Homes & Estates

16 | Homes & Estates

upscale homes, than

The New American Home

(TNAH), designed and constructed each year in con-

junction with the International Builders’ Show to show-

case the latest in architecture, building science and

design. Phil Kean, whose Winter Park, Florida, firm

has a track record of award-winning, high-performing

residences that are simply stunning, orchestrated this

year’s TNAH. His inspiration came from a trip to Palm

Springs and the lifestyle personified by Sinatra’s Rat

Pack. Ties to Mid-century Modern are evident through-

out, but the overall architecture is progressive, reflect-

ing what is recognized as

international contem-

porary aesthetic

A large cube form comprised of stone, flanked

by modern arrangements of

wood and glass

anchors the exterior and elevates the entry. Inside, one

arrives at an interior courtyard configured as a putting

green. One goal for the plan was a home that could

be considered a self-contained resort.

Disappear-

ing walls and doors

open main living areas to this

central open-air space on one side and pool, patio

and lake views on the other, making the lush green

Florida landscape part of the experience. For upscale

homes, from estates to high-rises in all climates, an

indoor-outdoor synergy is an expected feature, and

rather than simply an amenity,

an orientation to

the outside

is integral to the DNA of new homes.

Designed for ultimate flexibility with pods that

can be shut down when not in use, TNAH is suited

for

multiple generations

, frequent visitors or even

a group of friends or family who pool resources and

purchase the home together. From the sleek kitchen

with modern gloss and glass cabinets to a master suite

with a private courtyard and massage space to dark

framing that highlights doors and windows as design

elements, forward-looking features are on display.

High-gloss cabinets

are an emerging trend,

according to the National Kitchen and Bath Associa-

tion’s (NKBA) annual design survey. Clean lines, built-

ins and simple door styles define kitchens today.

Contemporary outpaces traditional as the second-

most-popular style.

Transitional

remains most

preferred, but even this look appears more refined

and streamlined every year. Also, gaining interest are

industrial and Mid-century Modern. Boomers find Mid-

century familiar, almost nostalgic, while for younger

consumers it is new and fresh.

Preferences for white and gray show no signs

of slowing down, but a stroll through the show floor

reveals a kaleidoscope of future possibilities — pops

of colors,

large geometric patterns, reclaimed

wood and mixed metals

. More than a few blue

hues, often with gray undertones, were in evidence,

particularly for cabinets.

Black

is another color gain-

ing prominence, often with a soft brushed finish. “Black

is a great classic, whether it’s a matte with graining

or high-gloss lacquer,” says Chicago designer Donna

Mondi, who sees natural wood tones as part of the

transition away from a strictly neutral palette.

an orientation to the outside in The New American Home

high-gloss cabinets

disappearing walls and doors

large geometric patterns

in The New American Home

DESIGNER: DEDRA HINANO NAHINU, CKD; CO-DESIGNER: J.R. LUDLOW,AKBD

PHOTO BY AUGIE SALBOSA

DESIGNER ROBIN R. FISHER, CMKBD, CAPS;