Solum carves "labyrinthine" alleyway through coastal home in Italy

Artistic Tile recently hosted a design-focused journey through Northern Italy for a select group of guests, offering an exclusive look into the origins of their renowned stone materials. This trip, which took place shortly before Salone del Mobile in Milan, provided participants with an immersive experience, showcasing the quarries and factories where Artistic Tile sources its high-quality stone. The initiative was led by Artistic Tile's Zach Epstein, Lauren Cherkas, and Michael Epstein. The journey commenced at the Cornalita quarry, celebrated for its Arabescato Orobico marble. Here, guests were given firsthand insight into the meticulous process of cultivating stone, from its raw extraction to its transformation into large, heavy cubelike pieces. The family-owned brand emphasized the regional significance of their sourcing, allowing designers to witness the sheer scale and effort involved in quarrying. Following an al fresco dinner within the quarry, attendees visited a gallery displaying finished marble slabs before traveling to Verona to appreciate its historic architecture. Next, the group was given a private tour of Santamargherita, a factory located in Valpolicella. This facility specializes in creating modern interpretations of Italian terrazzo by blending marble chips with resin. The tour highlighted how various sizes and colors of marble are combined to produce diverse styles, including Artistic Tile’s exclusive Veronese Nero, Crema, and Multi Colore. The cultural and culinary aspects of Italy were also integrated into the trip, with a visit to Caseificio Montecoppe, where participants learned about the traditional production of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. The tour then proceeded to the Carrara region, a historically significant area for marble extraction. Designers explored another distinct quarry, established by the Fabbricotti family in 1722, known for yielding unique varieties such as Zebrino Macchia Vecchia and Manhattan Dark. The culmination of the quarry visits was the Piastraio quarry, situated at an elevation of 5,000 feet in the Apuan Alps. This high-altitude location is the source of heavily brecciated ivory and grey Arabescato Corchia marble. After tracing the marble’s journey from excavation, designers visited the Savema headquarters. Here, they observed the intricate processes of cutting, finishing, and crating the stone, completing their understanding of the material's transformation from natural resource to finished product. Claus Rademacher, founder of Claus Rademacher Architects, remarked on the trip, calling it an “incredible experience” that will be long remembered, underscoring the comprehensive and memorable nature of the itinerary provided by Artistic Tile. #ArtisticTile #NorthernItaly #MarbleQuarries #StoneSourcing #ItalianDesign #DesignTrip #SaloneDelMobile #Terrazzo #CarraraMarble

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

This article details a DIY home improvement project undertaken by Instagram and TikTok user Crystal Lynn Boyle, also known as @Crystal_lynn_home. The project focuses on transforming a plain concrete entryway into a more inviting and visually appealing space using a stencil hack to create a brick effect. Initially, the entryway featured a colorless concrete path and plain, sepia-toned walls, along with an uninspired front door. Boyle's motivation stemmed from a desire to inject personality and color into her home's entrance, particularly as budget constraints limited other extensive renovations. The transformation began with the front door, which Boyle painted a rich, jewel-like shade of emerald green after consulting her followers. This change provided a significant visual uplift, moving from a faded door to one with considerable character. Encouraged by the dramatic improvement, Boyle extended her makeover efforts to the concrete walkway. She drew inspiration from other social media influencers who had performed similar flooring flips, ultimately deciding on a herringbone brick paint effect for her path. The process involved several detailed stages. First, the concrete surface required extensive cleaning to ensure proper adhesion of the subsequent layers. Following cleaning, Boyle applied Behr Concrete and Masonry Bonding Primer using a foam roller brush. The base layer consisted of Behr Porch & Patio Floor Paint in the color Sculptor Clay, which immediately began to change the look of the walkway. For the intricate brick pattern, Boyle utilized the Herringbone Brick Wall Stencil from Royal Design Studio. She applied this stencil with a 2-inch stencil brush, carefully dabbing Behr Porch & Patio Floor Paint in Simply White for the main brick color. To minimize paint bleed, she applied the paint from the inside of each brick outline outwards. After the initial white brick application, Boyle meticulously hand-painted individual bricks, mixing the two paint colors in varying amounts to create different shades of gray. This technique added depth, dimension, and allowed for touch-ups, making the brick pattern appear more realistic and varied. The final step in the process was to protect the newly painted surface with Behr Low-Lustre Sealer, ensuring the durability and longevity of the DIY project. The result was a visually stunning "gray herringbone" brick path leading to the emerald green front door, effectively transforming the mundane entryway into a dream-like entrance. #DIYHomeImprovement #EntrywayDesign #ConcreteTransformation #BrickStencil #HomeDecor #PaintProject #BeforeAndAfter #InteriorDesign #CreativeRenovation

The online tile retailer clé has unveiled its new Artist Cement Collection, a series of handmade encaustic cement tiles. This collection is a collaborative effort, featuring designs from eleven artist studios spanning Europe, South America, and the United States. The curated group of artists, architects, designers, and sculptors includes ALT for Living, Boris Aldridge, Coletivo Muda, Deborah Osburn, Erica Tanov, Gachot Studios, John Whitmarsh, Michelle Weinberg, Ruan Hoffmann, Sarah & Ruby, and Smink Things. The Artist Cement Collection showcases a diverse range of aesthetic styles, moving from bold, graphic geometric patterns to motifs inspired by nature, and even incorporating typography. Each tile is available in 8-inch by 8-inch square and hexagonal formats, offering flexibility in design application. A key feature of these tiles is their pre-polished and pre-sealed finish, which enhances their durability and versatility. This treatment makes them suitable for a wide array of applications, both indoors and outdoors, and for installation on either walls or floors, expanding their potential use in various architectural and interior design projects. Among the featured designs, Coletivo Muda contributes the 'Lagoa' tile, which appears multiple times in the illustrations, highlighting its distinct appeal. Michelle Weinberg's contributions include 'Pattern 1' and 'Pattern 2,' demonstrating a varied artistic approach. Smink Things presents several designs that bear its studio name, indicating a unique and recognizable style. Ruan Hoffmann offers a selection of patterns, including 'Amsterdam Express,' 'Arrow Dynamic,' and 'Bio Circuit,' each bringing a different visual narrative to the collection. Deborah Osburn's 'Manuscript Letters' introduces a textual element, adding another dimension to the tile offerings. Boris Aldridge provides 'Pattern 4' and 'Pattern 5,' showcasing his design philosophy. Gachot Studios also features 'Pattern 4,' suggesting a potentially different interpretation or variation from Aldridge's similarly named pattern. Erica Tanov presents 'Baccio' and 'Jacobson,' contributing unique artistic expressions. Finally, Sarah and Ruby's 'Pattern 5' completes the selection of artists and their designs, ensuring a rich and diverse collection for consumers and designers. The collection emphasizes both artistic expression and practical application. The use of cement as a medium for these artistic designs provides a tactile and durable surface, while the handcrafted nature of the tiles ensures uniqueness in each piece. The curated selection of artists from various global locations brings a wide spectrum of cultural and artistic influences to the collection, allowing for a broad appeal across different design preferences and styles. The collection aims to provide distinctive and high-quality options for residential and commercial spaces, allowing for personalization and artistic flair in surface design. #CementTiles #ArtistDesigned #EncausticTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileCollection #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HandmadeTiles #GlobalArtists

In the quiet Italian town of Spilimbergo, the Scuola dei Mosaicisti del Friuli stands as a unique institution dedicated to the preservation and evolution of mosaic art. Established in 1922, the school was founded to formalize training for local artisans and maintain a mosaic tradition deeply rooted in the region's history, extending back to the Roman Empire. Today, it remains the sole academic institution globally focused exclusively on mosaic arts, attracting students from diverse backgrounds and ages, from recent high school graduates to seasoned professionals, all seeking to master this intricate craft. The three-year program at the school is rigorous, immersing students in historical mosaic techniques such as Greco-Roman patterns and Byzantine compositions, before encouraging experimentation with contemporary, freeform designs. Annually, approximately 40 students are admitted, but only about 15 successfully complete the full curriculum, earning the esteemed title of _maestri mosaicisti_ (mosaic masters). A select few, typically six, further pursue a fourth year, likened to a master's degree, to refine their skills even more. Director Gian Piero Brovedani emphasizes that becoming a maestro mosaicista demands significant effort and discipline, highlighting the craft's humbling and exacting nature, which fosters patience, attention to detail, and an appreciation for repetitive tasks. Mosaic creation is an exceptionally precise art form, requiring artists to meticulously arrange hundreds, or even thousands, of tiny pieces called _tesserae_—some as small as 0.5cm—to construct elaborate patterns and lifelike scenes. These tesserae, made from materials like marble, glass, _smalto_ (opaque glass tiles), and shells, necessitate careful craftsmanship and an intuitive understanding of rhythm and placement. Cristina de Leoni, a third-year teacher, notes the collaborative and selfless aspect of mosaic-making, where individual tiles only gain significance when combined with others, creating a collective artwork without emphasizing individual ego. The rich history of mosaics, tracing back to Mesopotamia in the 3rd millennium BCE and spanning various cultures including Greek, Maya, Byzantine, and Islamic civilizations, underscores its reliance on anonymous virtuosity rather than individual artistic fame. Friuli-Venezia Giulia has remained a stronghold of this tradition, fueled by an abundance of stones from the Tagliamento river and strong cultural links to Venice. In the 19th century, Friulian artist Gian Domenico Facchina revolutionized the craft with the _rovescio su carta_ (reverse on paper) method, enabling off-site assembly of large mosaic panels, a technique first showcased in the foyer of Paris' Opéra Garnier. Today, Friulian mosaicists, many trained in Spilimbergo, have contributed to prominent projects worldwide, from Rome's Foro Italico to the New York City subway at the World Trade Center, and from Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulchre to galleries in Tokyo. The art form continues to evolve, embracing both precision and expression. Purnima Allinger, a student, describes mosaics as a meditative yet expressive craft that keeps artists fully engaged. Amos Carcano, a Swiss maestro mosaicista, highlights the blend of manual work, invention, and exploration of texture, color, and patterns in contemporary mosaics. Carcano is currently part of a team working on a monumental 1,265-sq-m mosaic floor for the school's courtyard, depicting Friuli's native flora and fauna. The school operates as a _bottega_ (workshop), where students learn through hands-on practice, as explained by mosaic history teacher Danila Venuto. Visitors can also engage with the art through _corsi brevi_ (short courses) ranging from four-day to week-long programs, offering an introduction to mosaic creation. Guided and independent tours provide access to an archive of over 800 mosaic works and opportunities to observe students and masters at work. Spilimbergo itself serves as an open-air gallery, with mosaics adorning buildings, shops, and restaurants. The town also hosts mosaic shops and showrooms, displaying works by alumni, and offers visits to Fabbrica di Mosaici Mario Donà, a historic kiln producing enamels for mosaics. The region's natural landscape, particularly the _grave_ (river-washed stones) from the Tagliamento and the Magredi plain, provides the essential materials and inspiration for many Friulian mosaics, underscoring the deep connection between the art and its environment. Mosaic-making is a central part of Friuli's cultural identity, and the school invites curious individuals to partake in this enduring legacy. #MosaicArt #ItalianCraftsmanship #ArtEducation #Spilimbergo #FriuliVeneziaGiulia #AncientTradition #ContemporaryArt #ArtisanalSkills #TravelDestination

This article details the journey of Amy and Bruce Paul in designing and decorating their 11,000-square-foot home in Rye, New York, focusing on integrating their extensive art collection into a cohesive interior design. Having previously lived in a post-modern home with traditional furnishings and a growing contemporary art collection, the Pauls sought to create a new residence where the exterior architecture and interior aesthetics were harmoniously aligned with their personal taste in design and art. Their objective was to construct a home that could comfortably accommodate their family of six while optimally showcasing their practiced and perfected collection of paintings and sculptures. The couple acquired a 13-acre estate in Rye before the 2001 World Trade Center attacks, subdividing it into seven lots and reserving a two-plus-acre parcel for their own home. They collaborated with builder Michael DiChiaro to construct a six-bedroom, seven-full-bath residence that offers views of a wooded yard, later enhanced with a pool and waterfall by Coral Sea Pools, and adorned with bronze sculptures by Mexican artist Bruno Luna. For the interior design, Amy Paul enlisted Joseph R. Stabile of J.R. Cattington, who had previously worked with them. Stabile and his team were involved from the ground up, providing input on architectural design, interior finishes, electrical layouts, and lighting selection. Stabile chose a palette of cream and gold to complement the Pauls' artwork and suggested structural modifications, such as adding a doorway to improve flow in the formal living room. Amy's primary design directive was for a "light and bright" home, which was achieved in the living room through buttery gold satin-striped fabric from Robert Allen for window treatments and crystal wall sconces by Crystorama. This room serves as a gallery for various notable paintings, including works by Janet Treby, Liane Abrieu, and Russian artists. The soft color scheme is accented by silk brocade wing chairs with colorful throw pillows and fuchsia and silk rugs from China. The family room continues the luminous theme with yellow walls, a toile pattern by Antonia Vella, Seabrook wallcoverings, and similarly colored fabrics in lemon, green, and persimmon for window treatments, pillows, and side chairs. Crystal chandeliers from Murano, imported by Castilian Imports, were chosen to coordinate with paintings by Isaac Maimon and Charles Levier. The coffered ceiling in a green apple shade with cream-colored woodwork further enhances the vibrant, garden-like atmosphere. Bruce Paul's personal space, a clubby card room, contrasts with Amy's preferences, featuring dark wood paneling, built-in bookcases, a bar, and masculine fabrics. This room, separated from the family room by a stone-front fireplace, includes Biedermeier chairs with leopard-print fabric and various personal artifacts. Stabile designed the fireplace with intricately carved mahogany lions and used a Serengeti Leopard carpet to connect Bruce’s adjoining office. The Pauls' children, Joanna, Ryan, Matt, and Jason, also contributed to the design of their respective bedrooms and bathrooms, incorporating elements such as Masland Carpets, Bernhardt furnishings, and Thibaut wallpapers. The master bedroom, with its vaulted ceiling, presented a challenge in scale, addressed by Stabile using Highland Court silk brocade for a cornice "headboard" that coordinates with custom curtains. The article highlights the Pauls' passion for art collection, which began with a French artist Charles Levier painting and expanded to include works from their travels to Europe, South America, Asia, and the Southwest. Despite concerns about diminishing wall space, their quest for art, driven by personal connection and memories from their travels, continues. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #ArtCollection #LuxuryHome #RyeResidence #JosephStabile #CustomDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #PersonalStyle

Interior design studio Deferrari+Modesti completed a full refurbishment of a two-storey 1980s villa in Prato, Tuscany, Italy. The renovation includes a distinctive blue staircase designed to double as a climbing wall, reflecting the owners' passion for rock climbing. The architects, Javier Deferrari and Lavinia Modesti, aimed for the staircase to be a central and highly functional element, connecting spaces while possessing a strong identity. The staircase is constructed from teak wood and powder-coated iron, featuring perforated sheet metal for its upper steps. This design choice transitions the staircase from a solid structure at the base to a permeable form higher up, allowing light and movement to filter through. A metal bench and a wooden storage box are integrated beneath the stairs, facing the living room. The open structure of the staircase also allows for improvised climbing, with the iron bars serving as handholds. The ground floor of the villa, which encompasses living areas and bedrooms, was updated with an integrated furnishing system. This system, painted in the same bright blue as the staircase, unifies different zones such as the living room, a reading and music corner, a dining room, and the kitchen. The reading and music corner features the furnishing system as a bookcase with an additional bench and storage, serving to delineate this space from the adjacent dining area, where the integrated furniture continues as cabinets. This cohesive design approach creates a sense of continuity throughout the living spaces, while each area retains its distinct identity. The sunken living room includes wall panels that conceal a bar cabinet, also in the signature blue shade. Recycled teak slats are used for the wooden floors, providing a contrasting element to the integrated blue furnishings. Additionally, two bedrooms and two bathrooms are discreetly located behind a flush-to-wall door on the ground floor. The upper floor is dedicated to a living and study area, complete with an additional bathroom and a spacious terrace. Deferrari+Modesti, established in 2010, specializes in interior, exhibition, and product design. The project showcases how a functional element like a staircase can be transformed into a playful and visually striking focal point that caters to the specific interests of the homeowners. The design exemplifies a creative approach to integrating a hobby into a home's core architectural features, enhancing both aesthetics and usability. #InteriorDesign #VillaRenovation #TuscanArchitecture #RockClimbingStaircase #CustomFurniture #IntegratedDesign #HomeRefurbishment #PlayfulInteriors #DeferrariModesti

Matharoo Associates designed Up to the Sea, a multi-generational concrete home situated in Dumas, India, featuring a network of cubic concrete volumes and staircases. The residence caters to four generations of a single family, integrating traditional Indian design principles with modern architectural elements. The house is built on a stone base on a grassy coastal site, allowing for views of the surrounding landscape and the nearby Arabian Sea. A central, light-filled stairwell forms the core of the home, drawing inspiration from ancient Indian stairwells. This central void is illuminated by a skylight, and linear staircases with reflective balustrades wrap around its edges, connecting to balconies on each level. The design aims to maintain a sense of connection among family members while providing individual private spaces. Each generation is accommodated in distinct suites arranged around the central stairwell. The first floor includes a guest suite for the client's daughter and her family, while the second floor is divided into a main couple's suite and a separate area for the family's son and his family. The material palette within the private areas combines timber panels and joinery with exposed concrete walls and polished floors, creating a textured environment. Bathrooms feature rough-textured tiles on the walls and polished dark floors that reflect natural light from narrow windows. Communal areas are located on the ground floor, including living spaces that open onto an outdoor dining area. This outdoor space extends along the side of the house and adjoins a long swimming pool. The dining area, characterized by warm-toned wooden wall panelling and bright yellow dining chairs, is located next to the grandmother's bedroom. A kitchen wraps around the other side of the central stairwell. The living room on the ground floor is furnished with modern pieces and features dark materials such as a black floor and dark stone walls. Matharoo Associates prioritized capturing sea views from the terrace, a key client request given the home's coastal location away from the city. The architectural firm has a history of designing innovative concrete homes in India, including a house in Chennai that wraps around courtyards and another with a facade made of spinning marble panels, demonstrating their consistent approach to material use and spatial organization. #MultiGenerationalHomes #ConcreteHouses #ResidentialArchitecture #Concrete #India #IndianHouses #MatharooAssociates #CoastalLiving #ModernArchitecture

K-Studio has designed Southwand House, a holiday home located in the Navarino Dunes resort area of Costa Navarino, Messinia, Greece. This architectural project integrates vertical stone walls with horizontal concrete planes, creating a dwelling that blends modernist aesthetics with traditional regional influences. The stone, sourced from local quarries, is prominently featured both on the exterior and interior, providing a textured contrast to the smooth concrete roof slabs. The design of Southwand House draws inspiration from the stone "tower houses" prevalent in the Messinia region, known for their monumental stone structures. The architects sought to create an interplay between these rough-hewn vertical elements and the sleek horizontal concrete, fostering a sense of seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This combination blurs boundaries and allows for a feeling of outdoor lightness within the interior, while offering a sense of protection when outdoors. The house occupies a linear plot with significant natural surroundings, including a sea view to the southwest, an olive grove to the north, and a golf course to the southeast. At the core of the design is a central courtyard featuring an established olive tree, which serves to divide the floor plan into two distinct halves. The east side of the house accommodates communal living areas, while four bedrooms are situated on the west side and the first floor. K-Studio’s design philosophy for Southwand House emphasizes a fluid living experience, enabling various daily activities such as cooking, showering, lounging, and exercising to occur in both indoor and outdoor settings. The studio aimed to reflect the organic complexity of Messinian folk architecture, which often features irregularly-shaped stone volumes, courtyards, and passages. To achieve this, they developed a system of orthogonal modules that, when juxtaposed, generate intricate relationships through negative spaces, courtyards, and pathways. The southern end of the building is designed to open up, with the living and dining rooms, as well as an adjacent bedroom, leading out to terraces. A swimming pool extends from these outdoor spaces, wrapping around them and offering views towards the sea. The pool's stepped base provides varying depths, catering to diverse preferences. Southwand House is part of a series of projects by K-Studio, founded by brothers Dimitris and Konstantinos Karampatakis, in scenic Greek locations. Previous works include Villa Mandra in Mykonos, the Manna hotel in Arcadia, and the Liknon visitor centre in Samos. The name "Southwand" is derived from the practice of seeking warmth by resting against a south-facing wall on a sunny day, symbolizing a comfortable and active model of living that harmonizes with its natural environment and promotes social interaction. #HolidayHomes #GreekArchitecture #StoneConstruction #ConcreteDesign #KStudio #Messinia #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #CoastalLiving

Pezo Von Ellrichshausen has completed the 'Loba House,' a concrete structure nestled into the terrain of coastal Chile, overlooking a sea lion reserve on the Pacific Ocean. Described by the architects as "more than a hut but less than a house," the design strategically manipulates perceptions of proportion to achieve a monolithic appearance with an ambiguous scale. The opaque dwelling is situated in the Coliumo peninsula, Tome, VIII region, Chile, covering a built surface of 70 square meters (753 square feet) within a 1,000 square meter (10,764 square feet) plot. The design and construction phases took place in 2016 and 2017, respectively. The architectural concept interprets the building as an "inhabited wall" that runs perpendicular to the natural topography. Its narrow and tall proportion contributes to this perception. The height of this wall is defined by two primary elements: a continuous horizon line provided by the expansive ocean view and a series of six descending platforms that step down towards the sea. This terraced internal structure allows for varying ceiling heights and programmatic divisions within a single, open space. The roof of the 'Loba House' functions as an accessible terrace, serving as an extension of the natural landscape. From this vantage point, a stepped geometric structure offers a dedicated area for observing sunsets, providing an elevated perspective of the surrounding environment. Internally, the dwelling features a single, expansive room, which is strategically punctuated by three substantial concrete columns and two connecting bridges. This layout defines zones without rigid partitioning. Bedrooms are positioned on the higher of the six internal platforms, characterized by lower ceilings, creating a more intimate and enclosed sleeping environment. Conversely, areas designated for communal activities, such as living spaces or dining areas with sofas and tables, are located on the lower levels, benefiting from the greater height and openness. The interior illumination is carefully managed through precisely placed openings on both sides of the elongated volume, complemented by overhead skylights that ensure specific areas within the house receive natural light. A notable design detail is a corner aperture, framed by a round pillar, which features unframed glass flush with the exterior concrete surface, providing an unobstructed view. The construction was undertaken by Carvajal & Cabrer, with structural engineering by Peter Dechent and consultancy by Marcelo Valenzuela and Daniel Garrido. The project exemplifies a harmonious integration with its dramatic coastal setting, blurring the lines between architecture and landscape through its material palette and formal strategy. #ChileanArchitecture #CoastalDesign #ConcreteArchitecture #EmbeddedArchitecture #MonolithicDesign #PezoVonEllrichshausen #InhabitedWall #TerracedHouse #SkylightDesign

Marazzi, an Italian ceramics company, has launched its new Crogiolo Rice collection, a line of porcelain tiles designed with an authentic, handmade aesthetic. These tiles feature hand-painted designs and subtle irregularities, such as pitting, smears, and variations in texture, which contribute to their unique character and vibrant appearance when installed. The collection is inspired by thick-glazed majolica tiles, giving them a lustrous, glossy finish. The color palette primarily consists of whites and blues, aiming to impart a lively and welcoming atmosphere to interiors. The Crogiolo Rice tiles are part of Marazzi's broader Crogiolo collection, which represents the company's commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with industrial technology. This approach allows for the creation of ceramic products that celebrate authentic, colorful, and decorated designs while benefiting from modern manufacturing processes. The brand emphasizes that the minor imperfections in each tile, including grainy surfaces or slight chipping around the edges, are intentional features that enhance the handmade feel and ensure no two pieces are identical. Rectified edges allow for minimal joint lines, further highlighting the tiles' surface qualities. The collection is available in three distinct sizes: 15 by 15 centimeters, five by 15 centimeters, and 7.5 by 20 centimeters. These varying dimensions offer flexibility for different design applications. The subtle shifts in color tone, shadowing, and minute variations in the concave-convex forms are carefully controlled to create a visually rich and dynamic effect. Marazzi's design philosophy for the Crogiolo collection draws from its rich heritage, particularly from a series of booklets developed in the 1980s called 'Il Crogiolo.' These booklets documented 112 projects, illustrating various decorative techniques and capturing insights from potters and designers. This historical resource continues to serve as a source of inspiration for Marazzi's current product development, ensuring a continuity of craft and innovation. The Crogiolo Rice collection is positioned as a testament to Marazzi's ongoing research into materials, colors, glazes, and technological advancements, all while preserving the essence of handmade artistry. The tiles are suitable for various applications, bringing a touch of traditional charm and modern sophistication to residential and commercial spaces. #Marazzi #PorcelainTiles #Ceramics #HandmadeDesign #TileCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #BuildingMaterials #SurfaceDesign

The article details the transformation of a floating house in Sausalito, California, by designer Colleen Dowd Saglimbeni for Donna and Eric Colson. Sausalito is known for its unique community of floating homes, established in the late 1800s and later becoming a cultural hub for figures like Timothy Leary and Maya Angelou. These homes, distinct from houseboats, are situated on immobile barges, offering a unique waterfront living experience. The specific floating home, built in 1983, was in a dilapidated state when the Colsons purchased it as a weekend retreat. Dowd Saglimbeni undertook an extensive eight-month renovation, addressing both the structural challenges and the unique environmental demands of a waterfront property. The designer had to contend with the destructive nature of saltwater, necessitating the use of outdoor fabrics, bulletproof siding, and an all-electric kitchen. A critical aspect of the renovation involved balancing the weight of new installations like cabinets and a range by adjusting cinder blocks beneath the barge. Beyond the practical considerations, the design prioritizes a serene atmosphere and a layout conducive to entertaining. The open floor plan and panoramic views of Richardson Bay are central to the home's appeal. The community's communal and lively spirit is reflected in the design, with features that encourage social gatherings, such as a rooftop deck for parties. The article highlights specific design choices in various rooms, including the living and dining areas, kitchen, dining nook, powder room, primary bedroom, guest bedroom, kid's room, and rooftop deck. In the front entrance, red-orange chairs from Galanter & Jones, complementing the Golden Gate Bridge, invite neighborly interaction, with siding by Vytec. The living and dining rooms feature seaworthy furniture, including a custom dining table, Palecek dining chairs, a Jøtul stove, custom Cypress Furniture swivel chairs, and Anthem coffee tables. The kitchen emphasizes maximizing bay views, incorporating McGuire stools, vintage tiki and Blenko Glass Co. glassware, a Caesarstone island, and Pratt + Larson tiles. For the dining nook, built-in storage was essential for entertaining, with All Natural Stone floors, a Beachwood Home stool, Anthem banquette pillows and cushions, and a family heirloom table. The powder room features a nautical-themed wallpaper from a 1927 C.F.A. Voysey watercolor print, a Pot-Pourri mirror, a Stone Forest sink with Palmer Industries legs, and a Toto toilet. The primary bedroom provides a tranquil sleeping space with Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, a Palecek bed, Urban Electric sconces, a Made Goods side table, and custom Kravet Roman shades. The guest bedroom offers a soothing seaside-inspired retreat with a Pottery Barn headboard, Palecek side table, Bright on Presidio pendant, custom Cowtan & Tout Roman shades, and Phillip Jeffries wallcovering. The rooftop deck, made with waterproof sophisticated teak parquet, is furnished with Palecek furniture in Perennials fabric and a custom Sue Fisher King table, creating an idyllic setting for alfresco evenings. The article emphasizes how the renovation embraces the historical charm and unique lifestyle of Sausalito's floating home community while addressing the challenges of waterfront construction. #FloatingHome #Sausalito #HouseTour #InteriorDesign #WaterfrontLiving #HomeRenovation #ColleenDowdSaglimbeni #DesignInspiration #CaliforniaHomes

This article details the transformation of a four-bedroom home in Lely Resort, Naples, spearheaded by designer Julia Hall Liegeois of Julia Hall Designs, in collaboration with builder Joshua Brown of D. Brown Construction. The homeowners, who previously rented, purchased the house due to its meticulous upkeep and quality furnishings by the prior owner, despite the decor being outdated with a "Tommy Bahama look" in browns and tans. After living in the home for a few years, they decided to undertake a renovation, focusing on brightening the space while maintaining comfort and cohesion. The initial phase of the renovation involved significant changes in paint and fabrics. The entire home was painted white, a decision the homeowner initially hesitated about but ultimately embraced as transformative. This choice set a fresh, understated elegant tone, moving away from typical coastal design clichés. The common area floors were updated with shellstone-hued travertine, and the entryway was enhanced with matching vignettes featuring mirrors framed in faceted blue glass above rattan-wrapped console tables, chosen for their retro appeal and light-bouncing qualities. The existing furnishings, many of which had rattan or wicker detailing, were revitalized with a new blue-and-white upholstery scheme. This layering of energetic patterns in different scales introduced a modern aesthetic while ensuring the space felt balanced and avoided the coldness often associated with coastal modern designs. The main sofa in the sitting area, for instance, received a white fabric with an oversized strié-like pattern, contributing to the desired fresh ambiance. Cosmetic renovations extended to the kitchen and bathrooms. The bar cabinets, originally honey brown, were painted bright white and fitted with blackened-navy hardware, complemented by a Daltile Multitude in Modern Khaki backsplash. Kitchen cabinets were painted white and extended to the ceiling, enhancing the room's grandeur. A dark, bilevel peninsula counter was replaced with a single-layer brilliant quartzite counter, while wood-toned ceiling beams were retained to prevent the room from feeling overly modern. The guest bathroom was painted a deep navy and adorned with pebble-shaped iridescent tiles, adding textural art elements that tied the space together. The final touches involved incorporating statement lighting, wallpaper, textural art, and distinctive hardware. In the dining room, twin palm sculptures and a trio of coral-inspired discs were added. A chandelier with cascading crystal cylinders became a focal point over the breakfast nook. Orange accents in the family room provided a warm contrast to the blue and white palette, picking up tones from outdoor sculptural elements, ceiling beams, and a coffee table. Ombré Phillip Jeffries Mirage wallpaper panels, set within trim in the dining and living areas, emphasized the 12-foot ceilings and captured light, creating a cloud-like effect, particularly in the dining room where it formed a showstopping triptych. Many existing dining room pieces, such as a curved wood chandelier, rattan chairs, a sisal rug, and a planter (repainted from dark brown to bright white lacquer), were repurposed. These were updated with fresh textiles, including a striped ikat print on chair cushions and watercolor ombré stripes in the curtains, offering an updated coastal modern look. A mix of traditional and modern ginger jars served as a scaled centerpiece. The design approach highlighted that significant transformation can be achieved by reimagining existing pieces and incorporating thoughtful new details, creating a fresh, collected, and timeless aesthetic. #CoastalStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #NaplesDesign #JuliaHallDesigns #HomeTours #DesignInspiration #ModernCoastal

The Patio House, designed by Solum Studio, is a residential project located in Sicily, Italy, specifically in the province of Syracuse. The house is positioned on a narrow strip of land that extends towards the sea, concluding on a cliff, and is designed to fully occupy the buildable area of the plot. Its architectural concept focuses on creating an introverted oasis that strategically opens up to embrace the seascape through its living areas. The design of the Patio House is characterized by its longitudinal development, running from the access road towards the sea. This layout allows for a sequential experience, starting from an enclosed, private arrival point and gradually transitioning to expansive views of the sea. The introverted nature of the initial spaces provides a sense of seclusion and privacy, which then gives way to an open and airy living area that acts as a direct interface with the natural coastal environment. Key architectural elements and materials used in the project include concrete, which contributes to the structural integrity and aesthetic of the building. The choice of materials and the overall design aim to create a harmonious balance between robust construction and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The project's emphasis on a patio or courtyard structure suggests an interior-focused design that likely incorporates natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience while maintaining privacy from external views, except for the deliberate openings towards the sea. The project was completed in 2025 and covers an area of 400 square meters. The architectural team involved Mattia Agates, Lorenzo Campagna, Filippo Gismondi, and Alessandro Loda from Solum Studio, with Gian Mario Vecchiato as a collaborator. Nicolò Panzeri is credited for the photography, capturing the essence of the house and its relationship with the Sicilian landscape. Manufacturers such as Carl Hansen, Fornace Sant'Anselmo, Ideal Work, Sicilianagessi, and dnd contributed to various aspects of the house, indicating a selection of quality materials and furnishings. This residential architecture project is categorized under houses and highlights contemporary design principles tailored to its unique coastal site. The strategic placement and orientation of the house demonstrate an understanding of both environmental factors and the desire to create a private yet visually connected living space. The use of a patio and the intentional opening towards the sea suggest a thoughtful approach to balancing indoor and outdoor living, privacy, and engagement with the natural surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Avola #Italy #SolumStudio #Concrete #CoastalDesign #PatioHouse

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of Los Angeles-based designer Sarah Solis in transforming a Hancock Park home into a Mediterranean villa. The clients, a young artistic family in the entertainment industry, sought a home that would foster creativity and evoke a European vacation feel. Solis focused on restoring and enhancing the home's original Spanish architecture, which included features like exposed beams and arches that had been previously concealed. She also added more arches to maintain architectural integrity, particularly at the entrance and between rooms, aligning with the 1920s Spanish and Mediterranean home styles. A central aspect of Solis's design approach is storytelling, employing an intuitive method to styling. She created a cohesive yet vibrant home by blending rich colors, various woods, velvets, metal, and tiles, aiming for both comfort and elegance. Solis emphasizes the significant role of texture in shaping a home's experience, illustrating this with the use of velvet red sofas for luxury and leather chairs for a formal touch in the dining area. The kitchen achieves casual elegance through a wood and metal combination, while the bedroom offers an ethereal feel with soft linens and subtle patterns. This combination of diverse materials allows the space to be suitable for both entertaining and relaxation. The designer notes that the strategic use of materials helps soften strong colors, as seen with the bright red velvet sofa in the living room, which makes it more luxurious and inviting. Artwork was another crucial element, selected to be visionary and reflective of the clients' artistic backgrounds. Solis sourced unique, original pieces for nearly every room, ensuring they harmonized with the existing color palettes and added depth. The goal was to create an inspiring yet livable space, avoiding a 'too precious' feel and promoting a sense of relaxation throughout. Given the home's California location, indoor-outdoor living was a priority. Solis capitalized on the abundant natural light by installing layered window treatments—woven shades topped with fabric—to control light levels while adding an organic touch. The master bathroom features a massive copper tub positioned to face the sunlight, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The patio area mirrors the interior's aesthetic, incorporating similar textures and tiles for the fountain and built-in bench, which was updated with Moroccan zellige, thus creating a serene and cohesive outdoor environment. Solis concludes that these small, thoughtful details are instrumental in elevating and enlivening the entire space. #MediterraneanDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SarahSolis #LuxuryLiving #TexturalDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArtisticHome

This article details the renovation of an apartment located on the third floor of an ancient building near the Palau de la Música in Barcelona, Spain. The project, undertaken by Colombo and Serboli Architecture, was designed for a young Italian fashion designer seeking a serene and warm living space in the Catalan capital. The architects were immediately captivated by the apartment's open proportions and five-meter-high ceilings, and sought to preserve and enhance existing charming elements such as massive wooden beams, wooden floors, a mezzanine overlooking the living area, and two-floor metal windows. A key challenge involved rationalizing a compact bathroom and replacing structurally compromised stairs leading to the second level. The design philosophy embraced a 'wabi-sabi' approach, integrating original features and imperfections while maintaining the apartment's inherent charm. Shapes employed are simple and bold, featuring recurring basic forms like squares, circles, and spheres, with sturdy solid surfaces to complement the monumental existing elements. The architects drew inspiration from the architectural styles of Luis Barragán and Carlo Scarpa, with Scarpa's influence particularly evident in the sculptural stairs and a central furniture piece that defines the entire project. The core concept revolves around a multifunction block, a layered central element around which the space and activities are organized, maintaining an open, loft-like layout. The dining area extends from the central stair element. On the kitchen side, the block incorporates niches, openings, and shelves for tableware and pantry storage. A substantial, arch-shaped travertine marble slab protrudes from the block, forming a one-legged dining table and an integrated bench. A small square niche cleverly conceals a spotlight, functioning as a disguised sconce. The stairs themselves are conceptualized as layers of materials, transitioning from a solid plinth to wooden block steps, then to a suspended micro-cement landing with a half-circle cutout designed to accommodate a tall plant. The final steps, made of light-colored wood, appear to float and double as a light source above the dining table through integrated LED strips. On the second level, the bedroom area remains open to the living space. A wicker panel serves dual functions as both a headboard and a balustrade. A suspended ledge, inspired by Paul Rudolph's Halston House, runs along the double-height space, forming bedside tables and a display shelf for the living area. The closet in the bedroom is designed as a warm monolith, clad in woven wicker screens. One screen cleverly conceals the entrance to a small bathroom, another hides a hand washbasin within a mirrored box, and a third integrates the stair's handrail through a diagonal cut. The bathroom is finished with vertical ceramic tiles featuring an elegant nacre finish, introducing a new texture to the apartment's overall palette of neutral shades. The architects utilized a neutral color palette but played with a variety of finishes, ranging from glossy to rough, selecting materials based on their tactile and textural qualities. These include white microcement for the stairs and seat block, light natural wood, and woven wicker panels. Enameled painted walls reflect light, contrasting with matte microcement, a rough travertine slab, and porcelain kitchen tops. A textured bouclé fabric was chosen for seat cushions, and brushed steel details, such as in the bespoke cooker hood, complete the material palette. #BarcelonaApartment #WabiSabiDesign #StaircaseDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColomboSerboliArchitecture #ModernLiving #MaterialPalette #FashionDesignerHome