At Dwelling within the Workplace with Michael Aiduss and Houlès

It all started in Villa Kerylos. From the moment designer Michael Aiduss accidentally discovered the famous house in Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the French Riviera, he was thrilled. With a passion for history, architecture and fine craftsmanship, Michael Kerylos found a source of lasting inspiration. When the traditional French brand Houlès used him to create their first designer trim collection since the company was founded in 1928, Kerylos became his muse. Join Susanna and me in Michael’s stunning design studio in Montclair, New Jersey to see his inspiration, a look at the collection, and his creative design aesthetic.

In what was once the world’s largest lacrosse net factory, Michael renovated the large industrial area into a stylish studio for his design company. With high ceilings and large windows, the scales are cleverly managed so that the rooms comfortably simulate living spaces where both employees and customers can be inspired. The airy sample library below pays homage to Villa Kerylos with its peristyle console and decorative pillows from the collection.

Each room evokes Michael’s love of antiques, architectural structures, and luxurious materials – the designer in his office below.

There is plenty of inspiration and reference materials.

Villa Kerylos was built in the early 20th century and is now part of the French Ministry of Culture. It is an ode to ancient Greece in all its glory. The property combines the best of this classic civilization with the modern comforts of Belle Epoque mansions and reflects Michael’s refined and worldly approach to design.

From broad gestures to the smallest detail, the use of scales, patterns and materials at Kerylos was very popular with Michael, who magically translated his many motifs into his extraordinary collection. Houlès then interpreted it with the elegant and sophisticated craftsmanship for which the house is known.

Like Kerylos, the collection stands for classic beauty, modern sophistication and restrained glamor. And as Michael so cleverly proved, Trimm can improve design in many unexpected and creative ways (his update of Houlés’ Paris showroom for the collection debut below).

All photos by Stacey Bewkes for Quintessence

Thank you Michael for welcoming us to your inspiring design studio and to Houlès, for sponsoring and sharing your exquisite collaboration, craftsmanship and French savoir faire! We are so excited!