Interior Design Studio Simon Hamui Opens its Doors in Aspen

The Sonoma-based interior design firm Hommeboys, led by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, has opened a new studio and launched three new capsule collections for their furniture line, Haus of Hommeboys. The firm is known for its thoughtful design approach and hands-on craftsmanship, blending classic Wine Country aesthetics with a modern, refreshing twist. Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier, who have been married since 2019, have previously garnered acclaim for their designs in projects such as Healdsburg’s Marine Layer tasting room and Sonoma’s Valley Bar + Bottle restaurant. The new studio, which also houses a woodshop and cabinetry studio, is situated just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma. This expansion represents a significant step for the Hommeboys, fulfilling a long-held ambition to establish their own showroom. Mutter-Rottmayer expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the venture, acknowledging the risk involved in showcasing their unique design vision to a wider audience, but emphasizing their consistent desire for a dedicated space. The Hommeboys’ design philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on mixing materials and incorporating organic and natural elements. They experiment with various shapes in plaster, stone, and wood, aiming for a look that is both earthy and deeply connected to the Californian landscape. This approach is reflected in their furniture line, which features organic and natural materials. One of their new capsule collections for Haus of Hommeboys draws inspiration from rustic themes. This collection includes dark, ebony-stained, hand-notched cedar furniture, designed to evoke a raw, rustic, and edgy feel. The shapes within this collection are described as anthropomorphized, influenced by the golden hills of California. The design process at Hommeboys is driven by creativity and a desire to have fun. Alex Mutter-Rottmayer highlighted an instance where green velvet from a photo shoot was spontaneously used to cover a bedroom’s walls, illustrating their adaptive and playful approach to design. This method emphasizes utilizing available resources and embracing unexpected inspirations to shape their distinctive interiors. #InteriorDesign #Sonoma #DesignStudio #FurnitureDesign #HausOfHommeboys #WineCountryDesign #OrganicDesign #Craftsmanship

A 1960s Aspen residence has undergone a significant transformation, moving away from traditional Rocky Mountain ski chalet aesthetics towards a contemporary design influenced by minimalist Japanese architecture and crisp American modernism. This extensive revamp was initiated by a young family relocating from Los Angeles to Aspen in late 2024. The family collaborated with Alexander Design, an interior design firm known for its context-driven approach, to create a home that reflects their lifestyle and integrates with the surrounding mountain landscape. The 9,500-square-foot estate emphasizes comfort, art, and entertaining. The main floor features an open-plan dining area with a distinctive angular ceiling and a brass pendant light. The living room is distinguished by a custom-paneled brass fireplace, a design element also incorporated into the primary suite’s sitting area for more private settings. Large windows throughout the home are strategically placed to offer expansive views of Aspen Mountain, connecting the interiors with the natural environment. Material choices contribute significantly to the home's warm and inviting atmosphere. Oak floorboards and hand-plastered walls are combined with luxurious textures such as linen, shearling, velvet, and mohair. Beyond the primary suite, the residence includes five additional bedrooms designed to accommodate guests comfortably. A dedicated entertaining level enhances the home's capacity for social gatherings. This floor houses a media room, designed to evoke the ambiance of a 1970s conversation pit with oversized couches for lounging, and a game room centered around a billiards table. A mirrored bar is also included for preparing drinks. This renovation reflects a broader trend of professionals, particularly from the tech and energy sectors, moving to Colorado. The article highlights other notable properties in the Aspen area, including a modern, art-filled retreat designed by Olson Kundig for another family and the former home of MySpace CEO Michael Jones, which was recently listed for $22.4 million, a reduction from its initial price of $27 million. The article concludes by inviting readers to view a gallery of photos showcasing the revamped Aspen retreat. #Aspen #HomeDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorDesign #AlexanderDesign #MountainHome #ContemporaryArchitecture #Renovation

Holly Hunt, a significant figure in the interior design industry, has been inducted into the 2024 Interior Design Hall of Fame. Born in 1942 in San Angelo, Texas, Hunt initially pursued a career in fashion after majoring in English at Texas Tech. Her early professional experience included an executive training program at Foley’s, a Houston department store, and a role as an assistant buyer in millinery, followed by designing for a costume jewelry company in New York City in 1969. Hunt’s pivotal entry into the design world occurred in 1983 when she acquired R.J. Randolph, a struggling showroom at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. She rebranded it under her own name, HOLLY HUNT, and embarked on a mission to redefine the showroom experience. Her approach was revolutionary for its time, focusing on elevating customer service, improving product display, and introducing transparency in pricing—a practice that faced initial industry resistance. Hunt curated showrooms that resembled actual living spaces, integrating architectural details, artwork, and a diverse mix of products and styles. She championed established designers like Vladimir Kagan and Rose Tarlow, while also discovering and promoting emerging talents such as glass artist Alison Berger and furniture maker Christian Astuguevieille. The company’s sophisticated branding and marketing materials were developed with the avant-garde graphics studio Thirst, all united by a commitment to superior quality. A key collaboration in the early 1990s was with French furniture designer Christian Liaigre, whose sleek, monochromatic aesthetic resonated with Hunt’s own. Hunt’s company became instrumental in manufacturing and distributing Liaigre’s designs in the U.S., influencing American interior design with rich dark woods and creamy textiles. This partnership gained significant recognition when André Balazs's Mercer Hotel in Manhattan opened with Liaigre-designed interiors in 1997. Hunt’s strategic vision extended to expanding her showrooms, notably opening one in the nascent Miami Design District in 1998. Designed by architect Alison Spear, this showroom deviated from conventional layouts, offering a luxury boutique experience accessible to all. Another Manhattan showroom, intended to open in October 2001, was successfully launched just two months after the 9/11 events, demonstrating Hunt’s resilience and foresight. She navigated the 2008 recession by restructuring her company, which led to the creation of Holly Hunt Modern, a collection that surpassed the profitability of her previous collaborations. In 2014, Knoll acquired HOLLY HUNT for $110 million. Hunt remained CEO for two years, overseeing expansions in Dallas and Los Angeles, and continued as a consultant until 2019. During this period, she undertook design projects such as a penthouse at the Surf Club in Miami Beach. Currently, Hunt leads House of Hunt, a Chicago-based interior architecture and furniture studio, engaging in projects ranging from product design, like the Dune sofa for HOLLY HUNT, to comprehensive home renovations. Her career trajectory is marked by continuous evolution and an adaptability to challenges, consistently eschewing rigid business plans in favor of dynamic engagement. #HollyHunt #InteriorDesign #HallOfFame #FurnitureDesign #ShowroomInnovation #DesignEntrepreneur #LuxuryDesign #ChristianLiaigre #DesignIndustry

The article highlights Heather Chontos's collaboration with Layered, focusing on a new rug collection that translates her abstract paintings into hand-tufted rugs. The collection aims to capture the depth, color, and shape of Chontos's artwork, making her vibrant and expressive pieces accessible as functional home decor. These rugs are presented as a unique way to bring art into interior spaces, offering both visual appeal and tactile quality through their hand-tufted construction. Following this, the article introduces Clé's refreshed Architect's Palette tile collection. Clé has updated this classic collection by introducing a silkier matte glaze and expanding the available color palette. This refresh aims to provide designers and homeowners with more sophisticated and versatile options for tiling projects, emphasizing an earthy touch that enhances the collection's aesthetic and functional appeal for various architectural and interior applications. The ORA Lamp Series by Dana Harel, from White Dirt Studio, is also featured, showcasing sculptural lighting crafted from gypsum cement, muslin, and brass. These lamps are noted for their unique forms and the way they play with light and shadow, adding an artistic element to any room. The design combines diverse materials to create visually compelling and structurally interesting lighting fixtures. Fireclay Tile's new customizable bath fittings collection marks the company's expansion beyond surface materials. This new venture allows for personalized bath designs, giving customers more control over the aesthetics of their bathrooms. The collection emphasizes customization, enabling a cohesive and unique look when paired with Fireclay's extensive tile offerings. Molteni&C's Milan showroom and its top products are explored, conceived as the home of an astute collector. The showroom acts as a curated space displaying a range of high-end furniture and decor that reflects a sophisticated and eclectic taste. This segment offers a glimpse into the brand's design philosophy and product highlights. Visionnaire's new Italian-luxe showroom in London's Design District is also presented, inviting readers to explore its opulent offerings. The showroom is designed to exhibit Visionnaire's luxurious furniture and home accessories, providing a destination for high-end interior design inspiration and purchases. Lawson-Fenning's NoHo shop in New York, designed by Josh Grene, is highlighted for its glowing terra-cotta hues. The shop's design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, showcasing the brand's furniture and decor in a distinctive setting that emphasizes natural tones and materials. Ege and Snøhetta's collaboration on a carpet collection, Matter, is introduced, which reimagines flooring with generative flatweaves. This partnership combines innovative design with functional materiality, offering floor coverings that are both aesthetically engaging and practical for various commercial and residential applications. Finally, the article mentions several other product highlights, including an array of seating designs for a fall refresh, Carole Baijing’s understated furniture collection for Geiger, Slalom’s sustainable acoustic panels made with FSC-certified wood and recycled materials, Rop van Mierlo’s bold and shaggy rug series for CC-Tapis, Hem and Kusheda Mensah’s playful ottoman collaboration, Jiang Qiong Er’s poetic bamboo collection for Roche Bobois, Kevin Walz’s colorful collaboration with Ralph Pucci, Kriskadecor and Rafa Ortega’s nature-inspired Khronos collection with acoustic properties, and Jill Malek’s pastel glass mural panels inspired by natural phenomena. #InteriorDesign #ProductLaunch #HomeDecor #TileDesign #LightingDesign #FurnitureCollection #Showroom #TextileArt #AcousticPanels

This blog post details the collaborative design process behind a sophisticated ranch-style home nestled in the Aspen mountains, a project born from the vision of architect Cristof Eigelberger and interior designer Shawn Henderson. Eigelberger, whose designs are heavily influenced by his Colorado upbringing and love for the outdoors, aimed to create a residence that seamlessly integrates with its rustic, natural surroundings while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Henderson, an AD100 interior designer, brought an understated elegance to the interiors, ensuring warmth and preventing distraction from the architectural elements. The five-bedroom residence features expansive 30-foot openings that visually merge the interior spaces with the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains, including Ajax, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk. The living and dining areas are crowned by lofty, wood-vaulted ceilings, imbuing the spaces with both warmth and a sense of grandeur. An open-plan kitchen and family room incorporate a breakfast nook with a gabled glass end, designed to flood the entire area with natural light and offer uninterrupted mountain views. This seamless integration of indoor and outdoor elements is a hallmark of the home’s design. A central and distinctive feature of the residence is an open-air winter sculpture garden, conceptualized by Eigelberger. This intimate courtyard, positioned at the heart of the home, serves as a space where art and nature converge. The homeowners, avid art collectors, commissioned artist Will Ryman to create a site-specific sculpture for this space. Ryman’s contribution is a striking piece featuring soaring red and pink rose blossoms, crafted from fiberglass and stainless steel, reaching heights of 15 feet. Eigelberger describes this space as both dynamic and personal, offering a moment of stillness within the home and acting as a 'lantern' that allows filtered light to penetrate the surrounding rooms. Henderson's interior design approach focused on complementing Eigelberger’s architecture. He utilized organic textures and strong, simple forms, allowing the clients’ distinctive style to emerge. The color palette throughout the home is subdued, creating a serene environment that supports rather than competes with the architecture. Henderson, known for his unpretentious luxury, emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the interior design and the structural elements. He aimed to create inviting and visually stimulating environments that also provided cozy sanctuaries for the family. The homeowners, a New York couple with two children, now reside full-time in the 7,700-square-foot residence, which is situated on a five-acre property carved from a family ranch. The property boasts unobstructed views of all four Aspen mountains. The collaboration between Eigelberger and Henderson is highlighted by the clients as inspiring, noting a strong symbiotic relationship between the architect and designer from the project’s inception. The result is a home that balances the natural beauty of Aspen with a sophisticated, urbane interior sensibility, creating a unique mountain retreat. #AspenHome #RanchStyle #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #MountainViews #CristofEigelberger #ShawnHenderson #SculptureGarden #ArtIntegration #LuxuryLiving

Brittany Lyons, an Oak Cliff resident, transitioned from a full-time position as a chairman’s office coordinator at UT Southwestern Medical Center to a career in interior design. Despite holding a biology degree, Lyons’ passion for home interiors, cultivated since her childhood experiences with her parents flipping and building houses in Mississippi, eventually led her to establish Brittany Lyons Interiors. Her journey into professional interior design began in 2015 after she decorated her own home and shared photos on Instagram. A high school friend, impressed by her work, commissioned her for a home makeover, initiating a steady flow of clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. Upon moving to Dallas in 2016, Lyons strategically utilized social media platforms like Instagram, Houzz, and Pinterest to expand her client base. Her design philosophy centers on creating "peaceful, functional design" that promotes self-care for her clients, regardless of the project's scale, from large suburban residences to compact urban apartments. Lyons emphasizes that even small spaces deserve thoughtful design to enhance enjoyment and utility. She offers practical advice for smaller areas, such as using lighter paint colors, painting ceilings the same color as walls to create an illusion of space, incorporating mirrors, and avoiding oversized electronics. Running her business, Lyons faced the initial challenge of assembling a reliable team of contractors, painters, and installers who could deliver quality work at a reasonable cost and uphold her brand's integrity. She has since built a trusted crew, ensuring that anyone representing her company is professional and dependable. Lyons considers professional photography of her completed projects an indispensable asset for her business, as these images are crucial for her online marketing efforts and attract a significant portion of her clientele. Among her notable projects, Lyons recently completed a $1.5 million custom-built new home in Lucas, Texas, where her responsibilities included selecting every detail, from flooring and paint colors to stone and lighting fixtures, to personalize the space for her clients. She particularly enjoys redesigning bedrooms, considering them personal spaces where much can be done with elements like headboards, linens, and pillows to foster peaceful environments. Lyons highlights that many people misunderstand the value of hiring an interior designer, often viewing it as a luxury rather than a worthwhile investment. She clarifies that a designer's role extends far beyond aesthetic choices, encompassing intricate tasks such as coordinating deliveries, ensuring correct item reception, running errands for materials, advising on technical details like grout type and lighting placement, and managing contractors. Ultimately, Lyons asserts that the primary benefit of hiring a designer is saving clients considerable time and ensuring projects are executed correctly the first time, thus providing significant value for a fraction of the total renovation cost. She finds immense satisfaction in witnessing clients' reactions to their newly designed spaces and hearing how these transformations positively impact their lives, despite the inherent stresses of her profession. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HomeDecor #ResidentialDesign #DallasBusiness #CareerTransition

Dezeen Showroom has unveiled 14 new products this week, featuring a diverse range of furniture, lighting, and finishes for both commercial and residential projects. Among the highlights is the "Technicolour" textile collection by graphic designer Peter Saville for Danish brand Kvadrat. This collection draws inspiration from the colorful sprays used by farmers to mark sheep, translating this rustic aesthetic into a series of vibrant handwoven and robot-tufted rugs with color spots, iridescent curtains, and upholstery made from British sheep's wool. Saville describes the collection as bringing "the industry of the land, in raw form, into the living environment," likening it to "rural graffiti." Other notable product additions include the "Mouro" lamp, designed by Patricia Perez for Case Furniture. This portable and rechargeable table lamp, suitable for indoor and outdoor use, features a disc-shaped LED light that rotates 360 degrees, enclosed within a rectangular frame that doubles as a handle. Rainlight's "Phlox" collection for Okamura offers a comprehensive range of seating and tables, including conference chairs, lounge chairs, high stools, and five table shapes. The collection, characterized by its gently undulating silhouettes, is inspired by the petals of the night-blooming phlox flower. For storage solutions, Bruno Rainaldi's "Ptolomeo" bookshelf for Opinion Ciatti is designed to emulate the appearance of books stacked in high piles while providing structural stability. Named after the founder of the Library of Alexandria, this stainless steel shelf is available in black, white, or Corten effect lacquered finishes. Dedar introduces two new textile collections: "The Art of Jacquard" and a "Textile wall covering collection." The Jacquard collection features ultra-thin yarns woven directly into the fabric to create rich patterns, including tropical bird motifs, nature-inspired designs, bold graphics, and abstract floral landscapes. The wall covering collection, inspired by grand tapestries, includes four patterns, such as screen-printed illustrations on linen and classic weaves of jute and linen, aimed at creating a cozy atmosphere. The "Hymn" lamp by Hiroto Yoshizoe for Ambientec is another portable and durable lighting option for indoor and outdoor settings. It employs two magnets to create constant oscillations, producing a flickering effect reminiscent of a candle flame. GamFratesi's "Beetle Chair," available through Suite NY, has been re-released with four new upholstery options in neutral shades, alongside black or brass leg finishes. John Pawson's "Frame" dining table for Nikari, originally designed for his own farmhouse, is a minimalist piece made from responsibly sourced ash or oak wood with a natural oil finish, boasting a lifespan of over 100 years. Alegre Design's "Talent" desk for Actiu is a versatile, mobile, and height-adjustable workstation designed for educational and training environments, featuring a dry-erase worktop that functions as a whiteboard when folded. Finishes also see new additions with CDUK's expanded "Corian Solid Surface" range, now available in a broader spectrum of neutral and warm colors. This material is lauded for its hygienic, durable, abrasion-resistant, and fade-proof qualities, making it suitable for both commercial and residential applications. Forbo Flooring Systems introduces "Marmoleum Linear," a carbon-neutral, plant-based linoleum flooring made from linseed oil, waste wood flour, and jute, designed to mimic wood with irregular grey and neutral stripes. ADEX presents the "Habitat" tile collection, a sustainable ceramic option for interior walls made with 55 percent white-body ceramics for enhanced durability. Lastly, Decocer's "Crag" tiles offer a family of porcelain tiles that replicate the look of stone and weathered steel, suitable for indoor and outdoor walls and floors, characterized by an industrial aesthetic and textured matte finish. #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #LightingDesign #SustainableMaterials #DesignInnovation #HomeDecor #WorkplaceSolutions

This article details the design and execution of a mountainside residence in Aspen, Colorado, for an art-collecting couple, a project undertaken by CCY Architects in collaboration with David Kleinberg Design Associates. The house, situated on a 6-acre site straddling an aspen grove and forests, was conceived to harmoniously blend with its natural surroundings while providing an ideal backdrop for the clients' extensive art collection. The design process began with an unusual 90-foot entry path, atypical for Aspen homes due to heavy snowfall. This long approach was intentionally designed to feature a reflective PVD-coated stainless-steel sculpture by Swiss artist Not Vital, positioning it at the end of an allée of aspens. This strategic placement frames nature, draws visitors toward the entrance, and slows their pace before revealing a panoramic view, thereby establishing the home's dual focus on art and the outdoors from the outset. The architectural concept involves two distinct volumes of weathered steel and board-formed concrete, linked by a glass-walled corridor. The two-story main house accommodates the primary bedroom, living areas, and a downstairs rec room, while a single-story guest wing is positioned at the rear of the property. This layout allows nature to integrate seamlessly with the interior spaces and ensures that the 10,750-square-foot, five-bedroom residence can comfortably host anywhere from two to sixteen people. A significant challenge for the design team was the north-facing orientation of the site, which, while ideal for displaying art due to consistent light, posed difficulties for maximizing natural brightness in a vacation home. To counteract this, CCY Architects incorporated winged roofs equipped with south-facing clerestory windows to draw in additional light. Paradoxically, the pool and terrace were strategically placed on the north side of the house to capture the most sun. For the interiors, David Kleinberg Design Associates, a firm with prior experience working with the clients on other homes, implemented a restrained, neutral palette. This included black porcelain-tile flooring and white-oak ceilings and millwork. Triple-pane, full-height windows were installed to offer uninterrupted panoramic views of the valley and intimate glimpses of the surrounding woods. Kleinberg emphasized that the design ensures that “There’s always an event at the end of a room, where your eye is either directed at an art wall or a window wall.” The art collection, beyond the Not Vital sculpture, was curated in consultation with Kleinberg to integrate seamlessly into the home. Notable pieces include an Alexander Calder tapestry above a guest-room bed, a James Rosenquist painting at the top of the stairs, and a David Hockney drawing in the dining room that complements the mountain views. The dining area features three square oak tables that can be configured flexibly to accommodate different group sizes, highlighting the home's practical and livable aspects. The design successfully marries the grandeur of the art and views with interiors that are equally compelling, creating a multifaceted aesthetic experience. #ResidentialDesign #AspenArchitecture #CCYArchitects #DavidKleinbergDesignAssociates #ArtIntegration #MountainsideHome #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ColoradoLuxuryHomes

The pointONE showroom, designed by Suto Interior Architects, opened in early June in the heart of Budapest, Hungary. This project redefines traditional showroom concepts in the region by showcasing products distributed by Decorfloor within a dynamic and innovative interior design scheme. The showroom encompasses a substantial area of 300 square meters, completed in 2017, and features a sophisticated blend of materials and design elements. The interior design of the pointONE showroom was crafted to provide an immersive experience for visitors, moving beyond a simple display of products to create an environment where materials and design solutions are presented in a harmonious and engaging manner. Suto Interior Architects focused on integrating various textures, finishes, and functional zones to highlight the versatility and aesthetic appeal of Decorfloor's offerings. The project effectively transforms a conventional retail space into a creative hub that inspires clients and designers alike. The showroom's design incorporates a diverse range of high-quality materials and products from notable manufacturers. Key elements include CPPARQUET and Cp Parquet for flooring, Elitis and INKIOSTRO for wall coverings, and KAZA for specialized surfaces. Lighting fixtures from Flos, furniture from Vitra, and pieces from DIESEL contribute to the overall ambiance and functionality of the space. Additional materials from Covering Chile, FLORIM, and Milliken are also integrated, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to interior specification. The selection of these manufacturers underscores the commitment to both aesthetic excellence and durability within the showroom's design. Suto Interior Architects, recognized for their expertise in interior design, led the project with a vision to create a unique and memorable spatial experience. The photographic documentation by Balázs Danyi captures the intricate details and overall atmosphere of the showroom, emphasizing its modern and refined aesthetic. The images showcase various areas, including stylish seating arrangements with distinct chairs, elegant tables, and strategically placed lighting that enhances the visual appeal of the showcased products. Specific photographic highlights include a bathroom area, a kitchen setup with shelving and countertops, and general interior shots that convey the spatial flow and material palette. The project is categorized under Showroom and Interior Design, reflecting its dual purpose as a commercial display space and an exemplary interior architectural work. Located in Budapest, Hungary, the showroom serves as a significant addition to the city's design landscape. The design carefully balances commercial requirements with a desire to create an inspiring and experiential setting, challenging the typical expectations of a product showroom. The collaboration between Decorfloor and Suto Interior Architects has resulted in a space that not only effectively presents products but also functions as a testament to contemporary interior design principles, fostering an interactive environment for customers to explore design possibilities. #InteriorDesign #Showroom #Budapest #Hungary #SutoInteriorArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #RetailDesign #ContemporaryDesign #MaterialSelection

Interior designer Ariella Duker embarked on a personal journey to create her dream home in Amenia, New York, after years of designing spaces for clients while living in a series of Manhattan rentals. Her venture into homeownership began eight years ago when she was captivated by the scenic beauty of Wethersfield Garden in Amenia. This discovery prompted her to research local properties, leading to the purchase of a 10.5-acre rocky and overgrown parcel of land in 2013. Duker's initial plan was to build her house from the ground up, a process she admits was filled with unforeseen challenges. She faced obstacles such as blasting through solid rock and encountering black bears, which served as a crash course in country living. Drawing inspiration from the symmetry and formality of European country homes, Duker collaborated with Sloan Architects in Millbrook. The final design of her dream home features a pared-down, more modern profile, better suited for the upstate New York climate and its practical needs. The main residence spans over 3,400 square feet, including a kitchen, living room, dining room, study, guest room/home office, mudroom, and powder room on the first floor. The second floor houses a primary suite, two additional bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a laundry area. Complementing the main house, Duker also added a pool, a 425-square-foot pool house, and a detached garage. Initially, Duker acted as her own general contractor, managing permits and subcontractors. However, she eventually enlisted the help of R.A. Nilsen Construction in Millbrook to get the project back on track. Once construction was complete, Duker focused on furnishing her home with a blend of antique finds from local shops and the renowned Brimfield Flea Market in Massachusetts. Her design aesthetic, characterized by warm whites and greiges, provided a consistent and elegant backdrop for these curated pieces, and also proved advantageous given pandemic-related supply chain issues. The interior spaces reflect Duker's personal style and practical considerations. The living room, designed for intimacy, features swivel chairs to encourage interaction and French doors that expand the space onto a porch during warmer months. Ombre drapes in the living room visually connect to the horizon. Her foyer is bathed in natural light through a glass front door, with neutral walls and pale wood accentuating classic molding. The dining room houses a vintage Swedish extension table with Savonarola chairs, which Duker restored with durable indoor/outdoor fabric. The crisp kitchen, designed and built by DeVol Kitchens, features English-made cabinetry and hardware, highlighting Duker's preference for functional elegance. A notable and cozy spot in the house is a velvet chaise, a sentimental piece that has accompanied Duker throughout her career, now serving as a favored resting place for her friends' dogs and her foster pups. Duker regards her home as a personal design laboratory, a space where she could finally express her full creativity, unlike her previous rental experiences in New York City. The completed home not only embodies her design philosophy but also radiates a positive energy, built on the support and camaraderie of friends and collaborators. It serves as a perfect setting for her to reciprocate the hospitality she has received over the years. Duker's team for the project included R.A. Nilsen Construction, Sloan Architects, Louis Fusco Landscape Architects, and Northwest Lawn and Landscaping, as well as Domenick Lopane Landscaping. #InteriorDesign #HomeOwnership #HudsonValley #Amenia #CustomHome #ArchitecturalDesign #Antiques #RenovationJourney

Becky and David Anderson, after living in Los Angeles and Boulder, Colorado, decided to create a vibrant and welcoming home in Minneapolis, near Bde Maka Ska, when they relocated in 2020. The couple, known for their hospitality, aimed for a space where guests would feel comfortable and at ease. Their previous homes were centers for family gatherings, birthday parties, and holiday celebrations, a spirit they wished to replicate in their new residence. Starting with minimal possessions, including a significant abstract painting by a friend, the Andersons enlisted designer Victoria Sass to transform their house into a home that reflected their personality and style. A key element of the design was the incorporation of color, drawing inspiration from Becky's profession as an owner of Bluebird Floral Design and the vivid hues of the abstract artwork. Sass also found inspiration in the earthy tones of Heath Ceramics but prioritized the Andersons' kind, generous, and mindful nature as her primary muse, aiming to infuse joy into the design. The house, built in the early 2000s, already possessed a relevant aesthetic with Scandinavian and Japanese influences, evident in the blond woodwork, frosted glass resembling rice paper, and a soaking tub. Sass made a conscious decision to respect and build upon these existing architectural elements rather than mask them. Her approach involved appreciating the home's history, the owners' story, and adding her unique perspective to create an eclectic and interesting design. Specific design choices included addressing a large paneled wall with a Noguchi Akari light sculpture, which provides a soft glow when illuminated at night and allows the space to breathe without excessive adornment. The dining area features curved Crate and Barrel chairs around a bluestone-and-oak table, suitable for games. The original gray stone fireplace was updated by painting it white, enhancing its texture and integrating it into the clean aesthetic, while drawing attention to the warm tones of the seating. In the vaulted living space, the challenge was to create coziness without losing its airiness or the lake views. Sass achieved this with a pair of sofas: one upholstered in a Japanese shibori-inspired fabric and another in tufted green linen. Moroso quilted armchairs completed the grouping, providing visual and tactile diversity that engages occupants with their surroundings and makes the vastness of the space feel secondary. A zero-waste rug from Winsome Goods, made from textile scraps, was hung as a tapestry above the original maple console, adding movement to the tableau. The kitchen was warmed with subtle colors through a deep green ceramic backsplash, soft sage counter stools, and earthy terra-cotta island pendants. The dining room features pink velvet chairs from Blu Dot and a meandering steel chandelier that fosters conversation without obstructing the view of Bde Maka Ska, while FLOR carpet squares define the area. #HomeTours #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #HomeStyle #ScandinavianDesign #JapaneseDesign #ColorfulInteriors #VictoriaSass #MinneapolisHome

This monthly series, "In Our Carts," highlights a curated selection of new product launches and collaborations in the home and lifestyle sphere. The June 2024 edition features a range of items, from bedding and rugs to furniture, lighting, and kitchenware, all chosen for their design and functionality. One of the notable collaborations is between Danish home brand Tekla and Artek, which resulted in a new line of bedding. This collection includes duvets and shams in three colors, adorned with Finnish architect Aino Aalto’s Kirsikankukka pattern, inspired by a Japanese scarf. The collaboration also marks Tekla's first venture into kids' bedding. Cold Picnic, known for its printed rugs, has expanded its offerings with a new collection of richly hued, solid-color rugs. These nature-inspired designs, such as Grass Green, Roasted Tomato, Sky Blue, and Pear, are crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, providing a luxurious feel underfoot. Dusen Dusen has introduced three new vibrant and graphic throw pillow designs: Daisy, Hourglass, and Ricrac. These pillows come in bold colors like sunflower yellow, denim blue, and Kelly green, adding a playful touch to home decor. CB2 has launched new alabaster sconces designed by Australian studio VUUE. These hand-carved alabaster globes are available in two sizes, 6 and 10 inches, and offer a blend of old-world glamour with a modern sensibility, suitable for various interior and exterior settings. Fashion designer Carly Cushnie has collaborated with Lulu and Georgia on her first furniture collection. This 11-piece line showcases a mix of materials, including cane, wood, bouclé, fringe, and velvet. Standout pieces include the warm-toned Yucca sofa and the burl-wood Sabal console table, offering extensive mix-and-match possibilities. Opinel has released a cleverly designed grilling set that emphasizes simplicity and utility. The stainless steel tongs are extra-long with notched tips and a curved edge for effective gripping. A unique feature is the folding knife that ingeniously transforms into a spatula handle, complete with a Virobloc locking ring. The knife handle also integrates a bottle opener, enhancing its functionality for outdoor cooking. R+D Lab has partnered with Mexican chef Elena Reygadas and Fenn Apartamento to create the Rosetta collection of glassware. This collection features three new glass shapes—Acqua, Sour, and Martini—inspired by ancient vessels discovered in Pompeii. While named for specific drinks, these versatile glasses are suggested for various beverages, such as white wine in the water cups and cordials in the stemmed glasses. Finally, Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen continues to expand his collection with Zara Home. The latest additions emphasize natural materials like wood, concrete, and solid brass, featuring pieces such as a daybed, a library system, and organically shaped concrete side tables. Dark brown is a prominent color throughout this new iteration of the collection, reflecting a sophisticated aesthetic. Baggu has also collaborated with Collina Strada on a line of limited-edition prints for its reusable bags, picnic blankets, and towels. A new highlight from this collaboration is the Horse Bag, a mini zippered pony-shaped bag, and the Boxer Plaid print on the Small Cloud carry-on, combining playful design with practical application. #ProductLaunches #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #Furniture #Lighting #Kitchenware #DesignCollaborations #NewArrivals

The High Point Market Fall 2024 showcased numerous new collections and collaborations from prominent designers and brands in the home furnishings industry. This event served as a platform for unveiling innovative designs and product lines across various categories, including furniture, textiles, lighting, and rugs. The market attracted a significant number of design professionals, all seeking to discover the latest trends and offerings. Bernhardt's Designer in Residence showcase, led by Nicole Fuller, presented an installation inspired by the Moroccan desert. This collection featured exotic elements such as pierced brass lanterns, an art deco-style faceted credenza, bullion fringe-trimmed settees, and pillows with beaded "evil eye" accents. The showcase aimed to create an immersive and unique design experience for visitors. Four Hands introduced the second installment of its collaboration with designer Amber Lewis. This launch comprised over 160 artisan-made SKUs, reflecting Lewis's signature coastal-cool aesthetic. Notable items included the shearling-covered Bennett chair, the paper cord-accented Salvador coffee table, and the hammered-bronze Corinne stool, catering to a blend of comfort and style. Tara Shaw's collaboration with Century Furniture drew inspiration from French flea market finds. The collection highlighted antique-driven designs such as the midcentury Italian-style Saint Laurent lounge chair and ottoman, the Rococo-esque Sainte Rome accent table, and the Trocadero desk, which featured ebonized detailing and hand-carved animal paw feet. This partnership aimed to merge historical elegance with contemporary craftsmanship. Thibaut's Anna French room displayed the Camelot collection, characterized by vibrant, jewel-toned fabrics. The collection included chairs upholstered in Linden Velvet, a sofa in moire-esque Regia, and drapes made from flame-stitched Kamut Embroidery, providing a luxurious and colorful aesthetic. Hickory Chair presented new collaborations with Kim Scodro and Suzanne Kasler. Scodro's contributions included soft-hued designs like the pale pink Harrison lounge chair, while Kasler's Bruges collection featured pieces such as the bone-inlaid Luc cocktail table and the tufted, art moderne-style Annabelle sofa, combining traditional and modern influences. Abner Henry's launches featured Sasha Bikoff's second collection, inspired by Memphis Milano, and the sinuous Aero console. These pieces emphasized unique shapes and artistic expressions, attracting attention from industry figures like Thom Filicia. Kravet's collaboration with fashion label Altuzarra at 200 Steele showcased a couture-fueled line. The collection included the ombre, sunset sky-inspired Colorscape mural, the Moth Weave, and the finely feathered Caspia, available as both fabric and wallcovering, reflecting a blend of fashion and home decor. Hubbardton Forge introduced the Snaps collection, an interactive lighting system composed of leather straps, LED modules, and alabaster diffusers. This modular design allowed for various configurations, offering customizable lighting solutions. Interlude Home presented petite versions of its Lucie and Theo sheep and a line of designer-selected chairs upholstered in Kravet fabrics, adding playful yet sophisticated options. Eliko Rugs by David Ariel collaborated with Anne-Marie Barton for a 27-piece collection of artisan-crafted rugs. This collection, which included the ultrashaggy Adorne and geometric Terra Luna styles, blended European design influences with contemporary aesthetics. Universal Furniture's Dwell collection featured architectural designs like a latticework-like bed frame, a cast concrete-shelved bar cart, a multifunctional cocktail table with an attached ottoman, and the Basalt credenza with pine lap-siding. Harbour showcased its new Palm Beach collection at the 313 Space, alongside other outdoor retailers and sustainability-minded brands such as Loose Parts, Nanimarquina, and Soil to Studio. Barbara Barry expanded her line with Baker and McGuire, introducing pieces like the rattan-framed Encircle sofa, the oak veneer-topped Cinch dining table, the plaster Dias Cylinder lamp, and the L-shaped Lao cocktail table made of honed Honey Onyx. Jaipur Living collaborated with House Sprucing on a collection of six artisan-crafted rugs, including the distressed Tesorino and hand-tufted Amata styles, made from 100 percent PET yarn. This collection emphasized European design and sustainable materials. Cordless lights were a notable trend, with introductions from Surya, Visual Comfort, Currey & Company, and Pooky, offering portable and flexible lighting solutions. Verellen celebrated its silver anniversary with a line of colorful upholstered furniture, including the polychromatic Otis club chair, the rainbow-speckled Roger swivel stool, and a bold color-blocked iteration of the modular Diego sectional sofa. Loloi featured Chris Loves Julia’s Scottie collection, a line of hand-tufted rugs with scalloped edges and striped double borders, available in various sizes and colorways. Burton James presented plush designs like the slope-armed Ally swivel chair, the sinuous Grayson sectional sofa, and the tightly upholstered Roy ottoman. Brown Jordan’s bestselling Luca collection, designed by Ann Marie Vering, offered a range of outdoor furniture with gently curved teak frames and weather-safe cushions. American Leather updated its Menlo Park series by Rick Lee, introducing a curvaceous bed and serpentine sofa upholstered in Ultrasuede fabric with channeled backs and welt detailing. Regina Andrew Detroit unveiled new lighting designs, including the mobile-inspired Artemis chandelier, the asymmetrical Happy Outdoor sconce, and the leather-wrapped Denver table lamp. BDI’s Elements collection by Matthew Weatherly provided acoustic-savvy storage solutions with laser-carved wood door fronts and metal mesh panels, designed to conceal audio equipment without compromising sound quality. #HighPointMarket #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign #HomeFurnishings #DesignerCollaborations #FurnitureTrends #LightingDesign #TextileCollections #RugDesign

Matches Fashion, a prominent online luxury retailer, has expanded its offerings with the launch of its Homewares Studio. This new venture aims to provide a curated selection of designer homewares, mirroring the high-end fashion experience the platform is known for. The initiative comes in response to a growing consumer demand for elevated home aesthetics, driven in part by social media and the desire to create interiors as fashionable as personal wardrobes. The Homewares Studio features a diverse range of products, including throws, cushions, tabletop items, and decorative pieces. It brings together established luxury brands and emerging designers, creating a comprehensive collection for interior design enthusiasts. Among the notable established brands included are Gucci, known for its distinct homewares that inspire complete remodelling fantasies; Maison Margiela; Loewe; and the homewares stalwart Missoni, recognized for its vibrant patterns and textiles. The platform also champions new and exciting talents in the design world. For instance, British designer Luke Edward Hall's ceramic pieces, which serve as canvases for his hand-painted illustrations of classical sculptures, flora, fauna, and bold slogans like “VICTIM OF LOVE,” are featured. Other emerging brands highlighted include Once Milano, offering sophisticated crushed-linen table linens in muted tones; Cire Trudon, specializing in haute parfumerie through its exquisite candles; and Raawii, a Copenhagen-based brand celebrated for its modernist crockery and rich color palettes. Matches Fashion’s approach to its homewares offering mirrors its successful strategy in ready-to-wear fashion: introducing shoppers to exclusive and innovative talents. An example is Kilometre Paris, which presents a collection of embroidered tea towels, cushions, and aprons designed to evoke postcards from exotic destinations, with each piece intricately crafted by region-specific female artisans. The studio also addresses specific trends, such as the popularity of Pendleton blankets, famously featured in Raf Simons’ Calvin Klein 205W39NYC collection for Spring 2018, which are now available for purchase. In addition to these designers, the article highlights a variety of specific items available, such as the Raawii Strom small ceramic jug, Once Milano rectangular crushed-linen tablecloth, L’Objet large Teo vase, Cire Trudon Marie-Antoinette Bust decorative candle, Calvin Klein 205W39NYC x Pendleton wool-cotton saddle blanket, Luke Edward Hall fish-painted ceramic serving platter, La Double J Editions set of two Housewives glasses, Cinnamon Projects Circa Mineral dalmation stone incense burner, Pendleton Fire Legend wool and cotton-blend blanket, Kilometre Paris palm-tree embroidered cotton apron, Maison Margiela embroidered clock, Saved NY cloud-jacquard cashmere blanket, Gucci Herbarium Verde porcelain salad bowl, Anya Hindmarch Anya Smells Washing Powder small scented candle, Missoni Home Ridley zigzag-knit cotton throw, and Perfumer H Ash scented candle. Each item is presented with its price and a direct link to Matches Fashion for purchase. The launch of the Homewares Studio reflects a broader trend of integrating fashion and lifestyle, allowing consumers to extend their personal style into their living spaces. By offering a meticulously chosen range of high-quality, designer home goods, Matches Fashion positions itself as a destination for creating aspirational interiors, reinforcing the idea that home décor is as crucial to personal expression as clothing. The platform encourages consumers to embrace the concept of "dressing for the home you want," turning their living spaces into curated reflections of their desired lifestyles. #MatchesFashion #HomewaresStudio #DesignerHomewares #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLifestyle #HomeDecoration #FashionRetail #EmergingDesigners #HighEndDecor

Gemma Samuels, an interior decor designer and content creator, founded Happi Habitat with the mission of creating happy homes for her clients. Her passion for interiors began at a young age, influenced by her house-proud Caribbean mother and her own enjoyment of redecorating her bedroom. Despite initially pursuing psychology with aspirations of becoming a clinical psychologist, she discovered a preference for working independently through a fashion and jewelry business she started during university. The pivotal moment arrived after she moved into a new home with her partner and two children, solidifying her interest in interiors. Samuels' entry into the interior design industry was organic and unplanned. She initially intended to document her flat's decoration on a blog, but a photographer, impressed by her home, requested her help with decorating and offered payment. This led to an exchange of services where Samuels decorated the photographer's bedroom in return for professional photos of her work. Upon sharing these on Instagram, she began receiving inquiries from potential clients. Initially, she undersold her services due to her newness in the field, often working for free or only covering expenses. This period, however, allowed her to accurately gauge project durations and determine fair pricing, leading to a standardized pricing structure over two years. The name 'Happi Habitat' reflects her personal experience of a happy home with her children and her broader goal of enhancing clients' lives and family dynamics through design. The pandemic significantly impacted her business model; while her on-site bespoke design services were temporarily halted, her e-design services, conducted virtually, saw a notable increase as people spent more time at home and focused on their living spaces. A key lesson Samuels learned as a businesswoman is to trust her instincts, both in business decisions and design recommendations. She emphasizes that as the expert, she must stand her ground, even if it means short-term disagreement, as her advice ultimately benefits the client. Addressing the lack of diversity in interior design, Samuels highlights the significant underrepresentation of Black women in the industry. Her own career path was unconventional, as she did not see Black women in interior design roles growing up, which led her to believe it wasn't a viable option. She believes increased visibility of Black interior designers is crucial to inspire more individuals from underrepresented communities to pursue careers in the field. She notes that while she initially struggled to find Black women interior designers, her networking within the industry has since revealed many talented professionals. Samuels resides in a two-bedroom flat in East London, which she is currently renovating into a three-bedroom space to accommodate her growing business and the demands of e-design work. Her interior style is a blend of Scandinavian minimalism with industrial accents. Her favorite room is her children's room due to its colorful and fun ambiance, while her least favorite was her bathroom prior to renovation. She admitted to succumbing to pressure to choose marble tiles for her renovated bathroom, a choice she now regrets but cannot change due to the investment. Samuels avoids being overly influenced by trends, preferring timeless, classic styles, though she occasionally adopts trends she genuinely likes, such as pampas grass. She expresses a strong dislike for grey crushed velvet decor, a trend she finds unappealing. Her top three home furnishing stores are MADE, for its affordable and stylish lighting; Ikea, for its affordability and wide range of home items; and Homesense, for unique pieces at great prices, despite requiring diligent searching. #InteriorDesign #GemmaSamuels #HappiHabitat #HomeDecor #BusinessJourney #DiversityInDesign #PandemicImpact #ScandinavianIndustrialStyle #HomeRenovation

Nestled within Odessa's Victoria Lakes community, a newly constructed four-bedroom, four-bathroom home by AR Homes by Custom Craft seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The design draws inspiration from the local lakes and wooded landscapes, employing a palette of organic textures, lush greenery, and soothing blue tones to evoke Florida's inherent beauty while maintaining a sophisticated and refined aesthetic. This residence, built on the Grandview floorplan, emphasizes open-concept living, robust storm-safe construction, and cutting-edge smart home technology, alongside versatile spaces for both social gatherings and private retreats. A central feature of this home is the luxurious owner’s bath, offering a spa-like experience. The kitchen is designed to cater to a chef's needs, and a spacious great room serves as the heart of the home. This great room transitions effortlessly into the outdoor living area through 10-foot sliding glass doors, leading to a covered lanai, a dedicated cabana, a swimming pool, and a spa, creating a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow. Interior designer Jill Sunseri, from AR Franchising, Inc., was instrumental in shaping the home's ambiance. She meticulously curated the interiors with warm neutral colors—including creams, taupes, and soft grays—which are accented by strategic bold contrasts and reflective metallic finishes. These metallic elements subtly echo the brightness of the Florida sunlight, enhancing the overall luminosity of the space. The selection of materials such as natural stone, wide-plank hardwood floors, and sculptural accessories contributes to a tactile and visually rich environment. Every surface within the home is deliberately chosen to create a sense of thoughtful design and luxury. The furniture, characterized by its streamlined forms, combined with rich wood tones and dynamic ceiling designs, creates a balanced atmosphere that is simultaneously elevated and relaxing. Sunseri particularly enjoyed the process of selecting artwork and accessories, viewing each piece as essential to the home’s refined and collected appearance. This meticulous curation was pivotal in actualizing the overarching design vision. Ultimately, the residence achieves a delicate balance between elegance and understated style. It is designed to be impressive without being ostentatious, and its generous proportions are tempered with a sense of intimate personalization. This home is not merely constructed to make an impression; it is crafted to foster a deep sense of belonging for its inhabitants. #ARFranchising #ARHomesTampa #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #FloridaLiving #CustomCraftHomes #VictoriaLakes #OpenConcept