(BAD) Blog About Design

Private Property

http://www.renaudmarion.com

Photographer Renaud Marion, captures the beauty and intricacy of the front gate in this series titled "Private Property". When you think of a home, you often think about the entry way as the focal point. In these photographs, the front gate is the focal point. While some front gates are stately and beautiful, others have a more "natural" appearance to say the least! (ABOVE) The front gate and architecture of this house are interconnect. Both are ornately decorated and stately. I love the row of hedges leading to the front doorway. (BELOW 1) This front gate looks like a Frank Lloyd Wright home awaits you on the other side. It's very modern, clean, and simple. (BELOW 2) This front gate appears to be far more cheerful. I love the bold turquoise, it's so calming. It seems the front gate here is manually operated. (BELOW 3) I see this front gate around a home in Beverly Hills. The columns and the potted hedges soften the black iron material, giving your eye a break. (BELOW 4) This front gate needs a little love and attention. It seems like things are getting overgrown around the gate. A smart move if you're trying to conceal your multi-million dollar home on the other side! (BELOW 5) This green gate makes me feel like I'm about to enter some far off land. You can see the tall Cypress trees stick out, I'm guessing a very stately home on the other side? What do you think of Renaud's work?

http://www.renaudmarion.com

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Labels: Design

An Exquisite California Estate

http://www.christiesrealestate.com/PropertyDetails/113097/998182/7071/27#113097/998182/7071/27

Nestled behind beautiful trees, sits Chiltern, an estate located in Hillsborough, California. If you have a spare 43 million, it can be yours! The estate is situated on more than six acres with 60-year-old gardens, a 50-tree orchard, and has 36,000 square feet of living space. (ABOVE) As you make your way past the iron gate, you will be greeted by a piece of art. Even though this home was built in the 1990s it has a beautifully old quality to it. I love all the trees and I find the home uniquely its own. (BELOW 1) How could you not want a front gate like this? It has a very elegant and stately presence. I have a good feeling no one will be breaking in! (BELOW 2) If Tennis is your thing, this estate has one to remember. Well manicured, and with a brilliant stone wall, this court is gorgeous. (BELOW 3, 4, 5) The gardens of this estate are stunning. Rose gardens, and mazes, give this home a vacation feel. (BELOW 6) I like how the shrubs are placed in wood pots. It allows the shrubs to be easily changed.

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Labels: Architecture

Moving In: Hidden Valley Estate

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

I've got a good one for you today folks! Located in Connecticut (surprised me too!) is this amazing 1920s historic estate designed by architect Edward C. Dean. The home was designed for a renown NY surgeon and NY socialite, oh la la! The architecture of the home is reflective of the original families love of travel and collecting artifacts. With over 275 acres of land, and over 8,000 sq ft of living space, you're sure to be comfortable here! (ABOVE) The front of this home is brilliant. How great are those towers! It's a mixture between castle and chateau--castle chateau chic! I love the stone wall and green hedges growing along it. The hedges soften the wall and home. To the far right, you'll notice a bridge that crosses over a stream and leads to the main house.

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(1) A mile long private driveway leads to the main house. Two ivy towers flank the entry to the main house. Not having a gate, allows the original architecture of the home to speak. A gate would distract from the stone walls. I get a very English vibe from this photograph.

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(2) The property is equally impeccable. With over 275 acres of land, this estate would make for the perfect getaway. A long walk, or a little fishing in the pond. It's a home to relax in from the hustle and bustle of city living.

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(3) I love the back of the home. I find it to have a different vibe from the front of the house. While the front of the home felt more like a castle, the back of the home feels more like a country, farm-type house.

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(4) This seating area has got a very laid back, outdoors thing going for it. The wood furnishings look great against the stone facade. As much as I like the rustic vibe of the patio, I'd rather it be fully done in blue slate, and for the two sections to be connected. I'm guessing the owners decided to leave it in its original condition?

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(5) The pool deck has a farmhouse vibe. A one bedroom guesthouse is adjacent the pool. With a property this gorgeous you're sure to get a lot of visitors! I wonder if the pool is original to the home? It sure looks it!

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(6) Whenever I see such open spaces I just dream of running! It probably has to do with city living for me. The property is definitely a dream playground for the kids. I remember loving to adventure through the woods growing up. What do you think of the home? Would you move in?

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Labels: Architecture

Moving In: Estate Nestled In The Park

http://www.sothebysrealty.com

This gorgeous stone country estate is located in Greenwich, Connecticut. The 9,600 square foot residence is situated on over 10 acres of beautifully manicured grounds. The home truly feels like it's nestled in a park. (ABOVE) From the street all you can see is a gorgeous iron gate and behind it, a park like setting. The property is exactly what a country estate should feel like, secluded! (BELOW 1) Once you've made your way through the gate and park, you are greeted by a fantastic residence. The home is designed like a ranch, a single level home that allows it to blend into its surroundings. Though I'm not a huge fan of this architectural style, I see it's purpose. (BELOW 2) A central courtyard. I really like the ivy growing along the exterior. The slate floors are wonderful. (BELOW 3) An aerial view of the pool, and tennis court. I can definitely see myself waking up to a game of tennis and taking a dip in the pool. (BELOW 4) An aerial view of the home. Here you can really see how well the property is actually maintained. Every square inch of the property is utilized and serves a purpose. What do you think of the estate? Would you move in?

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The Dining Room: (1) Sputnik Lamp Attr. Stilnovo Italy 50s from Liebe Mobel Haben, (2) Quatour Table By Carlo Scarpa from Zeitlos-Berlin, (3) Vintage Persian Gabbeh from Asiaoccidentale, (4) Tube Chairs from Cain Modern, The Kitchen: (5) Pair of Peill & Putzler Hanging Lights from Gallery L7, (6) Fine and Rare Pair of Tall Stools by Pierre Chareau from Maison Gerard, (7) Early 1930's Bidjar Vintage Rug from Art Oriental GmbH, (8) Copper Skin Series Celadon Green Cabinet from Johnson Trading Gallery

The Casual Look: (1) Thakoon Printed Scuba Jersey, (2) T by Alexander Wang Crepe Shorts, (3) Karen Walker Deep Freeze Sunglasses, (4) Frye Cameron Bag, (5) Sam Edelman Gigi Thong Sandals, The Formal Look: (5) Mary Katrantzou Jigsaw Printed Dress, (6) Stella McCartney Oversized Round Sunglasses, (7) Pamela Love Grizzly Ring, (8) Clare Vivier Flat Clutch, (9) Gianvito Rossi PVC Pumps,

Labels: Architecture, Design, Fashion

Castle Design: Castello del Valentino

http://www.flickriver.com

The Castello del Valentino is a historic castle located in Italy. It is one of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, along with the Castle of Racconigi and many others. Between 1630 and 1660, the castle was expanded and renovated by architect Di Castellamonte. The castle has seen little change in appearance since then. Today, the building houses the architecture faculty of the Polytechnic University of Turin. There is a fantastic botanical garden on the grounds! (ABOVE) The castle has a classic Italian architectural design. The castle is designed in a "u" shape. In front of the commanding gate is a large green lawn with much planting and flowers. (BELOW 1) Once you enter through the main gate, you are greeted by an inner courtyard. The stone floor features a lovely design. The colors, and design of the courtyard work well with the architecture of the structure. (BELOW 2) A close up view of the architectural details. I love all the windows. They are so thoughtfully adorned. The windows are all differently shaped, and adorned. (BELOW 3) The back of the castle faces the water. The back of the castle is very different from the front. While the front is stone, the back is brick. The back of the castle surprised me. I was expecting to see something similar to the front. What do you think of the castle?

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Labels: Architecture, castles

17th-Century French Château

http://www.christiesrealestate.com/PropertyDetails/261178/980863/60/12#261178/980863/60/12

The Château de Sannes is a 17th-Century hunting lodge located in Sannes, France. Situated on 135 acres, this château boasts brilliant views of the Luberon Mountains. (ABOVE) The front courtyard of this château is beautiful, I love the 17th-Century doorway. In addition, I find the stone beautifully preserved. The old windows and shutters give the home much character. (BELOW 1) The driveway leading up to the home is lined with cherry trees. I find the gate impeccable. It is very stately given its height. (BELOW 2) The arched windows of the indoor pool house are gorgeous. The clear large windows inside the arch are very modern, which creates a beautifully contrast with the old stone arches. The ivy growing on the facade of the house is very French Country! (BELOW 3) I like how the pool deck is grass and not stone. I think it's very elegant. The Greek Columns ground the stone pavilions. (BELOW 4) The châteaux enchanting formal gardens are abundant with cypresses and ancient Cedar of Lebanon trees. My goal is to by this château and run through the maze!