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The Unique Fusion of Cultures in Val Kilmer’s Santa Fe Home
Val Kilmer’s residence in Santa Fe reflects an eclectic blend of influences, as explained by interior designer Kent. “The original furniture didn’t align with the Southwestern aesthetic of Santa Fe,” he noted. To remedy this, they opted for a transformation that embraced Native American textiles instead of traditional slipcovers, complemented by vintage Navajo rugs that carpet the space.
Kilmer’s global travels inspired the home’s decor, allowing for a diverse array of decorations. Kent highlights the inclusion of a Moroccan lamp alongside sconces and a captivating collection of art and artifacts from New Guinea, some pieces resting casually against walls, including an imposing totem in the living room. The kiva-style fireplace serves as a focal point, adorned with candles, which Kent points out are amongst Kilmer’s favorite items. Many of these candles are handcrafted by local artisans for her store. The ambiance is further enhanced by antique antelope horn chandeliers that are solely illuminated by candles.
The master suite upstairs showcases an inviting arrangement: a narrow Navajo rug from the 1930s lies beneath an antique lace bedspread on a sturdy mahogany four-poster bed. A brown leather sofa is adorned with a cozy Portuguese wool throw, inviting relaxation. The beamed ceilings throughout the house and the walls adorned with images of Kilmer’s children contribute to a warm and personal atmosphere.
The overall aesthetic strikes a balance between casual and sophisticated, with elements that reflect both strength and a gentle touch. A mounted antelope head adds a rugged charm, while heart rocks lined along the stairwell provide a sense of tenderness. In the library, a selection of primitive tools decorates a table, further enhancing the character of the space. The furnishings, including oversized sofas and chairs, lean towards a masculine style, although Kilmer has humorously considered replacing them with large pillows for a more relaxed setting. “Val often lies on the floor in his library, talking on the phone for hours with his feet on the desk,” Kent shares, illustrating Kilmer’s laid-back approach to work and life.
Should he choose to sit, the library also features a pair of elegant French armchairs crafted from weathered leather. Kilmer recounts a nostalgic story of discovering these chairs in a New York shop during the early 1980s. Despite being unable to afford them initially, he felt a deep connection and eventually purchased the larger pair, though the details of the sale escape him. “Years later, I stumbled upon the smaller chairs in a Santa Fe home, owned by a photographer who had experienced a similar attachment to them back in New York,” he recalls, highlighting the serendipitous nature of their journey.
Reflecting on his life in Santa Fe, Kilmer expresses a deep appreciation for the city’s unique spirit. “One of the most attractive aspects of living here is its vibrant energy,” he muses. Kilmer shares insights into the historical significance of the location, where various Indian tribes journeyed to exchange ideas, engage in trade, and celebrate life. This legacy of community and cultural exchange fosters a sense of continuity and acceptance, encouraging diverse ways of living and thinking.
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www.architecturaldigest.com