This Designer Brought Brick Back Into a Colonial in a Big (But Sneaky) Way

Piero Lissoni, art director for Sanlorenzo Yachts and designer of the interiors for the 56-meter superyacht *Virtuosity*, challenges traditional nautical design by advocating for yachts to be conceived as villas rather than conventional maritime vessels. He criticizes the common practice among shipyard architects of incorporating overly ostentatious materials, such as excessive marbles, hides, and exotic woods, which he believes often lead to vulgarity. Instead, Lissoni emphasizes a design philosophy that prioritizes functionality, comfort, and beauty, akin to the aesthetics found in well-designed homes. His approach suggests that luxury should not equate to splashy materials but rather to sophisticated design and practical elegance. Sanlorenzo actively embraces this cross-pollination of ideas by collaborating with architects and designers from outside the nautical industry, including notable names like Dordoni Architetti and Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. Ferruccio Rossi, former general manager and president of superyachts at Sanlorenzo, highlights that these collaborations introduce fresh perspectives and stylistic elements, transforming the conventional interpretation of interior yacht spaces. He notes that while initially challenging to integrate these diverse design philosophies with the complexities of yacht architecture and its relationship with the dynamic marine environment, the shared goal eventually fosters innovation and unique solutions. Lissoni asserts that these 'outsider' perspectives have fundamentally altered design norms in the yachting world, moving away from outdated traditions towards a more modern and airy aesthetic. *Virtuosity* is the second vessel in Sanlorenzo's 57Steel series, with an exterior designed by Zuccon International Project. Bernardo Zuccon describes the 57Steel as a harmonious balance between its internal content and external structure, featuring a rational and simple exterior that discreetly houses its substantial 1,021GT volume. The yacht's design includes slightly forward-raked windscreens and an almost straight bow, giving it an explorer-like appearance, while a long foredeck maintains a light and elegant profile. This exterior design philosophy complements Lissoni’s vision, blurring the lines between a yacht and a land-based villa, especially regarding the seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces, allowing occupants to experience a constantly changing panorama. Key features of *Virtuosity* exemplify this innovative design. The aft deck offers a luxurious outdoor space with a three-by-two-meter heated glass-bottomed pool, complete with massage jets and large sunpads. Symmetrical staircases lead to a expansive 110-square-meter beach club, which can be extended by folding down the transom and two side platforms. This area is enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow from the pool above, creating a serene ambiance. The beach club is equipped with a bar, water toys, and custom furniture, including a Bubble Rock sofa by Living Divani and a large Samsung flat-screen TV concealed behind a magic mirror. A Carrara marble-clad steam room and Technogym fitness equipment further enhance the wellness offerings. Lissoni's sculptural staircase, which connects the main and upper decks, is a standout feature, earning a Judge’s Commendation at the BOAT Design & Innovation Awards. This staircase, constructed from steel with composite and carbon fiber, is more than a functional element; Lissoni envisions it as a 'twilight zone' or an intermediate space. Although the owners requested a banister for safety during rough conditions, the staircase maintains its artistic integrity. The main saloon’s interior reflects Lissoni's preference for high-quality, commercially available furniture from renowned Italian brands like Cassina, Minotti, and B&B Italia, featuring bleached wood walls and ceilings, and Kerakoll cement resin floors. These choices prioritize durability and sophisticated design over custom, potentially less robust, artisan creations. The yacht's layout is designed for both private and charter use, allowing for flexible segmentation of public and private areas. The main deck features an owner’s cabin with a California king-sized bed, Dedar upholstery, and an en suite bathroom with polarized glass sliding doors. Additional cabins on the lower deck are similarly furnished. A significant alteration in *Virtuosity* compared to its sister ship, *Alma*, is the relocation of a second owner’s cabin to the upper deck, which includes a private deck with a spa pool and an office with a green screen for video calls. The upper saloon offers a reconfigurable Francesco Binfaré On the Rocks sofa and a circular dining table for 14. The flybridge, with its DJ console and bridge, completes the yacht’s sophisticated design, underscoring the success of Sanlorenzo's collaboration with outside designers in creating a 'new generation' vessel that blends architectural principles with yacht design. #SuperyachtDesign #YachtInteriors #PieroLissoni #Sanlorenzo #Virtuosity #NauticalArchitecture #LuxuryYacht #ZucconInternationalProject #CustomYacht

This article details a recent remodel project undertaken by Studio McGee in Maryland, focusing on transforming a client's childhood home to better suit her young family. The project involved a comprehensive renovation of a Cape Cod-style house, aiming to synthesize the client's long-held dreams for the space with the design team's expertise. The scope of work included significant structural changes, such as moving interior walls, along with the installation of new finishes and the selection of furniture tailored to the client's unique aesthetic. The core challenge and opportunity lay in respecting the home's inherent character and 'good bones' while introducing modern functionality and style. The article emphasizes the collaborative process between the client, who brought a deep personal connection to the house, and the design team, who translated those sentiments into a cohesive design plan. It highlights the importance of balancing preservation with modernization in heritage remodels, ensuring that the updated space feels both fresh and deeply personal. The remodel aimed to create a home that not only accommodates the practical needs of a growing family but also resonates with the client's nostalgic attachment to the property. The project serves as an example of how thoughtful design can update a home for contemporary living while honoring its past. The successful integration of new design elements with existing architectural features demonstrates how interior design can evolve a space without erasing its history, offering valuable insights for individuals considering similar renovation projects. The transformation showcases how a well-executed remodel can breathe new life into a beloved family home, making it suitable for future generations while retaining its cherished heritage. The article implicitly suggests that such projects require careful planning, a deep understanding of the client's vision, and a creative approach to problem-solving, especially when dealing with pre-existing structures and personal attachments to a space. #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #HeritageHome #CapeCodStyle #FamilyHome #DesignProcess #ArchitecturalPreservation #Modernization #StudioMcGee

German schmear is a centuries-old brick treatment technique that creates a patinated, rustic, or farmhouse aesthetic on brick surfaces. This method involves applying a thick mortar paste to masonry, giving it a 'smeared' appearance. Originating in Germany in the 1500s, it was initially used for finishing brick and stone walls and is now primarily an aesthetic choice for updating outdated brickwork. German schmear is often more cost-effective than painting a house, making it an attractive option for homeowners seeking a historic feel. However, it's crucial to understand the permanence and specific application requirements of German schmear. Unlike some other brick treatments, mistakes in application can be expensive to rectify, often costing more to remove than the initial application, and in some cases, removal may not be possible at all. Improper application can also lead to moisture getting trapped between the mortar and brick, potentially causing cracks, peeling, or flaking, as the technique, when done with traditional mortar, does not allow the brick to breathe. Therefore, it is important to ensure correct application to prevent these issues. German schmear differs significantly from other popular brick treatments like limewash and whitewash. Limewash uses lime-based paint that calcifies to the brick, allowing it to breathe and creating an Old World finish that patinas over time. This contrasts with German schmear, which, when applied with mortar, does not change over time. Whitewash, on the other hand, refers to a look created by heavily diluting acrylic paint. This is generally not recommended for masonry as acrylic paint can prevent brick from breathing. Experts suggest using a limewash technique to achieve a whitewash look while maintaining the brick's breathability. For those seeking the German schmear aesthetic, there are modern alternatives that offer more flexibility. While traditional German schmear uses a thick mortar paste applied with a trowel, a similar effect can be achieved using limewash. Applying a moderately diluted mixture of Classico Limewash with a trowel can mimic the German schmear technique while providing the breathability of limewash. Another option is using authentic Italian plaster, such as Romabio Travertino, for a thicker, more textured finish. A lime slurry can also be used with a trowel for a look that bridges plaster and paint finishes. This technique is best suited for revitalizing rough, textural, and porous brick, as the irregular surface allows the mortar to adhere effectively. It is not recommended for smooth brick surfaces, which may not accept the finish properly. Additionally, German schmear should be avoided on historic brick that might be soft, cracked, or crumbling, as it is not a solution for structural issues. In such cases, consulting a professional mason for brick preservation is advisable. German schmear is a significant commitment that, when applied correctly to the appropriate brick type, can dramatically enhance a home's exterior with a timeless, rustic charm. #GermanSchmear #BrickTreatment #HomeImprovement #ExteriorDesign #RusticStyle #FarmhouseLook #Limewash #Whitewash #Masonry #HomeRenovation

The Industrial design trend has gained significant popularity, moving away from the conventional minimalist and Scandinavian styles, especially in Singaporean homes. This trend is characterized by exposed building materials such as brick, concrete, and metal, which contribute to a raw, edgy, and textural aesthetic. One of the most defining features of this style is the brick wall, which can be incorporated into various home settings, adding character and warmth. While some homeowners might prefer an industrial look throughout their entire home, others choose to integrate brick elements subtly to create a focal point or a feature wall. The appeal of brick walls lies in their ability to inject a rustic, unfinished charm into a modern space. The textured surface of bricks can break the monotony of smooth, painted walls, providing visual interest and a sense of history. In homes with high ceilings and open layouts, a brick wall can help to define spaces without the need for additional partitions. For instance, in an apartment with a combined living and dining area, a brick wall behind the sofa can anchor the living room, creating a cozy and distinct zone. The irregular surface and varying shades of brick add depth and dimension, making the room feel more inviting. Achieving the industrial brick wall look can be done in several ways, each offering a different level of authenticity and aesthetic impact. The most straightforward method is to expose an existing brick wall, if the building structure permits. This approach reveals the original character of the bricks, often showcasing imperfections and natural variations that add to the charm. However, for homes without existing brick structures, alternatives like brick veneer or wallpaper are viable options. Brick veneer consists of thin slices of real brick that are applied to a surface, offering the genuine texture and appearance of brick without the weight and bulk of full bricks. This is a practical solution for interior applications where structural support for heavy brickwork might be an issue. Alternatively, brick-patterned wallpaper or murals can mimic the look of brick, providing a cost-effective and less permanent solution. Advancements in wallpaper technology have led to realistic textures and designs that can convincingly replicate the appearance of real brick. The versatility of brick walls allows them to complement various interior design styles beyond just industrial. When paired with warm lighting, timber furniture, and soft furnishings, a brick wall can enhance a rustic or farmhouse aesthetic. In contrast, combining a brick wall with sleek metal accents, minimalist furniture, and concrete finishes reinforces a modern industrial vibe. The color of the bricks also plays a crucial role in the overall ambiance. Red bricks evoke a traditional, warm feeling, while whitewashed or painted bricks can create a brighter, more contemporary, or even shabby-chic look. Darker bricks can add a dramatic and sophisticated touch. Beyond aesthetics, brick walls offer practical benefits such as improved thermal mass, which can help regulate indoor temperatures, and sound insulation properties. They are also durable and require minimal maintenance, making them a long-lasting design choice. Incorporating a brick wall, whether as a full feature or a subtle accent, can transform a home by adding texture, character, and a unique visual statement, aligning with the growing trend of embracing raw and authentic materials in interior design. #InteriorDesign #BrickWalls #IndustrialDesign #HomeDecor #TexturalElements #SingaporeHomes #RusticCharm #FeatureWall

The article highlights the significant impact of flooring on the overall aesthetic and feel of a home. It notes that while material choice is crucial, particularly in areas like kitchens and hallways where durability is key, the layout of new stone flooring plays an equally important role in achieving an authentic, aged appearance. Many new flooring installations often look overtly new, lacking the character of established structures. Interior designer Marie Flanigan shares her expert technique for making newly installed stone floors appear as though they have always been a part of the home. Flanigan’s method, as revealed on Instagram, centers on utilizing a specific layout pattern rather than the conventional running bond or brick pattern. She advocates for what she terms the “random linear pattern.” This approach involves using stone pieces of varying lengths but consistent width. For instance, she suggests dimensions such as 18 x 36 inches, 18 x 30 inches, and 18 x 28 inches. By arranging these varied lengths in a less uniform manner, the grout lines become less predictable and more organic. This intentional irregularity in the layout helps to create a natural, unforced look, mimicking the appearance of stone floors laid centuries ago. This technique deviates from the perfectly aligned, symmetrical designs often favored in modern interior schemes. Flanigan explains that the random linear pattern imparts an “old world” feel, making the floor seem hand-laid and imperfect, which she finds particularly appealing for its character-adding qualities. The unevenness in grout lines contributes to a sense of history and authenticity, seamlessly integrating new stone into both older and contemporary home designs. Beyond aesthetics, the article implicitly suggests that such a thoughtful approach to flooring contributes to the longevity of a design's appeal. By making new materials appear timeless, designers can create spaces that are less susceptible to transient trends. The random linear pattern not only enhances visual interest but also helps to blend the new with the old, ensuring that the flooring complements the existing architectural elements or establishes a desired historical ambiance in newer constructions. This tip from Marie Flanigan underscores that creative and deliberate decisions in how materials are installed can profoundly influence a room’s overall atmosphere and perceived age, turning a functional element into a significant design feature. #StoneFlooring #InteriorDesign #MarieFlanigan #FlooringLayout #HomeDecor #AuthenticDesign #TimelessInteriors #RandomLinearPattern