frank Hart, gfrankhartphoto.com, 69-71
Tischler Und Sohn Ltd., tischlerwindows.com, 9
Gonzo Photo Studio, gonzophotostudio.com, 100-101
Windoor Incoporated, windoorinc.com, 174
Jeff Dow Photography, jeffdow.com, 36-39
Zeluck, zeluck.com, 3
John Gollings, gollings.com.au,29 John Musnicki, Graphic Image Group, graphicimagegroup.com, 84-85 Harvey Smith Photography, harveysmithphoto.com, 150-151 Hawks Photography, hawksphotography.com, 43-45 Kerry Sharkey Miller, 86-87 Laurie Lambrecht, laurielambrecht.com, 88-89 Marc Bryan Brown, bryan-brown.com, 78-79, 90-93 Michael Arden, arden100.com, 58-61 Mike Meyer Photography, mikemeyerphotography.com, 166 Neil Rashba, rashba.com, 142-144 Paul Bardagjy Photography, bardagjyphoto.com, 46-48 Piston Design Photography, pistondesign.com, 28
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At Home With
At Home With: Cynthia Masters The designer and owner of Panageries specializes in creating unique-yet-timeless looks
LHQ: How did you come up with the name – the word – for your company, Panageries? CM: Panageries is a word I created when I opened my firm in 1993, because it completely encompasses my design aesthetic. It combines “panache” and “menagerie.” Panache is style with sophistication, and menagerie is a collection of unusual animals. No matter the project or interior, I always marry design styles and time periods to create a cohesive collection. So it means a collection of styles and design elements done with flair and sophistication.
view more of Cynthia's work at
panageries.com
LHQ: What is your process for creating a design? CM: I think it’s really important to respect the architecture and location of a project. So that’s where I always begin. Then I let the client’s personal preferences, their collections, lifestyle, heritage, etc. inform the design. I choose the balance of my selections based on what pulls the interior into a cohesive whole. LHQ: What type of project do you find the most enjoyable to work on? CM: The one where the client gets it. We’ve just begun a great new project for a sophisticated, welltraveled couple. The exterior architecture has a great European flavor, but the interior architecture is lackluster. They want a Parisian-salon look, so we’re completely reworking the interior appointments to achieve that. But, the husband travels to Africa often to hunt and wants to incorporate his “heads” into the design as well. So again, there’s that melding of styles. LHQ: How do you express yourself through the design and decor of your home? CM: My home is a 100-year-old brick tudor. I’ve stayed true to that style in the interior architectural elements like moldings and cabinetry. I’ve used 19th-century French and English antiques blended with new and mid-century pieces. Most of my artwork is contemporary, and there are a few Asian items as well. I love my bronze Buddha! The palette
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is a tonal mix of muddied colors, layered with loads of texture and reflective elements like metallics, glass and antique mirror. I want a look to last, and not walk into a room and know when it was created. By blending styles and time periods, I can create a look for my own home or a client’s home that is elegant, timeless and individual. LHQ: What do you hope that your home ‘says’ about you? CM: That I have an open mind. I have a globally inspired view of design. For me, inspiration can come from anything, whether it’s a Dogon door from Mali or an original Picasso.
LHQ: As a native of South Carolina, how has that shaped your style or how you interact with clients? CM: My mother was very Southern and a stickler for proper etiquette and Southern hospitality. When I begin working with a new client, I often invite them over for coffee or cocktails and a tour of my home. I think it’s important to slow down and get to know a client on a personal level before I make a single selection. I spend a lot of time understanding them and listening to their requests. Ultimately, many of my clients end up becoming my friends.
Interview by Amy Howell Hirt
fall 2012