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The Elegant Language of Foley&Cox – In Conversation with Michael Cox

INSIDERS

Keywords:

Interviews , Residential , Inspirations
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The spaces designed by Foley&Cox are infused with a dual trace: on one side, the studio's manifesto, founded on the pursuit of serene design, subtly layered with comforting colors and materials; on the other side, the manifesto of a personal design, expressing the client’s individuality. It is no coincidence that their homes quickly become the favourite places of those who commission them. Resulting from in-depth dialogue and a consistent study of the context, the projects by Foley&Cox are a synthesis of places and people, landscapes and atmospheres. Binding it all together is the thread of a subtle balance that stands on terms of elegance, art, and culture. We discussed this with Michael Cox, who in this interview explained his language of design and, as the title of his latest publication suggests, of home.

<br /> Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Image copyright: @Foley&Cox
<br /> Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

How would you summarize the manifesto of your studio? What are the characteristics that make you recognizable in the current landscape? 

The terms in which the Foley&Cox studio finds the best synthesis are ‘appropriate’ and ‘timeless’. Our spaces are well-grounded in location, echo the spirit and desires of the homeowner, and respect the architectural context. The interiors live with the client, evolving with warmth and patina. There is no room for trendiness or ‘styled for Insta’: our homes reflect real people living comfortable, elegant lives.

Your latest publication, Language of Home, is a monograph dedicated to your residential language? How would you describe it to someone who hasn't had the chance to know it? 

The synopsis is that of a celebration of twenty years of wonderful collaborations – with clients, architects, builders, artisans, and craftspeople. We wanted it as a heartfelt acknowledgment of all the talent that contributes to that beautiful image on the page, as well as a broader context, in paper form, to showcase the breadth of our work – from Manhattan penthouse to Bahamian beachfront, to Tyrolean ski chalet, to a G5000 aircraft.

<br /> Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Image copyright: @Foley&Cox
<br /> Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Your approach can be defined as 'different'. What makes it so?

The distinctive trait lies in the fact that each of our projects is defined by a precise ‘design manifesto’, which in turn is influenced by specific factors. Among these are the geographical region, the architectural style and, finally, the most distinguishing characteristic of all, that is the client’s personality, goals, and dreams. As we begin design development, we strive to keep those priorities as our design intent ‘north star’ and make sure we are leaving our egos at the door.

What are the main sources of inspiration for your work, both related and not directly related to the world of A&D?

The first and fundamental source of inspiration for our work is travel. The wonderful documentary Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel encapsulates the endless ideas that can arise from observing a beautiful, culturally rich world rooted in art. The act of fully immersing oneself in foreign places informs how we achieve a universal sense of a ‘welcoming hug’, no matter where in the world the project is located. To this, we add history and its study. Indeed, the amazing achievements of celebrated and lesser-known architectural, fashion, and interior design legends that precede us provide another well-spring of influence and inspiration.

<br /> Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Image copyright: @Foley&Cox
<br /> Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Image copyright: @Foley&Cox

Who are the masters, both from the past and the present, you most look at?

Francois-Xavier and Claude Lalanne are our masters regarding furniture and sculpture. Timeless and collectible, their pieces add charm, whimsy, and character to gardens and interior rooms, evoking an enchanting story and tickling the imagination of the beholder. I then cite Mies and Mongiardino, described by two disparate aesthetics but both genius at the distillation of the dream, from minimal to maximal. These pillars of design constantly influence in the subtlest and most sophisticated of ways.

What are your pedictions for the industry? What do you expect from now to the next five years? And what do you hope for?

I think we are experiencing a new definition of home being created by the WFA (Work From Anywhere) Concept. As people have reprioritized careers and work-life balance, the value and importance of the foundation of ‘home’ have never become greater. I predict we will see increasing investment in quality items that are more long-term, investment furnishings as people tire of the quick, disposable, landfill items that proliferated post-pandemic. What I hope is that the “home is where the heart is” concept is heard more and more on people’s lips. I hope there is a return to friends sharing dinners at home; families hosting reunions in backyards; neighbours dropping by to share fresh homemade baked goods, and roommates staying home to practice mixology and impressing each other with creativity. Finally, I would also hope for the return of the ‘salon,’ where an eclectic group of friends gather to share storytelling, poetry readings, musical pieces, and good old-fashioned intellectual dialogue.

Michael Cox <br/> Owner Foley&Cox
Michael Cox
Owner Foley&Cox
foley-cox-medelhan-design-courier.jpg

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