Orlando Diaz-Azcuy

Did you know that one of the great interior designers in the world is based right here in San Francisco? Orlando-Diaz Azcuy opened his office in 1987 (a second office was opened in New York in 2001), but has designed some of the most exquisite penthouses, residences, beach-side retreats and major corporate headquarters throughout the world.

Whenever his work appears in a design magazine, it’s always a delight to study the photographs (and to actually visit one of the homes he has worked on, to see that it’s just as beautiful in person as in photos, is a real treat.)

But what a thrill it is to know that there is finally an entire book — and quite a big one! — that brings together some of the most important projects from throughout Diaz-Azcuy’s career!

“Orlando Diaz-Azcuy,” by Diane Dorrans Saeks

Written by the true authority on West Coast design, Diane Dorrans Saeks, “Orlando Diaz-Azcuy” (published this month by Rizzoli New York) is a treasure trove of photos and insight that will inspire anyone who cares about beautiful interiors.

As a friend of Diaz-Azcuy’s for 25 years, no one could have written this book better than Diane Dorrans Saeks, who with a keen eye and wide range of references, is able to give the reader the best possible tour throughout his interiors. My favorites are probably the Nob Hill apartment of Andrew and Francoise Skurman, and the gorgeous apartment he did at Robert A.M. Stern’s 15 Central Park West in New York. When you see the 15CPW photos, you’ll know what modern luxury is all about.

I predict this will be Ms. Saeks’ best-selling book yet (previous bestsellers include Hollywood Style, Santa Barbara Living, Michael S. Smith: Elements of Style, and Palm Springs Living, which was reviewed here.) No one in interior design, architecture, real estate, fashion or even San Francisco history will want to be without a copy.

• Photo: Jonathan Costello Photography [cosmophoto.com]
• Further Information: Orlando Diaz-Azcuy [odada.net]
• Further Information: Diane Dorrans Saeks [dianedorranssaeks.com]
• Book: ” Orlando Diaz-Azcuy” [Rizzoli New York, 2009; 256 pages; $60.00]
• Review Text: Damion Matthews