GRAY No. 1

designreal. local.

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design to

Architecture in the spotlight: Marianne AmodioPb ElementalRex HohlbeinMiller HullGeorge Suyama Ben Waechter

Bold wallpaper by a Vancouver, B.C., duo

Portland fashion designer Kate Towers’ moody, romantic collection

Sexy steampunkfurnishings inspired by Product Runway

made HereMAGAZINE: pacific northwest design

™

Light your fire

220 2nd Avenue Sou th , Sea t t l e | 206 .622 .5606

10708 Ma i n S t r ee t , Be l l e vue | 425 .450 .9999

www.mas i ns. com

There will be an empty chair in Pioneer Square.

We will be leaving our original home soon, the neighbor-

hood we grew up in. For the time being, we will be moving

into our second home, in Bellevue. We are very proud of

our many decades of involvement in the Pioneer Square

community and are encouraged by the many new local

businesses and residents that are helping to keep the

area a vital and successful neighborhood.

In order to thank you for the years of patronage (and

to make the move easier for us!), we invite you to par-

ticipate in the biggest sale we have ever had ...with

price reductions of up to 70%! This moving

sale will take place in both stores starting in December.

Our talented designers will be available, as usual, to help

you with your plans for your home. Come visit us early

for the best selection.

4 GRAY issUe no. one

contentsDepartments

6 Hello Introducing GRAY.

11 News Warm your winter schedule with these local events.

13 Raves GRAY’s picks for the hottest products in the market.

16 Décor J. Franklyn Design Group creates a modern winter wonderland in Medina.

22 Interiors A blank canvas is a design dream for Vancouver’s Inoui Design Collective.

Features

74 Architecture Impressive commercial projects in Olympia, Vancouver, and Eugene.

76 Resources Design resources from the issue.

77 Library peter miller lists his must-reads for the new year.

79 Icon The Eames Lounge Chair still tops the design charts 55 years later.

✤On the Cover

Interior designer Jamie Dooley decks a home out for

the holidays.

SEE PAGE

sixteenWritten by

RAchel GAllAheR

Photographed by Alex hAYden

Visit graymag.net to subscribe.

80 Zodiac A design horoscope for optimistic Sagittarius and ambitious Capricorn.

50 Feminine Sophisticate Robert Bailey gives a dark apartment in Vancouver a fresh dose of white.

58 The New Glamorous Portland’s maison Inc., packs a home with pattern, texture, and personality for a luxurious makeover.

29 Shopping Treasures await at Blackbird and Haystack antiques.

32 Fashion kate towers’ romantic collection of hand-dyed pieces is a stunner.

39 Inspired Product Runway’s winning look is the spark for a steampunk roundup.

40 Color Love it or hate it, gray is the undeniable hue of the Pacific Northwest.

42 Interview Architect Rex Hohlbein focuses in on a faceless issue.

46 Entertaining Help your overnight guests feel as welcome as possible.

66 Who Architectural luminary George suyama releases his first solo monograph.

68 Made Here ROLLOut shows us what happens if walls could talk.

72 Concept pb elemental helps a modern beach house development go prefab in White Rock.

73 Tech The best of two-wheeled innovation.

December. 11 January. 12

6 GRAY issUe no. one GRAY issUe no. one 7

hel

lo

At last,presenting

Even as I write these words, I still can’t quite believe it. The inaugural issue of GRAY is here!

We’ve spent the past eight months admiring gorgeous projects, scouting local boutiques and showrooms, and speaking with some amazingly talented people. To say we’ve had an embarrassment of riches would be an understatement. Now we finally get to share it all with you—our fellow design-lovers.

The first prototype of GRAY looked vastly different from the final product you have in your hands or are reading online. We considered a few different names (Design Goggles, Slant, and Peak were all part of the conversation) and played with various departments and layouts, but our focus on real, local design hasn’t wavered in the slightest.

GRAY is made up of a team of Pacific Northwesterners, and we’re looking forward to showcasing the great design that our home has to offer in this issue and many more to come.

I’ll wrap it up so you can dive into the following pages, but I would be remiss to go without mentioning our contributors, friends, family, supporters, subscribers, and advertisers. Thank you for your generosity, kindness, and encouragement. Without you, this would not have been possible.

Angela

email: [email protected]: graymag.net/subscribe

xoxo,

con

trib

uto

rs

Photographer hAnk dRewhankdrew.com

In this issue: shopping (pg 30) and entertaining (pg 46)

Photographer JOSh dUnFORdjoshdunford.com

In this issue: Feature (pg 50)

Photographer Alex hAYdenalexhayden.com

In this issue: Cover, Décor (pg 16), Interview (pg 42), and Who (pg 66)

Photographer dAvid pApAziAnpapazianphoto.com

In this issue: shopping (pg 29) and Feature (pg 58)

Writer hillARY RiellYIn this issue: Fashion (pg 32)

Photographer Jen Steelejensteele.com

In this issue: Interiors (pg 22)

Writer RAchel GAllAheRIn this issue: Décor (pg 16), Interiors (pg 22), Feature (pg 50), made Here (pg 68), and architecture (pg 74)

Editor at Large lindSeY M. RObeRtSlindseymroberts.com

In this issue: Color (pg 40), Who (pg 66), Library (pg 77), and Icon (pg 79)

Photographer peteR vAn beeveRpetervanbeever.com

In this issue: Fashion (pg 32)

8 GRAY issUe no. one GRAY issUe no. one 9

Creative DirectorShAwn williAMS

EditorAnGelA cAbOtAJe

Style DirectorStAcY kendAll

Editor at LargelindSeY M. RObeRtS

ContributorshAnk dRewJOSh dUnFORdRAchel GAllAheRAlex hAYdendAvid pApAziAnhillARY RiellYSAllY SchOOlMASteRJen SteelepeteR vAn beeveR

AdvertisingkiM SchMidt ([email protected]) inFO ([email protected])

[email protected]

Special thank-yous to: bRiAn williAMS, JOe cAbOtAJe, dAvid kendAll, SUzie & bARneY OSteRlOh, RAndY AltiG, bROOke bURRiS, JOhn deFOReSt, FRed GOOd, JOhn GRAnen, Alex hAYden, Rex hOhlbein, bOb McclAne, GAil McclAne, Mike McclAne, Jill MOGen, nOlOGY MediA, dAvid pApAziAn, peteR QUiSt, ShiRleY SAx, ellen ShAnnOn, JenniFeR StephenS, GiSelle SMith, vicki SMith, MARnie tYSOn, dAle williAMS, SUSAn williAMS.

Vol. I, no. 1. Copyright ©2011. Published bimonthly (DeC, FeB, APr, JuNe, AuG, OCt) by GrAY Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpts granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, GrAY cannot guarantee the legality, completeness, or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such. GrAY is not responsible for loss, damage or other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, photography, art or any other unsolicited material. unsolicited material will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed stamped enve-lope. If submitting material, do not send originals unless specifi cally requested to do so by GrAY in writing. POStMASter: Send address changes to GrAY magazine, 13619 Mukilteo Speedway D5 #551, Lynnwood, WA 98087. Subscriptions $30 uS for one-year; $50 uS for two-years. Subscribe online at graymag.net. a refl ecti on of the

paCIFIC nORtHWest’s

vibrant design scene.

subscriptions available at: graymag.net

MAGAZINE: pacific northwest design

™

MAGAZINE: pAciFic nORthweSt deSiGn

™

graymag.net facebook.com/graymag twitter.com/gray_magazine

10 GRAY issUe no. one GRAY issUe no. one 11

We would call it the living room but that name was already taken.

A kitchen is a special space. It’s the heart of any home and the place we will do most of our living. Everything from mended knees and late night pep talks, to laughter-fi lled evenings with friends and early morning send-offs. You may live in a home, but life takes place in the kitchen.

We would call it the living room but that name was already taken.

A kitchen is a special space. It’s the heart of any home and the place we will do most of our living. Everything from mended knees and late night pep talks, to laughter-fi lled evenings with friends and early morning send-offs. You may live in a home, but life takes place in the kitchen.

We would call it the living room but that name was already taken.

A kitchen is a special space. It’s the heart of any home and the place we will do most of our living. Everything from mended knees and late night pep talks, to laughter-fi lled evenings with friends and early morning send-offs. You may live in a home, but life takes place in the kitchen.

We would call it the living room but that name was already taken.

A kitchen is a special space. It’s the heart of any home and the place we will do most of our living. Everything from mended knees and late night pep talks, to laughter-fi lled evenings with friends and early morning send-offs. You may live in a home, but life takes place in the kitchen.

A kitchen is a special space. It’s the heart of any home and the place we will do most of our living. Everything from mended knees and late night pep talks, to laughter-filled evenings with friends and early morning send-offs. You may live in a home, but life takes place in the kitchen. Eileen Schoener Design, Inc. will “Simplify Your Life” by bringing you the newest in quality products, the latest in designs, and a friendly staff that is here to guide you towards the right choices for your home or business. Give us a call, we are always happy to answer your questions.

SEATTLEHOMESMAG.COM MAY & JUNE 2011 79

EILEEN SCHOENER DESIGN, INC.1449 130TH AVE NE, BELLEVUE, WA 98005Phone: 1.866.450.9055 or 425.450.9055 Email: [email protected] www.esddesign.com

Because Life Takes Place in the Kitchen.™

dewils.com

ESD

See the fabulous features of DeWils Cabinets at our Showroom, or go to www.esddesign.com

for more information.

ADS.indd 21 3/21/11 5:28:17 PM

Eileen Schoener Design, Inc.12515 Bel-Red Road, #101Bellevue, WA 98005425-450-9055 | 866-450-9055www.esddesign.com

ESD dj1112.indd 1 11/16/11 10:09:11 AM

december 8–11, 2011Never again ask the question, “Does she have this already?” as you make your holiday shopping rounds this year. Browse unique apparel, furniture, jewelry, and crafts from more than 300 designers and artisans all in one place at One of a Kind Show and Sale Vancouver.

The New Vancouver Convention Centre, Vancouver, B.C., oneofakindvancouver.com

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s

George nelsonThrough febrUary 12, 2012

If you had any doubt that the Nelson Bubble Lamp or Marshmallow Sofa were true works of art, then fi nd some reassurance at Bellevue Arts Museum’s “George Nelson” exhibit, which has 220 objects—from iconic pieces to architectural models—on display from the legendary Herman Miller designer.

Bellevue Arts Museum, bellevuearts.org

Handmade nW Formal Holiday artisans Fair 2011december 18, 2011

Three cheers for handmade crafts: hip, hip, hooray! You know that shopping local and handmade is just downright awesome. More than 60 artisans are offering up their fi ne crafts, wares, and more—just in time for the holidays.

The Acadian Ballroom, Portland, handmadenw.com

northwest Flower & Garden showfebrUary 8–12, 2012

The weather outside may still be frightful, but spring will be here before you know it. Get an early jump on the season with fi ve days of fl oral arrangements, display gardens, and outdoor-living wares at the 23rd annual Northwest Flower & Garden Show.

Washington State Convention & Trade Center, Seattle, gardenshow.com

1611 nw northrup portland 503.295.0151 maisoninc.com

m a i s o n i n cINTER IOR DESIGN

Hot Winter Happenings

One of a Kind Show and Sale Vancouver

End and start your year right with can’t-miss design events

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f l e u r i s h206.322.1602 fleurish.com

fleurish.indd 1 11/28/11 11:53:11 AM

Fill your list with new pieces to deck your halls with or gift to others. Good luck fi nding a stocking that fi ts.

Written by StAcY kendAll

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hot list

Win friends and infl uence people with your ability to conjure up facts about moon cycles, seasonal harvests, and animal migration at a moment’s notice with Free Time Industries’ 2012 Naturalist Almanac. Knowledge is power, kids. $43 at Free Time Industries, Seattle, freetimeindustries.com.

14 GRAY issUe no. one

Hot ShotElegant soapstone keeps adult beverages staying and looking cool in Teroforma’s new Ekke shot glasses. The nonporous stone retains temperature for long periods of time, but our guess is that the glasses won’t stay empty for long. $38 for a set of four at Tilde, Portland, tildeshop.com.

sexy curves, swivel action, flat-pack capability—this candlestick does it all. and if the words “sexy” and “candlestick” can appear in the same sentence, then we say Design House Stockholm has another design hit on its hands. nordic Light candleholder by Jonas Grundell for Design House stockholm, $72 at Design House, Vancouver, B.C., designhouse.ca.

Chair ApparentUpholstered in recycled German army blanket and constructed from handsome walnut and sleek aluminum, the 1.2 Chair by Urbancase is first in line for a sophisticated side or dining chair. $750 in Seattle at Velocity Art and Design, velocityartanddesign .com; in Portland at EWF Modern, ewfmodern.com.

“we were interested in designing a prodUct that is in cOntRASt tO OUR electROnic enviROnMent. a way to relax at the end of the day or socialize with friends that doesn’t inclUde a television, compUter, or personal electronic device.’’ —darin montgomery, Urbancase

All Tied Up<You don’t have to be a sailor to love these knots. Handmade in Japan by artist Shigeki Fujishiro, the eye-catching KNOT basket is versatile and just cool. Period. $275-$350 at Alder & Co., Portland, alderandcoshop.com.

Army StrongThe Military Bench, designed by Kirk Albert, is

one hunk of beautiful metal. Crafted in Seattle’s Georgetown neighborhood with American-made

steel and covered with a vintage Army blanket, this limited-edition piece saves the design day. $1,800 as

shown at Kirk Albert, Seattle, kirkalbert.com.

Let There Be GoldDeceptively simple, yet utterly mesmerizing, the Hanging Light in 24-karat gold by Lukas Peet may have been good enough for king midas, but we think it’s beyond great for 21st-century kings and commoners alike. price available upon request at Lukas peet, Vancouver, B.C., lukaspeet.com.

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Burn, Baby

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Written by RAchel GAllAheR : Photographed by Alex hAYden

Chic silver and icy white bring a dose of sophistication to this season’s holiday décor

WonderlandWINTER

statswho: J. FRAnklYn deSiGn GROUpwhat: Interior design

details: principal Jamie Dooley has been working in the design industry since 1982. He specializes in creating custom spaces that fi t each client’s lifestyle. the J. Franklyn Design Group showroom is located in Ravenna and carries various home décor items.

silver and white holiday decorations complement the existing décor in kristen’s living room. Bella chairs from Twentieth in Los angeles were upholstered in silver fabric from . opposite: turquoise sequins add a glamorous touch to the traditional stocking line.

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olidays are ripe with traditions. for medina resident Kristen Newell , that means preparing for an annual Christmas dinnerget-together she has with a group of college friends. As the repeat hostess last December, Newell was looking to dazzle with her décor, so she enlisted longtime friend and interior designer Jamie Dooley of J. Franklyn Design Group.

a flashy forest of silver and white trees stand sentry in the living room. even with the fresh décor, kristen embraces tradition with her grandmother’s handmade tin Christmas ornaments from the 1940s. opposite: In the dining room, kristen decorates her holiday table with an array of candlesticks and holders found at The Standard, Z Gallerie, Pottery Barn, and antique stores. Bocci pendants add light from above.

H

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kristen collects nutcrackers and, on a whim, painted several of them white with touches of gold. Dooley added a few gold accents himself for color variation. On the dining table, crystal and glass accents give the impression of frosty ice and reflect candlelight. simple place settings and crisp, white napkins allow the table décor to take center stage. starburst napkin holders add a vintage touch.

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“It was a little more difficult than in the past, because we were trying to outdo ourselves,” Dooley explains. At Kristen’s request, they started with a specific color in mind. The rest of the design flowed from there.

“I wanted everything as white as possible,” Kristen says of the décor. Her home already had the perfect base with mostly white walls and furniture in the living and dining rooms. To offset the blast of white, Dooley opted for silver to add a subtle glamour element to tie the two rooms together. Punches of turquoise made sure that the tone-on-tone look didn’t lose its edge. The hue plays off the living room’s blue wall, which was re-imagined as a canvas for a flurry of snowflakes.

Dooley cut birch branches from trees in his yard and wrapped them in twinkle lights to create a magical winter for-est in the dining room. Kristen’s guests were able to pull up ornate Brocade Home chairs to an elegant snow-themed tabl-escape designed by the hostess herself.

“Jamie just has this eye for composition,” Kristen says. “He can just walk into a room and every single thing he touches becomes brilliant.”

GRaY asks the question that no one dares to utter:

Is santa out when it comes to holiday décor?

Interior designer Jamie Dooley declares, “santa can never be

out. He might be all white with a little bit of silver, but he’ll

never be out.” phew! Guess that means we won’t be seeing

a lump of coal in our stockings this year.

22 GRAY issUe no. one

statswho: inOUi deSiGn cOllectivewhat: Interior design

details: a full-service interior design firm specializing in creating personalized and sustainable spaces that reflect its clients’ personality and style. principal designers kyla Bidgood and amber kingsnorth are both active professional members of the Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia and Interior Designers of Canada. see their work at inouidesign.ca.

Written by RAchel GAllAheR : Photographed by Jen Steele

the women of Inoui Design Collective embody a bold,

modern design philosophy at their Victoria, B.C., office

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Others might have cringed at the amount of work that would be needed, but Kingsnorth and Bidgood saw it as a chance to do exactly what they wanted—design. The two, who met while studying at Vancouver Island University, came together in 2009 to form Inoui Design Collective, a firm as hip and vivacious as the young women behind it.

“We had a blank canvas, which was great for us,” Bidgood says. “We really wanted to showcase what we do best and our style, so we decided to keep the space pretty clean and modern.”

The office, located in Victoria, B.C., was initially one story

with an unfinished basement in a neighboring space. See-ing great possibility, the ladies decided to renovate the lower level, creating a bathroom and two work stations that they now rent out. They put their 400-square-foot studio on the ground floor. Dark brushed-oak flooring and white paint-ed-brick walls create visual contrast and provide a clean background for added details such as wall art, shelving, and colorful seating.

It was important for the designers that their studio be functional as well as attractive. They wanted the space to reflect their design aesthetic but allow them room to grow

hen interior designers Amber Kingsnorth and Kyla Bidgood first saw their future studio, it was a mess.

Lumber was scattered about, and a nine-foot drop into the basement was the first thing to greet anyone who walked through the front door.

amber kingsnorth and kyla Bidgood in their Victoria, B.C., studio. opposite: kingsnorth works at a table made from a reclaimed beam found at port alice cannery. structural light fixtures purchased from FullHouSe in Vancouver add texture to the space against a backdrop of the floor-to-ceiling sample wall.

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Congratulations to Inoui for winning a Silver

IDI Award of Excellence for the design of this studio.

26 GRAY issUe no. one GRAY issUe no. one 27

and change as their tastes evolve. According to Bidgood, the sample library can get a bit unruly at times, so an entire wall of floor-to-ceiling adjustable shelving at one end of the studio was essential.

Three large windows provide a lot of natural light, and side-by-side workspaces facing them allow the women to easily share ideas and work together on projects through-out the day. The rolling desk chairs were purchased from a friend (who found them on Craigslist) and recovered in bold Marimekko fabric, and the office mascot—Bidgood’s shih tzu Tucker—has a matching bed in the same print.

Behind the workspaces, a reclaimed slab of wood from Port Alice cannery makes a large table where the pair meets with clients. Bright-red chairs catch the color of the Marimekko print, and industrial-inspired light fixtures bring texture to the space. Small details such as vintage rulers along the risers of the office stairs and homemade folded magazine wall art demonstrate the women’s creativity and their design philosophy: “The fun challenge of our work is looking at what people already have and looking at how to use it in a creative way,” Kingsnorth explains. “Things don’t have to be super expensive to be really great looking and have great design.”

the reclaimed-beam table brings natural warmth to the mostly white studio, and bright-red eames-inspired chairs provide a cheery pop of color.

CloCkwise from above: Framed vintage covers of plan books from a local door company liven the downstairs bathroom with color; a wall calendar created by Victoria-based graphic designer and photographer Peter Bagi, who shot the numbers from various sites and addresses in Victoria; tucker, office mascot, sits at the top of the stairs, which are detailed with vintage rulers; Bidgood and kingsnorth created their own magazine art to bring dimension to the painted brick walls.

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It’s hard to miss the imposing black façade of the aptly named Black Box Building on Portland’s West Burnside Street. For men’s boutique Blackbird, it’s their new home since the Seattle-based store opened the location in Oregon earlier this year.

The modern, industrial-style space, situated between Tanner Goods and Dunderdon, is just 660 square feet, but a whole lot of style is packed into the relatively small area. The ceilings soar, and the high-gloss white walls turn spare into chic. Look up, though, and you’ll see Blackbird’s penchant for the dark and dramatic. Store partner Brian Paquett smeared ink from the pages of The Portland Mercury six feet high on the walls to achieve a Cy Twombly-esque effect. “Portland is all over our walls, literally,” Paquett quips.

Clearly, black is where it’s at.

Written by StAcY kendAll : Photographed by dAvid pApAziAn

Blackbird

Coming soon: interiors by blackbird. the team is designing an exclUsive line of fUrnitUre and accessories that complement their clothing aesthetic. in material terms, that means leather, dark wood, and steel. sexy.

-Graham Greene

The world is notblack and white.

It’s black andGRAY.

Congratulations, GRAY Magazine, on your launch.We look forward to some amazing conversations.

nologymedia.com GRAY issUe no. one 29

30 GRAY issUe no. one

seven seconds of your life in a book.flip•tog•ra•phy: dance, get funky, sign, or kiss your date in front of our camera for seven seconds. in two minutes, have a flipbook of your performance in-hand.

fliptography is a great way to make an event or venue fun: our live flipbook booth turns a moment into a pocket-sized take-home book of awesome. you can even add a message or graphics on a custom cover. we can also convert your existing videos into flipbooks.

let us make you the coolest kid in school: call 877-4-FLIPTO today.

TM

503.935.5340206.494.5358twitter: @gofliptofacebook.com/[email protected]

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Yes, Virginia, this is Bellevue. Adding to an impressive crop of design stores that have opened

in the 425, Haystack Antiques is the new kid on the block. This, however, is not your typical antique mall.

Yes, there are vendors, and, yes, there are hidden treasures, but owner Debbie Nordstrom (pictured, left) opened the shop in May 2011 with a specific goal in mind—to house just the treasures.

“If you like the hunt, this is not your place,” Nordstrom says. “If you’re looking for the ‘perfect’ thing, then I think we have it.”

The dealers here have distilled their wares to a stunning tableau of furniture, accessories, and jewelry, making it easy to find a treasure for everyone.

Written by StAcY kendAll : Photographed by hAnk dRew

Haystack Antiques

✴For the holidays, haystack is offering complimentary gift-wrapping services. it’s an easy sell for those who wish to avoid the crowds and find a one-of-a-kind item for all the folks on their list.

Full Service Interior Design with access to the Seattle Design Center

and “trade only” resources, workrooms, artisans, and craftspeople.

Design Coaching focusing on retail sources for the budget conscious

client who wants to be involved in the design process, but would

benefit from the guidance and knowledge of a professional designer.

Contemporary Staging for homeowners, realtors, and developers,

showcasing your property at its very best.

INTERIOR DESIGN + STAGING SERVICESfull service interior design / design coaching / contemporary staging

D E S I G N S T A G Ed e s i g n c o n s u l t a t i o n / i n t e r i o r s t a g i n g

t 20 6 . 82 9.9 0 49 e in fo @d es ign - s t age .co m w d es ign - s t age .co m

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fash

ion

statswho: kAte tOweRSwhat: Fashion designer

details: Old world meets modern times in the romantic, textural pieces from Portland-based designer (and mother of two) Kate Towers. She uses hand-dyed fabrics and nature-inspired designs to create one-of-a-kind garments that work in any setting. To see more of Towers’ work, visit katetowers.com and her Etsy shop, katetowers.etsy.com.

Moodythe many layers of portland-based

fashion designer Kate Towers

Romantic&

Written by hillARY RiellY : Photographed by peteR vAn beeveR

paper tiger dress from the Golden Hour collection.

GRAY issUe no. one 35

er dresses are a push and pull of form and

material that create layers of textures and

definitive lines that are modern and elegant.

Towers’ fashions marry opposites with such

ease that the mix of materials, combination

of structured forms and soft draping, and the

mélange of new and old styles does not feel out of place.

The foundation of all her designs, Towers explains, is hav-

ing something clean and simple with little areas of chaos. “I

really love to make pieces that are glamorous and expensive

looking but have a very relaxed feel to them—ultimately fus-

ing luxury and comfort,” she says.

After studying illustration at the New England School of

Art and Design in Boston, Towers moved to Portland on a

whim in 2000. She worked various jobs before opening a

women’s specialty boutique focusing on local, handmade

clothing. It helped launch her interest in combining art with

apparel. In 2008, she shut its doors to focus exclusively on

her fashion line and raise her two children. Now she works

out of her home studio, creating one-of-a-kind pieces for

clients and selling select items on Etsy.

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kate towers juxtaposes layers of ruffles with structured, hand-dyed fabrics to create ethereal pieces with a modern edge.

GRAY issUe no. one 37

“I am a very visual and hands-on person, so a lot of pieces

start with one idea and really merge into something new as

I build and execute,” Towers explains.

She dyes wools, silks, and cottons by hand and uses

them to create layered ombre effects and play with colors.

Volumes of ruffl es add interest and texture. The subtle yet

powerful details and complex blend of materials create

garments that are feminine in spirit, modern in form, and

unmistakably Kate Towers.

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Orange Crush capelet from the Oregon Coast collection

36 GRAY issUe no. one

FASHION GROUP INTERNATIONAL Established in 1930, The Fashion Group International mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design, and to help its members be more effective in their careers. The Fashion Group International is a global, professional non-profit organization of over 5,000 executives, with 35 chapters in nine countries around the world. Its members represent all areas of fashion, beauty, and related industries.

“… Facilitating the exchange oF

ideas and resources within

the Fashion industry and

providing valuable

networking

opportunities.”

S FFGGeattleeattleeattleSeattleS

ashionFashionFFashionFroup Intenational

FASHION GROUP INTERNATIONAL - SEATTLEFashion Group International – Seattle, a regional chapter of Fashion Group International, has provided a high profile forum to promote the fashion industry in Seattle for more than 25 years. We host events that educate and inform our members; provide valuable networking opportunities; and the exchange of ideas and common resources within the fashion industry. Our members have access to industry professionals locally and globally. Our membership cuts across job functions from individual contributors to senior executives, and across organizations from universities, publications, small businesses, to major corporations.

We give back to the community through annual donations to Dress For Success and scholarships for UW Fashion Certificate Program.

http://seattle.fgi.org [email protected].

Connect with us online or attend an FGI Seattle Event!

GPhoto: Jan Klier - Model: Jared Putnam @ SMG - Designer Banchong Douangphrachanh

SFG6.indd 1 11/24/11 12:27 AM

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a retro-futuristic dress created by the Bassetti architects,

Haworth, Carnegie Fabrics, and numark team—out of all interior

design materials no less—took home the top honors at Interior

Design Coalition of Washington’s product Runway event on

June 3, 2011. the inspiration, team lead Dante Wilkins explains,

was to interpret the past’s depictions of the future.

talk about a time warp!

Written by AnGelA cAbOtAJe : Portrait by eRnie SApiRO phOtOGRAphYModeled by eMilY deweeS : Hair by vU from ObAdiAh SAlOn

Retro fi nds are saved from the land of kitsch when they are reimagined with an unexpected twist. When it comes to

steampunk style, the more fantastical the better.

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A FLORAL SYMPHONY 25 GARDENS INSPIRED BY MUSIC AND THE SOUNDS OF NATURE.

EXPERT SEMINARS & DEMOS THE LATEST TRENDS SHOPPING LIVE MUSIC

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GARDENSHOW.COMWASHINGTON STATE CONVENTION CENTER

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1. Supernova Light, $6,400 at Esque, Portland, esque.bigcartel.com. 2. Freud French presses, $95–$125 (CAD) at Walrus, Vancouver, B.C., walrushome.com; 3. Aviator lounge chair, price available upon request at Catta Works, Nelson, B.C., cattaworks.com; 4. SENET Dodecahedron stool, $840 (CAD) at The Cross Décor & Design, Vancouver, B.C., thecrossdesign.com.

Bassetti’s emily Dewees poses backstage in the winning look.

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to achieve the perfect shade of gray, interior designer terry Hunziker advises starting with a generic gray paint and then adding drops of color Until the “right” hUe is achieved.

The Pacific Northwest gets a bad rap for being a gray place—from the color of the sky to the color of clothes donned by its denizens. The last color you’d want to decorate your home with is gray, right? Not so fast.

Legendary Northwest designer Jean Jongeward discovered that one of the best interior paint colors for this region was gray because of the way the hue reflects and complements the constantly changing light.

Forty years later, we see that Jongeward was ahead of her time. The stone-colored paint works well with all variations of light and is the perfect neutral complement to all colors, styles, and materials.

We pay homage to Jongeward’s visionary mindset with our own collection of gray pieces for the modern Northwest home.

gray spaces for gray places

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“Gray looks good with any color: orange, teal, hot pink, light pink, lavender, white, chartreuse green,” interior designer Graciela Rutkowski says. “Gray is the foundation that makes all those colors shine.”

Gray is the perfect partner to all

Northwest lighting. “Our soft light can

unexpectedly change very dramatically,”

Seattle-based interior designer Steven Hensel

explains. “It can appear cool and subdued,

and then a vivid sunset can change it to a warm peachy tone.”

1. Atwood Sofa, $2,150 (CAD) at STYLEGARAGE, Vancouver, B.C., stylegarage.com; 2. Conner leather chair, price available upon request at Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Portland, mgbwhome.com; 3. round velvet pintuck pillow, $34 at Urban Outfitters, urban outfitters.com; 4. Erto pendant, $495 at Hip, Portland, ubhip.com; 5. Cole & Son Ex Libris wallpaper by Fornasetti, price available upon request at Kravet/Lee Jofa, Seattle, kravet.com; 6. Moooi Fata Morgana TJ One carpet by Marcel Wanders, price available upon request at Inform Interiors, Seattle, informseattle .com; 7. ceramic vessel set in black slate by Sara Paloma, $1,500 at Relish, Portland, shoprelish.com.

(sometimes)Written by lindSeY M. RObeRtS

stereotypes be darned. Gray can be the brightest color of them all.

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Intellectual Gray, Sherwin-Williams, sherwin-williams.com

Silver Dollar, Benjamin Moore, benjaminmoore.com

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Written by AnGelA cAbOtAJe : Photographed and illustrated by Rex hOhlbein Portrait of Rex Hohlbein by Alex hAYden

Face to Face When award-winning architect Rex Hohlbein moved offices to Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood, he began noticing homeless individuals on a regular basis. Instead of walking by, he approached them and struck up a conversation. Over the years, he has traded life stories, built friendships, and photo- graphed hundreds of their faces to capture each special exchange. The point is straightforward: “You can make such a difference with a simple hello.”

Rex: this is Johan. He lives out of his van. I asked him how he was doing, and he said he was feeling down. He listens to a lot of music, and the words affect him—the messages can make him depressed. I said, “It sounds like you are a very sensitive person.” He said, “I cry every day.”

to find out how to help

seattle’s homeless, visit the

“Homeless in seattle” Facebook

page.

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Rex: this is mary. she was walking with a friend (also homeless) when we all got to talking. I asked them if I could take their picture, and he said no but she said yes. I suggested we walk down to the bench along the canal. as we walked, mary lagged behind, and when I looked back, she had taken out a little com-pact to put on makeup. It was such a sweet moment. rigHt: Gladys is Yupik eskimo, and Randy is full-blood native american: sioux of south Dakota and Choctaw of Oklahoma.

Rex: clOckwiSe FROM UppeR leFt: Michelle is homeless and won’t go to a shelter because something bad happened to her, and she starts crying the minute she thinks about it; Crystal is 24 and homeless, liv-ing in a tent for the past year; Chiaka Howze is a brilliant artist who lived homeless in Seattle for just over 10 years, and we became fast friends until a chance reconnection on Facebook led him back to Pittsburgh to be with his family; when I met Mickie, he was enjoying a bag of popcorn and sharing a beautiful smile.

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Having overnight guests—dare we say relatives—for an extended stay during the holidays? This isn’t a frightening proposition just because your in-laws are in town. It’s also because your house is going to be home to someone else for a period of time, and it’s up to you to make it happen.

Thumb your nose at houseguest phobia. Let this be the year that everyone stays with you because you’re just that fabulous.

Here are our tips for making your guests feel indulged, and more importantly, making you host of the year. No really, we shouldn’t have! Oh yes, we did.

Written by StAcY kendAll : Photographed by hAnk dRew

Guests

Olo fragrances, $40 each, knows perfume, seattle, knowsperfume.com. ❈ Savoy Ice Bucket-Cooler, $49.95 at Crate and Barrel, crateandbarrel.com. ❈ mahogany record cabinet, $150; midcentury light fixture, $135; glass ashtray, $10; 1930s kiestra mantle clock, $150; all from Gracious House to Home, seattle, gracioush2h.com. ❈ opposite: a pineapple has been the symbol of hospitality since colonial america.

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Provide an array of toiletries for your guests, especially for ones that came by plane. Nice products are a thoughtful touch, and as a guest it’s always fun to try something new. Also, include some common medications (out of reach of children) for middle-of-the-night emergencies.

1. eau drinking glass, $12 at Camelion, seattle, cameliondesign.com. toothbrushes For a Year, $14, and 2. Botot pate dentifrice $14, luCCA great finds, seattle, luccagreatfinds.com. 3. Baxter of California aftershave balm, $18 at Ward&Co., seattle, wardmensgrooming.com. 4. tokyomilk hand cream, excess, $24 at Curtsy Bella, seattle, curtsybella.com. 5. simpatico Bubble Bath no. 45, $26.50 at Capers, seattle, (206) 932-0371. 6. anthony Logistics facial scrub, $36 at Ward&Co., seattle, wardmensgrooming.com. 7. Further Candle, $28 at Burnt Sugar, seattle, burntsugarfrankie.com. 8. suavecito pomade, $10 at Squire, seattle, squire barbershop.com. 9. Boticario de Havana body wash, $29 at essenza, seattle, essenzaseattle .com. 10. Crown shaving Co. shave cream, $28 at Cameos and Crowns, seattle, (206) 462-1206. 11. sweet petula milk and honey moisturizing soap, $9 at Capers, seattle, (206) 932-0371.

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Yakima Camp Blanket in blue, $88-$124 at Pendleton, Portland, pendleton-usa.com.

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✗ Make sure there are plenty of books or magazines available for potential insomniacs. Extra points for keeping issues current.

✗ Keep an extra drawer for scissors, tape, a sewing kit, pens, and paper (go for stationery or a guest diary).

✗ Make sure there are some free electrical outlets for charging phones, laptops, and the like.

✗ For an added touch, develop a personal minibar for your guests with favorite candy, nuts, dried fruit, and other snacks. Options are best when tailored to your guest’s individual tastes.

✗ Put teabags, coffee, mugs, and all necessary accoutrements next to your kettle or coffee maker so early risers know just where everything is. If you have a complicated machine, add some personal instructions.

✗ Make sure refrigerator and pantry items aren’t past their due date to avoid unwitting illness by oblivious snackers.

✗ Keep some snacks out on the counter so that guests know these are always available for them between meals.

✗ If children are making the journey, stop by the dollar store for some inexpensive playthings to make the trip extra fun and exciting for the little ones.

Keep in mind that things don’t have to be perfect—your guests are there to see you! Clean towels and a glass of wine make a warm welcome anywhere.

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Feminine Sophisticate

Interior designer Robert Bailey gives his glamorous client a fresh and feminine apartment

Written by RAchel GAllAheR : Photographed by JOSh dUnFORd

ubiquitous white creates a fresh backdrop in the dining nook. art advisor susan almrud helped Bailey and Jacquie pick the moody photograph by Darren almond.

statswho: RObeRt bAileY inteRiORSwhat: Interior design

details: as a practicing design professional for the past 30 years, Robert Bailey has worked closely with his clients to create timeless interiors that reflect the inhabitants’ tastes and personality. Robert Bailey Interiors designs both public and private spaces.

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t was qUite literally oUt with the old and in with the new when fashionista and writer Jacquie Somerville moved into her current Vancouver, B.C., apartment in March 2010.

“I knew that I wanted white walls,” Jacquie says with a laugh. “There have been so many years where I have done

taupe and beige, and I was just done with that!” Luckily, interior designer Robert Bailey was on the same page.

Armed with a lot of white paint, he turned the apartment’s walls, doors, and trim into a bright, fresh backdrop. White-oak flooring throughout continues the trend, keeping the feel light while still adding warmth.

For Jacquie, the frequent party hostess, it was important that the living room and dining space be both functional and inviting. Floor-to-ceiling windows at one end of the living room overlook False Creek and provide a view of Granville Island. Bailey wanted to tie in the watery tones of the creek, so he chose a soft gray palette for the contemporary sofa, armchair, and ottoman—all from Minotti. A silver-gray rug is the perfect complement, while touches of deep pinks and purples give the room just the right amount of feminine flair.

The adjacent dining room received similar treatment from Bailey, who opted to keep colors neutral and styling contemporary. His

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the all-white dining area gives way to the living room’s gray palette. Bailey used False Creek—visible from the windows—as the inspiration for the color scheme.

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choices: white Philippe Starck dining chairs, a round Boboli table, and Moooi’s super-playful Dandelion pendant fixture.

The master bedroom is one of Jacquie’s favorite spaces, and it reflects the clean, clutter-free atmosphere she craves. A white leather Poltrona Frau bed anchors the room. Its hidden front feet give the structure a cantilevered appearance, as if it were floating. The delicate floral art by James Welling (who also painted the piece above the sofa in the living room) are a fitting colorful accessory. A pair of silver Josephine lamps from Metalarte and sumptuous chocolate brown bedding add a bit of elegant drama. No need to worry, though—a lighthearted throw advocates “LOVE PEACE HAPPINESS” to make sure the design doesn’t take itself too seriously.

With the help of Bailey, Jacquie got the fresh start she wanted and a stylish, modern apartment to boot.

“I always want my work to reflect my clients and their life-styles,” Bailey explains. “With Jacquie, things are very femi-nine. She wanted the apartment to reflect who she is, and she is very glamorous.”

opposite: In the master bedroom, a custom wool area rug by Jan kath, from Colin Campbell, warms bare toes on chilly days. above: Lapalma thin bar stools from Inform Interiors provide extra seating in the kitchen, allowing guests to chat with Jacquie as she prepares for parties and meals. left: Pigs Can Fly, a painting by Tiko Kerr, provides a burst of welcoming color in the entrance hall.

“A great room is like a great piece of clothing. When you find the perfect outfit, you just know.” —Robert Bailey

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the uncluttered guest room reflects Jacquie’s love for clean lines and fuss-free décor. two Nathaniel Massey photographs bring the gallant outdoors inside, while a youthful Bernstein & Gold throw adorns the bed.

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THE NEW Glamorouspattern, texture, and color pack a punch

in this personality-fi lled homeWritten by AnGelA cAbOtAJe : Photographed by dAvid pApAziAn

“Our favorite space is the living room by the fi replace, looking at the view,” says Joelle Nesen, principal and owner of portland’s Maison Inc. she and lead designer Lucy Roland offset the seriousness of the furnishings with a larger-than-life statue from the homeowners’ collection and a teak-root table.

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statswho: MAiSOn incwhat: Interior design

details: maison Inc., is a portland-based design fi rm with a retail showroom offering an eclectic mix of vintage and modern furnishings. the company designs commercial spaces as well as private homes. to see more projects from maison Inc., visit maisoninc.com.

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The house started out as a ’60s Topsider Homes structure that had seen little improvement in its de-cades of existence. Fake paneling and rust-colored carpeting had survived until 2009, when the home-owners approached interior designer Joelle Nesen, principal and owner of Portland’s Maison Inc., about a remodel. Paolo Design Group gave them a fresh layout with flowing spaces and plenty of room for entertaining and overnight visitors.

“We envisioned a chic, slightly ’70s throwback that was heavy on Old Hollywood,” Nesen says of the project’s vision. “We wanted a house that brought together the luxury and style of old films, ease and

functionality, and a little twist of fun.”Living areas are vibrant and energetic with an

overload of sights and textures, while bedrooms are more muted and low-key. Bathrooms happily enjoy both sides, speaking volumes in neutral Ann Sacks St. Petersburg chiseled limestone and making a statement with jade-green subway tile.

Nesen and lead designer Lucy Roland layered different patterns and materials in the kitchen and dining area. They used custom Ann Sacks Nottingham parallelo- gram tiles for the backsplash and metallic-colored slate on the floor. Quartz and stainless-steel counterstie in perfectly with the sleek, modern appliances and dark

this home along the Columbia River Gorge were a dish at a restaurant, the menu description would read: “A feast for the eyes.”if

the home’s original layout featured an octagon that housed many rooms. Paolo Design Group turned it into one big area for the kitchen and dining area. Windows on all sides offer views of the Columbia River Gorge and Crown point.

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the designers wanted to create a lifestyle within a room, giving each area its own unique personality. Bedrooms and other private spaces combine patterns, sumptuous materials, and vintage pieces for dynamic appeal.

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cabinets. A long quartz island visually separates the functional chef’s kitchen from the dining area without disturbing the open feel of the room, while a window seat draws attention to the views outside with Stark wallpaper in a thin chevron stripe and cushions in a graphic Clarence House fabric.

The designers made sure to consider different uses for the large space, from housing huge parties to having quiet meals for two. Up to 14 people can sit around the giant three-piece dining table, or the homeowners can pull it apart (as they frequently do) to use a section for an intimate dinner setting.

The living room is a balanced mix of whimsical pieces and glamorous furniture. Nesen and Roland reupholstered the homeowners’ vintage sectional in an olive cotton velvet from Kravet and designed custom chairs in a Pollack apricot mohair. “We wanted all the fabrics to look and feel luxurious,” Nesen explains.

They made sure to funk things up with a teak-root table and a tongue-in-cheek piece from the owners’ art collection: a larger- than-life statue of a discus thrower. Across the room, a chiseled

Ann Sacks limestone wall is a solid anchor for the sleek fireplace surround.

In the media room, the homeowners gave the designers a pile of inspiration pictures that evoked an edgy and sexy use of color. The result is a bold explosion of red, burnt burgundy, and orange with wall-to-wall Stark cheetah carpet. Infusing the space with tone-on-tone hues throughout helps soften corners and keeps the focus on the screen.

When it’s time to call it a day, guests can retire to one of the spare bedrooms. Upholstered headboards, unfussy bedding, and convenient seating and writing areas help visitors feel right at home. Whimsical touches and timeless pieces—a terrarium, airy sheers, and a sunburst clock—add an element of lighthearted-ness to loosen things up.

“I feel like, as a company, what we really bring to the table is the ability to mix it up while remaining timeless,” Nesen says.

The very happy homeowners of a luxuriously dazzling home would probably agree with that.

the all-white master bathroom (opposite) features a generous soaking tub and textured chiseled limestone, while another bath (above left) boasts tiles in bold hues and patterns. above rigHt: the homeowners love to shop for vintage pieces, so the designers worked many of their items into the home.

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“the northwest has been tUcked away doing its own thing for so long, bUt now throUgh the internet, media, and technology we’Re SeeinG MORe expO-SURe And AcceSSibilitY tO ReGiOnAl deSiGn,” sUyama says. “oUr reach definitely extends beyond oUr region.”

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The first solo monograph for Suyama explores and defines the interrelation-ship between inside and outside, which has come to define architecture in the Northwest as well as Suyama’s work since 1971.

George SUYAMAWritten by lindSeY M. RObeRtS : Portrait by Alex hAYden

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Like a fern curled and protected from battering rain, the houses designed by George Suyama, 69, of Seattle’s suyama peterson Deguchi architects are protected from the weather by eaves, walk-ways, and verandas. It’s inside the houses that the fern opens up and windows become frames for constantly changing murals. “I’m interested in art as nature, trees as walls,” he says.

In Suyama: A Complex Serenity (University of Washington Press, April 2011), Grant Hildebrand presents the architect’s buildings in an ordered evolution, from inspiration by Gene Zema’s Japanese-influenced style to development of his own language rooted in each project’s site.

“Since the urban environment is expanding … connecting to nature has become an intrinsic human need,” Suyama says. “I see architecture as a way to bring the fundamental truth of nature back into our daily lives.”

Suyama obtained a bachelor’s from the University of Washington in 1967 and began working for Zema. In the late 60s, he worked for Ralph Anderson. In 1971, he started his own firm. Ric Peterson and Jay Deguchi became partners in 1983 and 2002 respectively—and over the years he’s collaborated with additional architectural luminaries such as metal worker David Gulassa and interior designer Christian Grevstad.

Hildebrand notes that Suyama designs to eliminate “visual noise” and creates “visual music” instead. Wood ceilings conceal ducts, walls slide to reveal spaces, and views open toward sunlit gardens. One could argue that the beauty of Suyama’s houses is akin to the fern in another way—the plant seems effortless in its aesthetic and yet is complexly, precisely designed for its niche in the ecosystem.

Australian architect Glenn Murcutt says in the foreward that Suyama considers all aspects of climate, flora, location, and geography. In his search for serenity in structure, Suyama designs houses that complement the serenity of their location.

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CloCkwise from above: “the Beatles go to Bollywood on an acid trip,” said kam Dhillon of the custom wallpaper (also shown, far right) he wanted for his Calgary Indian restaurant mango shiva; Canadian boutique WORtH is a punk rock-baroque mix, and their custom x-ray skull cameo wallpaper is a perfect fit; Carbon by James Acrow features deep amethyst sketching; Beat & Repeat by Bandit is a quirky addition to any room.

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ome of the best things come out of the worst situations. Case in point: ROLLOUT Creative Inc., a custom designer and manufacturer of wallpaper. The company, founded in Vancouver, B.C., got its start in a frustratingly crummy job market and is now an independent purveyor of striking and innovative designs.

It was 2005, and Anita Modha and Jonathan Nodrick had both recently graduated with de-

grees in design—she with a master’s in industrial design and he in communication design. They soon realized that they faced an arduous job hunt plagued with limited openings and plenty of competition.

“Jon went on an interview and saw 11 other former class-mates waiting to be interviewed,” Modha recalls.

A serendipitous chain of events would soon turn things

around. Nodrick had been looking for someone to print his artwork on canvas and landed a large-format printer through Craigslist. He and Modha began experimenting with various papers and inks, seeing how different types of each worked together. When a friend mentioned creating custom wallpaper for her salon, they knew they had found their focus.

They held a formal art show in Vancouver, where 30 different designers displayed 25 wallpapers. “We had 1,000 people come to the show,” Modha recalls. “Most of the people who came were the perfect clients: architects and interior designers. It was really exciting, and we thought, ‘We could make a business out of this.’ ”

They began selling a selection of the popular artist-created wallpapers, several of which are still offered in their Artist Series Wallpapers collection along with other curated designs.

ROLLOUT’s wallpaper offerings are not your grandmother’s

Canadians Anita Modha and Jonathan Nodrick of ROLLOUT brilliantlyconjure up artist-designed wallpaper with extraordinary results

CloCkwIsE froM lEft: Le Corbusier by Petra Reimann is an optical illusion for walls and eyes; tasked with creating a custom wallpaper for Earls’ new Toronto restaurant, ROLLOUT used old Earls menu images to design a distressed and worn look with nostalgic appeal; Wayfinder by Mike & Maaike merges function into a decorative form; ROLLOUT’s Tailoring wallpaper features vintage sewing machines; find your way with the vintage-style Map of Paris.

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S frou-frou floral. Designs range from graphic geometric patterns to photographs and freehand drawings. Some designs are elegant—such as classic damask—while others are infused with punk rock’s skulls, bright colors, and graffiti. ROLLOUT also offers customizable options, and their in-house designers have created wallpapers for commercial spaces. They’ve worked with companies such as Starbucks, Marc Ecko, and Microsoft Zune.

As for the future, Modha says they’d like to expand beyond wallpaper, using their popular designs for items such as fabrics and dinnerware. They also opened a second location in Toronto in December 2010.

“In Toronto, people are really into bold things—really pushing the envelope,” Modha says. “And in the west, things were more muted and neutral. I think we are very lucky to be influenced by both. It’s been a great way for us to evolve as a company.”

Written by RAchel GAllAheR

HuBert KANG

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high techwho: brammo, based in ashland, oregon, specializes in developing and designing electric-powered vehicles.what: Enertia Plus

stats: The 2011 Enertia Plus electric motorcycle features Brammo’s lithium-ion battery technology, which fully charges in approximately eight hours. The battery life allows the rider to achieve speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and travel up to 80-mile distances. The motorcycle’s lightweight extruded and welded aluminum frame comes in True Blood Red, Peacekeeping Blue, and Eclipsed Black, while a seat featuring textured black vinyl and charcoal gray synthetic suede is durable and water resistant.

buy: $8,995 (preorder pricing). To purchase the Enertia Plus, visit brammo.com.

Written by AnGelA cAbOtAJe

Take the humble wheel, put two together, and you’re left with a centuries-old means of transportation.

But what is function without a beautiful form? And what is style without any modern advancement? A pair of two-wheeled wonders

show us how far they have come in both design and innovation.

low techwho: traitor cycles designs and manUfactUres its bicycles in ferndale, washington.what: Ruben

stats: Traitor’s Ruben is the bike for today’s urban commuter, who enjoys a little off-road dalliance on the side. Designed to excel on pavement as well as in the mud, the Ruben features a Columbus-steel frame with disc brakes, rack brazeons, and full fender capability for all-weather riding. Its 10-speed Apex kit and cable housing through the chainstay make this choice a functional stunner. Hope you don’t mind getting envious stares.

buy: $599 (frame with lugged disc fork) and $1,049 (SRAM Apex 10-speed disc). For a complete list of retailers, visit traitorcycles.com.

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low tech Vs.

high tech:t w o w h e e l s

Beach house? Yes. typical? nope. pb elemental, method Homes, and InHaus Development have teamed up to create two eco-friendly single-family homes in White Rock, B.C. they used a hybrid of on-site and prefab construction, allowing them to build some modules in a controlled indoor environment where resources and time could be maximized. materials were chosen for their longevity and sustainability, while solar panels, site orientation, and a space-maximizing reverse layout help these dwellings cut down on energy use and envi-ronmental impact. Of course, an ultramodern, übercool design sure doesn’t hurt.

Written by AnGelA cAbOtAJe

BeachHaus I (shown above) and II both feature three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and impeccable contemporary style. they take advantage of the scenic views and natural light in the beachside White Rock community. upon completion in late 2011, they can receive an official LeeD rating from the Canadian Green Building Council.

statswho: pb eleMentAlwhat: Architecture firm

details: seattle-based pb elemental has received recognition from the american Institute of architects and numerous publications around the world for their innovative, modern designs. see more of their work at pbelemental.com.

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Written by RAchel GAllAheR

Water-treatment plants are often housed in low concrete buildings with signs that clearly state “keep out.” The LOTT Clean Water Alliance Regional Services Center in Olympia, has a decidedly different message.

“Conceptually, we were trying to make this organization a front door to the community and create a facility that people want to interact with and learn from,” explains Scott Wolf, a partner at Miller Hull who was in charge of the project.

The LOTT facility is a national leader in producing Class-A reclaimed water, the highest level of reclaimed water for nonpotable uses, and is certified LEED Platinum. It has contemporary appeal with corrugated metal siding and expanses of large windows. A wooden boardwalk leads over a reclaimed water pond into the new four-story Regional Services Center, which houses offices and an edu-cation center with interpretive exhibits and a classroom.

All interior wood was salvaged from a warehouse on an adjacent lot, and the ceilings feature stretched white nylon that help bounce light back into the building, saving energy costs. Regional artist Pam Beyette created whimsical stained-glass windows for the education center and two building entrances that represent images found under a microscope at different points during the water- treatment process.

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Written by RAchel GAllAheR

architect Marianne Amodio of Vancouver, B.C., never took up tightrope walking or tiger taming, but she did get to join the circus.

the Vancouver Circus school hired amodio to help design its new location in the city’s River market. “I took a look at it and thought, ‘How can we make this special? How can we say circus?’”

she crafted a large big-top circus tent structure out of two- by-eights to house the office space. Yellow juggling balls fill the walls of the big top for color and whimsy, while a seating area and stage accented with yellow, space-saving cubbies and the popular double-slide kids-only entrance are attached to the side. an existing tree-montage art installation created the inspiration for the “stick forest,” an alternative to the required safety guardrail around the front of the escalator.

“I wanted to give them something that was exciting and that spoke of what they do,” amodio says. “When you think about circus, you instantly think about light and joy and happiness and wonder and awe.”

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Circus SchoolBuilt to a tea Written by RAchel GAllAheR

J-Tea is not your typical tea store. The shop is located in a renovated home within a small commercial pocket of Eugene’s residential Friendly Street neighborhood.

Owner Josh Chamberlain hired architect Ben Waechter to help transform the house into a modern tea sanctuary.

Waechter and his team gutted the interior and painted the remaining shell dark brown to showcase the geometric cedar-beam porch and modern entry canopy made from powder-coated aluminum panels. “You don’t see how they are supported, so they look like they are floating,” Waechter notes.

The interior is minimal, with light maple flooring and floor-to-ceiling key shelving, which allows the teas and imported wares to add color and visual interest. A large tea bar anchors the eye to the center of the room; its striking black PaperStone counter provides a pleasant contrast to the warmth of surrounding wood. SA

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2011 Honor Award recipient, AIA

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76 GRAY issUe no. one GRAY issUe no. one 77

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peter miller—proprietor of peter miller architectUral & design books and sUpplies on Seattle’s First Avenue—has been educating the Northwest about design since 1980 with his library-for-sale of carefully chosen national and international tomes. The real treat, however, is the man himself. Catching him on a slow day is the best way to get up-to-date on the latest intellectual trends. Between discussions about politics, virtual books, and sustainability, we asked Peter Miller to supply a list of his must-reads this year. Time to hit the books!

Written by lindSeY M. RObeRtS

thinking architecture by peter zUmthor (Birkhäuser, 2010)

Peter Zumthor, the Swiss architect, is a fi ne hero—careful, specifi c, hesitant, precise, and brilliant—an antidote to excess and consumerism. There are few books on him, and this, a collec-tion of short essays, is the fi nest of them.

kissing architecture by sylvia lavin (Princeton University Press, 2011)

All-pink cover, silver end papers—a naughty art book in the most intellectual way, discussing architecture as a passion of intent and material.

all Over the map: Writing on Buildings and Cities by michael sorkin (Verso, 2011)

Sorkin is perhaps our best critic, smart and not smarmy. The book has essays about contemporary architec-ture and the city. In his case, New York City.

twenty Buildings every architect should understand by simon Unwin (Routledge, 2010)

A very unfrolicked book by Simon Unwin, a fi ne and brilliant architecture professor in the U.K. These are, in fact, the buildings you must understand.

sustainable Compact City by poUl-baek pedersen (The Danish Architectural Press, 2009)

The Danish society is far out front in terms of the city and humans—their progress is so remarkable. This book details some of the ways they analyze, improve, and ensure the brilliance of their urban design.

Reading List

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es Alder & Co. (pg 14)537 S.W. 12th Ave.Portland, OR 97205(503) 224-1647alderandcoshop.com

Ann Sacks(pg 58, 60, 64)annsacks.com

BAKU Contemporary (pg 3)(253) 265-3921bakucontemporary.com

Bandit(pg 68)bandit.es

Bellevue Arts Museum (pg 11, 12)510 Bellevue Way N.E.Bellevue, WA 98004(425) 519-0770bellevuearts.org

Ben Waechter (pg 74)Portland, OR(503) 449-1471benwaechter.com

Benjamin Moore (pg 41)benjaminmoore.com

Bernstein & Gold(pg 57)100-1168 Hamilton St.Vancouver, B.C., V6B 2S2(604) 687-1535bernsteinandgoldinteriors.com

Blackbird (pg 29)1306 W. Burnside St.Portland, OR 97209(503) 227-1825blackbirdballard.com

Brammo, Inc. (pg 73)Ashland, OR(541) 482-9555brammo.com

Burnt Sugar (pg 48)601 N. 35th St. Seattle, WA 98103(888) 545-0699burntsugarfrankie.com

Camelion Design (pg 48)5330 Ballard Ave. N.W.Seattle, WA 98107(206) 783-7125cameliondesign.com

Cameos & Crowns(pg 48)1137 34th Ave.Seattle, WA 98122(206) 462-1206

Capers (pg 48)4525 California Ave. S.W.Seattle, WA 98116(206) 932-0371caperscapers.blogspot.com

Catta Works (pg 39)Nelson, B.C.(250) 352-7288cattaworks.com

Clarence House(pg 61)clarencehouse.com

Click! Design That Fits (pg 80)4540 California Ave. S.W.Seattle, WA 98116(206) 328-9252clickdesignthatfi ts.com

Colin Campbell(pg 54)494 Railway St.Vancouver, B.C., V6A 1B1(604) 734-2758 colcam.com

Couch (pg 80)1230 Western Ave.Seattle, WA 98101(206) 633-6108couchseattle.com

Crate and Barrel (pg 47)crateandbarrel.com

The Cross Décor & Design (pg 39)1198 Homer St.Vancouver, B.C., V6B 2X6(604) 689-2900thecrossdesign.com

Curtsy Bella (pg 48)2920 N.E. Blakeley St.Seattle, WA 98105(206) 523-3221curtsybella.com

Design House (pg 15)851 Homer St.Vancouver, B.C., V6B 2W2(604) 681-2800designhouse.ca

Design Stage (pg 31)Seattle, WA (206) 829-9049design-stage.com

Eileen Schoener Design (pg 10)Bellevue, WA(425) 450-9055esddesign.com

Environmental Construction, Inc. (inside back cover)Seattle, WA(425) 803-9881envconst.com

Esque Studio (pg 39)Portland, OResque-studio.com

Essenza (pg 48)615 N. 35th St.Seattle, WA 98103(206) 547-4895essenzaseattle.com

EWF Modern (pg 14)1122 N.W. Gilsan St.Portland, OR 97209(503) 295-7336ewfmodern.com

The Fashion Group International of Seattle (pg 37)Seattle, WAseattle.fgi.org

Fleurish (pg 12)Seattle, WA(206) 322-1602fl eurish.com

Fliptography(pg 31)(877) 435-4786fl iptography.net

Free Time Industries (pg 13)Seattle, WAfreetimeindustries.com

FULLHOUSE Modern(pg 24)1545 W. Fourth Ave.Vancouver, B.C., V6J 1L6(604) 733-7789fullhousemodern.com

Graciela Rutkowski Interiors(pg 40)Seattle, WA(206) 527-1962 grinteriordesign.com

Gracious House to Home (pg 47)2920 N.E. Blakeley St., Ste. CSeattle, WA 98105(206) 525-5300gracioush2h.com

Handmade NW (pg 11)Portland, ORhandmadenw.com

Haystack Antiques (pg 30)144 105th Ave. N.E.Bellevue, WA 98004(425) 455-1515haystackantiques.com

Hensel Design Studio(pg 40)Seattle, WA(206) 728-1657henseldesignstudios.com

Herman Miller (pg 79)hermanmiller.com

Hip (pg 41)1829 N.W. 25th Ave.Portland, OR 97210(503) 225-5017ubhip.com

Inform Interiors (pg 41, 79)2032 Eighth Ave.Seattle, WA 98121(206) 622-1608informseattle.com

Inform Interiors(pg 55, 80)50 Water St.Vancouver, B.C., V6B 1A4 (604) 682-3868informinteriors.com

InHaus Development Ltd. (pg 72)South Surrey, B.C.(604) 377-4978inhaus.ca

Inoui Design Collective (pg 22)Victoria, B.C.(250) 590-7378inouidesign.ca

J. Franklyn Design Group (pg 16)5512 35th Ave. N.E.Seattle, WA 98105(206) 526-0402

J-Tea(pg 74)2778 Friendly St.Eugene, OR 97405(541) 285-8997jteainternational.com

James Acrow (pg 69)acrow.ca

78 GRAY issUe no. one

eames loungechair

GRAY issUe no. one 79

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Furniture designers and architects Charles and Ray Eames debuted their new Eames Lounge Chair—a masterpiece of molded rosewood, black leather, and cast aluminum—on NBC.

Charles told the host that they didn’t design their chair to be trendy. “We’ve never designed for a fashion. Or with the idea of fitting in with fashion,” Charles said. Host Arlene Francis suggested, “You really create your own market, don’t you?”

The market that the husband-and-wife duo created for their lounger—continuously produced by Herman Miller since its launch—is of those that love a ubiquitous yet timeless design, those who love the idea of a BarcaLounger’s comfort in a stylish modern package, and those who covet the piece as a status symbol.

“People come in just to look at it, try it out, and tell stories about who they know, who had an original Eames piece, or who worked at Herman Miller,” explains Allison Mills, owner of Seattle furniture store Inform Interiors. In fact, the 55-year-old lounge chair is consis-tently one of the store’s best-selling pieces, beating out newer and edgier upstarts.

It’s hard to know if Charles and Ray imagined the success that their design would have generations later. The chair fits in just as well today—with our modern interiors decked out in steel, glass, and wood—as it did back in the ’50s.

Last summer, at the office-furniture trade show NeoCon in Chicago, Herman Miller debuted the Eames Lounge again. This time, the chair came with slight adjustments—a white-ash veneer and a white powder-coated base. The company proudly toted on its website, “Perfect for today’s lighter, airy interiors.”

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

Written by lindSeY M. RObeRtS

In 1956, a classic was born.

Kate Towers (pg 32)Portland, ORkatetowers.com

Kirk Albert (pg 14)5517 Airport Way S.Seattle, WA 98108(206) 762-3899kirkalbert.com

knows perfume (pg 47)4536 California Ave. S.W.Seattle, WA 98116 (206) 397-3141knowsperfume.com

Kravet/Lee Jofa (pg 41)5701 Sixth Ave. S., Ste. A126(206) 762-9370kravet.com

Lauren by Ralph Lauren(pg 80)laurenhome.com

Logan’s Hammer (inside front cover)Seattle, WA(206) 718-4008loganshammer.com

LOTT Clean Water Alliance(pg 74)Olympia, WA(360) 664-2333lottcleanwater.org

LUCCA great finds (pg 48)5332 Ballard Ave. N.W.Seattle, WA 98107(206) 782-7337luccagreatfinds.com

Lukas Peet (pg 14)Vancouver, B.C.lukaspeet.com

Maison Inc. (pg 10, 58)Portland, OR(503) 295-0151maisoninc.com

Marianne Amodio Architecture Studio (pg 75)Vancouver, B.C.(778) 991-0155maastudio.com

Masins Fine Furnishings & Interior Design (pg 2)10708 Main St.Bellevue, WA 98004(425) 450-9999masins.com

Method Homes, LLC (pg 72)Seattle, WA(206) 789-5553methodhomes.net

Mike & Maaike(pg 71)mikeandmaaike.com

The Miller Hull Partnership, LLP (pg 74)Seattle, WA(206) 682-6837millerhull.com

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams (pg 40)1106 W. Burnside St.Portland, OR 97209(503) 972-5000mgbwhome.com

Nology Media (pg 28)Seattle, WA (877) 665-6499nologymedia.com

Northwest Flower & Garden Show (pg 11, 38)(253) 756-2121gardenshow.com

One of a Kind Show and Sale Vancouver (pg 11)Vancouver, B.C.oneofakindvancouver.com

Paolo Design Group(pg 58)Portland, OR (503) 222-1757paolodesigngroup.com

Pb Elemental Architecture (pg 72)Seattle, WA(206) 632-7703pbelemental.com

Pendleton (pg 49)pendleton-usa.com

Peter Bagi (pg 27)Victoria, B.C.(250) 818-2931peterbagi.com

Peter Miller Architectural & Design Books and Supplies (pg 77)1930 First Ave.Seattle, WA 98101(206) 441-4114petermiller.com

Petra Reimann (pg 70)petraberlin.com

Pollack Fabrics(pg 58)pollackassociates.com

Pottery Barn (pg 18)potterybarn.com

Relish (pg 41)1715 N.W. Lovejoy St.Portland, OR 97209(503) 227-3779shoprelish.com

Rex Hohlbein Architects (pg 42)Seattle, WA(206) 632-7276rexhohlbeinarchitects.com

Robert Bailey Interiors (pg 50)Vancouver, B.C.(778) 330-5667robertbaileyinteriors.ca

ROLLOUT Creative Inc. (pg 68)Vancouver, B.C. and Toronto, ON(604) 681-3780 and (416) 960-0110rollout.ca

Sherwin-Williams (pg 41)sherwin-williams.com

SieMatic (back cover)2030 First Ave., Ste. 110Seattle, WA 98121(206) 443-8620siematic-seattle.com

Squire Barber Shop (pg 48)112 Stewart St.Seattle, WA 98101(206) 622-7871squirebarbershop.com

The Standard (pg 18)10697 Main St., Ste. 3Bellevue, WA 98004(425) 467-1164thestandardinbellevue.com

STYLEGARAGE (pg 40)124 W. Hastings St.Vancouver, B.C., V6B 1G8(604) 558-4343stylegarage.com Susan Almrud Art Advisory & Private Acquisitions(pg 50)Vancouver, B.C.susanalmrud.com

Suyama Peterson Deguchi (pg 66)Seattle, WA(206) 256-0809suyamapetersondeguchi.com

Terry Hunziker(pg 41)Seattle, WA (206) 467-1144

Tiko Kerr(pg 55)Vancouver, B.C.(604) 255-5528www.tikokerr.com

Tilde (pg 14)7919 S.E. 13th Ave.Portland, OR 97202(503) 234-9600tildeshop.com

Traitor Cycles (pg 73)Ferndale, WA(360) 366-5123traitorcycles.com

Urbancase (pg 14)(206) 853-6822urbancase.com

Urban Outfitters (pg 40)urbanoutfitters.com

The Vancouver Circus School(pg 75)810 Quayside Dr.New Westminster, B.C., V3M 6Z6 (604) 544-5024vancouvercircusschool.ca

Velocity Art and Design (pg 14)251 Yale Ave. N.Seattle, WA 98109(206) 749-9575velocityartanddesign.com

Walrus (pg 39)3408 Cambie St.Vancouver, B.C., V5Z 2W8(604) 874-9770walrushome.com

Ward&Co. (pg 48)1304 Fourth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101(206) 971-0951wardmensgrooming.com

Z Gallerie (pg 18, 80)zgallerie.com

GRAY issUe no. one 81

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Quality craftsmanship is essential to create a beautiful Northwest garden. As specialists

in residential landscape design, development, and maintenance,

Environmental Construction, Inc. has been crafting unique and inspired

outdoor living spaces since 1990.

Experience MattersExperience Matters

Call us today: 425 803.9881www.envconst.com

Sagitt ariusidealisti cadventurousoutspoken

Nov. 22–Dec. 21

Dustin Large Dodecahedron natural wood pendant, $690 at Lauren by Ralph Lauren, laurenhome.com. ❈ Large horn sculpture by Jonathan Adler, $150 at Click! Design That Fits, Seattle, clickdesignthatfi ts.com. ❈ Coracle chair by Benjamin Hubert for De La Espada, $3,895 at Inform Interiors, informinteriors.com.

disciplinedgroundedtenaciousCapricorn

Dec. 22–Jan. 19

We’ve consulted the stars, and they don’t lie. sagittarius and Capricorn,

you have great design in your future!

80 GRAY issUe no. one

Paddy Teal Crackle ceramic lamp by Arteriors Home, $615 at Couch, Seattle, couchseattle.com. ❈ Horseshoe wall hook, $16.95, Simplicity Buffet, $1,099, at Z Gallerie, zgallerie.com.

82 GRAY issUe no. one

SieMatic BeauxArts.02the latest interpretation

Everything you want in a kitchen. Everything you expect from a SieMatic original.See more online and at your nearest SieMatic showroom. www.siematic.us/ba2

SieMatic Seattle2030 1st Avenue Seattle WA 98121 Tel: 206.443.8620www.siematic-seattle.com

SieMatic-Seattle-BA2-SG-AD-8'375x10'875_v1:SieMatic Ad 11/03/11 11:07 AM Page 1