Written by Wilson Hack The best architecture allows what has come before it to be seen and cared for while at the same time injecting something new, if not idealistic. Spartan at first glance, the interior of this stately apartment building, located on the iconic Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona, quickly begins to unfold as a calculated series of textures, visual artifacts and perfected aesthetic continuities. The client, a globe-trotting entrepreneur, selected Jeanne Schultz Design Studio for the remodel and requested that the space be reconditioned into a purposeful and peaceful landing pad. It was to be furnished simply using natural and sustainable materials. Schultz began by gently peeling back before adding only the essentials, resulting in a harmoniously restorative living space where darkness and light coexist and comfort reigns. The design was initially guided by the fireplace—from there a subtle injection of matching color extends up into the thick tiered molding and ceiling trim. “The most reckless patterns live here,” remarks Schultz, referring to the checkered green and white tiles, pink-Pollack-y stone and cast iron detailing. The millwork and warm wood wall panels devour the remainder of the living room, eliminating the need for unnecessary artwork. A curved living room chair by Kave Home punctuates playfully; its shape reveals its pleasant conformity to the human body and sits back, inviting rest and respite. “It’s good for all body types and sizes,” explains Schultz. The single sofa by Dareels is purposefully oversized, casual and inviting. A beige cover was added to soften the otherwise rectilinear edges. Additionally sourced from Dareels, a small yet centrally located side table anchors the space with its dark black wood texture, its visual weight on par with the larger pieces. The black bulbous free standing lamp converses directly with the antique chandelier above. Composed of individual black leather strips, it is seemingly harsh—yet its soft form is reminiscent of a spring tulip. The continuation of the color palette slips softly into the dining room where velvety green chairs sit delicately on a cascade array of pointed legs. The doors that lead out to the patio were sanded down and treated so that the original shape and form could be retained. Although the same green paint was used throughout, this set of doors speaks in darker tones alongside the acute and penetrating daylight. A few different shades of white paint were used throughout the space to add additional depth and embellish this shadowy texture. Specialty lights were added into the space to complement the existing overhead lighting. A wall sconce was added in the living room and extra lighting was placed in the kitchen. However, because of the existing barrel vaulted tile ceiling, sconces were placed on the walls rather than above to avoid penetrating the existing architecture.

When envisioning the Hygeia Lot 3 single family residential home in Encinitas, California, Lindsay and Rory Brown of The Brown Studio sought to weave unique architectural details throughout the minimalist design scheme. To add depth to the overall look and feel of the space, and to complement the home’s existing ‘hard’ angles, the team selected Banker Wire’s IPZ-25 woven wire mesh. Specified in a stainless steel and brass finish, the wire mesh was utilized to create the interior stairway railing, which functions as the focal point of the lower lounge room area. Adding an elegant touchpoint to the space, the wire mesh reiterates the angular look and feel while providing much-needed depth through the stainless steel and brass finish. Similarly, for the project-at-large, the design team favored a seamless indoor/outdoor design scheme, with the Banker Wire mesh application helping to achieve this; the exterior of the home features Gabion rock walls, created using an enclosing wire structure to secure the rocks into a wall formation. By adding the wire mesh interior stairway railing, the design team was able to create an indoor/outdoor connection through highlighting these unique wire touchpoints. “The Hygeia Lot 3 house is full of unique angles and architectural details—it’s two levels of playful design and carefully crafted architectural details,” says Loryn Cook, Designer, The Brown Studio. “We wanted to use materials that reflect this line of thinking, and Banker Wire’s architectural mesh provided the stability and breathability we were after.” The simple, lightweight material of the IPZ-25 wire mesh pattern—which has a 54% open area—utilizes a mixture of stainless steel to achieve balanced sturdiness; when mixed with the copper-based alloy of brass, a beautiful contrast occurs, while the team’s custom system holds the wire in place. Through utilizing different wire diameters for the warp and shute—achieving balanced stiffness in both directions—the intercrimp surface gives the material a high degree of reflective energy. As a result, the mesh pattern imitates an array of colors that changes as the viewer moves throughout the space. “For this project, we wanted a material that was permeable enough to see through, but detailed enough to catch the eye,” adds Cook. “IPZ-25 provides a myriad of different textures and colors, depending on the perspective from which it is viewed from—we love it specifically for this effect.” In regards to the fabrication process, Robert Richter, Owner of Flur Metals, notes that although it was initially a challenge, this project is proof that the outcome is well worth it. “We typically utilize more rigid mesh types for this kind of application, but because of how unique IPZ-25 is, The Brown Studio came to us asking if we could make it work,” says Richter. “We did not shy away from the challenge; this project was exciting, as we were able to utilize such a delicate, beautiful mesh, but a non-traditional way. Once one side was ‘tac’d in,’ we pulled it tight, and ‘tac’d’ the other side to the frame. Then, the border was welded to another frame that sandwiched the mesh in place,” adds Richter. “This application is proof that it can be done! It’s still one of my favorite projects we have ever worked on.”

On a quiet street just steps from San Francisco’s beloved Dolores Park, a formerly modest urban structure has been transformed into a luminous vertical residence that quietly redefines contemporary city living. Through a comprehensive remodel and both vertical and horizontal expansion, the project turns a constrained urban footprint into a sequence of serene, art-forward living spaces that unfold upward toward expansive city views. The architecture balances restraint and warmth: crisp contemporary geometry softened by natural materials, artful lighting, and carefully curated interiors. The result is a home that feels simultaneously grounded and elevated—deeply connected to its neighborhood yet remarkably private. Reimagining the Urban Envelope The original building has been almost entirely reconceived. The facade now reads as a disciplined composition of plaster volumes and precisely detailed window openings framed by subtle projecting bands. The geometry references San Francisco’s classic rhythm of bayed facades while stripping the language down to a refined modern expression. Behind this quiet exterior lies a dramatically expanded interior volume. The redesign adds both additional floor area and new vertical circulation, transforming what was once a conventional city house into a multi-level architectural sequence organized around light, art, and views. At the roofline, planted terraces soften the building’s silhouette and create a green crown visible from surrounding hillsides. Interiors as a Sequence of Galleries Inside, the home unfolds as a series of spatial moments connected by a sculptural stair and gallery-like corridors. Wide plank oak floors run throughout, providing continuity and warmth against a palette of plaster walls, dark steel detailing, and natural stone. The hallways function almost as curated galleries, with layered artworks suspended in front of mesh panels that create depth and subtle shadow. Light filters through carefully placed windows and stair openings, transforming circulation spaces into contemplative transitions rather than mere passageways. A Living Room Anchored by Stone and Light The primary living room occupies one of the home’s central floors, where a quiet interplay of texture and geometry defines the space. A monumental fireplace wrapped in dark stone forms the room’s anchor, its mass contrasting with a recessed ceiling plane that seems to float above the seating area. Integrated perimeter lighting creates a soft architectural glow that washes the ceiling and walls. Furniture is sculptural yet understated—rounded lounge chairs in warm ochre velvet, tailored sofas, and a striking marble cocktail table whose expressive veining becomes a focal artwork in itself. Deep blue carpeting grounds the seating arrangement and subtly absorbs light, enhancing the calm atmosphere. Above the fireplace, a delicate projection artwork introduces a moment of visual poetry—an unexpected cinematic gesture that transforms the wall into a quietly animated canvas. Kitchen as Architectural Furniture The kitchen expresses a different register: crisp, tactile, and materially rich. Custom walnut cabinetry spans the wall in a continuous plane, punctuated only by the sculpted hood and integrated appliances. The wood’s depth and warmth are balanced by expanses of pale marble that flow seamlessly from countertop to backsplash. Three dome pendants hover above the island like industrial sculptures, casting pools of warm light onto the stone surface. A row of vivid red stools introduces a controlled burst of color, a small but confident departure from the otherwise restrained palette. Dining With a Living Backdrop Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining room opens toward a glass wall overlooking a vertical garden of climbing ivy. The greenery becomes a constantly changing backdrop—lush and shadowy during the day, atmospheric and cinematic after sunset. A dark wood table anchors the room, surrounded by pale oak chairs whose understated forms echo Scandinavian design traditions. The simplicity of the furniture allows the view and natural light to become the dominant experience. Intimate Spaces and Material Contrast Throughout the home, smaller rooms offer moments of intimacy and material experimentation. The powder room pairs textured wall coverings with a dramatic black marble vanity whose bold veining feels almost geological. A suspended mirror and slender pendant create a sculptural composition against the tactile backdrop. The primary bedroom, by contrast, feels serene and expansive. Floor-to-ceiling glazing frames sweeping views of the city, while soft textiles and warm wood paneling create a cocooning effect. Slender black columns subtly define a sitting area without interrupting the openness of the space. Bathing Above the City In the primary bathroom, a sculptural freestanding tub sits beside a panoramic window overlooking San Francisco’s hills and rooftops. The room’s palette—light oak, grey stone, and matte metals—reinforces the spa-like atmosphere. Floating cabinetry and integrated lighting maintain a sense of visual lightness despite the richness of the materials. Entertaining Above the Park Higher in the house, a lounge and bar area becomes the social heart of the home. Here, dark stone slabs with dramatic veining wrap the bar wall like a piece of monumental art. Open shelving displays glassware and spirits, while integrated wine storage hints at the home’s entertaining ambitions. A soft leather sectional and low glass table create a relaxed setting for conversation, framed by expansive views of the city skyline. Cinema and Retreat The lower level introduces yet another atmosphere: a dedicated media room designed for immersive viewing. Dark walls, plush seating, and soft lighting create a cinematic environment that contrasts intentionally with the airy upper floors. It’s a retreat within the home—intimate, quiet, and removed from the brightness above. Architecture That Balances Discipline and Warmth What makes the project particularly compelling is its balance between architectural discipline and lived warmth. Every element—from the carefully framed views to the restrained material palette—contributes to a cohesive spatial narrative. Yet the home never feels austere. Natural materials, curated art, and layered lighting create a sense of comfort and depth. The result is a house that feels both architecturally rigorous and deeply human. A Contemporary Interpretation of San Francisco Living In a neighborhood defined by historic homes and iconic park views, this transformation offers a contemporary interpretation of San Francisco living. It respects the city’s urban density while embracing openness, light, and vertical living. The home rises quietly above its surroundings, culminating in panoramic vistas that stretch across rooftops, hills, and sky. What began as a conventional structure has become something far more nuanced: a modern urban sanctuary—part gallery, part retreat, and wholly connected to the vibrant city just beyond its walls.

This project was purposefully neutralized in ocean grays and blues with accents that mirror a drama filled sunset. This achieves a calming effect as the sun rises in the early morning. At high noon we strived for balance of the senses with rich textures that both soothe and excite. Under foot is a plush midnight ocean blue rug that emulates walking on water. Tactile fabrics and velvet pillows provide interest and comfort. As the sun crescendos, the oranges and deep blues in both art and accents invite you and the night to dance inside your home. Lighting was an intriguing challenge and was solved by creating a delicate balance between natural light and creative interior lighting solutions.

A couple relocating to Lisbon found a property in a recently upgraded building with open layouts and modernized features. Our studio was entrusted to bring elegant comfort to the interior with carefully curated, custom-designed furniture and decor. From a blank canvas, the home was enlivened with walnut furnishings by Portuguese producers, warm-hued textiles in botanical motifs, and accents of delicate brass lighting. The entryway leads toward a spacious living room, where hand-woven rugs delineate areas for different activities. The first features a dining collection with upholstered shell chairs that comfortably envelop end-of-evening conversation. Midway, a daybed and display shelving system nestled under the lowered ceiling offer an intimate, yet versatile space. Stepping into the lounge, theatrical curtains reveal the pastel medley of Lisbon’s built landscape, the river, and hills in the distance. The dialogue of the room continues around a multi-tiered center table and featherweight pendant: a Brazilian modernist armchair faces a bespoke tufted-leather sofa, its throw cushions tailored to the palette of the media cabinet. Outside, the balcony’s slate lacquered dining set caters to convivial meals. Private appreciation is found in a pair of leisurely chairs adjacent to the bedroom, with a side table quoting the terracotta background. The main suite is endued with a crafted spindle bed dressed in deep blue linens and a lively made-to-measure embroidered bedspread. White Estremoz marble nightstands were designed to organize reading material and provide cable management. Circular ceramic lamps and bedside tables complement an ample upholstered bed to accommodate guests, and a floating console offers a discreet solution for remote meetings.

Custom cabinetry is where thoughtful kitchen design becomes truly personal. For this Broomfield custom kitchen, we designed a vented cabinet specifically to conceal a pull-out drying rack for hand-washed dishes. The interior includes a protective rubber base, giving delicate glassware, cookware, and everyday pieces a dedicated place to dry without taking over the island countertop. The cabinet door pattern was custom designed to work with the architecture and layout of the kitchen, then precision-cut on a CNC machine before being finished to match the surrounding cabinetry. The result is a highly customized storage solution that feels completely integrated into the kitchen design. At Vanessa Empire Interiors, we specialize in Broomfield interior design, custom kitchen design, space planning, cabinetry design, material selections, and highly considered storage solutions for remodels and new construction throughout Broomfield and the Denver metro area. Beautiful kitchens matter. But the best custom kitchens are designed around exactly how you live.

In the kitchen, a structural column was removed to make way for a huge island that ties into the threshold of the home using integrated bench detailing. We visually tied the reinforced beams together by cladding them in stained wood and creating slim reveal details. On the island, a lightly stained oak layer butts into the quartz countertop providing a semi-raised eating surface, open below for seating, creating two, working/eating zones. The kitchen backsplash adds a touch of sparkle, and was intentionally installed with an uncut edge providing a delicate scalloped detail along the wall.

In this coastal condo I limited the "sea shells" to these delicate bottles on a tray prominently displayed on the coffee table.
Living room - small transitional carpeted living room idea in Wilmington with blue walls, a standard fireplace, a tile fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Our client wanted to give his new apartment a more modern look and optimize the wasted space around the refrigerator. We proposed adding a spice rack and then extending the countertop to the side of the refrigerator to add more counter space. We also removed one of the cabinets by the window and put in floating shelves. For the refacing we used a satin gray laminate with the shelves in the same color. For the countertops they went with the Calacatta Ultra that is a white-based quartz with delicate gray veins that match the color of the doors. Next, we made a small backsplash around the counter in the same material and behind the stove we placed a full dark gray backsplash. Now the kitchen has the new look he was dreaming of.

Experience luxury living with our latest kitchen project, featuring stunning high-quality cabinets, a sleek quartz countertop, and a spacious island. This beautiful and delicate kitchen is designed to impress and built to last, with every detail meticulously crafted to perfection. From the stylish cabinet handles to the elegant pendant lighting, every element of this kitchen exudes sophistication and style. Whether you're a gourmet chef or simply love to entertain, this kitchen is the perfect space to cook, dine, and socialize with family and friends. Upgrade your home today with this stunning kitchen project from our expert team.

Heavy, durable materials like wood and metal balance nicely with delicate, natural items like flowers and clear glass.
Inspiration for a mid-sized industrial galley ceramic tile eat-in kitchen remodel in Seattle with a drop-in sink, recessed-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, tile countertops, black backsplash, ceramic backsplash, black appliances and no island

This luxury fully fitted sitting room interior with bookcases and media wall brings an impressive integrated aesthetic to our clients’ residence in Surrey. Beautifully crafted, the made to measure shelving units and storage cabinets are stunning to look at and have completely transformed the room’s atmosphere. The beauty is in the detail, with cleanly configured lines and lighted display spaces. Th warm tones of the natural oak complement the pale neutral spray-painted satin finish in Farrow & Ball’s Dimpse No 277. This cool, delicate grey works well in a contemporary scheme like this. Fully customised the built-in furniture creates a luxurious atmosphere with a visually cohesive and uninterrupted flow throughout the space. Contemporary TV media wall system This bespoke contemporary TV media wall has a book matched oak veneer back panel with matching plinth. Book matching arranges the veneer in a way that creates a mirror image effect like the pages of an open book. The oak panelling frames the screen creating a focal point in the room, while also providing a practical solution for concealing unsightly cables and wires. The attractive composition of this feature wall also includes floating display shelves to add decoration, and a lower suspended base cabinet with drop-down doors. The sleek, minimalist look is further enhanced by ambient underside LED lighting. The tall cabinet with a glass-fronted top section provides useful extra storage, again with handle-free flush fitting doors. Bespoke built-in library bookcase This bespoke floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall library bookcase and display cabinet acts as a stunning backdrop to our clients’ sitting room. Fully fitted, it has a seamless look that feels part of the architecture of the room. All the shelves are integrated into the build of the cabinets, with feature shelves at intervals lined in natural oak and illuminated to showcase artefacts and keepsakes. The layout also accommodates the room’s existing radiator, which is neatly concealed behind solid wooden slats. This construction provides a practical radiator cover while allowing for good airflow. seamless look that feels part of the architecture of the room.

With inspiration going back to antiquity, the ancient French farmhouse, or the vast bustling kitchen of chateau, our Range Hoods collections vary from the simply elegant to creations of intricate beauty, ranging in scale and style from delicate and understated to grand and majestic.

An impressively balanced mixture of isometric engineering and modern style. The Exeter Walnut Buffet features a solid body design perfectly offset with a delicate base that gives the impression of an almost weightless appearance. Constructed using high quality solid American black walnut hardwood, the Exeter Buffet is complimented flawlessly by Copeland’s Exeter Dining Table, Kyoto Chairs and Estelle Dining Chairs.

Delicate Moooi chandeliers over the dining table add contrast to the hard edges of the architecture.
Minimalist terrazzo floor and yellow floor kitchen photo in Philadelphia with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, marble backsplash, an island and white countertops

The ancient Greeks were renowned for their dedication to precision and craftsmanship. Employing delicately carved patterns and natural stone and wood furnishings, they crafted warm, inviting decor and architecture that harmonized with nature. Embrace the essence of Greek aesthetics with our faux column vases, offering both beauty and functionality to your space. This ensemble captures the serene allure of ceramics with its exquisite linear patterns, complemented by tobacco-colored frames, coasters, and candle holders, enhancing the ambiance with a sense of warmth and intimacy.

ABOUT THE PROJECT: These, like many of our clients, are multiple luxury home owners. As they traveled, inspiration turned into multiple renovation phases kept cohesive with our firm's design and construction. First the kitchen was opened up for their comfort and to maximize the incredible sea & marsh vistas, then the master bed made into a bed/bath suite, then the living room modernized. RENOVATONS: The in-house kitchen design maximized both practical comfort and entertainment which included extending the island and relocating the sink to the end of the island. Condo bylaws usually limit coring through floor slabs so the island was raised to accommodate the necessary plumbing underneath. To see the incredible sunsets over the marsh, the contiguous room walls were shortened and kitchen counterspace added. We fabricated rock maple custom cabinetry in a muted washed grey stain to capture the subtle definition of the wood grain. Storage was accommodated in for a butlers pantry with pullout trays to for practical reachable convenience. The kitchen's focal point is a custom niche surround for the Thermador gas range made practical for cooking incorporated uncials and spice access. A gorgeous tile backsplash the owner selected added the final panache and glitz which also complements the Cambia quartz countertops. Appliances are a 36" subzero refrigerator, Fisher Paykel two drawer dishwasher, Thermador 36" gas range suitable for creating delicate sauces, a custom hood, and a stainless drawer microwave. MASTER BATH renovation transformed two contiguous rooms into a luxury master suite. Removing several walls, we were able to design for a spacious double sink vanity and include a personalized makeup center while fitting the new shell floor tiles seamlessly to match the master bedroom flooring. Custom cabinetry with oak match booked lateral grain drawers form a unique monolithic style that flows as a tree would from one end to the other. Satin frameless glass doors were added to the shower and water closet for an airy - spa feel, while functioning for privacy. LIVING ROOM Entertainment cabinetry were added for travel mementos and electronics along with the removal of the traditional fireplace. In its place, a modern linear gas fireplace was installed with a Dekton heat safe solid surface face. CONTRACTOR's Note: We are privileged to know these friends. Both are exceptional individuals in their philanthropic efforts and qualities. We are honored to have their repeat confidence - the husband is a retired executive of one of the nation's largest and leading engineering & construction firms. - Matthew Winchenbach, CGC Location: OMNI AMELIA ISLAND PLANTATION, Fl.

A Window to the World Private Residence / Alys Beach, Florida Architect: Eric Watson Builder: Hufham Farris Construction Working with Hufham Farris Construction and architect Eric Watson on this beautiful and unique Alys Beach residence, we supplied a custom E. F. San Juan front entry door, custom interior windows for the wine cellar, custom exterior gates, exterior railings, exterior paneling and trim, and the magnificent Loewen® windows and doors that make a statement the moment you see the home. Challenges: Due to our limited production capacity in the wake of Hurricane Michael, providing custom millwork for this home was challenging, but our team was happy and proud to return to work after such a disaster. The primary challenge on this gorgeous 5,050-plus-square-foot residence designed by Eric Watson was the vaulted two-story wall of windows that comprises most of the facade. Another feature of this home is the incredible 600-bottle wine cellar on the first floor. Watson wanted this amenity to be a focal point for residents and guests, with large glass windows looking into the cellar from a hallway at the front of the house. Due to the delicate nature of wine and the need to protect the bottles from sunlight, this meant creating custom windows that would block the light while still allowing a view of the cellar from the outside. E. F. San Juan provided these custom windows that filter UV light and are airtight to keep out moisture and regulate the cellar’s temperature. Solution: We worked closely with our trusted partners at Loewen to supply the large, impact-rated windows for the home’s grand facade and throughout the property, along with exterior doors leading to the courtyard, balconies, and other outdoor living spaces. The E. F. San Juan team also created the accompanying millwork and matching exterior trim, railings, and more. Providing privacy, security, and beauty, the front entry door and driveway gates were also made by E. F. San Juan. This new-build home, completed in 2020, exudes the quintessential luxury and unique design acumen of Alys Beach. It was recently sold by agent Matt McGuire of Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty for $7.2 million—a record-breaking sale for residences north of Scenic Highway 30-A in the coastal South Walton area of Northwest Florida. E. F. San Juan is proud to be part of the talented team that created such a standout property in the affluent community of Alys Beach. —- Photography by Tim Kramer, courtesy of Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty

Unique Star is simply put, just that; the unique star in the AC Stone catalogue. Soft grey stone patterned with delicate layers of remarkably distinctive grey. veining in cloudy, sponged, webbed and cascading patterns. There really is nothing like it, and that is why it stands proudly in our Luxury Plus+ range.a