Standard Magazine Issue 15: Winter Escape 2013

STANDARD an honest-to-goodness design affair

winter

escape

jan-feb 2013 1

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W H I T E P R E M I U M

H A T

T E X A S

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SPENCER SELVIDGE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Portrait | Commercial | Editorial

spencerselvidge.com 5

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day trips The Letter 12 Newsreel Trend-Predictor 17 botanical schemes and art nouveau

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Thinking Outside the Xbox 22 bathing just got manly again

A Design Affair 42 creating a better world one accessory at a time

On The Boards 130 say adieu to drab winter palettes and say bonjour to tropical hues

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Winter Escape, 2013 130

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full excursions Escape Artists 24 swinging under the bridge with our friends from HomeAway

It’s Waiting There For You 48 an invitation to a romantic, African adventure... hurry boy

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116 The Things We Bring Back 92 inside the cultural retreat of Hitesh Mehta and Liz Joseph

Je t’aime a la folie 106 a cutting-edge playhouse in the California hills

Standard Visits: Raven + Lily 116 we go behind-the-scenes with R + L in Morocco

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E

the letter

very year we dedicate the after-holiday season to thinking about getting away. It’s become quite the little tradition around the Standard offices and we truly indulge in the fantasy of things like African safaris­­ —even if a more likely escape is just a few minutes on an urban swing. In this issue, we present both extremes... and, of course, plenty more. Warning: our super-sized feature (at 43 pages, our largest ever!) about the four camps of UnCharted Africa in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans may very well put an old Toto song in your head. We apologize in advance.

Mallory Hamel’s piece “The Things We Bring Back” about the home of Hitesh Mehta and Liz Joseph (true citizens of the world if ever I have met them) examines the tradition of bringing relics from our travels back to become a part of our daily lives. It is something most of us do, perhaps in hopes of recapturing that carefree feeling that one can only achieve when not faced with the realities of our day-to-day­... or perhaps just as a small reminder that we can, in fact, achieve that carefree feeling at all.

us up into the treetops for a look at one of the most sophisticated play spaces I’ve ever seen, “Pardon me, would you have any Grey Poupon, kiddies?”

Now I must have a proud mama moment. Not so many years ago I had a lovely young design intern named Stephanie Petro who worked with me while she was finishing up her degree.

Last year, she (as part of an amazing In her first full-length feature story for team) launched hearts.com, an online Standard, our intern Alex Lopez takes

ibly important­—harnessing the power of consumerism to raise the bar on the way that goods are produced and laborers are compensated. These two companies may differ in their styles and marketing but they certainly share a drive and desire to make the world a better place. They are precisely the kinds of companies I dreamed we’d be writing about when I founded Standard.

Kelly LaPlante Editorial Director & Founder

retailer of ethical jewelry and accessories. I could not be more proud to feature Steph, and the rest of the Hearts team­, in this installment of “A Design Affair.”

Proving that there can never be too much of a good thing, we’re also featuring our friends at Raven + Lily­ (and their travels to Morocco and Ethiopia­!). Both Hearts and R+L are doing something that I think is incred-

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STANDARD Editorial Director & Founder: Kelly LaPlante kelly@standardmag.com Features Editor & Senior Staff Writer: Mallory Hamel mallory@standardmag.com Markets Editor: Minh Dang minh@standardmag.com Corresponding Editor: Jenny Gumbert jenny@standardmag.com Staff Photographer: Spencer Selvidge Contributing Photographers: David Crookes, Adriaan Louw, Elana Castle, Ray du Toit, Sean Klingelhoefer Editorial Interns: Alex Lopez, Madeleine McCaleb, John McEntire

Publisher: Kelly Truesdell truesdell@standardmag.com Publishing Assistant: Sophia Mossberg Social Media Intern: Preston Lee Hall Publishing Intern: Leeza Henderson

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NEWSREEL

Trend-Predictor

winter 2013 Whether you’re missing the fresh scents of flowers or you’re experiencing an art movement, we’ve got you covered. Here we present two noteworthy events that are sure to aid in your search for new treasures.

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newsreel trend-predictor alex lopez

(

flower power

)

While many are still enduring the winter months under heavy blankets and warm coats, gifts from the fair season are already springing up in Egypt at Cairo’s Annual Flower Festival. Considered one of Egypt’s oldest celebrations, the Flower Festival is a colorful exhibit that displays hundreds of flowers each year. It begins at the end of January, and continues through the end of spring.

Kate Lewis from UncommonGoods

Bokja Design

) ) we predict...

…floral shapes and patterns will be arriving a little early this year, so why not turn your home into a flower festival as well? Try abstract floral prints— as seen in designs by Bokja—for a unique look, or keep things traditional with full flowers, as seen on the Modern Woolen Ottoman Floor Pouf

by Kathy Kuo Home.

Kathy Kuo Designs on Amazon

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Jennifer Blume

(

renew nouveau

)

In efforts to preserve the RĂŠseau Art Nouveau Network and the study of Art Nouveau in Europe, a one day symposium will be held in Aveiro, Portugal, January 26. The conference will honor artists whose works defined the Nouveau era, and discuss plans for the future of the Art Nouveau & Ecology project.

(( we predict...

...that history will be repeating itself with the trends of the early 20th century Nouveau style.

We suggest mixing in a modern touch with designs by Jennifer Blume, or try pieces that mimic the look made famous by artists such as Gustav Klimt and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Whichever way you choose to incorporate this trend, we think your home will be looking new in Nouveau.

Maison de Talaru

Doris Leslie Blau

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thinking outside the Xbox

JOHN MCENTIRE

image courtesy of card cow

If I had to make a list of the most masculine activities I could think of, it would probably begin with jumping out of helicopters and living with bears. If someone else had to list my most masculine activities today, they probably wouldn’t get much further than eating without a plate and not using my turn signal.

Either way, bathing isn’t typically high on either list.

homeland, became one of the first resort towns in America because of its bathhouses—that, and its gambling.

Al Capone and his cronies were regular visitors, as were many major league baseball teams.

Bring back the 20s by not slinking into the shower like a wet dog. Enjoy your cleansing ritual a bit more with some of these bathing necessities.

You wouldn’t argue with Scarface, Al It used to be though. Whole towns or the Bambino about their manliness, popped up around the idea. Hot would you?

Springs, Arkansas, a town near my

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1. Whiskey After-Shave Splash by Portland General Store Don’t like how your medicine cabinet looks like the cosmetics aisle? This aftershave won’t leave you embarrassed should anyone snoop in your stash.

2. The Exfoliator Scrub Soap by Rocky Top Soap Shop Most guys tend to avoid words that begin with “ex” but sometimes you’ve got to man up and face them head-on. No, exfoliation does not hurt, has nothing to do with trees, and won’t take off your beard. It’ll make you look good, that’s all you need to know.

3. Into The Woods Bath Salt for Men by Whispering Willow Soap It’s not a bathhouse without a good old-fashioned soak. Relax your muscles after those six hours we all know you put in at the gym today, and smell like you just took a dip in the local forest grove.

4. Herban Lifestyle Men’s Shaving Set from UncommonGoods Complete with a vegan bristle brush and a handmade shaving soap, this kit just about makes me want to shave, unfortunately though, this beard is committed.

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escape

artists

our friends at the red swing project and homeaway show us the ropes story by mallory hamel photographed by spencer selvidge

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iven the opportunity to relish in one’s “perfect escape”— most of us would take it. But what if you could, just for a moment or two, get away from the minutiae of it all simply by sitting down and kicking your feet into the air—whether you’re smack dab in the middle of a busy city, rolling off of a lonely exit on a long stretch of highway, or hiking through the woods? If you happen to be in the vicinity of a Red Swing, you can.

ect is deeper than just wanting to give people a reason to glide through the air gleefully in unexpected places, Andrew elaborates,

“We wanted to positively impact under-utilized public spaces with simple red swings. We wanted to create an unexpected special moment for someone. Imagine you are walking to work the same way you always do and you discover a red swing that magically appears. Without knowing when it arrived, why it was hung, or who hung the swing, there is an eleThe Red Swing Project began as a ment of mystery. We want that curinovel idea but has spread globally osity to inspire a personal story and thanks to a handful of people who be- narrative for each individual user.” lieve in fun for fun’s sake. Prompted by a design assignment at the Uni- With this sentiment in mind, we invitversity of Texas School of Architec- ed some of our friends from the vacature, a student named Andrew (who tion rental site HomeAway to take a prefers to remain somewhat anony- break out of their busy lives, meet us mous) along with a few others, be- for some swinging, and tell us about gan making swings out of red-painted their perfect escapes. wood (often of the scrap variety), and hanging them from donated climbing rope. The first red swing was originally hung in East Austin in 2007. The proj- redswingproject.org ect has had such a warm reception homeaway.com that it is now responsible for over 200 uncommongoods.com swings hanging around the world. aplusrstore.com However, the energy behind the proj- venturesnowboards.com

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go there....

Take a note from Ajay and go exploring! He suggests visiting this property in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.

stay here...

Can’t make it to Spain? Get a load of some hometown comradery with this worldly soccer ball by IDEA International Design from A + R, and track your past and future travels with this Scratch Map from UncommonGoods.

“My perfect escape usually involves going to a new city or town, meeting the locals and exploring the area. I’m a sucker for novelty and nighttime shenanigans, so ending up arm-wrestling at a hole-in-the-wall while partaking in a local spirit, or belting out a drinking song I don’t know over a beer I’ve never heard of is my favorite place to end up. It sounds like chaos, but I always feel more alive and invigorated afterwards. The people of the world and the crazy stuff they love are endlessly fascinating to me.”

-Ajay Waghray, Mobile Product Manager 29

“My ‘perfect escape’ is in a winter wonderland: small town with cool, cozy pubs. Staying in a high-end condo with easy access to the slopes, so that I could snowboard at any given time.”

-Cori Cates, Marketing/Advertising Specialist

go there....

Snow bums take a cue from Cori and head out west, where you can stay at this fabulous Telluride, Colorado property.

take these...

Owning is better than renting—be sure to pack your equipment from Venture Snowboards for hitting the slopes, and something fun to do in your evening (muscle-soaking) downtime, such as these U.S.A. Project Playing Cards from UncommonGoods.

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go there....

Victor suggests having your own perfect escape at this gorgeous hillside property in Granada, Spain.

stay here...

Pretend you’re far away by arranging a quiet picnic with your sweetie. Take along this Black + Blum Lunch Pot and bright orange Alexander Purcell Sake Bomb, both from A + R.

“Setting, Paris, France: There are small carts along the street with vendors preparing for the day. The sun still rising, I’m walking down a street, with some groceries for breakfast in a brown paper bag that I carry in my arm.

In my other hand, I carry fresh flowers as a surprise for my girlfriend.”

-Victor Wang, Public Relations Manager 33

“My perfect escape is a city by the sea, where the beach is nice, there are good restaurants, good wines, night life, and friendly people—where I can relax on the beach during the day and have lots of fun in the evenings.”

-Shanaz Hemmati, VP of Information Services

go there....

Shanaz suggests visiting a beautiful city by the sea while staying at this luxurious beachfront property in Fuengirola Bay, Mรกlaga, Spain.

take these...

When you travel abroad, be sure to take a Palomar Crumpled City Map from A + R, and a Diana Camera from UncommonGoods to find and capture those exciting (or relaxing) moments.

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go there....

Bevin suggests a trip to the Mediterranean countryside where you can visit the beach or head out rock climbing, all while staying at this beautiful inn in Kavala, Greece.

take these...

Be sure to pack your goods in this stylish travel tote by Tegu, and stay hydrated with this self-filtering Black + Blum Eau Good Active Charcoal Water Bottle, both from A + R.

“My perfect escape would be somewhere warm and scenic with great food. If I had to choose a location, I would choose Turkey or Greece (or both!). I would love to visit this part of the world, because after soaking up the beautiful vistas and getting my fill of delicious food and wine, I could rock climb in the amazing mountains there to burn the calories back off.�

-Bevin Morgan, Marketing Specialist 37

“My perfect escape would be outside in a garden filled with flowers, a canvas, and paint—and a glass of red wine couldn’t hurt.”

-Sophie Foreman, Marketing Specialist

go there....

Sophie suggests taking a break in the English countryside by visiting this gorgeous property in Reading—just outside of London.

stay here...

Spend time amongst the leaves anywhere with this PostCarden from UncommonGoods, or nourish the greenery around you with this Pascal Charmolu & Born in Sweden Dual-Action Watering Can from A + R.

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From the kitchen to the living room, sustainable designs crafted a few miles away from your home.

Los Angeles | Pasadena | San Francisco | ABC Carpet & Home More info at www.ciscohome.net

41 Handcrafted in Los Angeles since 1990

a design affair

Above: The Hearts staff.

More than just an online retailer, Hearts is setting the bar high in the world of fashion. Hearts is an ethical brand that offers consumers beautifully designed accessories that are fashion-forward while socially conscious. Dedicated to changing the way products are made and distributed, and setting an example for other fashion companies to do the same—the winner of the 2012 SOURCE Award for Innovation in Jewelry, Hearts is striving to continually expand consumer consciousness.

favorite hearts piece?

“It would be the first piece we ever designed and created with our artisan group in Africa, the Window of Hope Necklace. Discarded glass is melted down then shaped into beads by a community of women, giving each bead its own unique form.”

- Stephanie Petro, Creative Director

how did the name hearts come about? stephanie petro, creative director: The

name Hearts symbolizes the soul of the human spirit—representing people and the planet. Hearts also represents the collective togetherness of people when addressing and working towards a solution. Representing the “you,” ‘we,” and “us” that can and will make a difference in the world. what inspired the idea behind the brand? hart cunningham, owner: I grew up in an artistic

family. My parents met in art school and we were always taught the importance of artistic culture and self-expression. When I met Stephanie, I was inspired by the unique way she approached fashion and the passion she had for her art. As I realized that every culture celebrates fashion in its own way, I saw the potential in working with thousands of artists across the globe. Taking the idea of Hearts to a global level allowed us to create a worldwide impact and help causes that we deeply believe in.

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favorite hearts piece?

“I love the coffee bag handbags. These bags touch base on so many of our values. They leave such a small environmental footprint and the heritage of each bag is inspiring.”

- Hart Cunningham, Owner

how does your team find new products? stephanie: We reach out to new ar-

tisans every day, and begin hearing their stories and listening to their communities.

Every Hearts piece has a story. The artisans we work with are people who also have the spirit of change and the passion of design. As an ethical brand, we will only work with artisans who comply with our high standards in sourcing and production. One of our many goals is to be able to support and help artisans and their communities through ethical practices and artistic expression. Keeping art as close to the hands of the artisans as possible is something the design team is persistent in doing. what is hearts’ design philosophy and the “people and planet first” ideology?

stephanie: Our design process focuses on how we can improve rather

than deplete. With everything we produce we improve the condition of our planet and people’s lives; making a difference inspires us. We are able to make a positive impact by selecting materials that do not leave a heavy footprint on our earth, by working with artisan groups around the world, and helping

them by improving their lives through education, freedom, justice, equality, and cultural awareness. We follow standards that keep us in line and we are always looking for ways to improve the process to continue our growth. how does hearts hope to change the fashion industry? stephanie: We take pride in our decisions for a better world, and we inspire

everyone that crosses our path to do the same. We hope to change the typical methods and ways of our current supply chain, and plant seeds of change so everyone is aware of how they can contribute to a better world. and you’ve just introduced a men’s collection! hart: Yes, there are very few choices for men to shop for sustainable fashion

so we’ll be offering watches, cufflinks, jewelry, etc. Many of our electronics accessories are designed with men’s styles in mind. hearts.com

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winter escape

2013

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it’s waiting there for you story by mallory hamel photographed by david crookes, adriaan louw, elana castle, ray du toit

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M

iles away from anything you’ve ever known—deep in the wilds of Botswana—is a thriving resort many will only ever dream of visiting. Spread primarily across the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans of the Kalahari Desert, Uncharted Africa Safari Co. consists of four different camps where grown-ups and kids alike can experience Africa in a culturally significant yet luxuriously enchanting way.

Uncharted Africa Safari Co. was originally founded in 1993 to preserve the family legacy of Jack Bousfield (who, according to some was “a free spirit, great explorer and hunter in Kenya and Tanzania”), who settled himself in the salt pans in 1963. Jack’s son Ralph Bousfield and his partner Catherine Raphaely have transformed the elder’s visions into a modern Africa experience. Now, the three camps that are situated in the salt pans are accessible by flight from Maun into a private Tsigaro airstrip. Once there, a twenty minute drive connects San Camp, Camp Kalahari and Jack’s Camp. The fourth, and more vibrant of the camps—Planet Baobab—lies in the tiny outpost of Gweta, about an hour and a half away from the others.

By all accounts, the entire setup is the very definition of remote.

own environment—Jack’s Camp is in the bush, San Camp lies on the edge of the salt pans, and Camp Kalahari is nestled amongst woodlands—guests can experience truly diverse exposure to this part of Botswana. But it’s not just the scenery and plentiful wildlife that make Uncharted so alluring. It’s also the connection to the culture. In the words of Uncharted’s Marketing Manager Simona Quaglia, “Uncharted benefits from an incredible relationship with the Bushmen people, and guests can interact with them to learn more about their fascinating culture—the oldest surviving culture on earth. The Ju/’Hoansi from the far western Kalahari in Botswana, are among the last of the Bushmen still choosing to live semi-traditional lives. Through Uncharted’s work with them, groups of the Ju/’Hoansi take guests on bush walks to show them how they have survived and thrived in this harsh environment. The women show guests how they gather bounty from the land, while the men demonstrate how they start fires and hunt, as well as their incredible tracking skills.”

This connection to the locals isn’t just about the guest’s experience. Quaglia furthers that patrons are welcomed and encouraged to visit the local village and get a glimpse into the daily routines in this corner of the world.

With each of the camps being in its Uncharted encompasses all facets

of the African experience, and they pride themselves on their unique safari packages. Quaglia elaborates, “The Uncharted Africa Safari Co. experience is classified as a holistic approach to safari. The safaris are unique in that they are aimed more at a true understanding of the ecosystem and how all the elements work together in harmony. Sadly, a lot of safari has been reduced to a check list of animals—but that is not at all the case here. Guides really show guests how everything works and fits in with one another, from the termites to the birds to the lions. Safaris are also about seeking out the rare and lesser-known desert-adapted species.”

The land itself also supplies much adventure to guests, especially in the salt pans, with Quaglia stating that, “Makgadikgadi is an ancient superlake that dried up thousands of years ago, the shores of which are believed to be home to human evolution, and so the area is literally full of artifacts and fossils. Guests routinely find stone tools dating back thousands of years.”

Talk about souvenirs!

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san

camp O

ften termed, “the most romantic camp in Africa,” San Camp lives up to its name with intoxicating comforts abounding. Originally opened to guests in 1996, San Camp was erected as an alternative to Jack’s Camp, and a wonderful way to experience the dry season of the salt pans. At the helm of this design were the two responsible for Uncharted Africa as it is today—Ralph Bousfield and Catherine Raphaely. Made up of six white canvas tents (brought in from India), the camp is meant to exude a familiarty of the olden days of safari pioneering, graced with luxury. Four-poster beds, private verandahs, and en suite baths (made possible only after a three year search for running water) are just some of the amenities San Camp boasts.

“The camp’s colors are directly inspired by its surroundings; the white of the pans, blue of the sky, and green of the grass.” This photo: the Tea Tent.

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The tea tent is decorated with traditional, low-sitting furniture (in Botswana, it is customary to sit on the ground or on stools) and enticing patterns. A truly inviting space, Quaglia relates, “The tea tent is home to layered Persian carpets and dozens of pillows and cushions, making it the perfect place to curl up with a book, watch the remarkable sunset or—as its name states—enjoy a proper afternoon tea, complete with fine tea and delicious snacks, always one sweet and one savory.”

The central mess area is chock-full of items bearing historical significance to the camp, the family who runs it, and Botswana in general, with artifacts of all kinds in every nook and cranny. Quaglia furthers, “Ralph Bousfield is a huge collector of antiques and memorabilia, a passion that he inherited from his family and its rich history. Many of the objects in the camp come from his family collection, but Uncharted also has a workshop at the company headquarters in Francistown, where craftsmen produce and repair some of the furniture. The textiles and other objects come from different parts of Africa and India, and have been collected through the years and in Ralph’s and Catherine’s extensive travels.”

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Designed primarily by Raphaely, the camp is full of gorgeous and interesting heirlooms and artifacts, giving a glimpse into the history of the area and the family who has settled it.

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An enchanting evening in the pans is made even more spectacular by this fireside seating arrangement.

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planet

baobab T he funkiest of the four camps, Planet Baobab stands out as a colorful landmark in the midst of the desert. Quaglia notes, “The style of the painted mud huts is completely derived from the free and exuberant creativity of the Kalanga architecture... and is characterized by a funky afro-chic design, laid-back attitude, and welcoming space.

The property takes its design cues from a typical African village, but with the volume turned way up. Bright colors, animal prints, retro posters, and eclectic styling surround guests in this offbeat place.�

The huts are made of mud and thatchedgrass roofs, and the exciting designs covering the exteriors were painted by women from the local village. In the central bar area, two chandeliers made of beer bottles from all over the world serve as luminaries as well as the manifestation of travelers of every sort.

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It is Planet Baobab where guests around a traditional Botswana home can get the most out of the local ex- of the Motswana (Tswana) people. perience however. Quaglia relates, There, guests get a glimpse of rural Botswana life and join their hosts “At Planet Baobab, guests can visit for a traditional Kalanga meal of sorthe local primary school—Sekolo— ghum, mealie meal, “seswaa” (beef with its traditional court that governs stew), wild spinach, Mopane worms the village and people of Gweta, and (optional) and wild beans, followed even try out some sorghum beer. by a lip-smacking Baobab fruit milkThey can also set off to visit a local shake.” cattle post, where they are shown

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This camp was named for the 17 enormous Baobab trees surrounding the premises.

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camp kalahari

M

odeled after more-traditional bush camps—specifically, Jack’s original camp of the 70s—Camp Kalahari sits as an oasis amongst the ruggedness of the desert. Surrounded by Acacias and various palms, this camp is complete with 10 thatched-roof, open-air structures that include living and dining areas as well as a library. The best part, however, is the beautiful and refreshing pool, perfect for a postsafari dip.

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Camp Kalahari became a member of Uncharted’s portfolio in 2008. The camp was entirely remodeled to provide an inviting, family friendly atmosphere against the backdrop of rough-and-tumble Botswana. Quaglia furthers, “The idea was to have a place where families and children would feel perfectly at home in a wild environment. The inspiration was again the ecosystem surrounding the camp—the woodlands of Acacias, Mopane trees and palms. The goal was a camp with a stylish look but with a more relaxed atmosphere.

The romantic post-colonial style of Jack’s Camp and San Camp is beautiful, but it could be a bit intimidating for children with all the cabinets and fragile objects, so Camp Kalahari is made more accessible for families and exudes a bit more of an informal feel.”

And an informal feel it has. However, this should in no way suggest that Camp Kalahari is anything but spectacularly different and more than accomodating.

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During Botswana’s wet season, the final south African migration of Zebras can be seen as the herds make way across the vast expanse.

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jack’s

camp P

erhaps the most significant of the camps in its safari style, would be Jack’s camp—named for its former resident.

Quaglia shares a bit of the history, stating, “Jack Bousfield arrived in Makgadikgadi in the early 1960s, and settled in the place where Jack’s Camp stands today. After his death in 1993, Catherine and Ralph built their first camp in memory of the legendary life of Jack, and conducted the operations the way Jack would have done it—a safari would be an adventure and a continuous surprise with him, and that’s the way Uncharted still operates today.”

As with the other camps, the interior design was created and arranged by the younger Bousfield and Raphaely, pulling from family relics and curios spanning over five generations of safari heritage. Framed photographs of relatives, friends, and past and present guides hang together on the walls, presenting a pictoral archive of Uncharted’s history.

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“Jack’s Camp is an unexpected jewel of colonial style, personalized service and ornate—if not quirky—design, along with a wealth of history and culture.”

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Aside from the marvelous accomodations in which guests can enjoy a worldly experience, Uncharted offers a wealth of exciting opportunities to experience the land and its flora and fuana. Exhilirating safaris of many kinds take guests into the lives of roaming beasts, big and small, as well as the patrons of local culture. Whether it be travel by excursion vehicle, bicycle or horseback, guests can survey the area with skilled guides for an eye-opening African treat. Between the four camps that Uncharted has to offer and their extensive list of safari activities that guests can participate in, an unforgettable adventure is absolutely guaranteed when visiting this oasis. Q unchartedafrica.com

A Springbuck skull keeps watch over the beautiful and desolate Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.

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The luxurious pool tent, designed by Raphaely, is perfect for an invigorating dip or lounging under brightly patterend fabrics.

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One of Mehta’s handmade site models of a house that HM Design completed on the island of Dominica.

the things we bring back story by mallory hamel photographed by kelly laplante

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Architect and landscape designer by trade, Hitesh Mehta (of HM Design) is world renowned for his contributions to global design and hospitality (exclusively that of the sustainable mold).

His fiancee Liz Joseph is a nurse practitioner who shares with her partner, a highly skilled eye when it comes to interiors, as well as a worldly background. Their Florida home is a perfect reflection of both their abilities to transform a space completely as well Originally built in 1982, the townhouse as fill it with the essence of their collecis part of a six-building complex lo- tive journey through life. cated only moments from the sunny streets of downtown Fort Lauderdale. The research and design process took The 1,150 square foot space has been a total of nine months—four of those through a major redesign however, for researching products, materials, since becoming “Eco-Camelot”—the and methods, and five for the refurname that Mehta and Joseph have bishment. The pair spared nothing in lovingly given their home due to the their pursuit for the healthiest strucromantic and positive connotation ture possible, using only sustainable associated with the castle of legend- materials. Most of the interior goodary King Arthur, as well as the word ies found throughout Eco-Camelot are Camelot’s association with the Ken- representative of the couple’s global nedy era of American politics and its heritage (which includes time spent in India, Kenya, and the United States), promise of a better future. and have been acquired during their travels to over 95 countries. rom the outside, the townhouse of Hitesh Mehta and fiancee Liz Joseph looks much like any other on their tree-lined block in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Aside from its heritage as one of the oldest neighborhoods in the state where new urbanism took root (in the 1950s), Victoria Park is also unique in its pedestrianfriendly nature and openness.

Opposite: Mehta comments on the unique elephant sculpture at the top of a staircase winding up to the bedroom loft, “When something special was called for at the head of the spiral staircase, we went for the bronze elephant which carries three pillars without complaint, adorned with layered blankets of glittering mirror mosaic to reflect the light and excitement of the staircase.”

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and good friend of Mehta’s. Counts based this beautiful work on his visit to the Philae Temple in Aswan, while traveling with Mehta through southern Egypt. This work ties together the African themes within the living space as ”Craftspeople in Jaipur, India, hand- well as brings a touch of sentiment to carved the delicate rosettes on the an already comfy room. low-lying, solid mango wood table, which takes its original inspiration from Throughout the home, interesting a ceremonial stool used by Bamileke heirlooms and other objet d’art can royalty in the African country of Cam- be found in every room. The pair reeroon.” lates that one of the major elements of importance when redsigning EcoAtop this piece, are several handwo- Camelot was the desire to create ven Rwandese Peace Baskets, made a modern yet comfortable space, of papyrus and banana fiber leaf. Meh- doused in earth tones, which reflected the couple’s colorful heritage and ta furthers, lifestyle. Masks of many shapes and “The design on these pagoda-shaped, sizes, from numerous places, cover nested baskets tells an ancient story of certain walls. One such mask is an friends walking together, visiting neigh- authentic Fang Tribe (known for their bors along the way. These baskets reliquary art works) mask from Gabon, now stand as a symbol of peace and Africa. Mehta explains, reconciliation. Baskets have served many functions in Rwanda’s history— “Masks, such as those worn by itinerholding food, celebrating weddings, ant troubadours, and for hunting and and carrying secrets from one woman punishing sorcerers, are painted white to another.” with facial features outlined in black.

Typical are large, elongated masks Above the Chai Table is a one-of- covered with kaolin and featuring a a-kind charcoal painting by Chris face that is usually heart-shaped with Counts, a fellow landscape architect a long, fine nose.”

In the open yet cozy living space, many items of interest are scattered about in a minimalist manner. One piece, the Chai Table, serves as a base for several handwoven baskets.

A Chai Table from West Elm serves as a beautiful central element, and is covered in African patterns. Mehta notes that the table is as much sculpture as it is a functional piece of furniture. On the wall is an original Chris Counts charcoal painting of a temple in Aswan, Egypt.

Mehta notes that these baskets utilize a technique which has been in use for almost one thousand years.

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Recycled glass tiles by Fireclay compliment the bright green kitchen

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An authentic Fang Tribe mask from Gabon, Africa, commands attention.

An original charcoal painting by Chris Counts depicts scenes from his visit to the Temple of Philae in Aswan, Egypt.

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The Lotus headboard from Viva Terra is a work of art in itself.

Winding up the beautiful spiral staircase to the master bedroom (Mehta’s favorite place in the home), one finds themselves in an asian-themed loft. The aura of the room is intoxicating and initiates the desire to curl up and dream of adventure. Possibly the apex of design in this area, the stunning, handcarved Lotus headboard (from VivaTerra) commands attention with its beauty. Mehta elaborates upon its construction, “Their artisan woodworker in the U.S. combines it with a platform base sourced from vintage, reclaimed Douglas Fir, pairing clean-lined contemporary design with the sculpted Lotus flower, symbolizing rebirth. The result—a bed where fantasies of exotic faraway lands share shams and a duvet cover that shows off a three-dimensional pintuck detailing—reminiscent of fluffy clouds.”

Among many worldly facets of EcoCamelot are such things as an Indianinspired wall hanging, which includes 34 small golden bells, suspended from an intricate iron curtain. These accents flow through the home and into a relaxing meditation room that leads

to the outdoor perimeters. A gorgeous Buddha water feature resides in the calming front courtyard and Zen xeriscape garden. Joseph notes that the meditation room is her favorite spot in the house, “... because of the views towards the Buddha fountain through the French door.” Q

At the foot of the bed, two female Maasai bead necklaces and earrings are displayed atop a handcarved chest made by Indian tradespeople.

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This gorgeous Buddha water fountain is as much sculpturally captivating as it is peaceful to listen to.

An iron curtain of tiny golden bells adds rustic beauty in the form of this Indian-inspired wall hanging.

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R.I.P.

EL BULLI

je t’aime a la folie

story by alex lopez photographed by sean klingelhoefer designed by new theme

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ucked away in the hills of Encino, California, Beth Holden and her team at Los Angeles-based architecture firm New Theme, have recreated the ideal playhouse for a family of four. Drawing inspiration from strong structures and a new approach to making something over, Hayvenhurst Folie redefines the California vacation home and exhibits a modern look with an easy-going environment.

Originally hired to restore the family’s main mid-century home (on the same property), New Theme was brought back in to develop this chic and inspirational concept for the Hayvenhurst Folie playhouse. The designers at New Theme concentrate on collaborating an array of diverse outlets of inspiration while ensuring that every project meets functional standards for each unique lifestyle. Holden worked closely with her husband Wolfgang Melian on Hayvenhurst Folie by, “extract[ing] elements from the existing house and reinvent[ing] them in order to keep a strong relationship between the two structures.”

Holden developed the playhouse along the steeper slope of the property, creating a tree house-like aesthetic, illuminating the purpose of the folie—to escape.

“The way the Folie is positioned, with the window letting in the light softened by the canopy of the trees—it gets beautiful light–is kind of a magical tone.”

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Holden used Doulgas Fir for framing—coated with wood oil for the crisp walnut stain that is seen in both the interior and exterior of the playhouse. Utilizing materials found in the main house, the sofa featured in this separate living space already belonged to the property owners, and was sprucedup for a revamped look. A vintage Le Klint Pendant lighting fixture designed by Poul Christiansen is a beautiful focal point. When asked about the concept ideas for Hayvenhurst Folie, Holden replied that the home projected inspiration from Marie Antoinette’s property at Versailles, using “folie” as a play on words for its English translation which means “crazy.” Holden explains, “For example: ‘Je t’aime a la folie” means “I love you to the point without limits or craziness.” This is why the aristocrats would have ‘small folies’—small houses or structures in which to relax, let go, and be free from the court.”

Hence the reason behind the name of this escape home. “Hayvenhurst” is the street on which the folie resides (a Holden trademark move) and adds a personal touch to the entire project.

Hayvenhurst Folie was completed in early 2011, and has had the chance to be enjoyed by many. Houseguests have even preferred staying in the playhouse over the main home, soaking up every calming aspect of this hillside getaway. Q newtheme.net

The folie is entirely off the grid, serving as a leraning lab of sorts for the girls, ages 8 and 4.

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Holden and her architect husband Wolfgang Melian were inspired by a screen of paneling in the main house, translating the pattern and style to the custom doors of the folie.

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standard visits raven + lily in morocco

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lthough headquartered in Austin, Texas, Raven + Lily has a remarkable global influence. This inspiring company, which began as a Los Angeles-based volunteer operation in late 2007, launched officially in June 2011, and has been reaching out across many borders to empower women through art and design—breaking down barriers as they go. Through partnerships all over the world, Raven + Lily is providing women with the tools and techniques for creating stunning jewelry and accessories, and most importantly, the vital market needed to sell these goods—all while bettering their own futures. Standard’s Mallory Hamel caught cofounder Kirsten Dickerson and lead designer Lori Fox stateside to get the scoop on their latest adventures abroad.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RAVEN + LILY

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MALLORY: You have such a unique paring before we launched as an ofbrand and mission, I have to know— ficial Austin-based social business in what inspired Raven + Lily?

June of 2011.

KIRSTEN: Raven + Lily was born out of a desire to combine our love of design with our hope to alleviate poverty among women around the world. Sophia [Sophia Hirokawa Lin, cofounder] and I were able to collaborate with other designers in LA who shared the same passions. We launched Raven + Lily in partnership with women I knew in Africa and India—from years of travel and relationships. I truly believe in the model of creating sustainable income opportunities for women— not just charity or hand-outs. Each woman is valuable and needs to know that! Raven + Lily provides opportunities to bring hope and dignity into the lives of women who have suffered deeply.

The beauty of the products we sell is a reflection of the beautiful women who make them and how their lives are changing. Raven + Lily took years years of research and pre-

MALLORY: Where in the world has Raven + Lily taken you thus far?

KIRSTEN: We currently have partnerships in North India (empowering marginalized women), East Africa (empowering HIV-positive women), Cambodia (empowering HIV-positive women), Austin (empowering refugees), and Los Angeles (empowering formerly homeless women). Our collections all source materials from within each country, such as h an d-l o o me d , naturally dyed fabrics, recycled cotton paper, metal beads from melted bullet casings, and remnant designer fabrics. We visit our partnership countries to develop designs, evaluate the impact of our partnership, and introduce friends of R+L to our artisan communities (aka Ambassador Trips).

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MALLORY: What is the most impor- how does your mission help to comtant thing for you when looking for your bat the odds? next group of women to work with?

KIRSTEN: It has been extremely diffiKIRSTEN: We are very relational with cult and challenging to launch a comour partnerships, so we want to make pany that works around the world. sure there is a good, personal, direct Each country has different challenges connection. When determining where that we have to work together to overwe will partner, we first access the vi- come. Sometimes that is because the able need among the women, what women are facing the threat of war, or skills they have learned, and what they have been facing a drought, or access to local materials they have. there is a change in leadership. SomeThere has to be a strong point-person times it’s cultural miscommunication. that has a heart for the women, knows Other times, the laws for importing their culture, and is skilled in oversee- and exporting change and we have ing the production on their end. This to be prepared for that so our goods person also has to be a good commu- don’t get stuck in customs or incur exnicator with Raven + Lily. It’s almost tra fees. I have an incredible “operaimpossible to form a sustainable part- tions guru” that oversees the logistinership without this key person that cal challenge of working around the knows both cultures and languages. world, and she does a fantastic job.

We usually do a soft launch of a new The struggle is worth it, because in the partnership to test the designs and end we are helping to employ well over give the women a chance to work out 200 women. That means these womany challenges they might face. Once en are receiving health care, their kids we are confident that the women are are in school, and they are in a loving ready, we take our investment in em- environment where they are earning a powering these women to the next livable income. On our last visit to Ethilevel. opia, it was amazing to see how much the partnership has grown and how MALLORY: Crossing international bor- much the women are thriving comders, especially in underdeveloped pared to when we first started three areas, to accomplish something so years ago. The women in our partnergrand must be difficult at times. Can ships have no idea how hard we work you tell me about what logistical chal- on our end, but it’s nothing compared lenges you face on these trips? What to the challenges they have overcome. about the emotional toll— They are a constant source of inspiration and strength for our whole team.

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MALLORY: Tell me about Morocco! of herself modeling our collection. Our What took you there and who did you other model was a beautiful Morocwork with? can. The two of them were a perfect complement for our spring collection.

KIRSTEN: Morocco is one of my favor- In Ethiopia, we decided to host and ite places in the world. I loved sharing pay for a special luncheon in honor it with so many designer friends! It was of all our artisans (over 100 women). really amazing to me that a group of This was a very big deal to those latalented stylists, photographers, and dies! We told our Ethiopian hosts to designers would pay their way and of- purchase what would be appropriate fer their talents, pro-bono, to join me for a celebration. That ended up being in Morocco for the spring 2013 photo five goats! Because the women like to shoot. We chose Morocco because it’s hand-feed us as a sign of affection, it a designer’s dream, but also because was hilarious seeing our group trying that’s where I wanted to celebrate my to honor the women while dodging 40th birthday! We shot at the amazing any forced feedings of goat meat. In Peacock Pavilions and in the souqs the end, I think most of us had to eat of Marrakesh. We also did the initial goat, and we survived just fine. research for starting a future partnership in Morocco. It usually takes two MALLORY: Can you tell me about the years to launch a new partnership, so architecture and design in Morocco? this was the first stage. There are so many amazing artisan crafts and skills LORI: I was surprised to find out how in Morocco, so I look forward to see- much Moroccan architecture is intering how we can support the beautiful twined with their religion. A couple women with such skills one day. of details that stood out to me were the arched doorways and the painted MALLORY: Did anything particular- ceilings. The purpose of arching the ly out of the ordinary happen to you doorways is that they believe genies when you were in Morocco? (think evil spirits/demons, not Aladdin!) hide in corners. Arching the doorKIRSTEN: The whole trip was such an ways keeps the evil spirits from reachadventure and everyone had a mean- ing out to grab you as you enter or ingful experience. I think one of the fun- leave a room. It provides a safe and ny things was that I asked our talented welcoming passage. One day during photographer (Kate Renz) to double as the photo shoot, we walked through a model for a photo shoot (a request a square door frame and our Morocmade on the spot!). She graciously can model tapped the sides as she said yes and magically captured shots walked through. When I asked her 123

why, she said this scares the genies away. This is much like our superstition of saying “bless you” when someone sneezes. The idea is that an evil spirit is passing through someone and you are asking God to bless them so that the evil spirit doesn’t stay. Painting the ceilings is a reminder to focus on Allah. For the head and eyes to lift, reminds us that there is something beyond here and now. We are to focus on what lies ahead and let that shape the decisions that are being made. I thought that was a beautiful picture and provides an uplifting experience for guests entering your home.

MALLORY: Personally and as a company, what about your experience in Africa will stay with you forever—what really took hold of your hearts the most?

been given the dignity to earn income to provide for their families, start a savings, and send their kids to school.

They are no longer on the edge of death or begging on the streets. They are empowered and know they are valuable and loved. Their strength to persevere under such great trauma challenges each of us to try harder and not give up in the areas of life that are worth fighting for. We cannot forget these women, and their stories are embedded in our hearts forever.

MALLORY: Where do you plan to go next?

KIRSTEN: We are currently expanding our work in Cambodia and Ethiopia, as well as launching a new artisan collection of jewelry from Kenya. We are also growing our newest local partnerships in Austin and Los Angeles. By fall KIRSTEN: The greatest part of this ex- 2013, there will be so many beautiful perience was seeing the impact the new designs from around the world. I Ethiopian women had on everyone can hardly wait! who came on the Ambassador Trip.

It was a very emotional experience for ravenandlily.com our group... not because of the poverty, but because of the tangible glimpse of hope and redemption that has been worked into their lives to break the cycle of poverty! There was joy. The women are happy because they have

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on the boards minh dang

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