Through the creation of Currents, we’ve had the opportunity to meet the design world’s most ardent creators and tastemakers, each with unique sensibilities and perspectives. In our fall issue of Currents, we met with Bessie and Oliver Corral who created the lifestyle brand Arjé together in 2017. Inspired by a lifetime of travel, careers in fashion and a devotion to interiors, every detail from their wardrobe to the furnishings and even their dinner menu feels singular and inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle.
"Arjé is more than a brand…we see it as a destination where thoughtful curation meets Mediterranean inspired living,” said Bessie and Oliver. While their New York apartment initially served as their studio, showroom and living space, it was always their goal to align the style of their home with the essence of their brand. What began as a humble redesign project centered on creating a beautiful kitchen archway turned into a transformative renovation that lasted 18 months. Take a tour of their stunning apartment and learn about the design process for their Arjé home.
A Slice of the Mediterranean in New York City
To bring their unique vision to life, Bessie and Oliver took on all of the renovations themselves, embracing the challenges and learning along the way. "The thrill of learning, doing and achieving was an incredible feeling," said Bessie. "We lived in the space throughout the renovation process, which made our days physically demanding. Our unwavering goal throughout was to create a space that exuded warmth and transported anyone who entered to the Mediterranean, offering a special sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City."
The archway in their kitchen was inspired by a desire to bring more light and openness into the once closed-off space. "We have always been drawn to the beauty and organic flow that arches provide," they said. "They have a way of adding softness to a space whilst creating a natural frame." With the archway complete, natural light now flows into the kitchen, brightening the space and creating a more inviting atmosphere. Their Cia Matte Black Smart Faucet also complements the overall aesthetic by mirroring the arched lines of their kitchen design. "We wanted a faucet that would enhance the sense of flow and harmony within the space. The Cia caught our attention because of its elegant and sleek design," said Bessie.
But the Cia faucet wasn’t the only Moen piece that played a role in the design of their home. The couple used a stone-colored plaster finish in their ensuite bath that seamlessly flowed from the shower to the walls and the floor, and they chose a wall-mounted brushed gold Colinet faucet as the bathroom’s centerpiece. "The warm tones of the gold fixtures added the finishing touch to the space and created a focal point," Bessie said. "Plumbing fixtures are an essential part of the overall aesthetic and functionality of a space. They have the power to elevate the design and add a sense of cohesiveness and harmony."
Through their creative collaboration, Bessie and Oliver created a one-of-a-kind home filled with custom furniture pieces and décor that encompass the beauty and warmth of the Mediterranean. If you’re looking to experience a taste of the Mediterranean in your home, enjoy Bessie and Oliver’s rustic mussels.
Bessie and Oliver’s Mediterranean Mussels
- 1 ½ lbs mussels
- 1 or 2 squid based on size
- 1 dozen cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- ½ medium onion
- 1 small bunch of cilantro
- ½ cup tomato puree
- ¼ cup of white wine
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small dry chili
- Sourdough bread for dipping
Step 1
Prep your seafood ingredients by cleaning the mussels and squid with fresh water. Remove the legs from the squid and discard, slicing the body of the squid into rings.
Step 2
Dice the onion and cut the cherry tomatoes into halves. Peel the garlic and smash each clove.
Step 3
Add the olive oil to a large, lidded pot and place on high heat. Add garlic and onions and bring to a boil.
Step 4
Add the squid. Once cooked, add the halved tomatoes and stir well. Cover the pot and let cook for 5 minutes with the lid on, maintaining high heat.
Step 5
Add mussels and wine, stirring well to mix. Cover pot and cook for 3 minutes. Stir again and add tomato purée. Cover and cook for 4 minutes. While cooking, slice sourdough bread and toast in the oven.
Step 6
Remove lid and stir pot well. Add in full cilantro leaves, stems removed. Crumble or smash the dried chili with your hands and add to pot. Serve hot with toasted bread and enjoy!
Shop your favorite looks from the fall edition of Currents.
