Discipline + Revolt

When I heard of Andrée Putman passing last month, it brought to mind my first knowledge of her work.  Designing Morgans in 1984 (the first American boutique style hotel), she introduced us to a sophisticated sober elegance that was both serene and emotionally evocative. Minimal but never spare.  These were the early days of my design life, and Putman's celebrated work was a beacon extolling the virtue of design principles + theory, over tricks + trend.  As she noted "the perfect balance between discipline and revolt."  For me she has always been the model design citizen........ inspired and inspiring.  x x

Photograph leaning, Rodney Graham

To anchor and compose the unlikely, but functionally practical flat screen placement we created a stealth media unit, spanning the architecture window bay.

"Of course style and money have nothing to do with each other, good design is pure and simple, and I am interested in that family of things that will not date."  Andrée Putman 1925-2013.

Putman Style

Staying In

Movies can take us to another place.  So when designing this home cinema we wanted the space to initiate that transcendence and provide a provocative experience, vastly different than the rest of the home.  A (dark blue) mono chromatic colour scheme absorbs light (from reflecting back to the screen) and the fabric wall panels provide acoustical balance.  Comfort was paramount and resulted in our decision use ultra lounge seating in soft leather, from B+B Italia. Cashmere embroidered throws and plush pillows allow everyone to get nested.  Staying in to enjoy a film feels a lot like going out, only better........ plus there's a bar.

We worked with Millson Media to specify and install the cinema technology. Project construction and millwork were managed by Heron Construction.

Home Fires

The Fireplace has long been a central organizing feature of home design, originally out of necessity and more recently out of desire. Currently the kitchen maybe seen as the heart of most homes, but historically it was the hearth. Even the most modern of homes celebrate the fireplace as a dominant  focal point and gathering place. Fire is one of the classic elements of the earth, and we relate to it on a primal level.

Todays hearths come in all manner of style and fuel type.  In these projects we've incorporated a variety of fire boxes, from traditional wood burning to alternative fuel units ( which do not require venting).   We've also designed custom gas burner units to better suit our design intentions when standard product would not.  Working often with Vancouver Gas Fireplace to provide both depth of product and industry expertise.  The variety of great fireplace options available make designing any room around this archetypal symbol of home, all the more accessible and diverse.

Media Savvy

There is a kind of fear factor that can happen with the mere mention of integrated home technologies.   Working with a firm that can alleviate this fear of the unknown, is critical in the development of a fully functional residence.  One firm we've enlisted to demystify home operating systems for our clients, is Millson Technologies.  For us all technologies have to be seamlessly united with the interior design, plus controls need to be simple and intuitive for our clients.  A well designed infrastructure to operate, lighting, window coverings, audio and visual components, creates the invisible luxury of uncomplicated living.  Millson provided this expertise for a recent project we designed.  Pictured here, the family room (home cinema), is flanked on one side by custom walnut millwork built by Soma Furniture.  It incorporates both audio and visual components.  One touch multiple functions now playing!

Dog's Life

Man's best friend plays a central role in so my of our lives, it's only natural that the well considered home also account for their comfort and well being.  When designing to include pets in the occupant mix, we select forgiving finishes to minimize stress; for these treasured family members and their guardians.  My own pampered pooch (Pierre) regards our sofa, as his domain, (hence the drool proof velvet).  In some cases specific features can be included to facilitate their care.   A favourite example is the dog shower we designed tucked around the corner, in this modern laundry / mud room.

The cabinets provide ample storage, food, leashes, toys, and extra towels, are all hidden away.  A quartz counter and utility sink make for easy clean up and the standing shower is perfect (warm) after a run on the beach.  Then it's cookies and a lazy nap in front of the fire. It's a very good life.

Sommelier

One of the great pleasures in life is the enjoyment of wine.  Almost every project we design incorporates some accommodation for the storage and protection of it.  Cellars can be large or small, but in all cases require temperature control and fittings to display this consumable collectible.  Even for the well versed the stocking of a cellar can be a daunting task.  Many of our clients have turned to House Wine to assist in the procurement of wine that best suits their tastes and needs.  House Wine dispenses expert consultation services to improve everyones appreciation and enjoyment, of this history rich product.  Subscribe to their newsletter to stay well informed. 

The cellars pictured here are from various Robert Bailey Interiors projects.  "Come quickly, I am tasting stars"..... Dom Perignon.  Tis the season!