Best Residential Design: Eyoh Design
We are proud to announce our 2020 Tastemaker Awards winner for best residential design: Eyoh Design. Learn more about managing partners Dustin and Alex Morris and their award-winning design.
Photo Credit: Willem-Dirk du Toit
Wayfair Professional members shared hundreds of stunning images from their portfolios in hopes of impressing four industry-leading judges to become our 2020 Tastemakers. Taking the top prize for best residential design is Eyoh Design, a boutique custom residential design firm led by managing partners Dustin and Alex Morris. The Morrises believe a custom home is an expression of how people view life, including what is most important to them, what they spend their time doing, and how they do it. This residential design was inspired by their clients’ lifestyle and journey, with Dustin Morris noting that the clients love to cook and entertain guests. When judge Hadley Keller saw this submission, she instantly appreciated its beauty.
“The way the designer created such an inviting space, made use of the juxtaposition of indoors and out, and blended unexpected materials really caught my attention,” Keller said. “This room proves that creative design can overcome any hurdle in a project, be that low light, small space, or lack of a wall for a traditional fireplace. I love seeing innovative solutions used in a way that makes such an impact on lifestyle.”
Q&A with Dustin & Alex:
We got to discuss this winning project with Dustin and Alex. Here’s what they had to say:
Can you tell us a little about yourselves and your company?
We are a South African married couple. We went to architecture school together and moved out to the United States. We started our own business about five years ago as a full-service residential studio. We take care of everything for our clients including conception, city permits, and interior design. We strive to provide our customers with the whole package and make their home feel cohesive. “Eyoh” is a South African slang word that is an expression for “oh wow!” and we came up with this name because this is how we want our clients to react when they see the final design.
Can you describe this particular project and how you went about completing it?
This is one of the first homes we did. The clients are private people, so we wanted to create a sanctuary for them. With this in mind, we crafted an oasis by designing the bedroom to go directly into the courtyard and outdoor dining area. This created a home with fluid boundaries that blur the lines between different rooms and areas, but could also be isolated if needed. We set it up so light pours in from the morning sunrise because we love filling spaces with natural light. We always make sure our clients play a big role in the design process, so we kept them involved every step of the way.
What feedback have you received from the clients?
The clients were blown away. This was the first time they had a home designed and built for how they live. When they have guests over, the visitors love the space because everything flows together with one vision.
How did Wayfair Professional or your Account Manager help with this project?
We have had three Account Managers and have loved all of them! No matter the scale of the project, they’re always very responsive and ready to help.
