Showhouses are to the design industry what fashion is to the runway. An opportunity for designers to flex their creative muscle and whet their design appetites. And while the results are always stunning, it leaves us to wonder what the houses looked like “before.” Some were vacant or newly constructed and in a few cases, the interiors were already flawlessly designed.
Before the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach made its debut in February, it was a breathtaking residence designed and owned by world-renowned antiques dealer and designer, Lars Bolander and his artist wife, Nadine Kalachnikoff. Built over a decade ago, the Plantation style home known as ‘Bamboo Hill’ was inspired by Dutch and African architecture. A tribute to openness and light.
The Plantation style home is a tribute to openness and light.
Nearly all the rooms in the 8751 square foot home open to the outdoors, a seamless integration between the inside and outdoor spaces. The interior was a thoughtfully layered homage to the couples travels, from one of a kind antiques to a curated art collection. Currently listed for sale, ‘Bamboo Hill’ is a beautifully narrated design story whose chapters are continuing to unfold.
A beautifully narrated design story.
Ahead, I’m sharing the stunning” befores” of the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach, and here you can see the”afters.”
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
Nearly every room opens to the outdoors overlooking the lush landscape.
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
A Balinese style daybed with Indian textiles is tucked into a quiet corner.
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
The expansive loggia has defined seating areas providing the perfect space for entertaining.
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
The living room is an eclectic mix of objets d’art from the couples world travels. The sculpture on the console and to the left are by Dominque Pollas.
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
The kitchen features Austrian plank flooring, Belgian soapstone counters and a 19th-century refractory table.
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
A tobacco-colored glaze warms the Master bedroom adding romantic overtones and providing a striking backdrop for the collection of European antiques.
Designer/Lars Bolander-Photographer/ Thomas Loof
The outdoor spaces are a delightful mix of exoticism paired with modern charm.
Photos with permission of Thomas Loof
