“We are going to buy a twelfth century monastery” declared the subject line of an email from a longtime client. This one just so happened to be located next door to a multi-year project that we have worked on for nearly a decade in the south of France. Though the monks had long since left the premises, the property retained much of its original character. Our mission was to unwind some of the modern alterations that had occured when a kitchen and baths were added– and insert something simpler and less disruptive. Ultimately putting the building back into service with a purpose closer to the original as a creative refuge and housing for artists in conjunction with Saint Joseph’s Arts Foundation.
Ken Fulk taking a monastic approach quite literally with this project and I could not love these gothic, old world vibes more.
This five-bedroom 1960s ranch-style house in Miami underwent a huge transformation, turning it into a wonderfully bright and whimsical home with the help of many Josef Frank fabrics and colours pulled from them. Such vibrant and fun energy exuded from every room. Designed by Bunsa Studio. Photos: Nicole Franzen.
I love the refined elegance of Spanish interiors. Beatriz Aparicio masterfully blends styles with harmony, balancing current trends and timeless elegance. She specializes in combining neutral tones with vibrant accents, skillfully evoking emotions through colour … or the lack thereof. Collaborating with skilled artisans and sourcing treasures from galleries and antique shops, she creates unique, personalized spaces that reflect her clients’ personalities.
Photography by Montse Garriga.
A lovely Mediterranean home located in the flourishing community of Manhattan Beach, California received a significant renovation by designer, Mandy Graham. The original living quarters were reappointed entirely, creating a renewed dynamic that radiates light and space. The existing windows and central fireplace of the former living room allowed the creation of a new perspective. Graham chose this location for the chef’s kitchen and adjoining dining area. The designer prescribed the same attention to detail within the construction of the bespoke cabinetry as she does throughout the home. The execution of details brought together with plaster, travertine and rustic wood are a testament to the designer’s modern sensibility. Graham embraces traditional architecture and affirms such framework with the modification of thick walls, arches and reclaimed beams. Many of the home’s furnishings are a nod to the designer’s furniture collections which stand in contrast to that of the traditional art and antiques.
Another example of the creativity and bespoke level of detail that continues to draw me to this incredibly talented designer. Photos: Jasper Carlberg.
A linear and geometric single-story home tucked in the historic neighborhood of Wilshire Square in Los Angeles is a tribute to the designer’s ability to introduce mid-century with a fresh yet timeless perspective. Douglas-fir and Mahogany are the common threads that connect the interior spaces and offer a welcoming atmosphere of elegance and integration. Warmth and comfort are achieved in the bespoke kitchen that Graham identifies as a living space. The sculptural marble island enjoys counter seating from all sides and is enveloped by the wall-to-wall illuminated Douglas-fir built-ins that span the room. The open shelving concept provides optimal storage with customized wood boxes, hanging drawers and lower pull-out trays. Beyond the kitchen, Graham appointed a wood paneled butler’s pantry with integrated refrigeration and ovens. A secondary free-standing sink and dishwasher are a nod to the designer’s furniture collections. Mahogany storage solutions were designed to characterize the home’s mid-century architecture and separate rooms with integrated jambs and thresholds. Douglas-fir paneled bathrooms and custom marble sinks are yet another reminder of the cohesive and articulate design concept. Beyond the architectural key features, noteworthy mid-century furnishings were chosen for their authenticity amidst the client’s carefully curated art collection.
I am always and forever fascinated by Mandy Graham‘s approach to design. Monastic, minimal and unique with incredible attention to detail. Photos: Jasper Carlberg.