An Island Sanctuary

Book excerpt: With vivid colors, bold simplicity, and the use of stone, stucco, and tile, the Patmos house of renowned interior designer John Stefanidis is a source of inspiration for homeowners and decorators worldwide. John Stefanidis has created a quintessential island house in Patmos, Greece. Its bold use of Mediterranean colors, natural materials, and crisp, clean lines epitomize this comfortable yet sophisticated style, which is surprisingly easy to evoke at home. Sun-drenched rooms make use of such materials as tile, stone, and stucco. One of the hallmarks of the house is its emphasis on indoor/outdoor living: spaces such as the "garden rooms" and the "breakfast terrace" are outside, yet are thought of as parts of the house. The exquisite gardens are further evidence of a style that easily flows from the inside to the outside of this beautiful and inspiring home. In his own words, Stefanidis explains how the house has evolved over many years, reflecting the designer’s love for the island, his original use of vibrant color, his eclectic and cosmopolitan aesthetic, and a desire to combine comfort with style. With two hundred vibrant photographs, the book demonstrates how the picturesque scenery of an island retreat and its rich history and culture provide inspiration for present-day living.