This Alibag holiday home is a Wunderkammer of eclectic objects

This article highlights the design philosophy and personal home of Katie Kath, an interior designer and partner at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Kath embarked on building her dream home with her husband, Jesse, on a double-wide lot along Minnehaha Creek, aiming to create a space that prioritizes timeless interiors, exceptional quality, and impeccable craftsmanship, moving away from a standard builder-grade aesthetic. The vision for their 4,000-square-foot home was to incorporate customized features tailored to their family of five, ensuring every detail was intentional and thoughtfully chosen. The construction of the home, which commenced during the pandemic, was completed in a swift eight months. Despite the rapid timeline, design decisions were meticulously made, with Katie acting as both the manager and client. This dual role necessitated careful attention to both major and minor details to ensure the home's enduring appeal. Key design elements on the main floor include reclaimed wood beams from Manomin Resawn Timbers and alder accents in the cabinetry, island, and built-in banquette, which together create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cast stone fireplace surround, matching the kitchen cabinetry, serves as a contemporary focal point in the living room, with white oak flooring extending up to its base for a seamless look. The home's modern design is enhanced by black-frame windows, which are balanced with gold tones to maintain a comfortable and clean feel. The baseboards and millwork are intentionally taller than standard, adding a traditional touch. Unlacquered brass cabinet hardware from Armac Martin in London provides a desired contrast in the kitchen. Beyond the physical design, the article emphasizes that the true essence of Kath's home lies in the traditions she shares with her family, especially during the holiday season. These traditions transform the house into a cozy, safe, warm, and inviting home, fulfilling her original vision of a timeless, traditional abode with festive flair. Kath also shares practical tips for incorporating seasonal spirit into home decor without overwhelming the space or compromising on timelessness. She advises decorating for the season rather than specific holidays to allow decor to remain relevant for longer periods. Sticking to neutral earth tones for the main color scheme, with bright accents, is another recommendation. Kath suggests focusing decorating efforts on main entertaining areas, like the ground floor, and involving family in the decorating process to make it an enjoyable event. Finally, she advocates for investing in high-quality, reusable decor pieces, such as garland, and taking advantage of end-of-season sales to build a collection of timeless decorations that can be cherished year after year. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TimelessInteriors #HolidayDecor #CustomHome #JkathDesignBuild #Renovation #FamilyHome #SeasonalDecor

Aney Villa, a 4,000-square-foot home in Alibag, India, designed by Yash and Prachi Rai Warde of Warde Architects, embodies a whimsical cottagecore aesthetic while prioritizing sustainability and Vastu principles. Conceptualized for senior citizens Mahesh and Anjali Aney, a cinematographer and ceramic potter respectively, along with Anjali's mother and their five dogs, the L-shaped structure thoughtfully integrates practicality with design. The villa is situated amidst a panoramic view of rice fields and a mango orchard, with a property farm cultivating organic fruits and vegetables. The bungalow's design is heavily influenced by Vastu, focusing on accessibility with all living spaces on the ground level, visual connectivity, ramps at key points, and doggy doors. Navigating climatological principles alongside Vastu presented a challenge that the design team successfully addressed. A 100-meter drive through the orchard leads to the main entrance, opening into a diamond-shaped living and dining area featuring a towering 22-foot ceiling with intricate lattice-work. Rather than branded furniture, the open-plan living room is furnished with refurbished teakwood from Mahesh's previous home, complemented by the couple’s dynamic art collection, which is frequently updated. The villa's interior design, described as "boho" by the architects, serves as a canvas for the couple's creativity. The internal walls are painted in a palette of olive green and mint white, with olive green also extending to the exposed laterite stone walls. Vintage terrazzo tiles are used in enclosed spaces, while Moroccan printed tiles adorn semi-open areas, adding an eclectic touch. A large wraparound verandah, accessible from the living room, kitchen, and both bedrooms, provides a space to enjoy the natural surroundings and frequently hosts sun-bathing canines. This verandah doubles as a semi-open dining space, featuring graphic Moroccan-printed tiles and textured walls, with ceramic vases and wall art by Anjali Aney's studio providing bursts of color. The master bedroom includes two 7-foot-wide windows and a terracotta jali that filters soft light, creating a serene ambiance. A notable feature is a spiral staircase leading to a mezzanine nook, a later addition designed for the granddaughters, offering privacy and a view of the downstairs living area. This nook is complete with a walk-in wardrobe, serving as a perfect attic escape. Adjacent to the stairwell, a corridor leads to the second bedroom, which mirrors the master’s layout. From the central courtyard, a walkway connects to Mati Moksha, Anjali’s pottery studio. Sustainability is a core component of the villa's blueprint. A 6kVA solar system powers all electrical appliances, and the double-height roof and laterite stone masonry walls are designed to facilitate natural cooling, eliminating the need for air conditioning. Locally sourced wood is used for doors and windows, and repurposed wood was utilized to craft the spiral staircase. The design emphasizes cross-ventilation and incorporates skylights to maximize natural light and air circulation. The villa, spanning nearly 6,000 square feet including outdoor spaces, offers a tranquil environment that encourages slowing down and appreciating its many discoveries, without the literal presence of garden gnomes or fairies. #VastuCompliant #AlibagVilla #CottagecoreDesign #SustainableArchitecture #WardeArchitects #IndianHomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #TerracottaJalis

The 2018 Atlas Azalea lodge is a contemporary holiday lodge featuring a striking exterior and a sophisticated interior. Atlas Leisure Homes, known for building high-quality holiday lodges, designed the Azalea with well-thought-out interiors and attention to finishing touches often missing in other lodges of comparable size and price. The lodge's exterior is characterized by its 13ft width, giving it a sleek appearance, a deep-pitched, pantile-clad roof, and charcoal guttering and downpipes. An inset return on the front elevation breaks up the typical oblong shape, featuring large patio-style opening doors across half the width and a separate window on the left side that mirrors the roofline's angle. An overhang with two inset LED downlights adds to its appeal. The side access door leads into the kitchen and dining areas, flanked by four smaller double-glazed windows with charcoal frames. A Velux roof light with a blind is positioned above the kitchen sink. The Azalea lodge is built to BS3632 Residential Specification (2015) as standard and features a fully galvanised chassis. It utilizes tongue and grooved P5 moisture-resistant flooring, extensive underfloor insulation, and lagged exterior hot and cold pipework. The review model featured Canexel cladding in 'Mist Grey,' creating a contrast with the window frames and pantiles, though the standard model is clad in rigid PVC in 'Stone.' Atlas also offers various decking styles. Upon entering through the front French doors, a notable feature is the lodge's non-open-plan design, with a half-wall separating the lounge from the kitchen. This design creates a cozy, separated feel in the lounge while still benefiting from ample natural light from the main side door and its dormer. The lounge includes a three-piece suite, a central coffee table, a freestanding television unit, a six-shelf bookcase, and a cylinder stool. A composite stone fireplace with a timber mantle and a black granite hearth houses a flame-effect electric fire, topped by a large mirror. The room's light grey walls, white ceiling with a full height pitch, and floral pattern curtains contribute to its bright ambiance. Vertical blinds on the floor-to-ceiling front windows and doors allow for light control. A brass designer pendant light fitting, formed from interlocking circles, serves as a focal point. The combined kitchen and dining area is spacious, enhanced by the dormer canopy and a Velux roof light. The floor is covered in vinyl with a printed stone block pattern. The 'C'-shaped kitchen features Shaker-style wall and floor cabinets with soft-close mechanisms. It includes open shelves, a stylish charcoal-colored sink/drainer with an arched mixer tap, and marble-effect worktops. Standard appliances comprise a gas oven and grill with electric ignition, an extraction hood, a five-ring hob with a wok burner, a twelve-bottle wine cooler, a dishwasher, and an integrated microwave oven. An American-style fridge/freezer is located near the dining area. The dining space is furnished with a large, trestle-style timber dining table and four white wood and upholstered chairs, illuminated by a central glass pendant light fitting under the dormer canopy. The family shower room, accessed through a central door in the kitchen, features a shower cubicle, a long unit with a cabinet and open shelves, an oval white ceramic wash basin, an illuminated mirror, and a low-profile, push-button, double-flush toilet. The floor matches the kitchen's vinyl block pattern, and a radiator-cum-heated towel rail is installed, along with a window with a roller blind. The twin bedroom is spacious, offering comfortable beds with attractive bedding, storage units above the bedheads, and inset downlight reading lamps. It includes a three-quarter-length wardrobe with hanging space and two drawers, and a corner 'vanity' shelf with a drawer and mirror. The layout ensures ample walking space between beds and room to dress. The master bedroom, located at the end of the lodge, is also generous in size, featuring a king-sized bed with lift-up storage, twin bedside tables, and a similar scaled-up bedhead arrangement. It provides two full-height double wardrobes and a large vanity dressing table with a drawer, two cupboards, a comfortable chair, and an illuminated mirror. The en-suite bathroom, accessible via an angled door, includes a bath with an over-shower, a low-profile, double-flush toilet, and a corner unit with cabinets and a hand basin, offering comfortable space for washing and dressing. #HolidayLodge #AtlasAzalea #LodgeReview #LuxuryLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeFeatures #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #HolidayHome

This article delves into the holiday home of prominent gallerists Kadee Robbins, director of the Michael Werner Gallery in London, and Stefan Ratibor, director of the Gagosian in London. Their residence is a 17th-century baroque manor in the Danube valley, about half an hour from Vienna, Austria. The property, initially found and purchased by Ratibor in 2005, became a shared project and a labor of love after he and Robbins began their relationship. The manor was once owned by an "aged and reclusive opera singer" and had fallen into disrepair, described as being hidden in a forest and overrun with flora. With the assistance of architect Annabelle Selldorf, a friend of the couple known for her work on projects like the Frick Collection extension in New York, the manor underwent a comprehensive restoration. The renovation focused on removing clutter both inside and outside the structure and simplifying its layout to create a more relaxed and airy living space. The goal was to transform the historical property into a comfortable family home, suitable for the couple and their three young children. The family typically uses the home for holidays during Christmas, Easter, and a summer period. A central feature of the home is its extensive collection of contemporary art, carefully curated by Robbins and Ratibor. The collection includes pieces by artists they have collaborated with, befriended, or admired, such as Ed Ruscha, Peter Doig, Franz West, and Jeff Koons. Robbins emphasizes that this collection was assembled organically over time, rather than through a predefined grand plan. Despite the high value of the artworks, she maintains a pragmatic approach, acknowledging that the house is a living space for children. She notes that while the pieces are lovingly cared for, the family remains philosophical about potential wear and tear, joking about a Carsten Höller yellow rhino sculpture in the upstairs hall that has likely been sat upon by the children. The article highlights several specific artworks and design elements within the home. For instance, the master bedroom features a picture by American artist Aaron Young, created from motorcyclists driving across primed panels, leaving skid marks. This room also contains 1960s Italian chairs and a carpet from Azerbaijan. A photograph by Douglas Gordon is flanked by baroque chairs inherited from Ratibor’s great-aunt, with a 1960s French lamp. A neon artwork by Tracey Emin is displayed above a 19th-century sofa, which is a Ratibor family heirloom. The guest bedroom showcases works by Glenn Brown and Ed Ruscha, with an Iranian carpet and a chocolate velvet chaise longue from Robbins's previous life in New York. The first-floor sitting room includes sofas by 20th-century Italian designer Guglielmo Ulrich, a mirror by Jeff Koons, a sculpture by Franz West, and a painting by Adam McEwen, all set against an original mantelpiece. In the garden, there is a sculpture by the late Franz West, an Austrian artist and close friend of the owners. These details illustrate the blend of historical architecture, contemporary art, and personal touches that define the couple's unique holiday home. #HolidayHome #BaroqueManor #ContemporaryArt #InteriorDesign #AustrianArchitecture #ArtCollection #GalleristHome #AnnabelleSelldorf #FamilyHome

This article details the transformation of a 1922 bungalow in Denver's Washington Park neighborhood, owned by Julie and Joe Anderies, an art historian and a jazz musician, respectively. The couple sought to revamp their home to reflect their personal style and world travels, selecting interior designer Katie Schroder of Atelier Design Group for the project. The renovation involved stripping the house down to its studs, allowing for a comprehensive redesign that blends modern and antique elements within a modest space. The design process began with a specific Schumacher fabric and a photograph of teal kitchen cabinets, which heavily influenced the home's overall color palette and aesthetic. Julie Anderies' openness to vibrant colors and her desire for each piece to have a unique story were central to Schroder's approach. To balance the potential for busyness from extensive art collections and colorful furnishings, Schroder opted for a neutral taupe-gray paint (Benjamin Moore’s Thunder) for the main walls, allowing the upholstery and art to be the focal points. The couple's trip to Morocco, where they purchased several rugs, also integrated Moroccan influences into the design, contributing to a jewel-toned theme throughout the house. Schroder emphasized playing with color and texture, creating a dynamic yet cohesive interior. An example of this balance is found in the master bedroom, where a muted Moroccan rug grounds vibrant bedding and a patterned headboard. Hand-carved doors by California artist Evelyn Ackerman add another unique artistic touch. The kitchen, designed by Angela Otten of William Ohs, features a large custom island, sandstone countertops, and recessed lighting to compensate for minimal natural light, all while incorporating the initial Schumacher fabric on a built-in banquette. Functionality was a key consideration in the design. The architect, Jon Hindlemann, strategically placed the living room at the back of the house, behind the kitchen, to draw guests deeper into the home. This layout acknowledges the kitchen's role as a central gathering space. Given the couple's desire to downsize without sacrificing their accumulated possessions, built-ins and hidden storage solutions were crucial. The living room includes an Italian cabinet that conceals a TV, books, and electronics, while a nearby bench seat provides open storage underneath, maintaining an airy feel despite extensive storage. A significant design element highlighted is the vaulted ceiling in the living room, which is covered in Makrana wallpaper by Harlequin, mimicking marble. Schroder initially had to persuade Julie about the wallpaper, but its organic and neutral pattern ultimately brought attention to the unique architectural feature. Midcentury design influences are evident, particularly in the living room and dining area, with Mexican midcentury dining furniture and stained glass French doors by local artist Ann Wolff, serving both as artwork and a privacy screen. The exterior also saw changes, with the original garage being replaced by a new structure further back on the lot, designed to resemble a small studio, complemented by landscaping from Altgelt & Associates and Landwise. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of building trust between designer and client to achieve such bold and personalized interior transformations. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #GlobalInspiredDecor #MidcenturyModern #WashPark #DenverRealEstate #AtelierDesignGroup #CustomInteriors

This article explores a selection of 14 distinctive home decor items that are available for purchase from various luxury hotels around the world. These items allow individuals to bring a touch of upscale hospitality into their personal living spaces. The first item highlighted is the Kit Kemp Sam Headboard, designed by Kit Kemp of Firmdale Hotels. These sculptural headboards are noted for their artistic quality, upholstered in boiled wool and intricately embroidered using an Irish technique, aiming to transform a bedroom into a luxurious retreat. Another featured item is the JW Marriott by Flamingo Estate Expansion Candle, which is designed to evoke the scent of a lush garden. This candle offers notes of greenery, damp earth, and white flowers, intended to create a serene atmosphere in a home environment. Adare Manor offers a distinctive Cats & Dogs Umbrella, described as a memorable souvenir from the Irish castle hotel. This extra-large, sturdy, chocolate-brown umbrella features whimsical artwork inside, providing both functionality and a unique design element. For pet owners, The Mark Signature Pet Bed from The Mark Hotel in New York City is presented as a luxury item for pets. This pet bed, featuring the hotel’s black and white stripes and 'M' monogram, is designed to provide comfort and style for pets. The Gleneagles resort in Scotland provides a Highball Glass, part of a collaboration with London-based crystal maker Richard Brendon. These glasses are characterized by their subtle etching, combining traditional and modern aesthetics, suitable for various beverages. From Lake Zurich, the Baur au Lac’s Lakeside Candle aims to infuse homes with the hotel’s custom soothing aroma, promoting relaxation and luxury. The Barragán Pillow from Minna Goods, available at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge, is highlighted as an artisan homeware item. These textiles, created by a company based in New York’s Hudson Valley, are intended to add an artistic touch to hotel rooms and lounges. Hotel Il Pellicano in Tuscany offers the Campbell-Rey for ISSIMO by Nordic Knots Climbing Vine Rug. This rug is a collaboration between a London design studio and a Swedish rug maker, inspired by the hotel’s terracotta hues and rosemary gardens, reflecting casual elegance. Blackberry Farms in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee offers the Match Blackberry Farm Mint Julep Cup, created in collaboration with Match Pewter. This versatile cup is presented as a functional and decorative item, suitable for both beverages and as a desk accessory. The Carlyle Hotel in New York City features Bemelmans Bar Cocktail Napkins, which capture the essence of the bar’s legendary mural by Ludwig Bemelmans. These linen-cotton napkins are presented as a way to bring a piece of the city's iconic establishment home. The Standard hotel offers Chihuahua Salt & Pepper Shaker Sets, known for their whimsical dog designs, providing a playful addition to dining. Claridge’s Afternoon Tea Set for Two, from the iconic London hotel, is highlighted as a sophisticated tea set. Made from jade-and-white Bernardaud porcelain, it allows for the replication of a traditional afternoon tea experience at home. La Mamounia in Marrakech offers an Hermès Orange Leather Tissue Box, representing the hotel’s luxurious decor. This item is described as an accessible way to introduce a vibrant pop of color into a powder room. Finally, Le Sirenuse in Positano, Italy, offers an Ashtray, featuring hand-painted Italian ceramics. This item is suggested as a decorative catchall for entryways or dressers, reflecting the hotel’s eclectic interiors and antique collection. #LuxuryHotels #HomeDecor #HotelSouvenirs #InteriorDesign #TravelInspired #ArtisanHomewares #LuxuryLiving

The article highlights the home of Kat Rogers in Birmingham, Alabama, showcasing how designer Caroline Gidiere transformed the space by integrating family antiques with contemporary touches. Kat Rogers, facing a new home and an upcoming dinner party, enlisted Gidiere's help to furnish her dining room, primarily using pieces inherited from her aunt who was downsizing. This initial collaboration set the tone for decorating the entire house, as Rogers had access to a trove of sentimental family furniture, which Gidiere skillfully incorporated into each room. The design philosophy employed in Rogers' home aligns with the 'grandmillennial' style, a growing trend that blends traditional aesthetics, often featuring inherited or antique items, with modern elements. Gidiere explains that this style resonates with many, particularly after recent global events, as it encourages a return to roots and a preference for meaningful, historical pieces over new, custom-made furniture that might involve long lead times. Kat Rogers expresses deep appreciation for this approach, finding joy and heritage in seeing her grandmother's beloved items actively used and cherished in her own home. The article details several key design strategies Gidiere used throughout the house. In the dining room, for instance, Gidiere refreshed antique furniture with vibrant colors and patterns, including new seat covers and floral wallpaper, and introduced contemporary accents to reflect Rogers' personality. For the foyer, Gidiere requested a chest of drawers and two chairs, which Rogers sourced from family members, allowing Gidiere to enhance them with lively hues and prints. This process of incorporating existing family pieces continued across various rooms, each time revitalized with Gidiere's design expertise. Specific examples of Gidiere's work include the integration of a chest of drawers with intricate inlay work alongside a French mirror, Central Asian-inspired prints, and a mid-century-style chandelier, demonstrating a balance between traditional and modern elements. In the kitchen, Gidiere modernized a 1990s layout while maintaining a classic feel by adding beaded board backsplashes, cabinet brackets, and latch-style hardware, complementing the existing antiques. A new built-in bar area was also added to facilitate entertaining. The dining room, almost entirely furnished with handed-down pieces, achieves cohesion through a scenic wallpaper and a consistent blue color scheme, with a custom-colored chandelier chosen to match the draperies and rug. Gidiere emphasizes her intuitive approach to design, mixing various styles of lamps and furniture legs to create an eclectic yet harmonious environment. The 'adult den' features a screen from Rogers' mother's house as its centerpiece, around which Gidiere built the room's design with a blue color palette encompassing painted ceilings, grass cloth walls, and a performance velvet sectional, ensuring the space is both stylish and family-friendly. Pattern play is another significant aspect of Gidiere's design, guided by her philosophy that 'more is less when it comes to prints' – meaning a bolder use of patterns can sometimes make them blend in more seamlessly. This is evident in a younger daughter's room with a sophisticated yet playful wallpaper and in the primary bedroom, where Brunschwig & Fils wallpaper was chosen to complement existing turquoise armchairs. Even the screened porch was updated by refreshing antique iron furniture, swapping a wood tabletop for glass, and adding warm woven accents, using vintage textile patterns like 'Chrysanthemum by Tillett' for upholstery to tie everything together. The overall design successfully marries the past with the present, creating a home that is rich in history and personal meaning. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #GrandmillennialStyle #FamilyAntiques #BirminghamHome #CarolineGidiere #SentimentalStyle #TraditionalDecor #ModernEclecticism

This article explores a Mediterranean-revival home in Palm Beach, valued at $12 million, purchased by investment banker Lisbeth Barron for her mother, Carla. The 7,896-square-foot estate features six bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and nearly 200 feet of direct Intracoastal access. The interior design, a collaborative effort between Lisbeth and her sister, Judy Barron, owner of Brass Scale Antiques, showcases a distinctive approach that defies conventional rules. Instead of adhering to a single style, the sisters fill the home with treasures chosen for their sentimental value and the memories they evoke, creating a "family memoir" within the architecture. The home's grandeur is defined by its architectural elements, including ivory and red travertine floors, Herpel stone columns and arches, Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, mahogany ceiling beams, and intricate wrought iron detailing. Within this backdrop, an eclectic collection of art and antiques is meticulously arranged. The formal living room, for instance, features an identical pair of 18th-century Italian-style sofas in lush velvet celadon, Lisbeth Barron’s favorite color, flanking a Walker Zabriskie Balinese shagreen cocktail table. These are complemented by upholstered French bergères and ornately carved, gilded Italian Renaissance armchairs, along with stately French tambour end tables. A recurring theme throughout the estate is a diverse collection of animal sculptures, shields, and armor. These include a brass zebra, lion, and dolphin, as well as a papier-mâché sunburst by Mexican sculptor Sergio Bustamante. The home also houses museum-worthy collections, such as centuries-old wood and glass display cases filled with fisherman’s rope knots from Scotland. The study pays homage to Lisbeth’s father, Herman Barron, a championship golfer, with a tribute to his career, including his participation in the 1947 U.S. Ryder Cup team. Lisbeth’s personal achievements are also noted, as she recently became the first single female member of the Palm Beach Country Club, where her father once served as a golf pro. Art plays a significant role in the home's aesthetic, with vivid paintings by acclaimed pop artist Peter Max displayed in the gym, reflecting his client-friend relationship with Lisbeth. Rare watercolors by French painter Philippe Noyer, admired by the sisters’ mother for their expressive subjects, are featured in several spaces. Other unique items include a Moroccan shoeshine box, a shofar mounted above a doorway, and a three-instrument digital Maximum weather station in the family room. Judy Barron, with her extensive knowledge of antiques, can readily provide historical context for each piece, underscoring her expertise in the field. The home is also a hub for social gatherings, often hosting Lisbeth’s famous pianist friends who play her late 1800s antique Steinway, or occasions where celebrity chef Martha Stewart prepares meals in the kitchen. The nearly three-year-long decoration project is largely complete, though new acquisitions from Judy's antique business continue to find their place, reflecting an ongoing process driven by a shared passion and familial affection, despite occasional disagreements over choices. This estate is not just a house; it’s a living narrative enriched by personal history, art, and cherished memories. #PalmBeachEstate #AntiqueFurnishings #MediterraneanRevival #InteriorDesign #FamilyMemoir #EclecticDecor #WaterfrontProperty #ArtCollection #LuxuryHomes

Ty Bhojwani, an Indian-born Canadian businessman, embarked on a decade-long journey to create his dream getaway home in Alibag, near Mumbai, India. After exploring numerous plots, he finally settled on a 1.8-hectare (4.4-acre) patch of land in 2012, drawn by its breathtaking vistas of the sea, hills, and verdant valleys. Despite initial challenges such as the absence of water, electricity, and roads, Bhojwani remained committed to his vision. Construction of the five-bedroom house, named The Ray after the manta rays found in the Arabian Sea, began in 2017 and took four years to complete, rather than the initial 18-month estimate. The Ray consists of two distinct two-storey pavilions: one is light and airy, while the other is substantial and monumental. Interestingly, neither pavilion primarily focuses on maximizing sea views; instead, they offer diverse vistas, including a central courtyard featuring boulders set in gravel. This design approach, advocated by Robert Verrijt and Shefali Balwani, co-founders of Architecture BRIO, aimed to give the house more dimension. Their design was a thoughtful response to Bhojwani's request for a modern plantation-style home reminiscent of grand mansions in Barbados and the Bahamas. The white pavilion incorporates traditional plantation elements such as shuttered expanses and high ceilings to promote natural airflow, ensuring the structure felt integrated with its environment rather than alien. To further blend the house with its surroundings, landscape architect Kunal Maniar collaborated with Architecture BRIO to enhance the undulating site. They designed a dense screen at the entrance to build anticipation for visitors. The arrival sequence leads guests through a crushed stone path to a cave-like lobby featuring a manta-ray floor mosaic. From there, a spiral staircase descends into a bright, open living area with steel-framed windows on three sides, offering views of an infinity pool and green paddy fields, with the bay visible in the distance. The stone pavilion, housing the bedrooms, is accessible from the double-height living room, including a "secret" passage at the rear. The master bedroom, located on the upper level, connects to an outdoor staircase resembling stepped pyramids. Gardens surrounding the two top-floor bedrooms help to maintain cooler temperatures in the rooms below. The wraparound infinity pool and an adjacent louvred outdoor lounge, extending from the living room, contribute to the home's inviting atmosphere. Esha, Bhojwani’s wife, chose the hand-fired turquoise blue tiles for the pool, preferring them over popular black-bottom or cement pools for their welcoming aesthetic. The furniture and furnishings, both indoors and outdoors, were either custom-designed, selected from existing collections, or sourced primarily from Indonesia by Timothy Oulton Studio, emphasizing comfort with washed linens. Unique natural basalt boulders on the property were either retained as features or carved by Rajasthani artisans into distinctive bathroom basins, adding to the home's remarkable character. Despite the lengthy development process, Bhojwani finds moments by the pool surreal, fulfilling a vision he held for a decade. #Architecture #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #AlibagIndia #ModernPlantationHouse #InfinityPool #TimothyOulton #ArchitectureBRIO #LandscapeDesign

This article details the creation of a unique resort-style home in Bali for Alexander Jovanovic, designed by the A2Kreasitama (A2K) team. The project addressed the challenge of an irregularly shaped plot of land, which ultimately inspired the central octagonal foyer, serving as a functional meeting point and a symbolic compass for the house. The design aimed to merge the characteristics of a resort villa, emphasizing natural airflow, with the functionality of a traditional home where spaces could be fully enclosed. To achieve this dual functionality, the A2K team incorporated aluminum glass doors that can be fully opened to allow natural ventilation while also being tightly sealed to prevent insect intrusion. Strategic placement and height of the house were crucial in maximizing natural airflow, effectively eliminating the need for air conditioning. The home's location in Dreamland – Pecatu, Bali, allowed for the integration of Balinese contemporary design elements, starting with intricate wooden carvings at the main entrance. The octagonal foyer, inspired by Taoist cosmology, was intended to bring balance and stability to the irregular landform. The interior of the foyer features white granite tile floors, a sleek console table with a painting, and a contemporary chandelier above a central round table. From the foyer, access is provided to two bedrooms through oversized solid wood doors, and a glass door opens to the swimming pool. The guest bedroom is situated to the left, adjacent to a staircase leading to the upper floors, while the master bedroom on the right offers direct access to a green-stone swimming pool and a private wooden parquet patio. The master suite includes a walk-in closet connecting to a Balinese semi-outdoor bathroom, which features a freestanding bathtub, a solid wall finish, and a stonescape garden, enhancing the private resort-like ambiance. An outdoor whirlpool is located between the master bedroom and the main pool. The guest bedroom also has an open terrace for entertaining or enjoying sunsets, and its bathroom is equipped with a glass wall shower and a small garden leading to the swimming pool. All bedrooms are finished with wooden parquet floors and adorned with solid wood and natural stone accents. An eye-catching contemporary staircase, constructed from steel and solid wood with frameless glass railings, leads to the upper levels. A high synthetic rattan ceiling above the staircase not only serves as an aesthetic feature but also demonstrates a clever use of local materials. The living and dining areas are uniquely positioned on the upper floor to offer magnificent views during daily activities, cultivating a recreational, resort, and tropical atmosphere. The living room, encased by transparent glass doors and solid wood columns, is a focal point of the house. It includes a solid wood dining table with an integrated teppanyaki-style stove for entertaining. Above the dining room, an attic serves as a relaxing space and provides access to a rooftop with panoramic views of Jimbaran Bay and the airport runway, ideal for social gatherings. The lower ground level accommodates a service area, laundry room, and a spacious garage with a carport that can function as a versatile multi-purpose space. Given the owner's background in the hospitality business, the A2K team meticulously designed the home to offer luxurious comfort and a distinct resort feel. The public and private areas are clearly delineated, and the designer used scale effectively to maximize space and apply hospitality industry standards to a private residence. For example, the octagonal foyer's atrium was designed to be larger than typical for a home of its size. The innovative design on the 505 sqm plot successfully integrated various functions to cater to the owner's lifestyle, resulting in a truly unique resort-style home. #ArchitectureInterior #ResortStyleHome #BaliDesign #A2Kreasitama #SustainableDesign #BalineseContemporary #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

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

This blog post explores a modern holiday home in Surat designed by Neogenesis+Studi0261, which masterfully integrates biophilic design elements. The home serves as a serene getaway for a multi-generational diamond trader family of seven, offering a blend of modern aesthetics and rustic charm. The design prioritizes bringing the outdoors in, evident from the moment one drives through the grand entry porch with its voluminous pitched red Mangalore tile roof, creating an immediate sense of escape from city life. The core of the home revolves around a central courtyard, a vibrant space teeming with bougainvillea, neem, areca, coconut, red champa, heliconia, and lily plants, along with curtain creepers that gently sway, fostering a connection with nature. A custom-made in-situ green marble jacuzzi also stands out as a beloved spot, emphasizing relaxation and family bonding. Neogenesis+Studi0261's design successfully merges carefully chosen biophilia with striking structural elements, contributing to the luxurious weekend ambiance of the residence. The architectural approach emphasizes visual linearity and geometric play. Agra stone pathways lead guests around the lawns, where the two-tiered linear structure of the home showcases louvered windows framed by cavity walls that ensure privacy at the front. The rear of the house features a rhythmic arrangement of deep windows and columns, creating an interplay of solid and void spaces. This meticulous crafting combines rustic extravagance with comfort, ensuring a cohesive and inviting environment. The home's layout is thoughtfully divided, with all public spaces located on the ground floor, including a sports room, the jacuzzi, and formal living and dining areas. The first floor is dedicated to private quarters, housing bedrooms, a TV room, and a welcoming family room, complemented by shaded verandahs that maximize natural light. Each room is designed with a loft, effectively utilizing the double-height spaces to enhance functionality and spaciousness. The homeowners expressed a desire for a minimalist design deeply connected to their lifestyle, rejecting a fragmented representation of their tastes. Consequently, the interior features a natural color palette, with materials sourced locally from artisans. The traditional courtyard planning is central to the home's sustainable design, promoting natural ventilation and cooling, which is crucial in Surat's hot and humid climate. The lavish landscaping harmonizes with the rustic yet sustainable material palette, which includes Mangalore tiles, Kota stone, wood-finished trellises, Rajula stone rubble masonry, lime plaster, and exposed brick. These traditional materials are juxtaposed with modern elements such as cool glass, brass, plywood panels, granite, steel, oakwood, and teak, creating a rich textural and aesthetic experience. A unique touch is a terrazzo floor in the living room, designed like a carpet, adding another layer of visual interest to the overall design. This thoughtful combination of natural elements and modern design creates a holiday home that is both super modern and rustic chic, providing a perfect retreat. #BiophilicArchitecture #HolidayHomeDesign #SuratHomes #ModernRustic #CourtyardDesign #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri, founder of her eponymous home goods company, embarked on a unique journey to build and decorate her Long Island East End home. Unlike her "madness" of a Brooklyn home, Oudghiri aimed for a colorful yet peaceful aesthetic in her Bridgehampton residence. The project began when she discovered an oddly shaped piece of land with two dilapidated shacks, which she decided to tear down and rebuild from the ground up with her father, Alfred P. Tuff, a builder and developer. This collaboration proved to be a significant learning experience, allowing Oudghiri to refine her design skills while incorporating her bold vision into her father's practical expertise. Construction of the two-story contemporary cottage took eight months. The exterior features a black wood finish, achieved using the Japanese _shou sugi ban_ technique, which chars wood for weatherproofing, mildew, insect, and fire resistance. The interior was designed with a modern floor plan and architectural details inspired by Oudghiri's travels, particularly to her husband’s native Morocco. Initially, she painted the interior Decorator’s White, creating a blank canvas that allowed her to introduce vibrant colors and textures through key design elements, including a striking cobalt blue kitchen faucet, a lavender velvet headboard in the primary bedroom, and marigold walls in the powder room. Color and texture were integrated in innovative ways throughout the home. The library, with its floor-to-ceiling shelves, became a repository for books and travel souvenirs. Oudghiri experimented with elaborate flooring, designing a graphic black and white marble inlaid pattern for the powder room, inspired by Optical Art, and recreating one of her early carpet designs using pink quartz, green granite, and black onyx in the main bathroom. To bring the outdoors in, she incorporated glass doors that open onto the yard, offering views of the garden and swimming pool, a nod to a vintage British garden print she and her husband cherished. For the interior furnishings, Oudghiri drew heavily from her own collection, Aelfie. A vintage Moroccan rug grounds the dining area, while a soft pink and marigold dhurrie rug from her Heat Wave in Rajasthan collection defines the living room. Pillows and poufs add comfort and warmth to every space. The guest bedroom features an overdyed rug and one of her company's first bedspreads, combining coral, blue, and royal purple to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Oudghiri views the entire process as a period of growth, acknowledging that her taste is maturing, yet emphasizing that color will always remain a crucial element in her design philosophy, recognizing its powerful impact. #HomeTour #TextileDesigner #ColorfulInteriors #LongIslandHome #CustomBuild #ShouSugiBan #InteriorDesign #VibrantDecor #Aelfie

The article delves into the unique and eclectic home of Giorgio Taroni, a 77-year-old collector and chatelain, located in a 9,000-square-foot lakeside villa overlooking Lake Como, Italy. Built in the early 1900s by his grandfather, silk industrialist Ettore Taroni, the eight-bedroom, three-story house is designed to maximize views, featuring a buff-colored brick exterior and a gray stone tile roof, surrounded by a half-acre of gardens. Inside, the villa is described as a private museum, meticulously organized and filled with Giorgio Taroni's vast collections, spanning entomology, textile design, illustration, rationalist art, ancient coins, and local history. The narrative also incorporates the perspective of Giorgio's son, Guido Taroni, 35, a photographer residing in Milan. Guido recounts his childhood, spent commuting between his parents' distinct homes. His mother, Anna Gastel, 70, a descendant of two prominent Italian families (Visconti di Modrone and Erba), lived across the lake in a converted 12th-century Benedictine convent, a 40-room yellow stucco villa with Empire-style trompe l'oeil frescoes. Guido describes an idyllic childhood, often navigating Lake Como by ferry, which his parents allowed him to steer, transporting himself, his sister, and cousins between the two residences. The article highlights Giorgio Taroni's past as the chief designer of Taroni Disegni, a firm producing extravagantly patterned silks for fashion brands like Versace and Valentino. His passion for collecting led to nearly every surface of his home being adorned with his possessions. The entry hall features porcelain parrots and ceramic animals, while a two-story salon, once repainted yearly in vivid hues, now showcases over 300 oil paintings of the Como environs against Ferrari red walls with saffron trim. The furniture is upholstered in fabrics from Taroni Disegni's archives, and the floor is a mosaic of multihued cotto lombardo shards. A smaller ground-floor salon, painted peacock blue, displays canvases by abstractionist Manlio Rho, and the dining room walls are covered with drawings of vintage French seed packets. The garden house, formerly the textile design team's workspace, has been converted into a climate-controlled library, housing thousands of first-edition design books, silk-screens, and original fabric paintings. This library also contains an 18th-century series of watercolors used as tapestry patterns by Aubusson weavers, a collection rare enough to be compared to those in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The second floor of the villa is where Taroni's entomological collection reaches its peak: over 30,000 stag beetles, ranging in size and iridescent colors, meticulously mounted and hand-labeled, are stored in custom-made wooden flat files. Alongside these are pre-Napoleonic coins and various ephemera, including 19th and early 20th-century advertising, vintage postcards, and nearly 20,000 paper cigar bands. Guido Taroni, inspired by his father's collecting habits, has cultivated his own collections in his Milan apartment, including vintage ceramic jars by Piero Fornasetti, ceramic dishware designed by Gio Ponti, and framed photographs of couture gowns from his maternal great-grandmother's trunk. He is also undertaking the revival of Gi.Vi.Emme, a historical fragrance brand founded by his great-grandfather, actively collecting vintage perfume bottles, gift boxes, and advertisements for the line. This endeavor mirrors his father's meticulous collecting, demonstrating a generational continuation of an deep appreciation for history and design. #ItalianVilla #LakeComo #EclecticDecor #ArtCollection #EntomologyCollection #TextileDesign #FamilyLegacy #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #Collecting

The world is home to an incredible array of diverse buildings, with some standing out for their vibrant hues. This article explores 38 of the most colourful homes across the globe, showcasing how cultural, architectural, and social circumstances contribute to their striking appearances. From candy-striped huts in Portugal to hillside neighbourhoods in Mexico transformed with murals, these properties demonstrate that personality can be expressed boldly on the exterior of a home, not just within its interiors. Key examples include Zhengbin Fishing Port in Keelung, Taiwan, where 16 vibrantly-hued houses line the river bank, and Rainbow Row in Oklahoma City, USA, featuring six three-storey, candy-coloured homes designed by architect Sam Day. Indonesia's Kalisari Rainbow Village, or Kampung Pelangi, received a government-funded glow-up in 2017 to attract tourists, transforming buildings and bridges into multi-coloured murals. In New York, USA, artist Katwise and her partner transformed a rundown farm into a psychedelic wonderland with every colour imaginable, funding their renovations by making patchwork coats from old sweaters. The Bo-Kaap neighbourhood in Cape Town, South Africa, is known for its brightly painted houses, a tradition that began when freed enslaved people painted their homes in celebration after being allowed to purchase them. Jodhpur, India, is nicknamed the 'Blue City' due to its many blue homes, a colour believed to help keep interiors cool and deter termites. Italy’s Cinque Terre region features vividly decorated houses cascading down steep hillsides, where fishermen reportedly painted their homes in bright tones to spot them from sea. Las Palmitas in Pachuca, Mexico, saw a community project by the 'German Crew' transform a downtrodden area into a living art mural with rainbow-hued homes. Yves Saint Laurent’s Villa Oasis in Marrakesh, Morocco, is a vivid celebration of colour, Art Deco, and Moorish design. Poznań, Poland’s Old Market Square boasts Renaissance-style merchant houses, each unique with mismatched colours and patterns, rebuilt after World War II. Venezuela features old, traditional houses resembling abstract paintings, with strong colour pairings and bold lines. In Pattaya, Thailand, the Xanadu Beach Resort showcases elaborately painted accommodations. Burano, Italy, one of Venice's islands, is known for its rainbow-painted homes, a tradition thought to help fishermen locate their houses in the fog. Valparaíso, Chile, has houses painted with leftover ship paints, creating a vibrant, colourful town. Vienna, Austria, features the Hundertwasserhaus, an unusual apartment building designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, with an art-like quality and colourful exterior. Portland, Oregon’s Nob Hill neighbourhood is filled with historic Victorian and Craftsman homes painted in pretty hues. Singapore's Little India district is home to many bold structures, including a multicoloured, century-old Chinese villa. Ilulissat, Greenland, features brightly painted buildings where colours historically indicated function, and now serve as decoration. Guatapé, Colombia, is dubbed the world's most colourful town, with everything from doorways to balconies painted in eye-catching colours. London’s Primrose Hill and Notting Hill boast pastel-hued and brightly coloured terraced houses, respectively, with trends starting in the 1960s. Muizenberg, South Africa, has colourful bathing boxes along its beach. Caminito in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a street museum revitalized by artist Benito Quinquela Martín, featuring brightly hued houses. Varanasi, India, has chaotically structured, radiant houses on the Ganges, with colours reflecting Hindu symbolism. Tenerife, Spain, shows coastal houses painted in bold colours, likely to help fishermen see them from afar. Bristol, UK, is known for its vibrant buildings, with theories ranging from sailors' navigation aids to a mayor's influence. Innsbruck, Austria, features buildings painted in every imaginable shade against its mountain scenery. Stockholm, Sweden’s Stortorget public square showcases Renaissance-style buildings with uniquely painted façades. Getsemani in Cartagena, Colombia, highlights colourful colonial homes, reflecting its diverse cultural history. Diessenhofen, Switzerland, has adorable painted houses in its main street, thought to welcome visitors. Stykkisholmur, Iceland, and St. John's, Canada, feature unique, bright structures, with traditions rooted in individual expression and making homes visible in fog, respectively. Lüderitz, Namibia, displays colourful Art Nouveau buildings in a Bavarian style, a relic of its German colonial past. Finally, Istanbul, Turkey’s Balat district is recognized for its vibrant, historic wooden homes, and Costa Nova, Portugal, is famous for its candy-striped huts, originally built to shelter fishermen and later painted to attract tourists. #ColorfulHomes #Architecture #GlobalDesign #HomeExterior #TravelInspiration #CulturalHeritage #UrbanArt #VibrantCities #CoastalHomes

Interior designer Dina Sebti undertook the redecoration of a 1960s Casablanca home, originally reimagined by architect Jacqueline Alluchon, who founded Casamémoire to preserve Casablanca’s architectural heritage. Sebti's primary challenge was to modernize the 1,500-square-meter property while respecting its historical integrity. Upon her initial visit, Sebti noted the house's serene, cocoon-like atmosphere, enhanced by birdsong from the garden and a spacious layout. A significant feature that captivated her was the extensive art collection, which provided a strong visual and emotional identity to the space. The homeowner is a notable art collector, and the brief emphasized creating an environment that could stylishly and sensitively showcase their collection. This collection includes significant works by Moroccan masters such as Mohamed Melehi, Chaïbia Talal, Mahi Binebine, and Hassan El Glaoui, alongside pieces by European artists like Picasso, Miró, and Buffet. A key issue identified was the lack of natural light on the ground floor and the need to update some finishes. Sebti aimed to introduce clarity and modernity without compromising the home's authentic character, fulfilling the client's desire for a comfortable, accessible, and bright living space. Sebti maintained her admiration for Alluchon’s original interior architecture, particularly her well-planned layouts and striking ceilings. Consequently, Sebti preserved the existing ceiling designs, intricately inlaid floors, and original woodwork. Her focus was on restoring the finishes that were part of Alluchon’s earlier renovation. Room functions were reconfigured to align with the client’s contemporary lifestyle, and bathrooms, electrical systems, and lighting were upgraded. The interiors were refreshed with a palette of warm neutrals and rich earthy tones, complementing the home's style and location, and fostering the tranquil atmosphere the client desired. To address the issue of insufficient natural light on the ground floor, Sebti implemented several strategies. She applied a silver-leaf finish to the ceilings, which introduced a soft, reflective quality that distributed light more effectively. The walls were painted in a creamy white with a subtle metallic sheen, further enhancing light reflection. Additionally, mirrored paneling was installed in strategic locations to amplify light and integrate the lush garden views into the interior. A central principle guiding Sebti’s design decisions was that the art should be the focal point. To this end, she devised an innovative modular picture-rail system throughout the house. This system allows for easy rearrangement and evolution of the art display over time, providing flexibility and dynamism to the collection's presentation. To enrich the home's character, Sebti sourced artisanal and vintage pieces from Clay Concept, a design hub based in Dubai that specializes in Moroccan heritage. This curated selection included 1970s Arflex sconces, Modernist items by Knoll, and contemporary pieces from Italian and Danish brands like &Tradition;, Tacchini, and Gubi. She also incorporated unique vintage finds, handmade decorative objects, and candles to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Sebti noted that the year-long project benefited from an unhurried approach, allowing for thoughtful layering and organic maturation of the design, resulting in a home that harmonizes modern design with heritage architecture, respecting its past while embracing its future. #CasablancaHome #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #MoroccanHeritage #VintageFurniture #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalRenovation #DesignInspiration #ModernDesign

This article showcases five holiday homes, each featuring a unique infinity pool design, located across various picturesque regions, offering a luxurious escape and an immersive experience with nature. Infinity pools are highlighted as an ideal way to combat summer heat, creating an illusion of boundless space and tranquility by seamlessly merging with the surrounding landscape. The first featured property is an eco-conscious home in Kerala, named 'Malhar.' This weekend retreat, designed by architect Vivek PP of De Earth, is situated on a six-acre plot near Payyannur, Kannur. The owners, originally from Bengaluru, envision making this their permanent residence. The home features a cobbled pathway leading to a foyer, and an open-to-sky infinity pool, surrounded by areca palm trees, is central to a courtyard. The pool provides expansive views of nearby plantations, fulfilling the owners' desire for a lush, green environment integrated with music. Next is a second-generation summer home in Ahmedabad, a project by Rushi Shah and Vidisha Shah. This property is notable for its integration with the abundant trees on its verdant outskirts. Initially conceived as a standard two-bedroom dwelling, the design evolved to prioritize open spaces and a harmonious relationship with nature. The infinity pool at the front of the house is strategically positioned on a lawn slope, creating a stunning visual effect that allows inhabitants to fully appreciate the encompassing landscape, functioning as a viewing gallery. A lakeside home in Kamshet, Maharashtra, is also presented, owned by dance practitioner Avantika Bahl and consultant Avinash Goyal. This property, located on a unique lakeside parcel in the ghats, is described as extraordinary, with dancing grasses and a design that resonates with Bahl's artistic sensibilities. The home is characterized by a series of pavilions that offer increasingly spectacular lake views. Its design is intended to appear naturally integrated into the environment, featuring elements like colorful living room blocks that interact with sunlight and a half-moon shaped pool that mirrors the lake, creating a celestial impression. The fourth property is a coffee estate in Coorg, converted into a vacation home by Studio 4A co-founders Vijay Narayanan and Appachu Nanjappa. This 4,000-square-foot, single-story, gable-roofed house is set amidst a coffee estate with distant views of elk hills, and its structure is subtly integrated into the elevated terrain. The architects emphasized celebrating the natural landscape and climate, incorporating tropical architectural elements such as long verandahs, courtyards, high ceilings, and folding doors. These features create interconnected outdoor spaces, including an exterior infinity swimming pool, stepped sunken seating, and a deck that extends from the living area. Finally, a blissful getaway in Karjat offers an elevated perspective of the hillside. This luxurious 8,000-square-foot, two-story abode, spanning over six acres, includes a garden, swimming pool, and gaming room, all enveloped by lush greenery. Amritha Karnakar, principal architect at AKAD, designed the interiors to be minimal, ensuring that the focus remains on the undulating hillside views and the tranquil Kalote lake. An infinity pool on the ground floor deck, complemented by sunbeds, allows residents to immerse themselves in the green vistas, making it an ideal weekend retreat from the urban bustle of Mumbai. #HolidayHomes #InfinityPools #LuxuryTravel #ArchitecturalDesign #EcoConsciousHomes #LakesideProperties #CoffeeEstateHomes #ModernAesthetic