I had to share another project designed by Mandy Graham because I am officially smitten. This one is a wonderful example of how to highlight a quirky art collection without providing distractions. And another example of her magical ways with kitchen design.

Photos: Jasper Carlberg

When a designer is willing to concern themselves wholeheartedly with the details, no matter how simplistic or ornate, I am going to pay close attention. I came across the 1920’s Palos Verdes, California Spanish cottage of designer Mandy Graham and quickly became an admirer of her work. The arched doorways throughout and the kitchen are blowing my mind. The diversity of her projects share a design philosophy that defines a cohesive balance of texture, light and form. The use of such restraint communicates an aesthetic that is both timeless and sophisticated. Respect.

Photos: Jasper Carlberg

I may be obsessed as of late with centuries old homes but on the other, completely opposing hand a simple, modern home with a black exterior and concrete floors is something I will always be drawn to. This home is giving me life and is GORGEOUS inside and out. For cityhomeCOLLECTIVE owner Cody’s Derrick’s personal residence, we worked with Sparano & Mooney Architecture and builders Sausage Space to create a “best of both worlds” concept: the goal was to bridge the gap between condo/loft living and a ground-level home that included yard space and room to grow. As lead designer on the project, Cody worked collaboratively with Sparano & Mooney to ensure that a simple but imaginative layout served as the blueprint for a plethora of natural materials and a focus on the elements (water being the feature at the center of the home’s footprint). Local craftsmen were hired wherever possible (in this case, for railings, cabinets, kitchen island, custom dining table, custom pigmented concrete, etc). For the interior design, we focused on a layered approach–from salvaged chandeliers and chairs to plants, books, art, etc.–that would add to the warmth of the open space and balance the newness of the project.

I really appreciate designers who set out to create wow moments in their designs. In the case of Chad Dorsey and “the listening room” it’s this sumptuous deep red/burgundy wall colour with matching furniture (Ginger Snap by C2 Paint). In his “covid nights” bar area it’s another punchy colour enveloping everything but the floor. Birds in a ceiling alcove, and a massive brass hood with royal blue stove in an all white kitchen are just a couple more from his portfolio. WOW indeed!!!

Sundays are for lounging and dreaming. Perhaps dreaming of a faraway land where 17th century Grade I Georgian mansions prevail, in this case in the Suffolk countryside surrounded by an orangery, gardens, woodland, pool and pond, and are filled with treasures. I could dream all day long about how much potential this wonderous home has….. Location home available through Shoot Factory.