Coastal Villa

For this sprawling villa on the French Riviera, Istomin channeled mid-century modern California style. The Seventies construction, “embedded” in the rock, cascades down to the shore. Pale blues, creams and grays soften the streamlined architecture and keep the focus on the sweeping coastal views, providing a gentle contrast to the Mediterranean sun. Furniture by 20th-century design icons William Haines and Karl Springer, and other pieces inspired by their work, add to this summer retreat’s mood of relaxed glamor. 

Re-covered in coral leather, the cerused-oak armchairs are the only furniture items original to the house and set the tone for the woodwork throughout. 

Bespoke rugs with a texture imitating a rocky beach define the different zones of the large living room. The contemporary art, including the watercolor by Francesco Clemente over the fireplace, was curated to blend with the space, while the pair of custom orange ceramic table lamps are by Christopher Spitzmiller.

In the dining room, the large 1970s table is by Karl Springer and the bespoke chairs are entirely upholstered in fabric. 

The metal dining chairs in the living room’s breakfast area are by William Haines. 

For the Venetian-plastered entrance hall, French artist Thomas Boog was commissioned to create the three shell-encrusted bas reliefs.

The main bedroom is located in a new extension to the house. Its length was calculated to accommodate a large-scale diptych painting by Lavrenty Bruni behind the bed. The pair of 1970s bedside lamps with rotating bases reiterate the Modernist style of the interior. 

In the wife’s boudoir, custom seating, upholstered with pastel-toned quilted fabrics, adds a touch of relaxation and comfort. The main focal point is the bespoke glass eglomise dressing table, while the curtains are adorned with a trim made from seashells. 

A lamp shade made to match the curtains is a classic Istomin touch in one of the house’s several guest bedrooms. The green zig-zag chest of drawers is one of his original designs.