Notes from the Studio, Vol. 04
01. Inspired Stays
We swung by the Lafayette Hotel in San Diego between client site visits and showroom appointments. Originally opened in 1946, the Lafayette has been lovingly restored to preserve its charm and Hollywood-era glamour. Post Company collaborated with hotel owner Arsalun Tafazoli to create immersive moments that feel like curated sets more than just interiors.
There are nearly half a dozen food & beverage options—each is a unique experience. We loved every detail of the nostalgic bowling alley (The Gutter), modeled after the Frick Museum, to the “Jungle Room” that evokes a 1920s New York nightclub.
Walls and furnishings are saturated in bold patterns and rich tones. Wallpapered ceilings, draped canopy beds, over-the-top bar carts, and a theatrical layering of surfaces abound.
Whether layering patterns, mixing eras, or weaving architecture into storytelling, it inspires us to design spaces that are alive, tactile, and utterly dramatic.
02. On Trend: Banquettes
Banquettes are moving from restaurants into homes. If you’re considering one, think about:
Flow (can people easily get in and out?)
Comfort (cushion depth, back height, and fabric choice)
Integration (built-in with millwork, furniture piece, or casual with loose cushions?)
Done thoughtfully, a banquette can transform a corner into the most inviting spot in the house. Below you’ll find some banquettes we’ve recently saved on Instagram for future reference in our projects.
03. Real or Engineered?
Engineered hardwood is a smart alternative to solid wood flooring. First, it’s made of real wood layered over a stable core, which makes it less prone to warping or shifting with changes in temperature and humidity. That durability makes it especially practical for kitchens, basements, and coastal homes.
Aesthetically, engineered wood looks just like solid hardwood. It often has more installation flexibility and a more approachable price point.
At Studio Isaac, we often recommend engineered hardwood when clients want the warmth of wood paired with long-term performance.
If you enjoyed reading this, consider getting Notes from the Studio straight to your inbox.
Subscribe to our newsletter below:
