Italian flavor

The lived-in ambiance that tends to give an older home a link with the past and a sense of tradition can also be achieved in a new home in the way it is decorated.

Interior designer Mark Cutler was asked to introduce a feeling of warmth and history into the large, open spaces of this 20,000 sq ft Italianate villa, with its dramatic atrium and double-height main living space.

"We wanted to give the house warmth to add a sense of age, so it didn't feel new," says Cutler.

The interior designer oversaw the completion of the interior, choosing wall colors and finishes, adding extra mahogany detailing and finding antique pieces to create the right ambiance and form the basis of an investment collection. To play down the grand scale of the main living space, the designer selected larger pieces, such as armoires.

"We also had reproduction furniture made on a slightly larger scale than the original antique pieces to suit the scale of the space better," he says.

Visual and practical warmth is enhanced by large Oriental rugs placed over Travertine stone floors.

"We placed a museum-quality rug in the entry foyer, which makes reproduction rugs elsewhere in the house appear to be of a similar quality."

Because the owners entertain on a large scale, Cutler had to ensure the house and outdoor room off the main living area included spaces equally comfortable for one or two people or for large groups. To do this, furniture is arranged in small groups and settings, offering the necessary flexibility, says Cutler.

For more details, contact Mark Cutler, Mark Cutler Design, 8656 Holloway Plaza Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90069, phone (310) 360 6212, fax (310) 360 6213. Email: mcutler@markcutlerdesign.com. Website: www.markcutlerdesign.com.

Story by: Trendsideas