After experiencing and pondering the value of incorporating nature’s elements into architectural planning in the previous blog, I find myself winding into the countryside from sea level to a mile high into jungles and ultimately pine forests, across vast expanses of rivers and towering bridges spanning grand abysses…and stopping at a modest panaderia (bakery) on the side of the road.
You can’t tell a book by its cover as this simple little rural structure – standing alone – looked curiously intriguing and quaint enough, with an unpaved parking area transitioning to well-tended pea-gravel. Traffic cruised by, on the way across the bridge.
Those that knew, turned in. We pulled off the road and were told that this couple had a wonderful bakery and were promised an exceptional treat! Fresh empanadas that would bring remarkably satisfying mid-morning joy.
Oh, were we in for a surprise! At the entry, I stopped to shoot the whimsical cup of coffee mosaic set in a field of stone and concrete. I thought – what a fun design element to greet arrivals and set the stage. But I had no idea to what extent I was about to be elated. What unfolded so exceeded my expectations that I wanted to stay all day!!!
Happy stone and tile-work adorned the pathways. From the textures of stone and brick, tile and wood – it was an organic fantasy – an unexpected design experience.
Ceilings of colorful floral blooms – perhaps wisteria – suspended from their vines and other plantings intertwined with the structure.
The wafting aroma of fresh baked goods – it was more than delightful. From warm savory clouds with mushroom filling and another with chile-laced sausages – and an array of sweet strawberry, cream and pineapple empanadas to corn muffins, banana muffins and more! All nestled beneath colorfully woven cotton tablecloths.
Rich Mexican coffee with a touch of freshly ground cinnamon and luscious hot chocolate were served in custom-glazed “barro ware” complimenting the fresh-from-the-oven confections.
The exhibition baking kitchen overlooked the serving line. The buffet of pastries thoughtfully explained by our gracious and welcoming host, Jesus!
Fragmented spaces open, yet enclosed, offered intimate pockets in which to pause and enjoy.
Clever use of clean blond wood shavings on the floor of the main covered patio created a wall-to-wall carpet of fresh aromatics complimenting the inviting aromas emitted from the ovens. Rocking chairs and rigid sturdy versions, with a fun little rope swing, all surrounded by tropical plantings made a cozy area to gather.
As I meandered around exploring all the interesting spaces, textures, colors and plantings, I marveled at the sensitivity with which this had all been crafted and assembled. It was artful interior design with an exterior feel – open air and charming, with a decidedly handcrafted, Mexican sense of place.
It was an eclectic collage of furniture, structure and organics – living and static – that was welcoming and artful, delightful and so pleasing, that it was a treat for all the senses.
The cool morning air of the mountains mingled, with the comforting fragrances, creating an atmosphere inviting gentle conversations of people gathered around good food and artfully relaxed surroundings.
Peek in places and through doorways to find worlds of design waiting to be discovered!!!
Lovely rich neutrals are stunning enough to be considered for indoor use too.
When shopping for outdoor materials – watch for that fiber content…it makes a difference. But know that there are thousands of incredible fabrics that you won’t find in the seasonal departments of local stores. We search the world to find these exceptional fabrics in order to present exclusive offerings to make outdoor spaces defy outdoor “exterior” design. IF only for pillow accents (due to the precious prices), that can be THE show-stopper for your outdoor rooms. Find some that you LOVE and take the plunge.
Discover garden elements that would surely rust if left out in the rain – these are perfect for powder-coating! Once treated, these fabulous “finds” will be durable exterior design features without a care – retaining their appearance and supporting your climbers for years in your garden!!!
More durable than paint, this process for metal furniture (and more) usually starts with sandblasting the existing finish – rust and all – clean as a whistle – and provide a finish that will protect and preserve the appearance for years of exposure to the elements – sun, wind, rain – no problem! Powder coatings are just that – a complex combination of materials that are combined and manipulated and ground into a soft powder. The application is done with electrostatic charge delivered via a spray gun. The powder-coated pieces are baked where the heat cures the coating. Powder-coatings come in so many colors! The resulting finish is extremely durable and will last for decades.
Other than furniture, it is also applicable for architectural detailing around your home and is certainly used in large-scale commercial applications. Powder-coating can be applied to other than metal pieces – but the technique differs slightly.
add a TV, fireplace,
or chimenea, that will transform your exterior pockets into worry-free and priceless outdoor room additions for many months to come!!! You’ll want to LIVE out there!
