Displaying posts labeled "Stone"

Vita Sackville-West, the poet and writer, began transforming Sissinghurst Castle Garden in the 1930s with her diplomat and author husband Harold Nicolson. Delos is one of ten garden rooms at Sissinghurst. It had originally been built in response to a visit that Harold and Vita had made in 1935 to the ruins of the Greek island of this name in the Cyclades. In 2014, Head Gardener Troy Scott Smith invited Dan Pearson to act as Garden Advisor to Sissinghurst. Four years later in 2018, Troy invited Dan and his studio to work with him and his team to re-imagine the garden. (Info via National Trust)
I have never seen a garden like this and my mind is completely blown. As much as I adore a lush, almost overgrown and “wild” garden, this barren, Mediterranean style stone garden is spectacular, and made even more special with a castle in the background.

This gorgeous home on 130 acres is located in Millbrook, in the Hudson Valley. Designed by Cicognani Kalla Architect it is country living at its finest. The great room has two 18th century stone fireplaces, limestone tile floors, and custom French doors. The kitchen opens right up onto fabulous gardens and a stone terrace. It has a heated greenhouse, wine cellar, chicken coop, and outbuildings include caretaker’s home and office. I also found that in December of last year it was for sale for $13.1M. What a dream!

Malvern East Terrace House by Melbourne-based Studio Esteta transforms a double-fronted Victorian terrace into a warm family home that connects seamlessly with its garden. Inspired by Mediterranean villas of Sicily and Southern Europe, the clients aimed for a layered, open space that reflects their favorite travel destinations. The design carefully preserves the home’s heritage, with four rooms reconfigured, including a main bedroom suite and a guest room. A new addition blends modern elements with historic charm, featuring travertine steps, French doors, and a double-height void. The extension prioritizes entertaining, with lofty ceilings and operable glazing uniting indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a harmonious living environment.

Photography by Derek Swalwell.

“Follow us into this 255 m² Parisian apartment located in the 7th arrondissement, near Les Invalides. This Haussmannian gem has become a vibrant family living space that highlights a unique art collection. Iconic Art Deco furniture pieces stand alongside major contemporary artworks in a fully reimagined Haussmannian architecture.”

Ah I do love Haussmannian apartments! And I do love this renovation by Julien Ensarguet, Pierre Petit and Richard Guilbault of Atelier Daaa.

Photography by Cafeine.

Perched on Manly’s Shelly Beach headlands, Shell House by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects blends with its stunning surroundings, celebrating contrast through curved and linear elements. The design reflects the bay’s shape with features like an organic pool and curved furnishings while interiors remain understated to enhance the breathtaking views. Sandstone walls and glass seamlessly integrate the home with the landscape, offering an immersive experience. Minimal outdoor footprint and expansive glazing emphasize proximity to the bay, creating a tranquil, immersive retreat that harmonizes with the unique coastal setting.

Photography by Prue Ruscoe.