Good Design in the Hill Country - Fern Santini, Mell Lawrence

Examples of the work of Austin, Texas designer, Fern Santini, have long been in my inspiration files.

I have found that my attraction to certain houses or rooms in different magazines over the years has a definite pattern - usually not conscious -  of being drawn to the work of the same designers and architects, over and over again.

 This is certainly the case with Fern Santini.

I look back over my tear pages from various magazines over time, and there are a handful of architects and interior designers that continue to surface.
                                           

While perusing her current website for her design company, Abode, I read this quote and it speaks volumes to me.........  exactly what I believe the basis of good design should be:

"We draw on art and architecture for inspiration, but understanding how a client lives – and understanding how a client wants to live – is the basis for our work."

AND

"Respect for tradition and history are crucial elements in our philosophy, but we also believe that rules are meant to be broken."

 The diversity of Fern's work can be seen on her website, reflecting, I think, the differences in her clients' tastes and lifestyles.

This urban townhouse in Austin is a great backdrop for the owner's collection of large paintings.

I was drawn immediately to this room by the huge magnolia painting by Texas artist, David Bates. Magnolias are one of his favorite subjects and this one is spectacular! I also love how it hangs over the sofa,
 strong and bold, and lovely.

What a great tub, and look how the sconces almost echo the shape.
 Really pretty form, I think.

Simple and handsome, the eye is drawn to the painting above the bed.
Very nice.

The sculptural staircase maximizes storage and has bookshelves lining the wall all the way up.Notice the open niche for the piece of pottery.

                                                                         

                                        All Photos of Austin townhouse from FernSantini.com       

Love the size of this kitchen. It looks like there is ample workspace with cabinetry that is attractive and classic, with clean lines. I love kitchens that blend in with the rest of the house, and of course, as everything else is in this house, the kitchen design is subtle and chic, setting off yet another large painting.

Another Austin favorite is architect, Mell Lawrence. It's no secret that I love Texas contemporary design, and am a bit obsessed with a certain number of architects whose styles are similar, but each also distinctly their own.

                                                                           

                 Fern Santini was the designer for the interior of this beautiful hill country home, designed by Mell Lawrence.

Don't you just love it when those great minds and eyes collaborate?

                                    
                                            Classic long porch lined with rocking chairs..........

                                                                                      

         

Love the indoor/outdoor connection.

                                                                                

                                                                                 

The design of the house incorporates natural light in every room.

             All  Photos of Mell Lawrence house  

         

There are so many features of this bathroom that I just love!  I am crazy about the hanging lights here, and the double trough sink is so great looking. I love the walls of horizontal boards, the wall mounted faucets, and the big soaking tub. Oh, and the natural light, always love that.

Move me right in.

     I am feeling the urge to write more about my love for Texas modern architecture, so stay tuned!