In Uzbekistan, literary house museums are also monuments to interior design

This blog post details the interior design journey of a Kazakhstan apartment, designed by Aisha Adilshiyeva of IDA Design Mates. The project began with the client contacting Adilshiyeva via Instagram a year before acquiring the apartment, demonstrating a strong preference for her design aesthetic. The client eventually secured a property with extensive panoramic windows overlooking the Ishim River in Astana, which became a central inspiration for the interior's serene, shimmering palette. The design seamlessly blends contemporary elements with cultural and custom references. Initially, the apartment's architecture was almost perfect, save for a large load-bearing column near the entrance. To integrate this structural element fluidly, Adilshiyeva's team, including designers Moldir Samat and Zhanbota Aitaliyeva, conceived two arches leading into the living room. These indoor arches facilitate elegant transitions while preserving the open and airy ambiance. The living space incorporates warm woods and soft pastel colors to create a cozy and tranquil atmosphere. A significant focal point in the living room is a fireplace framed within arched molding. Adilshiyeva collaborated with mosaic artist Art Oskolok to create a custom surround featuring blue buntings and blooming poppies, designs inspired by local culture. This intricate mosaic, requiring over 100 hours of handcrafting, transformed the fireplace into a unique and meaningful artistic piece within the home. The overall material palette harmoniously combines hard and soft elements, such as wood, marble, plaster, and metals. The cool metallic accents are intentionally used to echo the shimmering reflections of the Ishim River visible from the apartment's panoramic windows. This design choice visually links the interior space with the natural environment outside, creating a sense of continuity. The entryway is treated as an extension of the light-filled living area, featuring statement pieces like the Vitra Wiggle Chair and the Ferm Living Oyster wall lamp. These are strategically placed near a wall clad in aged mirrors, which subtly reflect the living room and its panoramic view, enhancing the sense of openness. The entry hallway also serves as a connector to the bedrooms, where light fixtures of varying diameters connected by a thin plaster thread create a dynamic and sophisticated lighting scheme. The bedrooms offer a serene environment, and the main bathroom was expanded to create a suite-like experience. Walls are softened with decorative plaster, mimicking a suede-like effect, to promote tranquility. The dressing room elevates the elegance with harmonized elements such as cabinet fronts, a plaster-like wall sconce from Visual Comfort, bold marble, and a mirror. In the shower room, bespoke marble cladding, meticulously cut in four neutral tones, creates a luxurious yet calm space. The client reportedly finds the bathroom and shower to be her favorite places for relaxation. Personalization is evident throughout the home, extending beyond the riverside inspiration. Adilshiyeva incorporated custom, intentionally asymmetrical architectural molding with geometric and floral patterns on walls and ceilings, showcasing originality and avoiding repetition. The family's Kazakh heritage is subtly integrated, particularly in the living room, where a cabinet designed to hide the television features accordion doors hand-carved with a Shanyrak, a national symbol of family. These cultural references ground the contemporary design with deeper roots, fostering an eclectic and personal spirit. #InteriorDesign #KazakhstanApartment #EclecticStyle #RiversideHome #CustomDesign #CulturalMotifs #ModernInteriors #ArchDesign #MosaicArt #LightingDesign #BathroomDesign

In Siberia, interior designer Elena Rybalkina has completed the "Art House" project, a 1,615-square-foot residence designed to highlight the creative spirit of a family of artists. The home integrates an explosion of colors, textures, forms, and mixed-media art, challenging conventional perceptions of Siberian design. A key feature of the residence is its three substantial studio galleries, which are interconnected and serve multiple functions, including showcasing the owners' paintings and photographs, hosting parties, acting as a meeting space, and providing a quiet reading nook. Rybalkina emphasized mobility and variability in all components of the design, selecting interior items that are both comfortable for relaxation and resemble art objects themselves. The design strategy includes distinctive flooring choices. In the more traditional areas like the bedroom, kitchen, and living room, terrazzo flooring features a geometric design conceived by Rybalkina. The kitchen, despite its small size, makes a strong statement with matte black facades contrasting against a walnut backsplash. The living room takes a more avant-garde approach with glossy self-leveling floors that have had paint directly poured onto them, explicitly emphasizing the creative purpose of the space. This free-spirited painting motif extends into the ceramics studio, where paint was intentionally splattered onto the walls to create natural, whimsical color spots. The color palette is dominated by graphite and ultramarine, which are complemented by raw textures such as untouched concrete blocks and fragments of brickwork. These textural elements provide a rich background, allowing the furniture to stand out prominently. Rybalkina articulated that the diverse range of interiors is intended to foster liberation and creative activity, ultimately cultivating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a distinct "own world" for the residents. The project also focused on practical enhancements, with the initial step involving the expansion of windows to maximize natural light and airflow throughout the home. Each area of the house is thoughtfully designed to serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. For instance, the staircases are not merely transitional elements but are also designed to offer comfortable seating. The bedroom, while maintaining a more subdued anthracite tone, is enlivened by exaggerated forms, adding an artistic touch even to personal spaces. A neon slogan installed in the house encapsulates Rybalkina's design philosophy, serving as a motivation and instruction for the home's operation: "impressions of the environment, creativity without templates and restrictions, personal perception of reality, and personalization—all this is embedded in the interior." This slogan underscores the bespoke and artist-centric approach taken in the Art House, making it a unique and inspiring living environment tailored to its creative inhabitants. #SiberianDesign #ArtHouse #InteriorDesign #ElenaRybalkina #CreativeResidence #ArtStudios #TexturalInteriors #GeometricDesign #ModernLiving

This article presents a curated selection of ten residential interiors, meticulously designed to highlight and integrate significant art collections. It serves as part of the Dezeen Lookbooks series, offering visual inspiration for individuals interested in design. The featured homes range from minimalist, gallery-like spaces that provide a neutral backdrop for art, to more eclectic and busy environments where the art is woven into the overall aesthetic. Each example demonstrates unique approaches to displaying various forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and even bespoke furniture. The Former Artists Studio in the UK, transformed by Rodić Davidson Architects, showcases an eclectic mix of furniture and art within whitewashed brick walls and an open-plan layout, illuminated by a glass sloped roof. Alison Brooks Architects extended a Georgian farmhouse in the UK to create Windward House, featuring a double-height gallery space with niches specifically designed for particular art pieces, and a staircase integrating a mini-gallery of 100 small works. In Canada, Ali Budd Interiors designed Muskoka Cottage with pure white walls, stained wood floors, and wood-lined ceilings to serve as a backdrop for a client's art collection. Noteworthy pieces like Faye Toogood's Roly Poly chair and Paul Rousso's graphic art are strategically placed. John Wardle Architects renovated Kew Residence in Australia, his own home, incorporating Victorian ash on walls, ceilings, and floors to create a neutral setting for his collection of Japanese sculptures, ceramics, and vibrant artworks. Built-in shelving and cabinetry discreetly store collections without detracting from views. i29's Home for the Arts in the Netherlands displays an extensive art collection across two levels of a loft-style apartment. Double-height larch wood and grey HPL shelving conceal a staircase while housing books and sculptures, with grey resin floors providing a blank canvas. The Artery Residence in the US, designed by Hufft, was conceived around its owner's vast art collection, featuring expansive wall spaces for paintings, photography, and sculpture, complemented by specialized lighting and climate control systems akin to those found in art galleries. Stern McCafferty Architects renovated a 20th-century country home in Massachusetts, the Cambridge Residence, to better exhibit art. White matte walls with large baseboards and pale wood floors evoke a gallery aesthetic while maintaining country heritage. Casa Salvatori in Milan, Italy, by Elissa Ossino Studio, is situated in a 200-year-old palazzo and features marble and stone furnishings, sculptures, and artworks set against original rippled terrazzo floors. A green-stained wood-lined ceiling complements the stone palette and green-hued artworks, with woven wicker and brown butterfly chairs offering textural contrast. Magdalena Keck's Four Seasons Residence in Tribeca, Manhattan, is a two-bedroom home characterized by a minimal, monochromatic design. Its pared-back material palette, high ceilings, and large windows create a sophisticated, gallery-like environment for displaying art, softened by herringbone floors and a mix of vintage, contemporary, and custom furnishings. Finally, the Residence for Two Collectors in Chicago, US, by Wheeler Kearns Architects, is a penthouse apartment designed for an art collector couple. The open-plan space with walnut flooring functions both as a welcoming home and an event venue, showcasing a range of artworks, including a George Nakashima bench, Harry Bertoia sculptures, and Paul Evans furniture. #ArtFilledInteriors #HomeDesign #InteriorDecoration #ResidentialArchitecture #ArtCollectionDisplay #GalleryLikeHomes #ModernInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #DesignInspiration

The article showcases five homes that embody the Art Deco architectural and interior design style, highlighting its enduring appeal and luxurious aesthetic. Art Deco, which celebrates its centenary, is characterized by its streamlined forms, geometric patterns, rich materials, and modern elegance. The featured homes, located across India, demonstrate how this lavish style is maintained, restored, or reinterpreted in contemporary settings. One featured residence is Shirin Bharucha’s 2,500-square-foot apartment in a historic Art Deco building in Mumbai, overlooking the Oval Maidan. This apartment is a testament to Mumbai’s early urban planning and its embrace of Art Deco during the city's economic rise in the early 20th century. Bharucha, a heritage activist, has passionately worked to preserve the area's architectural integrity. Her home retains original features such as vibrant terrazzo flooring from Bharat Floorings & Tiles, showcasing a mix of colors and vertical lines that subtly guide the layout. Wood is used sparingly for decorative paneling, emphasizing the clean lines characteristic of Art Deco. The apartment’s spacious layout, encompassing three bedrooms, a drawing room, dining room, kitchen, and staff quarters, reflects the grandeur of the era. Another example is a bungalow in Kolkata, home to a multigenerational business family. Originally built with Feng Shui principles by a Chinese family, the home underwent a contemporary update while preserving its Art Deco identity. Pooja Bihani of Spaces and Design led the renovation, focusing on integrating modern elements without overshadowing the original style. Key Art Deco features, such as gracefully curved elevation projections, the original wooden staircase railing, and the entrance door, were preserved and seamlessly integrated with contemporary finishes. The ground floor, spanning 3,000 square feet, features an interactive layout with collapsible fluted glass doors, a monochromatic theme, and rich materials like marble and oak wood. A prominent artwork by Kumaresan adorns the living room, designed for large gatherings. The wooden staircase, with added marble inlay elements, serves as a striking blend of old and new. The article also presents a home in Delhi’s Golf Links, belonging to Madhu and Naresh Trehan, designed by Shonan Purie Trehan. This home is described as a personal narrative, incorporating Art Deco elements, intricate inlaid floors, handcrafted tiles, and unique artworks. It breaks away from traditional bourgeois aesthetics, offering a daring and unconventional design. The house is filled with natural light and color, reflecting the owners' memories and expressions. The design deconstructs the standard rectangular plot, creating a fluid space that dynamically connects the garden, patio, and pool with the interiors. The sculptural handmade brick exterior further exemplifies the artistic freedom and precise craftsmanship evident throughout the home. A Churchgate apartment in Mumbai, inherited by Manasvi Bachhav, principal designer of The Architecture Company (TAC), showcases the restoration of old-world charm. This 1,800-square-foot apartment, purchased by Bachhav's grandfather in 1955, is located in an Art Deco building near the Brabourne Cricket Ground, offering views of Malabar Hill and the Arabian Sea. The renovation aimed to revive the apartment's original character, which had been altered by previous ad hoc repairs. Bachhav focused on retaining the 'Mumbai' flavor, blending vintage elements with contemporary details, and incorporating global influences like tropical modernism, mid-century Scandinavian warmth, and Japanese minimalism. Restored features include the original 1950s terrazzo flooring, refinished Burma teak wood doors, and vintage brass hardware. Cherished pieces collected by Bachhav’s grandparents are also integrated into the design. Finally, an 18,000-square-foot mansion in Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills, owned by Rohit Reddy and designed by Vinita Chaitanya, channels the Jazz Era. Chaitanya transformed the newly built structure, seeing beyond the glass and concrete to infuse it with soul through layers of textures, patterns, and colors. She drew inspiration from a stunning Italian marble with gold and pink streaks, which evoked European palazzo vibes, leading her to pursue an Art Deco interior. Marble was extensively used around doors, as architraves, and in floor inlays near the staircase. Chaitanya brought in elements that conveyed a sense of history, embodying the geometry, symmetry, and elegance of the 1920s. She landscaped the internal courtyard, adorned sky-high walls with classic wallpaper, and embellished passageways with old-world pendants and doors with magnificent grillework, creating a seamless blend of past and present. The resulting home is a grand and deeply personal space, reflecting artistry and intentional design. #ArtDecoHomes #IndianArchitecture #JazzEraDesign #HeritagePreservation #InteriorDesign #MumbaiArtDeco #KolkataBungalow #DelhiHomeDesign #HyderabadMansion

This article highlights ten exceptional home libraries from around the globe, showcasing various innovative designs and extensive collections. The focus is on unique architectural features, the sheer volume of books, and the personal touch these spaces bring to a home. The article begins by presenting a private studio in Seattle, Washington, featuring a library with wall-length windows and a playful gold pole slide connecting it to a lofted hangout space. This design emphasizes both functionality and entertainment within the home. Another featured library is located in Ridgefield, Connecticut, belonging to inventor Jay Walker. This expansive 3,600-square-foot space houses over 30,000 books, maps, charts, and artwork, distributed across multiple staircases, underscoring its significant scale and comprehensive nature. In Costa Rica, a private backyard library designed by Gianni Botsford Architects offers its own separate entrance and deck, seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings and providing a secluded reading sanctuary. The article also delves into the libraries of prominent figures, such as fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld's Paris residence, where books are uniquely stacked horizontally in a floor-to-ceiling arrangement, creating a distinctive visual effect. George Lucas's Skywalker Ranch in Nicasio, California, is home to a research library distinguished by its magnificent glass ceiling dome, offering an inspiring and grand atmosphere for study and contemplation. Although not open to the public, it serves as a resource for filmmakers by appointment. In Zurich, Switzerland, design firm Ilai created a beautiful library for a private home that includes a strategically placed small window near an armchair. This allows occupants to gaze into their yard while taking a break from reading, blending indoor comfort with outdoor views. A creative solution to book storage is presented in a London library, where books are ingeniously integrated into a wooden staircase leading to a lofted bedroom. Designed by Levitate Architects, this staircase can accommodate approximately 2,000 volumes, maximizing space efficiency. The article further describes a two-flight library within an $18 million Manhattan townhouse, originally the Hans Hoffman Art School in the 1930s, highlighting its historical significance and vertical design. Richard Macksey, a professor at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, possesses one of Maryland's largest private book collections, with over 70,000 books and manuscripts, reflecting a profound commitment to scholarly pursuits within a personal residence. Finally, the article mentions writer Alberto Manguel's 30,000-volume library in his 15th-century Loire, France home, which inspired his book "The Library at Night," exploring the deeper meaning and impact of libraries. Each example illustrates diverse approaches to creating personalized and impressive literary spaces within residential settings. #HomeLibraries #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #BookCollections #LuxuryHomes #CreativeSpaces #ResidentialArchitecture #UniqueHomes

The article explores the transitional design style, which combines traditional and contemporary elements, in the context of the Pakistani Ambassador's residence. This eclectic approach to design is gaining popularity in residential and commercial spaces. The residence, built in 2007 as part of the Pakistani embassy complex, was designed by Indonesian architect Adhitya Sasongko in consultation with Pakistani architects. The house is an L-shaped, two-story structure connected to the embassy. The architectural inspiration for the residence draws from Islamic architecture, featuring mosaic-tiled round domes and geometrical patterns reminiscent of the Mughal era. A prominent round dome silhouette adorns the entrance facade. The interior's modern aesthetic is achieved through a beige and white color palette, which contributes to a bright ambiance. The layout centers around a large sitting area, which leads to a high-ceiling dining room and a guest room. The sitting area is conceptually divided into three islands and benefits from abundant natural light provided by a skylight. This space exemplifies the transitional eclectic interior style, showcasing a mix of Pakistani fine artworks alongside Indonesian and oriental-themed decorative items. Ambassador Mohammad Aqil Nadeem and Madame Tahsina Aqil, who host many social functions in the residence, have a significant influence on the interior. Madame Tahsina Aqil, with a background in art and an interest in interior design, personally undertook the interior decoration of the house, incorporating suggestions from her husband. She describes her decorating style as transitional eclectic but appreciates other styles like minimalist and modern designs. Her approach prioritizes comfort and visual appeal for occupants, ensuring ample space for movement within the house. The couple are art collectors, and many of the artworks displayed in the residence reflect the social, cultural, and political history of Pakistan. Notable pieces include a canvas print by the renowned artist Sadequain, known for his murals and calligraphy, and two pen-and-ink sketches by Pakistani painter Abrar. These art pieces contribute to a harmonious contrast within the home. For the Ambassador and Madame Aqil, successful home design balances comfort, elegance, and style. They carry meaningful decorative items, such as handmade Pakistani rugs, paintings by famous Pakistani artists, and pieces representing their heritage, as they move between diplomatic postings. The transitional eclectic design of the residence provides a distinctive and original character, proving practical for their diplomatic lifestyle, which requires frequent relocations. Madame Tahsina highlights how this style allows her to integrate furniture acquired from previous occupants, efficiently addressing the challenges of furnishing a new residence every three years. The design philosophy embraces versatility and adaptation, making it suitable for a transient yet distinguished diplomatic life. #TransitionalStyle #PakistaniResidence #InteriorDesign #IslamicArchitecture #EclecticDesign #ArtCollection #DiplomaticResidence #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDesign

This article details the transformation of a 925-square-foot apartment in Almaty, Kazakhstan, by designer Elina Mussakulova of sdelaemremont.kz. Initially, the apartment presented significant challenges, including an unpleasant odor due to faulty plumbing, and a long, uninteresting layout described as trailer-like. Mussakulova's primary goal was to make the space welcoming and visually appealing for the new owner, Raushan. Upon entering the renovated apartment, guests are now greeted by handcrafted Metlakh floor tiles and a retro GPO Bermuda record player in the foyer, replacing the previous issues. A major design hurdle involved load-bearing transoms in the living room and bedroom that were awkwardly placed. Instead of concealing them, the design team decided to highlight these architectural elements with plaster corbels. Similarly, the long, seismic corridor was transformed into a series of nicely framed passageways, effectively addressing what was once considered a significant aesthetic problem. The kitchen's design originated from a unique wallpaper by Zak + Fox featuring monkeys, chosen because it reminded Mussakulova of the client's active personality and curly red hair. The purple fruit depicted in the wallpaper inspired the color choice for the kitchen cabinets, establishing a personalized and vibrant theme. A notable decision involved connecting the bathroom directly to the kitchen to create a more spacious entry hall. To mitigate the issue of a toilet next to the oven, a small room was ingeniously built within the bathroom to discreetly house the toilet. The apartment also features resourceful storage solutions, such as a yellow freestanding cabinet found at a flea market. Although its wood was in poor condition, painting it gave it a new lease on life, demonstrating a creative approach to repurposing. The homeowner's preference for a soft bench in the kitchen over a narrow island with stools was adopted, contributing to the kitchen's intended function as a relaxed social gathering area rather than solely a cooking space. This client's infrequent cooking habits allowed for the use of a tiled countertop, an unconventional material choice that perfectly suited her lifestyle. A rolling library ladder was a non-negotiable element for the designer, incorporated to visually heighten the ceiling and add a whimsical touch. The project also involved collaborating with a plaster specialist for the first time, who created custom plaster corbels under the transoms, adding intricate detail. The article highlights the use of stained-glass doors, a new and highly successful feature for the design team, which they plan to incorporate into future projects. These doors, despite limited color options, were combined to create a cohesive and striking visual element. The design philosophy also emphasized unconventional art placement, such as positioning pictures in unexpected corners, to create more engaging and dynamic visual effects. Key products and suppliers mentioned include Anthropologie for handles, Original BTC for lighting, Tikkurila for wall paint, Finarte for rugs, Zak + Fox for wallpaper, and Zara Home for furniture, illustrating a mix of high-end and accessible design elements used in the project. #ApartmentDesign #InteriorRenovation #KazakhstanHome #ColorfulInteriors #StainedGlass #CreativeSolutions #HomeTours #SmallSpaceDesign

In a unique blend of interior design and historical commentary, Lithuanian design studio Gyva Grafika has reimagined a restaurant bathroom in Kaunas by transforming its walls into a homage to Soviet-era panel buildings. The project emerged from a challenge to redecorate a bathroom without removing existing brown tiles, which serendipitously resembled the facades that defined the urban landscapes of the former USSR. This innovative approach capitalizes on the growing phenomenon of Soviet nostalgia, which has seen a resurgence in various forms across the region. The design solution involved creating custom stickers from photographs of windows found on actual Soviet-style apartment blocks in Gyva Grafika founder Tadas Šimkus’s childhood neighborhood. These stickers were meticulously applied to the existing tiles, effectively turning each tile into a concrete panel complete with windows, and occasionally, glimpses of everyday life such as laundry hanging to dry. When arranged and stacked, these individual tiles collectively form the recognizable facade of a typical panel building, complete with the subtle imperfections and human elements like faces and cats “accidentally shot with a camera,” which Šimkus notes are an integral part of these structures. The inspiration for this distinctive design concept struck Šimkus during a moment of introspection, highlighting how everyday observations can lead to creative breakthroughs. The restaurant owners were reportedly very pleased with the outcome, as has been the clientele, who have shown their appreciation for the novel decor, sometimes even peeling off the stickers. The project's success and the significant attention it garnered have prompted Gyva Grafika to expand its offering, making these “Urban Soviet” designs available for purchase. The studio plans to sell both sticker versions and actual tiles with direct UV printing, allowing others to incorporate this nostalgic aesthetic into their own spaces. This initiative also carries a deeper, bittersweet significance. As many of these actual panel buildings are undergoing renovation or facing demolition due to EU-sponsored projects, the designer tiles serve as a means to preserve and commemorate a vanishing architectural style. It offers a “proper goodbye” to a ubiquitous form of housing that shaped the lives and memories of millions across the Eastern Bloc. The project transforms a mundane space into a conversation piece, blending art, architecture, and cultural memory, and demonstrating how design can both reflect and influence contemporary trends and historical remembrance. #SovietNostalgia #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalHomage #LithuanianDesign #PanelBuildings #GyvaGrafika #BathroomDecor #UrbanSoviet

Interior design has evolved significantly, driven by user needs and the desire to create specific experiences. The recent global pandemic highlighted the importance of thoughtfully designed living and working environments, leading to a focus on holistic designs that prioritize well-being. These designs often integrate elements like color, sensory experiences, technology, and natural components to promote health and comfort. Mexico, with its diverse climate and rich cultural landscape, offers unique opportunities for interior designers to incorporate these elements effectively. The country's natural attributes allow for innovative approaches to managing temperature, light quality, and wind currents within architectural spaces. This article specifically examines how books can function as a central design element in various Mexican interiors, transforming spaces beyond their traditional purpose. Books, in this context, are not merely functional items but integral components that contribute to the aesthetic and atmospheric qualities of a space. The article showcases a curated selection of 18 libraries and bookstores across Mexico, each demonstrating distinct design philosophies. These examples illustrate how architects and designers have creatively utilized books to define the character of these interiors, ranging from grand public libraries to intimate cafes and cultural centers. The focus is on the interplay between the physical presence of books and other design elements, such as materials, lighting, and spatial arrangement. Each featured project highlights innovative ways to display, store, and integrate books into the overall architectural scheme. This includes custom-built shelving units that become focal points, reading nooks that invite contemplation, and multi-functional spaces where books enhance the user experience. The article emphasizes how these designs foster an environment that sparks imagination and encourages engagement with literature, transforming simple rooms into vibrant cultural hubs. The Mexican context, with its unique architectural styles and natural resources, provides a rich backdrop for these design explorations, showcasing how local influences can shape the integration of books into interior spaces. By presenting these 18 examples, the article aims to inspire and inform readers about the potential of books as powerful design tools. It underscores that beyond their intellectual value, books possess a tangible quality that can be leveraged to create visually appealing and emotionally resonant interiors. The designs demonstrate a range of approaches, from minimalist and modern to traditional and elaborate, reflecting the diverse architectural landscape of Mexico. Ultimately, the article suggests that the thoughtful incorporation of books can elevate an interior space, imbuing it with a sense of warmth, intellectual stimulation, and cultural richness, while also catering to the evolving needs and well-being of its users. #MexicanInteriors #BookDesign #InteriorArchitecture #LibraryDesign #BookstoreDesign #ArchitecturalElements #CulturalSpaces #DesignInnovation

Anastasia Mirzoyan, founder of Kyiv design firm Anastasia Mirzoyan Bureau, addresses the modern need for individualized housing that meets residents' contemporary lifestyles. Her recent project involves a 650-square-foot apartment within a house built in 1874 in Kyiv's historic district, designed for a client who identifies as a 'citizen of the world' and appreciates both the Bauhaus aesthetic and Kyiv's vibrant art scene. The client sought a flexible home base that could accommodate a minimalist lifestyle, described as one that 'should fit into a backpack.' Mirzoyan's design strategy involves a primary bisection of the apartment into distinct public and private zones. Further division within these zones is achieved through strategic furnishing and custom installations. For instance, open shelving units are custom-designed to separate the sleeping area from the social spaces, optimizing the apartment's compact footprint. A significant feature is a monumental green marble island that serves multiple functions: it discretely separates the kitchen from the bathing area and cleverly conceals all necessary appliances, contributing to a streamlined and uncluttered aesthetic. In homage to the apartment's historical context, Mirzoyan intentionally left certain enclosing structures exposed to showcase the original brickwork. This decision integrates the apartment's past with its modern design, creating a dialogue between old and new. The central element of the home is a custom wood table, positioned in the apartment's core. This versatile piece functions as a hub for various activities, including socializing, working, and dining, embodying a modern approach to multi-functional living spaces. Throughout the apartment, the design incorporates a blend of vintage and contemporary furniture and lighting. A vintage sofa is illuminated by a Muuto floor lamp, while a custom bed by Woodwerk is complemented by a Hay lamp on a Muuto table. The dining area features an &tradition; pendant light hanging above the custom table, which is paired with chairs by Enea. Artistic elements are also present, with a painting by Masha Reva adorning the dining area wall, near a rug by Massimo Copenhagen. The kitchen cabinetry is custom-made by UA Makers, reinforcing the bespoke nature of the design. The use of distinctive materials further enhances the aesthetic. The green marble island, sourced from Guatemala, acts as a focal point, providing both visual interest and practical utility. Graphic floor tiles by Topcer are used in certain areas, adding a modern touch, while green tiling by Detiles Mosaic Tiles define the powder room, maintaining a cohesive color palette and luxurious feel. The overall design successfully marries the client's desire for a Bauhaus-inspired, minimalist, and adaptable living space with the historical character of the building, creating a contemporary yet respectful renovation. #BauhausAesthetic #ApartmentDesign #KyivArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #InteriorRenovation #CustomFurniture #HistoricPreservation

This article offers a virtual tour of 14 spectacular homes belonging to renowned artists and architects around the world. These residences, usually open to the public but now virtually accessible, provide a glimpse into the personal spaces and creative environments that shaped these influential figures. The article highlights unique architectural styles, interior designs, and personal touches that reflect each artist's personality and work. The tour begins with Frederic Church's Olana in New York's Hudson Valley, a 19th-century landscape painter's home that blends Victorian and Middle Eastern motifs. Oscar Niemeyer's Casas das Canoas in Rio de Janeiro showcases his signature curves and reinforced concrete, with organically positioned boulders integrated into the design. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin in rural Wisconsin is described as his architectural autobiography, an 800-acre estate that is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Philip Johnson’s Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut, features wraparound windows designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape, a meticulously sculpted environment inspired by a 17th-century painting. Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell’s Charleston House in Sussex, United Kingdom, embodies bohemian charm with hand-painted cupboard doors, patchwork chintz curtains, and stenciled paisley walls, complemented by a vibrant garden. Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul in Mexico City, the site of her birth, death, and many years of her life, is a cobalt-washed residence with chartreuse floors and bright white walls, showcasing local folk art, handmade ceramics, and pre-Columbian sculptures. Auguste Rodin’s La Villa des Brillants in Meudon, France, served as his workshop, business place, and home, filled with dazzling white sculptures. Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner’s East Hampton home has remained untouched since Krasner’s death, featuring paint-splashed floors in the studio and an eclectic interior with a broken anchor and Krasner’s seashell collection. Georgia O’Keeffe’s home and studio in Abiquiu, New Mexico, radiates natural light and includes surprises like a rattlesnake skeleton, along with an extensive potager garden. Clementine Hunter’s modest cabin at Melrose Plantation in Louisiana showcases her prolific artistry, with thousands of paintings depicting daily life. Frederic Church's Olana, a Persian-inspired fortress, is rich with hues of mustard, cherry, and clay, lavishly draped in Turkish rugs and ornate frames. Jim Thompson’s teak Thai-style home in Bangkok, though not an artist's own work, houses an extraordinary collection of traditional Thai art. Sam Maloof’s 1952 California ranch-style home, relocated to Pomona, features treehouse vibes with redwood walls, a hand-carved spiral staircase, and whimsical stained-glass windows. Irma Stern’s The Firs in Cape Town, South Africa, is a colorful collage of portraits and tribal artifacts, painted in mint green, sunny yellow, and and vivid corals. Finally, Claude Monet’s home in Giverny, France, is famous for its poetic interior with a stream of copper pots in the kitchen and lemony yellow dining room, alongside his collection of Japanese art. #ArtistHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #CulturalTourism #VirtualTours #ArtHistory #HistoricHomes #TravelInspiration #GlobalArt

This article explores the aesthetic and atmospheric qualities of some of the world's most beautiful public and private libraries, offering inspiration for incorporating similar design elements into home decor. It emphasizes that libraries, in an era dominated by digital interaction, represent calm, knowledge, and sanctuary, evoking feelings of slowing down and connecting with storytelling. Interior designers Kunal Trehan and Giedre Gabrenaite highlight how libraries' timeless romanticism, visual depth, warmth, and texture contrast with sterile minimalism, making them appealing models for residential interiors. They point out design details such as floor-to-ceiling shelving, integrated lighting, rich timber finishes, and soft, layered textures that lend a sense of permanence and sophistication. The article showcases various libraries, each illustrating different design principles. The Reformed church library in Hungary exemplifies bold color blocking with green shades against natural wood and warm lighting. The John Rylands Library in Manchester demonstrates the impact of soft, atmospheric lighting, with experts recommending layered lighting, warm white bulbs, and dimmer switches for home application. The integration of plants, both hanging and potted, is suggested to liven up spaces, drawing inspiration from libraries that might otherwise appear staid. The Anna Amalia Library in Germany presents a bright, classical, and even glitzy design, suggesting the use of gold-bound books for a similar effect without extensive metallic commitment. The Waldsassen Abbey Library, a blend of classical architecture and bold colors, encourages playful and experimental design in less frequently used rooms like home offices, advocating for antique and second-hand finds to create unique looks. Modern elements are also discussed, such as the use of ladders or sliding rails for drama and function in open-plan areas, and the contemporary design of the Tianjin Binhai Library, which features creative, non-traditional bookshelves. For those starting small, a 'wall of books' is recommended, mixing horizontal and vertical stacks with decorative objects. The importance of location for a reading nook is stressed, advising placement away from high-traffic areas for peace and immersion. The elegant arches of the Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève in Paris inspire Art Deco themes through printed textiles and stained glass. Smart redesigns of underused alcoves into intimate reading spaces are encouraged, using high-backed armchairs, canopies, or curtains to create a sense of retreat. The article also covers tactile finishing touches, suggesting the layering of velvets, knits, wool, and soft area rugs to emulate the rich textures found in libraries. The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading inspires dramatic combinations of dark woods and rich shades for showcasing vintage books. Traditional deep greens, navies, and burgundies are noted for their cocooning effect, perfect for reading. The concept of a library as a storytelling space, reflecting personal interests through curated books and objets d'art, is introduced. For small reading nooks, comfort is paramount, with recommendations for deep, supportive chairs, warm-toned lighting, and surrounding shelving or side tables. Minimalism, when executed with good lighting and appropriate colors, can also create a tailored library space. Practical advice includes choosing durable upholstery for chairs, incorporating ottomans for added comfort, and utilizing natural light or additional lamps in darker corners. Finally, the article advocates for perfectly styled shelves that tell a personal story by mixing books with cherished accessories and embracing an eclectic arrangement. The addition of candles and bronze or gold finishes can evoke warmth and old-world glamour, while freestanding shelves offer visual division and storage. The overarching theme is the creation of a tranquil, tech-free sanctuary, emphasizing that even a few well-chosen details can transform a corner into a treasured space for reading and reflection, as exemplified by the bright and serene George Peabody Library. #HomeDecor #LibraryDesign #ReadingNook #InteriorDesign #ClassicalArchitecture #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #AtmosphericLighting #BookshelfStyling #CozySpaces

Art Deco, a style characterized by geometric patterns, animal prints, and glitz, continues to captivate over a century after its inception. While genuine Art Deco residences from the 1920s and '30s are rare, many individuals seek to infuse this historic style into modern homes. This article showcases seven distinctive homes that either preserve original Art Deco elements or are inspired by its opulent aesthetic. One featured residence is designer Wesley Moon's Park Avenue apartment, where gilded wall panels, reminiscent of Paris’s Restaurant Le Gabriel, utilize customized wallpaper to create a delicate and neutral backdrop for salon-style art. Moon’s approach involves reinterpreting classical elements for contemporary times, as seen in a marble fireplace mantel embossed with python scales and turquoise molding, a collaboration with Cocobolo gallery director Benjamin Wiener. The apartment blends Old World grandeur with modern sensibilities. In Melbourne, interior designer Greg Natale transformed a 4,000-square-foot penthouse into a lavish space inspired by the owners' luxury watch and jewelry business. Natale infused the formerly minimalist apartment with jewel tones, particularly pink and maroon, creating a grand entrance with mirrored panels and arches. Sculptural Kelly Wearstler lights and a postmodern Art Deco rug further enhance the glamorous and sultry ambiance, reflecting both the owners' and Natale's love for luxury. Washington, D.C.-based interior designer Lorna Gross reimagined an 1870 row house in Georgetown, drawing inspiration from the golden age of travel and the Orient Express. The client, a writer and historian, desired a home that evoked the feel of a bespoke train car. Gross installed antique furnishings and lighting from the 1930s on the first level, creating an Art Deco-period atmosphere in the long and narrow space. Antique chandeliers were re-envisioned, and wall coverings provided a warm setting for a mix of antique and contemporary pieces. In a New York City high-rise, designer Alexander Doherty and architect Danielle Albert undertook a dramatic renovation of a top-floor unit. To achieve a unique and refined interior, they reworked the layout, extended the living space, and increased ceiling height by relocating ductwork. A lake-like depression in the ceiling, covered in 24-carat gold leaf, adds glimmer and enlarges the room. Doherty selected Art Deco and modernist pieces from Paris galleries and international auction houses to furnish the space, creating a style that complements the contemporary glass structure. A Dublin home, designed by LyonsKelly, transforms an unassuming 1930s semi-detached house into a spacious, arching gallery. The design firm created a unified architectural and interior vision, resulting in a three-story house with a basement. The procession of rooms on the ground floor, with formal areas at the front and family spaces overlooking the garden, embodies an Art Deco spirit while maintaining a timeless appeal. Celebrity chef turned interior designer Travis London found his ideal home in a 1940 Miami town house. The property featured pristine original Art Deco details, including a fireplace, travertine floors, and interior arches. London embraced the home's character, using it as a canvas for self-expression and a showcase for his design business, Studio London Co. The dining area, for instance, features Jonathan Adler chairs in pink velvet around a brass Boca do Lobo table, exemplifying a chic and grown-up aesthetic. Finally, a Chicago co-op in a prestigious 1920s building underwent a significant transformation by Jessica LaGrange. Moving away from its dated decor, LaGrange guided the design with the building's history, creating a high-contrast home. A custom terrazzo-and-bronze circular design, inlaid in the foyer, serves as a focal point, radiating like a sunburst and setting an Art Deco-inspired yet exceedingly modern tone for the art-collecting couple's pied-à-terre. #ArtDeco #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalRenovation #DesignInspiration #ModernArtDeco #HistoricHomes #GlamorousInteriors

This article explores a collection of the world's most impressive and visually stunning ceilings, highlighting the architectural and artistic mastery involved in their creation across various cultures and historical periods. It begins with the Abdulaziz Khan Madrassah in Uzbekistan, setting the stage for a journey through diverse examples of ceiling art. The Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul, Turkey, showcases elaborate decorative ceilings, particularly within its exquisitely tiled harem, reflecting Ottoman grandeur from the 15th century. In Florence, Italy, the Duomo features Giorgio Vasari's frescoes of the Last Judgement, completed by Federico Zuccari, filling the interior of Brunelleschi's mighty cupola and offering divine views from above. Moving to modern artistry, The Bellagio in Las Vegas, USA, features Dale Chihuly's "Fiori di Como," an installation of over 2,000 hand-blown glass flowers inspired by Italian meadows, blooming above the hotel's lobby. The Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann in France boasts a striking Art Nouveau dome built in 1912 by Jacques Gruber, featuring Neo-Byzantine stained glass windows. In New York, USA, the Westfield World Trade Center's Oculus, designed by Santiago Calatrava, creates a light-filled central space, with a skylight designed to align with the sun every September 11th. York Minster in the UK presents an incredible feat of medieval engineering with the elaborate ribbed wooden roof of its Chapter House, alongside its renowned stained glass. El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, USA, a restored movie palace from 1926, features a grand gold-metal leaf proscenium ceiling in its East Indian auditorium, now operated by the Walt Disney Company. The early 17th-century Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, impresses with its fine blue İznik tiles and dazzling stained glass in its semi-domes and central domes. Rome, Italy, is home to The Pantheon, a colossal and ancient dome constructed in AD 125 by Emperor Hadrian, notable as the largest unreinforced concrete dome globally, featuring a central oculus. Melbourne, Australia's 333 Collins building reveals a stunning entrance hall within an old banking chamber, featuring an octagonal dome and barrel-vaulted ceiling. The Vatican Museum's Gallery of Maps in Vatican City displays exquisite painted topographical maps with frescoes illustrating stories from the depicted lands. In Chicago, USA, the Chicago Cultural Centre houses the world's largest Tiffany glass dome, a 38-foot diameter masterpiece made of 30,000 pieces of glass. Ottawa, Canada's Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, built in the 1840s, features heavenly indigo-coloured vaulted ceilings adorned with golden stars. St. Stephen's Basilica in Budapest, Hungary, showcases a gleaming dome with frescoes and gold gilding illuminated by natural light. Stockholm, Sweden's Stadion station in its subway system is famed for a glorious rainbow painted across its blue, cave-like walls. The Alhambra in Granada, Spain, particularly the Hall of the Two Sisters, exhibits intricate mocarabe or stalactite work on its ethereal ceiling. Beijing, China's Temple of Heaven, specifically the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, features an astonishing central dome with nine golden dragons carved into its roof. Siena Cathedral in Italy boasts the extravagant Piccolomini Library, adorned with gold, red, and blue rectangular ceilings and frescoes by Pinturicchio. London, UK, has the Andaz London Liverpool Street, housing a Grade II-listed Freemasons temple with an incredible blue-domed ceiling and gold zodiac detail. Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, an unfinished masterpiece, presents a dizzying, forest-like design of vast ceiling vaults that appear as branching trees. Rotterdam, Netherlands, hosts Markthal, featuring "Cornucopia," a gigantic and vibrant ceiling mural by Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam. San Diego International Airport, California, USA, showcases Jim Campbell's "The Journey," an undulating 700-foot-long ribbon of light made from 38,000 LED pendant lights. Bucharest, Romania's historic Romanian Athenaeum features a detailed fresco circling its huge dome, depicting scenes from Romanian history. The Abdulaziz Khan Madrassah in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, is celebrated for its highly decorative facade and porch with beautiful blue, yellow, turquoise, pink, and green tiles. Vienna, Austria's Austrian National Library, the State Hall of the biggest baroque library, is crowned by a splendid baroque dome adorned with frescoes by Daniel Gran. The British Museum in London, UK, features the vast glass and steel roof of the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court, designed by Foster and Partners, along with the illustrious 19th-century Reading Room's elegant dome. Grand Central Station in New York, USA, is known for its glorious teal-colored astronomical ceiling, complete with golden constellation signs and a historical patch showing grime accumulation. Prague, Czechia's National Museum of Prague, a colossal Neo-Renaissance structure, is adorned with elaborate ceiling frescoes in its entrance hall. Isfahan, Iran's Chehel Sotoun Palace, a 17th-century pleasure pavilion, features walls and arched ceilings awash with gold, mirrors, and frescoes. Valletta, Malta's St. John's Co-Cathedral, a 16th-century church, showcases opulent walls and ceilings with intricate carvings, gold gilding, and grandiose paintings, including a rare Caravaggio. Finally, the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, home to Michelangelo's masterpiece, is probably the most famous painted ceiling in the world, stunning in its beauty and symbolism. The Hall of Mirrors in the Palace of Versailles, France, is lined with 357 mirrors and emblazoned with epic paintings by Charles le Brun across its vaulted roof, showcasing the might of France. The article collectively demonstrates the global diversity and historical significance of ceiling art and architecture, urging viewers to look up and appreciate these often-overlooked wonders. It provides a global tour of architectural and artistic marvels, emphasizing the intricate details and stories embedded in these elevated canvases. #ArchitecturalWonders #CeilingArt #GlobalTravel #HistoricalLandmarks #InteriorDesign #ArtHistory #CulturalHeritage #EuropeanArchitecture #AsianArchitecture

In an Almaty, Kazakhstan, apartment, interior designer Elina Mussakulova faced the challenge of transforming an initially open space into a functional home with distinct living areas, despite the constraint of having only three large windows located on one side of the apartment. Her clients, Erzhan and Nazym, desired a living room, kitchen, home office, two bedrooms, and two bathrooms. A significant design hurdle was a structural column that Mussakulova proposed to clad in mirrors. The clients were initially hesitant, concerned it might resemble the mirrored pillars often found in Kazakh restaurants, which are typically associated with large event venues. Mussakulova, cofounder of Sdelaemremont.kz Interior Bureau, eventually convinced them, explaining that mirrors could seamlessly integrate objects into the interior. To avoid the restaurant aesthetic, she designed the column with long, rectangular reflective panels, making it appear sculptural rather than an eyesore. The apartment's original layout presented an even greater challenge due to the limited natural light sources. Mussakulova and her team spent weeks contemplating the optimal arrangement to ensure light penetrated all necessary rooms. The solution was to combine the office and cooking zone, creating an enfilade layout where rooms are arranged in a row with aligned doorways. This design allows light to flow through the apartment, maintaining an airy feel, and also provides a degree of separation between the workspace and the living area, preventing disturbances. The designer's attention to detail extended to the doors, where she emphasized maximizing the apartment's ceiling height. She incorporated elaborate crown detailing above doorways, such as the one leading to the kitchen, to visually enhance the room's vertical dimension. For the kitchen, Nazym, despite not being an avid cook, expressed a desire for a beautiful, separate space that would mask noises and odors and inspire her to cook. Mussakulova delivered a kitchen designed for culinary experimentation, emphasizing both aesthetics and functionality. The apartment's color scheme was inspired by an unexpected observation: Mussakulova noticed how striking her husband looked in pale green jeans and a sky-colored shirt against their beige garage. This led to a palette featuring custom sage green kitchen doors, buttery yellow (Sherwin-Williams' Naturel) in the bathrooms, and baby blue (Sherwin-Williams' Niebla Azul) on the ceilings. Spanish Volakas marble on the bathroom floors and shelving niches harmoniously blended these cool and warm tones. The main bedroom offered a slight departure from the overall color scheme, featuring striped wallpaper from Ferm Living. Mussakulova, who admits orange is her favorite color, toned down the patterned walls with white bedding and mustard-tinged curtains discreetly tucked behind classical molding. The bathrooms incorporate curved vanity mirrors and wall tiles by Kerama Marazzi, with vanity hardware from Anthropologie and sinks from Vilbo. The apartment's location in the upper section of Almaty, next to a mountain river, provides a natural, calming soundscape, eliminating the need for artificial white noise. Overall, the project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to interior design, addressing architectural constraints and client preferences to create a harmonious and functional living space. The innovative use of mirrors, the enfilade layout to maximize light, and a personalized color palette contribute to a unique and inviting home environment that blends modern aesthetics with practical considerations, proving that design challenges can be transformed into distinctive features. #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #KazakhstanApartment #StructuralColumn #MirroredDesign #EnfiladeLayout #ColorPalette #ModernLiving #DesignChallenges

The personal home library, once associated with scholarly figures, has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from a mere decorative element to a central and functional space in contemporary homes. This shift is particularly evident in the context of increased time spent at home, where individuals seek refuge, inspiration, and a sense of intellectual grounding. Historically, home libraries were often seen as a place for quiet contemplation, offering a stark contrast to the modern digital world. However, recent trends have highlighted the library's role in conveying intellectual prowess, especially with the rise of remote work and virtual meetings, where the backdrop of a well-stocked bookshelf can subtly communicate a person's intellectual standing. The article discusses the evolution of design trends surrounding home libraries. Initially, there was a trend towards aesthetic over substance, with practices like color-coding books or purchasing ready-made collections by the linear foot to create an illusion of being well-read. However, this superficial approach is now being challenged. Interior designers and homeowners are increasingly moving away from purely decorative arrangements, recognizing that the true value of a library lies in its ability to offer solace, inspiration, and a connection to knowledge. The current emphasis is on creating a space that feels personal, warm, and inviting, encouraging deeper engagement with its contents rather than just serving as a visual prop. This shift reflects a desire for authenticity and meaning in home design, where functional beauty takes precedence over fleeting aesthetic fads. Prominent interior designers are responding to this demand by crafting library spaces that provide a sanctuary from the external world. These designers emphasize the importance of creating an environment that fosters a sense of calm and disconnection from daily stressors. Techniques such as wrapping libraries in oak paneling or fabric are employed to achieve warmth and visual separation, contributing to an immersive and comforting atmosphere. The focus is on tactile and sensory experiences that encourage prolonged engagement with books and other personal artifacts. This approach moves beyond the traditional stereotype of a library and redefines it as a vital component of holistic home design, catering to both intellectual and emotional well-being. The essence of the modern home library is not about displaying wealth or intellect, but rather about creating a personal haven filled with meaningful objects that offer respite and inspiration. #HomeLibrary #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #PersonalSpace #DesignEvolution #BookcaseDesign #RemoteWork #SanctuarySpaces