An expansive, multi-level residential project overlooking the Mediterranean Sea was designed to give an airy mood, while using custom finishes and design pieces that are easy to live with. The entrance to the residence was designed by Gregory using white and black marble in a geometric patterned motif. The idea was to make the hallways visually interesting as a piece of art, and have it be a first stop before entering the home of the client. The formal sitting area overlooking the sea, features a settee in a marine toned velvet upholstery, bringing a sense of the outside elements into the space. A pair of sinuous Gio Ponti Armchairs were sourced and remade with custom upholstery, and a Wendell Castle “Long Night” chair, coming from Carpenter’s Gallery sits opposite. Jean Marc Lelouche’s polished bronzed “Osselet” consoles and Ado Chale’s table, also in bronze, play off the softer furniture to a harmonious effect. In a more relaxed sitting area, a creamy “Mister” Sofa by Philip Starck made for Cassina, creates an inviting mood, where one can linger and enjoy the suggestive views. To give more structure to the area, the DC1204 bench by Vincent de Cotiis was sourced. A monumental bronze totem by Francois Kovacs, whose early career as a molecular scientist and researches shaped his artistic forms and designs brings an organic feel to the area.Another notable piece in the home, is the Yonel Lebovici “Soucoupe Grande Modele” floor lamp, made in 1978. The designer’s background in aeronautics is seen clearly in the piece, as it’s shape is not quite unlike a UFO, made of polished aluminum and nickeled steel. Next to the rare lamp is a Minotti Sofa and two sourced midcentury armchairs by Marco Zanuso. Two handblown glass “Bell Tables” by Sebastian Herkner from ClassiCon were also sourced. A standing area in the salon is centered around a custom bar made out of polished steel, with a one-off designed candleholder, both by Gregory. The multi material cupboard has a patterned cut glass mirror that sits atop the marble structured piece, with bronze and leather finishings.The sweeping structure of the house gave much opportunity to source pieces, create custom designs, and use interesting details of finishes; showing the versatility of Gregory’s creative choice in materials and stylistic research.
Beirut, 2015