PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: The Pad Silverthorne - In the spirit of gratitude

David Lauer Photography

As November is a time of celebration and giving thanks, our team is excited to share that a BraytonHughes Design Studios project, The Pad Silverthorne in Colorado, has been named winner in Boutique Design magazine’s 42nd Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design. From a competitive field of submissions representing more than 100 design firms around the world, The Pad was selected as 2022 Gold Key Awards winner in Best Lobby Focused Service and Best Hotel Focused Service categories.

David Lauer Photography

With an ethos grounded in social and environmental responsibility, the hybrid boutique hotel/hostel The Pad embodies the spirit of gratitude and giving back. Certified as a pending B Corp TM – a private certification given to for-profit businesses that meet high sustainability and environmental performance standards – The Pad aims to make a positive impact on people and the planet.

Partially constructed from 18 upcycled shipping containers and showcasing environmentally friendly construction and design, The Pad’s fun, affordable, and flexible accommodations put people in touch with Summit County’s incredible outdoor recreation while community-minded amenities promote connections between fellow adventurers.

David Lauer Photography

As a fresh new social lodging concept, The Pad fosters social wellness with spaces such as a communal kitchen, where guests can prepare their own meals, meet other travelers, and interact with locals in a casual, inviting setting. Whether sharing a meal, practicing yoga on the rooftop patio, or immersing in good company during the weekly events at the lobby’s riverside bar, A-BAR, guests, and locals are embracing The Pad as a community gathering place where they can be themselves, enjoy new experiences, and celebrate the beauty of their surroundings.

We wish the same for you and your loved ones this holiday season.

David Lauer Photography

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: ALILA VENTANA BIG SUR - INTRODUCING A DREAM GETAWAY THIS FALL

It is officially fall, the perfect time for soaking up the natural beauty of the Big Sur Coast from the luxury coastal resort previously known as Ventana Inn, and recently renovated and reimagined as Alila Ventana Big Sur.

In an article recently published in Carmel Magazine’s fall issue, contributing writer Amelia Ward prefaces her beautiful portrait of the resort with a description of Big Sur. A “dream destination…originally home to the Ohlone, Esselen and Salinan tribes,” Big Sur has historically drawn the likes of Hollywood stars, artists, bohemians, and Beat poets for its remoteness, dramatic hundred-year-old redwoods, and “golden California hills.”

Photo courtesy of Alila Ventana

For the most recent renovations at Alila Ventana Big Sur, BraytonHughes sought to tap into the free spirit of The Golden State in the 1960s, keeping the original character of the resort intact while enhancing the iconic architectural buildings featuring cedar planked interiors, end grain wood floors, and stone fireplaces. The relaxed modern design for the refresh creates a warm atmosphere with rustic furniture, rich leather, and wood furnishings, macrame wall hangings and handcrafted accessories.

Ideal for viewing fall foliage and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, guestrooms, villas, and suites at Alila Ventana Big Sur have private decks with forest or ocean views and luxury soaking tubs. In addition to guestrooms, the resort offers glamping, complete with a Bath House in keeping with the deeply rooted bohemian character of the locale.

Photo courtesy of Alila Ventana

After hiking one of the scenic trails around the resort or visiting nearby Pfeiffer Beach, guests can retreat to The Social House for star gazing and evening smores at the private firepits. We created unique rooms for each of the three existing spaces, creating The Social House as the perfect place to get cozy in luxurious cabin comfort. In the main Library & Music room, guests can relax in large leather chairs while enjoying a book or surrender to a sentimental mood while listening to an old album from the resort’s curated record collection. The adjacent Game Room invites guests to enjoy a leisurely game of pool, and a communal table in the Bar Room beckons for happy hour with wine and cheese.

Photo courtesy of Alila Ventana

At this reimagined sanctuary, one can honor the change in seasons in myriad ways, from unplugging through meditation or yoga or simply noticing subtle shifts in the rugged landscape from the comfort of the resort’s rustic yet refined interiors.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: BraytonHughes in the News!

Montage Big Sky Prefunction, Photo by Christian Horan

This summer marked our 30-year anniversary as a firm, and as we enter a new fall season, we’re thankful for all the love we’ve received in the press the past few months.

During Pride month, Architectural Digest spotlighted Joel Villalon as one of the designers behind Montana’s first luxury resort, Montage Big Sky. The digital magazine recognized Montage Big Sky and its nature inspired interiors as being among the 15 Stunning Hotels Around the World by LGBTQ+ Designers

Montage Big Sky Ballroom, Photo by Durston Saylor

In addition to being recognized in Travel + Leisure’s It List as one of the Best New Hotels in the World, this past July, Montage Big Sky was shortlisted in the event space category for Sleeper Magazine’s 2022 AHEAD Americas awards. Designed as a contemporary take on the classic North American national park lodge, Montage Big Sky is an idyllic destination for meetings and events, with over 12,000 square feet of flexible space for hosting memorable business and social gatherings. The design of each event space is rooted in nature while capturing the spirit of Montana and iconic elements from its history, from mining, timber, agriculture, and ranching. At 5,080-square feet, the Grand Ballroom is modeled conceptually after Montana barns, with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and soaring ceilings covered in intricate wood paneling. We are thrilled with the recognition this project is receiving for the elegant atmosphere of mountain luxury we brought to life.

The Pad A-Bar, Photo by David Lauer

We were also excited to see the unique modern mountain concept we created for the new hybrid boutique hotel and hostel, The Pad, showcased in the print issue of Modern Luxury Peak. Located on the former site of a 130-year-old dairy farm in Silverthorne, Colorado, The Pad offers affordable, high-amenity lodging that pays homage to the natural surroundings while immersing guests in the local community and giving them convenient access to Rocky Mountain experiences. We focused on creating a locally inspired design thoughtfully and intentionally aligned with The Pad’s goals, and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this first-of-its-kind project.

The Pad Guestroom, Photo by David Lauer

For three decades, BraytonHughes has been driven by projects that are interesting and have unique stories to tell. We are honored these stories are being shared with readers and showcased in leading award programs.

Project Spotlight: Happy 30TH BHD

We’re excited to announce that this month officially marks BraytonHughes Design Studios’ 30-year anniversary. Looking back on the many iconic destinations we’ve created in San Francisco, in addition to executive offices, private clubs, residences, senior living communities, and hotels in various parts of the world, we are proud of how BraytonHughes has evolved and expanded while honoring the original design philosophy of our founders, Richard Brayton and Stanford Hughes. Over the past three decades, we’ve approached each project as artists of interior spaces, addressing interior architecture, furniture, accessories, lighting, and art holistically and with highly crafted detail.

MONTAGE BIG SKY Photo by Durston Saylor

Our project portfolio has always reflected our design team’s desire to engage in diverse types of work, whether high-end corporate work and private clubs or hotel designs for Four Seasons, Montage and Fairmont.  Our design solutions even extend to custom furniture, decorative light fixtures, and area rug collections.  The connective thread running through all projects is our desire to convey a story that has not been told before about a place, through subtleties in color, texture, and materiality.

OVERLAKE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB, MEDINA, WA, Photo by Paul Dyer

TIGER RUG COLLECTION Designed by Kiko Singh, BHD

Where do we get our inspiration? What’s behind our never staying too closely to one specialization or style? Our team is made up of a group of avid travelers, always seeking what sets a location and property apart and considering how certain compositions of elements give a space its unique character and feel. This summer, our travels are taking us to near and far to the mountains, the beaches and across the pond to exotic locations. We encourage team members to explore new destinations and look forward to future projects in far-flung locales, for the diversity we witness in architecture, natural landscapes, and culture while traveling nurtures our ability to connect users with the character of their surroundings, and ensure our designs fit comfortably in their regional context.

We hope you enjoy any summer travel you have planned, and that you follow your curiosity and inner artist as you discover new places and rediscover familiar locales.

Designer Diaries - Kiko Singh

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

Avow was a great project. Beautiful historic renovation with a passionate client made for great storytelling. I love that its local and easy to swing by and enjoy!

2)      What is your favorite design product?

My next purchase is a set of the fyrn mariposa chairs for our dining room. I love that the chairs are timeless, heirloom pieces that are easy to ship, replacement parts are simple to install, and they are comfortable. The company’s commitment to the planet and the design innovation that goes into every aspect of their operation is truly inspiring.

3)      What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

My Godfather, Barry Elbasani, was a talented architect who founded a firm, ELS, in Berkley.  When I would come visit during the summer, I spent many hours as a kid running around the studio, drawing on trace and seeing what he was working on. When I was graduating from undergrad as a Studio Art/ Politics major I had no idea what to do next. He saw in me my love of travel and talent for art.  He encouraged me to go to design school and study interior design. While at the Academy of Art, I would spend weekends with him at the studio where he would give me critiques of my projects.  I learned from the best and it was an education I will never forget.

4)      If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive, who would they be?

Keanu Reeves, Jack Johnson, and Chris Farley

5)      What is your most used emoji?

 6)      What was your first job?

Tennis Camp Counselor

7)      What are you streaming right now?

Righteous Gemstones, Ozark, True Crime & Cult Documentaries

8)      What is your favorite snack food?

Spam Musubi or Tuna Onigiri

9)      In a parallel universe, what is your profession?

Marine Biologist

10)  Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Kombucha

Project Spotlight: The Pad

In the spirit of the worldwide Earth Day celebration on April 22, we’re shining a light on The Pad, a newly opened hybrid boutique hotel/hostel in Silverthorne, Colorado that features environmentally responsible design and honors the natural beauty of Summit County. Our team created a mountain modern concept for this new eco-friendly destination, which is certified as a pending B CorpTM.

Centrally located along the Blue River, the 101-bed property showcases eco-friendly design rooted in low-impact construction methods and local sourcing and upcycling of materials. We designed a custom bunk bed for the dorm rooms, which were fabricated locally in Denver by Where Wood Meets Steel, a company renowned for pairing sustainable, reclaimed trees with certified American-made steel. In addition to 18 up-cycled shipping containers that were incorporated in the design, wood from the dairy building that previously existed on site was integrated as salvaged material in an art piece by Colorado native Erica Nicol, the back bar area, and accent pieces throughout the property.

Combining the comfort and service of a hotel with the uncomplicated nature of a hostel, The Pad features a range of room types, from private higher-end suites – such as the “deluxe private room” suites featuring a private balcony with a view of the mountains – to hostel-style shared bunk experiences. The amenity-rich, flexible accommodations put people in touch with Summit County's skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and fly-fishing activities while promoting spontaneous connections, new experiences, and friendships amongst guests and locals.

Artwork by local artists immerses guests more deeply in the spirit of their surroundings. A local artist, Jessica Day, depicted nearby mountains – Red Mountain and Buffalo Mountain – in two commissioned paintings that bring vibrant color to the lobby bar. Featured in the hot tub area overlooking the Blue River, a mural by Max Komarov and Matt Maderer of the Chicago-based street art duo, It’s Mathematical encourages those who witness it to reflect on their place in the natural environment and feel a responsibility to protect, maintain, and restore its rivers and streams.

With amenities such as a welcoming riverside bar, hot tub, rooftop deck, co-working space, and spacious community kitchen, The Pad makes for the perfect spring and summer getaway, and a great place to celebrate Earth Day.

Designer Diaries - Rachel Fischbach

Get to know Principal Rachel Fischbach in this month’s Designer Diaries!

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

The Kuki’o Golf Club. First of all Hawaii is one my favorite places. I’ve been lucky enough to work on quite a few projects there. What I loved about working Kuki’o was that design was seamless between the exterior and interior spaces as well as between the interior architecture and the furnishings. From the art to the furniture, to the lighting to accessories everything just felt cohesive.

2)      What is your favorite design product?

I love the wallcoverings from Phillip Jeffries. They package their product so beautifully, do wonderful vinyl that doesn’t look like vinyl and have great murals. A great wallcovering really serves as a backdrop to any great design scheme.

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

My grandmother inspired me to a designer. She was an artist. For those of you that have been to our office, we have two of her pieces hanging in studio. Whenever I visited, I would help her in her studio. She was a printmaker and a painter. She taught me about color, proportion, and layering. She introduced to me to the world of art and design by taking me to museums and the way she talked about the world around her.

4)     If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive who would they be?
Jane Austen, Oprah and Amy Schumer.

5)     What was your first job?

I worked in the marketing department at the animation studio that produced “The Simpsons”.

6)  What are you streaming right now?
The Flight Attendant

7)  If you could teleport somewhere right now where would you go?
Paris! I love Paris anytime of the year.

8)     Where have you gotten lost on purpose?

Venice, Italy. It is such a fun to place meander without a map.

9)     Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Equator’s Rooibos Chai Latte

10)      How do you get your news?

Twitter & Streaming

Project Spotlight: All About The Women

In celebration of International Women's Day taking place on March 8 and Women’s History Month, BraytonHughes Design Studios is excited to share that we were recently certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise through a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the nation’s largest third-party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the US.

The visionary women designers at BraytonHughes help fuel our firm’s growth through their talent, creativity, dedication, and hard work, and we would like to shine light on the incredible members of our leadership team, Janea Nakagawa, Kiko Singh and Rachel Fischbach.

Recently promoted as President, Janea joined BraytonHughes in 2005 and became the first female principal in the firm’s history. Bringing her project management and corporate design expertise to the company, she has specialized in corporate, multi-family, and residential interiors projects for a diverse group of clients, including law firms, consulting groups, venture capitalists, and healthcare projects.

Growing up in Hawaii, Kiko was submerged in the island’s striking colors and textures and developed an affinity for nature and the environment. Her design style follows a pattern of clean lines, highly textured textiles and a neutral palette infused with pops of color coming from art and nature. Her latest project, The Pad in Silverthorne Colorado, is BraytonHughes’ first ever hybrid boutique hotel/hostel project, and features interiors that stay true to Colorado’s active mountain community and celebrate the natural beauty of the locale. Kiko works closely with her clients in all project phases, including initial concept and space planning, design development, and FF&E solutions, documentation, and construction administration.

Growing up in the colorful city of Los Angeles, Rachel’s passion for the arts developed at a young age and was nurtured by her grandmother, an artist, who introduced her to the world of art and design. At BraytonHughues, Rachel is involved with all phases of design, providing creative and innovative design solutions for a variety of hospitality, restaurant, and private club projects. Her latest project, the newly opened resort Montage Big Sky, incorporates references to Big Sky’s history and nature through artwork, a locally inspired color palette of natural hues, textures, patterns, and materials.

Please join us in honoring the many incredible women at BraytonHughes and in our everyday lives!

Designer Diaries - Cindy Reyes

Cindy Reyes gives some insight to herself in this month’s Designer Diaries!

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

I'm loving the architectural finishes for The Yellowstone Club; Everything in the details of the space, from the ceiling to the walls has a layered and clean design. You really see this in the Spa area where each space is cohesive and flows well.

2)      What is your favorite design product?

I find the USM Haller system interesting in the way it was created. I love how creative and varied this product can be applied in any sector.

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

A college course in AutoCAD.

4)     If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive who would they be?
Stephen Hawking, Bill Gates, Barack Obama

5)     What was your first job?

I worked in Napa for a non-profit rehab center for youth.

6)  What are you streaming right now?
Many podcasts from Spotify.

7)  If you could teleport somewhere right now where would you go?
Jay Walker's private library

8)     In a parallel universe, what is your profession?

The modern-day woman version of the Renaissance Man, master of multiple subjects and skills.

9)     Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Tea with Manuka Honey UMF.

10)      How do you get your news?

Online

Project Spotlight: I left my Heart in San Francisco

Valentine’s Day is approaching, and as Tony Bennett crooned about the city, “I left my heart in San Francisco,” the city by the Bay beckons couples with its iconic morning fog, breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and spectacular spaces to celebrate love this year.

The journey begins with one of Bay Area’s natural wonders, The Presidio, where passing through the Presidio Gate and following a path through the forest leads to the one of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Presidio National Park also invites couples to discover what is considered the oldest pathway in the city, Lover’s Lane. Here, a zigzagging art installation by Andy Goldsworthy called the “Wood Line” guides lovers down an enchanting path through the forest. Surrounded by the sweet scent of eucalyptus, with a sun dappled road beneath their feet, couples will feel like they are tucked deep in the wilderness.

Inn at the Presidio, Paul Dyer

The boutique hotel Inn at the Presidio was designed to encourage hotel guests to go out and explore such little-known gems in the Presidio. Couples will get a glimpse of San Francisco history at Pershing Hall, a Georgian Revival building where the design combines the charm and interest of a historic landmark with a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the National Park. Originally bachelor officer’s quarters, the design pays homage to the Presidio’s military history, and artwork amplifies the experience with antique maps of San Francisco, a vintage bugle collection dating to the Civil War, authentic army memorabilia from the Presidio Salvage Yard, and original oil paintings and army photos.

Couples can soak up the restored historic architecture and art pieces from the Presidio’s historic archive in the lobby, where comfortable, contemporary furnishings accommodate intimate moments by the fire.

Florio Bar and Café

Florio Bar and Café

After a day of exploring San Francisco history and hidden trails in The Presidio, a romantic dinner in an intimate bistro setting awaits at Florio Bar and Café on Fillmore Street. Couples will enjoy French and Italian fare in spaces designed to exude warmth and the chicness of the Pacific Heights surroundings. With interiors featuring a dark, warm material palette and elegant lighting, the neighborhood restaurant with sophisticated vibes is the perfect match for a memorable Valentine’s Day meal.

InterContinental San Francisco, Paul Dyer

After an eventful day, couples can escape to InterContinental San Francisco, where the renovated Presidential Suite delivers a stylish home away from home. With stunning views of the city skyline and standout features such as a dramatic black and white stone floor inspired by nearby SFMOMA and custom de Gournay wallcovering in the master bedroom, the 2-level suite is sure to inspire romance and deepen a love for the beautiful City by the Bay.

Project Spotlight: Montage Big Sky

Happy New Year from BraytonHughes! This year we are toasting in celebration of the newly opened Montage Big Sky and daydreaming of skiing on the dramatic and awe-inspiring mountaintops of Big Sky, Montana.

Christian Horan Photography

Opened December 15, 2021, Montage Big Sky is a modern alpine retreat surrounded by the grandiose Spanish Peaks range and under an hour from Yellowstone National Park. Drawing from the grandeur of the surrounding landscape for design inspiration, we imparted a contemporary take on the North American lodge and captured the genuine spirit of Big Sky. Nature’s range and splendor is expressed through a material palette of regional wood and stones, surfaces in the spa that appear like rocks that have been abstracted and sliced from a boulder, and double-height spaces with soaring gables in the public spaces that embody the iconic Spanish Peaks seen on the horizon line. The interiors offer a sense of renewal and respite so guests can connect with loved ones and feel refreshed after enjoying the outdoor recreation and incredible access to Big Sky Resort’s 5,850 skiable acres.

Christian Horan Photography

This iconic ski community is the perfect destination to create cherished family traditions and celebrate the new year surrounded by natural beauty.  

Christian Horan Photography

Designer Diaries - Towan Kim

Get to know one of our partners, Towan Kim in this month’s Designer Diaries!

Kukio

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

I just couldn’t pick one… so here are three

KUKIO

This project was a turning point for me, trained as an architect, and helped me embrace Interior Design to the full extent. It occurred to me that the interior should not be an afterthought, but an inspiration at the onset of the project to culminate in an overall success. It certainly helped to have an amazing team working together on this one and I can proudly say it finished out beautifully.

Avow

AVOW 

Every challenge in this project became a design opportunity

Jackson Street

Jackson Street

This project reveals the recipe for how BraytonHughes creates spaces. It combined the architecture, interiors and objet d’art effortlessly and it came together in a uniquely urban and sophisticated ensemble.

2)      What is your favorite design product?

I’m a big fan of a ‘Bulldog clip’.  Use it every day.

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

My grandmother.  Starting at an early age I would rearrange everything around me and once finished I’d find myself restarting the process all over again.  My grandmother pointed out that there is a profession for people like me.  Nowadays, I draw first before moving anything. 

Side note.  I would, if I could, live in a place that’s surrounded by E. J. Ruhlmann’s furniture in Molino’s interiors with Scarpa’s details in Zumthor’s building, somewhere along the Mediterranean…

Sketches – Ruhlmann + Interiors – Ruhlmann  Carlo Mollino - Wikipedia
Carlo Scarpa - Wikipedia     Peter Zumthor - projects

4)     If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive who would they be?
Botticelli, David Bowie, Miles Davis with his trumpet

5)     What is your most used emoji?

I don’t like emojis, not yet anyways ; )

6)  What are you streaming right now?
Premier League, UEFA Champions League and plenty of S. Korean shows.

7)  What is your favorite snack food?
Apples, the ones in season! Also, I’m trying to eat more chocolate.

8)     If you could teleport somewhere right now where would you go?

Bottom of the ocean.  I imagine it being wondrous and extraordinary.  I would be speechless.

9)     In a parallel universe, what is your profession?

Yoga Instructor by day, Jazz musician by night? or Truffle hunter!

10)      Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Americano. I take it piping hot. Also, green tea before coffee.

Project Spotlight: Warm By The Fire

‘Tis the season for staying cozy in the company of family and friends, and there is nothing like a beautiful fireplace to draw people together, a tradition that extends across the globe and over centuries. In the spirit of the holiday season this December, we’re spotlighting some of our favorite fireplaces that we designed that came to life in different shapes and materials and draw inspiration from distinctive locales.

A rustic stone fireplace adds cozy warmth to the idyllic retreat, Camp Runamok, where a charming camp cabin is tucked away in Marin’s mellow coastal town, Inverness.

The towering stone fireplace in the lobby at The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe creates the perfect ambiance to unwind, amidst stunning views of Martis Valley seen through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.

The lounge at Wyoming’s premier luxury mountain resort, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, boasts a massive flagstone fireplace with a split face slab mantel, offering a warm invitation for guests to relax by the fire after a day on the slopes or exploring Grand Teton National Park.

On the outskirts of Teton Village, where Shooting Star Clubhouse evokes memories of old ranch houses and barns, the coziest seat in the bar lounge is at the natural stone fire pit capped with a copper clad hood, where guests can sit back and relax in furniture custom designed with a refined western sensibility.

At Vaquero Golf & Country Club’s pro shop in Westlake, Texas, a custom tile mosaic by Heath Ceramics is embedded in the fireplace hearth. The tranquil landscape in the mosaic reinforces the inviting, boutique atmosphere of the room, where wood textures, warm colors, and comfortable furnishings create the feeling of a luxury private home.

The fireplace at El Dorado golf and beach clubhouse in Los Cabos, Mexico features spiraling pedestals that support the mantel and distinctive brick masonry with an elegant arched opening, adding romance and warmth to the space alongside stunning wrought iron candelabras.

At the mountain retreat Mountaintop Golf and Lake Club in Cashiers, North Carolina, where the interiors draw from the historic Blue Ridge Mountain range and the region’s American homestead architecture, an elegant fireplace with wooden mantel, high-back leather chairs, and a rustic center table make for a dreamy wintertime scene.

From the homey cabin hearth in Inverness, California to the elegant wood fireplace in Cashiers, North Carolina, we hope these cozy centerpieces kindle a desire to linger fireside with loved ones. Happy holidays from all of us at BraytonHughes Design Studios.

Designer Diaries - Nicole Smith

Meet our newest addition to our team, Nicole Smith in this month’s Designer Diaries.

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

No secret I’m a newbie to BHD but I would say a lot of the quality of projects drew me to want to work here (in addition to the amazing people 😊). I’m loving Canopy Baltimore and excited to hopefully see this win an award at the BDNY Gold Key Awards this Monday.

2)      What is your favorite design product?

I’m a sucker for Phillip Jeffries wallcoverings. There are my go-to for most products and they’re always coming out with great designs.

Beyond - HEAVEN ON MARSHMALLOW MANILA HEMP

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

Kudos to my Dad, who is an Architect. Growing up he would sometimes bring me to his project sites. I experienced being on the ground in a hard hat to the final install when he met up with his clients. The final install was the most inspiring to me. The memory that sticks out to me is when I tagged along with him to a fancy chocolatier/café he did in Seattle. The name of the Café never stuck with me, but my experience feels like it’s out of a movie scene. People were sipping coffee at the bar, throwing their head back and laughing about who knows what. The sound of my Dad chatting with his client in the background was muffled and it almost felt like it was in slow motion. It was so inspiring to me that these ‘random” people using the space were really enjoying themselves in an environment that my dad had created. The moment in time I think I knew this is what I also wanted to do too. I guess you could say it’s in my blood.

4)     If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive who would they be?
If you know me, I like to have a good time. I think this would be a fun table.

• Amy Schumer

• Will Ferrell

• Kobe Bryant

5)    What are you streaming right now?
All the things. I’m a big TV watcher. Right now, it’s all about Succession, Insecure and Curb Your Enthusiasm. I may or may not still watch Grey’s Anatomy every Thursday night on ABC 😊

6)     What is something that none of your coworkers know about you?

I’m part Japanese. Below is me in a Kimono at the Kinkaku-Ji. My family and I visited Japan in 2018 where we met family for the first time. I’m so grateful that I got to experience my heritage with my Baba (grandma) and see where she grew up as well.

7)  Where have you gotten lost on purpose?
I do this everywhere I travel. Paris, London, Japan, Puerto Rico, etc. I’m a Sagittarius so big on adventure. The believe the best experiences are the ones unplanned.

8)     In a parallel universe, what is your profession?

I would be a Surgeon, no question.

9)     Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Coffee. Americano, no room for cream (but leave room when I take it to go so there is no spillage)

10)      How do you get your news?

NPR Radio in the mornings

Project Spotlight: Congratulations To Our Team!

This November is brimming with activity for BraytonHughes Design Studios, and our team members are looking forward to some exciting award celebrations and speaking opportunities this month.

We are thrilled our recent project, the lively waterfront hotel Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point, has been nominated as a finalist in two categories for Boutique Design’s 41st Annual Gold Key Awards for Excellence in Hospitality Design. Big shoutout to the project team Kiko Singh, Joel Villalon, Lisa Vasquez, and Mino Bautista for bringing the locally inspired interiors to life.

This month we also want to congratulate Mino Bautista, a tremendously talented Associate and member of our Interior Architecture team, for being named to this year’s Boutique Design’s 2021 Boutique 18 class! This honor is bestowed upon rising design stars who are creating the most compelling hospitality venues of today and tomorrow. We will be toasting to Mino as he is celebrated with other winners at the 2021 BDNY Kickoff Party in New York on November 13.

We are also gearing up for CALA’s Fall Conference, where Kiko Singh will be presenting next week in Palm Springs. Drawing upon case studies such as our design at Casa Dorinda in Montecito, CA, Kiko will walk participants through our design process and share techniques for incorporating wellness into senior living communities, exploring topics such as how to tap into the senses, activate public spaces, and design for multi-generational appeal.

With all the events this November, it will be tough to slow down! But we want to take this moment to recognize our team’s hard work and how fortunate we are to work with great clients and partners on meaningful projects.

Designer Diaries - Nicole Alcayaga

Get to know Nicole Alcayaga in this month’s designer Diaries!

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

CHUAN SPA, LANGHAM PASADENA - Work — BraytonHughes Design Studios (bhdstudios.com). I really enjoyed being a part of the team on this project with its decorative elements & fun details.

2)      What is your favorite design product?

I have always liked how Johnathan Browning’s pieces combine classic lines with an attention to detail which elevates the designs. Jonathan Browning Studios | (jonathanbrowninginc.com)

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

When I was going to SRJC, right out of high school, I had a job doing retail displays. Several of the regular customers & my boss at the time encouraged me to look into interior design courses. I had always been interested in how a spaces impact people, and until then, had not considered design as serious career choice. To this day I am still friends with that boss & grateful for her encouragement to get into a field that I love as much today as I did when I first started out.

4)     If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive who would they be?
Mel Brooks, Ian Flemming & Julia Child.

5)    What is your most used emoji?
😘

6)     What was your first job?

Sonoma French Bakery.

7)  What are you streaming right now?

Only Murders in the Building

8)     What is your favorite snack food?

Dark chocolate covered pretzels.

9)     In a parallel universe, what is your profession?

Mystery writer.

10)      Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Coffee, black.

Project Spotlight: Leadership Change

The air is fragrant, crisp, and cool, and leaves are turning beautiful shades of crimson, yellow, and orange. We are loving the change in seasons and are excited to announce new leadership changes at BraytonHughes!

In addition to our 30th Anniversary, this year we are celebrating the promotion of Janea Nakagawa to President and Joel Villalon’s new role as Executive Advisor.

When Janea joined BraytonHughes in 2005, she became the first female principal in the firm’s history.  Her project management and corporate design expertise has been invaluable to the company, where she has specialized in corporate, multi-family, and residential interiors. Before pursuing interior design, Janea considered a career in fashion design, and through she is not a big fan of sewing (to this day she can’t sew a button), she taps into aspects of fashion design in her work, putting together elements such as art, architecture, and furnishings into unique combinations that reflect the vision of her clients.  

Joel has been with our firm since its beginnings, and his hand is evident in the team’s designs, including various projects that have been recognized for design excellence.  When he’s not working or attending concerts, he’s collecting art and tiles on his travels around the globe.  See some of his curated collectibles in his Guanajuato home. 

Working collaboratively as principals through the years, Joel and Janea have created a nurturing space for everyone to feel respected in their growth as designers. We would not be where we are today without their strong leadership and design expertise, and we are grateful they will have the opportunity to continue working closely together, deepening our roots in hospitality, residential, and corporate work and further diversifying our portfolio. 

Upon the firm’s 30th Anniversary this year, please join Towan, Rachel, Kiko, and the rest of the BHD team in congratulating Janea and Joel for forging a path of success and paving the way for more exciting milestones at BraytonHughes Design Studios.

Designer Diaries - Phuong Mai

Today we get hear from our amazing intern Phuong Mai.

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

My favorite project is Canopy Baltimore! The material choices convey a sense of coziness inside and really enhance the beautiful views outside. Also love the color combinations and the amount of details involved. Chef’s kiss!

2)      What is your favorite design product?

Echo Totem Light by the sustainable brand ZZ Driggs. Sculptural looking, minimal, and made from locally-harvested birch.

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

My dad. He’s super into beautiful houses and details, it was probably through the conversations I had with him that I realized interior design was something I’m passionate about.

4)     If you could have dinner with any 3 people dead or alive who would they be?
My grandfather, Dan Brown, and Helly Tong.

5)    What is your favorite hotel or restaurant?

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam.

6)     What are you streaming right now?

Vagabond on Netflix.

7)  What is your favorite snack food?

Lay’s, seaweed flavor.

8)     If you could teleport somewhere right now where would you go?

Vietnam! I haven’t got a chance to go back and visit my family since the pandemic started.

9)     In a parallel universe, what is your profession?

A detective or a director.

10)      Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Tea (Taro milk tea with boba pearls …)

Project Spotlight: The Year It Began

When Richard Brayton and Stanford Hughes got together to establish BraytonHughes Design Studios thirty years ago, a cultural shift and major innovations were happening. The Soviet Union collapsed, the Hubble telescope took its first observations of the planet Jupiter, and the very first web page was created, changing our lives forever! Amidst these world events and advances in knowledge, BraytonHughes Design Studios was launching in San Francisco.

With these 10 noteworthy moments in history, we hope you enjoy this look back to the year of our founding, 1991, a time when:

The Melchor Investment Company, Palo Alto

1. Brayton Hughes Design Studios completed its first project, offices for The Melchor Investment Company in Palo Alto. In a building that once housed a glass factory, Stanford and Richard created interiors that honored the building’s original industrial character.

2. The World Wide Web was launched to the public, with instructions on how to use it. We owe the ease with which we retrieve and share information online to British computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee.

3. Disney released Beauty and the Beast, the first animated film ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture.

4. The MP3 file format was accepted as a standard.

5. 60 Minutes was the most popular TV show, Terminator 2: Judgment Day was the highest-grossing film, and A Thousand Acres was the best-selling book.

6. The “Grunge Revolution” began, and Nirvana’s Nevermind became one of the most popular albums of the decade, selling 11 million copies in the U.S.

7. The Super Nintendo Entertainment System launched in the U.S., marking Nintendo’s entry into the 16-bit console market.

8. In San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Park, a free concert called “Laughter, Love and Music” was held to honor the memory of promoter Bill Graham (January 8, 1931 – October 25, 1991), who died in a helicopter crash ten days earlier. Approximately 300,000 fans made their way to the park’s polo grounds to hear performances from Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, The Grateful Dead, Journey, Santana, and more. “I haven’t seen this field this full since we tried to stop the Vietnam War,” Crosby said.

9. A passed referendum in South Africa supported creation of a new constitution for multicultural society, bringing an end to Apartheid.

10. People Magazine named Patrick Swayze the “Sexiest Man Alive.”

There have been many high points in our thirty years as a firm, and we’re grateful to our amazing founders, clients, partners, and committed team members for being a part of this journey.

Designer Diaries - Janea Nakagawa

Today we feature our first Principal for our Designer Diaries, Janea Nakagawa!

1)      What is your favorite BHD project (either that you have worked on or not)?

Jackson Street is my favorite BHD project. It represents the balance of art, architecture, and furnishings which defines BraytonHughes’ work.

Photos by Paul Dyer Photography

2)      What is your favorite design product?

Muji stationary products

3)     What (or who) inspired you to be a designer?

My journey to becoming a designer was a circuitous path. Originally, I wanted to be a journalist because I was inspired by Connie Chung. I quickly realized that I didn’t enjoy writing or researching so I moved on to fashion design, but I couldn’t even sew on a button (and I still can’t). I took the aspects of fashion design that interested me the most, which was the creative part of putting together individual pieces or elements into a unique combination. This is when I found interior design.

4)     What is your favorite hotel or restaurant?
Sushi Ran

5)    What was your first job?

I was a hostess at a restaurant

6)     What is your favorite snack food?

Lays potato chips

7)  If you could teleport somewhere right now where would you go?

Dubai

8)     Where have you gotten lost on purpose?

Paris

9)     Coffee or Tea? How do you take it?

Coffee, preferably Illy dark roast, two sugars

10)      How do you get your news?

I read the NY Times and SF Chronicle