In response to the evolving dynamics of modern lives, architects Nicholas Gennari and Roberto Racy of Nar Design Studio embarked on an interior design project that highlights the essential role our homes play in our overall well-being. This is especially relevant in an era where remote work and home office arrangements have become increasingly prevalent, blurring the lines between our personal and professional spaces. Conceived for a client who leads a demanding professional life, the project seeks to provide not just a luxurious and contemporary home but an authentic sanctuary—a fusion of nature-inspired serenity and the rejuvenating ambiance of a spa. This project aims to put together elements of nature, contemporary luxury, and a refreshing spa-like atmosphere into an inviting residence.
The client, a dedicated and busy professional, had a vision for a home that transcended the ordinary. Working on a leadership role in the high-tech market, he sought a space where he could relax, recharge and connect with nature after long and demanding days at work. The firm’s mission was clear: create a contemporary yet welcoming haven infused with the soothing ambiance of a spa, all while curating furniture selections that transmit the sophistication that a multi-million-dollar house deserved. The main idea for this project was to create a luxury ambience that would provide the sensation of a safe refuge that would embrace the user, like a cave.
As you step inside, your senses are immediately engaged by the dramatic double-height entrance with a glass ceiling. This design choice contrasts beautifully with the great room's entrance with a parametric ceiling, which draws inspiration from the fluidity of water, and transmits the idea to the user of entering a cave-like environment. The attention is also brought to the arrangement of infinity-mirror artworks displayed above a curved glass bench. The result is an enchanting focal point that effortlessly combines elements of mystery and sophistication.
An organic-shaped chaise lounge, adorned in plush wool fabric, sits gracefully in this space, adding an elegant touch while staying true to its naturalistic inspiration. The seating arrangement is completed by 2 sculptural wood lounge chairs and monolith rough stone coffee table. It serves as an introduction to the overall design narrative, where modern luxury seamlessly mingles with the serenity of nature. Reflecting the owner passion for books there is an entire wall dedicated for a custom bookshelf with backlit illumination that gives life for the space at night with a cozy indirect light resembling of a window at the sunset.
The dining room takes center stage as the heart of this retreat, drawing inspiration from the captivating cenotes caves. A natural rough stone wall, reminiscent of cenote walls, assumes a central role in this design, exuding raw, organic beauty. The massive pieces weighing 800kg each brings wonder and fascination to this space. This raw, natural beauty starkly contrasts with the opulence of a Sahara Noir marble-top dining table and an elegant wine cellar featuring metallic gold and glass doors, and a dark central niche. Forest green velvet dining chairs mimic the lush foliage of nature, creating a cohesive and visually engaging space that transports inhabitants to the depths of a cave-inspired environment. The design of this space invites you to dine while surrounded by nature's allure, elevated by sophistication in every detail.
The color palette chosen for this project is inspired from the savannah, a biome inherently connected with humans, as proven by scientific studies. Earthy tones dominate the backdrop, with warm browns, soft beiges, and sandy neutrals creating a harmonious canvas. Accents of deep greens evoke the lushness of nature, while pops of warm gold and bronze emulate the sun's gentle touch. This carefully chosen color scheme fosters a sense of tranquility, grounding inhabitants in a soothing environment that effortlessly bridges the gap between the modern and the natural. It harmonizes seamlessly with the biomimetic and nature-inspired elements woven throughout the home's design.
The family room offers a cozy retreat within this haven. A white bouclé sofa, complemented by metal shelves, adds an inviting touch to the space. A bright red accent lounge chair introduces a contemporary and playful pop of color and character, while a root coffee table contributes an element of organic charm. Wool and viscose rugs in a soothing sand color complete the space, providing a tactile connection to the earth beneath our feet. The large green wall, in addition to enhancing acoustics, ensures a strong connection to the outdoors, blurring the boundaries between inside and out. A custom media unit, complete with a sizable sliding door, not only embraces functionality but also preserves the design's flow. The idea behind this solution was to accommodate the impressive 140” projection screen and at the same time to not compromise any windows. This versatile space can serve as a cozy and embracing media room or a contemporary living room with vast outdoors views. This area seamlessly integrates with the dining room and great room, enhancing the overall flow of the design and encouraging a sense of cohesion.
The bedroom serves as a serene sanctuary, predominantly dressed in soothing sand colors. However, the design takes a bold turn with a striking dark green velvet bed that becomes the room's focal point. The headboard wall combines the raw beauty of rough stone in the lower section with custom wood panels arranged in angular patterns, softly illuminated by diffuse lighting. A viscose sand-colored rug adds texture and warmth to the space, providing a tactile connection to the earth. Extra-wide nightstands offer practicality and balance, while sleek pendant lights add a touch of contemporary elegance. The result is an ambiance of relaxation and refinement, providing an ideal environment for rest and rejuvenation.
This project was conceived with the intention of achieving a personal wellness retreat for the client while simultaneously offering an elegant space for entertaining guests. It embodies the concept of a contemporary biomimetic spa retreat, where the serenity of nature converges harmoniously with modern design and sophistication, a reflection of the careful selection of furniture pieces. From the cave-inspired entrance to the cenotes-inspired dining room and the serene bedrooms, this project encapsulates the restorative power of nature, offering a sanctuary
that seamlessly blends relaxation with refined style. It serves as a testament to the importance of crafting homes that elevate our well-being in today's fast-paced world. This project has recently received some awards such as German Design awards, SBID Design awards, seaglass awards, INT design awards and IDA Design awards.
