Behind the Design: Stefania Skrabak of Art Home Garden


Designer Spotlight: Stefania Skrabak of Art Home Garden


How did you get where you are today? 
I started as a fashion designer in NYC. Hating how fashion was not hands-on with the client/customer, I yearned for a change. Interior design was something I have always wanted to pursue, especially with my “construction” background,  but in a way,  it kind of fell into my lap, and in a way, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do.
I got my first break when I walked into a random NYC restaurant and told them that they needed my help. I somehow convinced the owner to hire me saying that if they liked what I did, they could keep it, and if they didn’t, I would change it back. Needless to say, it worked.
My motto remains the same to this day. We are 100% homeowner/client-focused. A homeowner can return pretty much anything, and we can always change a space back to the way it was originally, although no one has ever asked.
Art Home Garden Office
Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden
AHG believes that home decor, art and landscape manifest deep personal expression. How does your firm strive to understand a client’s needs? 
It’s always about the client and not at all about us being designers. I pride myself on working as hard as I can in learning the client’s needs. I am more than happy to keep redesigning until the homeowner and I discover what they like and how they want to live. My portfolio proves that it’s not about us  – all of our designs are completely different and unique.
In your opinion, how does design affect health & wellness? 
When we create a story/space around a person’s needs and desires, they inevitably manifest what they are looking for. We just set the stage – they do the rest.

Art Home Garden

Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden
How do you stay current and source interesting, new-to-market products and materials to incorporate in your designs? 
I live in NYC – it’s super easy because there is constant inspiration everywhere.
Are there certain colors and materials you’re particularly into right now? me personally or my homeowners?
I’m always into what I am designing in the moment. We are doing a super luxurious apartment in Manhattan that is all about silver, gold, grey, ivory, teal, velvet and chenille…OMG! Starting in a few weeks, we are doing a rustic all-wood country house, so upcoming, it will be all about brown, taupes, whites, wood, linen, fur and flannel!

Art Home Garden

Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden
How does designing make you feel? 
It’s my everything! I can not express enough the joy and happiness I feel when I get to create a space. We do everything from the nuts and bolts up. I could never be a designer that simply adds splash pillows. I love building a space with my team, creating a story, and helping our homeowners live their dreams.
Can you describe a day in the life as Stefania? 
OMG, insanity, but amazing! A normal work day is from 7AM – 1AM.  It involves everything from designing, to hanging up light fixtures, to painting walls. I am 100% part of my team and will never ask a team member to do what I wouldn’t do.

Art Home Garden

Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden
What’s the most rewarding part of completing a project?
The homeowners being happy and supporting my team to be their best.
You have a dynamic team – how are your operational and design tasks delegated?
Delegated usually by me first, and then, equal parts my mom, Elzbieta Skrabak, and my boyfriend, Joshua Byer. Then, to the team member who is the best  “fit” for the task at hand. No one has only one task – we heavily blur the lines between design and build. My mom and my boyfriend are my go to’s.  “How many hands do you think I have?” my boyfriend always asks. My answer is always “12”. They not only keep my vision going, but they keep everyone motivated on a timeline.

Art Home Garden

Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden
What are some strategic tactics to maintain healthy vendor relationships?
Asking questions!

Art Home Garden

Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden
Why did you join Ivy?
Honestly, it was totally spontaneous off of a Facebook Ad (I know, don’t judge). However, joining Ivy was the best decision I have made this year in regards to the business end of AHG.
How has Ivy helped streamline your workflow?
It’s been a great tool for modernizing our invoicing and keeping the clients up to date.
What’s an Ivy feature you can’t live without?
The Ivy team, hands down. Their customer service is beyond exceptional!
Art Home Garden
Photo courtesy of Art Home Garden

Contact Art Home Garden:

W: http://www.arthomegarden.com/

P: 917-907-0624

E: info@ArtHomeGarden.com

@arthomegarden

Floyd: The Indispensable Source for Indisposeable Furniture

 

Floyd, founded by Kyle Hoff and Alex O’Dell, produces furniture for city living. Think good design, easy purchase & assembly, long-lasting quality, and last but not least, free shipping. Floyd changes the way we think about furniture – rather than individual pieces being the staple of the home, the customer is the priority, and the furniture moves and adapts with the customer based on their ever-changing home & family dynamics and moves.

Here, Floyd shares their founding story, the influence of Detroit, and their mission to eliminate disposable furniture.

Photography courtesty of Floyd


Floyd was founded by Kyle Hoff & Alex O’Dell back in 2013 – what was the “aha” moment motivating the duo to launch Floyd with a Kickstarter campaign?
Kyle and Alex met when working on another project in Detroit. Kyle, an architect by training, had the design for the original Floyd Leg in his room. He and Alex began talking about the design and the possibilities of re-thinking traditional furniture. They began with a Kickstarter so they could see if the idea had the proverbial legs to jump-start their vision. Setting out to raise $18,000 to produce 100 sets of Floyd Legs, the “aha” moment definitely came when the goal was reached within the first 24 hours.

Floyd Founders

How exactly is Floyd a new kind of furniture company, making furniture for “city living”?
Floyd makes furniture for the way people live today. Furniture made to be a part of your life and to go where you go, not just used for a year and thrown out. Floyd’s all about good design, lasting quality, ease of purchase and assembly – and did we mention free shipping 🙂 ?

Floyd’s office/showroom is based in the Corktown neighborhood of Detroit. How has the city of Detroit influenced Floyd’s design and brand vision?
The City of Detroit has an amazing history of innovation — from the Model T to Motown, the spirit of creating something new and breaking barriers is something we feel living and working in the city everyday. In addition, Detroit is the home to a long-lasting manufacturing hub that we have the privilege to tap into.

Floyd Detroit

Tell us about your production process…
Our products are manufactured with partners in the Great Lakes Region. Laser-cut bent steel in Akron. Wood production in mid-Michigan. Powder-coating right here in Detroit.

Millennials are known to be the “moving generation” – according to your research, the average millennial stays in an apartment for 9-12 months before packing up and moving again. How have these findings impacted your designs?

We make furniture that is easy to move — that is meant to move with you. Our designs can change to whatever size they need to be.

Floyd Bench

Based on your knowledge of the industry, what are some modern day issues impacting the furniture design industry?
More than half of the world population is living in cities. The furniture industry has failed to adapt to changing living patterns, shifts in consumer preferences, and technology. The industry is operating on a broken model: Dominant big box stores with too many choices have poor online experiences, products that aren’t designed for shipping, which are also challenging to assemble, difficult to return, and ultimately, destined for the landfill.

We believe that disposable furniture is a problem worth solving!

What are some of your best-sellers?
The Floyd Platform Bed and The Utility Set — the two most essential apartment staples!

Floyd Utility Set

How does Floyd typically work with interior designers?
Floyd doesn’t directly work with interior designers at this point but we do believe that our designs are great for designers to use, as they can fit in many different types of spaces with different styles.

Why would an interior designer want to furnish a residential or commercial space with Floyd designs?
Floyd provides adaptability — our products can be whatever you need them to be, and then change if you need them to! A choice of surface can really give off a personality as well 🙂 .

Floyd Shelf

What are Floyd’s goals for 2017?
We are growing quickly and on our way to being the indispensable source of indisposeable furniture for the world!

Floyd Legs


Contact Info:

W: https://floyddetroit.com/

E: hello@floyddetroit.com

@floyddetroit

New Orleans Designers We Admire

Curtis Herring Interior Design – Curtis Herring

curtisherring.com

Herring has designed the interiors of some of the most popular and award winning restaurants in the New Orleans area. His work includes beautiful spaces such as Willa Jean in the Central Business District, Shaya on Magazine Street, and Borgne – just to name a few. His work is outstanding, incorporating a common theme in order to create a cohesive dining and living experience.

Graci Interiors – Christina & Chad Graci

graciinteriors.com

Christina along with her brother Chad run the design firm Graci Interiors, based in New Orleans, LA. With her previous experience working at various design firms in New York City, Christina returned to New Orleans to live and create her own business. Graci describes her style as “classic traditional but fresh and modern,” incorporating classic New Orleans style with practical, timeless pieces.

KHB Interiors – Kelly Brown

khbinteriors.com

Kelly Brown is a talented designer who has a knack for incorporating the antique New Orleans charm with the newer, updated design trends. She feels the client-designer experience is of utmost importance, and makes sure to make her projects personal and practical. At age 18, Brown opened her own successful interior retail business and then continued on to earn degrees in Business and Interior Design. KHB Interiors creates luxurious, comfortable spaces with a mix of contemporary and elegant design.

Logan Killen Interiors – Katie Logan Leblanc & Jensen Killen

logankilleninteriors.com

Long-time friends Katie Logan Leblanc and Jensen Killen decided to join forces and start a design company in 2012. Recently, their work has been featured in Lonny Magazine, Country Living, Design*Sponge and Vogue online, showcasing their natural talent for designing interior spaces that look and feel effortless, with an eclectic twist. Logan Killen will be launching their storefront of curated home furnishings, Sunday Shop, in fall of 2016 on the boutique-filled Magazine Street in New Orleans.

Martin-Lemaire Interiors – Matthew Martin & George Lemaire

martin-lemaire.com

Partners Matthew Martin and George Lemaire have established their business as an internationally-recognized design firm, which specializes in both commercial and residential interior design. Martin-Lemaire Interiors has also completed various projects in Miami and Fort Lauderdale involving architectural, renovation, as well as redecoration design.

Melissa Rufty Design Studio – Melissa Rufty

melissarufty.com

Melissa Rufty based in New Orleans, Louisiana, has worked on a variety of projects from new client homes to old, antiquated Louisiana estates – one of which was previously styled in the 80’s by Mark Hampton and published in Architectural Digest. Rufty’s work has also been featured in HouseBeautiful, ELLE DecorSouthern Living and was named as one of 2013’s “One To Watch” by Architectural Digest. Rufty draws her inspiration from her clients, hoping to create dynamic spaces that tell a story, incorporating traditional style with a southern, eclectic feel. The designer also owns Malachite Home, an internationally-known store filled with high-end antiques, artwork and vintage pieces.

Moss Manor – Sarah Moss

sarahjamesmoss.com

Principal designer, Sarah Moss, began Moss Manor – an online boutique of home furnishings and accents – with the goal of providing her clients easy access to affordable and stylish home decor. Moss has established her style and sense of design through her many travels throughout Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States. Her goal is to provide a personal experience for her clients, handpicking furnishings and styles in order to tailor to each individual client project.

Shaun Smith Home – Shaun Smith

shaunsmithhome.com

In 2015, Shaun was named a Next Wave designer for HouseBeautiful Magazine, featuring his incredibly clean, curated home looks and style. Shaun Smith Home, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a full service interior design firm as well as a home-decor shop filled with a wonderful collection of beautiful furnishings and classic, stylish goods.

Tanga Winstead – Tanga Winstead

tangawinstead.com

Designer Tanga Winstead started her career in the design world earning her Associates Degree in Fashion Design from the American College in London, UK. She later moved to New Orleans and found her talent in interior design, taking inspiration from the city’s unique culture, eclectic people, and eccentric way of life. Winstead has had over 10 years of experience in the field, also working for Villa Vici, a high-end design showroom in the Uptown New Orleans area.

Villa Vici – Vikki Leftwich

villavici-furniture.com

Owner of New Orleans high-end home decor boutique Villa Vici, Vikki Leftwich has a focus on bringing elegance and modernity to residential spaces. She describes her unique style as “a minimalist approach to mixing the old with the new.” Leftwich’s spaces feature clean, crisp lines and white, airy open living areas.

Detroit Designers We Admire

 

Adams Creative Consulting – Michelle Adams

adamscreativeconsulting.com

Michelle Adams’ beautiful style has been featured in countless editorials and magazines, such as domino, Traditional Home, Vogue, One Kings Lane and The New York Times. Adams’ background and experience as cofounder of Lonny Magazine and Editor-in-chief at domino has taken her around the world, inspiring her style and allowing her to discover new trends that can be brought into her home designs. Michelle’s contemporary redesign of her Michigan home in Ann Arbor was featured in HouseBeautiful, showing off her design style that feels effortless yet timeless.

Armina Interiors – Armina Kasprowicz

arminainteriors.com

Armina Kasprowicz based in the Metro Detroit area has worked on primarily large-scale residential projects, incorporating design and architectural inspiration from her travels. Kasprowicz studied graphic design and interior design prior to launching her own design firm in 2008. Her goal is to create functional and livable spaces that fit seamlessly into one’s lifestyle.

Ellwood Interiors – Amanda Sinistaj

ellwoodinteriors.com

Amanda Sinistaj is a graduate of Michigan State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts and is now a FIDER accredited Interior Designer. Recently, Sinistaj started her own design firm, Ellwood Interiors, which has worked on many large and small scale projects. Amanda was featured on the Food Network show “Food Court Wars” where she was asked to help remodel some of the featured kitchens.

reDesign home – Alessia Loffredo & Sarah Coscarelli

redesignhomellc.com

reDesign home stemmed from a close friendship between Alessia Loffredo and Sarah Coscarelli. 15 years ago, both Loffredo and Coscarelli were working at the same design firm and realized they worked well together. Their mutual passion for design and their ease of communication with each other as well as their clients has fostered a successful business, incorporating various styles and perspectives into decorating living spaces.

Rariden Schumacher Mio – Rosemary Rariden Cotter, Jill Schumacher, & Michelle Mio

rsminteriors.com

Designers Rosemary Rariden Cotter, Jill Schumacher, and Michelle Mio have completed a large range of successful projects, incorporating their own unique ideas and styles to create exquisite, comfortable homes and living spaces. All with expansive design histories, the designers of RSM Interiors work to incorporate timeless design and functionality into any living space. The team has completed projects not only in the Detroit area, but also in New York City, Chicago, Paris, with some of their work featured on HGTV.

Serba Interiors – Kevin Serba

serbainteriors.com

Kevin Serba is the Principal Designer and Owner of Serba Interiors, a metro-Detroit based Interior Design firm specializing in versatility and authenticity for commercial and residential spaces. Serba has over 30 years of experience in the design world – his portfolio ranges from smaller-scale projects to larger-scale estates, from Detroit to the island of Montserrat.

Sharon Kory Interiors – Sharon Kory

sharonkoryinteriors.com

Sharon Kory Interiors sees design as an equal collaboration between the client and the designer – leading to innovative and inspiring homes and interiors. The team has over a 15+ year background in the field and use their ideas to work on a range of successful projects, both commercial and residential. The Detroit Home Design Awards announced Sharon Kory Interiors as a 2016 winner, featuring the creative use of an art collection in an interior.

 

Los Angeles Designers We Admire

 

30 Collins – Nicole Heininger & David Corbin

30collins.com

As most of their design portfolio consists of high-end retail spaces, Nicole Heininger and David Corbin of 30 Collins design studio, really know how to make a space make a lasting impression. Their homes, like their retail spaces, are just as elegant as they are glamorous, with touches of silk and gold finishings, showcasing what it feels like to live in Hollywood.

Amber Interiors – Amber Lewis

amberinteriordesign.com

Being born and raised in Malibu, CA has influenced Amber’s visions to incorporate what it means to live in California: comfort, beauty, and effortlessly exciting are just a few themes that you will find in all of her designs. Whether she is designing homes or posting to her blog, Amber Interiors’ style and infectious brightness is sure to inspire.

Ames Ingham – Ames Ingham

amesingham.com

Ames Ingham began her career as an interior designer after co-founding a theatre company for a decade. Her love for design and understanding of the importance of good illumination has sparked the creation of a home lighting line. Each piece is crafted by local Los Angeles artisans and add an elegant element to her designed spaces.

Amy Sklar Design – Amy Sklar

sklardesign.com

Vibrant, welcoming, and above all else, comfortable, are just a few of our favorite things when it comes to home decor, and Amy Sklar really knows how to bring all of these aspects in to a home interior. Her feminine take on the California abode brings a fresh look to her client’s homes.

Becki Owens – Becki Owens

beckiowens.com

Beginning her career designing model homes for large developments, Becki Owens perfected the art of staging a space that is inviting and comfortable. Her clean, and elegant designs come into full effect in her line of handmade textiles and wallpaper which adds an artful touch to every room.

Brown Design Group – Ryan Brown

browndesigninc.com

Brown Design Group is a Southern California interior design firm who implements the contemporary mid-century aesthetic we love without an overly bohemian or feminine feel. Whether BDG is revamping a residential or commercial space, their style, sophistication and experience is never neglected.

Burnham Designs – Betsy Burnham

burnhamdesign.com

“Done not overdone” is Burnham Designs’ mission, delivering elegant yet edgy design to clients all over Southern California. Betsy Burnham and her team bring a youthful and eclectic style that has been recognized in both the interior design and fashion industry. Betsy’s interior design has been featured in HouseBeautiful, as well as other respected design publications.

Chad McPhail Design – Chad McPhail

chadmcphaildesign.com

After graduating from Parson’s School of Design and ten years of experience in the high-end design world, Chad McPhail opened his own design firm, Chad McPhail Design. Chad’s firm works on both commercial and residential projects, incorporating color, texture, light and sophistication into every project, creating impressive and welcoming spaces.

Commune Design – Roman Alonso, Steven Johanknecht, Pamela & Ramin Shamshiri

communedesign.com

Commune Design is a collective of acclaimed designers from around the world who have come together to follow their passion for interior design, architecture, and brand management for residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. The high level of creativity that comes when working with a range of different people, from various background is eminent in their designs. The results of their collaborative efforts are unique and artistic environments that bring together the best design trends from around the globe.

Consort Design – Mat Sanders & Brandon Quattrone

consort-design.com

Celebrity and fashionista favorites Mat Sanders and Brandon Quattrone co-founded Consort Design to demonstrate exactly how to create a trend-driven environment. Each project they have been a part of, whether it be for Jessica Alba, guitarist Joe Trohman, or the Revolve Social Club showroom, is pure perfection – from the paint color and custom finishings, to the coffee table books and candles, they never miss a detail.

Dex Studio – Glen Bell

studiodex.com

Since 1999, Venice-based Dex Studio has been creating environments for their clients that emulate the diverse and dynamic communities surrounding each individual project. Principal designer Glen Bell brings tailored craftsmanship into every project, combining the elements of sophisticated authenticity with a progressive vision.

Early Work – Mimi Jung & Brian Hurewitz

earlyworkstudio.com

Mimi Jung and Brian Hurewitz are branding masterminds when it comes to space planning and creating custom furniture and fixtures. Formerly Brook&Lyn, Early Work has designed the breathtaking showrooms and offices of Everlane in San Francisco, Bassike in Venice, and General Assembly in Atlanta. Early Work truly understands the beauty in simplistic design.

Emily Henderson Design – Emily Henderson

styledbyemilyhenderson.com

From residential remodels, to lifestyle pick me ups, Emily Henderson Design is a one-stop-shop for design inspiration. Emily Henderson and her team of creative confidants truly embody what it means to live with style in Hollywood. Henderson is New York Times Bestselling author of STYLED, TV personality, as well as founder of her own style blog.

FORM Design Studio – Rafael Kalichstein & Joshua Rose

form-designstudio.com

Joshua Rose and Rafael Kalichstein use their well-manicured design vision along with their training in Feng Shui to transform residential, commercial and hospitality spaces worldwide. FORM’s designs reflect their mission, that a space should speak for itself, and it is the designer’s job to listen and create a harmonious environment where form follows function.

Giannetti Home – Steve & Brooke Gianetti

giannettiarchitects.com

A classic design love story, Giannetti Home is not only the marriage of architecture and interior design, but also a story of a husband and wife. Steve & Brooke Giannetti founded their firm in 1994 and have taken their designs around the world. Blogs, books, and even a brick and mortar store (which doubles as their studio) embodies their new-age take on traditional design.

House of Honey – Tamara Honey

houseofhoney.com

House of Honey is boutique design studio that combines everyones favorite elements of the interior design world: glamour, personality, and unparalleled creativity. Designing homes and hospitality spaces around the Los Angeles area, Tamara Honey has been recognized by countless publications for her impeccable style and collection of unique pieces.

Julia Wong Designs – Julia Wong

juliawongdesigns.com

Every project of Julia Wong’s – whether it’s interior or fashion design, merchandising, or manufacturing – is executed with a sense of class and worldliness. Having spent extended periods of time in Japan, London, and Los Angeles, Julia incorporates the best elements from each culture into her designs. The simplicity of Japan, the tradition and luxury of London, and the fresh vibrant looks of California, comes together effortlessly, showcasing the beauty of interior design in any setting.

Justina Blackeney – Justina Blackeney

justinablakeney.com

Justina Blackeney can do it all: designer, stylist, DIY master, author. Using her experience studying design in Florence, Italy, combined with her beatnik California aesthetic, Blackeney has recently launched a bohemian lifestyle brand, The Jungalow, featuring rugs and pillows and other amazing home accessories and style tips.

Katie Hodges Design – Katie Hodges

katiehodgesdesign.com

Seemingly new to the design game, Katie Hodges has quickly made a name for herself. Over the past 5 years Hodges has not only worked with some of the top design firms in Los Angeles, but has also started running her own business, which brings an eclectic bohemian style that will make you never want to leave home.

Kelly Wearstler – Kelly Wearstler

kellywearstler.com

Kelly Wearstler has been recognized by the interior design industry worldwide for her luxurious designs, prominent cliental list, and of course, acclaimed Melrose boutique. Furniture, art and fashion are never too decadent for Wearstler, whose aesthetic is rich and filled with elegant works of art and decorative pieces.

Kerry Vasquez Design – Kerry Vasquez

kerryvasquez.com

Whether Kerry Vasquez is painting, planning luxurious events, or designing interiors, she brings a creative and fresh look to every endeavor. Mastering the art of balance in a home, by combining functionality with fashion, or personal treasures with new chic pieces, her designs seamlessly blend new style with individuality.

LiveStyle Designs – Francesca Messina-Deshae

livestyledesigns.squarespace.com

Starting her own line of textiles and home decor as a young woman in San Francisco, Francesca has elevated her interior design career into an incredible business. She has traveled the globe, sourcing pieces from nearly every continent for her stores in Santa Monica, and (soon to be) Brooklyn, bringing a perfect balance of custom furniture, vintage finds, and polished pieces.

Natasha Baradaran Interior Design – Natasha Baradaran

natashabaradaran.com

Natasha Baradaran takes everything we love about Los Angeles and translates it into home decor. Glamour, class, and elegance are showcased at its finest when Baradaran designs high-end residential and commercial spaces for her clients. She has been regarded as an “interior designer on the rise” by top publications such as W Magazine and Town & Country.

Nickey Kehoe – Todd Nickey & Amy Kehoe

nickeykehoe.com

Duo Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe are the “hunter-gathers of good taste”. Nickey Kehoe creates extremely unique spaces from their clients’ personal treasures as well as new pieces from their eclectic Los Angeles storefront.

Park McDonald – Alice Park & Michael McDonald

park-mcdonald.com

Michael McDonald and Alice Park established their firm in 2003 after working independently at renowned architectural firms in Los Angeles. Their amazing ingenuity and refined styles have developed into masterfully created residential projects, and a collection of innovative products and furniture.

Ryan White Designs – Ryan White

ryanwhitedesigns.com

Ryan White Designs is an interior design firm that creates homes that truly embody “american sophistication”. White worked in the fashion industry in Manhattan before moving to Los Angeles which has influenced his designs –  the clean, cosmopolitan, and perfectly curated interiors make you feel as if you were living in a Ralph Lauren ad.

Wendy Haworth Design – Wendy Haworth

wendyhaworthdesign.com

Wendy Haworth Design knows how to perfect a space and make it feel like an interior design paradise. Ever wonder why the food at Gracias Madre or Cafe Gratitude tastes so good? Wendy is responsible for the dreamy interiors of LA restaurants Gracias Madre and Cafe Gratitude – both of which have been celebrity-approved. Wendy Haworth’s love of funky tile, and use of indoor plants and sprinkles of vintage pieces make every space look like a Californian dream.

 

San Francisco Designers We Admire

Amanda Loper – Amanda Loper

amandaloper.com

Amanda Loper combines her knowledge for interior architecture and product design with the ever impending need to drive her community forward. She’s worked on many projects, including one of our favorite coffee spots, St. Frank Coffee Shop in the Russian Hill district of San Francisco, and an extensive collaboration with the SF Planning department to implement high-density affordable housing and a community center in Hunters View. Loper is constantly combining impeccable style, a sharp architectural background, and her passion for social awareness in the housing sector of urban development.

Andrea Faucett Design + Interiors – Andrea Faucett

andreafaucett.com

Andrea Faucett has worked on a range of different projects, from commercial interior design to product development for the beloved SF chocolate company, TCHO. Her background is in Architecture from the California College of the Arts. Her mission is to design responsibly and to be mindful of the environment. Her zen and spiritual mentality beautifully influences her design aesthetic.

Ashley Redmond – Ashley Redmond

The ultra-stylish Ashley Redmond has been designing interiors for residential and commercial spaces for over 15 years. She is the director of interior design platform, decorist, which streamlines the purchasing and decorating process to one online webpage. Her designs and projects have been featured in publications such as Vogue, Sunset, Elle Decor, Rue, and many more.

Benni Amadi Interiors – Benni Amadi

benniamadiinteriors.com

Benedetta (Benni) Amadi couples her keen architectural eye with current and on-trend style, mixing new and vintages pieces to bring a personalized touch to her projects. Refinery 29Homepolish, and Design Milk have all featured the redesign of her home in San Francisco, CA, which showcases Benni’s passion for creating spaces that reflect the people inhabiting them in a chic and polished fashion. She’s also the mama of 2 adorable pups, Marlo and Giuno.

Caitlin Flemming Design – Caitlin Flemming

caitlinflemming.com

In addition to Caitlin’s design blog, Sacramento Street, posting daily on interior design, travel, and style, the well-traveled Caitlin works on interior design projects throughout California. Her iconic clean layered work mixes old and new style in a fresh, stylish fashion.

Catherine Kwong Design – Catherine Kwong

catherinekwong.com

With a degree from Brown University and Parsons School of Design, Catherine Kwong brings a highly developed knowledge of design as well as a natural ability for polished aesthetics to every project. She has received praise from various publications, showcasing her unique ability to blend luxury pieces with personal treasures.

Eche Martinez – Eche Martinez

echemartinez.com

Born in Buenos Aires, Eche Martinez brings a global perspective into his designs. Martinez is not afraid to be bold and exciting, however, his work is still extremely well-edited and refined, allowing each space to take a life of its own.
Form + Field – Christine Lin
formandfield.com

Form + Field creates original interiors that honor the identity, history, and surroundings of our clients. With an emphasis on art, architecture, and eclectic modernism, the firm cultivates every project as a partnership. Led by Christine Lin, a multi-disciplinary creative with degrees in architecture, engineering, and business from MIT and UC Berkeley, Form + Field is based in San Francisco with projects spanning both coasts.

gamble + Design – Jeni Gamble

gambleplusdesign.com

The classic gamble + Design is a one-stop-shop, providing the full spectrum of design, including architectural services for residential projects of any size. Bringing local artisans, a modern edge, and great attention to detail into one cohesive space is what drives gamble + Design to follow their passions and create beautiful environments. From homes in Pacific Heights and Marin, all the way down the coast to L.A. to work on Candis Cayne’s beach home, principal designer, Jeni Gamble, masters the full design process from concept to the final touches.

Geremia Lauren Geremia

geremiadesign.com

Vogue writer, Brooke Bobb, describes Lauren Geremia as the go-to designer for start-up offices in the Bay Area, creating Instagram’s first office as well as the work spaces for Lumosity, DropBox, and Figma, just to name a few. However, Geremia has also worked on a wide range of residential and commercial spaces throughout San Francisco, including Churchill, Citizen Band, Coffee Bar and BloodHound. The Geremia team exudes contemporary style by mixing custom pieces with sophisticated design.

Gina Rachelle Designs – Gina Rachelle

ginarachelledesign.com

In 2012, Gina Gutierrez left the world of lifestyle and fitness and applied her learnings of business management, coupled with her instinctive eye for design, to establish Gina Rachelle Design. Whether she’s designing for residential homes, or commercial spaces, such as the Diakadi Fitness Center in SOMA, Gina brings a fresh eye to every project.

Grant K. Gibson – Grant Gibson

grantkgibson.com

Grant Gibson has merged his New York sophistication and California flexibility to create residential spaces that not only look great but reflect the personalities of the space, and the people that inhabit them. Grant integrates personal treasures and rich pieces to bring together a look that turns his client’s house into a well manicured home.

Hulburd Design – Holly Hulburd

hulburddesign.com

Hulburd Design focuses on creating modern sleek designs that provide an element of sophistication while providing a sense of comfort and warmth to the environments. Principal designer, Holly Hulburd, brings her background in architecture design and combines that with her passion for art to create unique spaces for her clients.

Kendall Wilkinson Design – Kendall Wilkinson

kendallwilkinson.com

Whether they are doing a full-scale remodel, custom furniture pieces, or working on their collection of indoor/outdoor fabrics, Kendall Wilkinson Design brings a professional and chic element into any endeavor. Participating in showcase events for Elle Decor, Luxe, and the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, Kendall’s extensive experience and impeccable taste are apparent.

Lauren Nelson Design – Lauren Nelson

laurennelsondesign.com

In addition to designing vibrant and chic homes and offices throughout San Francisco, Lauren Nelson Design has worked on prop-styling for companies including The Today Show, Starwood Hotels, and Anthology magazine. Nelson embodies what it means to be a young and fashion forward designer in an increasingly trendy city like San Francisco.

Lauren Ranes Interior Design – Lauren Ranes

laurenranes.com

Lauren Ranes began her career working for several leading interior design firms before branching off and establishing Lauren Ranes Interior design in 2011. As a talented, stylish designer, Ranes truly understands the balance between traditional and fresh aesthetics.

Martin Group – Beth Martin

martingroupsf.com

Featured on Elle Decor‘s “A-list: Designers We Love” in 2016, Beth Martin has been credited by leading publications as creating visual designs in high-end residential homes for over 20 years. Working closely with her team of highly trained contractors, craftspeople, and furniture makers, their visions is always executed at the highest level of elegance.

Mend – Susie Ho

mendetc.com

Principal designer, Susie Ho, started Mend in order to bring color, texture, and an effortlessly happy spirit to her client’s homes throughout San Francisco and Los Angeles. Featured in Refinery29, Susie explained her passion for pattern, everything vintage, and lots and lots of fresh flowers.

Niche Interiors – Jennifer Jones

nicheinteriors.com

A small team of four highly trained interior designers, Niche Interiors prides themselves on bringing earth friendly as well as family friendly design to every home. Principal designer Jennifer Jones is a LEED Accredited Professional as well as a Certified Green Building Professional, proving her commitment to making her clients indoor space as health conscious and sustainable as possible.

NICOLEHOLLIS – Nicole Hollis

nicolehollis.com

Nicole Hollis is the principal designer and creative director at NICOLEHOLLIS, an award-winning group of 34+ interior designers who dedicate their craft to “elevating the human spirit”. NICOLEHOLLIS’s extensive collection of influential clients appreciate the sophistication and unprecedented amount of detail put into every project, bringing an air of worldliness into every design.

Martine Paquin Design – Martine Paquin

martinepaquin.com

Martine Paquin Design has been designing contemporary, environmentally friendly homes in the Bay area and Tahoe since 2008. The firm believes that in order to create a comfortable living space their most be a symbiotic balance between the natural elements of the home, such as lighting, and the materials used in decor.

Regan Baker Design – Regan Baker

reganbakerdesign.com

Regan Baker Design believes that good design starts with a productive and efficient process. This is achieved by setting up front expectations, and help keep the clients ideas and solutions front and center. From this philosophy Regan and her team have created mid century inspired homes that combine natural elements with kitschy patterns to bring their clients personality alive.

Soledad Alzaga Interiors – Soledad Alzaga

soledadalzaga.com

After moving to San Francisco from Buenos Aires, almost 20 years ago, Soledad Alzaga has been focusing on boutique residential and commercial interior design. She combines polished chic design with sophisticated and unique pieces.

Studio One – Lisa Collins

studioonesf.com

Lisa started her career in the design world as a graphic and product designer who had a strong passion for photography. After remodeling her home in Marin County, Lisa unleashed her talent for interior design. After going back to school to get a second degree in interior and architectural design from UC Berkeley. Lisa started her own design firm, Studio One, combining her sharp eye and fresh California aesthetic, creating livable sanctuaries for her clients.

Studio Revolution – Jemy Massie & Emily Ellis

studio-revolution.us

The dynamic duo of Studio Revolution, Jemy Massie and Emily Ellis, met at the Academy of Art in San Francisco. After a short period of time at different design firms the two decided to combined their different design perspectives and styles to bring a funky aesthetic to residential homes and commercial setting across the Bay area.

Wick Design – Will Wick

wickdesign.com

Will Wick has been creating timeless, bold designs in the Bay Area for over 10 years. Taking his love for architecture and travel and merging it with contemporary interior design in both the residential and commercial environment. Wick Design explains, “when he cannot find the perfect piece, Will makes it himself; he has a growing line of his own lighting and furniture designs that add an extra element of eclecticism to his spaces.”

Interior Designer Approved Halloween Ideas

 

Just because it’s Halloween doesn’t mean you have to ditch your design snob tendencies. We’ve scoured the Internet and found appropriate DIY pumpkin masterpieces, chic decor, spooky tablescapes and delicious bites and sips to celebrate this year, suitable for the design-enthusiasts.


DIY Pumpkins

Pumpkins for the Design Enthusiast

Chic Decor

Halloween Decor for the Design Enthusiast

Tablescapes

 Spooky Tablescapes for the Design Enthusiast

Dare to Sip and Taste

Chic Halloween Menu

Reinventing High-End Retail With Article

 

Our daily routine consists of sipping our morning coffee while we scour through our social media channels and go-to news sources. Each day, we learn about how a new company is “disrupting” something. Online furniture is an industry that is rapidly evolving, and Article, the online furniture company, is at the forefront, spearheading efficient and affordable production best practices while keeping customer care as their number one priority.

By working directly with manufacturers and adjusting the design of traditional home furnishings based on modern living habits of real people, Article manages to deliver high-end furniture that has become an interior staple. Here, Article shares their two cents on production practices, experiments with new retail experiences, and most importantly, putting the customer first.

Photography courtesy of Article


Article, previously known as Bryght, is known for producing high-end furnishings with prices less than 70% average retail cost. How does the Article production process make this possible?

Article was founded by a group of four adventurous software engineers who saw incredible inefficiency in the way furniture was made and sold. They resolved to come up with a new way to make shopping for beautiful designer furniture simpler, easier, and more affordable.

The resulting solution is Article.

By working directly with the manufacturers who create our furniture, we’re able to cut out the traditional middlemen. This affords us significant savings that we are then able to pass on to customers in the form of radically lower pricing for beautiful, high-quality product.

How is Article different than the thousands of other online furniture retailers out there?

One of our core guiding principles is being direct.

That starts at the production process and filters all the way down to how we interact with our customers—through our website and through our online digital presence. By being direct we are able to make high-quality designer furniture not only more accessible, but we can also deliver a better overall experience for customers.

Article Sofa

What are some of the challenges Article faces with your unique production process?

Candidly, we have had trouble keeping things in stock in the past.

While our collection is carefully selected by our product team, what ultimately becomes a success is up to our customers. Given that our approach to new products has been to soft-launch a limited starting inventory on the website and see how they perform in the weeks that follow, if an item finds immediate success, it’s up to us to quickly determine how much inventory we should follow up with.

Unfortunately, this can sometimes cause delays in inventory arriving, but I am pleased to say this is something that we are getting much better at.

In regards to your team, we read that you have no sales people, and a large support team. In your opinion, how essential is customer service to furniture retail and the interior design industry as a whole?

It is pretty hard to overstate the importance of our customer care team.  There’s a high degree of trust that our customers have to place in us when they’re planning to purchase a sofa they’ve never sat on or even seen. Being able to pick up the phone and directly contact a real person (all right here at Article HQ) to walk you through the process, answer product-related questions, or troubleshoot your order is critical.

We empower our team to solve any issues on the spot. You will often find them walking amongst our samples taking specific measurements, confirming construction details, or even creating short videos to share with customers to demonstrate a specific feature of a piece.

Article Team Photo

What we love about Article is your mission to listen to your consumers and use that feedback to produce something better. That’s what Ivy is all about as well. What are some key pain points Article has addressed with furniture production, purchasing, shipping and returns?

There are three key pain points we address:

1. A well thought out selection: You will immediately notice that we don’t have thousands of items to choose from. We carefully select and continually refine our product offering, ensuring that each and every piece meets a real need for our customers. Every piece is designed to last.

2. Service, not sales: We don’t have any salespeople on our team. Instead, we invest in a customer service team that is here to help you through the process and find the pieces that are perfect for you – not incentivized to sell you more based on commission.

3. Unrivaled value: Historically, customers generally had to make trade-offs when it came to design, comfort and affordability. It was easy to find something that ticked one of those boxes, or maybe two, but good luck with all three. All of our pieces are beautiful, functional, and feature materials that are chosen for their reliability and quality. All of this at radically lower prices than our traditional retail competitors.

Which 3 words would you use to describe Article furniture?

Beautiful, functional, affordable.

What are some of your best-sellers?

Our number one seller is consistently the Sven sofa in our Charme Tan leather. However, the recently launched Charme Chocolat leather and our velvet options are quickly growing in popularity. Coming up behind it would be our marble Mara coffee tables, our Conan dining tables, and our Ceni collection—whose classic mid-century look has been a favorite with our customers since the inception of the company.

Article Sofa

Based on your knowledge of the industry, what are some modern day issues impacting the furniture retail business?

Traditional retailers are struggling with high retail rents that have a huge impact when you need the kind of space that a showroom requires. The traditional approach also necessitates huge investments in inventory, and consequently an inability to be flexible and fast-moving.

Our business model very deliberately addresses all of these issues, and allows us to offer radically better value.

Why would an interior designer want to use Article to furnish a residential or commercial project?

The same reasons that customers in general choose Article: great style, lasting quality, and outstanding customer service. Something else that designers often appreciate is that we are able to provide super fast delivery on items that are in stock.

We also offer a trade discount program for professional interior designers, and we are working on expanding this program to include other perks and special offers for our interior design partners.

Article Sofa

How can Article ease the sourcing, buying and shipping process for interior designers?

We realize that your reputation is on the line when you are working with a client, and you are entrusting us to deliver on our promises. This is something we take very seriously, and are actively investing inmaking life easier (and better) for our interior design partners.

We are currently hiring for a Trade Partner Program Manager specifically to work on this.

What are 3 tips of “best practices” to offer interior designers for making the most out of Article?

1. Sign up for our program: Drop us an email (support@article.com) and ask to join our trade program. This gives designers access to exclusive offers. We just need a business license and/or a link to your website to get your application underway.

2. Request swatches: While you are at it, let the team know a selection of swatches you would like us to send. We are happy to send you out a lovely little care package.

3. Stay up-to-date: Keep an eye out for our emails that we send out every two weeks. We are always adding to our collection, and when you are signed up to our trade program you will be among the first to know when new products (and new lookbooks for inspiration) launch! For your daily dose of inspiration follow us on Instagram.

Article Sofa

Tell us about the Breather Showroom experiences you have created for your customers…

That is really the first of our experiments in a new retail experience. We have collaborated with Breather, a company that offers beautiful, relaxing spaces for people to meet, work or focus. Our first trio of spaces are in Santa Monica, and we have been booking time for our customers to go and check out our pieces. They are free to just hang out and do whatever they please – read a book, watch TV, or invite some friends to all go along together. Most importantly, there is no salesperson hovering over your shoulder—the space is all yours.

This collaboration is only in its beginning stages, but the feedback has been really promising. It is definitely something we will be continuing to experiment with—undoubtedly in other cities where our customer base is strongest.

What’s next for Article?

We have some incredibly exciting projects that are set to go live in the near future.

First up, we have heard customers’ feedback and will be expanding our collection into new areas, including bedroom and outdoor furniture, as well as a broader selection of accessories. Of course you can expect all of these to be as beautiful, functional, and affordable as our collections to date.

We are also just about to open a new warehouse in L.A., adding to our existing warehouses in New Jersey and Seattle. This will mean faster delivery times for our customers in California and the surrounding areas.

Finally, we are starting to experiment with new ways for people to experience our brand in the real world. It is in its early days, but we are looking at how we can reinvent the traditional retail showroom experience to provide a more intimate, delightful experience—we call them living rooms rather than showrooms. We don’t want to give away too much, but we can say that we envision places where you don’t have to evaluate your new sofa while in the presence of hundreds of other shoppers, or a with pushy salesperson following you around.

Article Sofa

Redefining Luxury Bedding With Parachute

 

Ariel Kaye, founder and CEO of Parachute, the fast-growing home essentials brand, is a woman to admire. Ariel simply had enough with overpriced luxury bedding, so she took matters into her own hands and launched Parachute in Venice Beach. The brand’s mission is to fulfill consumers’ needs for high-quality bedding and a good night’s sleep, without breaking the bank. Parachute is dedicated to starting and ending your day feeling your very best, considering you spend 1/3 of your life in bed. The trade program provides exclusive discounts and tax exemptions, complimentary fabric swatches for bedding, and personalized one-on-one consultations.

Parachute has been noted as one of the “25 Hot Los Angeles Startups to Watch” by Business Insider, and has been featured in many other notable publications including, ELLE DECOR, Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times to name a few. Here, Ariel shares her founding story, how Parachute is changing the $26 billion home textile industry, and what makes Parachute as a brand unique compared to the other luxury bedding brands out there.


Ariel, we’re incredibly inspired by your story – how you recognized a flaw in the bedding business and made a change with your bare hands. What was your “Aha” moment that made you realize you needed to start your own business to make that happen?

During my sophomore year at NYU, I spent six months in Italy. As a way to practice my Italian, I would go to the markets to look at beautifully detailed fabrics and talk to the artisans about how they made them. I’d hear stories from sons who were running businesses started by their great-great grandfathers. Then one night, I checked into a picturesque hotel on the Amalfi Coast. I pulled back the duvet, arranged the pillows to my liking, crawled into bed…and found perfection that I didn’t know existed. Those sumptuous sheets were softer than anything I had ever experienced.

Fast forward to 2012 when I was shopping in a big box retailer. I went in looking for bedding and found myself surrounded by stacks and stacks of products that all looked the same, and no one could tell me what anything was. I wanted comfortable, quality sheets, but I didn’t want to spend an arm and a leg. I also didn’t want to buy something cheap for the sake of buying it and end up unhappy. I was overwhelmed, confused, and frustrated. I left not knowing what to buy, and I got angry – I’m going to use sheets more than any other product in my home, but no one is asking me how I sleep at night? I also realized that no one had an association with brands when they bought their sheets. This is when I had my “aha” moment. As someone who built brands in advertising, I recognized a true business opportunity. They say if you can’t find it, create it. And so I did. In January 2014, Parachute launched with an assortment of Bedding essentials.

Ariel Kaye

Photo by Parachute

They say if you can’t find it, create it. And so I did.

 

Parachute’s office and showroom are based in Venice Beach, CA – rock on! How have Venice vibes influenced Parachute’s design and brand vision?

I grew up by the beach in L.A. but lived in New York for 10 years. I decided to return to launch Parachute because I was looking for renewed inspiration and a change of pace. The relaxed, laid-back vibe and sense of community in Venice Beach are integral to both Parachute’s brand aesthetic and work culture.

Parachute is in great company, surrounded by some of L.A.’s best food, artists and shopping. There’s also a phenomenal interior design movement happening here in L.A. – world class architects, artisans, decorators, etc. It’s exciting to be a part of that. Oh, and the weather doesn’t hurt either. I love that you can relax on the beach almost year round, and our color palette is inspired by the natural beauty of our surroundings. There was no question this place should be Parachute’s home.

Venice also celebrates health and wellness in a way that I appreciate. We have many yoga studios, fitness centers and juice bars within walking or bike riding distance of our headquarters. I view sleep and comfort as a critical part of health and wellness, and I love that our brand provides a product that enhances the sleep experience and upholds the values of our community.

Parachute Venice Showroom

Photo by Parachute

Based on your knowledge of the industry, what are some modern day issues impacting the $26 billion home textiles industry?

People who want luxury bedding have been forced to pay too much for it. There is insane markup in this category — there are bedding brokers, licensing fees, and all kinds of intermediaries between the manufacturers and the stores. By buying directly from the manufacturer and delivering straight to the consumer, Parachute is able to circumvent all those markups and pass along those savings to customers.

What makes Parachute bedding different than other luxury bedding?

Parachute is changing home textiles – a category that had no brand loyalty until now. While many consumers remember where they bought their bedding – a department store or big box retailer – there wasn’t a brand that was connecting with customers and engaging with them past the point of purchase.

We’re providing a modern alternative to what had been around for ages. Our key differentiators are quality, craftsmanship and comfort.

Quality: Our home essentials are Oeko-Tex certified and made of the finest textiles, combed with precision to remove all impurities and dyed naturally.

Craftsmanship: We work directly with the best factories all over the world to offer our customers a superior product at a lower cost.

Comfort: We offer thoughtful design details that are uniquely Parachute, such as Pillowcases that have a back envelope closure.

Wellness: Our blog shares interior design inspiration, sleep and wellness tips, and helpful information about caring for your home essentials.

Parachute Pinstripe Bedding

Photo by Parachute

Parachute is changing home textiles – a category that had no brand loyalty until now.

 

In your opinion, how does quality bedding affect health and wellness?

You use your bedding every night, and it comes into direct contact with your body, so it’s extremely important to look for all natural options that are safe for your skin. But beware of the term “organic”. Companies frequently manipulate the term when labeling their textiles. Fibers grown organically – but processed with toxic chemicals – may still carry the organic label. “Wrinkle free” or “permanent press” labels should be avoided because manufacturers treat these fabrics with formaldehyde resin, a toxic chemical. Instead, you should look for bedding that is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning no harmful chemicals or toxins are used. And yes, all of Parachute’s home essentials are Oeko-Tex certified! You spend ⅓ of your life in bed, so your sleep experience matters.

What makes Italian bedding so special?

We travel the globe to locate the best mills to make our Bedding. Our Percale and Sateen fabrics are made of the finest long-staple Egyptian cotton and spun in one of Tuscany’s world renowned mills. These artisans have been weaving world class linens for over 80 years!

Our Linen is produced in the Guimaraes region in northern Portugal, where textile production has thrived since the 18th century. By collaborating with expert craftsmen, we’re able to deliver a premium quality product that upholds the high standards and heritage of that region. Our partners’ passion for textiles is demonstrated through their attention to detail. Trust me, you’ll feel the difference.

Parachute Navy Bedding

Photo by Parachute

You spend ⅓ of your life in bed, so your sleep experience matters.

 

Tell us about your partnership with the UN’s “Nothing But Nets” nonprofit…

Social responsibility has been implicit to Parachute’s business model from the start. Our dual intent is to provide a luxurious sleep experience and to give back, which is why we partner with the United Nations Foundation’s Nothing But Nets, an organization providing safe sleep to those in need.

Nothing But Nets is a global, grassroots campaign created by the United Nations Foundation to prevent malaria, a leading killer of children in sub-Saharan Africa. For every Venice Set sold, we donate one life-saving malaria prevention bed net through this campaign. You can also join our efforts to raise awareness and make an impact by contributing a $10 donation to Nothing But Nets at checkout.

What is Parachute’s best-seller?

Our best-selling Venice Bedding Set bundles your sleep essentials for comfort, ease and convenience. This luxurious set includes one Fitted Sheet, one Duvet Cover and Pillowcase(s). Forty percent of Americans sleep without a Top Sheet, so why pay for something you don’t need?

Parachute Blush Linen Bedding

Photo by Parachute

The Parachute blog is a destination for people to learn how to “wake up happy from now on”. What kind of content and ideas can interior designers pull from your blog?

Our blog shares sleep and wellness tips, helpful information about Parachute’s collection of home essentials and interior design inspiration – like Desert-Inspired Design Tips, Styling Bedroom Artwork and 5 Ways to Style a White Bedroom.

How does Parachute typically work with interior designers?

We are proud to offer exclusive trade pricing and services. Our Parachute Trade Members receive 15% off retail prices and tax exemption with resale license, complimentary fabric swatches for Bedding and one-on-one service from a Parachute team member.

The Parachute Hotel

Photo by Nicole LaMote

What should interior designers learn and understand before sourcing bedding for their clients?

Parachute takes a modern approach to classic bedding design. Our unfussy style and neutral color palette – inspired by the natural beauty of our Venice Beach surroundings – appeals to a variety of design aesthetics. Our customers are 48% men and 52% women!

It’s been quite a year…what’s Parachute’s focus for 2017?

While we’ll continue to expand our assortment of home essentials, what I’m most excited about is bringing this physical and experiential version of Parachute to our customers in more cities around the world. Whether that’s through additional retail spaces or another Parachute Hotel, we want to be where all of our customers are. We’re dreaming big.

The Parachute Hotel

Photo by Nicole LaMote


Are you an interior designer in search of an easy interior design software and project management tool to run your business? Learn more about Ivy here.

The Architectural & Design Masterpieces on Airbnb

 

With cheaper flights this fall, it’s a good time to book your holiday abroad. Looking for a more local experience? Airbnb continues to give access to international historical homes, whether it be an Old-Havana villa in Cuba, or an architectural phenomenon built for a nobleman in Belgium. We’ve sifted through thousands of spaces and have uncovered some of Airbnb’s most impressive listings suited for the design-enthusiast, each capturing unique architectural elements to its local culture.

Photography via Airbnb


Havana Casa Blanca in Havana, Cuba

This 19th-century villa is located in historic Morro-Cabaña park, overlooking the Havana Harbor and the Old Havana. The Spanish-style colonial home includes an outdoor garden, a pool and shaded terraces.

Airbnb Havana

Havana Airbnb

Link to book: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5694900

A Little House in Paris, France

This ancient industrial building has been converted into a charming well-collected home for friends and family. Including 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, the loft can accommodate up to 11 people comfortably.

Airbnb Paris

Airbnb Paris

Link to book: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2749954

The Sibarist Penthouse Garden in Madrid, Spain

This gorgeous luxury penthouse has a huge terrace with panoramic views of the city of Madrid. The space, designed by The Sibarist, is complimented with contemporary art pieces, reflecting the downtown vibe of the Chamberí Neighborhood.

Airbnb Madrid

Madrid Airbnb

Link to book: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/10682512

Avant-Garde Flat in Antwerb, Belgium

This luxurious 220 meter apartment was originally built in 1845 for one of Belgium’s nobleman. It has since been renovated, maintaining its original features. The tall ceilings and private entrance hall provides a spacious feel, coupled with large double glazed windows with great views of the historical church. The master bedroom faces an enclosed garden.

Airbnb Belgium

Airbnb Belgium

Link to book: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/9816979

An Architect’s Flat in Barcelona, Spain

This unique, incredibly spacious “Catalan Art Nouveau” flat is entered through a gorgeous reception hall. The architecture reflects Modernista Barcelona circa 1906, located in the area of Gracia in Plaza Lesseps. “Casa Ramos” was originally designed to accommodate the Ramos family in Barcelona, walking distance from Gaudi’s Park Güell. Almodovar, Allan Parker, Wim Wenders and many others have filmed in this space. 

Airbnb Barcelona

Airbnb Barcelona

Link to book: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/959089