Behind the Design with Thomas Cravero

Hi Everyone!

I am so excited today to re-start the Behind the Design series here on Stylishly Zen.  It’s been nearly a year since many of us around the world went into lock down, and in this time design and our spaces has become more important than ever before.  I first discovered today’s featured designer via Instagram, which many of you know is my favourite tool to learn, research and discover all things design.  Thomas Cravero is an incredibly talented Argentinian designer based in Buenos Aires.  His renders are absolutely captivating and discovering his work was eye opening to the infinite possibilities of what good design can achieve.  Here is Behind the Design with Thomas Cravero:

Did you always know that you wanted to work in architecture? Has it always been your passion?

Architecture in my life is a passion that was born from a very young age, I think that at 8 or 10 years old I already knew that one day I would be an architect

F065EBF1-3C73-423D-899F-3E726C332582How would you describe your design esthetic?

I would describe my aesthetic design as a dynamic architecture, something that activates all the senses when walking through it. That is, possibly my projects force the user to move, interact with the spaces. but also, I think it is a contemporary architecture that responds to the chaotic fluids of the modern era.

8C192F92-E0F2-49F6-8A5F-B6328944877FWhere do you find your inspiration from?

I find my inspiration, looking at great contemporary masters of architecture, masters who understand that architecture is not just a box, that there are different ways to enhance a space, a home, or a building.

What has been your most challenging project so far? Why was it so challenging?

I think that one of my most challenging projects was the project recently carried out in the city of Ibiza, I think the most difficult part of that project was being able to mark that beautiful landscape in an unusual way. Forcing the user to move within the space in order to find their perfect perspective towards the landscape.

B4A4D3FF-EAA9-4428-BA90-45D2CE84D296What is your favourite project to date?

I believe that the favorite project is always to come, one loves each project that he does, but without a doubt when you finish it, that project becomes one of the many that you execute, I think that the favorite project is born, when there is a client with give you the possibility of creating a new space, for me that is my favorite project from start to finish.

How long does it take for you to normally complete a project?

It all depends, the scale of the project, the client’s needs, on the other hand, also play an important role in the project stage, but I would tell you that a home can take approximately 6 weeks from start to finish, while a larger-scale project much more. weather. Anyway there are projects that are born in 1 week, all this depends on many factors.

57A2B6C9-8273-4B7C-9C37-FEF8A563CAC284619015-9341-4447-AA13-EBB6B4F419D9What is your favourite part about working in architecture?

I think the best part is being able to create and materialize something that exists in your mind and transform it into reality, it is created in the mind, it is born as a dream and it comes true.

Any favourite travel destinations that you like to escape too? Why?

In the last 5 years of my life, I dedicated myself to traveling through different countries, always trying to get to know new cities, cultures but fundamentally being able to visit emblematic works of architecture that many of us see in the world portals of contemporary architecture. I undoubtedly believe that much of the innovation of the project process is nurtured by traveling and understanding how the great masters act.In my case, I have dedicated my last trips to studying the architecture of Zaha Hadid.

How would you describe the design style/esthetic in Argentina?

I think Argentina had great masters of world architecture, Cesar Pelli, I think he was our last great master who left his legacy in many of the great cities. especially in Malaysia where I create the Petronas Towers. But I think that Argentina, fulfilled and fulfills a fundamental role both in the past, highlighting that the only house that the famous Le Corbusier built in Latin America was in Buenos Aires and emphasizing that the first tower of Zaha Hadid in Latin America will also be here

814C389A-EB8A-45A9-B300-17FEFEA8F737Do you have a favourite type of project to work on (private/commercial)? Why?

I don’t think I have something decided, I think that if architecture is necessary to improve the quality of life of any user, for me it is satisfactory to be able to execute it. but I would say that residential architecture is one of my favorites.

What wellness practices do you incorporate into your lifestyle to help you deliver such beautiful projects? (This can range from workouts, nutrition, meditation practice, etc)

Undoubtedly, I believe that the daily balance of rest, sport and physical activity, and mental relaxation is essential to be able to develop good projects, fundamentally I believe that the connection with nature opens the head in some way for new ideas.

0AA21B0E-1409-4CAF-99F0-21A573871B54Any words of wisdom for someone who is just starting out their design career?

I would advise them, to prepare, to study and to travel and look and experience different ways of projecting spaces, without a doubt it is a beautiful profession that gives you the freedom to make something that comes from a dream come true.

To see more of Thomas Cravero’s work please visit his Instagram profile @tc.arquitectura

Special thanks to Thomas Cravero for taking the time to be interviewed for Stylishly Zen.  All images courtesy of Thomas Cravero.

Thank you for visiting Stylishly Zen today!  I hope that you all have a beautiful day!  XXS

The Stratford London by Space Copenhagen

There are many things that I love about travelling. Like many people bitten by the travel bug, I relish the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, attempt to communicate in a new language, meet new people, try new food and learn more about this beautiful and diverse planet we call home. Another thing that I love about travelling is staying in a hotel. Now I realize that not everyone who travels enjoys this part of it (or even does it given the growing popularity of AirBnB), but I love it and spend an enormous amount of time researching hotels while making my travel plans. This may seem odd to some but I love the luxury of a good hotel, the thought that has gone into the design and the effort that is made for the guest to have an enjoyable experience. I have such great memories of my hotels throughout my travels: crawling into a dreamy bed with a pastel de nata and watching Chicago PD after a long day of sightseeing in Lisbon, trying my first Nepresso coffee thanks to the courtesy machine in my room in Barcelona or unwinding with a chilled glass of wine on my hotel room balcony in Madrid are just some of my favourites. So while travel has been put on hold for me at the moment I am still dreaming of the day that I will get back to enjoying my hotel experiences. The most recent hotel that I am dreaming about is The Stratford in London. This room was designed by the multi talented design team Space Copenhagen.

C28BC1B2-1DAF-42E8-8A4E-17F97E946FBB

Like all of Space Copenhagen’s projects this room is elevated elegance while staying true to their Scandinavian roots.  The colour palette is both welcoming and relaxing and the various textures and materials used add just the perfect amount of interest without being overwhelming.  

The bathroom is a marble oasis with a lust worthy tub to relax in after a busy day. The veining in marble adds interest and helps the eye to softly move throughout the space. Black fixtures and natural accents elevate this space to dreamy.

The countertop sink further elevates the slight Eastern influence, and coupled with the balance of fixtures successfully gives guests a subtle zen vibe throughout the space.

The colour palette and textures in the bedroom is my favourite thing about this space. From the natural wood floors to the softly coloured walls elegantly contrasting and elevating the hardware and colour of the furniture throughout the room. The gorgeous green of the bench and headboard of the bed has completely grabbed my attention and I will be looking of ways to incorporate it into my own space. Love it!

Overall, this dreamy refuge by Space Copenhagen has captured my attention and has me looking forward to dreamy future hotel visits.

Thank you for visiting Stylishly Zen today, I hope that you have a safe and beautiful day! XXS

All images via http://www.spacecph.dk

Behind The Design with Annaliesse Kelly

Hi Everyone!

Today’s Behind the Design is very exciting for me as it is the first Canadian designer that I have featured on this series.  Annaliesse Kelly is the principal of Annaliesse Kelly Design & Consulting based in Vancouver, British Columbia.  AK Design is a full service interior design firm with a clear focus on working with their clients thru the design process to complete interiors that their clients have dreamed of and meet their needs.  The result is clean, elegant interiors that are welcoming and functional.  Without further adieu here is Stylishly Zen’s Behind the Design with Annaliesse Kelly:

  1. Did you always know that you wanted to work in interior design? Has it always been your passion?

Always.  My mother was an interior designer and I was always hording her interior design magazines when I was growing up.AK_Haywood_Web-18

  1. How would you describe your design esthetic?

I hate that question!  I like to say that we don’t sell a look we sell a service.  Function proceeds form and we focus on what works well for your home.  We collaborate with interior architects to design and plan what you need for your home to work or you.  This includes everything from floorplans, lighting details, staircases, etc.  Then we work in our esthetic of clean lines and balanced elegance.  We try to have fun with our spaces.

  1. Where do you find your inspiration from?

Our client’s inspiration boards (we give them the tools to help to show us what they like), partners we collaborate with, trend research from social media, fashion, and travelling.20190705_AK_DESIGNS_1055RICHARDS-09

  1. What has been your most challenging project to date?

We are currently working on a project in Strathcona that is both challenging and very exciting.  The home is 100 years old and we have to be mindful of building codes that apply to historical buildings.  The lot is very small but quite high so access is difficult.  We are lifting the house to put a basement below which again comes with its own set of challenges.

  1. How long does it take for you to normally complete a project?

That’s impossible to answer – it depends on the project.  A condo can take 6months and a house can be well over a year.

  1. You have worked on a variety of projects from residential to commercial, one on one with clients to development projects, do you have a favourite type of project to work on?

I enjoy them all, it’s about the people and it’s a privilege to help them.  I like different aspects for different reasons. One on one for helping people curate their dreams, development projects for branding.  It’s all a journey of discovery and forward thinking.AK_Design_1535_Vine_St_Web-13

  1. What has been your favourite project to work on so far?

My company.  I love working with people

  1. Any favourite travel destinations that you like to escape too?Why?

NYC for the incredible design and varied architecture and businesses.  I love the colours in California.  I also love travelling to Europe, I am headed to Spain in the spring.AK_Haywood_Web-44

  1. Vancouver is a well-known wellness city; do you have any wellness practices that you have incorporated into your life to help you deliver such wonderful projects?

Go to bed at 9 and wake up at 6, exercise, good food and meditation at times.  Even just getting outside and going to a walk can help.

  1. Any words of wisdom for someone who is just starting out their design career?

Trust yourself, try not to compare yourself to others and think outside of the box.  Be brave!  There is so much space for everyone!20190705_AK_DESIGNS_1055RICHARDS-10

Thank you so much Annaliesse for taking the time to do this interview.  All images courtesy of Annaliesse Kelly Design.  To see more of Annaliesse’s designs please visit http://www.annaliessekellydesign.com

Thank you everyone for stopping by Stylishly Zen and I hope that you have a beautiful day!  XXS

Inspiring Design

Hi Everyone!

Today’s Inspiring Design is a gorgeous Victorian home located in San Francisco.  Victorian homes have always had a special place in my heart since I saw Mrs. Doubtfire when I was younger.  When I first saw pictures of this house, I was expecting beautiful and classic design, but with each picture that I saw my jaw dropped further to the floor.  It is widely billed as the former home of actress Meg Ryan but the home has undergone quite the transformation since. When the current owners purchased the home in 2014, they hired local architect Tim Murphy to update the home which included a new kitchen, master suite, family room and upstairs lounge.   IMG_7761Murphy was able to retain a lot of the original magic of the space by keeping the gorgeous crown molding and millwork throughout the home.    IMG_7762Interior design firm Nicole Hollis was also hired early in remodel process to consult on interior finishes, hardware and custom cabinetry along with the furnishings and the majority of the decorative lighting among other things.  The front living room is particular favourite (first image).  I love the contrast of the marble accents with the chevron walnut flooring against the navy, grey and white colour palette.  IMG_7755IMG_7756The house is 7050 square feet with five bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms.  The blend of classic and modern throughout the home is stunning, but the incredible bay views is what really made this Victorian home stand out to me.  IMG_7759Sliding doors in the kitchen which open onto a terrace offer breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay.  The kitchen itself is a dream with a waterfall marble island, exquisite custom cabinetry and top of the line appliances.  IMG_7758Adjacent to the kitchen is the family room and the dining room, both of which offer beautiful views of the bay as well.  Aside from the beautiful view, I am completely in love with the sculptural smoked glass lighting fixture hanging above the dining room table.  Gorgeous!IMG_7757The most incredible room in this house though is on the top floor.  The upstairs lounge offers panoramic views of the city and the bay, including offering unobstructed views of Angel Islands and Alcatraz.  The lounge opens to a stunning terrace which houses a fire pit to help create a cozy atmosphere.  The views from there both day and night are fantastic and it looks like the most incredible spot to unwind with a glass of wine after a long week.  IMG_7753IMG_7752All information and images are from http://www.dwell.com and you can find more images for this gorgeous home here.  

Thank you for stopping by Stylishly Zen today and I hope that you are safe and have a beautiful day!  XXS

Five Faves

As this year (and this decade) wind down, it feels like the days are going faster and there have been more then a few moments where I am struggling to stay in the moment.  Does anyone else feel this way or is it just me?  With two months left in 2019 my goal is to try and stay in the moment as much as possible, develop a deep breathing practice that I can actually stick to (I will keep you posted on how that goes), and work on things that actually make me happy such as this blog and decorating my apartment.  For now though, here are the five things that I am currently loving:

FRANKIE_IMG_5625_Sleeveless_Shoulder_Padded_Tee_White

It was love at first sight when I first saw this padded shoulder t-shirt on Instagram and the fact that it was sold out only made me want it more (clearly I am a marketer’s dream).  Despite the fact that it is ridiculously expensive for a t-shirt, I signed up for the waitlist and immediately ordered it when it (finally!) came back into stock. The quality is fantastic and it fits really well.  As basic as this t-shirt may seem to some, it makes me really happy and I love wearing therefore making it my perfect t-shirt.

fullsizeoutput_23a6

While I haven’t seen every episode, I occasionally enjoy watching My Next Guest with David Letterman.  While scrolling thru Netflix the other day though, I came across his most recent special featuring Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and I nearly screamed with excitement.  While I rarely have an opportunity to enjoy a Bollywood movie, like many other people on this planet Shah Rukh Khan is one of my favourite actors – he is just so damn cool!  The interview was fantastic as he is charismatic, humble, articulate and interesting.  I highly encourage you to check out this special to see just why this man is one of the most famous actors on the planet even if you have never heard of him before this.

IMG_6578

This cashew butter is a recent discovery for me and it is safe to say that I am hooked.  Made in small batches, Logan Petit Lot’s mission is to offer new twists on classic flavours of nut butters.  Cashew Coffee is by far my favourite and I enjoy a spoonful on top of my chia pudding every morning.  It has minimal ingredients, taste great and I love the fact that it is locally made – a win win in my opinion.

fullsizeoutput_23b3

I have heard a lot about a lot of the benefits of positive thinking and yes I have read The Secret in the hopes that it would help me to shift my mindset and put me on a more positive path.  Needless to say I find it a struggle to keep a positive and focused mindset all of the time and I tend to fall off of the proverbial bandwagon fairly often.  When I heard about Gabrielle Bernstein’s new book though, I was willing to give the whole attracting your dreams to you concept another try.  I have not yet finished reading it, but so far it is an enjoyable read that offers a number of tools to help you to attract what you want into your life.  This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to put in the effort, but this book helps you to become more self aware.  I am by no means willing to say that I am some success story, aside from greater self awareness I don’t think that there has been any other shifts in my life at the moment.  But even if the only thing that I get from this book is greater self awareness I will be happy that I read this book.

IMG_7530

I have been in love Eye Swoon’s Athena Calderone’s New York home from the moment that I saw it.  It has since been profiled (along with Athena herself) in a few major publications including Architectural Digest and Porter magazine.  I recently came across this image of her living room on Pinterest and I once again fell in love with this space as it is chic and modern, yet comfortable and cool.  Athena has managed to strike just the right balance of fabulous throughout her home.  This picture along with many others of the home are on my vision board to help motivate me to capture the same vibe and perfect balance in my own home.

Thank you for stopping by today, let me know what you are loving this month in the comments below!  XXS

Images via http://www.frankieshop.com, netflix.com and http://www.pinterest.com