At first glance the designers recognized the impressive strength of the space and persuaded the builder to modernize by eliminating the proposed rock columns, beams and iron railings. They dramatized the 24’ ceiling with a shimmering wall and massive chandelier.  To eliminate acoustic issues, they specified sustainable cork flooring.  They selected a refreshing palette of kelly green, umber, and the silvery grays found in local cacti.

The dining wall is approximately 43,000 1”x 2” glass tiles set vertically.  By alternating polished and matte finishes, the monochromatic stripe creates a watery effect. Sconces illuminate the glass at night and three MR16 spots light the table.

A collaboration of the designers, electricians and an artisan welder, the chandelier is 8’ in diameter and hangs 15’.  Half mirror globes reflect the room below and create a spoke-like shadow on the ceiling at night.

Updated with a rectilinear shape, the stainless steel fireplace contrasts the oversized porcelain tiles that mimic oxidized steel.  The “mantle” has an integrated light box.  The firebox is filled with specialty glass that diffuses the gas flames emulating fire dancing on ice. 

Modern and vintage furnishings with original art and sculpture from local artists accentuate the chic space.

To dramatize the 24’ ceilings, a custom chandelier was designed to hover and unite the open floor plan of this contemporary designer showhouse.  With a tight budget, the designers collaborated with an artisan welder and electrical supply houses to source materials to construct a massive light fixture.

The 8’ hoop was fabricated offsite and delivered for assembly.  A team of electricians and the welders carefully scaled the twin scaffolding as they lifted the hoop 12’ off the ground. Once stabilized, the electricians ascended and attached the cable supports to the joists.

Eighteen pre-measured electrical cords were dropped from the canopy and thread through the spacers welded inside the hoop.  Electricians wired the porcelain lamp holders at alternating drops beyond the band. 

For illumination, 3” and 5” half mirror globes were specified.  These energy efficient lamps are coated with an infrared reflective film on a precisely formed halogen capsule that redirects waste heat back to the lamp filament, reducing the energy needed to deliver light. 

Hung at alternating heights for rhythm, the half mirror globes reflect the room below and create a spoke-like shadow on the ceiling at night.

The narrow catwalk leading to the loft library was the only spot from which you could see the lake.  The designer transformed the space into a jewel box filled with comfortable seating to enjoy the views. 

On the catwalk, a reclaimed “mesquite stump” table with vintage bar stools provides a seated view of the lake.  She raised the safety railing to 42” and widened the handrail to 6”, creating a comfortable rail to lean upon.  The sustainable black bamboo floor was topped with a red rug that leads you to the contemplative lounge.

A “curtain” made of chrome bead chain rescued from a nightclub and river rock faintly obstructs the opening, creating intrigue.  The installation art of seemingly identical silver squares, each marked with a different brand of red lipstick, is symbolic of the absurdity of choices facing us daily.

Champagne-tinted metallic paint enhances the reflective quality of the crushed granite and mica wallcovering ascending up the 18’ wall and across the ceiling. Rhythmic glass pendants drop 10’ from the tall ceilings.  Alligator-embossed leather floor tiles, a laser-cut cowhide rug and a mohair weave improve acoustics.

 

Previous Showhouse Projects



NEW    living    dining    kitchens    bedrooms    bathrooms    services    press    products    Austin art

info@panacheinteriors.com

ALL CONTENT © 2008 PANACHE INTERIORS