Vacation Home

This house belongs to a large and friendly family, whose members spend a lot of time there throughout the year. The interiors of the house are so multi-layered that it feels as if many generations of the family have lived there. Objects with history to them were used in the decor of the rooms — art from the family collection, finds brought back from trips around the world…

The colored-marble floor was original to the house. To balance it, Istomin designed a plaster ceiling with a stencil painting. A fringed tablecloth and custom benches visually soften the strict geometry of the room. 

In the center of the living room is a sofa with a high tufted back, reminiscent of old train compartments. A touch of decadence is added by a large Chinese fan on the wall.

The antique fireplace and screen were purchased in France. On the floor is a restored Victorian English carpet.

Wallpaper with floral and bird motifs defined the look of the primary bedroom, which features many vintage items and fabrics. The pink pillows are made with a 19th-century velvet, while the Chinese porcelain figurines and vases, and Oriental carved-wood fans are from the client’s own collection. The portrait above the mantel is by Jean-Pierre Cassigneul. 

Kirill Istomin: “If you like a piece of furniture or artwork and want to buy it, but don’t know where to use it, buy it anyway! Eventually, it will definitely find its place in your home, because it, like the overall interior, reflects your taste. For example, this large painting by Donald Baechler was originally acquired by the clients for their city apartment. In the end, we decided to move it to the country house and create the entire design of the alcove seating area in the living room around it.”

This kitchen is inspired by grand estates from the turn of the 20th century. Both the antiqued-copper hood and large stove, and the distressed painted finish on the cabinets create a retro look. The dining chairs with floral-print slipcovers and the antique chandelier from 1900 “dressed” in a fringed “skirt” add a touch of coziness and warmth.

Kirill Istomin: “I’m convinced that antique furniture should not be viewed as museum pieces. They can and should be used! This Gothic Revival bookcase from an English castle found a new life in the kitchen. Glasses have taken the place of books and now, it serves as a display cabinet.”