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House Destinations - South America and Mexico

October 01, 2019Sommer Pyne

We’re exploring Central and South America next on our House Destinations around the world. There are some amazing countries to visit in this part of the world plus real variation from the jungle to mountains and stunning coastlines. We can’t wait to go back and visit.

Photos by Simon Upton for Architectural Digest

Tropical Holiday House in Trancoso, Brazil

First up is the tropical hideaway in Brazil that is owned by US news anchor Anderson Cooper. Situated in the lesser know Brazilian town of Trancoso, on the Atlantic coast it’s quite tucked away. Cooper enlisted fashion designer turned hotelier Wilbert Das to build him a vacation home in Trancoso, Brazil. The estate comprises of four buildings set amongst lush vegetation including mango, cacao, jackfruit, banana, and açaí trees.

The image above shows the master suite that sits on timber stilts to create shelter for an outdoor seating area beneath it. It feels like grown ups treehouse.

The treehouse theme continues with wooden cladding throughout. Crisp white muslin drapes over the four poster bed and adds drama to the room.

In the main structure of the house is the living/dining room, kitchen area and veranda for outside entertaining. Handmade local craft and vintage pieces like the Bahian cocktail table that sits with pequi-wood stools perfectly blend into the structure of the home. Das’s Uxua Casa home collection, which include the indigo-dyed throw pillows, woven-reed rug, and sectional sofa finish the room of nicely. Mostly the colour pallet is neutral, however feature wall brighter up room in true South American style.

In the kitchen there is a real juxtaposition of old and new, concrete countertops and shelving complements the reclaimed-wood cabinets. The black earthenware is beautifully displayed on open shelves and the large vintage glass and brass pendant is a great feature.

We love this assortment of terracotta pendants lights hanging over the rustic style family dining table and benches. This is something that could easily be replicated inside your home over your family table. If only we had the same climate as Brazil and could eat outside every night.

The pool area has an organic shape that flows around the lush jungle surroundings making it feel lagoon like. Tatajuba wooden planks form the decking area which houses the lounge furniture and outdoor bar area.

This nook is in one of the guest bungalows and features a lampshade made from reclaimed sail. What I love most about this nook is that most of the things are vintage or reclaimed, making it unique and original.

Who wouldn’t want to curl up with a coffee and good book on this terrace. The terracotta tiles are a gorgeous contrast to the lush green lawn. Reclaimed wooden furniture fill the space and the macrame inspired chair looks sooo comfy.

The reclaimed wood and mix of vintage continues throughout the property in the bathroom. Door frames and window frames also feature reclaimed wood. We love the contrast of the white walls. Finding vintage pieces and repurposing them in your home is a great way to upcycle and add character to your home.

To finish it off this little slice of jungle heaven comes complete with an outdoor shower in a carved out tree trunk. Plus a huddle of hammocks to lounge in.

Key features we love :

Boho Hammocks
Outdoor shower in carved out tree trunk
Tree house inspired master suite
Muslin covered 4 poster beds
Reclaimed wooden furniture

Source - Architectural Digest

Photos by Andres Garcia Lachner for Wallpaper

Joya Villas - Costa Rica

These two modern villas sit in the rainforest of Santa Teresa surprisingly well thanks to the use of predominantly simple raw materials of steel, wood and concrete. The wooden screens and floors ensure that the property is rooted in local traditions and building techniques.

Designed by Studio Saxe, a sustainable organisation that prides itself on maintaining a balance between the natural environment and modern architecture.

This floating staircase is a beautiful example of good architecture. Clean lines are a strong feature throughout this home. In any home with so many hard surfaces it’s important to soften the look with soft accessories.

As this property sits in the jungle/rainforest plants are hugely important and we love this indoor/outdoor planted area in the bathroom. Plants breathe life into any room and this living indoor garden is a great way to bring the outdoors in. We were considering something very similar in our house but it proved to be quite expensive due to extra drainage and excavation.

Bi fold door open up the entire property, creating a smooth transition between indoors and outdoors.

The kitchen has an industrial feel to it with the steel columns and exposed beams, mixed with cool concrete surfaces. The Marble countertops add a touch of luxe. We love the open plan of the kitchen and design is perfect for entertaining.

Key features we love:

Simple lines
Floating staircase
Mix of industrial material like steel, concrete and natural wood.
Bi-fold doors

Source : Wallpaper

Mayan Minimalism - Tulum, Mexico

Last up in our around the world tour is Mexico. This minimalist home in Tulum feels more like a boutique hotel. Set in a rich green Mayan jungle on the outskirts of the town with white sandy beaches, this property is hidden away and feels like a place to leave your troubles at the door and relax.

The property is designed around the spectacular swimming pool and interior gardens with a fire pit and lounge overlooking the jungle from sunrise to sunset. The open lounge area is simply furnished with wooden furniture and oversized cushions.

Constructed entirely of monolithic concrete forms, the tree line of the jungle adds a sense of calm and cool central living areas. Almost completely unadorned, the design allows the architecture and jungle center stage.

This corner plunge pool with hammock above it is the perfect place to cool off and relax. Three of the bedrooms have their own plunge pool, now that’s what a I call luxury! This is a great feature if you are thinking about renting a property out as a side income.

What we love about this property is the simplicity of the design and complimentary furniture. The bamboo ladder is not only practical but a great feature in any room. You can hang towels or accessorise with eucalyptus or dried flowers for a more decorative effect.

The bedrooms are small and have been kept simple and sparse with built in beds that blend in with the floors and walls. We love the architectural window design. The outdoor bathroom area in the above right image has a statement wall made of local stone that is used as the backdrop to the shower.

The open air bathroom is gorgeous and feels very luxurious with the marble vanity area. Who doesn’t love an outside shower?! Perhaps not in the UK but definitely when we’re on holiday. I love the luxe but simple design of this bespoke sink. It’s always a good idea, if you have the luxury to commission a local stone maker or your builder to create something that is unique.

This bathroom above is beautiful, the soft stone colour adds so much warmth and is effortlessly stylish.

Key features we love:

Private plunge pools
Hammocks
Jungle location
Outside bathroom

If you’ve missed any of the previous blog posts in this series don’t worry you can catch up below:

House Destinations - Australia

House Destinations - America

House Destinations - Scandinavia

House Destinations - Balearic Islands

categories blog
tags house destinations, house curious, brazil

House Destinations - Balearic Islands

September 15, 2019Sommer Pyne

The Balearic islands have long been a favourite holiday destination of ours. Most recently we ventured to Mallorca but I have a long standing love with Ibiza, so much so that my husband and I got married there, so it only seemed right that we explore these majestic islands next on our house destinations tour around the globe.

Farm House - Ibiza

This farm house was once a private home however it has now has been converted into a small boutique hotel called La Granja Ibiza. We love it so much we couldn’t not share it. A stunning house that has strong moorish influences and nods to Iberian architecture it’s the perfect place to relax and decompress on the white isle.

The communal outdoor space is a mixture of rustic eclecticism. Natural materials such as mixed wood, wicker, bamboo along with aged iron adds character to the exterior furniture and accessories. Cleverly the furniture blends into it’s natural surroundings as if it was meant to be there. Stone and gravel flooring add additional textures.

The warm weather allows guests to take advantage of the outdoor space with large outdoor tables and benches for eating and entertaining. Large trays on the tables filled with local seasonal fruit are a simple but effective centerpiece that an easily be replicated in your home. The benches are softened with linen cushions and throws.

Sometimes less is more especially when you have original beautiful features such as the exposed wooden beams. Earthy colour tones are a common theme throughout the house and you can clearly see that the colour pallet has been inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds the property. The paired back style gives a sense of calm and tranquility.

There are cosy corners and great nooks for reading and relaxing in. In the image on the left hand side there is a gorgeous built in seating area. You could add something similar to your own home and with hidden storage underneath. We love the use of mis-matched style of coffee tables at slight different heights.

The bedroom in much darker in colour to create a cosy nest to sleep. The beds are luxurious but rustic with layers of neutral linens. Materials of burnt wood, brushed and oiled ash, stone and slate all help to ground the room.

We love the dark shutters and stone tiled floors which also help keep the rooms cool during the heat of the summer. Low hung pendant lights either side of the bed are a great alternative to bedside table lights.

One of the most luxurious things I have ever experienced is a soaking in a roll topped bath by an open fire.

Simple decor features throughout, we love the low hung bamboo lampshades, rustic stools and palm broom. The crittal doors add a modern touch to the house and seem to compliment any space.

Key features we love :

Rustic Wooden Furniture
Colour pallet inspired by the natural surroundings
Original features
Bamboo lampshades
Outdoor entertaining areas

Source : Est Living

Family House - Formentera

Next up we hop over to Formentera a stones throw from Ibiza, the smallest of the Balearic Islands. A great place for a day trip from Ibiza or a week long getaway. We love this hippy island with it’s crystal clear waters and long sandy beaches. This house is a stunning family home with gorgeous views of the ocean.

The sandy colour of the exterior allows the property to blend into its surroundings. Large wooden shutters keep the interiors shaded and cool. Small windows are in keeping with the original style of the property.

Again this property has a large outdoor dining area perfect for entertaining late into the evenings. Climbing vines have been planted to grow and eventually create shade during hot summer days. Outdoor pendant lights have been hung over the table to create an indoor/outdoor vibe.

Furniture in the interior is modern and angular to compliment the clean lines of the property. Natural wood has been used on the ceilings and walls, which seems to a be a trend that we’re seeing more and more.

The stone walls used throughout this property are typical of this area and are a real statement feature of the building. By using natural materials from the surrounding are and combined with architectural modern lines it feels modern and in keeping with the houses original style.

Naturally woven baskets are a great accessory to soften any space and is an easy fix to add to your home.

Key features we love:

Sand coloured exteriors
Exposed Wooden beams
Large pool
Outdoor shower
Flat stone wall in native sandy colour stone

Source : Design./Visual.

sale

BRONTE BASKET

£18.00 £34.95

Mallorce House - Deià, Mallorca

Set in a tiny village on the island of Mallorca, this hill top hideaway it full of character and history. Dating back to the 13th century it is now owned by several members of a nordic family. You can feel both a nordic and mallorcan influence throughout the property.

Situated over three storeys on a steeply terraced site, the house is accessed via the middle floor, where the kitchen, dining room, and a bedroom and bathroom are situated. The floor above has the master bedroom and an ensuite bathroom, as well as affording access to the spacious main outdoor terrace, and on the lower floor are two more bedrooms (including one with multiple built-in bunk beds for kids) and a shared bathroom.

Large glass doors and windows allow light to flood in. Stone floors keep the building cool.

The white washed walls and exposed beams are very quintessentially balearic. We love the addition of plants though out the property for splashes of colour in a very neutral colour palette. Brass, stone, wood, linen, raffia and wicker are the key materials used to decorate this space.

This bespoke sink is a beautiful feature and you can almost envisage the stone that it was craved out of. The aged brass accents are warm and go perfectly with the earthy tones of the house.

Simple bedding with soft texture, layered pillows and cushions add a softness to the bedrooms. Again the owners have hung pendant lights as a way to save space in the bedroom and avoid bedside table lamps.

I love the relaxed no fuss vibe of this outdoor area. The exposed original wall and natural wood compliments the natural surroundings do effortlessly.

Key features we love:

High hilltop position with views for miles
Brass bathroom fixtures and fittings
Outdoor seating area

Source: Est Living

sale

ENGRAVED ALUMINIUM FLOWER POT (set of 2)

£50.00 £69.00

If you’ve missed any of the previous blog posts in this series don’t worry you can check them out here.

House Destinations - Australia

House Destinations - America

House Destinations - Scandinavia

Enjoy x

categories blog
tags house destinations, balearic islands, ibiza, mallorca

House Destinations - Scandinavia

August 28, 2019Sommer Pyne

Next stop on our whistle stop tour of stunning properties around the world is Scandinavia which is made up of 3 countries in northern Europe, Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Scandi design have gained notoriety for their love of interior design and clean modern design over the last decade and the Scandi trend continues to flourish. We take a look at 5 unique properties and their interior style. We hope you enjoy and can take inspiration from them.

Summer Haus

Zealand, Denmark

First up is Summer Haus just north of Copenhagn this holiday home belongs to Danish Jewellery Designer Charlotte Lynggaard. Situated by the coast this property looks right at home, with its weathered wooden cladded exterior. The gardens are planted with plants that thrive in this environment, there is also a kitchen garden that the owners grows fruit and veg in, which we just love.

The interiors of this property are very true of the scandi aesthetic, the colour palette is simple and considered. Owner, Charlotte was also influenced heavily with Japanese minimalism and decor. Light in scandi properties is very important as the winters are long and dark, so designers and architects try to fill rooms with as much natural light as possible. The homes often have open plan living, raised ceilings and large windows to allow light to flood in.

The large kitchen diner is a true representation of all the scandi things we love.

Natural materials feature heavily and the furniture and soft furnishings add character and personality. The mix of neutral colours with accents of blues and slate reflect the landscape on which the house sits. In the living room the large crittall windows in white keep the space feeling bright. A gallery wall in a great way to showcase artwork. The low sofas are a nod to the japanese influence.

The study pictured above features a floor to ceiling bookcase with ample storage in a custom size and layout. A bookshelf like this is also a good space divider in open plan living - it would also work well in small spaces like a studio to break up the space and create useful storage.

The master bedroom is white and bright with blue accents. Built in closet space keeps the room feeling minimal whilst providing much needed storage. Select antique pieces are dotted around the room and bring character to very neutral space. Less is definitely more in this room.

Outside the views are breathtaking over the sea and where better to sit and take it all in, than in an outdoor bathtub. Just imagine waking up to that view every morning!

The way this home is accessorised and styled in simple but elegant, with richly textured fabrics, perfectly placed ornaments, plants, cushions and throws. Art is important with large abstract pieces that are placed around the home in a simple and uncluttered way.

Key features we love:

Outdoor bath tub
Simple colour palette
High ceilings
Crittal doors/windows
Weathered cladding

Source: Est Living and Modafamilia.com

Home of NOMA Chef René Redzepi

Christianshavn, Copenhagen, Denmark

Next up is a home full of character and rustic charm the property is a 200-year-old former blacksmith’s workshop. Which belongs to René Redzepi the chef behind NOMA, the Copenhagen venue awarded Best Restaurant of the World three times. The interiors of this home have nods to the Noma style and Rene’s dedication to high quality, craftsmanship and Nordic heritage. The oak floors and exposed beams are a total reflection of this.

In the kitchen the owners have kept original blacksmith’s furnace in the kitchen which is a unique feature. Not only is this a focal point but it keeps the house warm in the colder months, which is much needed in this part of the world.

Oak features heavily in this home, with beautiful cabinetry in the kitchen and bathrooms. The stairs are also a beautiful example of craftsmanship. The kitchen island is a central feature of the kitchen and houses plenty of storage.

The home is furnished in an unpretentious, timeless and simple fashion. There are beautiful pieces of furniture that have been sourced from flea markets and second hand stores that compliment the age of the property.

Colour is used in a subtle way in this home, from the butter yellow sofa, soft lilac curtains to the mint green window frames in the kitchen it’s uncomplicated and delicate.

The master bedroom is very simple and it’s the original character features that make this room special. There is however a unique fireplace opening to the chimney breast allowing the heat from the furnace below to escape. The pitch of the roof with it’s skylights invites light in and the dramatic beams add so much to this room.

Above is a fun child’s bedroom, we love this extreme bunkbed and long ladder leading up to it. This is a great way to make the most of a smaller space. The built in closets allow clothes and toys to be kept tidied away. We love how this room is styled with a few key toys.

The bathrooms reflects the feel of the rest of the house with warm wood, dark slate and bronze accessories that create a spa like vibe.

Key features we love:

Wooden beams and oak flooring
Beautiful cabinetry
Neutral colour palette with soft drops of colours
Extreme bunkbed
Original features

Sources Living etc and Nordicdesign.ca

The Glasshaus

Gothenburg, Sweden

Now we hop over to Sweden to this unique eco-friendly lakehouse complete with an impressive roof terrace that is encapsulated with a greenhouse like structure.

This A-frame greenhouse contains a three-bedroom, two-bath home that protects the owners within from the freezing winters whilst keeping the energy bills low. With a big focus on the environment and eco-living they have incorporated energy efficient technology and solar panels to reduce the homes footprint.

The greenhouse aspect of this house creates the perfect climate to grow fruit and vegetables indoors all year round adding to that eco-living ideal.

The scenery that surrounds this property is gorgeous. The jetty on the lake is so inviting it makes us want to run and jump in.

The interior roof terrance is very impressive and is a great entertaining space.

White walls and polished concrete floors reflect the light to create bright interiors. There is an industrial feel to the home and the light fittings fit in well this asthetic.

The finish of the interiors is very simple and minimalist, white, grey and chrome is the colour palette. With interjections of natural wood.

The greenhouse element of this home is very dominant and striking and we feel inspired to go more green.

Key features we love:

A-frame structure
Eco friendly set up
Polished concrete floors
Interior roof terrace

Source Dwell

Photos: Kristofer Johnsson via Residence

Eclectic Home

Sweden

This is the home of Christian Duivenvoorden and his partner, owners of Artilleriet, an amazing decor and furnishings store in Gothenburg. The interiors of this property totally reflect their style and all the things they love from their store.

It’s a stunning place with a fabulous and eclectic style, thanks to a perfect blend of vintage finds, iconic pieces and modern design.

The rooms have high ceilings, long windows and french doors which allow light to flood in. All the rooms are painted white, off white or cream colour, which helps light bounce around. As we have discussed earlier in the blog post light is very important especially this far north in the winter months.

As for materials in this home it is again very simple and paired back with exposed wooden floorboards. The colour palette are whites, creams, greys and black with a mix of natural wood and glass. Everyday objects are on show from the wooden chopping boards to bowls and glassware.

A focal point in this the dining area is the vintage log burner. The furniture is a curated selection of mismatched pieces. The tall backed wooden bench is softened with a gorgeous dark sheepskin and feels very much part of the scandi trend.

Plants bring the only real colour into this home and can be found in most of the rooms. Each one is beautuflly displayed in a variety of concrete pots, black pots and at a varying heights.

In the living room they have used lot’s of textures, the sofas have white linen loose covers that have a relaxed vibe. This is mixed with a variety of textures from the berber style rug, velvet cushions, sheepskins and woollen blankets to add a cosy feel. Don’t be afraid to use white in your home especially when it comes to sofas etc, these loose cover can easily be removed and washed.

The bedroom is very chilled space, again using lots of linen and layers of whites and greys. Lighting in this room is kept simple with a focus on down lights and lamps that can be moved to create a cosy atmosphere.

Modern elements come through more obviously in the kitchen and bathroom. The kitchen has a striking modern black oven that blends into its surrounds. The white metro tiles with black grouting provide a classic back drop to the kitchen with chrome appliances. Some might say that metro tiles are over used but I think they are a classic and look great in most homes.

The last room that we are looking at in this property is the bathroom, the modern white bath tub sits on industrial style black floor tiles. With a repurposed wooden cabinet that provide lots of storage and space for the black basin, mirror and tray full of goodies.

Key features we love:

Simple white bath tub
Bamboo and silk statement light in the living room.
Berber style rug
Vintage wood burner
Modern black oven.
White metro tiles with black grouting

Vega Island Hideaway

Norway

The last property we’re visiting is in Norway, hidden away on a remote island called Vega just south of the artic circle. The weather beaten fisherman cottage sits on the rocks of the island. Designed by the Stockholm-based studio Kolman Boye Architects, the exterior is clad in pine that will wear into a grey that will blend with the dark trees and rocky landscape. Timber features heavily on the exterior and interior of the property.

Birch kitchen cabinets and shelves, steel countertops and natural textiles play against a background of whitewashed wood and natural birch, reflecting that incredible light. Floor to ceilng window feature though out the home.

Rooms are arranged on two levels that follow the land’s topography. The lower level is a lofty open-plan living area with a kitchen, dining table and snug sitting area, all arranged around a central stone fireplace, which is the heart of this home.

The upper level houses two double bedrooms and a bathroom; there’s another small double bedroom up in the attic, making this a great getaway for a family or close friends. Every detail is considered; nothing detracts from those mesmerising views.

As for the interior cladding, the timber has been kept light to create a spacious atmosphere. Unfinished birch was used for the window frames and skirting while the wood used for the walls, ceilings and floors has been whitewashed and treated with linseed oil. The interior design remains emphatically scandinavian: simultaneously cutting edge and traditional.

The double volumed form of the house was heavily based on the compositions of traditional fisherman’s boat sheds found on Vega Island. Due to the uneven boulders that Vega Cottage is built on, one half sits slightly higher than the other.

Key features we love:

Simple structure
Wooden cladding
White washed birch interiors
Steel countertops
Incredible location

Source http://homeli.co.uk and Off Grid Hideaways

For more in this blog series click here for House Destinations - Australia and click here for House Destinations - America.

categories blog
tags house destinations, homestyle, scandinavia

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House Curious

House Curious

House Destinations - South America and Mexico

October 01, 2019Sommer Pyne

House Destinations - Balearic Islands

September 15, 2019Sommer Pyne

House Destinations - Scandinavia

August 28, 2019Sommer Pyne