Awesome: The Sheats-Goldstein Residence at night*

Since the 90s TV-Series “Beverly Hills, 90210”, one knows that this address is one of the most elegant ones in California. In this top quality location the Hollywood stars are next-door neighbors. Here lives the US-American real estate mogul James Goldstein, an eccentric fashion- and basketball enthusiast, who sits in the first row of every international fashion show and whose best friends are the top players of the NBA-League; a secret monger when it’s about his age or how he made his money. In the hills of Benedict Canyon, the cosmopolitan lives in a puristic villa with concrete triangles, steel beam and glass rhombus and overlooks Los Angeles from here, on good days even to the Pacific. 1963, on behalf of the couple Helen and Paul Sheat, the house was built by the architect John Lautner, until Goldstein acquired it in the 70s and, since then, continuously reconstructed.

Stunning view from the pool terrace to Los Angeles, on the horizon, the skyscrapers of downtown

The living room with a breathtaking view of Los Angeles*

The most beautiful tennis court of Los Angeles: let’s take a pic!

James Goldstein, expert for fashion, architecture and basketball

MyStylery: Jim, is your neighbor Rupert Murdoch actually still speaking to you? You buy off the whole region successively and expect the residents to put up with continual construction sites and the associated background noises.
James Goldstein (laughs): True! I’m not really making myself pleasant. The new project – Club James – is nearly done. Then it will be quite relaxed again. And also, after all these years I’ve never really seen Rupert Murdoch anyway.
MS: To build the new grounds, you took down the house which stood on there. Now there is a new construction with guest rooms and a nightclub, above all a tennis court. Why the private nightclub?
JG: There are no good clubs in LA, so I needed my own one. And the first parties where well received by my guests like Quentin Tarantino or Karolina Kurkova.

Five years ago still under construction: Nightclub James

Infront of the glazed bedroom with it’s completly opened windows, there is an outside whirlpool

MS: Why would one buy a house which is constantly in renovation?
JG: I love changes. The actual reason for buying the house was my afghan dog Natasha, the love of my life. These dogs love to run. Therefore I needed more space. So I thought this house would be the ideal. Also I’ve always been a big fan of the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wrights, who is from Wisconsin just like me. Coincidentally I was able to buy this house in 1972 and showed it John Lautner, one of Wrights’ pupils. He was shocked about the conditions and what the former owner had changed. They nearly destroyed the house, as they painted the concrete roof green and yellow. This is how our 15-year collaboration started, in which we transferred inside and outside of the house into its original condition, until John died. Now I work together with Duncan Nicholson.

Kitchen and counter were also designed by designer-legend John Lautner

MS: In the kitchen, the dining room and bathrooms one can now retract the sealing electronically, in the entrance hall there is a koi pond including a water fountain, the windows of your bedroom can be retracted as well… All this sounds pretty elaborate and expensive.
JG: Still there had never been a budget. It should always be realized, what is best for the house. This also applies to the new nightclub.
MS: Three Angels for Charly and The Big Lebowski – your house already served many film productions as a setting…
JG: … and Snoop Dogg got his music video produced here. Yes, this gave me a kick. I don’t open the house due to monetary reasons. I just want to have fun.  BvH

The dining room with a concrete and glass table and chrome leather chairs designed by John Lautner

James Goldstein in front of the stairs leading down to his private bedroom

Designer fashion is part of the lifestyle of James Goldstein. He knows all the top designers in person

Never without headgear: Part of the hat collection of James Goldstein

Room with a view: Watching L.A. downtown from the daybed

James with his VIP friends: fashion guru Karl Lagerfeld and model-icon Kate Moss

James’ retreat to relax and to chill

So cool!

Also the fireplace is made of concrete, beside an African sculpture

James Goldstein and the stars … everywhere in the house are framed photographs of James and his famous friends

The fashion-king and I

James Goldstein and me

The property is surrounded by exotic plants

Jim’s car collection includes a Rolls Royce Silver Cloud convertible from the 60s …

… and a Cadilliac from the 60s

Featured pic and photos marked* © ARTJOCKS

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One of the famous buildings of the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi is the Casa Milà on Passeig de Gràcia, which was built from 1906 to 1910 as a landmark of the Modernisme

There is hardly a city that impresses me more in terms of architecture than Barcelona. The famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi has created real eye-catchers with his architectural style – the Modernisme. Impressive buildings such as Casa Milà and Casa Batlló, whose bright sandstone facades are adorned with playful bays and balconies. Especially in the districts of Barri Gothic, Raval, Gràcia and the Art Nouveau Eixample district, the magnificent buildings line up like the pearls of a string.

Magnificent buildings especially in the districts of Barri Gothic, Raval, Gràcia and the Art Nouveau Eixample district

Barcelona is not only fascinating because of its architecture. A city located directly by the sea and a five-kilometer, palm-fringed beach promenade, the Passeig Maritim with numerous restaurants and Chiringuitos (Spanish for beach shack) are already a special way of life. Wonderful when you wake up in the morning looking at the harbor silhouette, which is possible, for example, if you stay at the hotel of the stylishly designed private member club “Sohohouse” (located directly opposite the beach mile, from 330 euros per night), which I will soon report in more detail on MyStylery.

Big rush in Antoni Gaudi’s fairytale park

Immediately after getting up I take a taxi up to the hill Turó del Carme to Parc Güell. Dive into the fairy tale forest, which Antoni Gaudi had originally planned as a garden-city and built from imaginative, broken pottery. Tip: The number of visitors to the Gaudi fairytale-forest is limited to 400 visitors. Definitely buy the tickets online before (admission 8 euros per person). The same applies to Barcelona’s landmark, the impressive Basilica Sagrada Familia – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The exploration of the vast Güell Parc with its arcades and flower columns, also designed by Gaudi, is free and worthwhile for the phenomenal views over Barcelona alone. You can also enjoy a mega-view of the harbor, the city and the sea from the Castell de Montjuïc on the 173-high mountain of the same name. During the Franco dictatorship the former 16th-century fortress was used as a military prison and torture chamber for unwelcome opponents of the regime and political prisoners.

Parc Güell and Antoni Gaudi’s fairytale park overlook Barcelona’s skyline and the sea

On my way back I walk 5.5 kilometers by foot. I explore my favorite district of Gràcia, which is, because of its art scene, not only popular amongst young people. The capital of Catalonia is not as crowded here as in the turbulent old town streets and on the always crowded Ramblas, the famous promenade with its street musicians and artists. A visit to Barcelona’s La Catedral is a must, not just for fans of gothic architecture. Tip: From 8.00 am to 12.30 pm and from 5.30 pm to 7 pm, admission on weekdays is free. I head for the Picasso Museum in Carrer Montcada and then shop in the surrounding chic fashion boutiques. Worth a detour to the Arc de Triomf and the adjacent boulevard Passeig de Lluis Companys, which leads to the Parc de la Ciutadella: Barcelona’s green lung is popular with locals and tourists, especially on Sundays and public holidays.

The Arc de Triomf and the adjacent Boulevard Passeig de Lluis Companys

My destination is the district of Barceloneta, the former fishing village that has awakened from a deep slumber since the 1992 Olympic Games and has been carefully restored since then. Nevertheless, the village charm has been preserved. Nowhere have I seen more clothes on clotheslines fluttering in front of the windows, as a result of which all over Barceloneta there is an intense scent of detergents and fabric softeners. Typical are the small and inexpensive tapas bars and corner bars. However, I want to have lunch with a view of the sea and walk on to the Platja de la Barceloneta. Below the bronze sculpture in the shape of a giant fish by star architect Frank Gehry, I enjoy Calamari L’Andalusa (14 Euro) in the restaurant “Bestial”. Delicioso – delicious!

Why is there an intense scent of detergents and fabric softeners throughout Barceloneta? Therefore!

My tip for the evening is the restaurant “La Dama”, a gourmet restaurant in the spectacular Beletage of the Casa Sayrach, a magnificent building in Gaudi style. The sumptuously decorated entrance with columns and Art Nouveau elevator alone is just about the limit. The plush atmosphere is reminiscent of the lounge times of the 20’s and could have sprung from one of the novels of my Spanish favorite author Ruiz Safon. The food – i.a. roast beef (Rosbif de vaca, 16 euros) and sea bass (Lubina mediterranea, 26 euros) were as good as the final nightcap at the bar. Salud! BvH

Gourmet restaurant “La Dama” in the spectacular Beletage of the Casa Sayrach

Eating in Barcelona

“Can Fisher”: The name says it all. Here you can feast on excellent fresh fish and paella and enjoy a direct view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Foodies must have a look at Barcelona’s most beautiful market hall, “La Boqueria”. But be aware: At lunchtime, tourists come pouring in to eat at one of the stalls. Alternatively, the “El Nacional” offers food and drinks from all corners of Spain at various cooking stations and bars in a gigantic hall.

Me sitting in the sun…Barcelona offers 4.2 kilometers of golden sandy beaches, just 10 minutes from the city center

Sleeping in Barcelona

“Chic and Basic Ramblas Hotels” (from 130 euros per night), “Motel One” Barcelona-Ciutadella (from 95 euros), “Room Mate Gerard” in the Eixamples district (from 180 euros).

Hotel tip: “The Neri” in the middle of the romantic old town with the excellent restaurant “a”

The palm-fringed seafront of Barcelona and Port Vell is five kilometers long btw

Arriving in Barcelona

For example, with EasyJet from 128 euros.

The journey time from the Aeroporto Barcelona to the city is about 20 to 30 minutes by taxi, the fare about 30 to 35 euros. The Aerobus runs every 5 to 10 minutes, single ticket for 5,90, there and back 10,20 Euro. There are also trains as well as the TMB airport bus line 46.
Speaking of bus: In Barcelona you can also explore the city for an initial overview via an on-and-off bus tour.

More tips for Barcelona

A culinary paradise (not only) for vegans: The weekend brunch in the “Flax & Kale” restaurant. Tip: The avocado toast with homemade bread. Glutenfree of course!

Makes one speechless: The monumental architecture of the Gaudi Cathedral Sagrada Familia – the symbol of Barcelona…

…As imaginative as if it had sprung from a Hollywood backdrop

One of the most beautiful places in the Catalan capital: The Placa Reial

Mekka for all foodies: Barcelona’s most beautiful market hall “La Boqueria”

Having lunch under palm trees and with views to the Mediterranean – for example in the restaurant “Bestial”

La Catedral Barcelona: Typical and traditional is the sardana dance that can be watched on Saturday afternoons next to the Catedral Barcelona

The Sardana is a symbol of unity and pride of the Catalans

Parc de la Ciutadella: Barcelona’s green lung is popular with locals and tourists

The marina of Barcelona

Barcelona is the city of contrasts: The Mediterranean metropolis with its 1.5 million inhabitants offers not only Art Nouveau but also award-winning skyscraper architecture

Let’s have an Apertivo in a vermouth bar: Barcelona’s favorite drink

Cool pub in a former garage: The “Auto Rosellón”…

…a top location for breakfast, lunch and dinner

More travel stories you can find here.

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Bruges – Belgian pearl of medieval architecture. Here the market place “Markt”

For me as a Lübeck-native, a visit to the Belgian city of Bruges is like a déjà vu. Only that my hometown can not keep up with this collection of picturesque patrician houses, baroque city palaces and classical façades. Walking through Bruges’ old town, the many canals and bridges are reminiscent of Amsterdam. You can feel it in every corner of Bruges, that this architectural jewel was one of the most successful commercial cities from the 13th to the 15th century and it impresses me in which historical homogeneity the city still presents itself seven centuries later.

Bruges was never destroyed by wars or large-scale fires, which is why the famous historic center – since 2002 Unesco World Heritage Site – has been preserved

To get in the mood for my visit to Bruges, I watched the US film “In Bruges” with Colin Farrell and asked myself how they kept away the tourist crowds during filming. I was warned by my Belgian friend Winny: “Yes, it is always crowded in Bruges. Nevertheless, you should have been there once.” Maybe not on a weekend and certainly not when 20,000 football fans storm the city and celebrate the championship title of their club FC Bruges at the market in the old town. Day tourists flood the historic walls in every season from no later than 11 am and roll through the narrow streets of this picturesque village in West Flanders. Those who want to escape the crowds during the day simply walk beyond the respective squares such as “Markt” and “Burg” and suddenly find themselves in quiet residential areas or in greened patios. A break is also offered by the Beguinage, which is indeed a sightseeing highlight, however in which groups have no access.

Fancy a break? The Beguinage is a green oasis of peace, but in the center of the city

Culinary, Bruges has adjusted to the tourists: around the market, castle and other “places to see” there are many restaurants, unfortunately not always good, and often with overpriced food. And although I know, you should spare mussels in months without the letter “r”, I ordered Moules Frites. The Belgian specialty is offered here all year round, is frozen foods and of doubtful quality. My tip: have lunch or dinner at one of the many Michelin and Gault Millau restaurants, many of which offer comparatively affordable lunch menus. Or one discovers the locals’ spots beyond the tourist paths, such as the café “Sanseveria” in the Predikherenstraat.

Discover the locals’ spots beyond the tourist paths, such as the “Sanseveria” in the Predikherenstraat: The hip side of medieval Bruges

When the night comes over Bruges, the day tourists have left again, and the city and its inhabitants sigh recognizably. The old town dives into a special light, which effectively stages the old walls. Just around the corner from my hotel Prinsenhof lies the gourmet restaurant Guillaume. I enjoy a delicious menu and a super nice service. On the way to the hotel I experience the now deserted streets of Bruges by moonlight. Pure romance! A feeling that would hardly have come up a few hours earlier.  BvH

Bruges at night

Triennale Bruges

Art installation by Studio KCA at Jan van Eyck place

Attention, art fans: Until September 16, the Triennale Art Exhibition in Bruges awaits with 15 – partly accessible – works and installations that are spread over the entire Old Town. Central theme: Liquid Society highlights the implications of ever-changing interpersonal relationships. Art and city can thus be jointly explored by a tour.

Below the blue whale, the gourmet restaurant Spinola has built up its kitchen. Art enjoyment from close proximity

Speaking of enjoyment: This café on the Biskajersplein square is only available during the Triennale

Stretching towards the sky: Sculpture Lanchals – long necks – by John Powers reminiscent of a gooseneck

Temporary bridge installation by Jaroslaw Kozakiewicz

Want to cool down? From the pink plastic pavilion of the Spanish architect Selgascano you can dare to jump into the canal

Urban Model Belgian artist Wesley Meuris called his triennial contribution to architecture and urban life

Minne Floating School by Kunlé Adeyemi: A kind of floating school, dealing with climate change and an incentive to create renewable energy

Planning is everything: What is where at the Triennale Bruges 2018?

Where to bed in Bruges

There are some promising boutique hotels in Bruges such as the Van Cleef, Hotel Die Swaene or the Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce. The Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is beautifully decorated (I love the Belgian interior with its soft colors) and is right by the canal. With its historic façade, it is one of the most photographed spots in the city. An aspect that causes some unrest. I decide for the Prinsenhof, which is within walking distance of three minutes from the market in a quiet side street.

Boutique Hotel Die Swaene

The Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce is right by the canal…

…and beautifully decorated. I love the Belgian interior with its soft colors

Rozenhoedkaai: one of the most photographed spots in the city. What a terrific view!

Hotel Prinsenhof…

…with its pretty lobby and Delft tiles surrounding the fireplace

My spacious room is decorated with beautiful fabrics and equipped with a separate toilet. The service is professionally friendly, but unfortunately not cordial

Bruges and Culinary

I let myself be spoiled in the star restaurant Guillaume. The gourmet restaurant Guillaume in Korte Lane is located in an old cottage. From the outside it seems almost a bit unspectacular, so we almost passed it. I opt for the three-course menu “Crazy Creations” for 52 euros: Amuse Gueule from reinterpreted Vitello tonato, roast beef and pike-perch. As a starter: lobster, Fois Grois, Iberico ham and exotic fruits. Followed by guinea fowl with roasted diced tomatoes and a raspberry slice for dessert. We renounce the wine and choose the Rosé Luberon from Provence, 32 euros a bottle.

I let myself be spoiled in the star restaurant Guillaume

As a starter: lobster, Fois Grois, Iberico ham and exotic fruits…yummy!

At the Aux Merveilleux at “Eiermarkt” place you not only enjoy the view to an imposing chandelier …

…but also a delicious breakfast with oven-warm bread and croissants

Welcome to chocolate paradise: Belgium’s chocolate is legendary, but there are also qualitative differences here. Therefore, not every truffle praline offered on the Wollestraat in umpteen side-by-side laying confectioneries, is of superior quality…

…A feast for the eyes: The chocolate mountains tower up high

The Assiette Blanche restaurant is cozy with its wood paneling. A lunch menu is served for 37€:

After the Amuse-Gueule – Anchovy and Parmesan-stuffed Macaron – a deep-fried sole with lettuce and aioli is served…

…followed by grilled hip of lamb with blanched and pureed carrots and wildflowers

Dessert: Rhubarb and strawberries with meringue and vanilla ice cream. A glass of open white wine from the Macon is offered for 7 euros. The service is excellent and especially friendly

Lovely Bruges

Passage to “Burg” place

Richly designed facades on the houses around “Burg” place

Here the town hall

Lush Baroque, wherever you look

Long waits and queues in front of the boat launchers for a ride on the canals of Bruges. Tip: Boots take a half-hour trip to neighboring Damme three times a day, the formerly important trading city. Previous reservation required

Beautiful architecture in “Kortewinkel” street as here the bar Groot Vlaenderen

…with impressive door details

…and again …

…and an imposing private door portal

Above the rooftops of Bruges

Impressive I find the roof structures with the winding chimneys and playful towers. What a splendor!

Does Harry Potter live here?

It’s best to always keep your eyes turned upwards so that nothing escapes you

…such as this magnificent house facade

I love the Belgian style with the pale red clinker and the darkened door and window frames. Sooo noble!

Places of silence

Yes, they exist, the tranquil places of peace and silence in Bruges

…like this delightful red-clinker cottage located right by the canal

Meeting point for the ducks and swans of Bruges to the opposite of the Beguinage

Tower with a view and beautiful shutters

The enchanted garden paradise in the middle of the city of Bruges and directly by the water: more is not possible

Idyllic street café Terrastje

Only a few cobblestone streets away from the Bruges hustle and bustle, you enter a quiet residential area that reminds a little of London with its bay windows and front yards

And of course, windmills are as much a part of Bruges as the old rampart along the canals, on which they were once built

Info Triennale Bruges

triennalebrugge.be

More travel tips you find here!

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View to the harbor and Sandtorkai, in the background the new concert hall Elbphilharmonie

Who would have thought! The new Hamburg concert hall Elbphilharmonie is completed! Just two months before its official opening, visitors can now explore the Plaza platform at a height of 37 meters. The new landmark of the Hanseatic City in the middle of the HafenCity is a brilliant architecture and I must say that this monumental pearl has filled me with a certain pride. 

A must for all architecture lovers

Elbe and Elbphilharmonie: So cool!

The Marco Polo terrace

No Hamburgers would probably ever come to this idea, to visit the Hafencity because for its architecture – the so vaunted HafenCity has evolved primarily into a tourist playground. But now since the Hamburg concert hall “Elbphilharmonie” is finished – the new and super expensive opera house of the architects Herzog & de Meuron – the Hamburgers probably might channge their minds.

A now common sight: The “Elbphilharmonie” – the most expensive concert hall ever with construction cranes a few months ago

Hamburg my pearl, you wonderful town

Dalmannkai on corner Großer Grasbrook

I think a visit to the HafenCity is a must for all architecture fans. This is where luxury apartments in partial futuristic architecture, such as the Marco Polo Tower can be found.

The Marco Polo Tower: As always in life, everything is a matter of taste. I like the blossoming cherry tree in front of the tower

One can say that the star architects truly put all their effort in, which is especially nice to see from the waterfront. There is a five-star hotel, a university, restaurants, numerous residential and office spaces.

Award winning architecture: HafenCity Hamburg

Hamburg’s HafenCity is one of the biggest urban development projects; a new district emerged in the former Freeport, which will double the population of the city.

The  Marco Polo terrace

The construction progress should be completed in 2025. Until then, a lot of water will flow down the river Elbe and one can be excited. What sounds so far, is less than one kilometer away from the City Hall, and is situated in the centre of the Hanseatic city. A nice walk – including “Speicherstadt” and the new, fantastic concert hall Elbphilharmonie. BvH

A lot of water will flow down

Skyscraper: Am Kaiserkai

Info Hafencity Hamburg:

www.hafencity.com

Info Elbphilharmonie:

www.elbphilharmonie.de

Merken

Merken

Merken

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Livingroom: The painting by Mauritius (1987) shows Sigmund Loewe, the inventor of television next to the physicist Albert Einstein. Sofa by Living Divani, Vintage chair by Hans Wegner

A cool new building in Berlin, in the attic of the summerhouse there is a modern living room with several floors – Japanese Zen-garden inclusive. The man of the house is a bustling businessman, a cosmopolitan, who finds the balance to his intensive travel life in the growing of orchids. Of course with the appropriate greenhouse.

Internet Entrepreneur, author and Art Collector Hubertus Hoffmann – always busy

MyStylery: Growing of orchids is an unusual hobby for a metropolitan amid a metropolis like Berlin…
Hubertus Hoffmann: True. But these plants amaze me since the age of 16. It’s not about money or stocks, but about beauty and exotic. The greenhouse is my romantic little jungle.

Zen garden and green house on the roof top terrace

MS: Your roof garden is a little green dream. Was it the inspiration for the initiative “Green on the Roof”?
HH: Unfortunately there is less and less green in the cities, but huge, unused roof surfaces. Our target of more than 500 supporters of “Green on the Roof” is, to greening half of all roof areas over the next few years. This is technically feasible. Regrettably, the 100 year old, antiquated authority regulations are often in the way, they must be adapted to the needs of today.

Dining area and open kitchen with a portrait of Twiggy

MS: You lived in many international cities. Is there something you miss in Germany?
HH: A lot of the Germans often lack the humor, the airy. Same applies to their flats. Most of them are still fun-free zones and also stuffy.

The reception committee in the entrée is “revolution kitsch” from China. Andy Warhol’s “Cow” keeps an eye on it

MS: Apropos: You draped a funny welcoming committee in the hallway…
HH: …that is revolution kitsch from China. The porcelain-figures I spotted at a flea market in Hong Kong. Above Mao and Co hangs the pink cow from Andy Warhol, that’s a good contrast, isn’t it?

A special souvenir to Hubertus Hoffmann is the biker jacket of the Rolling Stones of one of their last concerts in the US

The photos of Keith Richards have been shooted by Peter Lindbergh

The guitar of the Rolling Stones signed by all band members

MS: Absolutely. What about the framed biker-jacket?
HH: This one’s from one of the last concerts of the Rolling Stones in the USA, beneath is a guitar from a Stones-concert. All members of the band signed it. But I also like the Bismarck-portrait from Lenbach from 1897, which I bought at an auction. Besides stands the officer sword of my father. Every piece has its relevance.

The Bismarck portrait was painted by Franz von Lenbach in 1897, below the officer’s sword from Hubertus father

The home office of Hubertus Hoffmann

MS: Which piece are you especially proud of?
HH: In 1988 I bought a poster from Gerhard Richter for 50 DM in my hometown Goslar by the Harz, when he got the Kaiserring. Back then he also signed the “candle” for me. Today the painting’s value increased a thousand-fold. I also really like my little African collection; especially the antique headman’s chair from Ethiopia or the headman’s jewelry, both pieces cost 700 Euros only.

Gerhard Richter has signed the poster “Die Kerze”

MS: A succeeded lifestyle is…
HH: …when the flat frames as an event, old and new, inexpensive and gallant being combined. My afternoon tea for example simply tastes best from the old Rosenthal-cups from my mother. Important to me are good photographs and paintings on the wall. Many have amazing furniture, but awful art or none at all.

The ensuite bathroom …

… is adjacent to the bedroom. In the background the limited Helmut Newton book “Sumo”

MS: From your point of view, what are furnishing-sins?
HH: TV’s. They are black holes which get bigger and bigger and start dominating rooms. I hang a picture in front of every TV-screen, which, if needed, moves to the side when pressing a button. Often flats are lumbered up. Furnishing should be easy with cozy snuggle-corners.

Art by Christo on the corridor …

… and so it turns to a gallery

MS: Is there an interior-investment, which you wouldn’t repeat?
HH: As a student I lived, probably like most, with Ikea-furniture. Not one piece lived through the years. Since all these years probably around 15.000 DM came about, which I should have invested in art or a good furniture piece. I can only advice against buying mass merchandise. Vintage-furniture and good photo-art however increase in value. By the way, the best deals can be made at online-auctions. BvH

The robot man by Nam Yun Paik

The staircase leads to the upper floor. Again the functional architecture convinced

In the gallery, the photographic work “Pope” …

… and “Dalai Lama”, both by Tom Lemke – created in collaboration with Hubertus Hoffmann – entitled “Champions and The Art of Tolerance”

On the upper floor there is the guest area

A great mix of art and souvenirs

African Art and a photographic work by Michael Poliza

Painting by A.R. Penck

Humor may not be missing in the interior: The figures are flea market finds from Hong Kong. Hubertus bought “Angie” in Berlin. Love it!

For more information

about “Grün aufs Dach” (green on the roof) on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gr%C3%BCn-aufs-Dach/1565000283717883?fref=ts

The post At home with Hubertus Hoffmann appeared first on My Stylery.

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Claudia von Schacky likes to surround herself with beautiful things – even when working. The china “Perlrand” is from Nymphenburg

She is the specialist of fine leather- and fur fashion and made it to a “one-woman-show” within ten years of entrenching on the hard-earned fashion-market: Claudia von Schacky, designer and successful entrepreneur – also in other German-speaking countries – with three employees, a showroom in Munich and in New York and two collections per year. The native East-Westphalian, who did a classic tailoring training and absolved a fashion degree in Munich, subsequently working for Escada, Ralph Lauren and Rena Lange, wanted to do something of her own after 25 years: She created the perfectly fitting leatherpants made of stretching leather. Soon, her clients wanted more, which is why now the label Schacky and Jones also stands for trendy leather dresses and cool fur coats – with certified materials, emphasizes the designer. Since 2005, Claudia lives in Berlin with her husband Andreas Freiherr von Schacky.

The designer skillfully mixes old pieces with new ones. Many furniture and pictures are from auctions. I love Claudia’s cozy style

Fashion designer Claudia von Schacky in her livingroom

MyStylery: How does a chosen inhabitant of Munich end up in the middle of the capitals heart?
Claudia von Schacky: After more than 20 years in Munich I needed a change of scene. Berlin is so inspirational and full of creativity, it really fascinates me. There is permanently something new to discover: Restaurants, shops, exhibitions. I constantly meet new people. Berlin is simply a lot more open minded and more cosmopolitan than the straightforward and beautiful Munich.

Amaryllis in an antique glass vase

MS: In the fashion industry – especially in the international – Berlin and its Fashion-Week is often derided…
CvS: Unjustly! The first fair of the season takes place in Berlin and hence it is important, even though no orders are written here. Berlin gives more impetus than every other city. The only alternatives to Berlin are the abroad metropolises.
MS: Why did you establish yourself in the middle of Berlin and not in the west of the city?
CvS: There is nothing new in the west (laughs). Charlottenburg is like Schwabing. And this is what I had for all these years. I am totally excited about the modern architecture in Mitte, especially in the townhouses in Caroline-von-Humboldt-Weg. Our house was designed by the architect Bernd Albers. No townhouse looks like the other. Some have super modern facades; others stand more for the New Objectivity. There are convoluting-historicizing facades, which remind of the townhouses in London, Amsterdam or the ones on New York Upper West Side. An amazing, prizewinning ensemble, where we feel very comfortable.

The Townhouses in Caroline-von-Humboldt-Weg in Berlin Mitte …

… with different facade design. Award-winning architecture

MS: … and for architecture-lovers it is the obligatory program of sightseeing….
CvS: True, the tourists are dropped off in bus-caravans. But I don’t mind at all. Quite the contrary, I find it funny.

Claudia von Schacky loves porcelain of Nymphenburg, like this Irish Setter

MS: What mattered to you for the arrangement of the flat?
CvS: I’m trying to make things differently and always end up with the same color scheme. I like dark colors and the whole palette of muddy colors.

Furnishings and walls are decorated in warm mud tones. The painting above the sofa is from Karl-Friedrich Lessing

A chic mix: Baroque velvet cushions combined with simple ones from Ikea, which Claudia von Schacky embellished with handmade beading

MS: When it comes to your interior design, you didn’t really adapt to the cool, puristic capital-look.
CvS: I love it modern, but still classic and thus combine old with new. We collected a lot over the years and partly bought it at auctions. Our chairs in the dining room are Art Deco and above hangs a Murano-chandelier, which I could never part with.

The Sabel antelope comes from a hunt in Tanzania, the ancient Murano chandelier is a souvenir from Italy

Claudia von Schackys husband brought the zebra from Namibia

MS: You are surrounded by one or two exotics here, where for example is the zebra fur from?
CvS: My husband shot it in Namibia. This is also where the Sable antelope in the dining room is from. Andreas is forest manager and has a forestry near Berlin, where I gladly accompany him on weekends.
Best I like it out there, amid the nature, in a different world and breathe in deeply.  BvH

What an decorative eye-catcher: the Kudah is guarding the staircase

The poster was the invitation to an exhibition. The depicted skirt was sewn from all the skins of the collection

This drawing is the first one that Claudia Schacky bought at an auction

The modern chandelier is a break in style in the harmonious room design

The ancient China cabinet was also purchased in an auction …

… Japanese vases and figurines from the 18th century, brought from a trip to Osaka

“Sumo” by Helmut Newton (2000)

Also for the bedroom Claudia von Schacky chose her tried and tested color concept. The bedspread is made from fine cashmere, the kilims are antique with beautiful colors!

Chinese, colored ink drawings from the 19th century are hanging above the bed head

Lightreflections: The chandeliers in the hallway give a decorative light

Contact Claudia von Schacky:

www.schackyandjones.com

The post At home with fashiondesigner Claudia von Schacky appeared first on My Stylery.

The redstone villa in Fontenay-sous-Bois with it’s black slate roof. Who wouldn’t want to live here?

Her French is accent-free and her classic elegance typical Parisienne: Katharina Schmitter came as au pair to France, studied History of Art and Textile Design in Paris. There the Munich-raised designer lives since 27 years, works for Hermès and Boussac, before she came into charge of the design of the Ardecora-Collection by the German fabric producers Zimmer und Rohde. Luxury Hotels like the Costes are stocked with her creations. Eleven years ago she moved in a romantic, 110 years old turn of the century-villa in Fontenay-sous Bois on the outskirts of the French capital, hidden behind walls clad in ivy and a high, squeak gate where she still lives with her family.

It’s always good to have a friend in Paris… Here the entry shows the original a hundred years old floor tiles

Textile designer Katharina Schmitter – as beautiful as her designs

MyStylery: Your house could have been served as a set for the movie „Amélie“…
Katharina Schmitter: Indeed! It was love at first sight when I found the house in an advert. It’s important to me that the children grew up in a green environment rather than in an effervescent city centre.
MS: Isn’t it a great temptation to put up new curtains in your house for every season? I mean as a textile designer you’re close to the source…
KS: No, quite the reserve in fact: at first I didn’t want to have any of my collections in my house. I thought I would need some space. But then my family convinced me and on the contrary they’re hanging now.

Livingroom and library

Katharina designed the curtain fabric for her Ardecora-Collection for Zimmer and Rohde

MS: Besides the decorative part, do textiles not also convey a feeling of comfort and warmth?
KS: Not necessarily. There are textiles that should create the opposite. They radiate a cool elegance. But this isn’t me. I’m not interested in industrial manufacturing or smooth surfaces. There are so many cold and unstructured things that surround us already.
MS: Your textiles remind of a homage of magnificent, times long past…
KS: Yes they’re very precious and extraordinary, handcrafted after old traditions. Hereby the whole thing gets its liveliness and emotion. My textiles are mainly such dominant as they could get in concurrence to pictures.

Fabric samples of the Mulberry collection

Lying sculpture in the library

The Buddha sculptures are from Asia

MS: Does that mean that one should rather abandon art, if one decides for your textiles?
KS: The question lies in the focus. Where is the creative focus in the apartment? There’s no need for opulent curtains if there are great paintings and art on the wall, which dominate the room already.

To Katharina Schmitter decorative light is important. How beautiful is the reflecting chandelier in the mirror…

MS: Are you thinking of sales figures while working on your new collection?
KS: My textiles suit best in big old houses that have a patina. That’s what I’ve got in my eyes when I’m working. It’s all about luxury and quality and also about the “special something” that didn’t exist before, but is still requested by the costumer.

Fabrics from Africa become a wall decoration

MS: Your dressing room is literally bursting at the seams – how many dresses and pairs of shoes do you have?
KS: Many! Too many! Textiles attract me, in every respect. Dresses and shoes are my passion. And that’s why I always need more space although I already get rid of things sometimes – that’s a question of the right moment though. However my absolute “shrine” is the handwritten cookbook of my mother that contains all my favourite German recipes back from my childhood. It’s my favourite memento.  BvH

Katharina bought the portrait of a girl in an auction

Antique chandelier from the south of France

Small remise in the garden. How romantic is this?

Sundowner in the garden with the family

The fantastic world of Katharina Schmitter

Cheers – Santé! Champagne is always a good idea!

The covered entry with wrought iron details

The fine, brocated details are very typical for the Gründerzeit

Still life with bike – the black entrance in the background

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Star architect Matteo Thun and I at the design fair Salone del Mobile in Milan

His designs are well known, you’ve experienced them already – of that I’m sure – because you’ve either sat or slept on them: Designer Matteo Thun and his designs are global and award wining: Hotels like the Side-Hotel in Hamburg and the Marriot in Venice, china for Rosenthal and Alessi, watches for Bulgari and Swatch. Thun was a student of Oskar Kokoschka, is graduated doctor of architecture, has been a founder of Sottsass Associati in 1981 and also of the legendary design-group Memphis. In 1984 he has started his company Thun & Partner for architectural-, design-, and communication-projects. Matteo Thun lives in Milano, where I have met with him, in the course of the design fair Salone del Mobile, for an interview.

Matteo Thun defines himself in his work by eco non ego – eco instead of ego

MyStylery: At the Salone del Mobile 2016 the apparent trend was wood namely in all living areas, from the kitchen to the bathroom. How do you explain the revival of the material?
Matteo Thun: Wood is a reaction to the inanimated period of the 90s, where minimalistic design got colder and colder and emotions vanished from the surface. Now we have a change of paradigm: During the last century concrete and cement were dominating. Now we have the century of wood. I am an architect and I believe me, it is much easier constructing things with wood than with cement.

Walnut table ‘Icon’ from Riva1920. Design by Matteo Thun

MS: You have just designed the wooden table ‘Icon’ for the the Italian furniture brand Riva 1920. Where did the collaboration result from?
MT: I’ve worked with wood and also with Riva for a long time now, because it’s the only company nearby Milan that works with solid wood and not laminated wood. That complies with my credo: The truth and not the lie.
MS: What is the most important project you’re working on right now?
MT: The system “Welcome Homes” refugee centers that are being deployed Germany-wide. We have deliberately opted for wood. There is no alternative if you want to build fast and inexpensively. In this case emotions didn’t play a part, it’s just plainly and simply the factor time.

“I am an architect and I believe me, it is much easier constructing things with wood than with cement.”

MS: Which design collaboration would you reject?
MT: Everything around the car and everything that has to do with garments – that’s nothing for me.
MS: Is there something you haven’t conceptualized yet but would like to build?
MT: I would like to build a church without a roof for Pope Frances, as a gift for a man, who has changed Rome and therefore hopefully our beautiful country and our society.
MS: Where will the church be?
MT: Wherever he wants.
MS: Is he already aware of it?
MT (laughs): No, not yet.

“The ‘Welcome Homes’ is a system for refugee centers”, Matteo Thun explains to me. “We build new houses for new arrivals. They can also be used for social housing.”

MS: What is your current project?
MT: We’re 80 employees solely in Milano and just as much at the construction sites and we have many of them (laughs). The best project currently however is our digital platform ‘Matteo Thun Atelier’. I would like to invite you to visit this platform and you will realize that you’re a designer. You can create everything your house needs by yourself. It doesn’t matter if it’s a table or a chair. You don’t need a designer. I am convinced that the future belongs to Losgröße* eins (lot size one) …
MS: What does that mean?
MT: That means that you can put together the chair you want yourself.
MS: Without any previous knowledge?
MT: Without any previous knowledge. We are all designers. Democracy has won. Take the Nike shoe as an example. You can create the shoe you want. That is unique and not even more expensive. And that’s exactly what we are trying to do with this platform, especially for our hotels. Every interior designer can create whatever they need for their project, with our specification. We have finally made design accessible for everyone.
MS: But didn’t you exclude yourself with this process?
MT (laughs): I am already excluded. Since the 90s I don’t sign any of my projects with my name anymore. From time to time it may leak through that I am responsible for it but I don’t emphasize on generating value with my name. The value stands for itself. It is your vision and something you want. BvH

“With ‘Matteo Thun Atelier’ we have actually carried design to the grave.”

Info:

*With a lot size you denote the quantity of products of a production order

Contact Matteo Thun:

www.matteothun.com

The post Matteo Thun: “We are all designers.” appeared first on My Stylery.

Insights into the Stahl House in Los Angeles

Two years ago I had the unique experience to leave my Berlin life behind and move to Los Angeles for the duration of six months. An amazing chance and I tried to make the best of it: For example, the frame and first contents for MySylery were developed there. California – especially Palm Springs – is an Eldorado for architecture enthusiasts. But L.A. has a lot to offer as well architectural wise. I don’t necessarily mean the multi-million dollar villas in Beverly Hills and Bel Air. Anyone who comes to the City of Angels should absolutely include the Stahl House (also known as Case Study House no.22) into their sightseeing program.

The bluest sky in competition with the turquoise pool

Named after it’s owner, former American Football Player C. H. “Buck” Stahl, American architect Pierre Koenig designed a modern glass construction in 1959, which by all means – if one doesn’t know any better – could also pass as a current design. Large-scale glazing as well as the use of industrial material such as steel are nothing spectacular in the minimalistic architecture nowadays – but in the 1950s it was an absolute first. Till this day the Stahl House is still in possession of the Stahl family.

Wow, what a view! On the right the Skyline of Santa Monica

The drive alone to this impressive iconic building is a highlight for itself: From Sunset Boulevard you have to drive up the partially narrow and steep streets into the Hollywood Hills. As a driver I’m constantly hoping that as little cars as possible are coming my way. From up here you have a full view over Los Angeles. When the view is good – without smog or fog – you can see the skyline of Downtown Los Angeles on the left hand and on the other side the Pacific Ocean at the horizon. What a truly stunning view!

View to the horizon

The Stahl House is not only exceptionally situated. What is mostly not possible with other ‘case study’ houses: you can also have a tour of the inside. Melissa Stahl, a friendly woman in her late-forties welcomes me and the other tour members while conducting the small car-convoy onto the restricted parking area. The mother of three and wife of one of the Stahl sons very personally narrates the experiences of her husband, who has spent his childhood here. The construction of the building then cost 35.000 US dollars. Today there are buying offers of over 15 million dollars. But the Stahl’s don’t even think about selling this incredible piece of architecture. Even though none of them lives here and the preservation of the building is connected with a lot of work and money.

Clare and I have decided: we move here!

In the late nineties the landmarked building has been extensively renovated and today it is furnished with modern design classics. How Melissa’s parents-in-law have lived here is largely only documented on the framed family photos. The kitchen however is – beside the fridge – still maintained in its originality. And the guest-toilette, a transcendence of the taste of the 70s: brown-orange flowered retro wallpapers, flowery Pril-stickers on the tiles, behind the toilette a green fluffy carpet sticking on the wall. This little imperfection is everything but design-award-worthy, therefore much more authentic. After all, there have been real people living in this monument. BvH

I was a bit queasy when I look down the steep slope. The L-shaped building has been built on a hill which had seemed not useable for construction

MyStylery’s Tip:

Book your online tickets for a tour through the Stahl-House before your stay in L.A., the tours are restricted to 25 people max and extremely popular. Tickets from 35 US Dollar. By the way, the Stahl House will be closed from May 26th to June 5th 2016

The entrance

The south wing is completely glazed from the floor to the steel roof and offers an incredible view over the city from each room. The original simple glazing slightly broke and was later replaced with break-proof glass

The kitchen however is still maintained in its originality – beside the fridge

Since 1999, the Stahl House is a listed building …

… and has been decorated with designer furniture such as the dining table by Warren Platner

In 1960, Arts and Architecture, a magazine for experimental residential living, included the Stahl House into the ‘Case Study Houses Program’

I don’t know what attracts me more? The gorgeous vase or the wow-view behind …

The open stone fireplace separates the living and dining area

One of two bedrooms. On the bedside table a photograph of the owner Buck Stahl, who enjoyed from here a panoramic view …

… to the pool and the city of L.A.

Sure, that an Eames Lounge Chair may not be missing in the Stahl House

Anyone wanting to go inside has to take off his shoes!

Buck Stahl, the owner already acquired the property in 1954 and built terraces in the following years to prepare it for the construction …

… Until his meeting with Pierre Koenig he handcrafted many models for his house

After nine months, in June 1960, the constructions ended. With this house Koenig tried to show, that industrial materials such as steel were suitable for residential buildings. Adventurous are the unsecured hillsides – something the building authorities would surely not approve today

I could sit here for hours and enjoy the unique view over Los Angeles

The house also served as a production location for movie- and photoshoots …

… for example detective Colombo alias Peter Falk investigated here and Leonardo DiCaprio fled here as an alleged pilot in ‘Catch Me If You Can’ (2002)

The Stahl House, still in private possession of the Stahl family, has been awarded numerous times and is included in many lists of significant architecture. Among others: „America’s Favorite Architecture “ and „The best houses of all time in L.A. “

Contact:

www.stahlhouse.com

The post A visit to the Stahl House in L.A. appeared first on My Stylery.