Tag: Best Designers
The Best of Richard Neutra Design: Rustic Canyon Residence
Richard Neutra (1892–1970) was an Austrian-American architect renowned for introducing the International Style to American architecture and developing the California Modern aesthetic in residential design. His work is characterized by clean lines, simple geometric forms and a harmonious integration with the natural environment. Richard Neutra’s designs often featured expansive glass walls and open floor plans, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. He believed that architectural design should be attuned to human physiology and psychology, creating environments that promote health and comfort. Neutra’s legacy endures through iconic projects such as the Lovell Health House in Los Angeles and the Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs.
A Contemporary Interpretation of Richard Neutra’s Design Principles
Perched atop a canyon in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, the Rustic Canyon Residence stands as a modern homage to Richard Neutra Design’s architectural legacy. Originally built in 1923 and remodeled by Neutra in 1937, the original structure was unfortunately destroyed in 1993. In its place, Assembledge+ and Jamie Bush + Co have crafted a residence that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, embodying the principles of organic modernism.
“The current design of Rustic Canyon Residence seeks to restore this lost architectural unity, paying homage to its historical roots while integrating the principles of organic modernism.
This project reflects the core of our design philosophy – creating warm, modern spaces that celebrate natural materials, craftsmanship, quality, and a sense of humanity,” the team said.
The design emphasizes a harmonious relationship with nature, featuring a terraced layout that mirrors the canyon’s contours and extensive use of Western Red Cedar cladding both inside and out. This material choice not only pays tribute to Neutra’s aesthetic but also fosters a treehouse-like ambiance, allowing the home to blend organically with the landscape.
Jamie Bush + Co’s interior design complements the architectural vision by incorporating elements of Japanese and Brazilian modernism, resulting in a nuanced yet cohesive aesthetic that bridges openness, nature and thoughtful design. The careful selection of materials, including brick, cork, ebonized oak and black metal, enhances the home’s connection to its environment.
Key features include a custom Brutalist-style interior mural on the fireplace by Stan Bitters. Additionally, Bush and his team have curated pieces from various artisans and makers, with a particular emphasis on wooden furniture.
Embracing Organic Modernism: The Rustic Canyon Residence and Richard Neutra’s Influence
The Rustic Canyon Residence offers expansive views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This lush area is renowned for iconic homes by architects such as Ray Kappe, Lloyd Wright and Richard Neutra.
The home’s elevated, treehouse-like allure is enhanced by its timber-clad upper floors, where bedrooms are seamlessly nestled among the treetops. These spaces boast floor-to-ceiling windows, dissolving the boundary between the warm, wooden interiors and the sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains. As David Thompson, Assembledge+, notes these expansive windows “intensify the immersive experience of living within the trees, offering a secluded yet open retreat infused with intimate comfort.”
“The design reflects a modern yet timeless approach, balancing clean lines and natural materials to restore the home’s modernist heritage while creating a serene retreat that exudes sophistication and warmth,” David Thompson, Assembledge+, said.
Internally, the residence offers a balance between expansive communal areas and intimate private spaces. The lower level is illuminated with natural light and includes a theater, music room and guest accommodations. Upstairs, the primary suite and office boast panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains, providing a serene retreat.
The Rustic Canyon Residence exemplifies how contemporary design can honor historical influences while creating a living space that is both functional and deeply connected to its natural context.
Project credits:
Architecture Design: Assembledge+
Interiors: Jamie Bush + Co
Landscape: Chris Sosa Landscape and Terremoto
Construction: Ceci Clarke Construction
Structural Engineering: Labib Funk + Associates
Styling: Amy Chin
We would love to hear your thoughts on the Rustic Canyon Residence project. Do you appreciate this tribute to Richard Neutra’s design by Assembledge+ and Jamie Bush + Co?
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Sources: Dezeen & est living.
Most Iconic Interior Designers: Elsie de Wolfe
“I’m going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life”
Elsie de Wolfe, also known as Lady Mendl, was born in 1865 in New York and led a glamorous life as a prominent figure in European café society. Often referred to as the “grand dame of modern decorating,” she is widely credited with pioneering the profession of interior design and is considered by many to be the first modern professional decorator.
Her career began in the theater under the guidance of theatrical agent Elisabeth Marbury. Though her acting received modest attention, it was her impeccable fashion sense that captured the public’s eye. Women admired her carefully curated outfits and began to emulate her style, establishing de Wolfe as a fashion icon of her era. In fact, she was named the “best-dressed woman in the world” in 1935.
But who exactly was Elsie de Wolfe, and what lasting impact did she leave on the world of interior design?
Elsie de Wolfe: The Woman Who Invented Interior Design
Known and revered as America’s first decorator, Elsie de Wolfe changed the course of interior design forever. Her influence is still felt today — in every bright, airy and feminine space that rejects heavy drapes and dark furniture. Even decades after her passing, her legacy lives on through the casual elegance she championed.
Elsie once described herself as a “rebel in an ugly world”. At a time when late Victorian interiors were weighed down with clutter and gloom, she brought in simplicity, comfort and light. Mirrors, chinoiserie, soft color palettes and whimsical flourishes became her signature. She believed in “plenty of optimism and white paint, comfortable chairs with lights beside them, open fires on the hearth and flowers wherever they belong, mirrors and sunshine in all rooms”.
In 1913, she published The House in Good Taste, a guide to decorating that became an instant hit and remains a design classic today. De Wolfe was the one who proved that pale color schemes, painted woodwork and floral chintz could be not only stylish but timeless. She introduced the use of painted trellis as wallcovering, animal-print carpets and mirrored walls — elements still used by designers around the world.
Elsie De Wolfe’s Career
In 1887, de Wolfe formed a partnership with Elisabeth “Bessie” Marbury, a prominent literary agent. Together, they transformed their shared residence on Irving Place by replacing the dark, heavy furnishings typical of the Victorian era with lighter, more inviting decor. This successful endeavor inspired de Wolfe to pursue interior decoration professionally. In 1905, she secured her first major commission to design the interiors of the Colony Club, New York’s inaugural social club for women, with the support of architect Stanford White and her influential social circle.
The triumph of the Colony Club project catapulted de Wolfe into high demand among affluent clients, including notable figures such as industrialist Henry Clay Frick. By 1913, her burgeoning reputation enabled her to establish a substantial studio on Fifth Avenue. De Wolfe’s design philosophy emphasized simplicity and suitability, advocating for interiors that were both elegant and comfortable. She favored light fabrics, pale color schemes, and practical furnishings, often incorporating mirrors to enhance natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. Her work not only revolutionized interior aesthetics but also laid the foundation for interior decoration as a recognized profession.
Hollywood’s Favourite Designer
Fleeing Paris ahead of World War II, Elsie de Wolfe settled in Los Angeles, where her refined and airy aesthetic captivated the film industry’s elite. Her clientele included notable figures such as Countess Dorothy di Frasso, for whom she designed a Beverly Hills villa. De Wolfe’s influence extended beyond private residences; she also served as a set decoration adviser for films like “The Razor’s Edge,” further cementing her status as Hollywood’s go–to designer during its golden age.
Notable clients: The Colony Club, Hope Hampton, Anne Vanderbilt, the Duchess of Windsor, Condé Nast.
Elsie de Wolfe’s Most Famous Designs
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And you? What do you think of Elsie de Wolfe’s design style? Do you like it?
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A-List: Known Interior Designers By Elle Decor
As in every year, Elle Decor publishes the A-list with the 100 best professionals in the field of architecture and interior design. So, we selected some interior designers who stand out for their creativity, boldness and innovation in this world. Check below a little of the history of each of them:
1. A-List AMY LAU
Amy Lau, a A-List Interior Designers By Elle Decor, is an American designer born in Arizona. She graduated from the Sotheby Art Institute in Decorative Art. Soon after, she worked as a design director at Thomas O’brien’s Aero. And sometime later she spent 5 years working as a design director at the Lin-Weinberg Gallery located in New York.
Through her professional experience and talent, since 2005, Amy becomes a sought-after speaker for interior design conferences.
In addition to the speakers, Amy also recreated the Miami Design Fair with contemporary furniture suppliers internationally renowned.
2. ALESSANDRA BRANCA
Alessandra Branca is an Italian designer, born in Rome. She created her own brand that is really recognized in the world of interior design. At the moment the Italian designer has offices in Rome, New York and Chicago.
This a A-List Interior Designer work reflects a classic and timeless style decor that has captivated thousands of people around the world for years.
3. BEATA HEUMAN
Beata Heuman, is a Swedish-born designer and London resident, who followed an unconventional path to interior design. She studied Italian and Arts in Florence before returning to study literature at Sweden’s Lund University.
The Interior design only entered in her life when, while living in London, she received a proposal to work at Nicky Haslam. Where she worked for 9 years and acquired most of her knowledge and developed her talent in the field of interior design.
So, in 2013, Heuman set up her own studio developing unique and fun projects that reflect her personality and her way to see life.
4. EMMA JANE PILKINGTON
Emma Jane Pilkington is an Australian designer who grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut. At the moment, the designer works at the house where she spent much of her childhood on Long Island, and is a A-List Interior Designers By Elle Decor.
Emma and Cristiana Cuomo, her friend, work on projects together. In wich they create luxury decorative items that can be considered jewelry.
5. CHARLOTTE MOSS
Charlotte Mass, a A-List Interior Designers By Elle Decor, is an American designer who started her business in 1985. Her specialty is in designing private residences and executive suites, but she also develops several projects for retail stores.
After launching her career on Wall Street, Charlotte has expanded her reach in recent years by signing Flair for Living designs for consumers around the world with collections available under license.
Charlotte also designs fabrics and finishes for Fabricut. Also carpets, essays, and wallpapers for Stark Carpet and porcelain for Pickard. And recently, Charlotte used her 25-year experience decorating haute couture homes to design a collection of furniture and upholstery for the Century Furniture.
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