This is the charming Havana home of Cuban artist Damian Aquiles and his expat wife Pamela Ruiz.  This Cuban home is a pre-revolutionary villa with tons of character and history.  Aquiles and Ruiz acquired the home in a house swap and then took to the task of making it over while keeping much of its original charm.  It took them years to restore the villa.  After a myriad of challenges including several hurricanes, the couple finally finished the house last year.  According to an article in the New York times, since then, the house has become a must stop on the Cuban social circuit…and has included a mix of local artists and visits from international “celebrities” like Will Smith, Jada Pinkett Smith, Anne Bass and the Proenza Schouler designers.

What I love about the house is the blend of the old architecture with modern furnishings.  I also love the different tile floors in each of the rooms.  The tile somehow adds even more character to a home that is replete with it.

Love the tile in the eat-in kitchen the best.  Would be happy to travel to Cuba and to be invited to one of Pamela’s “legendary” dinner parties to tour this lovely home.

xo
Coco

P.S.  Back in Chicago today!  Staying at Four Seasons for one night then moving to the James Hotel.  Apparently it is impossible to get a room for two nights in Chicago right now because the marathon is this weekend.  2 years ago, my guy TE ran the Chicago Marathon and we came to watch him.  It is unbelievable what these runners do…over 26 miles in one morning!  Hmmmm…makes me realize how a blog post, a cup of tea and getting dressed is really not a morning accomplishment at all in comparison.  #stillnochanceofmeeverrunningamarathon  🙂

Photos: New York Times