Architectural Cases

Renowned designer Nate Berkus recently embarked on a four-day immersive trip through Yucatán, Mexico, leading a group of design aficionados on an expedition that delved deep into the region's rich cultural tapestry. This journey showcased the vibrant interplay of local craftsmanship, historical architecture, and the delectable culinary landscape that defines this unique part of Mexico, solidifying Mérida's reputation as a vital source of creative inspiration.

One of the central experiences of the trip was a visit to a working henequen farm, owned by designer Angela Damman and her husband Scott. Berkus, known for incorporating Mexican artistry into his interior designs, meticulously questioned the Dammans about their efforts to revitalize henequen production. This traditional fiber, once a cornerstone of the Yucatán economy, is now being transformed into a variety of contemporary products, from intricate handbags to Damman's signature shaggy chandeliers. The group witnessed firsthand the labor-intensive process of extracting and combing the white fibers, which undergo a remarkable transformation from raw plant material into silky strands.

The itinerary, meticulously crafted with Berkus's input, extended beyond traditional crafts to encompass the region's profound architectural heritage. Participants explored artist Javier Marin’s Plantel Matilde, a striking brutalist structure nestled within the jungle, and the ancient pre-Columbian ruins of Uxmal. This archaeological site famously influenced Frank Lloyd Wright's "Mayan Revival" architectural period, offering a glimpse into the historical roots of design inspiration. The group's base for the trip was Hacienda Itzincab Cámara, a 19th-century estate situated on an ancient indigenous site, providing an authentic and enchanting backdrop to their explorations. Despite initial concerns about safety in Mexico, Mérida's reputation as one of Latin America's safest cities, coupled with Yucatán's low crime rates, ensured a secure and enjoyable experience for all.

The journey also highlighted the vibrant community efforts in Yucatán. A stop in Sac Chich, a village where Javier and his brother, architect Arcadio, have established a foundation supporting local artisans, showcased the region's commitment to preserving traditional crafts. Small shops in the village offered a curated selection of ceramics and textiles, reflecting the enduring legacy of local artistry. The Dammans' personal story further exemplified this dedication, as they moved to Yucatán in 2011 and, inspired by local woven goods, began cultivating henequen and sansevieria, breathing new life into a historical industry.

Culinary experiences formed an integral part of the Yucatán adventure. The region's distinct flavors, from the refreshing sopa de lima to the hearty huevos motuleños, were a constant source of delight. Each meal celebrated regional ingredients, with one evening featuring Oaxacan chef Sara Maria Arnaud Gómez of Mérida’s Apoala, who prepared exquisite ceviche and short ribs. Berkus emphasized the deep connection between Mexican culture and its cuisine, noting the essential role of unique sauces and moles. The group also witnessed the preparation of cochinita pibil by a women's cooperative harvesting honey from Melipona bees, underscoring the communal and traditional aspects of Yucatán's food culture.

The trip culminated with a visit to Casa Escuela in Mérida, a beautifully restored residence, hotel, and cultural center by architect Ezequiel Farca and designer Monica Calderón. This 1919 building, once a private home and then a school, exemplified a harmonious blend of preserved original features, like multicolored tile floors, and modernist interventions, such as a perforated concrete screen designed to manage heat and light. Dining under the stars in the courtyard, surrounded by local handmade ceramics and flowers, Berkus reflected on the journey. He expressed his desire to demonstrate how Yucatán is a place where design, architecture, food, and craft seamlessly intertwine, offering not only creative inspiration but also fostering new connections and friendships.

Embrace Tradition, Live Modern: Redefining Coastal Living

A Distinctive Colonial Residence Amidst Modern Luxury

In the exclusive Emerald Bay enclave of Laguna Beach, a colonial-style house stood apart from its contemporary, ocean-facing neighbors. Interior designer Melissa Rohani noted its unique "Old World soul," reminiscent of East Coast architecture, a stark contrast to the prevalent glass-laden designs in the area. This home, crafted by a local artist, uniquely features French doors leading to an inner courtyard with a twisted willow tree, with only one room offering direct views of the ocean.

Revitalizing Spaces: From Formal Dining to Cozy Den

The formal dining room, now transformed into a cozy den, embodies the home's renewed character. Adorned with Farrow & Ball's Pantalon, this intimate space opens to a small backyard, featuring a custom sofa upholstered in luxurious Rose Uniacke linen and accented with Soraya Shaw's Nebula fabric pillows. Vintage pieces, including an Alfonso Liporesi side table, Marc Phillips rug, Tobia Scarpa ceiling lamp, and Stilnovo sconces, complete the sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Artworks by Otis Jones and Quentin James McCaffrey further enrich the room's aesthetic.

A Serendipitous Discovery: The Unforeseen Home

Melissa Rohani and Lisa Berman, co-founders of Studio Gutow, initially sought a gallery space for their extensive collection of furniture, textiles, and glassware. However, a chance encounter led Rohani to this colonial house, a property not actively on the market. The moment she stepped inside, it felt like home, aligning with her vision of a space where her children could freely play in an open yard visible from the kitchen. The house, though needing updates, possessed the foundational elements they desired.

Enhancing the Heart of the Home: A Functional Kitchen and Breakfast Area

The kitchen exemplifies Studio Gutow's commitment to functionality and communal living. Eschewing a traditional formal dining room, a spacious breakfast area seamlessly connects to the kitchen. The island features wraparound bar seating designed for intimate conversations, while a cozy banquette provides additional seating for larger gatherings. This thoughtful layout allows for comfortable dining for up to 14 people, making it a true hub of family life. High-caliber art, including a Josef Albers painting and a "little Picasso," adds an unexpected touch of sophistication to this everyday space.

Personal Touches and Masterful Craftsmanship Throughout

Rohani and Berman's design philosophy avoids imposing a singular style, instead focusing on enhancing the existing character of each home. Their previous project in Emerald Bay, a renovated beach bungalow, was so seamlessly updated that it appeared original. In this home, they extended paneling and deepened the architectural envelope, creating a cohesive and timeless aesthetic. The living room, painted in a golden ivory, exudes a welcoming ambiance, complemented by bespoke cabinetry, custom millwork, and lighter, sanded oak floors—a practical solution for coastal living. Each guest room is designed as a comfortable suite, featuring coffee makers and lounge areas, while the children's rooms reflect their personalities with vibrant colors and personalized storage solutions.

Seamless Integration with Nature: Ocean Views and Courtyard Tranquility

The primary suite, with its unique corner lounge featuring the home's only true ocean view, serves as a serene sanctuary. Here, Studio Gutow incorporated wood-clad elements inspired by older Laguna homes, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, whales and dolphins can be observed in the distance, while the internal view offers glimpses of the Rohanis' own trees flourishing in the courtyard. The entire palette of the home, with its warm beige and sage green tones, smooth marbles, and rich wood grains, complemented by live plants, reinforces a deep connection to the natural environment.

Thoughtful Details in Every Corner: Bathrooms and Artistic Flourishes

The primary bathroom showcases meticulous attention to detail, featuring dark Blue de Savoie marble walls and custom oak floors in a rhombus pattern, designed to prevent a overly formal atmosphere. Lisa Berman highlights the practical yet elegant choice of marble beneath the freestanding tub, creating a "landing pad" for wet feet. Rohani's bathroom, with lighter walls in Benjamin Moore's Classic Gray, is outfitted with van Cronenburg fixtures and custom H & J Cabinets. Even the original leaded glass windows, while retaining their primary colors, were subtly refined to better suit the updated space, demonstrating Studio Gutow's ability to honor historical elements while introducing contemporary elegance.

Living Artfully: A Home Designed for Joy and Comfort

The Rohani family's Laguna Beach home is a testament to thoughtful design that harmonizes old-world charm with modern family needs. Every space, from the art-filled kitchen to the serene bedrooms, is crafted to foster comfort, connection, and a deep appreciation for its coastal setting. The collaborative efforts of Studio Gutow, LS Architects, and Tony Valentine Construction have resulted in a residence that not only functions beautifully for daily life but also provides a warm and inviting backdrop for cherished family moments.