Inside Look: Dune CEO’s Southampton Home by Sawyer|Berson

The Lido Key home of Dan Denton, founder of Sarasota Magazine, is currently on the market for $4.95 million. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom residence at 117 S. Polk Drive exemplifies the Sarasota modern style, a significant architectural movement that gained international recognition from the mid-1940s through the 1960s. Denton, 71, recognized the enduring appeal of this style long before it was formally categorized as the “Sarasota School of Architecture.” He attended the 1982 American Institute of Architects convention where Gene Leedy, one of the movement's pioneers, officially coined the term. Denton, who admires architects like Paul Rudolph and Victor Lundy, acquired the home in 1989. At that time, the Sarasota School was a niche interest, with Mediterranean Revival being the predominant style. Denton was drawn to the home's flat roof, wide overhangs, terrazzo floors, and other midcentury characteristics, viewing it as a hidden gem reflecting the Sarasota School aesthetic, similar to a ranch version of the Umbrella House. Over 35 years, Denton undertook three significant renovations to transform the property into a pure embodiment of the Sarasota modern style. While the specific costs of these renovations are not disclosed, each decision was meticulously considered, with numerous architectural drawings and plans, including an idea for a second floor, ultimately not implemented. The initial layout, with rooms concentrated at one end, was reconfigured to a split floor plan. The guest wing is now arranged in a U-shape, creating a private courtyard at the back, mirroring another courtyard at the front, thereby maximizing outdoor living spaces. The backyard features a pool, spa, and fire pit, and a guest house is accessible via the kitchen in the main house's other wing. Architectural features include floating overhangs for shade and extensive use of windows and glass sliders, designed to enhance cross-ventilation and views. The first renovation in 1990, led by designer Robert Beardsworth, introduced a new pool and kitchen. Ten years later, Beardsworth’s partner, Robert Neal, and architect Michael Epstein of Seibert Architects (a firm founded by Tim Seibert, another Sarasota School leader and former draftsman for Paul Rudolph) collaborated on the second phase. The most recent renovation, completed in 2021, added an open pavilion to the garden, further integrating indoor and outdoor living. The front wall of the living and dining area was replaced with floor-to-ceiling windows, and screen-holding beams on the screened porch were removed to create unobstructed views of the pool. This renovation earned the home a Florida AIA Design Award in 2022. The home is adorned with Denton’s art collection and midcentury furniture, though these will accompany him to his new residence. Notable exceptions include a copper sculpture by Jack Cartlidge in the front yard and a colorful PVC pipe cylinder sculpture by James Renfro in the backyard, both of which will remain. The property does not have historical designation, offering flexibility for future modifications, but Denton hopes the next owner will share his appreciation for the home's unique style, expressing a desire to avoid a buyer who might consider demolition. He notes the challenge and interest in balancing replacements while maintaining the vintage aesthetic, exemplified by his decision to preserve the original pink tile in one of the bathrooms. Denton is downsizing but remaining in the local area. Kim Ogilvie of Michael Saunders & Company is handling the listing, emphasizing the home's prime location, offering access to the beach, boating, and dining without requiring a car, and highlighting the rarity of such expertly remodeled midcentury-modern homes on the market. #SarasotaModern #LidoKeyRealEstate #MidcenturyArchitecture #SarasotaSchoolOfArchitecture #HomeRenovation #LuxuryHomes #DanDenton #ArchitecturalDesign #FloridaAIAAward

The Nobu brand, co-founded by Robert DeNiro and chef Nobu Matsuhisa, has expanded from its initial restaurant in Tribeca into a global empire encompassing 40 restaurants and 20 luxury hotels by the end of 2020. This expansion includes two significant new properties in North America: Nobu Hotel Los Cabos and Nobu Hotel Palo Alto. Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, which opened in March, features 200 guest rooms, infinity pools, and a spa, situated on the Baja Peninsula's southern tip. The architectural design integrates Japanese aesthetics with Mexican influences. Guests are welcomed through a Zen-inspired courtyard that leads to a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, framed by a stone portal. The hotel's layout prioritizes ocean views, particularly the Pacific sunsets. Interior design reflects Japanese minimalism, incorporating elements such as teak soaking tubs and shoji screen-inspired closet doors in guest rooms. Local Mexican materials, geometric artwork, and vibrant color accents add indigenous character to the minimalist design. Nobu Hotel Palo Alto, designed by Montalba Architects, is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation and rebranding, with its opening slated for 2020. This boutique property will offer 73 rooms and a two-story signature restaurant. Despite its urban setting in Silicon Valley, the hotel will feature an outdoor plant and sculptural landscape. Interior lighting will include John Wigmore light fixtures crafted from Japanese paper. Catering to its tech-centric location, the hotel will provide advanced technological amenities such as 82-inch televisions and in-room Alexa devices. The high-end Ryokan rooms will further enhance the luxury experience with freestanding wood soaking tubs and slatted teak wall paneling. The design philosophy across Nobu Hotels emphasizes "unpretentious luxury." Robert DeNiro describes his preference for designs that are simple, elegant, functional, practical, and devoid of excessive ornamentation, stating that rooms should be rooted in a sense of reality. This approach is evident in the understated yet chic minibars at the Palo Alto location and the lush, streamlined pools at Los Cabos. Beyond design, the culinary experience remains a cornerstone of the Nobu brand. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa ensures that local ingredients, techniques, and staff are integrated into each hotel's dining offerings. This commitment extends to supporting local communities, as seen with the employment of Mexican staff at the Los Cabos property. The partners, including Robert DeNiro and Meir Teper, acknowledge occasional disagreements over their 25 years of collaboration but emphasize their strong, family-like bond, driven by a shared commitment to developing properties in optimal locations with the right teams. This collaborative approach underpins their successful expansion into the luxury hotel market. #NobuHotels #LuxuryHospitality #HotelDesign #JapaneseMinimalism #ArchitecturalDesign #RobertDeNiro #NobuMatsuhisa #InteriorDecor #SiliconValley

Susan Winchester Dabney, an interior designer based in Sarasota, has established a prominent career specializing in ultra-luxury yacht interiors. Recognized in 'The Mega Yachts 2014' as one of the top 12 yacht interior designers, Dabney transitioned her business focus to yacht design two years prior to the article's publication. Her background includes growing up on Lake Michigan with a family history of boating, which provided a natural connection to marine environments. Her academic foundation, a B.S. in textile design from Michigan State, proves particularly advantageous in this niche, as textile performance is critical due to the salt air and other challenging factors inherent to marine settings. Dabney's entry into yacht design was organic, stemming from a residential client who purchased a 61-foot Marlow Explorer. After designing the interiors for this vessel and showcasing it at the 2012 Miami Boat Show, she garnered commissions for 12 additional projects. Her clientele typically comprises affluent and private individuals who share a deep appreciation for the water, the simplicity of boating, and the tranquility it offers. These clients often own multiple homes globally, and their yachts, manufactured in China, are shipped worldwide to destinations including Australia, Venezuela, England, Germany, Spain, and the Mediterranean. The construction process involves meticulous planning, with all materials, fabrics, lighting, sinks, and fixtures shipped to China for an 18 to 20-month build time. A recent project highlighted in the article is an 80-foot Marlow Explorer designed for a Boca Grande couple. This yacht was conceived to facilitate entertaining guests and accommodate extended living on board with their two dogs, particularly during summers in the Northeast. For this project, Dabney incorporated luxurious materials, including fine crystal, all selected for their suitability in marine applications. Dabney notes a departure from traditional navy-blue marine aesthetics, preferring to use colors that resonate with her clients' personal tastes. She deliberately avoids nautical clichés such as stripes and lifesaver motifs, drawing parallels to how she approaches land-based interior design by steering clear of common decorative tropes like monkeys and palm trees. Client preferences vary significantly. Some prioritize durability and ease of maintenance, wanting surfaces that can withstand the rigors of boating, such as wet bathing suits or children eating on sofas. Others seek highly elegant and beautiful interiors. Dabney recently completed a 106-foot yacht, her largest to date, for a couple with teenage boys, necessitating a design that balanced beauty with extreme durability. For long-range cruising yachts, clients often desire interiors that resemble a well-appointed home, reflecting their intention to live on board for extended periods. Material selection is paramount in yacht design. Dabney advises against silk due to its susceptibility to sun rot, fading, and water spotting. Instead, she favors robust alternatives like Sunbrella acrylic fibers, commercial-grade Trivera CS polyester fabrics, and other acrylic-polyester blends. Fabric inlays on walls are utilized for their sound-controlling properties and ability to brighten interior spaces. For metal finishes, she specifies cast brass or stainless steel, materials chosen for their resistance to pitting or discoloration, though she acknowledges that brass will naturally acquire a patina. Dabney is currently under consideration for the design of a 246-foot yacht, a significant project intended solely for the owner's personal use, which would represent a major achievement in her career. #YachtDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #MarineDesign #TextileSelection #SusanDabney #CustomDesign #Sarasota

Byron Bay architect Sam Zaher has completed a personal project, a home in the hinterland village of Federal that integrates both elegant design and environmental consciousness. The residence draws inspiration from mid-century modern aesthetics, blending 1960s style with 21st-century liveability. Its design features clean lines, geometric elements, a monochrome palette, and a diverse mix of materials such as stone, concrete, metal, and timber. Practical additions include a large chef's kitchen, spacious bathrooms, a home gym, and a swimming pool, all contributing to a modern standard of living. A key aspect of Zaher's home is its seamless integration with the natural surroundings of the Byron Bay hinterland. The design incorporates floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors, maximizing views of the rugged bushland and verdant valleys. This emphasis on indoor-outdoor living allows residents to feel connected to the environment, a priority for Zaher. The master bedroom exemplifies this design philosophy, offering a camping-like experience with large glass doors that provide views of the garden. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the home is also a model of sustainable design, reflecting Zaher Architects' commitment to minimizing environmental impact. During the construction phase, Zaher prioritized the use of recycled materials. For instance, timber used in the home was sourced from a fallen tree on the property, and front door handles were crafted from salvaged rusty water pipes discovered during excavation. These efforts aim to significantly reduce the building's carbon footprint. The finished home includes numerous eco-friendly features, such as rainwater harvesting systems, double-glazing, low-emissivity glass, and thermal curtains to improve heat retention and reduce transfer. A ducted fireplace efficiently distributes heat throughout the house. Additionally, extensive solar panels have been installed on the roof, with future plans for battery storage to enable the home to operate entirely off-grid. This project represents a significant achievement for Zaher, who has worked in the Byron Bay region for over two decades, allowing him to create a stylish and sustainable dwelling for himself after years of designing for clients. #ByronBay #DreamHomes #NewSouthWales #Sustainability #SustainableHomes #SustainableLiving

NFL star Russell Wilson and his wife, singer Ciara, have acquired a new mansion in the Denver area for $25 million, following the listing of their previous Bellevue, Washington, estate for $36 million. This new Colorado residence, despite its lower price point, is considerably larger than their former home, spanning a massive 20,060 square feet. It holds the distinction of being the most expensive home ever sold in Colorado's history, surpassing the previous record of $15.7 million set by ex-Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan. The property is situated in Colorado's Cherry Hill Village, a neighborhood that is also home to other notable NFL figures such as Peyton Manning and John Elway. The two-story estate is designed to accommodate the couple and their three children: Future, Sienna, and Win. Although the mansion features only four bedrooms, it dedicates extensive space to various recreational activities and entertainment facilities. These amenities include a game room, a private home theater, a basketball court, and a yoga room. A notable feature is the 2,590-square-foot indoor swimming pool, which comes with its own pool house. The pool house offers ample seating and large windows that provide natural light, complemented by vaulted ceilings with exposed wood detailing that contrasts with the white walls. The grounds also encompass a hot tub and a spa. Adjacent to each other, the basketball gym and yoga room offer convenient access for pre-workout stretching. The yoga room is characterized by sleek white floors and walls, creating a clean aesthetic, and features a wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling mirror for form monitoring. A large window, made of sports damage-resistant glass, overlooks the two-story basketball gym, which includes one standard hoop and lined hardwood flooring. These spaces highlight the mansion's emphasis on both active and leisurely pursuits. The residence boasts an impressive twelve bathrooms in total, comprising five half-bathrooms, six full bathrooms, and one three-fourths bathroom, resulting in a three-to-one bathroom-to-bedroom ratio. According to a 2018 real estate listing, several bathrooms are elegantly appointed with natural stone countertops and flooring, effective lighting, and generous storage solutions. The primary bathroom further features a large jet-action tub. The dominant interior design scheme for most of the home consists of white walls paired with black accents, creating a contemporary feel. However, the presence of six fireplaces, exposed beams, and integrated smart storage systems contributes to a sense of warmth and coziness throughout the expansive property. A distinctive room within the mansion is the blue wood-paneled dining room, which also incorporates black accents. One half of this dining room is equipped with floor-to-ceiling shelves, which were shown filled with books in the original listing. Other walls in the dining room feature large paneled windows and glass doors that open onto one of the home's porches. The estate is set on a 5.34-acre lot, characterized by meticulously landscaped lawns and gardens visible from all angles. An outdoor stone fireplace is centrally located within a dedicated section of the garden, providing an additional leisure area. The extensive outdoor space includes a kitchen, multiple seating areas, and dining tables, offering numerous options for outdoor activities during Colorado's summer months. The European-inspired exterior of the home is clad in light brown stones, a material also utilized for some of the indoor fireplaces. The detached garage, which provides four of the nine total parking spaces, mirrors the main house's exterior and includes a guest apartment complete with one bedroom, one bathroom, and a full kitchen. This comprehensive array of features ensures a luxurious and comfortable living environment for the Wilson family. #celebrityHome #luxuryMansion #ColoradoRealEstate #homeDesign #interiorDesign #sportsStarsHomes #entertainmentRooms #EuropeanDesign #expansiveEstate

This article showcases Gwentland, a magnificent semi-detached property located on Marine Parade in Penarth, widely considered one of South Wales' most prestigious addresses. The house, on the market for £1.65 million, combines period grandeur with modern amenities, offering a blend of historical character and contemporary comfort across four substantial floors. The property's design emphasizes its original features, including marble fireplaces, intricate decorative plasterwork, panelled doors, wooden floors, wall mouldings, and leaded windows, all meticulously restored and preserved. Upon entering, the spacious hall immediately conveys the home's grandeur, functioning as a room in itself, complete with a fireplace and ample space for a grand piano. The ground floor features three substantial rooms rich in period details, a stunning kitchen, and an impressive orangery. The kitchen is equipped with high-specification finishes, including granite worktops, a large island with seating, an induction hob, an AGA range, and dual sinks, with French doors opening to the side garden. The conservatory, accessible from both the kitchen and dining room, boasts a tiled floor, pitched roof, exposed brick feature wall, and a wood-burning stove, with bi-fold doors leading to a raised seating area and garden access. The formal dining room, a highlight of the ground floor, showcases high ceilings, incredible plasterwork, remarkable cornicing, an intricately carved fireplace, deep skirtings, and a wood-block floor, embodying the house's opulent character. The drawing room continues this theme with decorative mouldings, panelling, coving, and an original fireplace, complemented by a bay window offering stunning views, ideal for a reading nook. A grand staircase, illuminated by a large window with garden views, leads to the upper floors. The first floor houses the principal suite, a luxurious sanctuary featuring sea views from a sizable bay window. This suite includes a spacious ensuite bathroom and a private dressing room with extensive built-in wardrobes, which could potentially serve as a sixth bedroom. Additionally, the first floor offers two more substantial bedrooms, each with a large window or dual aspect and a period fireplace. The top floor adds two further bedrooms, bringing the total to five, with the option for six. One of the loft bedrooms includes an ensuite with a statement roll-top bath, offering views of the night sky. Beyond the interior, Gwentland provides practical spaces such as a utility room and a double garage. The property's front garden is privately enclosed by mature hedgerows and trees, featuring a generous lawn, a cascading water feature, a pond, a fountain, ample seating and entertaining areas, and a private driveway. The location offers daily views of the seafront and a landmark Art Deco building, with easy access to a pier, pebble beach, promenade, and coastal paths. Penarth, frequently listed among Wales' best places to live, provides a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes within walking distance, as well as numerous parks, sports clubs, and social events. Its reputation for good schools makes it appealing to families and commuters, with Cardiff approximately 20 minutes away. #Penarth #MarineParade #LuxuryHome #PeriodProperty #WelshHomes #PropertyForSale #HomeDesign #CoastalLiving

The article delves into the creative world of Austin Carrier and Alex Mutter-Rottmayer, known professionally as the Hommeboys, a rising interior design duo based in Sonoma. It highlights their energetic and sustainably minded approach to design within the burgeoning Sonoma design community. The Hommeboys have gained recognition for their contemporary California design, notably for the tasting room at Healdsburg’s Marine Layer Wines, and have recently collaborated with Crate & Barrel, with a new furniture line also in the pipeline. The core of the article focuses on their personal home, a richly layered barn-like apartment situated on a family property just east of Sonoma town. This space serves as both their residence and a creative hub, functioning as a testing ground for new design ideas, materials, and techniques. The couple has extensively remodeled their apartment multiple times, revealing various design phases like layers of an old house. This hands-on experimentation, such as the application of Roman clay to walls or the exposure of wooden ceiling trusses, allows them to firsthand experience and evaluate concepts before proposing them to clients. Their living area showcases a playful blend of conversation pieces, including a specimen cactus, a tall Windsor-style armchair, and prototypes from their upcoming furniture line. The space is characterized by saturated colors and diverse textures. The kitchen, with its dark, dramatic aesthetic and boldly veined stone counters, evolved over time, reflecting their philosophy of prioritizing quality and allowing design elements to be added in stages as resources permit. This approach mirrors how they work with clients on larger projects, advocating for staged renovations focused on lasting quality. Downstairs, their new design studio provides a dedicated workspace, featuring wenge wood cabinetry for samples and a library of design books. This separation helps to distinguish work from leisure, though the couple admits their passion for design means their minds are always engaged. They emphasize their collaborative process, both with each other and with clients, seeing client feedback as an opportunity to evolve and enhance their designs. The studio's connection to the outdoors, with large windows and vintage Egyptian doors, integrates nature into their creative environment. The surrounding gardens, which include raised vegetable beds, olive trees, and propagated San Pedro cacti, reflect their connection to the land and the growth they experience both personally and professionally. The article concludes by attributing their success to their unwavering passion for their work. Additionally, the article provides a curated list of the Hommeboys' favorite local spots in Sonoma, including design and salvage shops, a bamboo and palm nursery, and wineries, further illustrating their connection to the Sonoma community and its offerings. #InteriorDesign #SonomaHome #HommeboysDesign #CaliforniaDesign #HomeRenovation #CreativeLiving #SustainableDesign #CrateAndBarrel #FurnitureDesign

Dana Esser, an interior designer and creative, discusses her business, Dana Michele Design, and its profound impact on the daily lives of occupants in the spaces she designs. Esser highlights the significance of her work in creating therapeutic environments, such as offices for therapists and psychiatrists. These projects involved extensive research into layout, audio and visual privacy, color, texture, and furniture selections to ensure patients feel welcome, calm, comfortable, and safe. The insights gained from designing these therapeutic spaces are now applied to all her projects, ensuring they enhance the well-being of occupants and meet functional needs. Dana Michele Design distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to clients, with Esser acting as a 'client advocate.' With eight years of corporate interior design experience, she is now directly involved in every project, ensuring personalized attention and expertise for each client. The design process at Dana Michele Design integrates spatial intelligence with creative intuition, focusing on solving complex puzzles and understanding human needs to create spaces that resonate deeply. This process begins with in-depth client engagement to understand their aspirations and challenges, leading to designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also supportive of their present and future needs. Esser emphasizes the importance of professional integrity and personal well-being, stating a rule to only accept projects where her team is respected and valued, especially as a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry. Looking ahead, Esser plans to launch a non-profit arm of Dana Michele Design. This initiative will focus on community engagement by partnering with organizations that provide housing and support to vulnerable communities, aiming to create nurturing environments that empower individuals to thrive. The success of Dana Michele Design is attributed to human connection and the transformative power of thoughtful design, driven by a commitment to clients and the wider community. Outside of her professional life, Esser shares recommendations for enjoying Los Angeles with a visiting friend. Her ideal week would include coffee from Primo on Montana Street, brunch at Courtyard Kitchen in Santa Monica, leisurely strolls along the boardwalk, and beach volleyball. Nature excursions would involve hiking the Los Leones trail in Pacific Palisades for panoramic ocean views. Cultural experiences would include visiting the Broad or Hammer museum exhibits. Evenings would feature live entertainment at venues like the Hollywood Bowl or Aviator Nation’s Dreamland in Malibu, or attending a comedy show. Dining options range from Fia in Santa Monica to Osteria Mozza, followed by a night out in West Hollywood or Hollywood. Esser acknowledges several individuals who have significantly influenced her journey. She credits her family for providing essential physical and financial security and unwavering love. Her high school art teacher is recognized for channeling her creativity and introducing her to interior design at 16, a pivotal moment in discovering her passion. Lastly, she highlights the continuous inspiration, encouragement, and love from her closest friends, whom she considers her chosen family, calling them her backbone and biggest cheerleaders, especially when she experiences imposter syndrome. #InteriorDesign #CreativeEntrepreneur #TherapeuticSpaces #ClientAdvocacy #CommunityImpact #FemaleEntrepreneur #NonProfitInitiative #LosAngelesLifestyle #PersonalDevelopment

Scheana Shay, a cast member of *Vanderpump Rules*, along with her husband Brock Davies, has acquired a new residence in Los Angeles. This purchase places them among several other *Vanderpump Rules* co-stars, including Jax Taylor, Brittany Cartwright, Tom Sandoval, Ariana Madix, and James Kennedy, who have also settled in the San Fernando Valley. The couple's new property is a modern farmhouse featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and spanning 3,839 square feet. Originally built in 2016, the home was listed in April 2023 for $2.795 million and was ultimately purchased by Shay and Davies for $2.5 million. The exterior of the modern farmhouse incorporates stone accents and a paved driveway that leads to a garage. Inside, European white oak wide-plank hardwood floors are installed throughout the open-concept living spaces. The formal living room is characterized by a stone veneer fireplace, and large windows allow for ample natural light. The dining room accommodates a table for eight people, illuminated by a suspended light fixture. Adjacent to the dining area, the kitchen is equipped with Carrara marble countertops, Viking Professional appliances, and an eight-burner stove. Additional features in the kitchen include a Butler’s Pantry and a locking wine fridge. The residence also includes a family room, designed with sufficient space for their two-year-old daughter, Summer Moon. French doors in the family room provide access to the patio. A dedicated office space is also part of the home's layout. The upper level houses four of the five bedrooms, including a master suite. This master suite features a fireplace, a balcony that overlooks the backyard, and vaulted ceilings. It also boasts two spacious custom-built walk-in closets. The master bathroom is appointed with marble flooring, a double vanity, a soaking tub, and a large tiled shower with an oversized rain shower head. Each of the guest bedrooms includes its own ensuite bathroom. The backyard is designed for privacy with hedges and features a sizable patio that can accommodate outdoor seating and dining arrangements. A large pool and spa combination occupies a significant portion of the backyard. The property is further enhanced with a full-house sound system, an alarm system, and video surveillance. *Vanderpump Rules* season 11 is currently airing on Tuesdays at 8/7c on Bravo. #ScheanaShay #VanderpumpRules #LosAngelesRealEstate #ModernFarmhouse #CelebrityHomes #HomeDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #BrockDavies #RealityTV

A newly constructed five-bedroom family retreat spanning 400 acres in Sonoma exemplifies a commitment to designing homes that coexist harmoniously with the natural environment. This project is a collaborative effort between interior design firm Studio Collins Weir and architecture firm Turnbull Griffin Haesloop. The architects uphold the design philosophy of the late William Turnbull Jr., known for his contributions to the iconic Sea Ranch community, which emphasized integration with nature. The homeowners, after spending a decade living part-time on the land in a yurt and immersing themselves in its landscape, selected these firms due to their shared dedication to site-responsive design. Initially, the architects considered a wood-clad structure, but regional wildfires prompted a shift to a Corten steel exterior for increased resilience. The residence offers panoramic 360-degree views and is organized around a covered terrace that features an open-fire kitchen. This outdoor space seamlessly connects to the interior, which includes an open-plan kitchen and living area with a distinctive sunken couch. The covered terrace also provides access to the pool and a fire pit, strategically positioned at the edge of the hillside. Inside, the home’s interior design deviates from the minimalist or monochromatic aesthetics often seen in contemporary homes. Instead, it embraces a vibrant and varied color palette. Specific rooms are adorned with unique color combinations, such as indigo and green, plum and gold, or fern green, mustard, and orange. These distinct color schemes extend into each en-suite bathroom through the use of handmade tiles sourced from Sonoma Tilemakers, Heath, and Cle Tile. Furnishings within the retreat include bespoke pieces crafted by California artists Jonathan Cross and Dan John Anderson. A large Davide Groppi lamp, playfully designed to resemble the moon, pays homage to the region's 'Valley of the Moon' moniker. Adding a personal touch to the project, one of the homeowners contributed their craftsmanship by constructing the cedar-plank bunk beds and ladder in the children's room, a design conceptualized by Studio Collins Weir. This blend of professional design and personal contribution further enhances the retreat’s connection to its surroundings and its inhabitants. #ModernHomeSonoma #SonomaValleyHome #StudioCollinsWeir #TurnbullGriffinHaesloop #SeaRanchStyle #SustainableDesign #CortenSteel #InteriorDesign #Architecture #LuxuryRetreat

This article explores the extensive and diverse real estate portfolio of actress Diane Keaton, highlighting her passion for home flipping and distinctive architectural taste. Keaton's properties, predominantly located on the West Coast with a brief foray into the East Coast, reflect her unique aesthetic, often characterized by a blend of classic design and thoughtful renovation. Her journey in real estate began in 1976 with the purchase of a unit in Manhattan's prestigious San Remo Condominium. This acquisition, made at the age of 30, marked the start of her deep interest in architecture, as she appreciated the apartment's open layout and panoramic views of New York City. Upon her move to the West Coast, Keaton acquired an architectural marvel in 1991: Lloyd Wright's Samuel-Novarro home. This Mayan Revival residence, built in 1928, captivated her with its geometric design and oxidized copper details. Despite its unique style, Keaton meticulously renovated the 2,700-square-foot cliffside abode while preserving Wright's original architectural vision. The property, which also housed other notable figures like Leonard Bernstein and Christina Ricci, was later listed for $4.295 million in 2019. Between 2002 and 2005, Keaton owned an 8,239-square-foot Spanish-style home in Bel-Air. She collaborated with designer Stephen Shadley to refurbish the 1920s residence before selling it for $16.5 million. Shadley noted Keaton's meticulous approach, likening her design preparation to that of a film role, involving detailed binders of photos and ideas for each room. Her flipping prowess extended to Laguna Beach, where she purchased an oceanfront property for $7.5 million in 2004, spent two years on restoration, and then resold it for $12.75 million. This 1928 Spanish Mediterranean home retained its charm with high-vaulted ceilings, interior courtyards, and scenic views. Keaton's relationship with a Beverly Hills Spanish Colonial Revival home, built in 1927, was a testament to her dedication to design. Initially hesitant due to the extensive work required, she eventually purchased the property in 2007 for $8.1 million. She then added 500 square feet and reimagined the exterior before selling it to Ryan Murphy in 2010. The Pacific Palisades area also saw Keaton's influence, where she owned two properties. The first was the Alfred Newman House, a 4,386-square-foot home designed by Lloyd Wright, which she bought for $9.1 million in 2007 and restored, incorporating Wright's classic details with an updated kitchen, selling it for $10.75 million in 2009. In 2012, she acquired a Cape Cod-style home in the same area for $5.6 million, which featured A-list amenities like a home gym, private theater, wine room, and roof deck. She sold this property for $6.995 million in 2015 after renovations. Her Los Angeles compound in Sullivan Canyon, known as "The House That Pinterest Built," was particularly significant. Keaton dedicated years to transforming this 8,000-square-foot property into her dream home, detailed in her book. This space showcased a blend of concrete, brick, and wood, along with a spacious pantry and kitchen equipped with Sub-Zero appliances, embodying her unique take on a modern farmhouse aesthetic. She owned this home for 14 years and listed it for $28.9 million shortly before her passing. Finally, in 2018, Keaton purchased a 19th-century adobe-style home in Tucson's historic Barrio Viejo for $1.5 million. This retreat was updated with modern touches, including a renovated kitchen and swimming pool, and was listed for $2.6 million in 2020. #DianeKeaton #RealEstate #HomeFlipping #ArchitecturalDesign #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaHomes #HistoricProperties #DesignInspiration

The purchasing and customization of mega-mansions by the super-rich and famous involve intricate processes and extraordinary features, often highlighting a desire for privacy, security, and personalized luxury. Before even viewing a property, potential buyers, guided by experienced luxury real estate agents like Dolly Lenz, must typically verify their wealth through reference letters or bank statements. This stringent vetting process ensures that only genuinely affluent individuals gain access to these exclusive properties. Once qualified, clients often present real estate agents with extensive and sometimes unusual requests, ranging from specific musical instruments to perfume refrigerators or rooftop beehives. Many high-profile individuals prefer their teams to preview properties, often buying homes sight unseen to maintain their anonymity. Privacy is a paramount concern for many celebrities and ultra-wealthy individuals. They often employ methods like setting up trusts or limited liability companies to acquire properties, thus keeping their names off public real estate documents. This strategy allows them to maintain a low profile and avoid unwanted public attention regarding their lavish purchases. When selling properties, sellers occasionally sweeten deals with luxury incentives such as high-end cars, helicopters, or club memberships. Property flippers like Scott Disick often include all furnishings and art, providing a turnkey luxury experience. Upon acquisition, customization becomes a key aspect of mega-mansion ownership. Celebrities frequently invest heavily in transforming their properties to reflect their unique tastes and needs. Examples include rapper French Montana converting a lounge into a jungle-themed movie theater or a Bel Air mansion designed with gold fixtures, a 50,000-crystal chandelier, and a car viewing gallery. Many owners engage renowned interior designers like Martyn Lawrence Bullard or Kelly Wearstler to achieve their desired aesthetic. These designers often work with luxury brands to create bespoke environments that exude opulence and individuality. Beyond living spaces, mega-mansions often feature specialized areas for collections and security. Large, customized closets or 'glam rooms' are common, designed to house extensive collections of fashion items, as exemplified by Kylie Jenner's shoe and handbag display. The wealthy also curate enviable collections of cars, art, and unique memorabilia, storing them in bespoke environments, sometimes even featuring illuminated shelving for display. High-value possessions are often protected within luxury safes, such as Boca do Lobo's Millionaire Safe, designed for both security and aesthetic appeal. Garages are transformed into supercar showrooms, accommodating multiple luxury vehicles, as seen in Jeffree Star's pink supercar collection. Security and privacy extend to the architectural design, with luxury bunkers, panic rooms, and advanced security systems becoming standard. Companies like Oppidum create NATO-standard ballistic and blast-protected bunkers, built deep underground to provide safe retreats. Some homeowners implement extreme measures, such as bulletproof windows, underground bunkers, and fog systems to disorient intruders, like in America's 'safest home' designed by Al Corbi. Basements are often repurposed from storage into extravagant entertainment zones, featuring bowling alleys, sports bars, nightclubs, or casinos. Other over-the-top luxuries include car elevators for penthouses, quartz bathtubs, and solid gold finishes. The acquisition of surrounding land, as done by Oprah Winfrey, further enhances privacy and creates expansive estates. Celebrities also engage in property swaps, sometimes purchasing homes previously owned by their idols, and many are known for their generosity towards household staff, highlighting a sense of appreciation for their employees. #MegaMansion #LuxuryRealEstate #CelebrityHomes #HomeCustomization #LuxuryInteriors #AdvancedSecurity #PrivateProperty #AffluentLifestyle #WealthManagement

The article offers a tour of Academy Award-winning actress Diane Keaton's 8,000 square-foot Los Angeles farmhouse, a home she built and designed over three and a half years. Keaton, known for her passion for flipping houses, transformed a "crumbly structure" into this rustic residence, which is also featured in her book, "The House That Pinterest Built." Her design process heavily relied on Pinterest for gathering, organizing, and illustrating her ideas, resulting in a home filled with Pinterest-worthy aesthetics. The farmhouse showcases Keaton's talent for style and structure, incorporating numerous country decor elements that are highlighted throughout the tour. The design features distressed brick, chicken wire cabinet fronts, raw wood beams, and shiplap-covered walls, creating a distinct modern-rustic aesthetic. Repurposed vintage items, such as old chicken feeders transformed into pendant lights, add unique character. The home also includes subway tile and black steel-frame French door-style shower doors, blending classic and contemporary country elements. A plethora of antiques are integrated into the decor, contributing to the home's overall charm and a sense of history. The article provides detailed glimpses into various rooms, including the kitchen, dining room, bathroom, back patio, studio, and living room. For each space, specific design elements are pointed out, and suggestions for achieving a similar look are provided with product recommendations. For instance, the kitchen features a statement pendant and galvanized baskets, while the dining room is outfitted with Windsor side chairs. The bathroom highlights a farmhouse industrial light fixture, and the back patio is shown with a wall mount barn light. The studio boasts glass doors, and the living room is illuminated by cable pendant lights. Keaton's farmhouse is presented as a testament to her design capabilities and her ability to bring a distinct vision to life, leveraging platforms like Pinterest to curate and implement her ideas effectively. The article positions Keaton as an influential figure in the modern-rustic aesthetic, drawing parallels with designers like Joanna Gaines. The tour ultimately emphasizes Keaton's deep involvement in the creation of her dream home, from construction to the final decorative touches. #DianeKeaton #FarmhouseDesign #ModernRustic #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #CountryDecor #PinterestInspired #HouseFlipping #CelebrityHomes

The article highlights the home of Dana and Bill Lynch in the Serenbe neighborhood, emphasizing its sophisticated farmhouse style and the intentional use of natural materials. Dana Lynch, a seasoned builder and interior designer, designed the house with a layered approach, combining various elements in her kitchen, including plaster walls, three different stones, four distinct cabinet materials and finishes, four metals, and a wood floor. This seemingly complex mix resulted in a soothing and organic aesthetic that defines the entire home. The Lynches chose Serenbe for its community-centric environment, particularly its approach to parenting. Architect Ryan Duffey, known for his preference for natural materials, collaborated with the Lynches on the custom house. The exterior features a stucco-and-cypress combination with a wood shingle roof. The house's U-shaped structure, comprising a two-story main building flanked by a master suite wing and a garage wing, forms a charming central courtyard and evokes a pastoral grange. This design choice contributes to the home's European-industrial charm, further enhanced by metal doors and windows throughout. Inside, Dana Lynch's design philosophy prioritizes a neutral color palette and a rich interplay of textures and materials. Wood, stone, leather, worn metals, hand-hewn plaster, and iron are prominently featured. She expresses a particular fondness for genuine, aged brass and natural elements, believing they offer honesty and timelessness over fleeting trends. While generally favoring natural elements, she also incorporates touches of glamour, such as a fine art collection in the foyer and distinctive lighting fixtures, showing a penchant for "shiny objects," including Lucite. The kitchen, a focal point of her design, features poured concrete countertops and custom cabinetry. Counter-to-ceiling metal shelves in front of windows provide practical storage without obstructing natural light. The master bathroom is designed with a dramatic rectangular bathtub, reflecting Dana's personal preference, and includes double vanities made of poured concrete, complemented by gilded mirrors with faucets mounted directly on them. The sitting room includes a navy sectional, which Dana upgraded from Ikea by painting its legs gold. Dana Lynch, originally an attorney, now dedicates her career to interior design. Her work will be showcased in the _Organic Living Magazine_ show house in Serenbe and in projects within the Pinewood Forrest neighborhood. Her design approach is characterized by a lawyer's attention to detail combined with an intuitive passion for aesthetics, and she has learned to appreciate and integrate asymmetry and imperfection in her designs. The house is set against a wildflower meadow, with a pool, further enhancing its natural and serene ambiance. #Serenbe #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AgrarianArchitecture #NaturalMaterials #DanaLynch #RyanDuffey #CustomHome #EuropeanFarmhouseStyle

September and Michael Votta, co-founder of Tuckernuck, undertook a renovation of their 2,310-square-foot Georgetown rowhouse, which they acquired in 2021. The objective was to create a harmonious aesthetic, introduce a cohesive color scheme, and imbue the space with elements reflecting the family's narrative, while also accommodating the demands of a busy family life with two young boys. The existing renovations had established a functional living space, but a unified design vision was still required. Melissa Welker, the principal designer from Atlanta-based Melissa Lacy Design, was enlisted to lead the project. Her scope of work encompassed the living room, dining room, kitchen, back terrace, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms. Welker's design philosophy centers on an elevated, well-curated palette that fosters a dialogue between various textures, styles, and historical periods. She emphasizes the importance of a strong client-designer relationship, built on trust and mutual understanding, especially given the inherent stresses and potential complications of design projects. Her initial approach involves in-depth research with clients to identify their preferences, perceptions of specific rooms and elements, and to establish a common visual language. Key goals for the renovation included increasing natural light throughout the home, enhancing storage capabilities, and unifying the entire residence with a chic and cohesive style. Given September Votta's profession, working extensively with fabrics, the design aimed to provide a visual respite from patterns, promoting a sense of calm. The design process involved developing mood boards through image selection, online inspiration, and sketches to ensure the space felt authentic, original, and sophisticated. The rowhouse, originally constructed in 1889, presented challenges, particularly in creating effective storage solutions. Welker's team implemented innovative ideas, such as adding a closet off the dining room for storing strollers, coats, and bags, a suggestion from the client. A custom bench with hidden storage was also integrated into the entry area to conceal shoes, packages, and mail. In the living room, the primary objective was to maximize light exposure, a common issue in rowhouses with windows only at the front and back. The design focused on creating an airy, bright, and cozy atmosphere with ample seating for the family of four. The space was conceived to be both family-friendly and elegantly edited. Notable elements included window treatment fabric from Rose Tarlow, sofa fabric from McKinnon and Harris, and chair fabric from Pierre Frey. Additional custom touches included a Besselink & Jones floor lamp with a KRB NYC lampshade, a Mike Diaz mirror from Blackman Cruz, and Forbes & Lomax light switches. The dining room's design commenced with a piece of art by Marcel Rozek, sourced from Illa Gaunt Art Consulting, which served as a foundational inspiration. A deliberate contrast was created between a Cox London chandelier and the modern artwork. A plate rack, displaying plates from La Touile a Loup, addressed an previously awkward wall space. Rose Tarlow fabric was used for the chairs, and linen wallcovering by Patterson Flynn via Schumacher completed the room's aesthetic. The kitchen, having recently undergone a refresh, received Rimini Rib wallcovering from Schumacher. Initially applied to the walls, the material's aesthetic appeal led to its extension onto the ceiling. Custom doors with LeMont hardware and floors painted with Farrow & Ball's Slipper Satin further enhanced the space. The primary suite was designed to optimize livability and introduce serene elements. Electric custom shades were installed to control light. Fabric from the French retailer Antoinette Poisson, a favorite of September's, was incorporated into the headboard, a vintage bench, lamp shades, and the bathroom. Other additions included Dedar fabric for a yellow settee, Soane Britain sconces, and a rope mirror from Mecox NYC in the bathroom. The overall impact of the redesign is described as transforming the home into a sanctuary through thoughtful integration of art, texture, and spatial flow. Large-scale tapestries, artwork, and strategic mirror placement on the main floor helped to anchor the spaces. The calming linen wallcovering and subtle textures contributed significantly to the home's enhanced ambiance. The family expressed contentment with the increased storage and the serene, beautiful palette established throughout their residence. #GeorgetownRowhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MelissaLacyDesign #FamilyHome #LuxuryInteriors #StorageSolutions #CohesiveDesign #WashingtonDC

Shutterstock founder Jon Oringer and his wife Talia embarked on a search for a home in Miami Beach that would align with their vision of a welcoming oasis, distinct from the prevailing aesthetic characterized by aggressive geometrics and glossy surfaces. Their quest led them to a property overlooking Biscayne Bay, which, despite requiring significant renovation, offered an exceptional location and views. To transform this property into their dream home, they enlisted the expertise of AD100 interior designer Kelly Behun, who had previously worked on their Bridgehampton residence. Behun is recognized for her ability to create interiors that blend fanciful elements with refined sophistication, resulting in spaces that are both imaginative and serene. The home’s architectural transformation was initiated by Blaze Makoid of BMA Architects, who softened the exterior’s angularity with bronze and wood accents and introduced a sculptural staircase to enhance the interior’s dynamism. This established a visual language emphasizing fluidity and warmth, a quality the homeowners desired. Behun further collaborated with To Better Days Building, another AD PRO Directory firm, to realize the couple's vision. Within this architectural framework, Behun curated a vibrant collection of pieces from a global network of artisans, combining them with striking art and vintage items. Each room's design is often anchored by a central element, such as a unique lighting fixture or a captivating artwork, which harmonizes the color, pattern, and scale. Contemporary materials like white oak, plush fabrics, and muted metals are employed in sculptural forms, grounding the whimsical elements in an atmosphere of elegance and luxury. The entryway, for instance, features a custom stained glass light fixture by Greek artist Kostas Lambridis, whose design reflects the client's personal narrative. This piece hangs above a Mimi table by Garcé & Dimofski, complemented by Martino Gamper circus stools and a woven chair from Space Available Studio, all echoing the fixture's colors. Similarly, a stained glass fixture by Maarten de Ceulaer commands attention in the dining room, balancing a substantial table by Yabu Pushelberg. In the double-height library, four ceiling pendants by Bennet Schlesinger, inspired by cumulus clouds, playfully disrupt the room's formal upholstered seating arrangements. The lounge is enlivened by a cut-paper collage of dancing women by Heidi Lanino, set against curvaceous furniture by designers like Achille Salvagni and Chris Wolston. For the children’s playroom, a Nuage fixture by Wout Wessemius creates an ethereal ambiance. Beyond individual pieces, foliage plays a crucial role in animating the spaces. Large Alocasia Calidora leaves at the second-floor atrium window add drama to the primary bedroom. Landscape architect Raymond Jungles collaborated on the home's vegetation, including an immense American oil palm at the entryway that helps scale down the property, contributing to a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere despite its grandeur. The overall design achieves a ravishing and rejuvenating effect, perceived as both sublime and sensual by the homeowners. Jon Oringer praised Behun’s capacity to translate their identity into the living space, affirming that the designer successfully delivered a home that is uniquely theirs. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #MiamiArchitecture #ContemporaryDesign #CustomFurniture #ArtCollection #LandscapeDesign #ArchitecturalDigest