Louisiana Homes & Gardens Design Awards 2008: Wall Finish, Window Treatments and Structural Innovation
Wall Finish
Randy Verdin, Walls of Italy
The classic venitian plaster technique selected for the large penthouse suite of the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans was intended to enhance the luxurious and formal feel of the space. This technique, which combines crushed marble, limestone and water, was used extensively on the isle of Venice to give the illusion of solid marble construction. Here, three layers of translucent marmarino were hand applied to the wall creating an illusion of depth. The surface was then polished with a trowel and sealed with natural soapstone. A final layer of gold tinted natural wax was applied to the finished surface for effect.
Window Treatment
Charles Seale
To accentuate the red geometric stripes in the pattern, flat pleats the width of each stripe were fabricated. An oversized 3” reeded pole and triangles of embroidered silk organza were inserted near the bottom of the panels adding a modern twist as well as balancing the visual weight of the drapes. The top of each triangle is finished with a woven medallion and jewel drop for effect.
Structural / Decorative Innovation
Emily Heroman, Nu Crete Designs
This contemporary staircase boasts diamond polished concrete steps set into custom fabricated cast iron shells. The natural color and polished finish of the concrete is the perfect complement to the pristine white marble floors below. The depth of each stair is approximately 2” with open spacing between the steps creating a suspended look as the staircase winds upward. ✦
Quick Links to Award Winners:
Architectural Building Design: Contemporary
Architectural Building Design: Renovation
Architectural Building Design: Traditional
Interior Design: Traditional
Interior Design: Blended
Interior Design: Contemporary
Room Design: Bar, Kitchen and Dining
Room Design: Living Room, Home Office and Bedroom
Room Design: Child’s Room and Nursery
Room Design: Bathroom and Outdoor Living Space
Architectural Element: Stone, Metal and Wood
Eco-Friendly Design
Water Feature and Pool Design
Landscape Design: Large and Small
