Meet Sofia Simioni | Architect & Interior Designer

Silvana Souza, an interior designer and realtor, discusses her journey into entrepreneurship, driven by a passion for design and a desire for autonomy. With over 13 years of experience in interior design, she aimed to create personalized and functional spaces that reflect each client's individuality. Her decision to start her own business stemmed from wanting the freedom to implement her unique vision and build strong client relationships. Souza's approach focuses on crafting meaningful spaces that bear her distinctive signature. Souza's career is marked by her dedication to high-end, turnkey interior design projects. She holds a bachelor's degree in interior design and has further enhanced her capabilities by acquiring a real estate license. This dual qualification provides her with a comprehensive understanding of both design aesthetics and the real estate market, enabling her to offer clients strategic advice. She assists clients in making informed decisions about designing spaces, whether for resale purposes or for creating their long-term homes, ensuring their investments align with their future goals. Her design philosophy centers on storytelling, believing that every space should narrate the personality and needs of its inhabitants. She strives to create environments that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional and purposeful, collaborating closely with clients while providing expert guidance to simplify their choices. Souza acknowledges the challenges inherent in entrepreneurship, including moments of self-doubt, balancing business growth with family life, and adapting to an evolving industry. She emphasizes that these setbacks served as valuable learning opportunities, fostering persistence, patience, and adaptability. She highlights the importance of a strong support network and mentors in navigating her professional path. A key lesson learned is that success is not linear, and each experience contributes to increased confidence and a clearer vision. Souza is committed to authenticity, creativity, and a genuine desire to enhance lives through design, aiming to create environments that evoke emotion, offer comfort, and reflect unique identities. She assures clients of her dedication, expertise, and care throughout the entire design process. For visitors to the area, Souza suggests a varied itinerary combining relaxation with exploration. A typical week might begin with unwinding at her farmhouse in Fort Pierce, including peaceful walks on private trails. Day two could involve exploring Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach, known for its boutiques and dining spots. East Boca is recommended for dinner and drinks, specifically Louie Bossie. The Miami Design District offers artistic and architectural exploration, followed by a stylish lunch. Miami Beach's Art Deco district and Wynwood's street art scene are suggested for a vibrant cultural experience. A relaxed day on Boca Lake for boating and grilling, and a general beach day, round out the recommendations. These suggestions reflect a blend of natural beauty, urban culture, and culinary experiences. Souza expresses deep gratitude to her family, particularly her husband, for his unwavering support and encouragement in her entrepreneurial venture. Her children are also recognized for their understanding and patience, which allows her to focus on her business. She extends a special thanks to her mother for providing childcare, a crucial element enabling her professional growth. Additionally, Natalia Britto receives a shoutout for her valuable design business coaching and mentorship. Souza's website (homedesignstudio.us/about/), Instagram (@homedesignstudios), LinkedIn (silvanasouzahomes), and Facebook (homedesignstudiollc) are provided for further information and engagement. Portrait photography is credited to Sue Cervelin of Hello Studios, and project photography to Steve Olmo of Sea Olive Studios. #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #Entrepreneurship #BusinessJourney #DesignPhilosophy #WorkLifeBalance #ClientRelationships #MiamiLifestyle #BusinessMentorship

Elizabeth Sims, the Principal Designer behind CALAFIA Home Design, discusses her journey from an MFA-educated studio artist and arts educator to a successful interior designer and entrepreneur. Her passion for interior design, initially a side pursuit for friends and family, evolved into a full-fledged business in 2015. Sims recognized the unique value her artistic background brought to clients seeking timeless and distinct interiors that resonate with California's rich design heritage and landscape. Her dual career as an artist and designer offers both creative fulfillment and a balanced professional life. CALAFIA Home Design draws its name from the mythical island of Queen Calafia, an early Spanish explorer's imagining of the West Coast. This name embodies the romantic mythology and diverse cultural roots of California, aligning with Sims' mission to craft living spaces that tell her clients' individual California stories. She approaches each project as a bespoke work of art, emphasizing custom, personal, and timeless designs that honor a home's history and its owners' style and practical needs. Sims expresses deep gratitude to her clients, viewing their trust as an honor and motivating her commitment to an accessible, transparent, and joyful design process. When asked about an ideal Bay Area itinerary, Sims highlights the intertwining of landscape and design in the region. Her recommendations include exploring the hidden gardens and architectural marvels in the East Bay hills, such as Julia Morgan buildings, the Berkeley Horticultural Society, Botanical Gardens, and the Cal campus. A suggested evening activity is drinks at the historic Claremont Hotel, offering panoramic views of the Bay. In San Francisco, she recommends visiting the Minnesota Street Projects for art galleries, the Coit Tower murals, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Xanadu Gallery, and the modern architecture of St. Mary’s Cathedral. To complete the experience, a drive across the Golden Gate Bridge to see the Sausalito houseboats, the heritage Heath ceramic studio, and a hike in the headlands are suggested. Sims credits her entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic to her father and grandfather, who managed a produce distribution business. Their example taught her the value of building an enterprise and cultivating respectful relationships across industries. Additionally, her family instilled in her a profound appreciation for design. She recalls her parents' collection of early California watercolors, her aunt and uncle's home celebrating Mexican heritage, and her grandmother's subscription to Architectural Digest. These early influences shaped her understanding of California's diverse design heritage and how a home can uniquely tell a family's story, a philosophy that now underpins CALAFIA Home Design.

Maria Isabel Segura, an architect and interior designer, discusses her journey and her philosophy of integrating creativity and design with wellness. She emphasizes that her legacy will be centered on how design can act as a powerful healing tool, promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Segura, who emigrated from Costa Rica to Miami, faced a significant life challenge at 23 with open-heart surgery, an experience that reinforced her belief in resilience and starting anew. This pivotal event motivated her to pursue a career focused on healthcare design and holistic wellness, aiming to improve lives through thoughtfully designed spaces. Segura's professional path reflects a deep-seated passion for creating and designing spaces, which began in her childhood. She became a Registered Architect in Costa Rica in 2018. Following her move to Miami in 2019, she pursued a Master's in Interior Architecture, graduating with honors from FIU in Spring 2022. Her brand, MS ARQUITECTURA E INTERIORISMO, founded in Costa Rica in 2018, initially aimed to build a design community centered on interior architecture, wellness, and health. The goal was to demonstrate how interior design and architecture could be used as healing tools to enhance living quality and overall well-being. This vision materialized in Miami in 2022 with the establishment of MS DESIGN, WELLNESS & HEALTH. Currently, Segura operates as a Wellness Interior Designer, primarily focusing on residential consultancy. Her work involves designing unique spaces that facilitate healing and incorporate holistic interior trends to improve quality of life. MS DESIGN, WELLNESS & HEALTH is conceptualized as an Interior Architecture Lab that merges her core passions: creativity, design, and well-being. She advocates for design that transcends mere luxury and aesthetics, positioning interior architecture as a powerful means to boost health and wellness by creating conducive healing environments at home. Segura asserts that individuals are profoundly influenced by their physical surroundings, and an appropriate environment can foster a better version of oneself. The success of her design brand is attributed to this integrated approach, which allows her to enhance her clients' quality of life. Her services include Design Coaching, Professional Design Shopper, Healing Interior Design Residential Layout and Conceptualization, Consultancy, and Healing Color Palette Creation. Clients can connect with her through her webpage or Instagram for consultations. Segura also shares personal preferences, such as exploring natural spots like Bayfront Park in Miami and enjoying coffee in areas like Coconut Grove or Coral Gables with friends and family. Segura expresses profound gratitude to her parents, dedicating her story to them. She acknowledges their unwavering support, guidance, motivation during difficult times, and their belief in her when others did not. Her narrative underscores themes of personal growth, professional dedication, and the impactful intersection of design with holistic well-being, highlighting her journey from an immigrant with a dream to a successful wellness architect and interior designer committed to making a positive difference in people's lives through her work. #WellnessArchitect #InteriorDesign #MariaIsabelSegura #HolisticWellness #MiamiDesign #HealingEnvironments #EntrepreneurJourney #DesignPhilosophy

Architect Mariam Issoufou discusses her design philosophy and recent projects, including the Rolex Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale and the upcoming Bët-bi museum in Senegal. Issoufou, founder of Mariam Issoufou Architecture and a professor of architecture heritage and sustainability at ETH Zurich, emphasizes a research-led approach that prioritizes local contexts, craftsmanship, and sustainable practices. Her work spans various regions, with a notable focus on projects within the African continent and Europe. The Rolex Pavilion, commissioned for the Venice Architecture Biennale, was designed to reflect Rolex's identity while addressing Carlo Ratti's 2025 theme of adaptation to climate change. Issoufou's design for the pavilion showcases a commitment to local materials and artisan collaboration. The facade is constructed from recycled wooden beams sourced locally, and the interior features a translucent colored ceiling crafted by Murano glassmakers, which creates dynamic light effects. The terrazzo flooring incorporates recycled Cottisso crushed glass. Issoufou aimed to honor Venice's heritage of making and to demonstrate how recycled and local materials can be used effectively in high-profile projects, similar to her work in Africa where materials like recycled metal, earth, and cement are commonly employed. Her design process for the Rolex Pavilion began by considering the unique shape of Venice, a city divided by the Grand Canal, which inspired the form and exhibition spaces of the structure. The project also focused on collaboration across different intelligences and showcased resource efficiency. Issoufou expressed pride in seeing the pavilion come together through the work of local glass, metal, and woodworkers, highlighting the successful integration of traditional Venetian artistry with contemporary sustainable design principles. Issoufou’s practice is characterized by a consistent research-led methodology across all her projects. Instead of imposing a design, she first investigates the architectural history, climate, and vulnerabilities of a specific location. Following this, she identifies and engages with local makers and their existing knowledge and skills. This collaborative and context-driven research then informs the design process, ensuring that each project is uniquely tailored to its environment and community. This approach allows the questions she asks in her projects to remain consistent, while the solutions and outcomes vary based on the specific research findings. Sustainability, for Issoufou, is an intersectional concept that extends beyond mere ecological considerations. She integrates green standards with social, cultural, and economic upliftment for the communities involved in her projects. This holistic view ensures that her architectural interventions contribute positively to the broader well-being of people and places, preserving cultural heritage and fostering economic opportunities. Beyond the Rolex Pavilion, Issoufou is currently focused on the construction phases of two significant projects: the Bët-bi museum in Senegal and the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center in Monrovia, Liberia. The Bët-bi museum, commissioned by the Josef and Anni Albers Foundation and Le Korsa, will be a 1,000-square-meter center for contemporary and historic African art, also serving as a temporary home for repatriated objects. Its triangular form is inspired by the Indigenous Serer people's belief system, symbolizing the relationship between elements, the living, and the dead. The museum will be built into the landscape using sustainable, traditional materials with the help of local artisans, reflecting Issoufou’s commitment to culturally resonant and environmentally responsible design. The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center, where Issoufou is the lead architect, involves collaborations with Sumayya Vally and Karen Richards Barnes, further exemplifying her collaborative and community-focused design ethos. These ongoing projects underscore her dedication to creating spaces that are deeply rooted in their cultural and environmental contexts while promoting sustainability and community engagement. #Architecture #SustainableDesign #VeniceArchitectureBiennale #RolexPavilion #MariamIssoufou #CulturalHeritage #CommunityEngagement #AfricanArchitecture #LocalCraftsmanship

This article features an interview with Vanessa Rome, an interior designer based in New York City, discussing her career, business philosophy, and personal recommendations. Rome attributes her success to a Type A personality, strong organizational skills, and an unwavering passion for interior design. She emphasizes that her work feels less like a job and more like a calling, which allows her to dedicate long hours and weekends to her projects without feeling burdened. Vanessa Rome Interiors operates as a boutique residential interior design studio in New York City. Rome deliberately limits the number of projects taken on each year to fewer than ten. This approach ensures that each client receives a high level of personalized attention and meticulous care, reflecting the standard of service she would expect as a client herself. A key lesson she has learned in her career is the critical importance of measuring and re-measuring everything to ensure accuracy and prevent errors in design execution. When asked about recommendations for a friend visiting New York City, Rome suggests a culinary and cultural tour. Her top dining picks include Indochine, a long-standing favorite from her NYU days, and upscale Asian restaurants like Nobu and Mr. Chow. For activities, she recommends walking through the neighborhoods of Tribeca and Soho to explore various clothing and furniture stores, indulging her passion for both fashion and home aesthetics. A stroll through Central Park is also highlighted for its people-watching opportunities and scenic beauty. Rome acknowledges the significant contributions of several individuals and groups to her professional journey. She expresses gratitude for the support of her husband and family, who provide her with the freedom and encouragement to pursue her demanding career. Her team also receives recognition, as she states that she could not achieve her goals without their collaboration and dedication. Additionally, she values her fellow interior designer colleagues, who serve as sources of inspiration, guidance, and emotional support during stressful periods. The article also provides contact information for Vanessa Rome Interiors, including her website (vanessaromeinteriors.com) and Instagram handle (@vanessaromeinteriors). The illustrations accompanying the article are credited to photographers Marco Ricca and Julia Lynn. The interview concludes by encouraging readers to nominate other deserving individuals for recognition through Shoutout Miami's platform, reinforcing the community-driven mission of the publication. #InteriorDesign #VanessaRome #Entrepreneurship #NewYorkCity #DesignStudio #WorkEthic #BoutiqueBusiness #PersonalInterview

Australian designer and stylist Simone Haag’s recent project involved furnishing a four-story house in Melbourne, a property previously worked on by renowned architecture firm Edition Office and Flack Studio. The home, originally constructed by Angle, features a curved facade and expansive windows, blending modernist history with contemporary living. The clients are a family of seven, with several adult children who have moved out. Hagg was tasked with adding the finishing touches to the interiors, working with a substantial budget that allowed for the realization of ambitious design ideas, such as a custom rug that mirrors the architectural curves of the space. Her long-standing relationship with the homeowners fostered a high level of trust, providing her with creative freedom. She also incorporated the clients' collection of classic pieces, like an Arne Jacobsen Egg chair, which she re-covered in a tweed-like fabric. Haag implemented a camel-colored carpet in the primary bedroom, combined with a pared-back textured grasscloth wallpaper. This design choice, initially a risk for her due to its permanence in a five-bedroom house, ultimately proved successful. She also highlighted the concept of placing a console behind a sofa, a technique she intends to reuse in future projects, as it neatly finishes the couch and avoids exposing its back. The use of templates to ensure custom rugs precisely followed architectural curves was another key strategy. Among her notable discoveries was Hommes Studio, based in Porto, Portugal, whose designs, particularly the lacquered Malala drawers, impressed her with their blend of elegance and quirkiness. These drawers were integrated into the main bedroom, complementing existing joinery. A particular artwork by Alice Wormald, which dictated a tan and electric blue color palette and had a wall sized specifically for it, was ultimately not purchased by the clients. While Haag moved on to incorporate open shelving instead, the homeowner later expressed regret over not acquiring the piece. Conversely, the clients convinced Haag to reuse existing bedside tables in the primary bedroom, a decision she initially resisted but ultimately found made sense. They also insisted on having a TV in the bedroom, a point on which they prevailed. The dining area represented the project's biggest splurge, with a Minotti table and deeply cushioned Fogia Spisolini chairs selected to create a loungelike and inviting atmosphere for the entire family. Smart savings were achieved by repurposing and recovering existing furniture pieces, such as an ottoman and a Flag Halyard chair, thereby minimizing waste and giving new life to old items. An initial design idea for a freestanding mirror with hooks and trays for the basement entry was sidelined during the planning phase but remains a potential future addition. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MelbourneArchitecture #SimoneHaag #LuxuryInteriors #CustomDesign #ModernistInfluence #HomeTour

Simon Hamui, a renowned Mexican design studio, has expanded its presence by opening a new showroom in Aspen. This marks a significant step for the studio, which has been influenced by industrial design and architecture, bringing its unique approach to interior architecture and custom-made furniture to a new market. The studio's design philosophy is deeply rooted in two core principles: understanding context and recognizing human interaction with their environment. Context involves integrating the natural surroundings, including the local palette, textures, and climate, into the design. The second principle focuses on people, considering their lifestyles and how they experience their spaces to create designs that enhance daily living, making it more comfortable and fulfilling. Simon Hamui, who has resided in Vail for 15 years, envisioned a retail space where the public could directly engage with the studio's furniture collection and design ethos. Aspen emerged as the ideal location for this vision due to its sophisticated clientele and appreciation for high-quality design. The new showroom serves as a showcase for exclusive pieces from the Simon Hamui Collection, emphasizing the studio’s expertise in interior design and its commitment to Mexican craftsmanship. Each piece in the collection is meticulously crafted in-house at the Simon Hamui Studio’s workshops, ensuring a high level of quality and attention to detail. A significant aspect of their offering is the personalization options available, allowing clients to tailor pieces to their specific needs and preferences. This customization extends to a variety of materials, enabling clients to create unique combinations and palettes that result in a final product embodying both exceptional craftsmanship and a collaborative design process. Aesthetically, the collection is characterized by its geometric and industrial style, which thoughtfully incorporates assembly as a visible design element. This industrial aesthetic is softened and balanced by the use of premium materials and an unwavering focus on functionality. Renee Espinosa, a spokeswoman for the studio, highlighted the initial positive reception of the Aspen showroom, noting that visitors have frequently commented on the serene atmosphere of the space and the superior craftsmanship of the furniture. Espinosa described the showroom as feeling “highly sophisticated yet relaxed and congruent with the Aspen surroundings.” She also mentioned that the sensory experience within the space, encompassing the textures of the finishes, the curated art, music, and even the scent, contributes to an immersive and memorable visit. Adding to its strategic expansion, Simon Hamui Studio has also forged a partnership with Studio Como, a high-end furniture showroom located less than a block away in Aspen. Studio Como specializes in contemporary European design and offers bespoke solutions for both residential and commercial projects. This collaboration was a natural progression, given the long-standing relationship between the two entities. The goal of this partnership is to establish a comprehensive design hub in Aspen, catering to design enthusiasts and offering a broader range of high-quality interior solutions. The new Simon Hamui showroom, located at 620 E Hyman Ave., aims to be a cornerstone for interior design innovation and bespoke furniture in the Aspen community. #InteriorDesign #SimonHamui #Aspen #DesignStudio #CustomFurniture #MexicanCraftsmanship #ShowroomOpening #ContextualDesign #IndustrialDesign

The article offers a detailed tour of interior designer and Instagram personality Sophie Paterson's country home, which she acquired as a concrete shell in 2012, allowing her to meticulously design the interior architecture from the ground up. Paterson describes the house as having a desirable layout, spaciousness, and a social flow that accommodates both family life and the need for quiet. The tour begins with the kitchen, which Paterson considers the heart of the home, used for everything from daily breakfast to weekend dinner parties. She highlights the enhanced lighting by John Cullen, which creates a moody yet cozy atmosphere in the evenings. A round art piece by Fenella Elms, featuring porcelain discs in undulating waves, is noted as her favorite item, positioned above an antique weathered oak bureau from Holland where she stores stationery. The living room is designed as a TV-free zone for socializing, listening to music, or reading. It features a silk blue wallpaper that subtly changes color throughout the day. Paterson particularly enjoys reading by the fire in this room. A Porta Romana coffee table, which she had desired for years, is her preferred piece of furniture in the living room. The utility room, despite being the smallest, is a personal favorite, transformed into a luxurious and functional space three years prior. It serves multiple purposes, including changing her baby's nappy, managing deliveries, arranging flowers, and doing laundry, underscoring its constant use. Moving to the private spaces, the nursery was designed with a preppy and enduring style for her son, incorporating animal heads from Fiona Walker and monogrammed bed linen from her Coze collection. The master bedroom features a striking burgundy wallpaper with hand-painted and embroidered magnolia branches from her Fromental collection, chosen to balance masculine and feminine aesthetics. A Mother of Pearl sideboard from Luxdeco is another cherished item in this room. The master bedroom also includes an LG wallpaper TV, which Paterson, despite her initial professional reservations, has embraced for family movie nights and cartoon-watching with her children. Finally, the child's bedroom, designed for her daughter Ava, was created during Paterson's pregnancy with her son. The goal was to make Ava's transition to a new room enjoyable and special. Ava's love for princesses and animals inspired a four-poster princess bed and a custom-designed wallpaper with Fromental, featuring Ava's chosen animals and family groupings. This wallpaper is noted for its playful details that stimulate a child's imagination while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic suitable for a teenager. A rocking horse, a first Christmas gift from her grandfather, is cherished as a potential family heirloom, reflecting Ava's passion for horses. #InteriorDesign #SophiePaterson #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #InteriorArchitecture #HomeTour #DesignInspiration

British artist Sophie Smallhorn, whose work explores the relationships between color, volume, and proportion, grew up immersed in a creative environment. Her parents were industrial and textile designers, and her Montessori education, with its use of brightly colored, precisely shaped wooden objects, fostered an early understanding of color, form, and dimension. This upbringing shaped her artistic approach, which is characterized by sophisticated geometric solids and a focus on color dynamics. Initially, Smallhorn pursued a degree in Wood, Metal, Ceramics, and Plastics at the University of Brighton, where she crafted sculptural furniture pieces that, despite their limited functionality, were primarily driven by color. She began creating assemblages from leftover materials for personal enjoyment, eventually selling them informally. Her acceptance of her work as fine art came only after a gallery explicitly presented it as sculpture, reflecting her background in design and making. Early career milestones included significant commissions from the avant-garde fashion brand Comme des Garçons, which provided opportunities for large-scale installations at its Tokyo flagship. These projects broadened her scope, leading to collaborations such as developing a 56-color palette for the London 2012 Olympic Stadium with Populous Architects, where exterior canvas banners in various hues marked spectator entrances. More recently, Smallhorn has ventured into textile design with Designtex, creating an upholstery pattern named Ribbon. This marks her first formal foray into textiles, a field her mother worked in, and one Smallhorn initially resisted due to her discomfort with digital design processes and the overwhelming possibilities of digital printing. However, a clear vision from Designtex's executive design director, Sara Balderi, during their renewed collaboration post-COVID, made the digital process manageable and even a revelation. The inspiration for the Ribbon motif originated from an enameled snuff box with an undulating ribbon, which Smallhorn encountered at the Victoria and Albert Museum. She developed the idea by physically manipulating collage and colored acetates, twisting and folding them, before translating these physical experiments into a digital layout for pattern repeat, palette, and scale. The initial design, which started smaller, evolved into a bold, graphic, and dynamic pattern with a theatrical quality, largely influenced by Designtex. The ribbon on the fabric is not solid but composed of parallel lines, a deliberate choice by Smallhorn to achieve an effect similar to screen printing, where overlapping transparent colors create a third hue, adding a playful and energizing graphic element. A solid version of this pattern, called Flat Ribbon, is available as a customizable wallcovering through Designtex’s Digital Studio website. Smallhorn notes a significant crossover between her two-dimensional prints and her three-dimensional sculptures and installations, as both involve compositions of hard-edged formal shapes. Screen printing serves as a rapid and playful method for developing ideas, allowing for serendipitous color scenarios that often inform her sculptural pieces. While her three-dimensional work does not allow for layering transparent colors, the print table mimics sketching, providing inspiration for new color combinations. She uses the same acrylic paint for both prints and assemblages, viewing the latter as vehicles for exploring and holding a palette. Smallhorn emphasizes the intuitive nature of her color decisions, often repainting pieces multiple times to achieve a desired equilibrium among what she describes as 'easy' and 'less easy' or 'awkward' and 'less awkward' colors, without relying on a predefined system. Her collaborations with brands like Comme des Garçons and COS exemplify her ability to bridge fine art and commercial design. For COS, she created window displays for five global stores, featuring large, overgrown stacks of shapes designed to complement product displays. This dual engagement with both artistic and commercial realms is a comfortable space for Smallhorn, who appreciates working with brands that share a similar sensibility toward color and design. Her career demonstrates a consistent exploration of color, form, and proportion across various mediums, continually seeking synergistic relationships in her chromatic work. #SophieSmallhorn #ArtistInterview #ColorDesign #Sculpture #TextileDesign #InteriorArt #DesigntexCollaboration #GeometricForms #CreativeProcess

The article details the transformation of an 18th-century former refectory in Noto, Sicily, into a combined home and studio for painter-sculptor Sergio Fiorentino. Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known as the “giardino di pietra” for its baroque stone architecture and attracts numerous artists and designers. Fiorentino, originally from Catania, initially pursued a career in design, restoring antique ceramics and opening a gallery specializing in Italian furniture and decorative objects from the 1930s to the 1960s. He later transitioned to full-time painting, leading him to Noto. He acquired the refectory, part of a former Cistercian monastery adjacent to a deconsecrated church, for his studio. Around the same time, architect Massimo Carnemolla of +CStudio Architetti returned to his native Noto after working in Rome, Amsterdam, and Paris. Carnemolla, a self-proclaimed artisan who also designs decorative accessories and interiors, met Fiorentino and a collaboration ensued. Both Fiorentino and Carnemolla approached the project with a philosophy of minimal intervention, emphasizing respect for the historical site and its existing features, such as 14-foot limestone walls and original gray polished cement floor tiles. The primary architectural addition was a 175-square-foot sleeping loft, increasing the total living and working space to 825 square feet. Fiorentino personalized the loft with his own designs—a walnut and brass credenza and wall-mounted cabinet—along with armchairs attributed to Gio Ponti and 1950s light fixtures. The ascent to the loft is marked by a minimalist cast-iron staircase, comprising treads welded to a beam. Below the loft, an open kitchen features a cast-iron island designed by Carnemolla, integrating a cooktop and sink. The bathroom is also open-plan, with a glass door for privacy, and features a shower-room design with a floor drain. The bathroom's walls, floor, and sink vanity are clad in the same gray tiles found throughout the space. Decorative elements include a 1950s round mirror framed with cerulean glass and a yellow wasp-waisted sconce from the same era. The living and working areas flow seamlessly, defined by Fiorentino’s curated collection of Italian design pieces. The living room showcases Gianfranco Frattini rocking chairs upholstered in mint green, a Federico Munari sofa and lounge chair in crimson fabric (all from the 1960s), a Gastone Rinaldi armchair, and a white-glazed torso sculpture. Lighting is provided by a spiky floor lamp with multicolored shades. The dining area combines Gio Ponti’s Superleggera chairs, Vittorio Nobili’s Medea chairs, and a glass-topped trestle table reminiscent of Ico Parisi’s style. Fiorentino's cherished futurist ceramics are displayed in an arched niche. Throughout the space, Fiorentino's paintings are prominently displayed. His current work explores haunting faces, figures, and themes of birth or rebirth, with large canvases often featuring oil subjects against acrylic backgrounds, frequently using white and blue hues, reflecting the influence of Noto’s pristine beach and the Ionian Sea. The project involved metalwork by Giuseppe Pisana and features products from various Italian designers and manufacturers, including Tagliabue Fratelli, Ceramiche Rometti, Azucena, FontanaArte, and Cassina. #NotoItaly #SergioFiorentino #CStudioArchitetti #HistoricRenovation #ArtistHomeStudio #ItalianDesign #MinimalistInterior #MidCenturyFurniture

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of Los Angeles-based designer Sarah Solis in transforming a Hancock Park home into a Mediterranean villa. The clients, a young artistic family in the entertainment industry, sought a home that would foster creativity and evoke a European vacation feel. Solis focused on restoring and enhancing the home's original Spanish architecture, which included features like exposed beams and arches that had been previously concealed. She also added more arches to maintain architectural integrity, particularly at the entrance and between rooms, aligning with the 1920s Spanish and Mediterranean home styles. A central aspect of Solis's design approach is storytelling, employing an intuitive method to styling. She created a cohesive yet vibrant home by blending rich colors, various woods, velvets, metal, and tiles, aiming for both comfort and elegance. Solis emphasizes the significant role of texture in shaping a home's experience, illustrating this with the use of velvet red sofas for luxury and leather chairs for a formal touch in the dining area. The kitchen achieves casual elegance through a wood and metal combination, while the bedroom offers an ethereal feel with soft linens and subtle patterns. This combination of diverse materials allows the space to be suitable for both entertaining and relaxation. The designer notes that the strategic use of materials helps soften strong colors, as seen with the bright red velvet sofa in the living room, which makes it more luxurious and inviting. Artwork was another crucial element, selected to be visionary and reflective of the clients' artistic backgrounds. Solis sourced unique, original pieces for nearly every room, ensuring they harmonized with the existing color palettes and added depth. The goal was to create an inspiring yet livable space, avoiding a 'too precious' feel and promoting a sense of relaxation throughout. Given the home's California location, indoor-outdoor living was a priority. Solis capitalized on the abundant natural light by installing layered window treatments—woven shades topped with fabric—to control light levels while adding an organic touch. The master bathroom features a massive copper tub positioned to face the sunlight, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The patio area mirrors the interior's aesthetic, incorporating similar textures and tiles for the fountain and built-in bench, which was updated with Moroccan zellige, thus creating a serene and cohesive outdoor environment. Solis concludes that these small, thoughtful details are instrumental in elevating and enlivening the entire space. #MediterraneanDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SarahSolis #LuxuryLiving #TexturalDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArtisticHome

Violetta Ustayev, an interior designer, shares her journey of establishing Vi Design. After pursuing law and finance, a market collapse prompted her to follow her passion for design and fashion, leading her to start her own business. This decision was driven by a desire for autonomy and the ability to control her own growth trajectory. Vi Design operates as an interior design company that also functions as a retail store, offering wallpaper and fabric. The business further includes an upholstery shop and a recent partnership with a carpentry shop. Their primary focus is on mid to high-end interiors, often managing construction and delivering turnkey projects. A significant portion of their clientele comprises other designers who purchase materials and utilize Vi Design's custom carpentry and upholstery services. The distinguishing factor for Vi Design is its boutique approach, emphasizing personalized and hands-on client engagement, despite its diverse service offerings as a design retail store and fabricator. Ustayev's background in law, finance, and construction provides her with comprehensive project management skills. Ustayev expresses pride in being self-made, having built her business without working for other designers or holding a design degree. As a single mother of three young children, she manages her businesses while consistently seeking to scale and expand. She acknowledges that the path is not always easy, but views every obstacle as a learning opportunity for continuous growth. Her unwavering mindset is encapsulated by the phrase, "nothing can stop me." She recounts a significant challenge nearly two years prior when she broke her spine, an event that almost led to the loss of her business. However, her resilient outlook prevented her from giving up, instead prompting her to adapt and implement changes to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Ustayev's overarching goal is to convey her profound passion for her work and her gratitude for daily experiences, lessons, and challenges. She aims to demonstrate that it is possible to launch a business, raise a family, overcome adversity, and still achieve success. She emphasizes that her business operations are guided by sincerity and strong moral principles. When asked about an ideal itinerary for a visiting best friend, Ustayev suggests a relaxing week in Miami. This would primarily involve visiting the beach, potentially enjoying a boat ride, and dining at her favorite restaurants. The emphasis would be on relaxation and shared enjoyment, with an openness to tailor activities to her friend's interests. Ustayev dedicates her success and current position in life to her parents. They immigrated to America in the late 1980s with her and her brother, both under five years old, with limited financial resources and no English language proficiency. They worked tirelessly for minimal wages to sustain their family. Their persistent message to their children was the importance of hard work to achieve aspirations and the value of self-employment to avoid limitations imposed by others. Witnessing their struggles instilled in Ustayev at a young age the ambition to become her own boss, a goal she has successfully realized through her various businesses. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #WomenInBusiness #MiamiLife #SelfMade #OvercomingAdversity #PersonalGrowth

Mexican design firm Simon Hamui was commissioned to create bespoke furniture and millwork for AdH House, a minimalist two-story home in Mexico City designed by Francesc Rifé Studio. The home, located in the residential Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood, features a dark grey facade and black aluminum shutters. Simon Hamui's task was to complement the existing contemporary architecture and interior, which was finished with cream-colored walls, natural stone, and wood surfaces, while also integrating the owners' art collection and amplifying their lifestyle. In the living room, Simon Hamui designed a custom coffee table and matching bench using honed, grand antique marble and starphire glass. These pieces are distinguished by sculptural solid brass legs and an integrated quartzite lamp that also serves as a support for the glass tabletop. The same quartzite used in the coffee table is repeated in the adjacent bar mirrors, and the aged brass detailing is also incorporated into the bar's base, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the space. A key architectural element in the dining room is a slatted screen divider. This divider features an aged brass frame, smoked glass, and thin wood slats, providing privacy for the dining area while still allowing natural light to penetrate. An aged eucalyptus wood console with a grey quartzite countertop and brass accents is seamlessly integrated into this room divider on the dining room side. The dining table mirrors these material choices with a stone top and removable smoked eucalyptus extensions, allowing for versatility in accommodating larger gatherings or serving as decorative consoles. The house also features a glass-walled, temperature-controlled wine cellar. Within this space, rectangular display cases made from starphire glass showcase wine bottles on inset satin aluminum racks, illuminated by integrated LED lighting. The design emphasizes a pure display of the bottles, arranged to create a rhythmic, tapestry-like visual element that enhances the exterior view and invites closer inspection. A Grigio Carnico marble table within the cellar provides a functional surface for small entertaining events. Responding to the evolving needs of the homeowners, a study was added after the home's initial completion, designed by Hamui in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. This office space is conceived as a functional wooden box, with walls and ceiling clad in eucalyptus. Micro-perforations and sound insulation were incorporated to ensure privacy and optimal working conditions. The study includes a floor-to-ceiling bookcase lined with suede leather and brass details, complemented by an angular, stainless steel chandelier by Barcelona designer Jaime Tresserra. In the family room, a large figured eucalyptus bookcase with brass bookstands and LED lighting is built into the wall behind the sofa. This bookcase displays a textured Jason Martin painting and antique atlases. On the opposite side of the room, a millwork unit houses a television and a desk, further demonstrating Hamui's comprehensive approach to integrated furniture design. #MexicoCity #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #MinimalistDesign #LuxuryInteriors #FrancescRifeStudio #SimonHamui #ResidentialDesign #BespokeMillwork

Leili Fatemi, a Bonita Springs-based interior designer, emphasizes originality and natural elements in her projects, informed by her Old World training and contemporary leanings. Her design philosophy views interior design as a blend of visual communication, human understanding, and psychological insights. Fatemi's approach integrates aesthetic creativity with a focus on mental well-being and physical comfort, treating design as an art form rooted in scientific principles. She incorporates mathematical ideals such as proportion, scale, contrast, and balance to conceive spaces, believing that the essence of an interior is found at the intersection of science, creativity, and human connection. Fatemi frequently integrates earthy elements into her designs, drawing inspiration from natural motifs like trees, wood, and water, which she believes possess timeless appeal. These organic elements are often presented with a contemporary flair; for example, walnut might be used as a striking 3D geometric wall treatment, or a gnarled wood console could be paired with a modern chrome-and-crystal chandelier. Her work extends beyond mere furniture selection, considering the entire space. She builds texture through 3D forms, luxurious materials, and artistic wall treatments, such as hexagonal mirrors or textured wallpaper that highlights natural views. Her goal is to create balanced environments using various forms, textures, patterns, and lines. Client preferences and lifestyles are central to Fatemi's design process. She customizes designs to reflect individual backgrounds, cultures, and emotional responses to colors, patterns, and spaces. For instance, she adapted an entire space for a very tall family by raising all elements, and for a female bodybuilder, she designed a contemporary space combining dark colors and robust textures with soft, curved furnishings to reflect strength and femininity. Collaboration with builders and architects from the project's inception is crucial for Fatemi, allowing her to design spaces that naturally align with homeowners' needs and leverage architectural features like large windows and high ceilings for natural light. Fatemi is known for incorporating unique architectural details tailored to each client. Examples include a series of cubes inspired by da Vinci's Vitruvian Man for a German couple, a bar with rectangular blue LEDs referencing stacked papers for a bachelor, and a custom geometric foyer rug for a Fort Myers client that seamlessly extends the floor's design. She aims to provide clients with one-of-a-kind elements that are not mass-produced, drawing inspiration from designers like Kelly Wearstler, who embraces experimentation and original designs. While Fatemi values experimentation, she believes in the timelessness of good design over fleeting trends, suggesting that eccentric motifs and colors be used sparingly or in easily replaceable elements like accent chairs or throw pillows. She also advocates for redefining luxury beyond superficial materials or brands, emphasizing intention, impact, originality, and the user's fit. Fatemi is optimistic about technology's role in design, from virtual modeling for client visualization to promoting sustainability through green and recycled materials. She believes design is fundamentally about creating solutions, beauty, functionality, and comfort with a creative and responsible approach. #InteriorDesign #BespokeDesign #BonitaSprings #LeiliFatemi #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalElements #SustainableDesign #ClientCollaboration #DesignInspiration

Zoie Aliado, founder of Zoie Brook Designs, discusses the motivations behind establishing her own interior design business. Her decision stemmed from a desire to combine her passion for design with extensive experience gained from working at established architecture and interior design firms. Aliado aimed to create a practice that offered a more personalized client experience, addressing what she perceived as gaps in the industry, such as a need for greater attention to detail, stronger client relationships, and a seamless integration of design and execution. Her vision for Zoie Brook Designs was to embody values of high-quality work, transparency, collaboration, and the creation of elevated yet livable spaces. Zoie Brook Designs specializes in high-end residential interior design, encompassing new builds, renovations, and curated furnishings. The studio distinguishes itself through its unique blend of architectural expertise and a refined, livable aesthetic, focusing on crafting homes that are not only beautiful but also highly functional and deeply personal to each client. Aliado expresses pride in the relationships fostered with clients and the trust they place in her firm. She recounts that starting her own company presented challenges, including risk-taking, managing multiple roles, and balancing creative endeavors with business operations. These obstacles were overcome through adaptability, reliance on a strong support network, and viewing every challenge as an integral part of the entrepreneurial process. A key lesson learned was the importance of authenticity, as clients are more responsive to work driven by passion and integrity. The article also provides a glimpse into Aliado's personal recommendations for experiencing Los Angeles, specifically the Westside, if a friend were visiting. The suggested itinerary includes coastal activities, starting with breakfast at Gjusta in Venice, followed by exploring Abbot Kinney for shopping and street art. Another day would feature a hike at Solstice Canyon in Malibu, lunch at Malibu Farm, and relaxation at El Matador Beach. A Santa Monica day would involve breakfast at Huckleberry, a visit to the Santa Monica Farmers Market, and a bike ride along the beach path to the Venice Pier. Evening plans include sunset cocktails at The Proper Hotel’s Calabra rooftop, dinner at Elephante, and a possible nightcap at Walley’s, with an alternative low-key evening at Hatchet Hall in Culver City. The Getty Villa is also recommended for its history, architecture, and ocean views, complemented by oysters and wine at Dudley’s Market. Aliado extends gratitude to various individuals who contributed to her journey. She acknowledges the mentors and colleagues who shared their expertise and encouraged her to trust her instincts. Special appreciation is given to early clients whose belief in her vision provided the confidence to launch her business. Finally, she credits her family and friends for their unwavering love, encouragement, and for serving as a constant source of grounding and inspiration. Contact information for Zoie Brook Designs, including their website, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Pinterest, is also provided. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #ResidentialDesign #HighEndDesign #ClientRelationships #LosAngeles #WestsideLA #TravelRecommendations

This article highlights how designer Suzanne Costa transformed four units in the Parkview at Cambier development, all sharing the same 3,900-plus-square-foot floor plan, into distinct living spaces tailored to each homeowner's unique taste. Costa's initial work involved selecting hand-poured Kinon Surface Design panels for cabinetry and Cambria quartz surfaces, among other high-end finishes. The subsequent challenge arose from the diverse preferences of the well-traveled and culturally astute clients, each desiring a personalized interior. The design process involved an artistic collaboration, with Costa working to integrate existing art collections and homeowner aesthetics into the uniform layouts. For units 201 and 202, she cataloged homeowners' art to inspire design motifs. For unit 301, Costa incorporated the client's appreciation for nature and local art, helping him build a collection of vibrant, biophilic works from Naples artists. Across all units, art served as a central theme, influencing material choices, color palettes, and the overall mood. The prevalence of white walls and a strong emphasis on lighting were consistent features, creating gallery-like settings. Custom kitchen cabinetry, designed by Marcus Jelley and inspired by Japanese pottery, provided a unifying element across the units, yet Costa's approach allowed for significant personalization. Unit 301, dubbed "Where Nature and Art Collide," features a top-floor design rooted in local Naples art, with pieces by Juan Carlos Collada, Tom Manziano, and Diane Whiting. Collada’s *Let the Sun Shine* greets guests in the foyer, while his sculptural totem blurs the lines between natural and man-made elements. The condo heavily utilizes wood, with dark tones like high-gloss rosewood adding a "rich, smoky opulence," contrasting with typical coastal light hues. A custom wine and bourbon bar with Cristallo quartzite, salmon Kravet chairs, and a Vanguard bed with Kelly Wearstler fabric contribute to a luxurious yet natural ambiance. The lanai patio extends this natural theme with a live-edge dining table and cedar ceiling details, reflecting Southwest Florida's sandy palette. Unit 202, titled "The Old World Goes Contemporary," presented the challenge of merging diverse elements from world-traveling owners, including Balinese carvings, Parisian oil paintings, and heirloom furniture, into a cohesive contemporary design. The great room blends a hand-woven Pakistani rug with a Kravet acrylic coffee table and a curved sofa. A stone fireplace displays Asian objets d’art and Murano glass sculptures. Costa meticulously staged the client’s global art collection, using elements like an intricately carved piece on tigerwood shelving and a sustainable fiber wallpaper. The Luxe Light & Home PIRELLI Chandelier 30 in the foyer exemplifies the focus on lighting to highlight artwork. The office combines Parisian oil paintings with an antique desk. The primary bedroom evokes Art Deco glamour with crystal pendant lighting, Spanish hand-embroidered Gianti drapery, and a Kravet Versailles velvet bed in turquoise blue, complementing gold-framed paintings, notably *Romeo and Juliet* from Azerbaijan. Finally, unit 201, a "Black-and-White and Bespoke All Over" design, caters to a Canadian homeowner's modern art and masculine aesthetic. This unit features extensive black wall coverings and large backdrops for a spectacular art collection, contrasted with white furnishings and finishes. The foyer immediately establishes this contrast with an ivory-white grand piano set against white-on-black abstract figurative works. The dining area includes black Phillip Jeffries wall coverings with a technicolor abstract expressionist painting by Arthur Potts. White cerused oak kitchen cabinets by Marcus Jelley and white fabric Barbara Barry chairs maintain the minimalist color scheme, while the painting adds dynamic flair. The bedroom introduces novel neutrals and rich mauve velvet drapery by Kravet. Costa collaborated with Toronto-based furniture designer David Powell to create custom swivel chairs for the bedroom, aligning with the client's lifestyle. Throughout the two-year project, Costa's bespoke detailing and deep understanding of her clients resulted in distinctly personalized spaces. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SuzanneCosta #LuxuryCondos #ArtIntegration #CustomInteriors #NaplesFlorida #ModernArt #GlobalInspiredDesign

Amalia Savu's residential interior design project, titled 'Within a Frame House,' is located in Vâlcea, Romania, and presents a sophisticated blend of contemporary minimalism and natural elements. The design prioritizes harmony with nature, making the surrounding landscape and an indoor tree central to the home's aesthetic. The project, conceived for a private client, aims to integrate the living space seamlessly with its exceptional natural setting through careful material selection, light manipulation, and proportional design. The minimalist approach, characterized by clean, contemporary lines, serves to emphasize the natural beauty visible through large window openings, which function as 'living paintings.' The interior design employs a palette of earthy tones, natural wood, and textured stone, creating a balance between visual tranquility and tactile richness. Throughout the open-plan kitchen, dining, and hallway areas, vertical wooden slats and monolithic surfaces contribute to a sense of rhythm and depth. These elements are strategically placed to define spaces while maintaining an open and fluid layout. Sculptural furniture pieces, chosen for their aesthetic appeal and functional purpose, complement the minimalist design. Integrated lighting solutions are utilized to highlight the architectural lines and enhance the overall spatial clarity, contributing to an ambiance that is both modern and inviting. A key feature of the 'Within a Frame House' is the inclusion of a tree housed within a glass cube at the core of the structure. This architectural decision reinforces the design concept of bringing nature indoors and fostering a constant connection between the inhabitants and their environment. The extensive use of large windows not only frames the external views but also allows ample natural light to flood the interiors, further blurring the lines between the inside and outside. This deliberate integration of natural light enhances the perception of space and contributes to the serene atmosphere. Amalia Savu, the architect behind the project, meticulously curated every detail to ensure that the design fulfilled both aesthetic and practical requirements. The selection of materials such as natural wood and stone was made not only for their inherent beauty but also for their ability to contribute to the desired contemporary yet warm environment. The architectural execution aligns with modern design values, focusing on understated luxury and functional elegance. The project exemplifies a design philosophy where the built environment respectfully interacts with and celebrates its natural context, offering a refined living experience tailored to the client's lifestyle. #AmaliaSavu #ResidentialDesign #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryMinimalism #NaturalMaterials #RomanianArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ModernHome #ArchitecturalLighting