omer arbel crafts lily pad-shaped columns for family home in canada

This article features an interview with designer Omar Chakil, who has dedicated nearly a decade to reintroducing Egyptian alabaster onyx into contemporary design. Chakil, a French Egyptian Lebanese artist, describes himself as a self-taught natural aesthete driven to bridge cultural divides through his work. He is recognized for introducing the concept of collectible design to Egypt, with his pieces exhibited globally in Dubai, Brussels, New York, St Moritz, Venice, Athens, Cairo, and Paris. The interview delves into Chakil's unconventional entry into design, his affinity for indigenous materials and craftsmanship, his approach to overcoming design limitations, and his philosophy on uniting people through embracing individual uniqueness. Chakil’s journey into design began unexpectedly, influenced by his architect mother. Initially a singer, he found himself redesigning his studio in Paris, which led to decorating gigs despite lacking formal design education. A pivotal moment occurred when he was forced to return to Egypt, halting his singing career and prompting him to focus on product design. This redirection led him to explore traditional Egyptian crafts, eventually discovering the potential of alabaster, a material he initially disliked due to its common, unappealing market appearance. A friend, knowledgeable in history, convinced him of alabaster's significance, highlighting its endemic nature to Egypt and its historical use by pharaohs who valued its translucence as a symbolic gateway to the afterlife. His creative process is characterized by meticulous research and a focus on creating enduring, high-quality pieces rather than mass-produced items. Chakil emphasizes the importance of each object, intending for them to be cherished across generations, thereby fostering a deeper appreciation for the object’s story and the craftsmanship involved. Working with alabaster presents unique challenges; it is a hard stone but scratches easily, exhibits varying veining, and its quarries are largely inaccessible in Upper Egypt. These limitations necessitate building personal networks for sourcing and transportation, directly influencing his designs and pushing him to adapt to circumstantial constraints. He values collaboration with skilled craftspeople, believing that their expertise is essential for realizing his visions. Chakil discusses his unintentional but significant role in bringing collectible design to Egypt. His first collection, exhibited at the Beirut Art Fair in 2017, surprised many who couldn't believe the pieces were made from Egyptian alabaster, showcasing his ability to transform traditional materials into contemporary art. He aims to elevate Egyptian craft globally, drawing parallels with French and Italian design traditions that gained recognition through international exposure. Currently, Chakil is reinterpreting ancient Egyptian iconography, such as canopic jars, transforming their historical purpose of preserving organs for the afterlife into containers for hopes, wishes, and dreams. His recent exhibition at PAD Paris 2025 with Galerie Gastou further explores ancient Egyptian themes. Collaborating with Victor Gastou, Chakil was encouraged to use his unique design language to reference Egyptian history, particularly its impact on French culture. This exhibition marks his first venture into incorporating different types of marble alongside alabaster, as seen in pieces like the “Resurrection Table.” This scarab-shaped table combines Egyptian alabaster, Italian bianco, and Iranian onyx, symbolizing rebirth and humanity's shared connection to foundational civilizations, with an inscription that reads: “Like the scarab, guide me towards the light.” Chakil continues to seek new directions in his work, exploring other materials while maintaining his commitment to telling meaningful stories through endemic, local resources, with an upcoming show in We Design Beirut featuring no alabaster at all. #OmarChakil #EgyptianAlabaster #CollectibleDesign #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship #CulturalBridge #AncientEgypt #ModernDesign

Pop singer turned interior designer Omar Chakil, with roots in an ancient Egyptian family, yet raised in Beirut and Paris, has rediscovered and revitalized Egyptian or Pharaonic alabaster. This stone, once revered by pharaohs for its translucency and believed to guide souls into the afterlife, fell into obscurity and was replaced by cheaper alternatives after Egypt's nationalization in the 1970s. For decades, it was relegated to cheap trinkets sold in Cairo's Khan el-Khalili souk, losing its perceived value and special status within Egyptian craft culture. Chakil, however, recognized its inherent beauty and potential. His collection, Suite Anima, named after the spiritual essence attributed to objects in Animism, is a sculptural and soulful furniture series. It comprises 22 pieces, including seating, lighting, and tabletop accessories, all meticulously hand-carved, with the exceptions of 'Naughty Cleopatra,' a CNC-cut tub made from a single stone block, and 'Thebes,' a dining table. Chakil's motivation is to demonstrate that local materials can be successfully integrated into contemporary design, bridging historical legacy with modern aesthetics. He aims to connect craft with design, the earthly with the ethereal, and Eastern traditions with Western sensibilities by utilizing this emblematic Egyptian mineral. Chakil emphasizes the alabaster's soothing, healing properties and its ability to beautifully transmit light through its wax-like texture. Key pieces in the collection include two neotenic floor lamps that emit a warm glow from internal bulbs, and the 'Thebes' infinity-loop dining table. This table features twin holes, reminiscent of spiral coin wishing wells, symbolizing continuous and endless energy flow. Other items in the collection include honed, matte-finish stools, oil diffusers, globular sconces, and organically shaped seating. The Suite Anima collection made its debut at Cairo’s collectible design gallery Le Lab in Spring. Le Lab, founded by Rasheed Kamel in October 2021, serves as a platform for various Middle Eastern talents, having previously collaborated with designers like Georges Mohasseb and sculptor Khaled Zaki. Chakil's work with Suite Anima not only reintroduces a forgotten material but also redefines its perception, showcasing its versatility and timeless appeal in modern interior design. #OmarChakil #EgyptianAlabaster #SuiteAnima #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #MaterialReclamation #ContemporaryCraft #LeLabCairo

Edward Linacre's Nest Lamp is an innovative flat-pack pendant light made from fast-growing bamboo veneer. The design draws inspiration from natural forms, specifically the honeycomb structure found in beehives, giving the lamp an organic and aesthetically pleasing appearance. This lamp is designed to be lightweight and strong, measuring 23 inches wide, while its flat-pack nature allows for easy and efficient shipping. The construction involves interlocking pieces of bamboo veneer, held together using non-toxic glue, emphasizing a commitment to sustainable materials and production methods. Linacre, an Australian designer, recently showcased the Nest Lamp at Milan Design Week as part of the Melbourne Movement, a collective known for presenting cutting-edge Australian designs. The exhibition provided a platform for the Nest Lamp to be introduced to a global audience, highlighting its unique design and sustainable attributes. The use of bamboo veneer, a renewable resource, aligns with growing interests in environmentally conscious product design, offering an alternative to more resource-intensive materials. The interlocking mechanism not only contributes to the structural integrity but also simplifies assembly for the end-user, enhancing its practicality. This product exemplifies a trend in design that combines natural inspiration with functional innovation. The honeycomb pattern is not just decorative; it inherently provides strength and an intriguing visual texture. The flat-pack characteristic is particularly noteworthy for its environmental implications, as it reduces shipping volume and, consequently, carbon footprint. This approach also makes the product more accessible for distribution across various markets, potentially reducing costs and making it a more competitive option in the lighting market. The Nest Lamp is positioned within the broader context of green lighting and sustainable interior design. Its presence at Milan Design Week under the banner of the Melbourne Movement underscores a shift towards designs that are both beautiful and responsible. The choice of bamboo, known for its rapid growth and minimal environmental impact, is a key element of its sustainable profile. The designer's emphasis on non-toxic adhesives further reinforces the product's eco-friendly credentials, ensuring that it is safe for indoor environments. Overall, the Nest Lamp by Edward Linacre represents a harmonious blend of natural aesthetics, functional design, and environmental consciousness. It caters to a market that values sustainable products without compromising on style or quality. The lamp's design, material selection, and production methodology reflect current trends in interior design and product development that prioritize ecological responsibility and innovative solutions for everyday items. #EdwardLinacre #NestLamp #BambooVeneer #FlatPackDesign #GreenLighting #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #MilanDesignWeek #MelbourneMovement

The Armadale Residence, situated in the inner-city Melbourne suburb of Armadale, represents a harmonious blend of minimalist design and subtle glamour. This family home is the product of a collaborative effort between two distinguished Australian design studios: Conrad Architects, responsible for the architectural framework, and Mim Design, which masterminded the interior aesthetics. The project's core philosophy was to create an elegant yet comfortable home with generous proportions, fitting its prestigious location, by emphasizing timeless design, tactile materials, and overall quality. Conrad Architects responded to the client's brief by designing a structure that incorporates classical proportions and manipulates open and opaque surfaces to establish an elegant rhythm across the façades. A notable architectural feature is the frontage's limestone colonnade, which provides a visually striking grid, accentuates verticality, and defines the home's external appearance. This colonnade also ingeniously integrates various details, such as bronze French doors, balustrades, planter boxes, and louvred screens, adding to the architectural richness. Inside the residence, a predominant sense of calm and understated luxury prevails. Mim Design implemented clean lines and surfaces, which are softened by carefully selected fabrics, such as ethereal curtains that adorn the living spaces. Key features like a sculptural, curved staircase serve as focal points. The interior layout efficiently manages open-plan areas, with different zones delineated through graphic elements, including partitions and joinery, ensuring both flow and functional separation. The circulation spine within the residence is linear, directly connecting the front and rear of the house and facilitating a clear distinction between public and private domains. The open-plan kitchen, living, and dining areas are designed as light-filled and luxurious spaces, offering framed views of a meticulously maintained garden. The material palette for the interiors includes chevron timber flooring, polished plaster walls, cloudy Versilia marble, rich timber joinery, and gunmetal tapware, all contributing to the sophisticated yet warm atmosphere. The outdoor spaces and planting were expertly conceived by Paul Bangay Garden Design, ensuring a seamless integration of the home with its natural surroundings. The combined efforts of Conrad Architects and Mim Design in weaving together the architecture and interiors result in a residence that feels both majestic and refined, while simultaneously being warm, comfortable, and highly functional for everyday family life. This thoughtful collaboration underscores a commitment to creating a home that is visually stunning, enduring, and perfectly tailored to its inhabitants' needs. #ArmadaleResidence #ConradArchitects #MimDesign #MelbourneArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #LuxuryInteriors #TimelessDesign #AustralianDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

Architects Lebel & Bouliane designed a ground-up residence in Scarborough, Ontario, drawing inspiration from the dramatic Scarborough Bluffs, a geological formation bordering Lake Ontario. The design aimed to evoke both stone and water, using materials that reflect the natural surroundings. The clients, a couple with three young children and an extended live-in family, sought a home that could accommodate multi-generational living, offering both shared spaces for family life and private bedroom suites, with a vision to age in place within the residence. The project, named Meadowcliffe House, was completed over several years, benefiting from the architects' prior experience with similar multi-generational homes featuring extensive stone. Meadowcliffe House is characterized by its dramatic structure, featuring a pair of stone volumes that frame a three-story central atrium. This atrium not only floods the interior with daylight but also offers unobstructed views of Lake Ontario from the moment one enters the front door. The limestone used for the residence was carefully selected and quarried in Owen Sound, Ontario, with Luc Bouliane personally choosing veins for consistency. The stone pieces were meticulously cut and mitered at the quarry for seamless integration between the exterior and interior, reinforcing the connection to the home's natural environment. In addition to limestone, the architects incorporated stainless steel, glass, bronze, and wood to create a flexible and accessible dwelling. The 7,750-square-foot residence encompasses 29 rooms, including six distinct bedroom suites spread across three levels. The ground floor is specifically designed for family gatherings and larger events, featuring a living area that opens directly onto an infinity pool. The interior design emphasizes natural elements, with furnishings kept minimal to complement the architecture and surrounding landscape. Lebel explains that the focus was on simplicity, texture, and scale, utilizing materials such as walnut, oak, metal, and glass, while textiles remained neutral and muted. The property also prioritized the preservation of natural landscape features, retaining over two dozen mature trees and reintroducing native plant species to blend with the Scarborough Bluffs environment. The project successfully created intimate spaces for the immediate family while also providing areas suitable for larger gatherings with extended family members. The master bedroom, for instance, offers expansive views of the lake, enhancing the connection to the natural setting. The use of natural Algonquin Limestone, personally selected by Bouliane, covers 6,350 square feet, ensuring a consistent aesthetic throughout. Notable interior pieces include walnut dining chairs, a table, and a bench by hollis+morris, and a large ash and walnut coffee table by Atelier Dimo, sourced through Montauk Sofa. The integration of the house with its site, the consideration for multi-generational living, and the deliberate material palette highlight the architects' approach to creating a home that is both aesthetically integrated with its surroundings and functionally adaptable for its occupants over time. #ResidentialArchitecture #MultiGenerationalLiving #LakeOntario #ScarboroughBluffs #LebelBouliane #LimestoneConstruction #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome

The article explores the growing trend of incorporating bobbin detailing into home interiors, highlighting its ability to transform a house into a more personalized and charming space. Bobbin detailing, a decorative accent characterized by its round, playful form, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, where artisans utilized factory offcuts to craft elegant yet practical furniture. Its resurgence in contemporary interior design reflects a desire for pieces that blend nostalgic charm with modern aesthetics, adding character and warmth to any room. The article outlines five distinct ways to integrate bobbin details into home decor, starting with bobbin ceiling trim. This approach involves adding custom or readily available bobbin molding to the ceiling, which can be painted to match the ceiling or in an accent color, offering a playful yet sophisticated finishing touch. An example provided is a bespoke bobbin cornice used in residential projects, demonstrating how this detail elevates a room's scheme. Next, bobbin wall molding is presented as a method to add subtle yet stunning detail to walls. One interior stylist's DIY approach involved applying wooden half balls to create bobbin molding, inspired by its use on picture frames and as wall molding in the UK. This technique offers a whimsical touch, transforming ordinary walls into focal points. The process, while potentially time-consuming, yields impactful results, suggesting that pre-painting the elements with a sprayer can simplify the application. Bobbin furniture is highlighted as one of the original and most chic ways to embrace this trend. The detailing is particularly effective on wooden furniture or smaller accent pieces such as side tables, chairs, and stools. The article also mentions the possibility of DIY bobbin furniture projects, advising that painting before installation is more efficient. Furniture can be painted or stained to match an existing color palette or in a contrasting color for a more unexpected visual element. The fourth method discussed is bobbin-framed doorways, which builds on the concepts of bobbin molding and ceiling trims. This approach involves lining entrances with bobbin trim, offering a stylish way to showcase interior design flair. To ensure the look remains chic and balanced, it is recommended to keep it minimal and use it on smaller pieces or as accent details. Incorporating neutral tones or wood finishes helps these details integrate seamlessly into various interior styles. Furthermore, bobbin-style carvings can be applied to cabinet doors or trims in kitchens or living rooms, with painted finishes modernizing these heritage elements. Finally, the article delves into incorporating bobbin details through bobbin lamps and other small accessories. Bobbin-framed mirrors, headboards, and especially accent lamps with stacked round ball bases are suggested as easy ways to introduce this trend without overwhelming the overall design. These smaller accessories add charm and sophistication, providing mood lighting while simultaneously bringing a unique personality to a room. The article concludes by emphasizing that bobbin detailing is a versatile design trend that can make any item or surface feel special and interesting, fitting well into most home styles. #BobbinDetails #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #ArchitecturalMolding #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #DIYHomeDecor #Craftsmanship

Atelier l'Abri, a local architecture studio, designed the Melba Pavilion, a 45-square-metre shed on a Quebec farmhouse property. Located in Frelighsburg, the structure serves as a workspace and storage facility for Maison Melba, an estate that encompasses a residence, studio, workshop, and greenhouse dedicated to sustainable agriculture. The pavilion is strategically placed between the greenhouse and the main house. Its layout incorporates a central storage area, a lofted open space for various activities, and an external workspace sheltered by extensive eaves. The design of the Melba Pavilion draws inspiration from the local vernacular architecture, prioritizing a sense of simplicity in its form and function. The architectural concept of the Melba Pavilion aligns with the principles articulated in Kenneth Frampton's "Studies in Tectonic Culture." This influence is evident in the studio's emphasis on showcasing the expressive capabilities of construction and highlighting the intrinsic value of materials and their assembly in shaping a building's overall character and impact. The studio specifically noted that the pavilion embodies simplicity and elegance through its judicious selection of readily available and cost-effective materials, contributing to a design that is both functional and aesthetically refined. This approach underlines a commitment to accessible and unpretentious architectural solutions. The structural framework of the building is exposed and constructed using local hemlock wood. A prominent gabled roof covers the storage space, which is clad in galvanized steel panels. A series of timber beams extends downwards around the storage area, deliberately spaced to create ample room for various work-related tasks. At the front of the pavilion, a wooden ladder provides access to a semi-enclosed loft. This elevated space is sheltered by translucent polycarbonate panels forming the roof and remains open on its sides, allowing for natural light and ventilation. Steel decking and a trap door on the upper level offer views into the storage area below. The rigorous structure defining the loft space features a series of trusses, a design element derived from a residential building on the property that underwent renovation. Atelier l'Abri explained that the design is influenced by the rhythmic repetition of trusses observed during the renovation of the older home, resulting in a unique and functional structure. The substantial timber frame of the pavilion, crafted from local hemlock wood, acts as a sculptural element within the landscape, establishing a visual connection between the garden and the main house. The oversized roof is also a nod to local architectural traditions and is conceived as an homage to the roof's fundamental role as a primary form of shelter. In line with sustainable practices, Atelier l'Abri intentionally used raw and accessible materials throughout the construction process. This material choice reflects broader environmental initiatives adopted across the Maison Melba property, which is on track to achieve LEED Platinum certification. The property's commitment to sustainability extends to its landscaping, which follows principles of ecological, edible, and regenerative design, overseen by the local landscape architecture studio Écomestible. The Melba Pavilion exemplifies a dedication to environmental stewardship and community well-being by promoting minimal construction practices and reducing environmental impact through the use of local, low-carbon materials. This design approach contributes to the site's overall sustainability and self-reliance, celebrating daily gardening activities within a uniquely designed structure. Atelier l'Abri has also undertaken other projects in Quebec, including A-frame micro cabins and a sculptural chalet for a public park. #Pavilions #Canada #Quebec #Sheds #AtelierLAbri #Architecture #SustainableDesign #TimberConstruction

Arik Levy, an Israel-born, Paris-based multidisciplinary designer, showcased his lighting collections 'In & Out' and 'Cage' at Maison et Objet 2012. These collections, designed for the French manufacturer Forestier, highlight a blend of traditional craftsmanship and versatile design, utilizing basic tools and materials like hand-made paper and metalwork. The 'In & Out' collection is conceptualized around flexibility, offering lamps that can function both indoors and outdoors. The design redefines the traditional drop-cord worklight, allowing it to serve as a standing lamp, a pendant light, or to be placed on its side. Its flat base ensures stability on surfaces, while an integrated hook on the opposite side provides the option for hanging. The collection is available in two sizes: 47.5 x 25 cm (18.7 x 9.8 inches) and 65.5 x 30 cm (25.8 x 11.8 inches), demonstrating adaptability for various spaces and uses. The 'Cage' collection features a simplified form that accentuates the texture of its paper lampshade. This series is available in black, blue, and red, adding a vibrant touch to its minimalist aesthetic. A key innovative aspect of the 'Cage' design is its transformable functionality; the smallest size in the collection can serve as a table lamp, and when inverted, it converts into a pendant lamp. The 'Cage' table lamp measures 80 x 43.2 cm (31.5 x 17 inches), and the 'Cage' surface lamp is 48.5 x 42.6 cm (19 x 16.8 inches). These dimensions, combined with the material choices, reflect a thoughtful approach to both aesthetics and utility. Maison et Objet, a bi-annual international trade show held in Paris Nord, Villepinte exhibition center, is a significant event for furniture, interior, industrial, and product design. The winter installment in 2012 served as a platform for both established and emerging talent in the design industry, making it an ideal venue for Levy to present his innovative lighting solutions. His designs for Forestier exemplify a commitment to blending aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, making them suitable for diverse interior and exterior environments. #ArikLevy #Forestier #MaisonEtObjet #LightingDesign #ProductDesign #VersatileLighting #PaperLampshade #ContemporaryDesign

The article presents 'Electric Amber' as VERANDA's 2024 Color of the Year, a vibrant orange-brown shade designed to infuse interiors with both vivacity and warmth. It highlights the color's nostalgic appeal and its contemporary relevance across various design elements such as upholstery, lighting, and artwork. The article then provides eight distinct examples from different locations globally, showcasing diverse applications of Electric Amber in interior design. One prominent example is the dining room of late English decorator David Hicks in St. Leonard’s Terrace, London, where amber tones create a radiant and inviting atmosphere, fostering lively conversations. Hicks, inspired by Jaipur’s Durbur Hall, used black borders to segment the walls, enhancing the visual impact of the amber. Moving to Paris, the renowned Café Lapérouse, meticulously decorated by Cordélia de Castellane of Dior Maison and Baby Dior, features golden-patterned wallcoverings and draperies that complement a mural of glowing stars, establishing a romantic and cozy ambiance. In New York City, interior designer Stephen Gambrel integrated Electric Amber into an Upper East Side apartment. He utilized a handmade wallcovering by Asterisk Design in a seating area, where the shimmering, wave-like pattern of the amber material evokes a mystical quality under natural light. On the Upper West Side, Sarah Lederman addressed the challenge of balancing existing brown wood detailing in an 1895 Victorian townhome for a young family. Her solution was an Electric Amber sofa in Brunschwig & Fils mohair, which she noted brings a sophisticated, luxurious, and cheerful element to the family room. Subtle accents like striped ottoman fabric and floral Roman shades further weave the color throughout the space. Shawn Henderson’s design for a historic New Orleans home also features Electric Amber prominently. He selected a saffron linen for a roll arm sofa, aiming for a rich color palette that reflects the city's unique spirit. Henderson appreciated the fabric's depth and saturation, believing the room’s scale could support such a bold hue. The color's intensity is reinforced by Nigel Cooke’s _Gazing_ oil-and-acrylic painting situated near the fireplace. The article further explores the natural origins of Electric Amber's appeal with the Peace House in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Here, interior designer Sybil Gallagher collaborated with artist Flannery Cronin on stained glass panels that depict a sunset and a meditating monk, creating a serene, glowing effect with the rising and setting sun, balanced by warm clay walls. In Bali, the Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape, welcomes guests with an illuminated, hand-carved brick wall, showcasing the resort’s logo from morning to night. This installation uses amber tones to encourage guests to connect with natural rhythms. Lastly, the article highlights a kitchen and bar at the Kips Bay Show House Dallas, designed by Yates Desygn. Electric Amber lighting, inspired by a flapper dress, with fringe-like shelving installations and beaded string lights, creates a distinctive mood. This warm glow beautifully complements amber glassware, contrasting with darker walnut paneling and an olive quartz backsplash, demonstrating the color’s versatility in setting an elegant and inviting atmosphere. #InteriorDesign #ColorOfTheYear #ElectricAmber #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #DesignTrends #DecoratingIdeas #ArchitecturalDesign

Amber Lewis, a Los Angeles-based designer, has launched her latest furniture collection with Four Hands, featuring over 80 new pieces. The collection emphasizes a layered, lived-in aesthetic, incorporating cozy textiles like shearling and stitched patchwork. A prominent item in the collection is a large oak cabinet, the Harding Cabinet, designed for displaying various curiosities. Lewis highlights the importance of shelves for personal expression, and this cabinet offers adjustable shelves behind sliding glass doors, along with shallow drawers and two roomy cabinets for storage. Key additions to the collection include a canopy bed, a vanity stool, and an outdoor ottoman coffee table, marking a first for Lewis in these specific categories. The Gwendolyn Accent Stool showcases Lewis's focus on new furniture that appears vintage, blending traditional fabrics, such as a whimsical Damask print, with contemporary silhouettes like a hammered bronze frame. This approach reflects her observation of current trends favoring vintage-looking pieces. Another notable material introduced in this collection is lacquered linen, applied to pieces like the Sasha coffee table, Mirabel sideboard, and the Paula 6 Drawer Dresser. This unique paint treatment, while visually appealing, requires careful maintenance due to its sensitive surface, necessitating protection from sharp objects, immediate spill cleanup, and avoidance of direct sunlight to prevent fading. The Jodie Canopy Bed, with its option for a mossy green headboard, is highlighted as a way to incorporate rich hues into home decor, particularly for updating spaces for colder seasons. Lewis also emphasizes the role of candles and scents in setting a home's tone, specifically recommending a peppermint and eucalyptus blend called September. The collection also features functional yet stylish items like the Tova Desk Chair, which boasts a paper cord-wrapped back and a plush foam cushion, and the Camino Ottoman, a patchwork-style ottoman designed for extra seating. The collection reflects Lewis's design philosophy of blending functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating pieces that contribute to a comfortable and personalized living environment. Her selections aim to provide versatile options for various rooms and design preferences, allowing individuals to infuse their spaces with character and warmth. #AmberLewis #FourHands #FurnitureCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #CanopyBed #LacqueredLinen #VintageInspired

This article highlights ten residential projects that feature distinctive types of house cladding, in response to a 70 percent increase in searches for "house cladding" on Dezeen's Pinterest over the past month. Architects globally are increasingly using a variety of materials to creatively cover building exteriors, moving beyond traditional methods to incorporate both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits such as thermal efficiency and weather resistance. The featured projects showcase innovative uses of materials including recycled scallop tiles, cork, pine siding, slate, weathering steel, and ceramic tiles. The 2HIEN house in Vietnam, designed by CTA, utilizes recycled scallop tiles from the client's previous home to clad both the exterior and roof, as well as interior walls, minimizing the need for new materials. In the Czech Republic, Atelier SAD and Iveta Zachariášová selected cork for a rural house's exterior due to its thermal and weather-resistant qualities, complementing the interior's concrete walls, floors, and ceilings. Stanaćev Granados's Casa Kuvo in Chile, a cubic holiday home on the coast, employs pine siding to reflect the intense sun, integrating the structure with its natural surroundings. Angelucci Architects' Nido House in Australia involves the renovation of a Victorian brick terraced house with an extension clad in hand-cut Welsh slate tiles, covering both the roof and a portion of the facade. LCA Architetti's "The House of Wood, Straw and Cork" in Italy exemplifies sustainable building practices, using a timber structure, straw insulation, and cork cladding to create a minimalist home that harmonizes with its rural setting and reduces environmental impact. Studio Okami Architecten's Beli House in Belgium draws inspiration from 1960s design, featuring a mirrored-clad volume that reflects the surrounding woodland, integrated into a concrete and glass structure. Omar Gandhi Architect's "Mountain Beetle" in British Columbia, Canada, is a fire-resistant mountaintop retreat clad in weathering steel, designed to resemble a mountain beetle and protect against wildfires prevalent in the region. Mecanoo's Villa BW in the Netherlands incorporates ceramic tiles in shades of grey, blue, and green with a pearlescent glaze, creating a facade that changes color with the sunlight. The Nishiji Project in Chiba, Japan, by Kompas, uses traditional kawara tiles, blackened to resist salt damage, for a house and art gallery with garages on the ground floor and art spaces across three upper levels. Lastly, Rundzwei Architekten's "Cork Screw House" in Berlin, Germany, utilizes waste cork from the wine industry for its facade and roof, providing thermal efficiency and a distinctive exterior. These projects collectively demonstrate a diverse and innovative approach to house cladding, emphasizing both sustainability and unique architectural expression. #HouseCladding #ArchitecturalDesign #SustainableMaterials #ResidentialArchitecture #ExteriorDesign #BuildingMaterials #InnovativeCladding #HomeExteriors #ArchitecturalProjects

Interior designer Amber Lewis has launched her second collection with home furnishings brand Four Hands, offering a range of pieces that blend modern aesthetics with traditional elements. This new collection allows consumers to integrate Lewis's signature style into their own homes, building upon the success of their initial collaboration. The updated line features a more contemporary feel, incorporating soft, curved details with modern lines and rich materials such as walnut. Shoppe Amber Interiors serves as a direct retail channel for these items, making them accessible to both designers and homeowners. Key pieces from the collection highlight Lewis’s design philosophy. The Tova Dining Armchair, a favorite of Lewis’s, combines a woven-paper-cord backrest, an oak frame, and a linen cushion, showcasing a captivating mix of materials that can adapt to various decor styles. For surface styling, the Sumba Pedestal Set offers low display surfaces made from papier-mâché, ideal for showcasing small decorative items like incense, candles, vintage books, or catchalls. This set provides a refined way to elevate and organize tabletop accessories. Another notable item is the Maha Accent Stool, a two-tiered piece crafted from reclaimed wood, offering a fresh interpretation of nesting furniture with an antique-inspired look. It can function as a side table for entertaining or as a platform for creating dramatic mood lighting with candles. The Augusta Coffee Table, described by Four Hands’s vice president of design, Adam Dunn, as an “instant classic,” features contemporary cast-iron legs supporting two tray-style tabletops, providing an expansive surface for styling coffee-table books and other decorative objects. The Leyla Bed is a timeless piece that exemplifies Lewis’s design approach, juxtaposing a black iron frame with a soft, upholstered headboard. This combination creates a beautiful and enduring aesthetic for the bedroom. Additionally, the collection includes the Aurelia dining banquette, another linen-covered staple. The artwork featured in the collection holds personal significance for Lewis, as it includes pieces by her mother, Lori Marie, as well as works by photographer Shade Degges and artist Chelsea Fly, adding an intimate touch to the overall offering. This second collaboration between Amber Lewis and Four Hands expands on their shared vision of providing accessible, stylish, and well-crafted home furnishings. The collection emphasizes versatility and thoughtful design, allowing individuals to create curated and inviting living spaces. The focus on rich materials, contemporary lines, and functional yet elegant forms ensures that the pieces can seamlessly integrate into diverse interior design schemes, from modern to more traditionally inspired settings. #AmberLewis #FourHands #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #FurnitureCollection #DecorInspiration #TabletopStyling #ModernTraditionalDesign

Interior designer Amber Lewis shares her preferred style for curtain hardware: the curved French return rod. She emphasizes its classic and simple aesthetic, suitable for a variety of spaces. Lewis's go-to brand, Everhem, offers this style in matte black and allows for custom sizing, eliminating the need for telescopic extenders, which contributes to the higher price point starting at $820. Recognizing the demand for hardware on her e-commerce site, Lewis partnered with Everhem founder Haley Weidenbaum to make these specific rods available through Shoppe Amber Interiors in two length ranges: 40-77 inches and 78-150 inches. The article delves into key considerations for selecting and installing curtain rods. Lewis advocates for a thinner rod diameter, specifically 3/4 inch, noting a growing trend among designers for this more subtle look over the standard one-inch diameter. A common mistake observed by Lewis is incorrect curtain length; she stresses that curtains should ideally just graze the floor. Everhem's website also reinforces this recommendation. Regarding installation, the article highlights the "eight-inch rule" for curtain rod placement. This guideline suggests extending the rod eight to ten inches beyond each side of the window frame and mounting it at least eight inches above the window. This technique is designed to create the illusion of a larger window and higher ceilings, preventing the space from feeling minimized. In terms of fabric trends, Everhem's Haley Weidenbaum notes a shift from white drapery, traditionally their bestseller, towards darker hues like Cognac and Umber. She anticipates that this designer preference for color, drama, and pattern will soon be adopted by a broader consumer base. Amber Lewis herself incorporates patterned window treatments, such as floral cafe curtains and plaid drapes, determining their use based on the room's function and how the fabric contributes to the overall design. Ultimately, Lewis advises choosing what brings personal happiness in home decor. The article concludes by reiterating the versatility and aesthetic appeal of the curved French return rod, particularly for achieving desirable curtain length and a polished look. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CurtainRods #WindowTreatments #AmberLewis #Everhem #HomeDecorTrends #DesignTips #HardwareStyle

The Curly Willow is a new home decor retail shop in Truesdale, Missouri, opened by interior designer Ellen Wortham. The store, which had its grand opening on Black Friday, is an extension of Wortham's three decades of experience in the design industry, particularly through her existing firm, JE Design Group, which she co-operates with Jeanne Huber on the same six-acre property. Wortham's vision for The Curly Willow is to provide a curated selection of home goods that caters to individuals who may not require a full interior design project but are looking to refresh their living spaces with unique pieces. The store's name, "The Curly Willow," was chosen by Wortham to evoke both a sense of artistic flair and a connection to her design roots. The logo, featuring a drawing of a curly willow tree, and the tagline "Rooted in Design" deliberately reflect her extensive background in interior design. This foundational experience influences the shop's inventory, which includes a diverse range of furniture, florals, fabrics, wallpaper, and cabinet hardware. Wortham emphasizes sourcing items directly from manufacturers to ensure quality and offers both ready-to-purchase items and custom orders for fabrics and draperies, available by the yard. A key differentiating factor for The Curly Willow is its selection of unique pieces and trims that are typically hard to find without the assistance of a professional designer. Wortham aims to provide an accessible way for the general public to acquire these specialized items. In addition to larger home furnishings, the store also features a thoughtful collection of gift items. Wortham prides herself on offering gifts that are special, unique, and not commonly found elsewhere, distinguishing The Curly Willow from typical retail establishments. Supporting other small businesses is a core value for Wortham, as evidenced by the inclusion of local Missouri products in her inventory. This includes dog treats from a local company, a local jewelry line, and various ornaments sourced from nearby artisans and small businesses. This commitment to local partnerships enhances the store's unique offerings and contributes to the regional economy. The location of The Curly Willow, while slightly off the main thoroughfare within an industrial park, is strategically positioned on a common route between St. Louis and popular attractions like Hermann's wineries and the Lake of the Ozarks, potentially drawing in both local and transient customers. Wortham leverages social media to reach potential customers, particularly given the booming home construction in the area. She also relies on word-of-mouth referrals and road trips from nearby regions. A significant aspect of The Curly Willow's appeal is Wortham's willingness to share her extensive design expertise with shoppers. Whether it's offering advice on staging a console table, demonstrating how to create a bow with non-wired ribbon, or providing insights into more complex interior design solutions, she views this as a natural extension of her service. This hands-on guidance and knowledge sharing aim to create a valuable and personalized shopping experience, encouraging repeat visits and building a loyal customer base for both the retail store and the JE Design Group.

Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams is a highly favored off-white paint color among interior designers, renowned for its ability to create sophisticated and inviting spaces. Despite decorating with neutrals sometimes being considered unoriginal, Alabaster's timeless appeal makes it a classic choice. It was even named the brand's Color of the Year in 2016, highlighting its enduring popularity. This particular hue strikes an ideal balance of style and warmth, distinguishing itself from typical bright whites with gray undertones by leaning towards the yellow end of the spectrum, yet avoiding a creamy appearance. This makes Alabaster a versatile and enduring shade that transcends fleeting color trends. Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams, describes Alabaster SW 7008 as a shade that masterfully balances the brightness of white with a warm and cozy feel. Its versatility allows it to serve as a backdrop for various design styles, from modern to minimalist. Named after the milky-white stone, Alabaster possesses delicate, soft qualities with just the right amount of greige undertones, making it neither too warm nor too cool. Wadden suggests its use on bedroom walls for a peaceful atmosphere or in communal rooms like dining areas, paired with pastel trims and modern fixtures, to achieve an organic modern aesthetic. Jennifer Davis of Davis Interiors echoes this sentiment, noting Alabaster's creamy and soft hue provides an elegant touch for walls, millwork, and cabinets. She emphasizes its reflective properties, which create a warm ambiance, especially when enhanced by natural light. Davis prefers Alabaster for its ability to maintain a clean, warm tone without adopting unwanted undertones, making it an excellent foundation for both minimalist and eclectic decor. Interior designers offer several strategies for decorating with Alabaster. One effective method involves pairing it with natural wood tones, leather, or linen to create dynamic and visually appealing spaces. Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight advises introducing diffused contrasts using darker or more vibrant accessories such as throw pillows, plants, or richly colored artwork. Jennifer Davis supports this, suggesting that pairing Alabaster walls with darker millwork creates striking depth and makes spaces feel larger, while also providing a neutral canvas for seasonal decor changes. The consistency of Alabaster across different millwork elements also ensures a cohesive look. Alabaster is also highly effective in brightening small spaces, particularly those lacking ample natural sunlight, such as pantries, boot rooms, or small entryways. Kathy Kuo, an interior designer, highlights its ability to bring brightness without appearing stark, making smaller rooms feel more expansive. She notes its suitability for various design styles, including coastal beach, French country, and modern farmhouse. To maximize its luminosity, placing mirrors strategically can help bounce light around the room. For built-in cabinetry, such as kitchen cabinets, home office units, and bookshelves, Alabaster provides a fresh and bright appearance. Carola Pimentel of Assure Interiors recommends layering textures through tactile materials for a laidback and refined scheme suitable for functional family spaces. Kropovinsky adds that Alabaster serves as an excellent base to highlight architectural features or as a canvas for bolder accents. In bathrooms, Alabaster's subtle warmth fosters a cozy and inviting retreat, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Gianna Pagliarulo of Studio Itaca suggests incorporating textured finishes like limewash or plaster in Alabaster to prevent the neutral color from appearing flat, lending a contemporary feel. For an enveloping effect, particularly in bedrooms, designers recommend color drenching, applying Alabaster to walls, woodwork, and ceilings. Tama Bell of Tama Bell Design chose Alabaster for a coastal home to achieve a warm yet clean and fresh feel, ensuring comfort. Contrary to concerns about neutral rooms appearing stark, texture in flooring, finishes, and textiles can add significant depth and comfort, with color drenching even being linked to improved sleep. Lastly, Alabaster excels as a backdrop for layering prints and colors. In a living room designed by Davis Interiors, Alabaster walls, ceilings, and trims allowed for flexible decor choices, maintaining a warm and clean tone without undesirable undertones. This approach perfectly complements a coastal farmhouse style, creating a light and airy space. Sue Wadden suggests adding muted colors and natural wood tones to complete the comfortable aesthetic. Ultimately, Alabaster's adaptability, light-enhancing qualities, and compatibility with various design elements make it a reliable choice for interior design that transcends trends, with designers continuing to leverage its potential in diverse ways. #AlabasterPaint #SherwinWilliams #InteriorDesign #DecoratingWithNeutrals #HomeDecor #WarmWhites #ColorTrends #PaintColors #DesignTips