Huma Sulaiman
With the opening of Thús Huma in West Hollywood, interior designer Huma Sulaiman has redefined traditional design gallery curation. The by-appointment space serves as “both a platform and incubator, where craftsmanship and the people behind it are celebrated,” Sulaiman explains. “Every object carries a story from a distinct geography,” the Southern California-based designer adds, noting an ash table inset with Shital Pati, a type of centuries-old Bangladeshi weaving, and the Giza chair, which traces its lineage from Colonial craftsmanship and Indian Modernism. Alongside work from international artists and craftspeople are pieces by local makers—including Katrien Van Der Schueren, Nadine Weatherstone, Anna Shipulina and many others—as well as Sulaiman’s own collection of furnishings and iconic brands like Kohler, ABC Stone, Cosentino, Lutron and Miele. “I’m passionate about bringing together a diverse range of work,” she says, describing the gallery as “a shape-shifting haven that allows art, life and culture to merge seamlessly.” This fall, Thús Huma welcomes Colombian weaver and sculptor Mercedes Salazar. “Her striking, multidisciplinary works are a perfect fit for our narrative of collected global artistry and objects that foster connection,” Sulaiman says.
Erik Peterson
Santa Monica’s iconic Shutters on the Beach hotel recently unveiled a stylish update, courtesy of architect Erik Peterson, president of Scottsdale-based PHX Architecture, and designer Amy Kehoe, cofounder of L.A. firm Nickey Kehoe. The changes to the lobby (known as the Living Room) and the restaurant (1 Pico) were intentionally subtle, brightening the coastal property without sacrificing its beachfront charm. Peterson and Kehoe accordingly focused on meaningful changes more than monumental shifts. “One of the key elements Amy and I were both part of was getting light into the space without increasing the windows,” Peterson says. To achieve this, they introduced sconces and ceiling fixtures that improve functionality while reinforcing the property’s residential feel with lamp lighting. The architect also leveraged mirrors to create a greater sense of volume in spaces like the restaurant bar (shown above), where structural constraints prevented raising the ceilings. Other changes balanced the expansiveness with the property’s trademark coziness. The original wood floors in the Living Room were lightened and adorned with area rugs to create subtle seating groupings. Screen shutters were added as room dividers, custom artworks enhance the home-like feel and the traditional check-in desk evolved into podiums positioned toward the back. Peterson notes that hotels and resorts increasingly reflect their place rather than a corporate brand, an approach he sought to honor here. “We wanted it to feel like a residence and not like the lobby of a hotel,” he reflects.
