Born in Udine, Italy, Alex Turco is an innovative artist known for his striking floor to ceiling decorative panels that ingeniously combine the art of photography with the skill of multi-media graphics. As the son of a painter, Alex was always encouraged to explore his artistic passions and refine his skills and techniques. Having experienced some commercial success, he opened a flagship store in Miami’s Design District in 2009. This is where we, the team at Avanzato Design, first came face to face with the beauty in his elegant works of art. Having recently used his pieces in a conceptual design for the W Hotel residence in Miami Beach, we found that his illustrations created the perfect accent to our styled interiors by adding a hint of magic and innovation. In the master bedroom we featured a purple monolith stone design and in the guest bath a stunning Celestine agate stone.
PALETTE TRENDS: Prestige Of Linen
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The fabric we have chosen for this month’s palette trends is a concept that takes you back to the origins to spice up a room with African patterns, deep colors paired with earth tones, on beautiful linen and cotton fabrics. Linen is reflective of a natural look, and it is not understood by everyone as it tends to have a worn look that is hard to imitate by other natural fibers. It has a beautiful earthy feel to its natural or dyed yarns, and it is known for its ability to stay fresh in hot weather, but it has a down side commitment is required since it wrinkles easily.
“Linen enthusiasts” appreciate the complex work that goes into producing it. Its hand has a specific characteristic that is less coarse today than it used to be (which is greatly appreciated) but still defining and even imitated, the weave of linen is copied by less wrinkly fibers to achieve the look and prestige of linen. It comes from the versatile flax plant, one of the oldest plants known; consequently linen is also one of the oldest fibers used after leather and wool, essentially because man went from hunting, to shepherding, to planting.
Linen is perceived as a vestment of purity. Used by many ancient priests probably because of its cleanliness and resistance to germs. Proof of this are the mummies of Egyptian pharos which were found with intact linen fabrics while other fabrics disintegrated or rotted away. It was so treasured in Egyptian times that it was valued as currency. Linen’s history, unmatched qualities and symbolism render it a fabric of stature today, and in times to come as it is written in the book of revelation that those going to heaven are dressed in fine linen, so it is safe to assume that there is a textile industry in heaven and therefore interior designers for all!
- TALISH, FIG LINEN /KRAVET
- EVERGLADE, ROAST LEATHER /LARSEN
- ART OF DESIGN, CORAL CAPRI /KRAVET
- ANOLA, MAZE 10% LINEN /KRAVET
- SOHO, POTIRON /MANUEL CANOVAS
- 28931, 1619 /KRAVET
- LIMA, PIMENT-SAFRAN /MANUEL CANOVAS
- JENTRY, CLAYPOT / KRAVET
- CEYLON KEY, SPUNGOLD /KRAVET
- INTERNODE, PAPRIKA /KRAVET
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Ceramic Artist - Erin McGuiness
For this week’s “Designer’s Pick” we’re introducing California based artist Erin McGuiness, an accomplished sculptor recognized for her elegant hand-coiled vessels made from a mixture of stoneware and porcelain. Each piece is a one of a kind work of art built up using a method of design called “coil building,” a process in which thin pieces of clay are flattened out and stacked vertically to create the forms of each vessel. Her collection includes beautiful showpieces that are made to be cherished by those with a deep appreciation for beauty, history and art.
Ferdinand Cheval
In 1879, at the age of 43, a postman by the name of Ferdinand Cheval began an exceptional undertaking that would greatly influence his life, and subsequently the course of art history. During one of his many travels throughout France, he stumbled upon a small stone that, due to its unique shape and form, captured his attention and sparked his imagination. Thoroughly intrigued, Cheval began collecting these rocks, wheeling them back to his garden. These stones were eventually used as the foundation to one of the most extraordinary works of architectural design ever conceived. Equipped with no previous design experience, Cheval worked by trial and error to build this stunning work of art now known as the “Palais.” Influenced in design by the Assyrian ruins and Aztec temples, Cheval used local lime mortar and pure ingenuity to create a dramatically styled design overflowing with imagination and creativity. It’s hard to believe that such a remarkable undertaking was a result of one man’s labor of love.
In 1969, the Palais was declared a national monument in France. To this day, it continues to be an inspiration to architects and artists from around the world as many travel far and wide to catch a glimpse of its beauty.
PALM BEACH FAIRY
Can’t believe January is almost over! After all the little things we do in order to transition into the new year; attending parties, family gatherings, setting our schedules, cleaning out and setting new goals, we hopefully still feel the refreshing spirit of starting with a clean slate. If taking time to slow down is on your new year’s resolution list, let us introduce a great fabric scheme to spend some quality time with. This month we are delighting in a wonderfully soothing colour palette. We are using lilac to evoke tranquility, it is a consistently cool restful hue throughout the chosen silks, velvet and patterned fabrics coupled with ”the green fairy” also known in French as “La Fée Absinthe”. This notorious elixir of absinthe wood, anise and spices, is a natural spirit yet is also intoxicating and esteemed as a bohemian beverage. Designers of every kind are captivated by the depth of its light green shade, well illustrated in this beautifully white-embroidery on silk (#6) as well as hints of it in the embroidered linen (#7). Other shades of green help ground the palette with a lighter willow shade and a deeper green-tea silk, interestingly both are colours found in our lush Florida vegetation. The clean whites give an airy “Palm Beach” look; fabulous, fresh, and sunny. Perfect for taking time off to indulge.
- SOLANGE, PARME /MANUEL CANOVAS
- VERSAILLES VELVET /KRAVET
- PAVILLON SILK, GREEN TEA /KRAVET
- CHARLES, LILAS /MANUEL CANOVAS
- COUTURE HERRINGBONE, WILLOW /GLANT
- STARS, ABSINTHE /MANUEL CANOVAS
- BEAUREGARD, ABSINTHE, TURQUOISE /MANUEL CANOVAS
DESIGNER’S PICK OF THE MONTH: Glass Artist Robert Kaindl
For this week’s Designer’s Pick, we’ve chosen to introduce a collection of custom hand blown glass works designed by international glass artist Robert Kaindl. Each piece, uniquely styled, would make a stunning visual in any space to which they were introduced. From intricately detailed table ornaments to large scale sculptural works of art, Kaindl’s masterpieces are a result of a tremendous amount of physical toil as well as attention to detail. Each piece is a creative expression of his imagination. Working to exceed his client’s expectations while still staying true to his artistic vision, Kaindl has successfully put together an exciting collection overflowing with color and expressive design. We love it!
DESIGNER’S PICK OF THE MONTH: Favrile Glass Vases
A well designed vase is visually intriguing enough to stand alone without decorative accessories or fillers. For this week’s “Designer Pick” we’ve chosen to introduce a stunning collection of Favrile glass vases from the Corning Museum. The art of Favrile glass making is a technique, invented by Louis Comfort Tiffany, that was first introduced to the public in 1896. Differing from traditional iridescent glass designs, during the process of Favrile glass construction, color is infused into the glass itself instead of being layered onto the finished surface. The end result is a brilliant design with a very distinctive color way and flair. When styling a space, these vases are great for adding visual depth and interest.
Liberty Mosaic Tiles
Liberty is a stunning contemporary collection of mosaic tiles designed by Giulio Candussio for TREND. Made up of an array of colors, each Liberty pattern was heavily inspired by the geometrically styled designs so often associated with the Art Deco movement. By mixing traditional principles of construction with a modern outlook on design, TREND was able to put together a beautiful collection that represents the highest quality of both craftsmanship and design. Featured below are just a few of the many color combinations and styles featured in the Liberty line. Take a look and be inspired!
TIMELESS PALETTE
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We are working with a diverse and versatile palette of hues, using classic patterns that capture a traditional romance with delicate shapes. Our chosen fabrics transcend with rich modern colors and achieve a timeless look with crown patterns like the brocatelle in amatista-red, or the craft details of white embroidery on silk, likewise, the brocade of vines on a teal-mineral ground, the deep violet cotton velvet, or the purple matelassé with its plush quilted pattern all evoke enduring luxury. Warm indigo blue and crimson red blend with variations of copper for a color scheme that is adaptable to comfortable spaces as well as refined settings. Primary and tertiary colors meet halfway celebrating their union in a flamboyant encounter, completing the atmosphere with earth tones. The gentleness of the beige serves as an undertone and compliments the intensity and strength of the dominant colors. This unique blend of colors combines for a sophisticated result.
- FAUST, 4/ BERGAMO
- SOLSTICE AGAPANTHUS/ VILLAROMO
- ONDE MATELASSE, URCHIN/ DONGHIA
- SUMMER PALACE, MINERAL/ KRAVET
- CONCERTO, INDIGO/ ARDECORA
- PALAIS ROYAL TAPE/ HOULES
- CASTIGLIONE/ BERGAMO
- PALAIS ROYAL TRIM/ HOULES
- SAGA/ ZIMMER + ROHDE
- DAPHNIS/ HOULES
Design Miami 2012
After having attended the Design Miami 2012 exhibition for the first time this past week, I realized that I had been missing out on a crucial part of the Miami design culture. The showing is a global forum for collectors, gallerist, curators and critics that allows one the means of showcasing and discussing exciting and innovative ideas involving furniture, lighting and art. Featured below are a few collections from the exhibition that caught our eye.
Upon entering the pavilion that housed the 2012 Design Miami event, guests were immediately greeted by the “Drift,” a large scaled sculptural design created by Janelle Zara. The display was made using inflated tubes that had been bundled together and suspended from the ceiling. This created in the space a towering topographical effect. The end result completely transformed the entry, making for a striking visual and setting the stage for what was to come.
“Lost In Time” is an amazing display put together by Glithero that featured beautifully layered and draped chains suspended over water. Accented with soft lighting, the reflection created for viewers a calming aura and breathtaking view.
This contemporary collection entitled SEOMI, was put together by various Korean designers who all worked together towards the goal of combining visual art with functional design. Each piece, meticulously hand made, showcases an impeccably high level of craftsmanship as traditional Korean techniques were combined with contemporary designs. Minimalistic in construction, each furnishing could standalone as a unique one of a kind work of art.
Naturoscopie is a limited edition collection of lighting, shelves, tables and mirrors designed entirely from synthetic materials. Each piece, made to read somewhat like a shadow box, becomes instantly intriguing when paired with its organically shaped frame. To create the functioning showpiece, LED lights were encased with mirrors and colored surfaces to produce a unique output of color and movement.
DESIGNER'S PICK OF THE MONTH: Terje Lundaas
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For this week’s Designer Pick, we’ve chosen to introduce a collection of custom created glass works designed by international artist Terje Lundaas. Each piece, uniquely styled, sets the stage for an incredibly stunning visual. After spending time teaching the art of glass blowing at the University of Miami in Florida, Terje has put together a collection of intricately detailed works ranging from table ornaments to large scale chandeliers and sculptures. Each creation stems from an immense amount of effort and detailed design to make each piece a unique display. The result is a successful assortment of glass works overflowing with color and expressive design. We love it!
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DESIGNER'S PICK: White Plaster Furniture
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This week’s “Designer’s Pick” showcases a beautiful collection of crafted furnishings and accessories all made from plaster. The first documented use of this layered technique, which involves applying lime or gypsum to a water and sand base, started around the Egyptian era where it was often used for decorative wall and ceiling treatments. The design became somewhat of a Hollywood obsession around the 1930’s when white furnishings became a popular trend. Short lived, the obsession quickly died down as the material was soon frowned upon for its brittle and seemingly frail nature. Today, with very few original designs having survived the test of time, these plastered furnishings have become extremely rare and also extremely valuable. The off white pigmentation works to give each piece a whimsical aesthetic with delicate detailing that echoes on the designs so often seen throughout the Neoclassical era.
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DESIGNER'S BOOK PICK: Alberto Pinto Table Settings
Alberto Pinto Table Settings
Transform your table setting into a breathtaking display layered with an array of textures, beautiful floral arrangements and stunning accents with a little help from our book pick “Table Settings” by Alberto Pinto. The book transports you to a world of enchantment where luxurious fine dining and embellished place settings are a must. Pinto is a master at tailoring his designs to create classically elegant ambiances and exceptionally chic décors. From seaside dining to formal affairs, Pinto has a setting to match every style and occasion. Just in case you’re still debating on whether or not his book would make a great addition to your home library, we’ve featured a few photos that are sure to convince you!
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chic luxury table settings
Luxury table settings
Design ideas Table settings
DESIGNER'S PICK: Aboriginal Art
For today’s “Designer Pick” we’re taking a look inside a collection of astounding artwork created by Australian Aborigines. The assortment of vivid paintings, all created to illustrate the richness and beauty found in their native land and culture, date back to the 1970s in the Western Desert of Australia. Here aborigines would gather in small groups and work collectively on striking paintings created on top of wooden board scraps. As their works became more refined, acrylics were then used on canvases to capture the richness and overall earthy palette that has become a signature to the collection. Each piece would make for a stunning display and a treasured keepsake to anyone with an appreciation for art and an eye for beauty.
PALETTE TRENDS: Warm creams and violets
This month we are presenting a gentle palette with a touch of romance. Warm creams and violets blend for a colour scheme that is easy on the eye. Create interest with a variation of pale to rich creams and compliment the subtle ambiance with woods that are stained in light warm smoky finishes. A creamy sage is very close to the yellow family in the color wheel and it uplifts the neutrals with the freshness of nature. The softness of the creams guide you through the textured and patterned fabrics, which conclude with a touch of a strong royal violet. The soft vibes in this composition are perfect for an intimate setting, a romantic bedroom or a vintage party theme.
Palette Trends Warm creams
- WALNUT WITH CUSTOM SMOKE STAIN
- ROELINDA – DUKE/ ROGERS & GOFFIGON
- SARGENT SILK TAFFETA/ SCHUMACHER
- SHORELINE – RAY/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
- KERALA/ ZIMMER ROHDE
- BLEACHED OAK WITH LIGHT STAIN CERUSE FINISH
- WALL TO WALL/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
- CUSTOM COLOR/ TOWNSEND LEATHER
- PIQUE –PARCHMENT/ ROGERS & GOFFIGON
- MARRAKESH –GRAPE/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
- SOIREE –MIDORI/ GP/ HOLLY HUNT
- MONTACUTE –ALPINA/ ROGERS & GOFFIGON
DESIGNER'S PICK: Wood Turning
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Today we’re celebrating the refined beauty and craftsmanship found in the art of wood turning. By using non-traditional techniques to reinvent traditionally styled designs, modern day artists gain the freedom and ability to express themselves creatively with wood, reinventing the material and creating an entirely new aesthetic. Featured below are innovative examples, all taken from Michigan collector Robert Bohlen’s personal selections, which were acquired during world travels. Each piece, skillfully made, was created not merely for function, but to stand-alone as a captivating piece of art.
Wood turning Dirk Bakker
Wood turning Dirk Bakker
Style: Eclectic Modern
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Today I’m going to share with you a few ideas on how to properly put together an eclectic modern décor that creates a comfortable space with a well lived-in feel. I like to create this by using a mixture of modern and one of a kind contemporary pieces.
Modern furnishings and classic touches
This space features the perfect combination of modern furnishings mixed with classic touches. With no window treatment, the natural light floods the interior and is enhanced by the white walls. The pieces are kept minimal, yet every selection makes a bold decorative statement. When designing with modern furnishings, it’s important not to overcrowd the space and to allow each piece to breathe. This can often be a challenge to execute as you don’t have the leeway of pulling the décor together with extra details and accessories.
Eclectic Modern furniture
Eclectic Modern furniture John Houshmand
These exquisitely crafted furniture sculptures designed by John Houshmand combine beauty and art with functional forms. Each piece is simple yet powerful. Contemporary interiors are often thought of as cold and uninviting, but this is a huge misconception. The effect you wish your space to convey depends heavily on your choice of materials. Wood is a great material selection for contemporary design, as It creates the feeling of traditional comforts. The warm tones and neutral palettes result in a calming place to lounge.
Eclectic Modern Decor
Eclectic Modern furnishing
The hardest part in pulling together a cohesive eclectic décor is picking the appropriate furnishings. These classically modern pieces have a timeless feel. They exude high style and are filled with character. Depending on your space, the pieces should take advantage of the structural elements in your home and compliment the architectural details. When it comes to a modern interior, less is always more.
The Louis Ghost chair designed by Philippe Starck
The Louis Ghost chair designed by Philippe Starck
Designed by Philippe Starck, although seen in an array of colors, the Louis Ghost chair is a modern rendition of the classic Louis XV chair. It’s chic with an element of playfulness and works well in areas where space is limited as its clear frame takes up little visual space.
Modern design the Barcelona chair
The Barcelona chair is the epitome of modern design in form and composition. Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, its form exudes luxury style with a frame that is artistically beautiful. You are sure to make a statement with the incorporation of this elegant chair in your living space.
Modern furnishing the Eames Wire chair
Modern Eames Wire chair
The popular Eames Wire chair is simple and sleek. The texture that’s created by the grid frame, as well as the linear shadows it casts, makes it a feature. Whether it’s casual lounging or high-style dining, this piece can be dressed up or down to fit any décor.
Modern Egg Chair
The Egg Chair is a chair that invites you to come in and lounge. Placed in a room, it immediately catches your eye. This fashionable furnishing, graceful in form, was designed by Arne Jacobsen. It would work well in many living spaces where wrapped in its frame you can spend time relaxing.
Eclectic Modern Decor
Eclectic Modern Style
The insertion of a pendent light can change the entire dynamic of a space. Large industrial lighting fixtures can add an element of interest and drama. Stylishly oversized they become a focal feature. They can be traditional, modern or casual, as long as they work well with the arrangement and create a sense of cohesion.
PALETTE TRENDS: Bronze
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A cool bronze palette, enriched with time and personality. This bronze fabric combination is sophisticated with cream accents, midnight blue and steel grey highlights. Perfect for a transitional décor; bronze first gained popularity long ago but it has made a successful come-back in the past few years. We pair it with textures revealing craftsmanship and compliment it with contemporary metallic fabrics for a balanced transitional space. It is important to follow through in your décor, take the same transitional concept and use furniture that mixes straight lines and curves, or a mixture of traditional and contemporary furniture. Then carry on to the walls, lighting and accessories. In design this kind of attention to detail is called language, and it ensures your interiors are consistent and pleasant. If you can’t get enough bronze, here’s a place for indulgence.
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- LEATHER/ HOLLY HUNT
- VENETIAN GLASS, QUICKSILVER/ HOLLY HUNT
- SHEER LUCK, CIRCUMSTANCE/ HOLLY HUNT
- EUROSUEDE, ALMOND/ MOKUM
- AMAZED, BRONZE PATINA/ HOLLY HUNT
- GRANAFEI, 1/ BERGAMO
- ILLUSION, ECLIPSE/ HOLLY HUNT
- GREAT EXPECTATIONS, DEW DROPS/ HOLLY HUNT
- CELERIE III / VALTEKZ
DESIGNER’S PICK OF THE MONTH: Windsor Chair
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Today’s “Designer Pick” is a reflection on the classic Windsor chair, a design that has been extremely popular in many traditionally styled homes. Much like the original design, these new renditions all display curved wooden slit backs often formed using steam-bent pieces of wood. Designer Tom Dixon took the initiative of giving a modern contemporary touch to his Windsor model calling it The Fan Chair. Built on a carefully cut wood spindle with wooden sticks that are properly turned and arranged, his chairs showcase a circular base and an angular semicircle back rest. The result is a totally new look on an otherwise traditional design. The Fan Chair, cushioned with leather is available in two shades; indigo and natural wood. If you are in love with Windsor chairs, but can’t compromise with your modern room theme, then The Fan Chair is for you!
Displaying Art
Displaying artwork in a way that is visually enticing while seemingly enhancing the overall scheme of an interior can create a challenge. When choosing what type of art should be showcased, let the artwork speak for itself. When designing a space, I tend to select artwork after the interior is completed so I’m not influenced by the color pallet of the piece. Although, if one has in their collection a special piece they want to use, the colours of the art can be utilized to help unify the space and create a visually balanced composition.
In this featured living area, a wall panel is displayed like a beautiful backdrop for two native sculptures placed above the mantel. Using a traditional decorative frame and Venetian stucco on the panel, the artwork stands out creating a bold display. To balance the room, a stunning midnight blue painting was selected, anchoring the sitting area. Taking inspiration from our client’s passions is helpful in creating a space that they will love. For this open and airy bathroom interior we actually had another piece in mind to be hung above the bathtub, only after learning of the clients love of crocodiles did we decide to select this subtle interpretation. It’s a perfect addition as it merges effortlessly with the overall color scheme. As for the bedroom (right), we inserted a pair of elegant bronze plaques with Indian Sanskrit. They each become a strong focal point when entering the room.
The above painting by Markus Oehlen was a last minute addition to this living area. It may seem as if the room was decorated around it or that the painting was personalized, but it was in fact a later addition that seemingly could not have made a better fit.
In the dining room above, as opposed to the previous image, the artwork was the first item I acquired for the client and in many ways set the theme for the room. In the design the showpiece was placed on the wall opposite to the window creating a counter focal point. Tying in the chosen color palette, the entire color scheme visually flows as the hues are effectively repeated throughout.
Sometimes less is more, crisp white walls make the perfect backdrop to a focal piece that might otherwise be overlooked. Highlighting the image with direct lighting will keep the frame from fading in the shadows. Typically, each piece should be hung around 60-66 inches from the floor or the average person’s eye level, but then again it really depends on what type of art is being displayed and the overall composition.
Large scaled works will create an immediate focal point and should be placed on walls where they can be seen and enjoyed. Smaller pieces, such as family photos, often work well grouped together in a gallery type setting. They may be placed in similar mattings and frames to make for a stronger visual and cohesive arrangement.