August 2005 • Features
The Insiders
Metropolis introduces five emerging interior design practices reshaping space and redefining the creative process.
By Paul Makovsky
Identifying promising young and emerging designers is always a challenge. The designers we’ve selected here—whether architects, interior designers, or decorators—reflect the diversity of current practice. Some are up-and-comers, like Alexia Kondylis and Brian Callahan in New York, or Melissa Kleve, with the Eva Maddox office in Chicago. Others are developing a mature body of work. Take a look at the tropical modernism of Luis Pons, Icrave’s latest club in New York, or the teamwork of L.A.-based Commune. This fresh crop of talent has distinctive traits, but all have one thing in common: they see no boundaries or limitations.
Thanks to Brooke Hodge, Lovejoy Duryea, Shashi Caan, and Betsy S. Gabb for nominating candidates.
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Luis Pons, 39
Miami, FL; Founded: 2004
Taking inspiration from the climate of Miami, Luis Pons creates a tropical modernism of subtle refinement.
Portfolio: Recent projects include the firm’s new offices, the renovation of a Florida house for Eric Carle, and three villas in St. Barts. In November the firm will build a temporary installation of inflatables in the bay near its offices.
On Breaking In: In 2002 Pons was living in Venezuela and temporarily moved to Miami to complete a house. A friend introduced him to architect David M. Schwartz, who liked his work and agreed to sponsor a Stateside company.
Approach: Pons attempts to bring the tropical climates of Miami and his native Venezuela indoors. “Weather dictates what I do,” he explains. He also draws inspiration from Miami culture. The importance that Pons places on bringing elements of nature into interiors is
underscored by a close attention to framing views and his use of materials that mimic the coral, sand, and sea a few blocks from his front door.
Fast Forward: The firm is currently developing product collections based on custom-created details executed in previous commissions: credenzas and armoires, lighting fixtures, doors and room dividers, and inflatable furniture. “I’d also love to create a prefabricated house,” Pons adds. —Mireille Hyde
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