Displaying posts labeled "Stairs"

This historic Chicago house has undergone a transformative renovation guided by interior designer Cari Giannoulias. Preserving its rich history, she expertly blended past and present, enhancing the grand staircase and salvaging original features like panelled doors, fireplace and woodwork. The house, reimagined as a gentleman’s retreat, exudes understated charm. Muted hues and neutral tones dominate, creating a serene ambience where every element harmonises, from skirting boards to furnishings. It’s a marriage of the past and the present. The result is a timeless classic.

The penthouse, located in a typical Parisian 8th arrondissement structure, was totally transformed by connecting a floor of “chambres de bonnes” or attic rooms with the existing apartment below, by means of a fluid plaster-clad staircase that provides a luminous passage between residential and private areas. Distinctive Haussmannian details were interpreted in a more modern way: bleached “pointe de Hongrie” oak floors, open perspectives between the spaces, plaster moldings and detailing, a glass-partitioned “atelier d’artiste”. On both levels outside views are emphasized and stretch from the Arc de Triomphe & the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre. The architecture remains sober and timeless, allowing the owners’ breathtaking art & design collection to add color to the rooms. A mesmerizing mix of African elements by Maison Intègre and more cutting-edge pieces by Van Severen, Paulin and Charpin complement vintage Gino Sarfatti & Paavo Tynell fixtures and Sheila Hicks tapestries. Many rooms feature bespoke designs by Hélène Van Marcke’s studio, including desks, sofas and a custom headboard with Sam Kasten hand-woven upholstering.
A perfect blend of elegance and minimalism to not distract from the monumental views of Paris. Also throw in a Flos Zeppelin chandelier and I’m smitten. Another beauty designed by Hélène Van Marcke. Photos: Cafeïne.

Once in a blue moon an apartment directly overlooking the prestigious Parc Monceau comes on the market! The Parc Monceau clients jumped on the occasion, even if they had to trade in their spacious Haussmannien apartment for a series of quirky spaces. Located on the upper floors of a wonderful “hotel particulier” overlooking the park, this project was a real puzzle! In the end we managed to structurally open it up so much that now the light even flows in the darkest corners of this home. None of the authentic architectural elements survived the previous renovations, but the uncovering of the beautiful “violin” structures of the windows was poetic enough to inspire us throughout this whole process.
The exterior of this residence is everything you could want in Paris architecture, and the interior is indeed quirky but the uniqueness and those photo-worthy windows really makes this apartment stand out. Designed by Hélène Van Marcke. Photos: Cafeïne.

Inspired by the Modernist ideals of truth in material and connection to nature this design is overlaid with a casual eclecticism. Mid-century, contemporary and custom pieces sit within a simple concrete formwork box with soaring ceilings and large windows framing views of the local landscape. Bespoke handcrafted elements soften the concrete structure, creating comfortable conversational spaces and accentuating materiality and texture. The design prioritizes everyday use across five levels, fulfilling the clients’ desire for a real sense of fun and openness. Bunker in the Treetops by Esoteriko.

In inner Sydney, an artist and musician transformed their 19th-century Victorian terrace home, guided by their love for heritage, art and innovative ideas. The renovation incorporates hexagonal grey tiles, sparking a creative blend of materials, geometries, and textures. The design emphasizes openness, light and a strong indoor-outdoor connection. Sliding doors welcome in natural light, while a customized ‘cabinet of curiosities’ showcases their collections. The courtyard garden, reminiscent of a Victorian fernery, features vibrant art and unique architectural elements. Throughout, the original terrace’s charm is preserved, honouring its fireplaces, ceilings, floorboards, and stairs. Darlinghurst Terrace by Sam Crawford Architects.

Photography by Brett Boardman.