Sunday dinners are typically help at my parents’ house as an excuse to get the family together. And I welcome the one day a week (aside from pizza night) where I don’t have to cook. But if I didn’t have my mom’s cooking to look forward to, dinner out would be a sweet alternative. And maybe in Seattle at Samara – a wood-fueled bistro designed by Mutuus Studio. Inside, rich earth tones dominate, bringing to mind a tranquil wooded understory. Dark-stained oak paneling and wainscoting wrap a portion of the space and the bar front, while the balance of the space features a section of the building’s original firewall that was revealed during construction. The firewall is composed of framing timber turned on its side, and now provides a subtle homage to the cooking method of choice. Seating for 30 is handled through a mix of seating groups featuring anti-tip tables topped with wood recycled from old piers, and a leather banquette. A chef’s counter, finished in soapstone, seats an additional six guests. Copper cladding wraps the area above the grill features a rich patina, and hand-made Danish brick, embedded with fused glass, surrounds the grill to create a delicate dance of firelight. 

Photos: Kevin Scott

This loft in Livorno, Italy is where art, music, plants and custom furniture come together to create an edgy, unique home. Also, I’m really digging how the hardwood floor was laid. Very cool! Designed by MODO architettura + design.

I am smitten with this Manhattan pied-à-terre that may be small in size but is loaded with sophistication. Designed by Kyle O’Donnell of Gramercy Design. A small penthouse apartment in a boutique cooperate was found in derelict condition, re-imagined as an elegant, bright, and functional space. We painstakingly replicated mouldings and period architecture in a strong restoration effort. The furnishings are intentionally sculptural and sparse with layered, iconic vintage and modern pieces. Chalky white walls and brass accents brighten the entertaining spaces while sleeping areas are calm and tonal. The terrace was landscaped by Jeffrey Erb Landscape Design, with the intention to feel like an extension of the living room.

Photos: Emily Andrews

You know I had to go here. The lighter side of Leanne Ford. Lighter for the most part. I love that she almost always adds a bit of dark with the light. For contrast.

I wanted to share a bit more from Leanne Ford because this woman can do no wrong. I am in awe of each of her projects so here is a little round up of some of her designs that are a bit on the dark side.