ISSUE NO. 19

A January Issue

There’s something about the way design speaks to us through its materials and details—it’s not just about what we see but what we sense. It’s the pieces that feel both grounded and fresh. It’s the world’s gentle reminder to us that the best design isn’t just functional—it holds quiet wisdom.

ARCHITECTURALLY CURIOUS

The Warmth of Walnut

I can’t over-emphasize enough the impact of incorporating timeless materials like walnut wood and natural stone. They bring both elegance and durability to any space. This 1,200 square foot renovation in Marbella, Spain achieves the perfect balance of modern organic minimalism with touches of refined rustic.

Flow Is an Art (Not a Science)

While principles like proportion, balance, and zoning tend to provide us with a solid foundation—creating seamless flow is all about our creativity and intuition. Each project challenges me to think beyond the rules and understand how people naturally move, interact, and feel in the space—bringing a more artistic and emotionally intelligent touch to the process.

Sleek, Strong, Stunning

The best part of clean-lined furniture and uncluttered spaces is that they let the architecture and materials take center stage. In this residence, metal brings a sleek, timeless appeal that creates a visually striking focal point in the kitchen. Whether polished or matte, its versatility adds depth and texture—creating a home that feels modern yet grounded.

GLOBAL GLIMPSE

Zihuatanejo: A Sensory Hotel That Speaks to the Soul

Originally designed as a family sanctuary, the Lyons Complex offers a serene getaway in Playa Blanca, Mexico. Featuring guest bedrooms, interior gardens, a lookout, and a pool with ocean views—it creates the perfect balance for emotional and spiritual transformation.

Blending Space & Texture

Organized around a central pergola axis—you flow effortlessly through interior gardens, a meditation pavilion, a multifunctional lounge, and a swim lane—creating a natural connection between interior and exterior. Materials like red tepetate stone and concrete reflect the region’s earthy tones—blurring the lines between human-made structures and the surrounding nature.

Elevating Your Senses

Every detail is intended to ignite a sensory experience. The sea views are meticulously framed by the architecture of a pavilion that lets light, rain, and wind flow into the space. These features create a timeless ambiance where nature and humanity coexist—creating an environment that encourages deep introspection and connection.

VISUAL COMFORT

More Than a Chair: A Movement

Debuting at Design Miami, the Flap Chair is a striking piece of furniture that features a bold vermillion color and sculptural form—similar to a soft-leather flap bag. I couldn’t help but think its aesthetic draws parallels to the Bottega Veneta cassette bucket bag—with its elegant interplay of material and structure.

Reinventing Rubber

Designed by Chamar Studio—for Æquo’s RUB IN collection—it draws inspiration from fashion and garment construction. The founder—Sudheer Rajbhar—harnessed his creative and collaborative skills to unite leather artisans in Bombay around a material that he has transformed: rubber—a durable and fibrous alternative to leather.

From Lifeline to Legacy

The concept emerged from his close work with the Dalit community in Dharavi—India’s largest slum in the heart of Mumbai. Initially, these artisans worked with leather but when beef was briefly banned in 2015, Sudheer was forced to introduce a new medium to make sure that the Dalit communities—who had lost their livelihoods—could continue their craft.

DESIGNER PICK

What I’m Currently Obsessing Over

Fortune Coffee Table

I’m absolutely loving this coffee table for its versatility and sculptural vibe. You can mix and match sizes and shapes to fit any space perfectly, and the burnished or polished stainless steel finish gives it such a sleek, modern look. The optional inlay adds a cool artistic touch, making it a standout piece for anyone who wants both style and function.

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

What I'm Listening to in January

With a new month comes a new studio playlist. I invite you to click on the color of the month image above—a bright warm Spanish-style blue—to see what’s inspiring us this January. I’ll see you next week, my friend.