june 2024

LEADING BY DESIGN

TIME FOR
CHANGE
D I S C OV E R S U M M E R ’ S N E W PA L E T T E A N D
H O U S E S W I T H T R A N S F O R M AT I V E C O L O U R
TH E VE RY B EST OUTDOOR FU RNITU RE
MEET THE TRAILBLAZERS
A LT E R I N G T H E FAC E O F D E C O R
 CONTENTS

june 2024
news & v iews houses
15 EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT… Circular craft, 56 SAN FRANCISCO HOME A classic Edwardian-style
textile innovations, surrealism in fashion and interiors property has been given a contemporary twist with
vibrant colour and dynamic art pieces
16 MATERIAL MATTERS New surfaces on our radar
with eco credentials, modern qualities and more 68 M A J O R C A N TOW N H O U S E Respectful
restorat ion is en ha nced by custom-desig ned
22 I N T E RV I E W D e sig ner Jor i s L a a r m a n’s work
furniture, curated designer pieces and antiques in
poetically merges design and science
this divine island home
30 DESIGN REPORT Contemporary skylights are using
78 LOS ANGELES PAD Filled w ith bold, eclect ic
modern tech and design to let in light beautifully
designs, this cool new build seamlessly marries the
35 HERO PIECE Mimi Shodeinde’s futuristic sofa distinctive tastes of its artistic, globe-trotting owners
37 DESIGN ICON Designer Ron Arad’s latest work is as 88
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLE FRANZEN

MILAN APARTMENT Delicious sorbet shades and

boundary-breaking as ever Italia n desig n f lair a re a r tf ully combined in this
family-friendly period home
42 DESIGN PROFILE American artist and activist Malene
Djenaba Barnett on her legacy-making mission 96 LISBON ABODE B eaut i f u l ly cra f t ed be spoke
element s a nd cu r ves i n a ll the r ig ht places have
46 GARDEN REPORT Leading designers reveal how
created a sculptural oasis full of drama and intrigue
we can create an environmentally healthy garden
52 LIVINGETC DESIGN, DIRECTED In our new series
106 COPENHAGEN BOATHOUSE A love of waterside
l i v i ng le d t he a r c h it e c t ow ner s of a ne g le c t e d
de sig ner L ee Broom t el ls u s how de sig n w it h a
boathouse to give it a design-led revamp
narrative can give you an emotional response

livingetc.com 7
CONTENTS

decorat i ng clever
118 SOFT POWER Outdoor fabrics whose beauty lies in 155 IN THE KNOW The latest launches a nd looks in
their understated weaves and fine geometric patterns kitchens and bathrooms
126 COLOUR DECODED A v iv id l iv i ng room t hat 157 SECRET ADDRESS BOOK Textured tiles
celebrates the pure joy of colour
158 DESIGN FEATURE OF THE MOMENT Create a soft,
128 ENTRANCE EXAM Make a fabulous first impression silky finish on walls with tactile Moroccan plaster
with these ideas for wow-worthy entryways
164 SMALL SPACES, BIG IDEAS Bring the outdoors in
with a lushly planted courtyard garden

sou rcebook
140 LITTLE BLACK BOOK Go-tos for outdoor textiles l i fes t y le
143 GLOBAL OUTLOOK Design news from the US 170 HOTEL HOT LIST Relaxing stays with spas

144 THE BIG TICKET Dream alfresco bar ideas even for 174 SEE YOU IN BERLIN Explore the city that never sleeps
smaller urban spaces
178 NEXT BIG THING The new design studio to know
147 O N TH E R I S E T h i s mont h we fo c u s on f lor a l

148
designers, showcasing Peckham’s Sage Flowers

THE SPOTLIGHT: WHAT TO BUY NOW The hottest

a nd the rest
10 EDITOR’S LETTER
new pieces on our shopping list this month with a
focus on garden pieces for a beautiful summer 114 SUBSCRIBE TODAY Three issues for just £3

8 livingetc.com
 G
N GN
T I I
U T S
T
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Y H E F
T A T O
S G E
E D Be the first to find out about the
next decor trends and newest
shapes, materials and moods
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S U B S C R I B E N OW –
3 ISSUES FOR £3
MORE DETAIL S ON PAG E 114
 EDITOR ’ S LE T TER

TIME FOR
CHANGE
They say a change is as good as a rest, but isn’t it surely better to
have both? I’m working towards that goal as we speak – midway
through a bathroom refurb that will change how we use this
house (thanks to the steam room function added to the shower)
and, with warmer weather finally here, I’m looking forward to
long afternoons outdoors with nothing to do but relax.
This issue also has both those ends in mind. Change is in
the air, and has been for the last three years, since designers
totally altered their approach away from how rooms look to

Pip Rich how they feel. There’s a new excitement and sense of creativity
Global Editor in Chief – even possibility – afoot, so the front section of the magazine
@pip.rich
focusses on the trailblazers leading the way. We’ve heroed
new materials that make homes better to live in, spoken to
visionaries about what they’re doing next and looked at the
trends coming over the horizon for all areas of the home.
Then our focus shif ts to the great outdoors with the
furniture, the fabrics and the freshest advice for making the
most of whatever alfresco space you have. Realistically, after
my bathroom, I won’t be building a garden bar like the one on
page 144 but I am taking note of the stools that go with it –
perfect for when friends or extended family drop by.
Lastly, I want to highlight my chat with the designer
Lee Broom on page 52 and his decree that we could – and
perhaps should – curate our furniture with as much care as we
do the art that goes on our walls. He talks about how rich a piece
can be if you spend one extra minute sniffing out the story
behind it and understanding why it is how it is. Another little
change I’ll be actioning in my decorating practices that I think
will make a big difference to the way my home makes me feel.
PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE) JON DAY

W H AT I ’ M I N TO T H I S M O N T H
1 Every room the designers LALA Reimagined put
together. This may well be a hint for what to expect
next issue...

2 Ca’ Pietra’s Long Island marble tiles. About to be Scan this QR

hung in the bathroom and I couldn’t be more excited. code to enjoy
3 Designer Tom Morris’ use of a moody beige wall Livingetc in your
inbox with our
paint with sky blue cabinetry in a recent bedroom
project of his. Perfection. email newsletter

livingetc.com 11
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12 livingetc.com
 M E TA L WO R K S
Steel is an inherently sustainable material
thanks to its ability to be forever reusable.
Historically, in our opinion, it’s been a
criminally underused material in interiors
– but now designers are crafting luxe-
looking pieces that cast off the material’s
associations with ‘industrial’ style and
instead let it sit comfortably among
contemporary schemes. Kristina Dam
Studio is one of those: the brand’s 2024
collection includes its Foldable series, a
range of clean-lined shelving with a nod
to that industrial aesthetic (but far more
refined). But our pick of the collection is
the Solitude lounge chair, with a sculptural
shape and the dream combination of
steel arms and creamy boucle upholstery.

Solitude lounge chair,

€2,600, Kristina Dam Studio

THE DESIGNS , PEOPLE AND LOOKS MOVING THE DESIGN AGENDA FORWARD
– FROM CUT TING -EDGE MATERIALS TO SUSTAINABLY-LED CR AF T STUDIOS

livingetc.com 15
 material matters
X

force of nature
Meet the Danish studio whose bio-based work is at the crest
of a new wave of materials for lighting, textiles, panels and more

There’s an ever-growing buzz about

biomaterials in the design industry,
from plant leather to hempcrete. One of
the company’s at the forefront of the
m ove m e nt i s C o p e n h a g e n - b a s e d
Natural Material Studio, founded by
Bonnie Hvillum, whose research is
resulting in some of the most exciting
products out there right now – think
p a n e l s m a d e f r o m le f t ove r b e e r
for a brewery’s new restaurant or lights
crafted from bio-polymers and chalk,
showcased at Alcova Miami in December
and available to buy. Most recently, the
studio collaborated with House of Grey
on a workspace project in Shoreditch,
creating hanging bio-algae wall panels.
pictured, to incorporate the grounding
effect of nature into a city context.

PHOTOGRAPH MICHAEL SINCLAIR

16 livingetc.com
 e v e r y o n e ’s t a l k i n g a b o u t . . .
X

future fabrics
These designers are pushing the boundaries of traditional
crafts to create textiles that are inventive and beautiful

MOVE WITH
THE TIMES FINE LINES
Sophie Jungkvist The Belgian textile designer Emma Terweduwe takes
graduated with a master’s a considered approach to her work, blending the
degree from the Swedish digital and physical realms to make woven treasures
School of Textiles in 2022 for the home. Applying digital tools at the design
and her degree project stage, she then produces each piece by hand, utilising
– Woven Change, Shifting natural materials to create striking graphic patterns.
Expressions – won an The designer’s latest work, Beyond Bold, consists of
award at Ung Svensk reversible jacquard woven blankets and pillows in four
Form 2023. Pushing the colourways. From €145, Emma Terweduwe
boundaries of woven
craft, the designer has
created five textiles that
change their appearance
through adjustments
between two layers,
causing the transparency,
pattern and colour to
adapt. Sophie Jungkvist

D I G I TA L A G E
Boasting a unique digital
embroidery stitch that morphs
colours as the textile moves,
DUO-HUE is the brainchild of
FEATURE RODDY CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHS (MOVE WITH THE TIMES) SOPHIE JUNGKVIST

Amelia Ayerst, who developed

this innovation while studying at
the Royal College of Art. Having
created a homeware, fashion and
art collection using the textile, the
studio has gone on to work with
international firms such as Dyson
and Heatherwick Studio. From
£120, DUO-HUE

past meets present

Gathering awards since his 2016 graduate show at
Central Saint Martins, Jacob Monk fuses traditional
ikat techniques with dip-dyeing processes to achieve
a unique result. The Collision collection includes this
rug design hand-knotted from wool (left) and striking
textile artwork. From £1,650, Jacob Monk

livingetc.com 19
 e v e r y o n e ’s t a l k i n g a b o u t . . .
X

circular craft
A sustainable mindset doesn’t mean a compromise on
aesthetics, as these cutting-edge craft studios show

Z E R O WA S T E
Textile designer Freya
Walke r is se e king to
retro rev iva l
encourage customers to With 60s-inspired flair, the limited-edition
turn from the pitfalls of a
throwaway culture by furniture designs of Senimo bring a pop of retro
creating homeware through
upcycling and considered to the home. Led by carpenter Fabien Colomines,
production methods. Freya
hand-weaves her creations the French studio creates each of its pieces from
from sustainable, recycled
or waste materials with MDF offcuts that are carved into unique shapes
her cushions made entirely
from the offcuts of the then finished in materials like high-gloss
making of her lamb’s wool
blankets. £95, Freya Walker coloured lacquer. From €5,100, Senimo

AHEAD OF
THE CURVE
South African designer
and woodworker David
Krynauw’s new collection is
crafted entirely from timber
offcuts and showcases his
breadth of skill. Exhibited
at this year’s Cape Town
Fu r n itu re We e k , i n
partnership with local
gallery Clout/SA, the Hart
Ruk furniture collection
included a curvaceous
four-poster bed, stool,
dining table and dining
chairs. From ZAR 8000,
David Krynauw Design

X
(AHEAD OF THE CURVE) JASMYN KRYNAUW

curiosity shop
FEATURE RODDY CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHS

Take in the best of global contemporary craft

and vintage design at this four-day pop-up event
Prepare to be amazed by the treasures you’ll unearth at Merchant & Found’s
Vintage Supermarket in London’s Soho this month. From 15-18 May, the stellar
online vintage furniture brand is taking over the Vinyl Factory, filling its 6,000sq ft
with pieces from makers like Tolix, Baumann and Esavian, adding in a programme
of live events and talks. A trove of wonder, not to be missed.

20 livingetc.com
 interview
X

scientific reality
The creations of Dutch designer Joris Laarman combine
science, tech and design in the most impressive way

t
echnology is our best bet for a
Clockwise, from
sustainable and smart future –
left: Bone chair;
that’s the motto of Joris Laarman, Joris Laarman;
3D-printed bridge
a globally renowned, award-winning in Amsterdam;
Dutch designer. His studio, comprising Maker table
coders, engineers and craftsmen, works
with artificial intelligence and digital
and robotic fabrication to create high-
concept projects that poetically merge
design and science. From furniture to
public bridges, Joris has stretched the
possibilities of technology to produce
that which is timeless and beautiful.

Your products – chairs, tables,

lounges and shelves – are
craftsmanship marvels. How do
you make such artistic pieces also
practical, approachable
and affordable? In our
work the storytelling comes first.
There are many others who are way
better at making practical pieces of
furniture. We like to try out new things mater ia ls. Dig it a l world. Materials are shipped to one end
and inspire the industry to take on these tools make it possible for of the planet to be produced, and shipped
new challenges and opportunities. But relatively small workshops to make things back to the other to be sold. Emerging
a chair isn’t a chair if you can’t sit on it, that only expensive factories could make technology can reduce that footprint.
unless it’s part of the narrative that it in industrial times. Besides 3D printing, We should move from the Anthropocene
shouldn’t be sittable. To me the use is we are now working a lot with augmented into the Symbiocene, where we can live
PHOTOGRAPHS (AMSTERDAM BRIDGE) THIJS WOLZAK

also one layer in the poem. reality. AR allows 3D designing in 3D in harmony with nature and technology.
space using your body and building
Your 3D - printed Amsterdam objects in teams using 3D holograms. What are you working on
FEATURE ADITI SHARMA MAHESHWARI

bridge, open for public use, truly currently? We are researching new
took digital fabrication to a higher How are AI and robotics paving objects that merge nature and culture,
level. What other boundary- the way to a more sustainable like a green-printer that irrigates vertical
pushing designs do you predict future in design? AI and digital walls so mosses can grow on them in
can be done with 3D printing? fabrication can be used to create smarter graphics, Symbio benches and fully
3D printing introduces a new language and more efficient forms as well as bio-based and biodegradable furniture
that is interesting to explore but also allowing for local production processes. using a revolutionary patented new resin.
allows for the faster production of more Many products in the industrial age X
a f fordable hou se s u si ng rec ycled have a footprint as large as the entire jorislaarman.com

22 livingetc.com
 material matters
X

surface layer
A new finish for worktops, walls and floors
has both luxury and eco credentials

The Ecotone range of surfaces from

Quartzforms, a brand specialising in (you
guessed it) slabs of quartz agglomerate,
is a n exciting move towa rds more
responsible design. Available in four
colours, the beautiful and finely veined
surfaces are made from resin derived from
biocompound and recycled glass. All are
designed to be a ‘transitional material’
between technical quartz and the even
more sustainable surfaces of the future.
The eco credentials extend to production,
too: wind power makes up 60% of the
energy needed to craft the material and all
water used in production is recycled.

26 livingetc.com
 e v e r y o n e ’s t a l k i n g a b o u t . . .
X

stranger things
Surrealism is having a resurgence in fashion and interiors – check out these
pieces inspired by the wonderful looks strutting down the SS24 catwalks

Mater
armchair by
Houtique, Soft Serve pendant
£2,865, 1stDibs 01 in Peach Sorbet,
£190, Crème Atelier
at Att Pynta

Indian
Summer
Mustique cone vase in
vase, £125, Clear Lilac
Jonathan Adler and Matt
Fluorescent
Yellow,
£410, Corsi
Design
FEATURE AMY NEASON PHOTOGRAPHS (KWK BY KAY KWOK) LIA
TOBY/BFC; (SCHIAPARELLI) ESTROP, BOTH VIA GETTY IMAGES

Kelly Behun leaf bowl on

Bright Yellow stand, £355, L’Objet
Candy Stripe
vase, £70, Runway looks
Hodge Pots doubled as live
surrealist art at
KWK by Kay Kwok

Schiaparelli
employed oversized
features and acute
Side table angles for its
with drawer, SS24 collection
£3,424.50,
Project 213A So’Home
Wiggle velvet
piped cushion
in Green, £18,
La Redoute

Melt coffee table in

Melting runner rug in Green, from walnut burl, £11,800,
£1,320, Henry Holland x Floor Story Marble Balloon

livingetc.com 27
 de sign re port
X

sky high
Harnessing natural light is a goal for every home – and the sophisticated
skylights seen today are using modern tech and design to ace that objective
FEATURE Keith Flanagan

a sk any architect to describe

their core objectives on a
recent projec t , a nd one
item almost guaranteed to make the
cut is bringing in more natural light.
even clerestory windows – that channel
light from above.
Compared to conventional windows,
skylights can filter light into the home
from new directions while creating a
‘As so much housing stock consists
of terraced or semi-detached houses,
relying solely on light from the front or
rear elevation is not sufficient to achieve
bright inviting spaces, therefore skylights
A nd while there a re ma ny ways to unique sense of openness throughout are often the only option to improve
harness the sun, many homeowners interiors, even increasing the amount levels of natural lighting,’ explains Ester
are turning their sights towards the of natural light your home receives Cor t i, co-fou nder a nd d i rector at
ceiling with statement skylights – or throughout the day. London’s Mitchell + Corti Architects.
Skylights are not new (you’ve heard
of the Pantheon), but the skylights we
see today are unlike those from decades
An oval skylight in
this project by Decus ago. Updated technology (like built in
creates an arresting shades) and sheer availability (like
central spotlight effect
better readymade products) are just a
handful of developments giving them rise.
‘Skylight systems have become more
affordable, and there are many companies
offering off-the-shelf solutions with
integrated blinds, electrical openings,
rain sensors, and so on,’ adds Ester. ‘As
building technology has advanced there’s
less fear that skylights will leak, which
perhaps has also increased popularity.’
Beyond bells and whistles, interest
in enhancing natural light can also be PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT) DAVE WHEELER; (RIGHT) PIERCE SCOURFIELD
traced to a renewed focus on wellness in
residential spaces, an effort to enhance
our mood and reduce stress by way of
natural elements. ‘I think it’s a greater
prioritisation of wellbeing at home, and a
better understanding of the benefits that
a naturally lit space can bring to our
quality of life that has fuelled this recent
interest,’ says Mike Shaw, director at
London’s Proctor & Shaw Architects.
And naturally, designers are flexing
the architectural feature to create truly
dramatic effects, like having a James
Turrell installed directly in your home. ‘I
think clients are seeing it be done in h

30 livingetc.com
 Advanced skylight
systems help to filter –
not just flood – light in
classic Victorian
extensions. Project by
Mitchell + Corti Architects
 de sign re port
X

really effective ways – which in turn creating a play of light and shadows path and create patterns with shadows.
makes them more amenable to taking throughout the day. In its Kensal Rise project, Mitchell +
such risks and allowing us more creative Taking shape in Sydney, Decus made Corti Architects installed zig-zagging
license,’ says Madeline Manolas, interior bold moves by integrating tiered oval wooden panels that create patterns of
designer and project lead at Decus. skylights into its ‘Monsieur G’ project, light from a long 7m pane running across
In design-forward projects, standard which appear like portals to the sky. the kitchen’s ceiling. ‘In this project the
rectangles and squares are often out ‘What is traditionally a very dark or oak fins serve a number of purposes; they
the window. The latest designs bring artificially lit space was opened up,’ offer some privacy and some shading as
form to function, designed with fun and explains Madeline, noting how these well as shadows that move across the
fascinating shapes, or installed with rounded skylights create a sense of room throughout the day,’ says Ester,
dramatic placements. openness in unexpected places like a noting how the panels also concealed
In its recent cabin project in Norway, stairwell and dressing room. silicone joints in the skylight and infused
Line Solgaa rd A rk itekter took the In addition to form, some architects the space with warm, natural materials.
skylight to another level, maximising flex the skylight’s strength by filtering Alternatively, when a proper skylight
the home’s square layout by capping its the light itself, rendering their skylight in isn’t feasible or desirable, architects
zinc roof with a central skylight shaped different types of glass or introducing sometimes reach for clerestory windows
like a pyramid; light pours into the home, decorative elements that alter the light’s – positioned up high, often along the
roofline – as a different way to channel
light from above. In a south London
extension aptly named Sky Lantern
‘Naturally lit spaces
can benefit our House, Proctor & Shaw A rchitects
wellbeing,’ says Mike introduced a radical double-height glazed
Shaw of London’s
Proctor & Shaw void to softly funnel northerly light
Architects, who into the living spaces through textured
created this space
cast glass. ‘Sometimes maintaining
privacy to overlooking neighbours is a
priority, and clerestory windows can
offer a great way to bring abundant
natural light into living spaces while
controlling views in and out,’ says Mike.
But no matter which route you take
in harnessing light from up high, there’s
one tip architects across the board
will tell you: consult a professional from
start to finish. Architects can introduce
PHOTOGRAPHS (LEFT) STÅLE ERIKSEN; (RIGHT) EINAR ASLAKSEN

you to entirely new opportunities from

t he de sig n ph a s e , f r om sh a p e t o
placement, and will help you plan for
maintenance strategies in the future.
‘Your architect can then help guide you
through the myriad complex technical
considerations at a later technical stage,
such as the challenges of achieving
good thermal performance, solar gain
mitigation, and so on,’ encourages Mike.
It’s no small addition to any residential
space, of course. But even a small skylight
will pay dividends in brightening and
uplifting your interior – the sky’s the limit.

32 livingetc.com
 A pyramid-shaped
skylight in a
Norwegian project
by Line Solgaard
Arkitekter, flooding
the cabin with light

STA N DA R D R E C TA N G L E S A N D S Q UA R E S A R E O F T E N O U T T H E
W I N D OW – T H E L AT E ST S KY L I G H TS B R I N G FO R M TO F U N C T I O N ,
D E S I G N E D W I T H F U N A N D FAS C I N AT I N G S H A P E S
X
 h e ro p i e c e
X

avant-garde
Mimi Shodeinde’s futuristic seating system is set to make waves –
here are some equally forward-thinking designs we’d pair it with

LOOK SHARP 5
London-based artist and designer
Mimi Shodeinde of Miminat Designs
has unveiled the Borris collection – a
10-piece capsule constructed from
components of tarnished aluminium
and Nero Marquina marble.
Borris sofa, price on request,
Miminat Designs

3
FEATURE RORY ROBERTSON

1 T WO TO N E 2 GO ROUND 3 S O BRIGHT 4 L AY E R U P 5 HANG ON

A black sofa needs That marble surface Nod to the futuristic vibe Throw some curves into Adding height to
warmth in the form of needs protecting, and with this self-powered the mix with this piece balance the low sofa, this
this organically shaped these eco-resin coasters luminaire. It stores energy inspired by rocky coat stand is made from
must-have vase. Twins are just the ticket. from the sun and turns it mountain peaks. Falesia 100% biodegradable
C vase, €494.10, Fish Lava coasters 02 in into beautiful light. Solar magazine rack, £180, material from local waste
Design by Gaetano Sandstone/Burnt Ochre, light, €1,695, Marjan van Christian Li Voi for Krill streams. bFRIENDS coat
Pesce at Corsi Design £25 for 2, Amanita Labs Aubel at Sunne Design at Artemest stand, £428, Bene

livingetc.com 35
 design icon
X

the innovator
Designer Ron Arad has always been ahead of his time –
and his latest work is as boundary-breaking as ever

g lobally revered for his daring

pushing-of-creative-boundaries
and continuous exploration
of materials, form, furniture and
beyond, Tel Aviv-born designer
Ron Arad has a decades-long history
of bla z i ng t r a i l s . K now n for h i s
collaborations with a bevy of leading
i nt e r n at i o n a l b r a n d s , h i s l at e s t
partnership with Moroso has resulted in
One Page, a chair that’s as mesmerising
as it is comfortable.

Why did this project pique your

interest? When Patrizia Moroso [the
brand’s art director] said that she could
make a chair’s shell with an incorporated
padded element, that was something new
so I got involved. I’m very curious about
creating new things – I have designed a The brand-new
One Page chair
lot of chairs – and to me there’s no point designed by Ron
FEATURE AMY MOOREA WONG PHOTOGRAPHS (ONE PAGE CHAIR) ALESSANDRO PADERNI

in creating something if it’s been done Arad for Moroso

before. When I’m developing objects, I

have a very easy way to know if I want printing/CNC machining a lot to sculpt
to carry on. I think ‘If I saw this in a marble, carve words in my handwriting
gallery, would I be jealous of it?’ If the and I created the world’s first 3D printed
answer is no, I drop it. book. But we have to remember that
technology is a tool, and we still need
Why might the One Page chair people who know the best thing to do
The D-Sofa, designed
enhance someone’s home life? with it. At the same time, I enjoy working by Ron in 1994, is
now on show at MoMA
The desig n of One Page is a n idea with African craftsmen. Salam, Patrizia
translated from a freehand sketch based Moroso’s husba nd, a nd I recently
around the body and comfort, which re-imagined some of my f urniture
doesn’t contradict it looking good. The designs from reclaimed oil drums in would make it or how it was going to be
chair’s form and function are very, very Senegal. It was amazing, a real joy. made – I don’t know where it’s going yet,
good friends. People will look nice sitting but it’s worth making. I’m also looking
on it and enjoy sitting on it. What ’s nex t for you? I’m very forward to an upcoming show in Paris
excited about a chair I’m developing called ‘Ron Arad and Jean Prouvé’. I’m
How do you integrate technology called Wave. It is made from one piece making a very special piece for it…
i n t o y o u r w o r k ? Usi ng ne w of layered wood veneers. The idea for it X
technologies is very exciting. I use 3D came from a doodle before I knew who ronarad.co.uk

livingetc.com 37
 material matters
X

organic outlook
This adaptable plaster finish takes its cues from the tried-and-tested
decorative techniques of old – but with a very modern twist

Lime plaster isn’t new, exactly – it dates

back to antiquity – but Armourcoat’s
clay lime iteration is. The material’s
earthy mix of unf ired clay, natural
hydraulic lime and crushed recycled
marble forms a genius plaster that
creates a matt stone-look finish. It’s
naturally low carbon, highly durable,
breathable a nd VOC-f ree, plus it ’s
incredibly versatile – A rmourcoat
recommends using the plaster to create
ombre colour fades, layered ‘rammed
earth’ finishes or graphic stencilled
patterns. Choose from two textured
finishes and 15 colours.
PHOTOGRAPH JONATHAN BANKS

livingetc.com 41
 Malene in
her studio
 d e s i g n p ro f i l e
X

blazing a trail
Perhaps you know her from her incredible ceramic wall mural or her activism – either
way, Malene Djenaba Barnett is a groundbreaker in the truest sense of the word
FEATURE Fleur Britten

e ven wallpaper, it turns out,

can have an agenda. The
American artist and activist
Malene Djenaba Barnett is talking to me
from her elegant Brooklyn townhouse,
traditions. She may already have degrees
in both fine arts and fashion illustration,
plus a master’s degree in ceramics, but
Malene views her education as ongoing.
Clay, she explains, is ‘a tool that we’ve
On her Jamaican research trip, Malene
honed in on the traditional Yabba pot,
which, she learnt, enslaved women were
permitted to make: ‘It allowed them
to cook and store food,’ she explains.
and behind her is a wall covered with her used for liberation since the 17th century’. ‘They were making them for survival.’
h
own, instantly recognisable design,
Mosa ic, created for the L A-based
interiors brand Lulu and Georgia. This
dynamic pattern with metallic accents
‘celebrates the legacy of Afro-Caribbean
women potters’, she explains.
Legacy-making is Malene’s mission
(well, one part of it) – not so much for
herself, but, more importantly, for her
many silenced ancestors. ‘I think about
what we’re going to leave behind, and how
we have to take agency over our narrative,’
she explains. ‘We can’t rely on anyone else
to tell our story.’ That’s why, she adds, ‘it’s
really important for me to tell these stories
and to inspire others to take a deeper dive
into their own family history and cultural
identity. All we’re doing as Black people
PHOTOGRAPH (PORTRAIT) COURTESY OF MALENE BARNETT; (MOM’S SMILE

is trying to get back to our source, without

influence from other people.’
Ma lene is not on ly ha r nessing
w a l lpa p er for t h i s pu r p o s e . T he
multidisciplinary artist also works with
GRANNY’S EYES II) COURTESY OF WEXLER GALLERY

clay, paper, glass and textiles (she has a new

rug collection coming out later this year).
Woven into all are the artistic and cultural
traditions of the Black diaspora, as well as
motifs from traditional African fabrics,
pottery and ceremonial dress. But this is no
surface-level referencing – Malene, 51, just
completed a 10-month, Fulbright grant-
funded research trip to Jamaica (her
father’s homeland; her mother hails from Mom’s Smile Granny’s Eyes II
print and woven artwork
the Caribbean island of St Vincent), where
she studied African-Jamaican ceramic

livingetc.com 43
 Malene’s ceramic
wall mural, The
Legacy Wall, in her
Brooklyn townhouse

Bringing light to these chapters of Black w ith a s ma ny Black people in the of optimising members’ visibility within
history is core to her mission and to her art diaspora as possible.’ the industry. ‘There’s a lot more work to be
(her ceramic pots, inspired by her studies, But there’s more to her mission. She done,’ Malene says, ‘but no matter what’s
are available to buy at Wexler Gallery in also sees herself as a community-builder going on in the industry, our members
New York City and Philadelphia). and advocate for Black designers. In 2018 get to show up here unapologetically, in a
There are more trips in the offing: Malene founded the Black Artists + safe space, and connect and support each

PHOTOGRAPHS (THE LEGACY WALL) PRATYA JANKONG; (POTS) COURTESY OF WEXLER GALLERY
‘My goal is to go around the entire Designers Guild (BADG, pronounced other. It’s become our family.’
Caribbean region, interview those still ‘badge’), a non-profit organisation that It may come as no surprise that Malene
working in those traditions and create aims to unite the Black design world. It’s is fearless around calling out the white
an accessible archive.’ She’s keen to now a community of more than 100 gatekeepers of design. ‘I make no apology
research beyond clay and the Caribbean, international architects, designers and about it,’ she says. ‘I’m willing to speak up in
though. ‘I’m interested in connecting artists who get to enjoy on- and offline whatever situation.’ That might be with a
meet-ups, an annual awards ceremony and, strident takedown on Instagram of a brand
of course, Malene’s tireless cheerleading that’s overlooked the need for diversity, or
and support. And it’s also a directory of a face-to-face challenge of those ‘who
Black design talent, with the purpose need to take a step back and analyse their
thinking around the [Black] community.’
Does she thin k that things a re
improving for designers of colour? ‘2020
was the year when we believed that people
woke up,’ she says, referencing the time
when George Floyd’s death sparked
Black Lives Matter protests globally.
‘Though now they’re going back to sleep.
But we don’t have that luxury to turn off
Awaya and Yabba I who we are and close the door.’
terracotta pots, available
to buy at Wexler Gallery X
malenebarnett.com; badguild.info

44 livingetc.com
 g a rd e n re p o r t
X

rooting for change

The concept of the ‘environmentally healthy’ garden is something we should
all be embracing – and top designers have the intel on how to get it right
FEATURE Fleur Britten
 i
f there was an award for a garden comprises the upper canopy, the scrub/
that ’s g iven the most back to shrub layer and at ground-level, a layer of
nature, Knepp Castle’s walled perennials and grasses. ‘Even in only
garden in West Sussex would be a likely 4x4m of space, you could have a lovely
contender. ‘We took out the lawns, put in tree or two, a bush and some meadow
layers of sand, limestone and crushed flowers,’ she explains. The rule of thirds
c o n c r e t e f r o m d e m ol i s h e d f a r m creates a three-dimensional mosaic,
buildings, created wet hollows, sunny t hu s prov id i ng nat u re w it h t he
banks and sandy areas, and unleashed a complexity it thrives on, she explains,
vast plant genome with 2,000 different ‘with lots of navigational routes, food
ta xa,’ ex plains the award-w inning opportunities and places to lay eggs’.
landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith.
Three years later, the 1.5-acre garden’s For the best results, also consider the
invertebrate biodiversity had increased hard landscaping – paving, walls, steps
by 35%. ‘It’s fascinating to see,’ says Tom. and so on. ‘The planting we can change,
but the bone structure will be there for
The big new concept in gardening is years,’ says Tomoko. Optimise good h
about prioritising nature. The London-
b a s e d g a r d e n d e s i g n e r To m o k o
Kawauchi at Charlotte Rowe Garden
D e s i g n s a y s i t ’s a b o u t c r e a t i n g A gravel garden, seen
here in a Charlotte
‘environmentally healthy gardens’ – ie, Rowe project, is a
good choice for
those that are ‘environmentally friendly
hard landscaping
to the core’, she explains. To be clear, this
PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE) TAMMY MARLAR; (RIGHT) CHARLOTTE ROWE

is not rewilding – leaving nature to its

own devices – this is about planting and
landscaping in nature’s best interests.

W hat ’s key, adds Tom, is ‘v iew ing

everything in your garden as a potential
h a bit at – it ’s a b out m a x i m i si ng
biodiversity. It must have wet bits, dry
bits, shady bits, sunny bits – you can’t do
that in a flat garden with a lawn.’

According to landscape designer Lulu

Urquhar t, w inner of R HS Chelsea
F l o w e r S h o w 2 0 2 2 ’s t o p p r i z e ,
Lulu Urquhart’s rule it ’s helpf u l to remember nat u re’s
of thirds provides the r u le of t h i r d s w hen pla n n i ng a n
complexity needed for
a biodiverse garden environmentally healthy garden. This

livingetc.com 47
 Charlotte Rowe’s The walled
own urban garden garden at Knepp
balances hard Castle is planted
landscaping into a base of
with planting of sand, limestone
various heights and crushed
concrete

d ra inage by using nat ura l, porous adds Tom: ‘More plants die from our wet chance of survival. Tomoko is a fan of
materials (sand, limestone, lime mortar, winters than our summer droughts’ – so gravel gardens, because they encourage
local and natural stone). And, adds Lulu: consider improving a garden’s drainage free drainage, plus you can use crushed
‘You could build hibernacula [animal if possible. Solutions include ra in building waste, keeping it out of landfill.
shelters] into the walls or add wood or ga rdens, sa nd ga rdens a nd g ravel
stone piles for safe breeding grounds for gardens. A rain garden entails digging a Environmentally healthy gardens are
insects and amphibians.’ At Knepp, Tom shallow, sloping ditch, so that any excess inevitably messier, explains Lulu. ‘We
created ‘dirty paths’ – a place, he says, water is naturally directed here, thus need to let go of our need for control,
‘for plants to grow’. Made with a mix of avoiding flooding. To create the sand to pick, pluck and sor t. We’re now

PHOTOGRAPHS (ABOVE LEFT) CHARLOTTE ROWE; (ABOVE RIGHT) KAREN FINLEY

crushed limestone and soil, these are an gardens at Knepp, Tom planted into a top entering a more ecological relationship
ideal habitat for self-seeding herbs such layer of sand. ‘The plants produce a vast with our gardens and being more the
as creeping thyme, calamint and fennel. root system in response to low nutrients witness than the do-er. There’s such a
and good drainage’ – allowing a better joy in seeing things unfurl.’
Conveniently, a n env ironmentally
hea lt hy ga rden doesn’t need X
well-drained, rich soil. ‘Some of the most
C R E AT E A N AT U R E - F R I E N D LY G A R D E N
exciting things I’ve grown have been Five things you can do to make your outdoor space environmentally healthy
on very nutrient-poor soils,’ explains
Tom. ‘With a rich soil, you don’t get lots
of different flowers, you get one or two.’
1 REWILD THE LAWN A large, bright
green, closely clipped lawn in a dry
summer is not ecologically sound, or a
Resist introducing pattern (on tiles, for
example), which will date quickly.

However, he adds: ‘Infertile soils are less

productive, so the effect is slower.’
good look – especially if it’s artificial grass.
4 OPT FOR BARE-ROOT PLANTS A
wise way to avoid inadvertently buying

2 LAY LESS PAVING When doing the

hard landscaping, try to minimise the
amount of concrete and avoid porcelain
peat, bare-root plants are also more
economical, use less plastic and have a
much lighter carbon footprint than
It is also worth investing in climate- – neither are particularly porous. Opt container-grown plants.
proof plants that are resilient to drought instead for natural, permeable stone.
and waterlogging (Tomoko recommends
salvias and alchemilla mollis). However, 3 AVOID TRENDS Aim for a timeless
look, with both plants and hardware.
5 CONSIDER A NATURAL POND The
local animals will love it and it will
enhance your garden’s diversity.

48 livingetc.com
 material matters
X

glowing c olour
Plant-based pigments are growing in the design world – and one studio’s
pioneering process is paving the way for sustainably dyed aluminium

Rather than use pigments derived

from petroleum to add colour to
aluminium – a process that’s bad
news for the environment – the team
at Dutch design studio Loop Loop
think they’ve made a breakthrough
with Local Colours, a project that uses
an anodising process with bio-based
solutions to colour the metal. So far,
they’ve created four hues using dye
from flowers and roots they’ve grown
themselves – but the hope is that in the
near future the processes and recipes
will be made available for use in
small-scale production. The studio’s
Fade chandelier is one of the first
products to be given the treatment.

livingetc.com 51
 story time
In a new feature, designers set the tone for how we’ll be decorating. And as Lee Broom
tells our editor Pip Rich, pieces that have a narrative will positively affect your mood

Lee Broom
with his new
Mythos lights
LEE BROOM In design right now, people feel then you’ll create a richer place to live.
are becoming more and more attuned to Often, you might have someone over and
how the things around them affect how they be able to tell them a story about what’s
behave, their mood and their mental health. hanging on your wall, but not about the
PIP RICH I agree. All any conversation dining chair they’ll be sat on for three hours.
about decor focuses on now is how a space I think design can have that narrative too. The Solstice
lights from
will make the people who experience it PR I like the idea of curation of what’s in Lee’s new
feel – it’s much less about how it looks. your home the way you might curate what’s Alchemist
collection
This happened right after 2020, and was on the wall. One of my favourite pieces of inspired by
a direct result of what happened that year. yours is the Orion light – would you say that the wonder of
Stonehenge
LB Right – people want peace and joy was designed from an emotional place?
and are so much savvier about how the LB Absolutely. In fact, you remember
things around them can influence them when we went on holiday together to
in this way. When I started 15 years ago France [in 2011]? The Orion came
design was about functionality and the about because we were sat outside
idea of emotions in interiors seemed one evening staring at the sky and I
less important, almost frowned upon. But was thinking about the constellations
The Orion lights
if a product is designed from an emotional and the clarity of mind you get when Lee designed after
being inspired by
place then that’s what gives it beauty, you look at something in awe. The the constellations
calm, joy or whatever you’re looking for. Orion can be hung like a constellation
If you know a maker’s blood, sweat and a nd creates a lu m i nescence, a idea of escapism into something bigger
tears have been poured into a piece then moment of wonder in the same way. than ourselves, which is what Alchemist is
that becomes subconsciously apparent. PR I never knew that! That the light all about, the magical folklore of being
It’s like you’re buying a piece of art. now hanging above my kitchen island able to transmute a base metal into gold.
PR I’d not thought of it that way. Often, – that does give me a sense of awe – Working with brushed brass I wanted
people will spend a lot of time talking to came from that trip. Wow! OK, tell me to create something truly beautiful and,
the artist or discovering the back story about your new Alchemist collection – yes, the Solstice light is inspired by the
of some work they’ll hang on their wall, what emotion has gone into that? shapes of Stonehenge.
but actually you’re saying that furniture LB Well actually you’re involved in that PR I didn’t know that either! That origin
can have that same richness? one too! We were driving back from your story has really tickled me. Now when I
LB Absolutely. Not that design needs to house and past Stonehenge and I decided see the Solstice light I’ll get an extra layer
be expensive to give you an emotional to stop and take a closer look. I wasn’t of joy from it.
response. It could be something passed expecting that feeling of awe and history LB You know, joy wasn’t my objective
down through the family or bought in a and prehistoric design that comes from when I started out in design but if you can
flea market, but if you pay attention to how the stones, landscapes, positioning and create pieces that bring emotion to life then
anything you put in your home makes you its spiritual connotations. It gave me the that gives your work a sense of meaning.

THREE’S A TREND 2
Designers whose work tells a story

1 S EBASTIAN and Nigerian heritage and

COX it gives her pieces a feeling
‘He spends hours – days! of magic,’ says Pip.
weeks! – sourcing the wood WEWE cushion Blue, Aburi
and thinking about how collection by Eva Sonaike
to get the best from it,’
says Pip. ‘That shines 3 FAYE
through in all his work.’ TOOGOO D
Underwood mirror by ‘There is an arresting
Sebastian Cox emotion in all of Faye’s
pieces,’ says Lee. ‘A true
1
2 E VA sense of narrative.’
SO NAI K E 015 Peace outdoor
‘Much of her work is informed lounge chair by Toogood
by a blend of her European for Vaarnii 3

livingetc.com 53
 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

best in show
M A K E S U R E TO V I S I T T H E M O R O S O S H O W R O O M D U R I N G C L E R K E N W E L L
D E S I G N W E E K – I T ’ S A H AV E N O F M O O D - B O O S T I N G D E C O R

The flagship Moroso showroom in Clerkenwell is a joy

to visit at any time of year. The home of zeitgeist-forming,
cutting-edge furniture, it’s a shining example of how soul
enriching good design can be. But it becomes a must-visit
during Clerkenwell Design Week – which this year runs
from 21-23 May – as all of the displays will be refreshed
with new pieces just launched in Milan and you’ll get to
be the first in the UK to see them up close.
A hero piece will be the brand-new One Page chair by
Ron Arad (more of which on page 37). Designed so you
feel good and look good while sitting in it, its form needs
to be seen – and tried out – to be fully comprehended.
And the Mangiafuoco coffee tables by Zanellato/Bortotto
will also be fresh from Milan, almost glowing with their
luxe rich red and blue surfaces. They’ll be complemented
by design classics Moroso has launched in the last few
years, like the Gogan table, Pacific sofa and Ruff chair
(a former Livingetc cover star), all designed by the
legendary Patricia Urquiola, and the Do-Lo-Rez sofa

PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE) ALESSANDRO PADERNI

by Ron Arad – seating that makes a bold statement.
W hat Moroso has always done so well is put the
wonderment into design, allowing imaginations to soar
and the boundaries of creativity to be stretched. A visit to
the showroom will be a highlight of Clerkenwell Design
Week, reminding you of how inspiring furniture can be
and giving you a fresh appreciation for the joy of good decor.

ALL THE DETAILS

The Gogan table alongside Moroso, 7 - 15 Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4SP; moroso.it
the Gogan sofa and Ruff
chairs, all by Patricia
Urquiola for Moroso

G R E AT E S T H I T S

The Do-Lo-Rez sofa by Ron Arad for Moroso

Mangiafuoco
coffee table by
Zanellato/Bortotto
for Moroso

The Puff-D chair by Diesel

Living with Moroso

The Pacific sofa by Patricia Urquiola for Moroso

54 livingetc.com
 D R E A M WO R L D
Rich woods are well and truly the stars of
bespoke carpentry, if the designer projects
we’ve been seeing are anything to go by.
From walnut to mahogany, the most sought-
after types are intense, red-toned and
romantic – and, as this scheme shows, the
perfect foil to a dreamy mid-tone blue. It’s a
mid-century palette brought bang up to date.
Turn to page 78 to see more of this bold and
tactile LA home – it’s a true expression of
modern Californian style.
PHOTOGRAPH MELLON STUDIO

T H E Y SAY T R AV E L W I D EN S YO U R H O R IZO N S – A N D F R O M M A J O R C A TO
L A , T H I S M O N T H ’ S H O M E S W I L L C ERTA I N LY O P E N YO U U P TO N E W I D E A S

livingetc.com 55
HOUSES

TECHNICOLOUR
DREAM
Vivid saturated tones give this elegant
San Francisco home an alluring fun side

PHOTOGRAPHY Nicole Franzen

STYLING Rosy Fridman
X

WORDS Karine Monié

LIVING ROOM
‘Classical becomes artful and
full of life with the addition of
a ceiling mural by a local artist
that introduces movement,
sensuality and some drama,’
says designer Susan.
Ceiling mural by Caroline
Lizarraga. Artwork by Melissa
Herrington. Sofas, Pierre
Augustin Rose. Chandelier,
Apparatus. Mirror; floor lamp,
Sabine Marcelis. Custom
coffee tables, Homework.
Rug, Fayette Studio. Sconce,
Giopato & Coombes

56 livingetc.com
livingetc.com 57
HOUSES

When the ow ners of this classic, Edwardian-style, San

Fran house were first referred to Susan and Ben Work —
the co-founders of architectural design studio Homework
– they didn’t yet know that they were about to embark on a choice of aqua and coral touches subtly echoes the presence of
two-year journey to completely transform the recently purchased the Pacific Ocean seen in views from the house.
property into their dream home. The family – a couple, their two Curated with an abundance of handcrafted pieces that are
children, plus puppy – was new to home ownership and it was ‘special, timeless and carefully selected’, according to Susan, the
their first experience of working with a design team, so they home now showcases many sculptural treasures and art pieces of
initially dipped their toes in the water with an update of the which the designers are particularly proud. In the main living
breakfast room and cloakroom. room, a hand-painted ceiling mural by
Very quickly, however, that project Caroline Lizarraga; a custom wool and
became a much larger renovation, the dow n load silk rug, and a bronze mirror foster a
encompassing, among other changes, creative vibe that is unexpected, yet
THE DESIGNERS
the complete transformation of the Susan and Ben Work, co-founders of San visually calming. Teamed with the
property’s top level to host a primary Francisco-based architectural design studio travertine fireplace and sculptural
su ite that of fers breatht a k i ng Homework. They took on this project for a sofas in tactile mohair, the space is both
pa nora m ic v iews. ‘ We love to be couple of former New Yorkers who live here with refined and inviting. In the dining
challenged!’ says Susan who, with her their two school-aged kids and new puppy. room, geomet r ic-shaped Pa mela
team, had to completely rework the Jorden paintings visually respond to
spaces, identifying a proper function THE PROPERTY the faceted rug to make for a space that
for each, before introducing some Built in 1915, the three-storey Edwardian-style is modernist and elegant.
home is perched on a hillside in a historic
colour and art into what she describes Up s t a i r s , a nav y hemp f ibre
neighbourhood of San Francisco offering
as previously ‘classic white volumes’. wallpaper from Korea — which evokes
sweeping views of the bay and the Golden Gate
Perched on a hill in the resplendent the depths of the sea — was chosen for
Bridge. Full of classic period details, on the
enclave of Pacific Heights, the house, the relaxing main bedroom, while the
ground floor is the breakfast room, cloakroom,
which was built in 1915, already had kitchen, formal living room and dining room. media room inv ites the family to
plenty of character thanks to its classic The second level is the kids’ floor, with four hunker down on the generous blue
period details. The bones were there, bedrooms and two bathrooms. The third floor velvet sectional sofa, positioned in
but the property lacked some magic. comprises the main suite, the media room front of a vivid coral-hued shelving
Susan and Ben Work naturally decided and additional cloakroom. wall. It’s an unexpected pairing that
to preserve the traditional features makes for a striking statement.
while infusing them with a contemporary twist. ‘Such a spacious home off a major thoroughfare in San
Throughout the entire project, boldness was something the Francisco provided a unique opportunity to meet the challenge of
homeowners never shied away from, which made things designing fun interior spaces for a family that, in today’s world,
even more exciting for the Homework team. When the couple occupies every room while working or playing at home,’ says Ben.
bought it, the house had a clean, neutral look, so Susan and Ben The result is a warm, family-friendly space successfully fused
strove to give it much more personality — in particular through with a very grown-up sense of elegance, resulting in a home that
hits of unexpected saturated colour. ‘We overlaid a technicolour truly embodies the best of all worlds.
palette inspired by the expansive views of the San Francisco Bay X
and Golden Gate Bridge,’ explains Susan. So, for example, the homework.design

58 livingetc.com
K I TC H E N
The hand-painted rice
paper wallcovering
is the kind of bold
decorative touch that
brings the magic to
this period home.
Wallcovering,
Porter Teleo
60 livingetc.com
 HOUSES

DINING ROOM
The sculptural pieces in here
have a modernist aesthetic.
‘The geometric paintings
speak to the faceted rug
beautifully,’ says Susan.
Artwork by Pamela Jorden,
Romer Young Gallery.
Custom table, Homework.
Chairs, Maxalto. Mirror, Os &
Oos. Sconces, Allied Maker.
Sideboard, Wüd Furniture.
Chandelier, Jason Miller for
Roll & Hill. Rug, Karim
Rashid for Erik Lindström

livingetc.com 61
 MEDIA ROOM
‘We wanted a place for
the family to convene
together and spend
cosy nights in watching
movies,’ says Susan.
Sectional sofa, Mario
Marenco for Arflex.
Coffee tables, Gubi.
Mirror, Fernando
Mastrangelo. Custom
storage, Homework

62 livingetc.com
 HOUSES

livingetc.com 63
 T H E H O M E I S F U L L O F A R T F U L , F U N A N D SAT U R AT E D P O P S S O, BY
CO N T R AST, W E WA N T E D TO C R E AT E A CO SY, M O N O C H R O M AT I C ,
DA R K , LU S C I O U S R O O M CO N D U C I V E TO D E E P R E ST A N D R E L AXAT I O N
X

64 livingetc.com
 HOUSES

MAIN
BEDROOM
‘Though stately, the house
lacked a proper primary
suite. We transformed the
top floor into a luxurious
bedroom with bathroom and
walk-in closet,’ says Susan.
Korean hemp cloth
wallpaper, Gregorius Pineo.
Custom bed, Homework;
covered in cotton velvet,
Pierre Frey. Bed linen,
Sferra. Mongolian cashmere
rug, Stark. Bedside table,
DeMuro Das. Lamps, Lisette
Rützou at Galerie Philia.
Hand-painted fireplace by
Caroline Lizarraga

livingetc.com 65
HOUSES

C LOA K R O O M
‘We usually always try to
go for maximal impact in
a small space. Here, we
clad the walls in the most
sultry bronze wallpaper
and juxtaposed it with an
electric-blue concrete
sink and a mirrored
sconce to top it off,’
says Susan
Wallpaper, Calico.
Custom sink, Homework.
Loo and tap, both
Watermark. Wall sconce,
Rosie Li. Mirror,
Mirrors Collective

66 livingetc.com
HOUSES

SPANISH
REVIVAL
The design of this restored 1900 Majorcan townhouse
cleverly disguises all the mod cons so history prevails
K I TC H E N
‘We tried to find the balance
PHOTOGRAPHY Ursula Armstrong between a working space
X

WORDS Fleur Britten and nice furniture, so we

made some conscious
choices to keep it as beautiful
as possible,’ says interior
designer Christoffer.
Bespoke stained-oak
cabinetry with travertine
worktop, Durietz Design &
Development and Cocinart;
similar kitchen, Naked
Kitchens; similar travertine,
Cullifords. Chopping
boards and crockery, Zara
Home. Antique vase, locally
sourced; try Vinterior.
Flooring, original to the
house; try LASSCO

DINING AREA
‘We’ve always liked big
round tables as they’re a
sociable way to eat,’ says
Christoffer. ‘We had this
one made to work with
the chairs.’ The original
marble water fountain has
been converted to supply
filtered water.
J39 dining chairs, Børge
Mogensen at Fredericia.
Custom oak table, Durietz
Design & Development.
Pendant light, Etsy. Antique
painting and vase, locally
sourced; for similar, try
Vinterior. Try Home Barn
for similar candlesticks

68 livingetc.com
70 livingetc.com
 HOUSES

LIVING AREA
‘Of the two living spaces, this
one is a bit more formal – for
having a drink with guests
around the huge original
fireplace,’ says Christoffer.
Velvet daybed and shaggy
Leo rug, both Dusty Deco.
Safari lounge chairs, Kaare
Klint for Carl Hansen & Søn.
Painting by Josephine Du
Rietz. Custom red travertine
coffee table, Durietz Design
& Development. Covent
three-seat sofa, New
Works at Skandium

livingetc.com 71
F I R S T- F LO O R
LIVING ROOM
The bespoke pieces, like
this fireplace, all reflect
the history of the house
so fit in beautifully.
Gogan lounge chairs,
Patricia Urquiola at Moroso.
Custom marble coffee
tables; Cipollino marble
fireplace, all Durietz Design
& Development. Shaggy
Labyrinth rug, Dusty
Deco. Sculpture by
Josephine Du Rietz
 HOUSES

the dow n load

THE DESIGNERS
Swedish husband-and-wife team Christoffer
and Josephine Du Rietz of architecture and
interior design company Durietz Design &
Development. They moved to Majorca in 2016
and specialise in renovating historic houses,
transforming them into fully furnished,
design-led homes for sale.
he design duo Christoffer and Josephine Du Rietz
aren’t going to pretend that the sympathetic modernisation of THE PROPERTY
this grand, 124-year-old townhouse was easy. ‘It took three- A four-storey townhouse built in 1900, sited
and-a-half years,’ says Josephine. But, she adds, that’s about just off the town square in Sóller. The house
average for their passion projects. ‘Of course we have clients with has the utilities in the basement, an open-plan
super-modern houses, but we prefer these old properties with kitchen/dining/living room and home office
high ceilings, beautiful stucco, and so much soul and character on the ground floor, a second living room,
– that’s what gets us going.’ two bedrooms and en suites on the first
Along with the house’s original features, such as its majestic floor, and three bedrooms and en suites

spiral staircase, chiselled stone facade and stone floor tiles, they on the second floor.

also found an interior untouched since the 1960s. Prior to their

purchase, the house had been inhabited by an old woman, who
had adapted the lower two floors to spare her the climb upwards,
even building a bathroom into the staircase. a really nice light coming in.’ Indeed that abundant Majorcan
The Du Rietzes worked hard to honour the original style and light enabled the couple to ‘go darker and more colourful’ with
f loor plan – ‘working as traditionally as possible,’ explains their chosen palette, says Christoffer. They chose a ‘warm red
Christoffer. The original windows, shutters and doors were thread’ to run throughout the house so that, explains Josephine,
restored where they could be, chopping out parts that had ‘everything goes; so the different floors meet each other’. To add
rotted. ‘We tried to conserve all the good features from 100 interest, they decided to use different coloured fabrics – yellows,
years ago,’ explains Josephine. ‘The materials back then were creams, beiges – for the beds, curtains and upholstery. ‘We
generally very good quality.’ wanted to achieve a sense of harmony throughout,’ says
‘But we’ve also adapted it to modern living,’ adds Christoffer. Josephine. ‘None of the pieces are like, “Here I am! I’m standing
‘A lot of work has gone into hiding all that.’ So, there’s now air-con out” – but all stand out in their own way.’
in every room; underfloor heating on the ground floor (for which Similarly, the custom joinery throughout the house – the
they dug out the basement, so as not to change the level of the floor kitchen cabinetry, bathroom units, wardrobes and bedside tables
above and face disrupting the original staircase and windows), – all feature the same timeless detailing and dark-stained oak.
and even a new elevator (the house is some 30 metres tall), ‘They were all made by different craftsmen – a resource that is
concealed ‘in a corner where it didn’t destroy the house’. abundant on the island – but everything had the same thread, so
Plus they opened up the kitchen, previously a small room it’s a special feature for the house,’ says Christoffer. The overall
to be used by the household staff. ‘Nowadays people want effect, he adds, is ‘a soothing feeling when you walk in’. Plus, it
an open kitchen where they can hang out with friends,’ hopefully future-proofs the house, as he explains: ‘We hope that
explains Christoffer. What was originally a floor full of dingy in five years, or even 20 years, people will still think, “It’s really
rooms is now one big, light-filled space. ‘Often the problem with nice,” rather than “It’s so 2024.”’
townhouses is that they’re wedged in between two other houses X
so the middle gets very dark, but since we opened it all up there’s durietzdesign.com

livingetc.com 73
HOUSES

ENTRANCE
‘There is such a lovely light
coming from the skylight
30 metres above that we
wanted to put something
here – the marble table –
that emphasises that light,’
says Christoffer.
Staircase and terrazzo
tiles, original to the house;
for similar, try LASSCO.
Antique wooden table base
with bespoke Binissalem
marble tabletop; try
Vinterior for similar. Vase,
Zara Home; painted by
Josephine Du Rietz

74 livingetc.com
EN SUITE
‘Initially we thought we’d
have the same marble in
all the bathrooms, but we
found so many nice ones
we thought that would be
boring,’ says Christoffer.
Custom travertine bath
cladding, Durietz Design &
Development; for similar
travertine, try Cullifords.
Vero bathtub, Duravit.
Brushed copper taps, Vola.
Earth Pearl gloss wall tiles,
Cerámica Ribesalbes
HOUSES

WE TRY TO PRESERVE THE SOUL OF A HOUSE –

THAT’S WHAT GIVES A PLACE A HOMELY F E E L I N G
X

BEDROOM
‘The walls are a warm
beige – it was difficult to find
a tone that is not too cold,
not too warm; not too
yellow, not too green,’
says Josephine. ‘We
went through a million
paint samples.’
Custom paint, NCS.
Antique table and chair,
locally sourced; for similar,
try Selling Antiques.
Curtains in linen fabric,
Yutes. Antique painting,
locally sourced; similar,
Vinterior. Antique vessel
and candlestick, locally
sourced; similar, Etsy

76 livingetc.com
 BEDROOM
‘Bedrooms should always
be soft,’ says Christoffer.
‘We didn’t want to cover
the floors with carpets
or rugs, so we introduced
other fabrics with the
headboard and curtains
to soften everything.’
Custom headboard and
stained-oak bedside table,
both Durietz Design &
Development. Artwork by
Josephine Du Rietz.
Handmade ceramic bedside
lamps, Marina Bonnin x
Durietz Design &
Development. Similar linen
bed linen, Piglet in Bed
 LA CONFIDENT
Assured and bold decorating is found in every corner of this
contemporary Los Angeles pad that is the epitome of cool

PHOTOGRAPHY Mellon Studio

STYLING Kara Perlis
X

WORDS Emma J Page

78 livingetc.com
 HOUSES

OUTDOOR
DINING AREA
A pair of generous
pendants echo the curved
silhouette of the wall-hung
outdoor planter. ‘We chose
charcoal tones to echo
the door frames and the
moodier elements of the
wallpaper within,’ says
interior designer Jen.
Table, Terrain. Sebastian
Herkner chairs, 1stDibs

POOL
The garden is delineated
into separate zones for
lounging, dining and
poolside relaxation.
‘The architects, Marmol
Radziner, are known for
blending architecture
with its environment,’
explains Jen. ‘We played
to that by creating
year-round settings.’
Outdoor rattan rocking
chairs, Anthropologie.
Outdoor lounge sofa and
chair, both Crate & Barrel
LIVING ROOM
‘This vast wall needed
something dramatic to
anchor the space,’ says Jen.
‘Though the leaf wallpaper
references the outside world,
I also wanted it be cocooning
and provide a wow moment.’
Botany 2 wall mural,
Walnut Wallpaper. Tacchini
three-seater sofa, DKMR
Projects. Pedestal coffee
tables in black marble,
Casa Quieta. Custom army
surplus floor cushions, You
the Brave. Lana armchair,
Agnes Studio. Signal globe
light, Workstead. Vintage
Moroccan rug, Lolan Rugs
 HOUSES

the dow n load

THE DESIGNER
Interior designer Jen Samson renovated this
home for a couple in their mid-thirties.

THE PROPERTY
A new build in Los Angeles by contemporary
architecture firm Marmol Radziner. The ground
floor has an entrance hall, sunken living room,
media room, open-plan kitchen-diner, study
nook and cloakroom. Upstairs there are five
bedrooms and four bathrooms.

alk into this Mar Vista new build and the ‘Where we had to work a little harder was with the rug in the
last thing you’d expect to encounter is a 1970s-style sunken sunken den with its bold magenta, teal and ochre elements. They
living room with an overscaled banana leaf wallpaper or a needed a little convincing and wanted to live with it for a few days.’
Moroccan rug in a very bold magenta colourway. But these The banana leaf wallpaper, part of Jen’s strategy to add in
striking interiors are owned by a well-travelled couple with an ‘selective but show-shopping patterns’, proved the game-changer,
artistic eye, keen to take an unconventional approach to their ultimately initiating a host of brave design decisions. ‘It works
home’s clean lines. The house was built in 2017 by Californian because that immensely tall space needed something moody
a rchitect u re f irm Ma rmol Radziner, renow ned for its and dramatic to anchor it,’ she says. ‘A vast white wall wouldn’t
uncompromisingly clean-lined approach, and, according to have lent the desired gravitas. But at the same time, the cocooning
interior designer Jen Samson, it was, ‘the ultimate modern pattern nods to the lushly planted garden beyond. I adore the
slate for us to layer with a bold palette and eclectic design’. visceral feeling it evokes.’
The challenge was marrying the distinctive tastes of this Throughout, polished cement flooring and streamlined
couple – one a British entrepreneur with a home in London, the interior architecture is softened by rich textures, vintage pieces
other an actress and artist with a home in nearby Venice Beach. and references to the natural world. The couple’s love of travel is
‘They wanted a place that created intrigue and delivered wow referenced far and wide – a living room armchair is covered in
moments,’ says Jen, known for her global-inspired, fashion- wool from Guatemala, a favourite chair in the bedroom is a 1960s
forward interiors. ‘He likes antiques and collectibles but favours Swedish design classic.
a more graphic approach; she is originally from the South and her True to its LA setting, this is a home that chimes with its
sensibility is a little more free-spirited and boho.’ The solution environment, with relaxed, largely open-plan spaces leading
was to play to the building’s architecture with fuss-free floating directly onto the terrace and a pool and garden beyond. ‘Working
walnut storage, natural stone and sculptural pieces, while on these interiors reminded me that without risk there is no
softening it with plenty of rounded silhouettes, from warm reward,’ muses Jen. ‘In work and in life in general, I always quote
globe lighting to relaxed floor cushions. Coco Chanel’s advice: “Don’t be like the rest of them, darling.”
The meeting point, both literally and metaphorically, was That’s the approach we took here and it’s paid off in spades.’ Bold
Morocco, where the couple fell in love and where they also own a and unexpected, this might just be the ultimate expression of
boutique hotel. ‘They feel very at home with Moorish interiors, so modern Californian design.
we knew that would be integral right from the start,’ says Jen, who X
added a tactile, deep-pile vintage Moroccan rug to the entryway. jensamsondesign.com

livingetc.com 81
 S T U DY N O O K
This bespoke niche was
designed by Jen. ‘It’s a
handy work space that’s
discreet but remains centre
of the action,’ she says.
Ancient Medicine 17
photograph (at back)
by Brian Merriam, Tappan
Collective. Farol table lamp;
Rhodes upholstered green
velvet chair, both CB2
 HOUSES

DINING AREA MEDIA ROOM

‘The beauty is in the Polished concrete flooring
simplicity,’ says Jen. ‘We is warmed by bespoke oak
W E I N T R O D U C E D F L AVO U R
chose warm wood finishes in cabinetry and plenty of
the kitchen to frame the textures, from linen and
A N D CO LO U R T H R O U G H
views, complemented by cotton to marble. ‘We also
design classics, including chose strong, sculptural
G LO BA L D E S I G N P I E C E S T H AT
the 1980s Torstein Nilsen shapes that could stand
dining table.’ up to the room’s strong
R E F L E C T T H E CO U P L E ’ S LOV E
architectural lines,’ says Jen.
Volta high bar stools, O F T R AV E L – E V E RY FO U N D
Dowel Jones. O’Branch V Inverness chair, Lawson-
chandelier, Reduxr. Torsten Fenning. Black marble P I E C E T E L L S A STO RY
Nielsen bentwood and glass cocktail table, Casa Mineral
dining table, Chairish. Jones at 1stDibs. Custom Bauhaus X
dining chairs in iron and rug, Beni Rugs. Green Road
leather, Barnaby Lane artwork by Katie Burdon

livingetc.com 83
 T H E B E D R O O M CO LO U R I S T R A N Q U I L B U T
A L S O S E XY B E C AU S E O F I TS TAC T I L E
Q UA L I T Y A N D E N V E LO P I N G N AT U R E
X

MAIN
BEDROOM
‘Moody, modern, romantic
and serene,’ is how Jen
describes the inspiration
for this space, which features
a cocooning pale blue
colourwash on the walls and
a custom walnut bed.
Walls in Wellfleet limewash,
Portola Paints. Bed, LA
Woodshop. Malawi rug,
Armadillo. Cantilever
bench by Semigood Design;
cream and Italian brass
swing light, both 1stDibs
 HOUSES

LANDING
‘We knew pattern and colour
would turn this into a focal
point,’ says Jen, who chose a
print in tones that are used
throughout the home.
Prête-Moi Ta Plume
wallpaper, Christian Lacroix.
Sois Belle 2.3 photograph
by Annelie Vandendael,
Tappan Collective

livingetc.com 85
HOUSES

B AT H R O O M
Mirror-hung sconces
add a touch of glamour.
Custom cabinetry,
Jen Samson Design.
Vanity sconces,
Apparatus Studio

86 livingetc.com
HOUSES

ZEST
FOR LIFE
With its palette of sunny sorbet shades
and space-enhancing design, this
Milan apartment is full of good vibes

X PHOTOGRAPHY Helenio Barbetta/Living Inside

WORDS Rachel Christie & Laura Mauceri/Living Inside

88 livingetc.com
LIVING ROOM
‘Pastel tones create a
wonderful vibrancy,’ says
designer Monica Merra.
Artworks (here and left)
by Damiano Groppi. Louis
Poulsen PH Artichoke
pendant, Nest. Patcha
rug, Patricia Urquiola
for cc-tapis at Monologue.
Zattere stool; Fondamenta
table, both Patricia Urquiola
at Cimento. Vintage Gigi
Sabadin for Stilwood chair,
1stDibs. Stilnovo Megafono
lamp (left), Lightsource.
Sofa, Berto Salotti
DINING AREA
‘All choices regarding
furnishings – from design
icons to vintage pieces –
were made to enhance
what remained of the
past in this period
apartment,’ says Monica.
Similar Sedie Anni
1950s chairs, Vinterior.
Novamobili Torii table,
Go Modern. Illustration by
Damiano Groppi
 HOUSES

ailing originally from the rolling hills of

Tuscany, Giulia and Giacomo made the move into Milan’s hip
Isola district in 2019 when they fell in love at first sight with this
beautiful apartment located in a Liberty-era (Italian variant of
Art Nouveau) building. North of Porta Garibaldi station and
next to Porta Nuovo, Isola is the perfect blend of old Milan, with
its historic houses and metropolitan vibe, and new, evidenced by
artisan shops, vintage stores, chic restaurants and cool bars.
Although the apartment had been renovated a decade before,
as parents to two young children, the couple needed it updated
a little in order to function better for family living. So they
consulted a family friend, Monica Merra, who owns the
architecture and interior design practice Ameno Architettura. opening previously closed doorways,’ she says. ‘So, between
‘The previous renovation had eliminated many of the original, the large living room, initially only accessible from the entrance,
more distinctive elements of the apartment,’ says Monica. ‘The and the kitchen, previously completely isolated from the living
space felt somewhat disconnected from its historical charm, and, area, an opening was created. This connection not only linked the
overall, it was not well-suited for a young family.’ two spaces, but also established a visual continuity, which aligns
Monica officially started the project in February 2020 – and with the couple’s sociability.’
we all know what happened next. ‘We began shortly before the Internal doors and the remaining decorative plaster detailing
pandemic outbreak and soon after we were in lockdown,’ she were carefully preserved, respecting the original spirit of the
says. ‘I still think back to the difficulties of the first weeks of apartment, while a simple, pastel-coloured design was born –
construction and the subsequent one-month hiatus, with the the only exception being the bold tones of the wallpaper that is
inevitable delays that ensued. Despite the challenges, I have located at the end of the hallway. ‘Wallpaper is never missing
pleasant memories of the daily walk through a strangely silent in my projects,’ explains Monica.
metropolis to reach the construction site.’ The pretty, Parisian-inspired, pale-toned background
Initially the renovation of the apartment was meant to be provides a neutral canvas for an edited selection of iconic
minor, focusing on remodelling the bathrooms, treating the pieces of furniture that seamlessly integrate with custom-made
original parquet and refreshing the paintwork. It quickly evolved designs and clever storage solutions. ‘Every client has their
into something more substantial when, on closer inspection, ow n taste, ever y space has its soul a nd its stor y,’ says
Monica discovered that much of the parquet flooring needed Monica. ‘I don’t like to talk about personal style – every project
replacing. She seized the opportunity to reconfigure the space, is different from the others – but it ’s the obsession with
making subtle, yet impactful, changes to improve functionality, details, and combinations of textures, colours and finishes,
while preserving most of the existing layout. that connect all my work.’
‘To maximise the practicality of the space, I started from the X
hallway, creating new visual and functional connections by amenoarchitettura.com

livingetc.com 91
 K I TC H E N
‘The design plays with
contrasts: geometric rigour
and curved lines; warm and
cold colours – reminiscent of
Le Corbusier’s polychromatic
experiments,’ says Monica.
Bespoke lacquered-wood
cabinets, table and bench,
all designed by Monica
Merra and made by Proma
Group. Worktop and
splashback in Carrara
marble, Interno 18. Louis
Poulsen Cirque pendant
lamp, Aram. Majolica lava
stone floor tiles, Made a
Mano. Zattere stool by
Patricia Urquiola, Cimento

OFFICE
‘The bespoke bookcase in
a bold petrol hue brings a
contemporary edge to this
classic room,’ says Monica.
Cavalletto desk, Franco
Albini at Chaplins. Cesca
chair, Marcel Breuer at
Knoll. Similar shelving paint
colour, Peacock Blue, Coat
 HOUSES

the dow n load

THE DESIGNER
Monica Merra, owner of architecture
and interior design practice
Ameno Architettura, was asked by
her friends Giacomo, who works in
investment funding, and Giulia,
a lawyer, to make their period
apartment more suitable for family
life. The couple have two children –
Sveva, five, and Giovanni, three.

THE LAYOUT
Located on the third floor, the period
apartment consists of a large living
room with dining area, a kitchen,
two bedrooms, a office/spare room,
two bathrooms, a walk-in closet
and a laundry.

livingetc.com 93
MAIN
BEDROOM
‘The focal point of the space
is the wardrobe with its
recess featuring a bronze-
finish clothes rack and
mirror,’ says Monica. ‘Adding
a recess to a wardrobe
creates a modern and
functional furniture solution,
giving the design a distinct
look and making wall-to-wall
configurations feel lighter.’
Alfa wardrobe, Novamobili.
Square chair, Moroso at
Chaplins. Triennale 2 throw,
Lanerossi. Cushion,
Christian Fischbacher
 HOUSES

B AT H R O O M
‘The space features
curved lines, brass
touches and soft opaque
porcelain tiles inspired
by trees and flowers – all
strong references to
Art Nouveau aesthetics.
The design is simple yet
refined,’ says Monica.
Botteganove Flora wall
tiles, Casa Ceramica.
Majolica lava stone floor
tiles, Made a Mano.
Nouveau vanity, Ex.t
at C.P. Hart. Mini B tap,
Bellosta. Crel towel,
Society Limonta

livingetc.com 95
HOUSES

MADE TO
MEASURE
Inside and out, the bespoke and crafted elements of
this Lisbon abode make for a home like no other

OUTDOOR
S E AT I N G A R E A
The textured finish of the
bench is one of the brighter
moments in the apartment,
setting off the greenery
planted against the wall. ‘The
big garden was one of the
things that drew the client to
buy this apartment,’ says
designer João.
Armchairs, Fermob.
Side tables, Area.
Cushions, Teresa Gameiro

POOL
In reworking the original
pool, Studio Gameiro
partnered with Portuguese
studio Viúva Lamego on
these bespoke tiles. ‘We
collaborated with them to
create a specific colour for
us – Klein Blue meets ocean
blue,’ says João. To create
an oceanic feeling, custom
angled tiles allow the water
PHOTOGRAPHS Francisco Nogueira to lap right to the edge on
three of the pool’s sides.
X

WORDS Ellen Finch

Handmade ceramic tiles,
Viúva Lamego

96 livingetc.com
HOUSES

98 livingetc.com
L I V I N G S PAC E
A broken-plan layout
between living and dining
areas stays true to the
original floor plan of this
apartment. ‘We made the
archway taller because it
was low, so there was not
much connection between
the rooms,’ says João. ‘The
client likes hosting friends,
so he wanted to enhance
that relationship without
losing the notion of the
dining room.’
Tapestry by Cruzeiro
Seixas; manufactured in
Portalegre, Portugal.
Butterfly chairs,
Arne Jacobsen for
Fritz Hansen. Bespoke
fireplace and shelving,
Studio Gameiro

livingetc.com 99
 K I TC H E N
Catering for the client’s love
of cooking, baking and
hosting – with a central
island that guests ‘flock
around’ – this space features
some design trickery. Colour
and pattern is contained to
the bottom half of the
cabinets to draw the eye
down and prevent the
kitchen from getting lost in
the high-ceilinged room.
‘The geometric base
cabinets contrast with the
organic texture of the
granite, so your eyes are
drawn to that first section of
the kitchen, not to the upper
cupboards,’ says João.
Custom kitchen, Studio
Gameiro. Ceramic pot,
Marta Raimundo
 HOUSES

t first glance, the Canadian granite kitchen splashback of this Lisbon the dow n load
home is simply a beautifully carved piece of stone. Actually, it’s been shaped to reflect the
THE DESIGNER
sound waves of the owner’s voice – one of the magical intricacies of this apartment, and a
João Gameiro, founding architect of
testament to both the creativity of its designer, João Gameiro, and the power of a great
Lisbon-based Studio Gameiro. He
designer-client relationship. The story of the splashback was a long-running joke during
was asked to rework this apartment
the project. ‘The client had certain sayings he would repeat, such as, “Trust doesn’t avoid by his client, a former hospitality
control”,’ says João. ‘We recorded it and modelled the splashback on the sound waves.’ In executive manager and art collector,
the garden, a column is modelled on a recording of the studio’s name. ‘We wanted to add in who had moved to Lisbon from Paris
these little surprises – elements that no one would know about unless the client told them.’ with his two dogs and two cats. At
Drawn to the historic 19th-century apartment building in Lisbon’s Príncipe Real the time of the project he was also
neighbourhood, the client asked Studio Gameiro to enhance original features and create a expecting a child, now aged two.
home fit for the client’s pets, as well as a new baby on the way. One of João’s first tasks was
to remove cement-based repairs and apply a lime and clay-based stucco, closer to what THE PROPERTY
Set in a 19th-century building in the
would have been used originally. ‘The client didn’t know if it was worth the investment, but
neighbourhood of Príncipe Real, the
the stucco became one of the highlights,’ says João. As well as addressing the practical,
apartment had been renovated in
family-proof point of the brief – you can rub out light scratches with a finger – it changed
the mid-2000s. Entering the
the atmosphere of the space, adding the warmth that the client was keen to introduce.
U-shaped layout from the middle, to
Creating a connection to the garden and pool was another key tenet, achieved through the left are three bedrooms, two
the use of materials and shape. Soft curves appear throughout, not least in the fireplace by bathrooms (including the main en
Studio Gameiro with slabs of travertine like oversized pebbles and a ‘hut’-shaped hood, a suite), a TV room and an office. To
nod to the style original to these buildings. The shapes are mirrored in the steps to the pool. the right are the kitchen and the
João saw craftsmanship as a means to create a connection to the building and its broken-plan living-dining room
history. The home had undergone an unsympathetic renovation in the mid-2000s in leading to the garden with sitting
which ornate ceilings were covered up and frescoes painted over. ‘We wanted to work with and dining areas, a pool, an outdoor

the original materials and introduce a contemporary take on craftsmanship inspired by shower and a laundry room.

the old elements,’ says João. The studio drew on the wood mouldings of the windows, for
example, when they designed the hand-carved headboard in the main bedroom. The
bathroom basins reference stonework in local buildings. ‘They were originally made with
a stone called Lioz,’ says João. ‘We used Rose of Fatima, modelling the sinks in 3D and
sending them to be cut. Then a craftsman perfected by hand the areas the machine
couldn’t. This combination of craftsmanship and modern tools is the way forward.’
There is so much to see in this Lisbon home before you even get to the art – the owner is
a keen collector – but the point of João’s interventions is to make these personal additions
stand out. ‘Even where we’ve used different colours in rooms, it’s all seamlessly connected,’
he says. ‘What we create with our projects is a beautiful backdrop.’
X
studiogameiro.com

livingetc.com 101
HOUSES

T H E CO LO U R S T H AT
W E C H O S E FO R T H E
R O O M S E X P R E SS
THE DIFFERENCES IN LIGHT
– T H E WA R M TO N E S
REPRESENT A SUNSET
LIGHT AND THE BRIGHTER
TO N E S SY M B O L I S E
DAY L I G H T
X

OFFICE
With the client and his with the piled rocks by
then-partner split between the pool,’ explains João.
style preferences, this is a ‘The hammered texture
room of two halves, with celebrates the craft that only
more modern shelves and skilled people can do. It says,
lighting out of view. ‘One look, there are elements here
loves antiques and inherited to disrupt the simplicity
a lot of these paintings, while within this apartment.’
the other was a lot more
contemporary,’ says João. Console table, Studio
Gameiro. Artwork by
Vintage Fauteuil de Bureau Amande Haeghen,
mod. 932 desk chair by Ole Ojo Gallery
Larsen and Jørgen Lund;
similar, 1stDibs. Chair by
window: Untitled (Concrete B AT H R O O M
Chair) Version 1.0 by A singular type of marble
Magnus Pettersen. Similar used across countertop and
wall sconce, Ashby floor creates a backdrop for
Lighting. Similar antique the carved sink to shine.
desk, Selling Antiques.
Similar vintage oil Bespoke marble basin, Studio
paintings, Vinterior Gameiro. Handmade brass
door handle, Maison Vervloet.
Similar bathroom fittings, try
ENTRANCE Dowsing & Reynolds. Similar
A Studio Gameiro design, mirror, ABI Interiors
the console table sets the
tone for the rest of the home.
‘It has these elements of
stone and rock and natural,
simple composition that
we also have in the exterior

102 livingetc.com
HOUSES

MAIN
BEDROOM
The play of contrasts
that runs through the
apartment continues
here, with the organic,
hand-crafted nature of
the headboard set
against a dainty but
angular pendant light.
Bespoke hand-carved
headboard, Studio
Gameiro. String
hanging light, Flos.
Similar bedding,
The White Company

THE NEW BESPOKE PIECES LIKE THE

H E A D B OA R D M AY LO O K M O D E R N B U T T H E I R
C R A F T E D N AT U R E I S A N O D TO T H E PAST
X

104 livingetc.com
HOUSES

PLAIN SAILING
This converted boathouse in Copenhagen provides
carefree days on the waterfront for its architect owners

PHOTOGRAPHY Stine Christiansen

STYLING Kate Imogen Wood
X

WORDS Kate Jacobs

106 livingetc.com
 LIVING AREA
‘It’s a small house, but the
deck is a physical extension
of the space through the
spring and summer, and a
visual extension in the
winter,’ says owner and
architect Kristina.
Arctander lounge chair
and ottoman, Paustian.
Oblique stool, Ferm Living.
(On deck, left) Rib chair
and table, Anker. Cutter
bench, Skagerak
 LIVING AREA
‘We had fun designing
the sofa,’ says Kristina.
‘We used the same pine
as the floor for visual
continuity and the arms
double up as side tables.’
Sofa, Vermland. Print by
Jean Arp, Galerie Maeght.
Colonna marble coffee
table, Mawrble. Shade
Loop rug; Shell pot, both
Ferm Living. Tall metal
candlestick, Skultuna.
Box, 101 Copenhagen.
For a bubble vase, try
Manai Home
 HOUSES

hen the reflections come off the water, it’s painstakingly with clients on a daily basis, the designer couple
the most beautiful light you can get. It’s one of the pinch-me enjoyed taking a more free and experimental approach on their
moments of living here,’ says Kristina Line, gesturing to the own home. ‘We designed and built everything in our workshop,
bright, sparkling light that dances around the living room of her which we loved. When you take an intuitive approach, there’s a
Copenhagen boathouse. This light has found the perfect setting kind of magic because anything can happen.’
in her home: the proportions, the materials, the muted colours – To create continuity within the small house, a simple
ever y th ing is desig ned a rou nd it s and pared-back material palette runs
waterside location. ‘It’s a small house, throughout. ‘I prefer work ing w ith
but the deck is a physical extension of the
the dow n load natural materials, things like wood and
space through the spring and summer, THE OWNERS/DESIGNERS stone that age beautifully. If something
and a visual extension in the winter.’ Norwegian-born Kristina Line and Dane gets a mark or imperfection, it doesn’t
It was the harbourside location that Anton Bak are both architects with their own matter; it’s telling a story,’ says Kristina.
Kristina and her partner Anton fell for; design studios: Kristina heads up the More texture is added through thick
the boathouse itself was unremarkable eponymous Kristina Line Architects, while rugs and tactile upholstery. ‘It’s good to
and shoddily patched up, so the pair Anton runs modular furniture company, combine different textures when you
decided to rebu ild f rom t he well- Vermland. They live here with their have a minimalist backdrop, to give it
one-year-old son Vinter.
insulated floor up. Boosting the ceiling some depth of character.’ At the windows,
heig ht enabled t hem to create a n simple linen curtains waft in the early
THE PROPERTY
impressive main space where floor-to- summer breeze. ‘I love to see the slubby
The home started out as a fisherman’s shed
cei l i ng g la s s door s now t a ke f u l l texture of the linen when the sunlight is
that has been added to over the years. It
advantage of the views beyond. ‘It was rests half on land, half on stilts over the behind it,’ says Kristina.
important to us to have a good-sized area water and is located in a beautiful area of At this time of year, the family likes to
to share with friends and family, so we Copenhagen. As you enter, there’s a walk-in be out on the deck. ‘We have an outdoor
worked hard on the design to save space closet and a bathroom; beyond that is the kitchen and we like to have friends over
elsewhere,’ explains Kristina. bedroom, which faces a bank of storage, and go for a swim, then make homemade
The couple went for a cosy, timber- including a study nook; then the space opens pizzas in our outdoor oven.’ On other
clad bedroom and compact but versatile up into an open-plan kitchen, dining and days, the little family hop into their
modula r k itchen – a protot y pe for living room, with a waterside terrace. kayak and spend time pottering around
Anton’s company Vermland. In sleek the surrounding waterways, stopping to
oiled oak, the second of the two kitchen island components can explore islands, forts and waterside restaurants. ‘It has always
be folded back against the wall when Kristina and Anton host been our dream to get back to living by the water,’ says Kristina.
larger groups of friends for lunch or dinner. ‘It’s fun to be able to ‘Here we can sit with our son Vinter and watch the wildlife, from
transform your space – it allows you to express yourself and ducks to swans and even seals.’
makes the house feel more alive,’ says Kristina. She mentions X
fun a lot as she describes this project, and no wonder – working @kristina__line; @vermland.cph

livingetc.com 109
 K I TC H E N
‘Anton designed this kitchen
range with legs to create a
lighter look. It is assembled
in modules for greater
flexibility,’ says Kristina. ‘He
is obsessed with finding just
the right timber for his work.
Here, the oak came from a
single tree and has been
oiled to a soft sheen.’
The Collection kitchen
cabinets, Vermland. For a
similar marble worktop and
splashback, try The Marble
Store. Vilhelm bar stool,
Make Nordic. Tap, Quooker

110 livingetc.com
 HOUSES

DINING AREA
‘This large, scallop-edged
pendant light is a great
way to zone the table,’
says Kristina. ‘We
whitened the solid pine
floor with lye and we
wash it with a white-
tinted soap, a traditional
Danish product.’
Dancing pendant light
by Audo Copenhagen,
Nest. Soft Spot table
lamp, Rosendahl. For a
vintage table and chairs,
try Danish Homestore

livingetc.com 111
HOUSES

BEDROOM
‘This was another
experiment to see how it
would work if we really
squeezed it down to make
space elsewhere. With the
wood panelling it feels really
cosy,’ says Kristina.
Gridy Fungi shelves,
Audo Copenhagen

I N A T I N Y S PAC E I T H I N K I T ’ S B E ST TO H AV E A F E W G E N E R O U S LY
S I Z E D P I E C E S O F F U R N I T U R E R AT H E R T H A N LOTS O F S M A L L O N E S
X

112 livingetc.com
 april march february
may 2024 2024 2024 2024

LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN

THE
SMALL
INTRODUCING THE S PAC E
NEW PRETTY H OW T O D E C O R AT E T O DAY
ISSUE
A M A Z I N G A PA R T M E N T S ,
BIG IDEAS FOR BEDROOMS,
STRIKING MUR AL S TO MAKE
TH E MOST OF E VE RY INCH

THE
DESIGN
THE YEAR
TRENDS O F CO S Y
ISSUE D E C O R S C H E M E S T O WA R M YO U R S O U L
FURNITURE AND LIGHTING FOR PERFECT LIVING ROOMS
W E K N OW H OW YO U ’ L L B E P L U S S T O R AG E, E X T E N S I O N S A N D T H E A R T O F
CO LLEC TO R ’ S COVE R D E C O R AT I N G T H I S Y E A R A N D B E YO N D THE PLASTER FINISH

january december november

2024 2023 2023

LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN

C E L E B R AT E
IN ST YLE
W E ’ V E G O T D E C O R AT I N G A N D
HOSTING ALL WRAPPED UP
DESIGNERS PICK THE
U LT I M AT E C H R I S T M A S G I F T S
N EW DECOR TRE N DS FOR KITCH E N ,
D I N I N G A N D B E D R O O M I N S P I R AT I O N

EXPRESSIVE G E T I N TO
ELEGANCE THE MOOD
W I T H L AU R A H A R R I E R T H E M AT E R I A L S , T H E C O L O U R S , T H E T E X T U R E S A N D T H E L I G H T I N G
INTRODUCING 2024’S CHICEST DESIGN TREND T H AT S E T T H E T O N E F O R A N E W S E A S O N O F S T Y L E

september august
2023 2023 july 2023

LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN LEADING BY DESIGN

DRESSED
TO I M P R E S S
T H E M O S T E XC I T I N G C R E AT I V E S
O N H OW T O S T Y L E YO U R H O M E
SMALL DECOR PROJ EC TS TO
E L E VAT E E AC H R O O M
A N E W C O L O U R PA L E T T E
SETTING NEXT SEASON’S TRENDS

TURN
UP THE
ST YLE IS H E AT
H O W T O B R I N G T H AT S U N S H I N E

E V E RY T H I N G F E E L I N G T O YO U R H O M E A L L Y E A R
O U R E D I T O F S U M M E R ’ S B E S T PAT T E R N S
T H E 5 3 B E S T H O M E WA R E D E S I G N S O F T H E Y E A R E V E R Y T H I N G YO U N E E D T O S T Y L E
H OW TO US E CO LO U R LI K E A PRO T H E P E R F E C T O U T D O O R S PAC E

D E C O R AT E W I T H C O N F I D E N C E T O
L I V E I N A S PAC E YO U L OV E

may 2023

LEADING BY DESIGN

D E S I G N YO U R
H A P P Y P L AC E
PAT T E R N S , T E X T UR E S A N D C O L O U R S
T O E L E VAT E E V E R Y R O O M
T H E J OY O F T H E P E R F E C T N O O K
N E W - S E A S O N PA L E T T E S T H E B E S T
C R E AT I V E S L OV E N OW

114 livingetc.com
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livingetc.com 115
 Upper walls in
Le Petit Palais;
lower walls in
Taffeta; shelves in
Teal, Duck Egg and
Stepping Stone,
all £22.15 for
2.5ltr, Crown

PA S T E L S F O R E V E R
Sorbet shades are classic fare at this
time of year – they evoke the blue skies,
pink blossom and new shoots of the
season. They’re also soothing and easy
on the eye – just take this scheme from
I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H
Crown, based on their ‘Escape’ colour
trend, which mixes soft, retro candy
hues with a very modern sensibility. It’s
an example of how to use pastels in a
very grown-up way – and we’re a fan.

CO LO U R S T H AT B R I N G H A P P I N E S S , O U T D O O R FA B R I C S FO R A V E RY
S T Y LI S H S U M M ER A N D A M A ZI N G H A L L I D E A S TO W E LCO M E G U E S T S

livingetc.com 117
D E C O R AT I N G

soft power
With small-scale patterns and woven textures, there’s an understated chic
to this season’s outdoor fabrics – they’re made to be admired up close
FEATURE Ellen Finch

SERENE
SUMMER
Restrained outdoor fabrics
can transport you to sunnier
climes just as much as the
quintessential palm print
– as evidenced by the Venice
Beach collection from Élitis.
The trick is to pick patterns
with a bohemian sensibility,
like the large herringbone of
Vernon. Spot the tassel on that
bolster cushion, too – these
quieter fabrics offer myriad
opportunities to personalise
with passementerie.

Lounger in Vernon fabric from

the Venice Beach collection,
£196lin m, Élitis

118 livingetc.com
D R E A M W E AV E
Without bold pattern or colour,
outdoor fabrics can sometimes
feel, well, a little flat – but not
so with Veranda Panama from
Mark Alexander, which boasts
a highly textural two-tone
weave, incorporating a chunky
boucle, which gives the fabric
a casual, effortless look that
rivals the best indoor textiles in
aesthetics. There’s no need for
accessories and embellishment:
pair with relaxed wood and let
the texture do the talking.

Chairs in Veranda Panama

in Sand, M674/02, £149m,
Mark Alexander h
D E C O R AT I N G

H E L LO H AWA I I
Camengo describes its Honolulu
In & Outdoor collection as a
‘cheerful carnival of colours and
textures’ – and we couldn’t think
of a better way to word it. Colours
pop despite the fine, micro-scale
pattern, but the collection is subtle
enough to use two-tone and
multicolour options in tandem
without the whole scheme feeling
like a maximalist explosion. 
h

Sofa in Paillotte, £67.10m; pouf

in Lilikoi, £58.70m; cushions
in Lilikoi, £58.70m, Port Pin,
£54.80m, Hilo, £67.10m, and
Paréo, £51.30m, all Camengo h

120 livingetc.com
livingetc.com 121
 SMART
CASUAL
Harlequin’s indoor-outdoor
offering for 2024 has plenty
of the brand’s signature bold
pattern and spirited colour
palette, but we wanted to
zero in on the quieter side
– the weaves, offered in rich
rusts and blues but also in
more neutral tones. Pairing
well with linear metal garden
furniture, these textiles are
cosy and casual.
Cushions (clockwise
from left): Altan in Mineral/
Ivory, £79; Aelius in
Mineral/Ivory, £79; Elio in
Slate, £69, all Harlequin
 D E C O R AT I N G

IN THE MIX
Keeping all of your textiles
small-scale in pattern means you
can get away with combining
trellis, stripe and basketweave
motifs while maintaining a
somewhat minimalist aesthetic.
That’s exactly what Manuel
Canovas does here with its
Faro collection of performance
textiles; the understated
criss-cross of the Comporta
fabric adds depth and
dimension to a textural scheme.
Sofa in Comporta in Indigo,
£144m; cushions in Maia in
Marine and Bordeaux, £114m,
and Joya in Marine and Epices,
£96m, Manuel Canovas h

livingetc.com 123
D E C O R AT I N G

BISTRO CHIC
A grown-up take on outdoor
fabrics, the bistro-esque
Nice basketweave design
from Etamine’s most recent
outdoor collection creates a
fine geometric pattern from
a simple colour palette. Yet
it still manages to feel a
little playful despite its
sophistication – thanks in
part to its pairing here with
a rounded chair, the furniture
shape creating a contrast
with the graphic textile.

Chairs in Nice fabric in

673 from the Heures d’été
collection, £140.90m, Etamine
at Zimmer + Rohde

124 livingetc.com
 colour decoded
There’s nothing subtle about this scheme, says Livingetc’s
Amy Moorea Wong – it’s a celebration of the pure joy of colour

Created by
Ayromloo Design,
this snippet of a
living room scheme
balances bold
and bright shades
against each other
 D E C O R AT I N G

If using bold colour in the home can be twisting pink centrepiece, their (intriguing)
said to be a brave act, then the designer of this presence highlighting the contrast against the
space deserves a medal. Call off the hunt – this is dramatic dominating dimensions.
where the vividity has been hiding. Stimulating
the senses, the living room is a high-intensity There are several surprises tucked into
celebration of can’t-go-any-higher saturation. I the space. Firstly, the pale pastel elements, LOTUS PINK,
pink and peach. Now they’re not in keeping with DESIGNERS GUILD
feel partly like I need to find my sunglasses, partly
like this is where the action’s at and partly like I’m the power-palette. They catch us off guard and
having a lucid dream. I know I’m not bored. give our eyes somewhere to pause – with a double-
take – to assess the situation, and then to get
Electricity pulses through the room. Lime caught up in the alternate tones, when there’s
green. Acid yellow. Neon blue, if there’s such a been enough bouncing around the surrounding
shade. You can practically hear the power vibrating all-encompassing f lamboyance. There’s the
through the air. ‘The palette was inspired by the silver base of the unadulteratedly lemon table, FAIRY DUST ®, CROWN
bold colours and energy its ref lections adding a
of Venice Beach – graffiti, new dimension to the room
rollerblades, sunsets, while standing out as a
amusements,’ its creator, point of distinct non-colour
Jessica Ayromloo, owner and bringing a more real,
of L A-ba sed i nter ior m or e a d u lt a n d m or e MARIGOLD,
design practice Ayromloo grounded feel. And there’s LITTLE GREENE
Design, explains. ‘It feels the lush rug. At a textural
alive and happy.’ extreme, this rug brings
fluffiness into the land of
These tones work as the smooth, turning heads
a team, so there’s no dow nwa rd s a s wel l a s
one area that jumps denoting a playful nudge LEMON SQUEEZY,
out first. ‘It’s holistic; in the ribs with its offbeat CLAYBROOK
the colours are arranged grassy-ness in perfectly
to complement and speak manicured rows.
to each other in a way
that creates balance,’ says Did you even notice
Jessica. ‘There’s also a the walls are grey?
sense of harmony and relaxation within the How hard that is to identify. It’s like the inner
DAY DREAMER™,
vibrancy.’ The heaviest hue in the room, the sofa’s room is doing everything it can to stop you coming CROWN
solid chunk of blueness, is supported sandwich- to this realisation, to hypnotise you away from
style by a duo of greens, the shade continuing to its plain backdrop. It works. I can barely get my
ripple throughout the space in smaller bites. No vision to hold on the surfaces – and why would I
PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE) ANNIE SCHLECHTER

colour only appears once; they’re all tied together when there’s so much excitement going on
down to the thinnest of upholstery piping, the everywhere else? Apparently my brain now skips
artwork neatly narrating the entire thing. over grey like a design-led blind spot.
FRIENDLY GREEN,
YESCOLOURS
Shapes let colour take the lead. Forms are This living room is indisputable proof that
oversized, almost cartoonishly so, adding to the paint isn’t the only way to express your
sense of the surreal (as well as the practical comfort- vibrant nature in the home. It doesn’t need to
factor). The giant sofa, artwork and table may involve walls and it certainly doesn’t need to follow
function mainly as colour-carriers, but their size any rules except for your own.
makes the palette that bit more purposeful, X
extravagant and in-your-face. There are moments FTT-017™
Amy Moorea Wong is a design journalist and
MIDNIGHT, MYLANDS
of delicacy and elegance – the poised table, the author. @amy_moorea; amymoorea.com

livingetc.com 127
 entrance exam
Your foyer makes the crucial first impression, so draw on these excellent
entryways for inspiration and a look that’ll get top marks from guests
FEATURE Aditi Sharma Maheshwari

128 livingetc.com
 D E C O R AT I N G

‘I always like to make a moment out of the welcoming

entrance area, to keep it separate from the rest of the
home and make it feel more private. Darker tones can set
an intimate mood if that’s what you want. Lately, I have
been using muted green a lot.’
Lucia Galeano, Studio Galeón

‘To keep the entryway clutter-free and enable enough

room for you and your guests to use it, opt for built-in
storage. Consider storage benches or opt for baskets and
caddies to hide items away in open shelves. It is essential
to keep the entryway clear of bulky items so, if possible,
hide your shoes, umbrellas and coats behind cupboards
or under the stairs.’
Ann Marie Cousins, founder of AMC Design

‘Applying runners is a great way to soften the acoustics

of the entryway; they also give an element of protection
to a timber f loor and [provide] a way to apply an
interesting texture such as sisal.’
Rachel Usher, interior designer
PHOTOGRAPH MAX BURKHALTER

GO WITH TH E FLOW
The elevator vestibule of this New York apartment features
a poured terrazzo floor. ‘The regulated fluidity of circulation
allows for sprawl across multiple rooms, while also
celebrating and activating the formal gallery space, which
is such a hallmark of a classic Park Avenue apartment,’ says
Michael K Chen, principal of Michael K Chen Architecture.
GET THE LOOK Similar lights, 1stDibs. Find a chair like this
at Brodie Neillh

livingetc.com 129
 LIFE IN COLOU R
A lick of paint and vibrant accessories can go a long way in setting a welcoming vibe for your home. ‘We created a wow-worthy
Moroccan-inspired entryway, with references to one of the most famous gardens in the world, the Jardin Majorelle,’ say Sabrina Panizza
and Aude Lerin, founders of PL Studio.
GET THE LOOK Rug, Beni Rugs. Chair, Six The Residence. Walls in Kimono, Graham & Brown

130 livingetc.com
 D E C O R AT I N G
PHOTOGRAPHS (LIFE IN COLOUR) AUDE LERIN; (SOCIAL OCCASION) JAM

SOCIAL OCCASION
Make the entrance a fun, socialising hub with seating and storage. ‘This cafe-style set-up with custom built-in bench seating was created
for a young family to make breakfasts and casual meals much easier, and to provide a cosy coffee shop vibe for work-from-home days,’
says Megan Prime, co-founder and principal of JAM.
GET THE LOOK Similar tulip-style table and chairs, Design Within Reach. Carpet, JAM
h

livingetc.com 131
 AND RELAX…
For the most impactful entrance, consider colour drenching the space in a soft, calming hue that instantly relaxes the mind. For added
interest, consider a colour block with a differently painted door. Add sconces to keep the scene well lit and dainty. ‘For this entrance space,
the palette idea stemmed from the client’s fondness for the colour peach,’ says Shiraz Jamali, founder of Shiraz Jamali Architects.
GET THE LOOK Wall lights, Mother Gone Mad Design Studio. Walls in paint from Asian Paints; for similar, try Soft Cream, Crown

132 livingetc.com
 D E C O R AT I N G
PHOTOGRAPHS (AND RELAX…) YADNYESH JOSHI; (NATURAL CHARM) ADRIEN DIRAND

N AT U R A L C H A R M
For an instantly amiable vibe in the foyer, choose an organic materials palette that oozes warmth. ‘This entrance/lobby was intentionally
dark, in contrast to the rest of the living space, full of light. The dark wood is reminiscent of the Lowveld nature reserve.
The light is a precious object of the room’, says Antoine Simonin, founder of Studio Asaï.
GET THE LOOK Table, Lemon. Light, Ingo Maurer
h

livingetc.com 133
 GRAND ENTRANCE
In old homes, the original architecture lends charm to the space. To introduce layering, add vintage lights and dry flowers. ‘This entryway
sets the tone for the entire home, so it was important to create interest through the ceiling shape and texture. The lantern and antique
brick give an industrial feel, offset by the gilt mirror and soft curves throughout,’ says Marie Flanigan, founder of Marie Flanigan Interiors.
GET THE LOOK Ceiling light, Paul Ferrante. Mirror from Original Round Top Antiques Fair, Texas

134 livingetc.com
 D E C O R AT I N G
PHOTOGRAPHS (GRAND ENTRANCE) JULIE SOEFER; (ONE OF A KIND) STUDIO SDELAEMREMONT

ONE OF A KIND
Add a whimsical touch to the entrance with a unique door design, and allow its palette to flow within the interior. ‘It all started with the
incorporation of stained-glass windows for the doors. The colours of the glass were quite limited, but we like how we combined the chosen
ones into one complete picture and added a complementing wall colour,’ says Elina Mussakulova of Studio Sdelaemremont.
GET THE LOOK Mirror, Studio Sdelaemremont and Elements Store. Walls in Sorbet F306, Tikkurila; for similar, try Sunrise, Crown 
h

livingetc.com 135
D E C O R AT I N G

LITTLE WONDER OPEN SECRET

A small entryway can be kept crisp and clutter-free with a smart Make a space multifunctional with storage niches that hide shoes,
vignette. ‘This space was designed with a console to organise life bags and even a washing machine. ‘Our goal was to turn this into
in a chic way,’ says Danielle Krieg, interior designer at Studio AM. an entry space that was functional yet beautiful,’ says Allison Lind,
founder of Allison Lind Interiors.
GET THE LOOK Custom Octave with integrated maildrop console,
Altura Furniture GET THE LOOK Rug, Loloi Rugs. Ceiling light, Visual Comfort & Co

ALL IS CALM
By including a day bed, plants and
soft lighting, you can create the
most tranquil entrance, perfect
for a calming home. ‘The client
gave me carte blanche to do
what I liked as long as we made
the house cat-friendly, so I based
the design on Mesopotamian
shapes, the Tower of Babel and
post-modernism,’ says designer
Timothy Godbold.
GET THE LOOK Plant, Foliage
Garden. Bench by Timothy
Godbold and Shepard Co

PHOTOGRAPHS (LITTLE WONDER) HARIS KENJAR; (OPEN SECRET)

WYNNE EARLE; (ALL IS CALM) DAVID MITCHELL

136 livingetc.com
 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Walls, ceiling and

woodwork in One Of A
Kind. Window feature
wall in Work Of Art.
Artwork (on fireplace) in
Granite Top and Entice

a perfect palette of paints

T H E C R A F T E D B Y C R O W N C O L L E C T I O N I S A W O N D E R F U L LY C O N C I S E E D I T
O F E N R I C H I N G C O LO U R S , I N F I N I S H E S T H AT A D D D E P T H A N D B E AU T Y

One of the pleasures of putting Livingetc multi-surface paint that glides across
together each month is reporting on walls, ceiling and woodwork and creates
how much creativity there is on the UK cocooning depth. The Suede Textured
craft scene. We’re always inspired by the Finish is unique and sustainable and
ideas our homegrown designers dream offers an organic brushstroke effect.
up. And we’re not the only ones, as Crown Then the Lustrous Metallic Finish,
has poured this artistry into its Crafted available for the eight metallics, hits just
by Crown collection – a multi-surface, the right note of opulence.
high-quality range of colours influenced To help you choose between Crafted
by the innovations of British crafters. colours comes the Real Paint Swatches. Walls in Soft Grey.
Woodwork in
Crown is the ideal brand to do this, Each premium paper sample is coated
Button Box
leaning on its 200-year history and with real paint, so you can be confident the
heritage of making paints in the UK. The colour you’re sampling is the true colour
Crafted collection is a perfect colour you’ll get in your home. Simply move them ALL THE DETAILS
Available at Homebase, Wickes, independent
edit – there are a total of 62 beautiful between walls to check the shade under
retailers and Crown Decorating Centres. Visit
shades, a curation of pinks, greens, greys, different light sources. No mess, no fuss
crownpaints.co.uk to see more and order a swatch.
whites, blues, neutrals, suedes and even and they’re fully recyclable, too. Just
metallics. Where the craft truly comes another example of the care and, yes,
into the Crafted collection is the finishes. craftsmanship that has gone into this
Luxurious Flat Matt is a rich and creamy collection. Perfect paints for now.

livingetc.com 137
 N AT U R A L
AT T R AC T I O N
Magnolia, Poliform’s latest
collection for outdoors, is a
celebration of the lightness of
wood – inspired by the fluid lines
of branches and the floating
quality of a falling leaf. Designed
by Emmanuel Gallina for the
Italian brand, the chairs in the
collection feel suitably delicate
and airy, with a simple, slightly
rounded frame in light and dark
finishes. Paired with the Monolith
table, about which we’ve waxed
lyrical in past issues, it’s the
perfect blend of materiality for
an outdoor space that’s just as
sophisticated as indoors.

Monolith low table

in Cementoskin®
crema; Magnolia low
chairs in solid natural
iroko and removable
cover in Merak 19
mattone, prices on
request, Poliform

SAY H EL LO TO T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S H O P P I N G E D I T – A L L-W E AT H ER
T E X TI L E S , G A R D E N BA R M U S T- H AV E S , LO U N G I N G F U R N I T U R E A N D M O R E

livingetc.com 139
 little black book: outdoor textiles
LO N D O N - B A S E D I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R S T E P H A N I E B A R B A M E N D OZ A
T E L L S U S H E R G O -T O P L A C E S F O R A L F R E S C O FA B R I C S

An outdoor Miami
scheme by Stephanie
Barba Mendoza
features fabrics from
Link Outdoor, Dedar
and Samuel & Sons

FEATURE AMY MOOREA WONG PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE)

CLAUDIA URIBE TOURI; (PIERRE FREY) JULIE ANSIAU

140 livingetc.com
 SOURCEBOOK

SCH U MACH ER
Schumacher’s outdoor collection is always a winner for
outdoor cushion fabric; it has really great patterns and
colours. I chose a gingham fabric for my kitchen banquette
– perhaps not the first place you’d think to use an outdoor
textile but it’s a great hack, easy to wipe clean with a
beautiful woven quality so it looks like linen.

PERENNIALS
When I’m sourcing outdoor textiles I initially turn
to Perennials, which has always been ahead of the
curve and was one of the first companies to have an
interesting collection when outdoor fabrics were
hard to find. I especially like the classic stripes and
strong plain colours – Jake Stripe is the perfect
stripe and it comes in some fantastic colours.

DEDAR
When using fabrics outside, there’s PIERRE FREY
a lot more natural light so bold Pierre Frey has a beautiful collection for outdoor upholstery and
colours are much more obvious. soft furnishings. I always find something fun and interesting from
Dedar’s colour combinations are its large selection of patterns and colour combinations. I used
so unique. I have used Etoile in fabrics from the latest collection for a rooftop terrace bar in France
Col.8 Clementine on seats and – the seats will be heavy-use so require a high rub count, but they
cushions; the colour is an almost also need to look beautiful. Try the Sunrise range – it really looks
bright orange but the woven and feels like linen.
quality makes it seem much softer.

LINK OUTDOOR
If you want to highlight texture and give SAMUEL & SONS
colour and pattern less of a focus, Link A simple way to elevate any kind of outdoor
Outdoor from the US has a wonderful upholstery is to use a trim. If you’ve saved money
range in a more subdued palette – and on the fabric of the item’s main body, consider
the quality is incredible. I recently used adding one. Samuel & Sons has an amazing range
its Small Chenille Stripe in Sugar to of outdoor designs – I love the rope-like Saisons
upholster a sofa. The texture is so lovely Cord with Tape as piping for seat cushions.
– a bit of a chenille and a bit of a linen feel.

T H E L I V I N G E TC T E A M R E C O M M E N D S
ROMO OSBORNE & LITTLE CASAMANCE
Transforming the garden into We can practically feel the A perennial Livingetc
an escapist paradise, we’ll be heat and hear the rustling favourite, we’re currently
needing a good few rolls of coming from the African- enamoured with the
the Nicoya collection’s restful inspired flora and fauna of the 70s-style waves of the West
geometrics this summer. intricate Beach House range. Bay collection (pictured).
 SOURCEBOOK

global outlook: interiors report

O U R N E W YO R K E D I TO R K E I T H F L A N AG A N U N COV E R S T H E U S
L A U N C H E S A N D D E S I G N N E W S M A K I N G WAV E S O V E R H E R E T O O

1 ROLL IN 2
MoMA Design Store’s spring preview
was always going to be a delight – it’s
the brand’s ethos, after all, finding and
customising products that surprise
and amuse us. One par ticularly
aspirational yet totally attainable
product it’s unearthed is a colourfully
powder-coated Urban garden trolley
that arrives via f latpack (easy on the 1
environment) and, unlike traditional
outdoor planters, pops with bright
colours (easy on the eyes) like sun yellow
and olive green. To me, it looks like a bar
cart for your herbs and botanicals –
something to spruce up a garden party.

2 SHARP LINES
The latest launch by Dallas-based
Sutherland Furniture, which has a
sizeable showroom at New York Design
Center, is a striking homage to Japanese
aesthetics. Embracing functional clean
l i ne s, t he Wa bi Sa bi col lec t ion’s
‘architectural’ teak furniture features
beautifully sharp angles that form its
Four-seat sofa, while pieces like the Great
lounge chair lean softer with rounded
armrests and legs. I can’t help but think
the entire line would ease perfectly well
with mid-century Scandinavian pieces
to bring that coveted Japandi interior 3
4
design trend straight into the outdoors –
and out into the light.
on either end that cast light up and down. pair finished each other’s sentences
3 INSIDE OUT Like crystal balls, the glass orbs are during a recent preview of their spring-
These days, studios seem to be on a mesmerising – encased in solid brass, su m mer collect ion. W h ile the
PHOTOGRAPHS (1) MOMA DESIGN STORE

dogged pursuit to create light fixtures the whole thing looks nearly too elegant SF-founded decor brand’s new lineup
that blur the line bet ween exterior to be left out in the elements, and yet rain indulges happier, joyous colours with a
and interior design. Folks like Allied or shine, it’s the perfect fit. ‘modern nostalgic’ feel, it’s the Melamine
Maker come to mind, which operates a Collection that, although stark white,
showroom in Tribeca where many of its 4 PA P E R P L E A S E puts a smile on my face. As a playful take
fixtures are designed to shine inside and Monelle Totah and Gary McNatton, the on disposable paper plates, it’s the type of
out (with a minor adjustment or two). Its founders of Hudson Grace, are also best dupe that looks just as chic at an outdoor
new Summit sconce is a lovely example, friends, a fact that was immediately, picnic as it would on your breakfast table.
complete with two solid glass domes charmingly clear as the bespectacled In other words? The best of both worlds.

livingetc.com 143
An outdoor bar in a
project in Sea Island,
Georgia, by Palm
Beach-based Ellen
Kavanaugh Interiors
 SOURCEBOOK

the big ticket: outdoor bars

C R E AT E T H E P E R F E C T S P O T F O R S U M M E R S U N D O W N E R S W I T H
Y O U R V E R Y O W N D R I N K S A R E A – N O R E S E R VAT I O N S R E Q U I R E D

As far as garden renovations go, an counter that can transform when the prohibitive for some people,’ says New
outdoor bar of ten comes under the moment arises. ‘For smaller, urban York-based rooftop garden designer,
category of ‘aspirational’. But we’ve spaces, an outdoor bar could be as A mber Freda. ‘There are plent y of
seen some pretty persuasive examples simple as some deep shelv ing that prefab bars available that are quick and
recently that have convinced us that acts as a prep and serving area,’ says easy to install and cost a lot less than
maybe, after all, a slither of patio or A ndrew Griffiths of interior design custom work.’
bijou balcony might just be enough studio A New Day. Look out for ready-
space for a dream alfresco bar. to-install designs that include storage Consider the relationship between your
space. Having shelves or cupboards i n d o o r a n d ou t d o o r s p a c e w h e n
The first decision is whether to go for a for your glasses, dishes, drinks and deciding on materials. Don’t design in
bespoke, custom-fitted bar or a smaller bar food will help keep your garden isolation, says Andrew. ‘Think about a
freestanding option. The latter might tidy and free up space in your kitchen. garden bar or outdoor entertaining area
s u it ga r den s w her e s pac e i s at a ‘Custom bars can be really gorgeous as an extension of your living space.
premium, whereas bespoke bars might a nd work well when tr y ing to f it a Hard surfaces like micro cement or
be more viable if you have sweeping space perfectly, but they can be cost- tiles work just as well inside or outside,
acres of outdoor space and a bigger so consider where you could introduce
budget to play with. Consider whether consistency of materials.’ Keep in mind
you wa nt to i ncor porat e out door the exterior materials used on your
plumbing for a fully functioning sink home as well. Siding, stucco, brick or
and electricity to keep drinks cool. Your stone: incorporating some of those
planned layout should cater to these same materials into the bar makes for
preferenc e s. D e sig nat e a rea s for a well-thought-out scheme.
ref rigeration a nd ice, a ny cook ing
area if needed, and wet areas for a sink You’ll want to choose
a nd ba r t end i ng , t hen a n a rea for mater ia ls t hat a re
counter space. If you’re going all out, durable and weather-
con sider heat i ng too. ‘ For resistant. ‘Stainless
FEATURE OONAGH TURNER PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE) BRANTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

cooler climates, consider steel, t reated wood

a fire pit or outdoor a nd weat her-resist a nt
heater to extend the fabrics are all ideal,’ says
usability of the bar,’ Bit stool Stack Rydhima. ‘You really don’t
says interior designer in Red, £220, want your bar falling apart
Normann
Ryd hima Bra r of Copenhagen after the first storm.’ Look
R/terior Studio. for worktop surfaces that
are both non-porous and
I f you ’r e t h i n k i ng w at e r pr o of a n d a l s o
s m a l le r - s c a le , a n s t a i n -r e s i s t a nt a n d
outdoor bar needn’t Luna outdoor resistant to heat and
be any bigger than bar stool, f rost, as well as to
from £250,
a bedside t able. King Living expansion, scratches,
It can really be as d e e p a b r a s io n s ,
straightforward as chemical products
a well-placed niche and UV rays.
built into a brick
wall, or a simple Linear bar stool, Don’t forget to light the
£355, Muuto
freestanding space. Embracing outdoor h

livingetc.com 145
SOURCEBOOK

Azul tile collection:

Lisboa, Porto,
Cascais, Coimbra,
£8.40 per tile,
Everett and Blue

Adapt cabinetry,
from £4,600, Vlaze

lighting fixtures can establish your bar

as a designated area in the garden,
which is especia lly impor ta nt
i f you’ve gone for a sma l l one. A
well-placed outdoor sconce, lanterns, Portofino
wirework

PHOTOGRAPHS (ABOVE LEFT) INTERIORS BY AMIE CORLEY INTERIORS

string lights, or an oversized pendant lantern,
light hanging from an erected structure £69.99,
Ivyline
can bring an ethereal, dreamy quality Mediterraneo citrus
as the daylight disappears and you slip juicer, £599.95, Smeg
x Dolce & Gabbana
into those balmy summer
evenings. ‘Lighting is key
Bamboo
when it comes to a n bar set, £68,
outdoor bar area: it makes Rebecca Udall
for a functional space once
the sun has gone down but
also helps draw the
outdoors in,’ says Andrew. Yara
‘A well-lit outdoor entertaining sculptural
wine glasses,
space w ill feel fa r more £20 for 2,
connected to the indoors, even Oliver Bonas

if you’re not using it at the time.’

146 livingetc.com
 SOURCEBOOK

on the rise: exciting floral designers

E A C H I S S U E , W E C H AT T O A N I N D E P E N D E N T C R E AT I V E M A K I N G
A N I M PAC T – A N D S U G G E S T A F E W OT H E R S TO G E T TO K N OW

ROMY ST CLAIR, red. It’s nice to evolve – you have to, in in Peckham, and for the people we employ
S AG E F LOW E R S floristry. It’s so similar to fashion: people to be from Peckham, because floristry is
Founded more than five years ago and get bored of looking at the same thing.’ so white and middle class,’ says Romy.
growing from a Peckham pop-up into a Romy has found her lack of floristry ‘We have tried to broaden and diversify, in
fully fledged business, Sage Flowers is training to be beneficial: ‘[It’s] having an the hope that we make it more accessible.’
the florist of choice for top brands, as idea of what you like and trying to create Sage feels so accessible to customers, too.
FEATURE RORY ROBERTSON PHOTOGRAPHS (ROMY ST CLAIR) LAUWD;

well as those who wa nt its unique that from scratch, rather than working ‘Our other focus is to create interesting
bouquets delivered straight to their door. for someone whose style isn’t necessarily floristry that’s not too pretentious or
In that time, says Romy St Clair, who what you’re into, [which] does brainwash high-brow – floristry that doesn’t come
founded the brand with Iona Mathieson, you into thinking you need to do it that way.’ across as exclusive,’ says Romy.
Sage’s aesthetic has evolved. ‘When we At the heart of Sage is community. X
started it was quite loud, quite clashy, ‘We’re so passionate about being based sageflowers.co.uk; @sage.flowers
with loads of texture and different
heights and shapes – but that look has X
(FLORAL DISPLAYS) SAGE FLOWERS

become quite sat urated,’ she says.

T H E L I V I N G E TC T E A M R E C O M M E N D S
Instead, the brand is stripping things
back to a more minimalist palette, ‘still JRASIC FLORAL EVOLUTION HATTIE MOLLOY
Based between Dorset and Catherine Foxwell likes to Sure, Melbourne-based
maintaining the interesting texture and London, JRASIC’s aesthetic repurpose flowers, showing Hattie might be a little
heig ht elements a nd giv ing people is influenced by the Jurassic how to get the most out of out of our reach – but the
Coast. Many of the flowers every stem. She supports installation artist, object
unexpected combinations, but more founder Jessie Booth uses emerging florists from Black maker and creative director
with the selection of flowers we pair, as are homegrown, with and ethnic backgrounds via is our inspiration for quirky,
displays always informed a mentorship programme. sculptural arrangements.
opposed to just putting acid green next to by seasonality. @jrasic_ @floralevolution @hattiemolloy

livingetc.com 147
 the spotlight: what to buy now
AN EDIT OF THE SUMMER PIECES ON TEAM LIVINGE TC ’S SHOPPING LIST

TA B L E TA L K
If you’re blessed with a sunny garden, an
L I G H T TO U C H
out do or l iv i ng a re a i s wel l wor t h t he
O r ig i n a l B T C ’s new
investment for spring, summer and even
Blossom light is stylish
autumn (with the addition of a heater). Plus
enough to keep
brands have made it even easier to create one
indoors when the
that looks great – see Atkin and Thyme’s new
weather’s bad, but
collection, including this marble-effect coffee
a portable design
table that’s chic, weatherproof and under
and IP44 rating
£500. It’s also available as a bistro or side table.
means it’s ideal
Mason coffee table, £499, Atkin and Thyme
for taking alfresco dinners
late into the night, too.
Simply toggle the light level
to change the atmosphere;
ha nd ily, it r u ns for 20
hours on the lowest setting
once fully charged.
Blossom portable light
in Olive Green, £489,
Original BTC

T H E H E AT I S O N
Fire pits are an essential part of a British summer
garden, allowing us to linger long into the evening – and
there’s something rather romantic about them, too.
Morsø remains one of our favourite places for stylish
designs at reasonable prices – now all you need is some
marshmallows to toast. Ignis fire pit, £249, Morsø
P E R F EC T P OT S
Cox & Cox’s SS24 outdoor
collection is a d rea my
combination of soft, neutral
hues, natural materials and
s i m ple ye t s o p h i s t ic at e d
silhouettes. The new planters
are a fabulous alternative to
plastic pots and the fibre clay
FEATURE ELLEN FINCH

construction makes them easy

to move around to suit your
space. Two handmade footed
planters, £140, Cox & Cox

148 livingetc.com
 SOURCEBOOK

G L A S S AC T
No ga rden t able is complete
without coloured glassware, and
John Lewis & Partners is leaning
into that this year with its summer
LINING UP outdoor collection – think fun
Awning stripes are an instant mood lifter, so Rowen & Wren’s version has found its way
striped tumblers and textured
straight to our garden wish list. The Emerson collection – made up of sofa, bench and
bowls in vibrant colourways. We
armchair – features a solid teak frame with plump cushions in a jolly red stripe that
love the idea of dishing up a salad
somehow manages to feel contemporary and classic at the same time. It’s an instant
with a pair of rustic wooden salad
injection of character for your outdoor space. Emerson garden sofa, £1,998; armchair,
ser vers and this eye-catching
£948, both in Fine Red Awning Stripe, Rowen & Wren
orange number. Orangery footed
glass serve bowl, £20, John
Lewis & Partners

S O FA S P OT
We fell for the Plateau outdoor sofa as soon as we spotted it amongst
Aussie brand King Living’s new range – with a steel frame, teak or
ceramic surface and softly geometric cushions, plus a modularity that
means it can flex to fit your own garden needs, this is very smart seating
indeed. Plateau outdoor sofa package, from £2,290, King Living  h

S IZ Z L I N G S T Y L E
Love the idea of an outdoor kitchen but don’t have the
space? Fear not: Ethimo’s Phil, in collaboration with
Gordon Guillaumier, is the solution you need. Three
configurations – sink, induction hob and barbecue –
each with a handy worksurface means you can set up a
system that’s right for you. Price on request, Ethimo
SOURCEBOOK

C H O O S E YO U R H U E
Paint can transform your outdoor space as
much as it can indoors. Little Greene offers
its full range of shades in outdoor finishes,
delivering the same depth of colour but with
all the technical capabilities required from
an exterior paint. We love the warm tones of ART FORM
Rolling Fog. Rolling Fog 143 intelligent Sculptural lighting needn’t
masonry paint, £83 for 5ltr, Little Greene be limited to your house –
the new OTO wireless table
lamp from Fermob boasts
a characterful totem-like
shape and two light sources,
which can be used
independent of each other to
c r e at e t a s k o r a m b i e nt
lighting. OTO table lamp in
Red Ochre, £200, Fermob

TRUE STRIPES
Wooden garden furniture that’s seen better days often
needs little more than sanding down and re-treating to
restore it to full health – and of course, topping it off with
a jolly striped cushion won’t hurt, too. We love these
from the always effortlessly cool brand Toast. Cove
stripe chair cushions, £45 each, Toast

LO U N G E A R O U N D
Cane, rattan and wicker are all timeless materials for garden furniture, so when we spotted Neptune’s new collection
we knew it was an instant classic. The Longmeadow sunlounger, complete with woven cushion, feels classically
elegant – perfect for literally any scheme. Longmeadow sunlounger, £995, Neptune

150 livingetc.com
FUN TIMES
This summer, we’re saying no to plain old parasols and yes to the East London Parasol
Company, which makes vibrant patterned shades designed to stand out – and why not?
Bright orange and yellow colourways will inject sunshine into your garden even when
there’s none to be seen in the sky, and we’re big fans of the zigzag chevron pattern of the
Edmund, too. Edmund parasol in Green, £785, East London Parasol Company

F LO O R S H OW
Our new favourite source for
outdoor r ugs is T he Roost,
which has collaborated with
design studio Pelican House on
a range called Quilt. Each rug is
made f rom 10 0% rec ycled
plastic bottles and there are four
sizes and three colourways to
choose from. Quilt flatweave
rug in Jardin, from £772, The
Roost x Pelican House

N E W WAV E
Inspired by the
v isiona r y tex t ile
artist Karin Larsson,
t h i s h a nd-pr i nt e d
outdoor fabric feels
rem iniscent of a
f l ow i n g s t r e a m –
making it the perfect
organic reference for
garden furniture. In a
sunshine yellow hue,
it ’s also incredibly
happy-making – and D I N N E R DAT E
who doesn’t want that? Obviously, anything with Vincent Van Duysen’s name
Karin’s Portiere in attached to it is going to float our boat – aand so we were
Sunf lower, £175m, poring over the legendary designer’s collaboration with
Cathy Nordström Italian brand Molteni&C as soon as it hit our desks. It’s hard
to choose but our pick is the Fairmount table in solid teak.
Fairmount table, price on request, Molteni&C

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 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Shadow Play wallpaper in

Tiamat Blue. Woodwork
and ceiling in Tiamat paint

find your fit

A W E L L- C U R AT E D S C H E M E D O E S N ’ T
A LWAY S C O M E E A S I LY – U N L E S S ,
T H AT I S , YO U ’ R E D E C O R AT I N G
WITH G R AHAM & B ROWN

Picking a wallpaper is only part of the battle when it comes to

decorating. If you’ve ever struggled to match a beloved mural with
the perfect paint shade, or find curtains to finish off a colour
scheme, you’ll k now that a lot of thoug ht – a nd a good
understanding of how colour, texture and finish interact – goes
into a well-decorated space. Graham & Brown knows this too,
which is why the British heritage brand goes out of its way to
help customers find their perfect match – whether they’re
shopping for wallcoverings, window treatments or even bedding.

H O M E M AT C H
Think of Graham & Brown as a one-stop shop for all of your
decorating needs. For each of its exclusive wallpapers, the brand
offers four hero paint hues that complement your pattern of
choice, giving you all the tools you need to build a scheme –
whether you’re into bolder hues or something a little more
understated. And with those wallpaper designs and paint shades
available in curtain, blind and bedding form, there are multiple
ways to make a match.

Armando ALL IN THE MIX

wallpaper in Light Graham & Brown isn’t just like any other design brand –
Blue. Units in Cool
Britannia paint family-run, carbon neutral and with a history stretching back
more than 75 years, it’s a company we’ve long admired for its
heritage and sustainable credentials. But the brand’s biggest
selling point is its in-house design studio, which draws upon an
archive of over 50,000 pieces to create collections that blow us
away every season. It’s difficult to overstate the range of designs
on offer, from florals to geometrics, abstract to animal print –
and that range makes the brand’s dedication to matching its
products to find customers the perfect fit even more impressive.

FIND OUT MORE

Scan this QR code to shop Graham & Brown’s
huge range of wallcoverings, or visit the
website grahambrown.com/uk

152 livingetc.com
 L A P O F LU X U RY
If it feels like marble and emanates the
same sense of luxury as marble, well,
then it must be marble, right? Not
when it’s Purestone, a new material
created by new bathroom brand
Landmade for its tubs that is almost
half as weighty and more affordable
and sustainable. It has a smoothness
to it that invites you to soak for hours;
the various tub shapes are a mix of
classic and contemporary beauty. The
Leven, shown here, is clean-lined and
covetable, but also look out for the
monumental Torrens bath.

Leven bath,
Landmade.
Icona Deco
taps, Fantini

B U Y I N G S M A RT FO R K ITC H EN S A N D BAT H R O O M S , M A X I M I S I N G S M A L L
G A R D E N S PAC E S , T E R R I FI C T I L E S A N D W H Y TA D EL A K T P L A S T E R I S H OT

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IN THE KNOW

kitchens & bathrooms

THE L AT E S T L A U N C H E S , L O O K S A N D I D E A S E X C I T I N G U S N O W

BRIGHT IDEA
Part basin, part lamp, the
new Albume Lux – a
standout hybrid basin by
Antoniolupi – features a
ARTISTIC LICENCE
Commissioning an actual sculptor to create truly sculptural
base made from Flumood,
baths and basins? Pure genius. A collaboration between
a translucent resin that
Victoria + Albert Baths and British sculptor Sophie-Elizabeth
spreads low-level light
Thompson, whose work is celebrated for its organic, fluid
uniformly throughout the
forms, comprises of three pieces that play with light and
bathroom. Choose from
shadow, mimicking the surface of rippling water. In other
multiple combinations,
words, literal works of art for your bathroom. Bravo. Seros
including marble,
bath, from £3,330; Podium basin, from £1,650, and 55
lacquered Flumood and
basin, from £580, Victoria + Albert Baths
this on -trend claret
Melograno Cristalmood
colourway. Albume Lux
basin, £3,947, Antoniolupi
at West One Bathrooms

PLASTER ON
Replicate the textural energy of raw plaster
finishes, minus the dust, with Claybrook’s latest
tile drop. Marmorino is a robust porcelain
collection in five earthy tones that will bring
a sense of texture and movement to your
walls and floors. Outsized at 60x60cm (or
60x120cm by special order), minimal grout
lines help reinforce the raw plaster illusion.
Marmorino tiles, from £59.97sq m, Claybrook

B AT H E D
IN LIGHT
Lock down a healthy hit
of sunshine year-round
by adding this Sunshower
panel to your bathroom
line-up. Delivering a safe
dose of UV light (goggles
provided) and warming
infrared, the Sunshower
promises muscle-
FEATURE LINDA CLAYTON

relaxing warmth and

supports the natural
production of vitamin D.
The Sunshower System,
from £1,550, Bathroom
Design Studio London h

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R O YA L C A L L I N G
Seeking a fresh twist on the classic Shaker door? Plain English T O P TA P S
has nailed similarly timeless vibes with its artfully executed Pleasingly geometric
Kew bespoke cupboard collection. Inspired by the bustling and fun to touch,
downstairs kitchens at Kew Palace, which were locked away in these textural taps
1818 and left untouched for nearly 200 years, creative director from the Incanto
Katie Fontana has channelled Georgian craftsmanship and collection are among the
utilitarian ‘below stairs’ charm. The Kew Table forms a substantial latest launches from
centrepiece. The Kew kitchen, from £70,000, Plain English luxur y bathroom
designer Ripples. The
iconic crosshatch
d e s i g n , p i c t u re d ,
comes in a rainbow of
co nte m p o ra r y m et a llic
finishes, such as 24K Brushed
Gold, Rose Gold PVD and Polished
Chrome – perfect for adding an
ultra-modern touch to a scheme.
Incanto collection, from £591.60,
available at Ripples

HOSE DOWN
Caring for the planet never looked so good. Admittedly it’s only
a shower hose, but Hansgrohe’s new Designflex is dreamy. Made
from recycled plastic bottles, it comes in six colours and three
lengths and is compatible with standard hand showers. Designflex
shower hose, £64.44; Rainfinity hand shower, £206, Hansgrohe

N E X T- L E V E L
GRILLING
Cooking alfresco takes a
sophisticated turn with
Àtria, the first dedicated
outdoor collection by
Italian steel kitchen
PHOTOGRAPHS (ROYAL CALLING) ANTONY CROLLA

specialist Abimis.
Conceived by Studio
Delineo and Massimo
Rosati, it’s been refreshed
with new grills, wood-fired
ovens and mixology bar
options to get the party
started. Or you could
just sit back and admire
its fully customisable
designer looks with a clear
conscience. Made from
AISI 304 stainless steel,
Àtria is anti-bacterial, food-
safe and 100% recyclable.
Àtria outdoor kitchens,
from £4,200lin m, Abimis

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 SECRET ADDRESS BOOK

textured tiles
W H E N I T C O M E S T O K I T C H E N A N D B AT H R O O M T I L E S W I T H WA R M T H
A N D TA C T I L I T Y , T H I S B R A N D H A S I T D O W N T O A F I N E A R T

C A’ P I E T R A
There is an interplay of light that you only
get with a Ca’ Pietra tile. As a brand, it has
almost every shape, colour and finish you
could hope for, but within the mix are an
almost chalky limestone, a pleasingly
dappled brick bejmat and irreg ularly
hewn ceramics that invite shadows to
catch on them throughout the day. Its latest
launch is the Stucco collection, a richly
matt porcelain that has a sandiness to its
texture, a way of adding depth subtly and
sensitively to a wall or floor.

Stucco Porcelain
Textured tiles in
Mustard, from
£98sq m, Ca’ Pietra

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 D E S I G N F E AT U R E O F T H E M O M E N T

moroccan plaster
I N T E R I O R E X P E R T S A R E L O V I N G TA D E L A K T – A W A T E R P R O O F
WA L LC OV E R I N G W I T H A LU X E P O L I S H E D F I N I S H

FEATURE Keith Flanagan

1
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There are many types of plaster wall effects, but tadelakt, a rather
durable product that made waves over the past decade, is still on
the rise thanks to its luxurious lustre and water-resistant
qualities. Well suited for surfaces bound to get wet, like those in
bathrooms and kitchens, the method itself is ancient, arriving by
way of Morocco where it’s a staple in the traditional hammam.
What’s its secret sauce? Lime plaster is burnished with olive
oil soap to create a protective membrane unlike other plasters;
when properly sealed, tadelakt is both water and mildew
resistant. But it’s also an aesthetic choice: its signature shine adds
texture to walls, and unlike tile, it covers surfaces seamlessly,
making an entire space glow without a single grout line.
‘It’s most captivating feature is its waterproof nature, making
it perfect for moisture-prone areas, but its allure goes beyond
practicality,’ says Amy Morgenstern, co-founder of Brooklyn’s
Kamp Studios, which specialises in plaster installations. ‘The
real charm of tadelakt lies in its tactile sensation – a silky,
earthen, waxy feel that transforms ordinary surfaces into
extraordinary sensory experiences.’
According to Guy Valentine, a London-based clay and plaster
artisan, contemporary interiors of late often use imitation
plaster, a new breed of tadelakt-st yle products (such as
Germany’s Kreidezeit) created to work with modern building
materials. But whether old or new, the process is laborious, taking
artisans several days to complete (it’s best applied by a skilled
artisan with experience using tadelakt). But despite all the effort, 2
it can be worthwhile and beautiful – so much so that designers are
even using it beyond areas that need its extra resistance qualities.
‘If it’s done properly it’s super nice and smooth and has loads
of variations – you can see that it’s hand-applied, not a painted 3
finish,’ says Guy of the silky texture. ‘You just want to touch it.’ 
h

says founder Louisa Grey. But

1 S MOOTH the studio flexed tadelakt’s
O P E R AT O R potential even further across a
In this wet room by Brooklyn’s bespoke ‘ wave’ bathroom
GRT Architects, tadelakt vanity (with help from artisan
brings a sculptural look to Guy Valentine, who used a
gentle architectural lines thinner imitation by Tadelakt
surrounding the shower. ‘When London) to create a surface
incorporating tadelakt into that gently undulates.
your design, leverage its ability
to enhance spaces with organic PROJECT BY House of Grey
PHOTOGRAPHS (SMOOTH OPERATOR) JASON SCHMIDT; (GENTLE TOUCH)

shapes and curves,’ says Amy

Morgenstern of Kamp Studios, 3 SHINING
the specialist responsible for EXAMPLE
the plaster installation. ‘This Tadelakt may not be an obvious
MICHAEL SINCLAIR; (SHINING EXAMPLE) EDMUND DABNEY

approach was flawlessly choice for rooms that don’t

executed in this project, where require waterproofing –
the architecture found its compared to other plaster
perfect match in the smooth, products , the budget and
natural finish of tadelakt.’ labour are steep – but some
PROJECT BY GRT Architects designers embrace the effort in
order to get tadelakt’s subtle
shine, like the dark, dramatic
2 GENTLE walls in this London penthouse.
TO U CH ‘The penthouse has 180-degree
Channelling serenity in full double-height windows that
force, London’s House of Grey capture various types of light,’
chose tadelakt for its versatility says Annabel Harrison, founder
to complete this bathroom, of Fare Inc. ‘This architectural
first applying it across the choice allows the tadelakt to
shower and walls. ‘If you know exhibit a shim mering and
how to work with it, it can be glowing effect in different
used in many ways and we find spots throughout the day.’
it to be extremely adaptable,’ PROJECT by Fare Inc.

livingetc.com 159
 PHOTOGRAPHS (COLOUR STORY) CÉCILE TREAL; (AU NATURALE) UMU.LIFE

CO LO U R STO RY
The tadelakt spaces we see today may draw inspiration from hospitality, particularly the hammam, as homeowners continue to incorporate
wellness spaces at home. Hotels likeMarrakech’s El Fenn are both a source of inspiration as well as a template for the colourful palettes you
can achieve with tadelakt. ‘Colour is intrinsic to Morocco and so from the outset our palette was bold,’ says Howell James, the hotel’s
co-owner. Using natural or even synthetic pigments, specialists can tint tadelakt to create an array of colours, like the blue pictured here.
PROJECT BY El Fenn

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h

A U N AT U R A L E
Crafted by artist and designer Sven Bullaert, founder of Umu, this Belgian home is a haven of sustainable materials (think hemp, cob, willow
branches, crushed seashells). But when it came to Sven’s home gallery, where his ‘sfumato’ painting method is on display (art made with
many thin layers), the dynamic and layered nature of tadelakt fits perfectly within context. ‘To present the artwork, we tried several walls,
and it was clear that tadelakt was the best match as both sfumato and tadelakt bring “life” into a (almost) flat surface,’ says Sven.
PROJECT BY Sven Bullaert 
h

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PHOTOGRAPH MATTHEW WILLIAMS

S I M P LY F L O O R E D
Usually bathroom floors take on a different material than your walls and ceiling, but this bright waterfront aerie in NYC creates a whiteout.
Thanks to its water-resistant qualities, tadelakt was applied across all planes – walls, ceilings, the sinks’ surface and a daringly white floor
– without any seams. ‘A white tadelakt creates a clean, bright monolithic look,’ says Bill Caleo, co-founder of The Brooklyn Home Company.
‘It’s hard to get the same effect with tile or slabs of marble due to grout lines and seams.’
PROJECT BY The Brooklyn Home Company

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 S M A L L S PAC E S , B I G I D E A S

courtyard gardens
T H E S E C O M PAC T A N D C O N S T R A I N E D O U T D O O R P LOT S C A N F E E L L I K E
U R BAN OAS E S I F TH E RIG HT D E SIG N CH OICE S AR E MAD E

FEATURE Hugh Metcalf

A view of
water and
plants from
the home has
2 ADD TREES
‘Trees are a wonderful addition to a small garden
a calming, and can be used to bring structure and interest to
zen effect
the space. Many small or courtyard gardens are in
cities, so using a tree to create a sense of privacy can
be very effective, as well as making the space appear
larger, as the eye is naturally drawn upwards to
the tree’s canopy. Just one specimen tree placed in
the centre or on a boundary of the garden can
transform a small space almost instantly – and if
you can, consider lighting the tree from below, as it
will look spectacular when night falls.’
Nick Gough, co-founder of The
Distinctive Gardener

3 GO MINIMALIST
An explosion of colour can be really exciting in a
small garden, but it can feel rather overwhelming,
too. ‘I like playing with different shades of green for
a small garden and there are a myriad ways to
achieve a beautiful, dynamic mix even with this
limited range of colours. When using a minimalist
palette, I like focusing on including a diverse mix
of textures and shapes to help give more visual
interest to the garden.’
Kat Aul Cervoni, landscape designer and founder
of Staghorn NYC and The Cultivation by Kat

4 USE HARDSCAPES
PHOTOGRAPHS (1) REANNON SMITH; (5) PABLO VEIGA

‘When your back garden square footage is limited,

you can make the most of the space by opting
for a hardscape material for the f looring. This
can really help to blur the lines between the interior

1
and exterior of a property, creating a seamless
experience bet ween the t wo that can in turn
I N T R O D U C E WAT E R make the back garden feel much larger. Consider
‘Introducing water into this garden (designed by Akas Landscape Architecture) incorporating a seat wall built with hardscape
creates a tranquil courtyard. Looking at the fish swim below is great fun and materials that can double as planters. Defining the
creates connection with the living environment. The water and plants also have area but with a functional seating component can
a cooling effect in the courtyard and the rooms adjacent.’ make the space more useable.’
Ben Callery, founder of Ben Callery Architects Joe Raboine, vice president of design at Belgard

164 livingetc.com
 CLEVER

A beautifully
landscaped
courtyard
blurs the lines
of indoors
and outdoors

5 O P E N U P YO U R I N T E R I O R S
‘Removing close to a third of the roof, the built fabric of this former warehouse has been carved away to create a central landscaped
courtyard, with new windows and doors bringing sunshine, air and greenery deep into the plan. Relinquishing interior space in this way
helped to meet a brief that called not for more space, but for a more clearly defined and rational space. Opening the home up to the sky to
make way for a generous courtyard helped the clients to realise that they could truly put roots down in this space as their family grows.’
Ben Peake, design director at Carter Williamson Architects  h

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 C O U R T YA R D S S H O U L D P R OV I D E B E AU T I F U L V I E W S F R O M T H E H O U S E ,
B U T A L S O B E A P L AC E TO S I T A N D B E O U T I N N AT U R E
X

Clever use of
planting and
paving can
help to create
7 G R O W I N T E N S I V E LY
If you want to grow your own fruit and vegetables in
a feeling a small courtyard garden, take a different approach
of space
to rows of crops planted in beds. Layering edible
crops of different sizes is a more intensive – and
beautif ul – way to plant in a compact space.
‘Ga rdeners ca n instead consider a v isually-
appealing and space-efficient approach with a
cont a i ner or sma l l space layered pla nt i ng
incorporating elements like a small fruit shrub,
trellised runner beans, colourful Swiss chard,
radishes and trailing nasturtiums.’
Christina Chung, author of The Layered
Edible Garden

8 I N C L U D E B U I LT- I N S
Individual seats can be unwieldy in a courtyard
garden; instead, seating built into the landscape not
only saves space, but removes visual clutter. It’s also

PHOTOGRAPHS (6) CHARLOTTE ROWE GARDEN DESIGN; (10) RENATA FAIRHALL GARDEN DESIGNS
one of the best ways to introduce as many seats as
possible, which is ideal for entertaining outdoors.
‘When crafting small outdoor spaces, maximising
the spatial experience is paramount. Built-in
furniture not only optimises space efficiency but
also plays a pivotal role in sculpting the environment,
directing the gaze and enhancing the overall quality
of the space.’
Peter Miller, partner at Palette Architecture

9 THINK BIG
‘In small spaces, be it gardens or balconies, I’m a fan
of cramming in a few big statement plants. The
biggest mistake is admitting defeat and using only

6
tiny plants to fill your space. This is counterintuitive,
as it allows a view of the boundaries, so the eye can
B R E A K U P T H E S PAC E quickly calculate that the space is small. So instead,
‘With courtyards, the key is to maximise the space in terms of layout but also be bold and add a few bigger plants that bring
make the garden look bigger. One way that we do this is to break up the space character to your garden and blur the boundaries of
longitudinally using planted rills, hedging or paving as this slows the movement your space with volume and texture – you’ll be
of the eye down the space and fools the brain into thinking the garden is longer.’ surprised how they change the feel of the space.’
Charlotte Rowe, founder of Charlotte Rowe Garden Design Matthew Pottage, curator, RHS Garden Wisley

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Use corners
and walls
to maximise
greenery in
a courtyard

10 INTRODUCE GREEN BY ANY MEANS

‘A successful courtyard for me is always green and lush. I think courtyards should provide beautiful views from the house, but also be a
place to sit and have a drink, and be out in nature. The ground level of this courtyard was not able to be planted due to site constraints. We
built a raised angled garden bed in the corner of the courtyard that was big enough for a feature tree to get height, climbers to green up the
walls and cascading plants to soften the wall of the raised bed. From this one corner we were able to create so much green for the courtyard.’
Renata Fairhall, founder of Renata Fairhall Garden Designs

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 DA I LY I N S P I R AT I O N
AT L I V I N G E TC .CO M
PHOTOGRAPH MARY WADSWORTH

MORE STYLE , TRENDS AND INTERIORS INSIGHT

T H A N W E CO U L D E V E R F IT I N T H E M AG A Z I N E
S E E K I T C H E N A N D B AT H R O O M I D E A S
T O K I C K- S TA R T YO U R N E X T P R O J E C T
P LU S D E S I G N N E WS , E XP E R T A DV I C E ,
S H O P P I N G A N D T H E L AT E S T I N N O VAT I O N S

168 livingetc.com
 WOW FAC TO R
It’s the third year Design Centre, Chelsea
Harbour is putting on the WOW!house
exhibition, and as the fantastic second year
topped the amazing first year we can only
speculate how wonderful this will be. Our
favourite designers pair with incredible
brands to create installations-as-rooms.
And with no real client to answer to, their
imaginations run wild. Always brilliant, this
year sees creatives like Sophie Ashby,
Ken Fulk and Veere Grenney get in on the
action. You’ll leave feeling inspired by the
mastery at work. From 4 June - 4 July;
tickets at dcch.co.uk

From last year’s

WOW!house, and the
collaboration between
Barlow & Barlow
and Drummonds

R ED - H OT R E S O RTS W H E R E V I S IT S TO T H E S PA A R E A M U S T, A S T Y L E- L E D
G U I D E TO B ER LI N A N D T H E D E S I G N S T U D I O O N O U R R A DA R R I G H T N OW

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H OT E L
H OT L I S T
With beachside access or stunning nature views – and always a spa
– these tranquil summer destinations are just the (plane) ticket
 LIFESTYLE

Solar de Vila Meã, Etéreo, R iviera Maya,

Barcelos, Portugal Mexico
IN A SENTENCE IN A SENTENCE
An immaculately finished hotel with a dreamy, romantic style, This luxury resort delivers everything you could want from a
nested in the serene Portuguese countryside – what more could high-summer holiday – be it a cabana on its private white sand
you want from your summer holiday stay? beach or cocktails delivered to your poolside lounger.

DESIG N DOWN LOAD DESIG N DOWN LOAD

FEATURE ELLEN FINCH PHOTOGRAPHS (MAIN IMAGE AND SOLAR

As the creative force behind the operation, Lisbon-based Joana The architecture of this resort is interesting – a series of coral
Aranha studio drew on the landscape of northern Portugal in a stone structures with modern Mayan references. Inside, you’ll
big way for the hotel’s interiors: think panoramic murals depicting also spot work on display from Mexican artists, including
romantic natural vistas, paired with dainty furniture pieces and intricate wooden lattice screens by Manuel Felguérez.
DE VILA MEÃ) PEDRO FERREIRA PHOTOGRAPHY

an elegant colour scheme. There’s a real sense of romance to it all.

ON THE MENU
ON THE MENU Take a tour of Yucatan through food at the resort’s restaurants:
The interior of on-site Barro Restaurant is all elevated terracotta, Itzam for elevated Mexican cuisine, Che Che for a Japanese-
quite literally – there are terracotta pots hanging from the ceiling Mexican fusion, and El Changarro for fresh fish served beachside.
– and the food feels both refined and rustic to match, offering
regional dishes and an impressively curated wine list. S PA S P OT
The architecture of the spa is as impressive as the treatments: the
S PA S P OT soaking pool is set against a curved wall and illuminated by a
Admire the lush surroundings in the outdoor pool before heading round skylight. And those treatments? Think Mayan healing
to the spa, where massages and holistic treatments are on offer. crystals, ocean sound baths and clay wraps infused with herbs. h

livingetc.com 171
LIFESTYLE

The Residence Douz, Alila Kothaifaru

Tunisia Maldives
IN A SENTENCE IN A SENTENCE
This desert spot, set in 14 hectares of sand dunes and palm trees, Set on a private island in Raa Atoll, only reachable by seaplane,
delivers escapism in spades – and a chance to ground yourself in this resort offers a true immersion in a slower pace of life.
Tunisian traditions and crafts.
DESIG N DOWN LOAD
DESIG N DOWN LOAD Both beachfront and overwater villas are designed to maximise
There’s a warmth to the interiors at this resort; the villas’ designs the views. At the former, relax in a bath set on the edge of a lush
PHOTOGRAPHS (THE RESIDENCE DOUZ) NICOLAS FAUQUÉ;

draw from local aesthetics and feature pieces from Tunisian garden of ferns and other tropical plants; at the latter, enjoy
sculptors and painters, as well as handcrafted furnishings. expansive views of the ocean thanks to wall-to-wall glazing.
(BATHROOM, ALILA KOTHAIFARU) HASSAN ISHAN

IN THE GROUNDS HOTEL HIG H LIG HT

Yes, you’re here to relax – but on those occasions you can peel The Shack, a private sand cay reachable only by traditional dhoni,
yourself off of your sun lounger, you can take advantage of which offers a dining experience like no other – choose between a
excursions ranging from visits to local villages to luxury camping. four-hour day trip with a picnic-style lunch, or an evening
Also check out the Mud House, a cultural hub that holds experience with a sunset barbecue, cooked by a private chef.
workshops on ancient crafts and traditional Tunisian practices.
S PA S P OT
S PA S P OT The f loor-to-ceiling windows in the treatment suites are a
The Spa by Clarins has a hammam, treatment and scrub rooms, necessity at the spa, set as it is in the treetops – and treatments tie
an indoor pool and Moorish baths; treatments incorporate into the surroundings, drawing on natural ingredients, from its
indigenous ingredients such as ghassoul clay and beldi soap. fresh coconut scrub to its herbal compress massage. Sign us up…

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LIFESTYLE

The James-Simon-
Galerie, a highlight
of Museum Island

S E E YO U I N
BERLIN
It may be a city that never sleeps but that doesn’t mean all the best things happen at night

GO FOR… S L E E P AT…
The culture. Fun fact: Berlin has more museums (170) than it The Telegraphenamt, right by Museum Island. It’s full of blush
has rainy days in a year (106). So even if you happen to be there pinks, statement marbles and plush-yet-pared back decor. A
on one of the 106, there will still be plenty for you to do. calming haven in the middle of a busy city.
Historically significant places like the Jewish Museum sit
near artistic troves to rival the Louvre, like the James-Simon- E AT AT…
Galerie, pictured, designed by David Chipperfield Architects. Bar Normal – and yes, the name is ironic. It’s a wine bar-style
PHOTOGRAPH ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

restaurant with a very inspired chef who brings charred flavours

S TAY F O R … to many an ingredient – at the time of writing, that includes panko
It would be remiss not to mention the nightlife, as it’s perhaps fried cauliflower with parsnip sauce, and grilled octopus with red
what Berlin is most famous for. Even if you don’t fancy braving peppers, bacon and a pineapple chimichurri. A must-visit.
the queues at Berghain, this is still a city that stays open late
and has no regrets about it. The Neukölln neighbourhood is a DON’T MISS…
good place to start – Tier, with its plump sofas and 1970s Hallesches Haus, 270 square metres of pure lifestyle perfection.
loucheness, is a charming cocktail bar. Cafe/store/event space. Modernist decor heaven.

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NEX T BIG THING

Our favourite designers pick a name on their radar that ought to be on yours, too. This month:
interior designer Hollie Bowden introduces a London-based furniture and lighting studio

Furniture and
lighting designer
LS GOMMA

SCULPTUR AL BEAUT Y XR mesh chair, £3,500;

I discovered LS GOMMA’s account on Instagram in 2021 and Issa floor lamp, £2,775;
Nite Lite, £950
since then I have been admiring his work as well as subsequently
seeing it pop up in projects. I love the studio’s fresh approach to
objects – it’s deceptively simple. The dripping resin coating over
FEATURE RODDY CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHS (ISSA FLOOR LAMP)
JAMES ARI KING; (XR MESH CHAIR) RICHARD ROUND-TURNER

puckered mesh forms is so seductive, and the sleek metal bases of

the lamps enhance their sculptural quality. Each piece has a
wonderfully dense and strange materiality. The shapes and
textures of the lamps are unique: I like how they balance the
mix of technology and craft. The lamps and vases fit well into
our own interior projects: they have a playful elegance that
instantly draws your eye. While I’ve been putting them
forward to clients in presentations, I’d actually love one
for my own house! It’s also been compelling to see the
studio’s focused take on lighting, as I admire it when
designers are on a mission with a core idea that they
develop over a long time, not getting distracted by
the f leeting trends that can be dominating the
industry at any particular moment. lsgomma.net

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