THIS FRIDAY…
evening the 40th annual San Francisco Decorator Showcase will open its doors in a flurry of fine wine, hors d’oeuvres, and great design for a cause. Widely touted as the West Coast’s premier design showhouse event, this year’s venue is set in the historic Mack House – a 1904 Classical Revival, designed by architects Samuel Newsom and his son Sidney. To help bring the home into the 21st century, the event coordinators tapped 28 of the area’s most celebrated designers. Today, we’re thrilled to offer a sneak peek inside from one of them…
ALLOTTED A…
challenging room and a half of space, designer Catherine Kwong created a penthouse style living room and bar. Her vision, Kwong explains, was “Inspired by a recent trip to Big Sur, I wanted to create a space that reflects the natural beauty of California. This serene, grown-up retreat celebrates the exquisite simplicity in nature – deeply cultivated, raw and elemental – nothing superfluous, only what is essential.”
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INFUSED WITH…a midcentury-meets-modern vibe, Kwong’s zen like approach emphasizes a rich materiality where natural, textural details shine especially bright. |
THE LARGE…
wrap around sofa is Donald Judd-inspired, while the gorgeous custom-embroidered, linen back cushions reference a sketch of California wildflowers. The matching velvet cushions add an extra layer of depth and warmth.
BRINGING IN…
a touch of the iconic, Kwong’s first decision was to have a custom Nakashima Cocktail Table made at the workshop of the late master. From there, all other design decisions began to take form.
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THE DESIGNER’S…nature-inspired theme spills out into a seating nook located just adjacent to the bar area. The ethereal wallpaper was custom-painted on site by fashion / textile designer Stevie Howell. The chair is a vintage design by Karen and Ebbe Clemmensen for Fritz Hansen, and the side table is a contemporary piece from Almond & Co. |
THE BAR…
area references the lounge with a continuation of its textural, hand troweled plaster walls. As for the counter, sink, shelf, and backsplash… Kwong integrated them all in a sleek swath of Italian marble. The tailored result wraps up Kwongs approach to the full project – a fascinating exploration of materiality as it relates to understated luxury. Bravo Catherine!
THE SAN FRANCISCO…
Decorator Showcase opens its doors to the public from April 29th to May 29th. All funds raised go directly to support the San Francisco University High School Financial Aid Program – helping to make a world-class college preparatory education available to deserving local students. Tickets available via eventbrite.com.
Photography by Josh Gruetzmacher.
