Splendiferous Interiors: Historic Homes in the Great Northwest

The Nashville Symphony Show House 2015, presented by Castle Homes, exemplifies original architecture, quality craftsmanship, and innovative design, making it a notable destination for those interested in home aesthetics. Located on Hillsboro Road, the home showcases Southern contemporary folk style, drawing inspiration from 19th-century farmhouses. This 5,500-square-foot residence features three bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, and a three-car garage, with historic detailing integrated throughout its design. The collaborative efforts of Wade Weissmann Architecture, Alan Looney of Castle Homes, Julie Couch Interiors, Mark Simmons Interiors, and Rozanne Jackson for The Iron Gate brought this house to fruition. Every element, from the four-board fencing to the exterior siding, was meticulously chosen to blend vintage appeal with modern functionality. Upon entering, a sculptural staircase, designed by Wade Weissmann, defines the ground floor, separating a small study from the den and dining area. The living room, decorated by Mark Simmons Interiors, combines contemporary and traditional elements, featuring an oriental rug with muted gold and blue tones and French doors that provide natural light. The dining room table, crafted from reclaimed floorboards of the Municipal Auditorium, pays homage to Nashville’s music history. The study, located off the foyer, is adorned with vintage etchings and museum-quality accents. The kitchen, designed by Caroline Weigel of Castle Homes, presents a striking balance of polished and unrefined aesthetics. It includes white paint, stainless steel appliances, and rich timbers. A custom island made from reclaimed white oak wood from a Wisconsin milk barn serves as a central feature, reinforcing the home’s arcadian theme. The kitchen seamlessly connects to the dining area and den, ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the main living space. A tiled backsplash adds texture to the predominantly white design. The master bedroom, designed by Julie Couch Interiors, is a tranquil space characterized by pale tones and delicate textures. It features a handblown glass chandelier, a four-poster bed with a cowhide sofa, and modern art that blends contemporary decor with traditional furniture. The adjoining master bathroom, designed to resemble a sunroom, is filled with natural light and includes a lavish bathtub and a his-and-hers vanity. The upstairs area includes a study, conceived by Rozanne Jackson of The Iron Gate, offering scenic views and a rustic ambiance with twin couches. This study leads to two bedrooms: one designed for a boy, featuring earthy grays and eclectic totems like vintage records, and another for a girl, decorated in cool whites with fine art and a plush bed. Each room is designed to maximize space and aesthetic appeal. The lounge, expertly designed by Julie Couch Interiors, provides an urbane yet rustic space. Black-and-white prints of the Nashville Symphony contrast with a contemporary desk, creating a balanced aesthetic. The back of the house is designed for entertainment, with ample seating on a covered porch and gravel patio overlooking Nashville’s wooded landscape. The exterior, clad in fiber cement siding, mimics 19th-century materials while offering low maintenance, complemented by a durable metal roof. The Nashville Symphony Show House demonstrates how new construction can evoke a sense of history while incorporating modern amenities. #HomeDesign #SouthernStyle #ContemporaryFolk #ShowHouse #InteriorDesign #NashvilleHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #HistoricDetails #LuxuryInteriors

The article provides an intimate look into the Sunfish Lake home of antiques dealer Robert Riesberg and his wife, Christine Hartman, which doubles as both their residence and a by-appointment-only gallery for Riesberg's business. Their Federal-style house, built in 1925, is characterized by a blend of traditional design and warm hospitality, furnished with museum-quality 17th, 18th, and early 19th-century antiques, art, objects, and rugs. Riesberg, with over 50 years of experience, emphasizes buying pieces he would personally want to keep, noting that this passion drives his successful career. The home features a series of formal rooms, including a front parlor with a mahogany drum table, sideboard, and a 1760 cherry New England flip-top secretary desk, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Rosy Apple. A light-filled formal dining room and gallery, added by Riesberg, is used for parties and family gatherings, showcasing French Louis XV rococo console tables with rare brèche d’alep marble from approximately 1760. The exterior of the home maintains its Federal-style architecture, while the kitchen, though the least formal space, is adorned with 18th-century Windsor chairs and Delft tiles depicting manganese figures from the same period. Creative design solutions are evident throughout, such as a small closet ingeniously converted into a walk-in bar with a Dutch door. The sunporch, featuring terrazzo floors and shelves filled with Delftware, opens to a grape arbor, offering a serene space. The fireplace mantel and paneling were custom-designed based on Connecticut fireplace patterns, symmetrically decorated with blue-and-white 18th-century Delftware. The central hallway boasts ash and walnut flooring modeled after traditional French parquetry, complemented by 19th-century oil landscapes, a late 18th-century portrait, and a Regency commode from around 1710. Riesberg’s study, designed with Connecticut inspiration, features millwork painted in a custom green and houses a substantial collection of books and catalogs on antiques, art, landscaping, and architecture. The article also includes five tips from Robert Riesberg and Christine Hartman for incorporating antiques into one's home. These tips encourage individuals to discover their personal taste by visiting various sources like museums and antique shops, and building a file of preferred items. They suggest taking inventory of existing belongings to identify pieces that don't align with one's aesthetic or function, thereby creating space for new acquisitions. The couple advocates for broadening one's scope beyond furnishing a room strictly by a singular period, encouraging the mixing of contemporary furnishings with antique gems to create a space that reflects individual taste and personality. Riesberg advises understanding the craftsmanship of antiques, particularly those made before the machine age (pre-1840), to appreciate their design details and value. Finally, they recommend taking a slow approach to building a collection, emphasizing that a few beautiful, well-chosen pieces are more valuable than a multitude of mediocre ones, and that truly beautiful homes evolve in stages. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #FederalStyleHome #VintageDecor #HomeTours #LuxuryInteriors #CollectingAntiques

This article explores interior design and architectural styles prevalent in American homes approximately 100 years ago, coinciding with the country's entry into the Roaring '20s. This period marked a transition with a growing emphasis on interior design, blending various styles. For example, a home in upstate New York showcased rustic features alongside Colonial Revival furniture, indicating a mixture of aesthetic influences. The Arts and Crafts movement also left its mark, as seen in a 1916 writing desk, while other pieces, such as a chair, leaned closer to the Victorian period. Unique elements like patterned wood walls and chintz-patterned chairs were also noted, with chintz gaining broader popularity later. Dining rooms, such as one in Olean, New York, often featured Victorian-style tables complemented by cane-seat chairs, which became mass-produced and popular following the Industrial Revolution. Presidential homes also offered insights into the era's design. Sagamore Hill, Teddy Roosevelt's Queen Anne style home in Oyster Bay, New York, built in the 1890s, received electricity in 1918. It featured big game trophies, and while wallpaper was initially restricted due to toxic agents, it became more common after 1919. The home incorporated pine woodwork, cork tile flooring, and a Classical Revival mantelpiece in its Trophy Room. Roosevelt's library, famous for its mahogany woodwork and stained-glass windows, also exhibited the Queen Anne style. Colonial Revival homes, like the Franklin McFadden home in Radnor Valley Farm, Pennsylvania, showcased terraced gardens and elements of Greek Revival with their columns. This architectural movement, part of the Eclectic movement, aimed for precise renditions of earlier styles but began to wane by the 1960s. Insights into construction and living conditions were also provided by examples such as the radio operators' residence at the U.S. Navy Yard in Norfolk, Virginia, and the four-family quarters built for Panama Canal workers in the Canal Zone, which featured plate rails and decorative swag. The French Colonial-style Hotel Aspinwall on Taboga Island, initially built for canal workers, later became a vacation resort before its disappearance. Post-World War I Europe saw refugees returning to simple brick homes, a common sight in war-torn areas like the Somme region of France. American soldiers returning from the war brought French architectural influences back to the U.S., notably seen in Jacqueline Kennedy's remodeling of the White House. Wallpaper, particularly designs resembling William Morris patterns, was popular, as evidenced in a photo of composer Sidney Hormer's family with their hand-carved dining room table. Another historical residence highlighted was Bullock Hall in Roswell, Georgia, Teddy Roosevelt's mother's birthplace, a Greek Revival home from 1839. The early 20th century also saw the rise of bungalows, accommodating the working class and those seeking summer retreats, with some Adirondack homes showing early bungalow characteristics. Log cabins, like one in the Adirondacks, sometimes retained bark on their pine logs for a rustic look, though this presented construction challenges. Rustic vacation homes in New York often featured stone fireplaces and vertical wood paneling. Interior design also embraced "simple elegance" with Arts and Crafts furniture, border wallpaper, and distinctive lamps. Cozy cabins frequently incorporated natural elements, such as knotty pine paneling. The Rumford fireplace, characterized by its shallow design to reflect heat, was also a notable feature, often paired with beadboard paneling. Finally, the Maltese Cross Cabin, Teddy Roosevelt's former residence in North Dakota, demonstrated dovetail square log construction using ponderosa pine logs and wooden floors, showcasing an example of early American cabin design. #HomeDesignHistory #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyles #Early20thCenturyHomes #QueenAnneStyle #ColonialRevival #ArtsAndCraftsMovement #RusticHomeDecor #BungalowStyle #HistoricalHomes

Christina Roughan of Roughan Interiors embarked on an exciting redesign of a historic New York country house, built in 1900 by Charles Wetmore, a prominent NYC architect. This grand English-style manor, set on 20 acres with original horse stables converted into a barn, presented a rewarding project. The clients, knowledgeable in design, art, and furniture, sought a warm, inviting, and child-friendly home that honored its elegance and history, reflecting their family's lifestyle. The entry was designed to make a strong first impression. Christina incorporated the clients’ favorite color, blue, through a focal point artwork, a patterned rug, and antique blue and white jars. Warmth was introduced with a walnut table and camel leather stools, exemplifying happiness within a blue environment. The living room, described as a ballroom, features a custom Venetian plaster ceiling that adds emotional significance and grandeur. With a semi-domed 22-foot-high ceiling and four sets of French doors overlooking the gardens, it evokes a relaxed yet opulent atmosphere. Design details include a custom bookcase with spine colors incorporating the blue, soft gray, and ivory palette, and a year-in-the-making carpet echoing these tones with hints of silver. A flexible seating arrangement around the fireplace, comprising a sofa, armchairs, and a chaise, ensures elegance and comfort. The kitchen's design prioritized timelessness, featuring a classic country style with Carrera marble countertops and a large stainless steel range cooker for a modern twist. A dining area was integrated into the kitchen, serving as a central space for family gatherings, with mid-century Laverne T Chairs in whisky leather and walnut Michael Smith head chairs adding texture against the marble and pale walls. For the dining room, the goal was to create a light-filled space. The room underwent a full renovation, including new millwork, a fireplace surround, and gloss paint. Modern traditional furnishings introduced color with lavender and moss green accents complementing off-white and soft gray schemes. The family room, originally the dining room, was strategically relocated near the kitchen for convenience with young children. It combines oak bookcases with pops of color, fun art, and modern lighting, maintaining an elevated feel suitable for entertaining. The main bedroom balances masculine and feminine elements with a palette of camel, sage, and brown tones, wool sateen drapery, and rattan chairs for added texture. Guest bedrooms were designed to be distinct and inviting; one twin bed guestroom features rose rattan walnut burl headboards, which maximize space while adding texture and depth. The white bathroom offers a light and fresh scheme with a practical, elegant period-style double basin vanity. The extensive project, which included a guest house and pool house, took approximately two years. The pool house renovation was designed to complement the main house and guest house, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the property. The overall interior design, executed by Roughan Interiors and photographed by Jane Beiles, successfully transformed the historic New York country house into a refined yet comfortable family home. #HistoricHome #CountryHouse #InteriorDesign #NewYorkRealEstate #RoughanInteriors #TimelessDesign #LuxuryHomes #HomeRenovation #FamilyLiving

This article highlights the most notable Western-inspired interior designs featured throughout 2021, showcasing a variety of styles from rugged ranch aesthetics to luxurious lodge interiors. The selections emphasize the unique comforts and artistic elements found in spaces across the American West, including Texas, Montana, New Mexico, and Colorado. The compilation serves as an annual review, presenting diverse examples of Western interior design that resonated with the publication's appreciation for authentic and elevated home environments. Each featured interior space offers distinct characteristics, whether through its architectural style, the integration of custom art, or its harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. One of the highlighted designs, titled "Escape Plan" from January 2021, showcases rural retreats globally, presented as a comprehensive guide to secluded getaways. This feature focuses on the tranquility and unique design elements of remote properties, offering inspiration for those seeking refuge and distinctive home aesthetics. The photography accompanying this section provides visual insights into these diverse escapes. "Viva La Bandana," from February/March 2021, explores innovative applications of the classic cowboy bandana in home decor. This segment presents fresh collections from leading decorators, demonstrating creative ways to incorporate this iconic Western motif into contemporary interiors. It offers new perspectives on traditional Western patterns and textures. April 2021's "Old World Charm" section delves into a new house situated outside Jackson, Wyoming. This design integrates European antiques and reclaimed materials, imparting a sense of time-honored tradition and character to a modern dwelling. The architectural firm JLF Architects and photographer Audrey Hall collaborated on this project, bringing an aged elegance to the Western landscape. "Ranch Style Redefined," featured in May/June 2021, presents a sprawling family compound in South Texas. This design offers a sophisticated interpretation of the traditional hunting lodge, blending rustic elements with refined luxury. The imagery provided by Clay Grier captures the elevated aesthetic of this expansive property. The "Where The Art Is" segment from July 2021 focuses on art collecting and curation within Western homes. Leaders from three interior design firms share their expert tips and secrets for acquiring and displaying art, illustrating how art can significantly enhance and personalize an interior space. Kibler & Kirch, with photography by Audrey Hall, contribute to this discussion on integrating art into home design. "Well Connected," appearing in August/September 2021, spotlights the work of Colorado-based CCY Architects through a new book. This feature explores the firm's design philosophy and collaborative approach, showcasing ten distinct residences that exemplify their architectural style and integration with the Rocky Mountain environment. The Monacelli Press provides the photographic context for these designs. October 2021's "Better Than Ever" details the transformation of a Colorado vacation house. This project involved significant improvements, turning the property into a modern mountain retreat for a Texas couple and their extended family. Photographer Ric Stovall, from Stovall Studio, captures the essence of this revitalized space. Finally, "Spruce Up The Season," from November/December 2021, provides insights into holiday decorating and entertaining. Interior designers offer advice on creating a festive atmosphere, focusing on seasonal decor that brightens homes during the holidays. Lisa Flood's photography illustrates these festive design concepts. Collectively, these selections from 2021 underscore the rich diversity within Western interior design, highlighting both traditional and contemporary approaches that honor the region's heritage while embracing modern comforts and artistic expression. #WesternInteriors #HomeDesign #RanchStyle #LodgeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #ArtCollecting #ArchitecturalDesign #HolidayDecorating

This article details the extensive renovation of the historic Miles Costin House in downtown Wilmington by homeowners and interior designer Paula Warren and her husband, Chan Warren. Purchased in 2020, the nearly 7,000-square-foot, four-story Italianate-style home, built in 1855 by architect James F. Post, underwent a complete transformation across all 22 rooms. The Warrens moved from Washington, D.C., seeking a warmer climate and a vibrant town, but initially underestimated the scale of the project, especially the challenges of restoring a historic property. The renovation began with the basement, a laborious process that involved stripping everything down to the dirt, taking almost a year to complete. This space was converted into a cow-themed Airbnb named 'Steer on Dock'. Following the basement, the couple tackled the main house, where Paula's design philosophy of eclectic style came to life. She blended bold colors, fun patterns, contemporary fixtures, and unique vintage finds to modernize the once-dated dwelling while honoring its historical grandeur. Key design choices include painting the dining room and parlor in Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore, while the kitchen features White Dove walls and Chantilly Lace cabinets and trim. Paula, known for her frugal and secondhand shopping approach, sourced many pieces from local estate sales, Facebook Marketplace, and Paper Wood Vintage, valuing the character and quality of older items. Modern fixtures were acquired from Capitol Lighting, Shades of Light, and Anthropologie. The kitchen was significantly updated with leathered Taj Mahal quartzite counters by Marmolite Granite & Marble, new pulls, and redesigned layout to incorporate a functional island. Architectural details of the Miles Costin House, such as the grand center staircase spanning three floors, detailed crown molding, thick paned windows, and Greek Revival fireplaces, were preserved. The house is also notable for having one of Wilmington's few mansard roofs and a unique side piazza with floor-length walkout windows, along with distinctive 'come-and-go' front porch stairs. These historical elements were integrated with contemporary design choices, such as curvilinear light fixtures, to create a harmonious blend of old and new. Further renovations included Chan’s second-floor office, which was wallpapered in Phillip Jeffries grasscloth (Manila Hemp in navy). The five bathrooms were updated with creative tile layouts, wall-mounted faucets, and modern fixtures, with four of them being completely gutted. The primary bathroom, formerly a small bedroom, was transformed into a luxurious suite with a fireplace, cappuccino station, and flat-screen TV, featuring Tesoro Bianco marble vanity tops. The primary bedroom boasts a patterned Scalamandre Raphael wallpaper by Sandberg. Children's rooms and guest rooms on the third floor also received fresh paint, such as Cedar Path and Aspen Skies by Benjamin Moore. Exterior restorations included the front porch, side veranda, back deck, and a roof replacement. After two years, the Warrens, along with their French bulldog Atlas, now enjoy their uniquely restored home and its vibrant downtown Wilmington location. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #EclecticStyle #WilmingtonNC #HomeDecor #MilesCostinHouse #DIYRenovation

This article explores design takeaways from three new and forthcoming books by Southern tastemakers: *A Welcoming Elegance* by Suzanne Rheinstein, *McAlpine: Romantic Modernism* by Bobby McAlpine, and *The Joy of Home* by Ashley Gilbreath. The author emphasizes the visual appeal of design books, often focusing on images before text to glean inspiration. Suzanne Rheinstein's *A Welcoming Elegance* showcases her ability to blend New Orleans influences with Californian living, creating a distinctive Southern aesthetic. Key takeaways from her work include embracing color confidently, particularly in kitchens, and utilizing and displaying silver pieces creatively rather than storing them away. Rheinstein also demonstrates that a stylish libation setup does not require a dedicated bar cart and can be integrated into various spaces. Bobby McAlpine's *McAlpine: Romantic Modernism* highlights his emotionally attuned architecture, originating from Alabama. His book combines poetic language with his signature visual style. Notable design tips from McAlpine's book include the addition of Dutch doors for instant charm, the use of bold stone choices in kitchens to function as modern art, and the treatment of porches as extensions of interior rooms, deserving the same attention to personal style and decor. Ashley Gilbreath's *The Joy of Home*, co-authored with Alice Welsh Doyle, reflects her mutual appreciation for color and feminine details. The book emphasizes the importance of infusing joy into home design. Practical advice from Gilbreath’s work includes creating entire rooms dedicated to fun, mixing styles with abandon—combining traditional with modern or formal with informal elements—and the timeless appeal and continued relevance of secret bars within home design. The article summarizes these insights, offering a condensed guide to contemporary Southern interior design principles.

Federal architecture, a grand and influential style in American history, emerged after the Revolutionary War, roughly spanning from 1780 to 1830. It is recognized as the American interpretation of neoclassical architecture, drawing significant inspiration from ancient Roman and Greek construction, as well as the earlier Georgian styles. Michele Iapicco, Vice President of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art Texas Chapter, notes that Federal architecture is more refined and graceful compared to the heavier Georgian buildings. Its interior design often features oval-shaped rooms, intricate plasterwork, and elegant mantels, all emphasizing balance and subtlety. Key characteristics of Federal architecture include a strong emphasis on symmetry and geometric order. Exteriors typically feature smooth brick or clapboard finishes and low-pitched or flat roofs, sometimes concealed by a balustrade. Entrances are distinctive, often incorporating elliptical or fan-shaped windows above the front door, along with Palladian windows and narrow sidelights designed to maximize natural light. Decorative details are delicate and refined, commonly showcasing motifs like swags, urns, and thin pilasters, many inspired by the neoclassical designs of Robert Adam. The White House in Washington, D.C., is cited as a prime example, embodying the style’s symmetry and refined details. The article highlights three distinct examples of Federal-style properties. The first is an inherited family home in Westchester, NY, designed in the early 20th century in the Federal Revival style. Interior designers Carol Flanagan and Megan Flanagan Tompkins of Flanagan Interiors undertook its redesign, aiming to create a traditional yet livable space that respects the building's historical aesthetic. They emphasized the elegance derived from features like bow windows, which reflect the elliptical shapes characteristic of Federal architecture, the brick facade, and the symmetry in rooms. The designers introduced modern additions like a kitchen, family room, and mudroom for casual living, ensuring they blended seamlessly with the original formal spaces. The abundance of natural light in many rooms, often from three sides, and the views of the park-like setting were noted as favorite aspects of the project. The second example is a classical mansion in Richmond, Virginia, built in 1814. This building, designed by Alexander Parris in a simplified early Federal style, serves as the oldest occupied governor's house in America and exemplifies classical architectural principles. Thalia Toha, Architectural Historian & Geography Exhibit Designer at Lafayette History Museum, explains that Federal architecture often distinguishes itself by what it excludes from previous styles. For instance, it typically simplifies the grand portico entrance of neoclassical designs, opting for a simpler two-columned portico. Regional adaptations also emerged, with brick being common in Federal architecture in the South and clapboard more prevalent in the Northeast. The third illustration is a family home in Sudbury, Massachusetts, dating back to 1790. Interior designer Linda Weisberg of LW Interiors sympathetically redesigned this authentic Federal-style residence. Weisberg describes Federal architecture as classic and enduring, characterized by its grace, symmetry, elegance, and detailed interior and exterior moldings. She notes that the style, initiated by British architects in the mid-18th century and influenced by Greek and Roman architecture, never goes out of fashion. The redesign integrated a mix of antique and comfortable modern furnishings, ensuring antique pieces were sturdy rather than delicate. Traditional motifs, such as damask wallpaper in the living room and main bedroom, and William Morris wallpaper in the study, were incorporated to maintain a cohesive and sympathetic aesthetic. Art relevant to the clients, such as a heron motif inspired by a pond on the property, was also included, making the home feel personal and connected to its surroundings. This article emphasizes that Federal architecture remains a deeply historic, refined, and influential style within America’s broad architectural landscape. #FederalArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalHistory #NeoclassicalStyle #GeorgianInfluence #HistoricHomes #ClassicalArchitecture #HomeRenovation #AmericanArchitecture

The article details the creation of Whimsy Valley, the Western North Carolina mountain retreat of photographer and historic preservationist Perry Vaile. Vaile and her husband embarked on a long journey to find and build their dream mountain home, ultimately settling on a property near Burnsville after a previous attempt in Chimney Rock was thwarted by a landslide specialist's warning, which proved prescient when the property was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. This experience highlighted the importance of thorough environmental assessments before purchasing land for construction. With the new property, Vaile collaborated with local contractor Chris Jarrett over two years to construct a home that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Her background in historic preservation influenced the architectural choices, such as incorporating bark siding as a nod to late 1800s architect Henry Bacon, who popularized this style in Linville, North Carolina. This design decision aimed to give the new build vernacular sensitivity and integrate it respectfully into the region's architectural history. The interior design reflects Vaile's photography career, lending her an eye for creating visually compelling spaces. She combined antique pieces, diverse patterns, and a carefully curated color palette to achieve a timeless yet whimsical atmosphere. The living room features vaulted ceilings, providing a sense of grandeur and allowing for the inclusion of a stained-glass window sourced from a decommissioned church, which casts magical light when illuminated by the south-facing sun. The kitchen is designed to evoke warmth and character, channeling an "eccentric grandma" aesthetic. A William Morris patterned backsplash complements soft blue cupboards, adding texture and personality to the space. The master bedroom is built around a blue patterned wallpaper, inspired by an inn Vaile photographed, and features antique doors from an architectural salvage center in New Orleans. For her daughters' bedroom, Vaile aimed for a playful yet chic English bed and breakfast feel, incorporating gingham curtains and wallpaper from House of Hackney, with wood paneling completed by Vaile and her husband. Outdoor elements were also carefully considered. Vaile, who always desired to live near water, created an artificial stream that mimics natural rock formations and winds through the yard, providing a soothing soundscape and a scenic place to relax. The master bathroom features a copper tub as a focal point and an antique dresser with a marble countertop and stone sink, a resourceful find from Facebook Marketplace. The home also includes a wraparound deck equipped with rocking chairs, designed to offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The property is further enlivened by six miniature ponies, which roam the grounds, adding to the idyllic, storybook ambiance of Whimsy Valley, where Vaile's mother also resides in a nearby cabin, fostering a nostalgic, close-knit family environment. #MountainRetreat #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #WesternNorthCarolina #WhimsyValley #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHome #OutdoorLiving

This article highlights the extensive renovation of a historic 1914 home located in Nashville's Waverly neighborhood, undertaken by Sara Ray Interior Design and Allard Ward Architects. The homeowners, enthusiasts of mid-century furnishings, historic architecture, and houseplants, aimed to create a residence that seamlessly blends its historical integrity with contemporary design elements. The 3,520-square-foot home, featuring three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, underwent a comprehensive overhaul that included structural repairs, and updates to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and modern functionality. The renovation involved gutting the kitchen and all bathrooms, replacing all surfaces such as flooring, tile, and cabinetry, and installing new light and plumbing fixtures. A significant two-story addition was constructed at the rear of the house, which now accommodates a primary bathroom upstairs and a screened-in porch, mudroom, and family room on the main level. One of the key structural changes was the removal of a wall on the main floor to create an open and flowing living and dining area, catering to a more contemporary lifestyle while preserving the home's original character. Externally, the home received a fresh coat of paint and an added outdoor living space complete with a fire pit, enhancing its curb appeal and providing additional areas for relaxation and entertainment. The architectural style of the home, shingle-style reminiscent of the Craftsman movement, aligns with the City Beautiful Movement that shaped the Historic Waverly neighborhood with its curved streets and lush gardens. This historical context was carefully considered during the design process. A notable discovery during the renovation was a previously hidden fireplace in the family room, which was uncovered and transformed into a striking focal point. The homeowners' desire to maintain original features was also evident in the kitchen, where exposed brick from an original fireplace was preserved and highlighted with custom brass shelving. The kitchen was completely reimagined with custom green cabinetry, a custom brass-clad range hood, and a custom butcher block island, blending historical elements with modern craftsmanship. The home's layout was reconfigured to optimize flow while respecting its historical integrity. The entry remained intact, with formal living and dining rooms on either side, though the dining room is now utilized as an office. The family room and a new dining area were opened up to create a more modern, open-concept space. The kitchen remained in its original location but was extended as part of the new addition. The main level also includes a guest bedroom, guest bathroom, powder room, and mudroom. Upstairs, there is another guest bedroom and bath, a laundry room, and the primary suite, with the primary bathroom being part of the new addition. The primary bathroom features antique-inspired tile flooring and a refinished clawfoot tub, serving as a central design element. The two-year renovation, completed in Fall 2023, successfully created a warm, inviting sanctuary that reflects the homeowners' personalities and passions, achieving a perfect fusion of past and present. #HistoricHome #NashvilleRealEstate #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorfulAccents #SaraRayInteriorDesign #CraftsmanStyle #MidCenturyModern

This article provides an in-depth look at a unique open-concept living and dining room located in an 1840s rowhouse in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia. The design, executed by Phoebe Schuh of PS & Daughters, successfully integrates historical elements with modern aesthetics, creating a family-friendly and livable space. The primary design goal was to create a mixed-use area suitable for both family life and entertaining. One notable feature discussed is the use of salvaged large interior doors, which were originally from a demolished church in the neighborhood. These doors contribute to the room's eclectic charm and historical depth. The article highlights a bold design choice: a dark grey accent wall painted with Valspar's Mark Twain Grey. This decision was made to enhance a large print with an oversized white frame, making the artwork 'pop' against the darker background. This illustrates how strategic use of color can dramatically impact the presentation of art within a space. The house, built in the 1840s, features original rustic wood beams and flooring, which were intentionally left unrestored to preserve their character. To prevent the exposed wood beams from feeling overwhelming or making the tall ceilings appear lower, simple Italian light fixtures were chosen. This decision maintained a youthful and livable ambiance, avoiding the heaviness that a more elaborate chandelier might have introduced. A significant design victory involved the fireplace. Initially covered with multiple layers of lavender paint, the entire brick fireplace and a hidden square tile medallion from the 1840s were meticulously restored. The paint was removed to reveal the original tile work, adding significant warmth and historical authenticity to the room. Further enhancing the fireplace, an 1840s wooden mantelpiece was salvaged from Architectural Antiques Exchange. This piece, with its rustic yet clean lines, provided a perfect finishing touch that integrated seamlessly with the room's eclectic style. To define different zones within the large open-concept space, a custom sisal area rug was used to delineate the living area, creating a distinct zone for seating, conversation, and television viewing. The fireplace naturally divides the space, while an oversized window and a modern chandelier contribute to the spacious feel of the dining area. The biggest design challenge was harmonizing the eclectic art and furniture with the 1840s townhouse architecture without creating an imbalance. This was achieved through careful paint choices and the selection of clean, minimal furniture, which helped maintain a light and accessible feel throughout the space. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #NorthernLiberties #PhiladelphiaRealEstate #HistoricHome #EclecticDesign #RowhouseRenovation

Edith Wharton, a prominent American writer of the Gilded Age, is widely recognized for her literary achievements, including being the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for fiction. However, her influence extends beyond literature into the realm of interior design, as explored in her first prose book, "The Decoration of Houses" (1897), co-authored with Beaux-Arts architect Ogden Codman Jr. This book is considered a foundational text in modern design, advocating for principles that prioritize proportion, harmony, and utility over the ornate and often vulgar displays common in late Victorian aesthetics. Wharton's keen observations of domestic spaces are evident in her novels, where she often uses interiors to reflect the social standing and character of her protagonists. For instance, the "highly-varnished" rooms of Undine Spragg in "The Custom of the Country" and the "wilderness of pink damask" belonging to Norma Hatch in "The House of Mirth" serve as critiques of the nouveau riche's conspicuous consumption and lack of true aesthetic discernment. These literary depictions underscore the core arguments presented in "The Decoration of Houses," which criticized the "gilded age of decoration" and aimed to elevate house decoration from what Wharton and Codman perceived as confusion and vulgarity. The treatise outlines three main principles. Firstly, it emphasizes that "proportion is the good breeding of architecture," asserting that the essence of a style lies in its handling of proportion rather than its use of ornament. Drawing inspiration from European aesthetics, the authors advocate for harmony and symmetry across all aspects of domestic architecture, from furniture to walls and ceilings. This was a radical departure from the prevailing trend of superficial ornamentation. Secondly, Wharton and Codman argue for the importance of consulting historical models, particularly from Italian, French, and English architecture post-1500, to restore dignity and taste to interior design. This approach aligns with the ideas of esteemed architects like Charles Follen McKim, who sought to revive classical architectural principles. Thirdly, the book offers practical advice that remains relevant today, even for those with limited budgets. It discourages the use of dark colors in small rooms and suggests a gradual ascent of color from a dark floor to a light ceiling. The authors advocate for sensible purchasing habits, recommending the acquisition of a few superior pieces over many of middling quality and advising against buying items out of proportion with the rooms they are intended for. This ethos of simplicity, order, and architectural integrity resonates with contemporary design movements that favor clean lines and uncluttered spaces. Wharton's philosophy of domestic aesthetics also informed her philanthropic efforts, particularly during World War I, where her work with "The Book of the Homeless" and her establishment of homes for displaced soldiers and refugees highlighted her belief in the restorative power of the home. Her life and literary work consistently demonstrate that the care of the home is intrinsically linked to the care of the soul. The enduring relevance of "The Decoration of Houses" is underscored by its continuous presence in print and its renewed appeal in an era where domestic environments are increasingly recognized for their impact on well-being and mindfulness. #EdithWharton #InteriorDesign #TheDecorationOfHouses #AmericanLiterature #ArchitecturalHistory #GildedAge #DomesticAesthetics #OgdenCodmanJr #DesignPrinciples

The renovation of a historic Victorian Italianate home in Fayette County, Kentucky, showcases a successful blend of old and new design elements, transforming it into one of the world's best homes. The property, built in 1889, holds sentimental value for one of its owners, having been a family home for years. The objective of the renovation was to update the interiors while preserving the original charm and features of the house. To achieve this balance, the homeowners enlisted the expertise of Lexington-based interior designer Isabel Ladd, who collaborated with architects Gibson Taylor Thompson and builders Fox Hill. Ladd's design philosophy, termed "curated maximalism," emphasizes a layered, "mix-don’t-match" aesthetic. This approach involved the thoughtful combination of exquisite prints, colors, and textures through wallpapers and textiles, creating a unique and personal feel throughout the home. The dining room, designed for formal entertaining, features an updated Victorian aesthetic. It incorporates Schumacher's Hollyhock Pyne wallpaper, with the same pattern extending to the dining chair seats, and a Selamat dining chairs and a Fibreworks Eclipse rug, all set against a curved wall and bay windows. Adjacent to the foyer, a cozy parlor serves as a formal living room. This space is centered around a family heirloom piano and an original fireplace. Contemporary pieces, such as a custom Charles Stewart Co. sofa upholstered in Fern Trellis by Cotton & Quill and a Selamat corner chair in Lansdale Bouquet by Schumacher, are harmoniously integrated with antique French bergere chairs and a vintage rug. The living room, part of a magnificent new open-plan addition, is designed to be the heart of the home, with exposed beams, bricks, and trusses. This area connects the family room, kitchen, and staircase. Ladd ensures continuity with the older sections of the house through carefully chosen artwork, a cohesive color palette, and a blend of antique and contemporary furnishings. Notable elements include art from Cross Gate Gallery, a Tilda light by Arteriors, floral chairs upholstered in Heather by Ferrick Mason, and a Fibreworks rug. In contrast to the more vibrant main living areas, a relaxed breakfast nook in the kitchen offers a change of mood. This space features neutral textures and organic materials, such as an Antibes light by Currey and a Domino rug from Fibreworks, complementing an antique table and chairs. The kitchen itself, with its views of the surrounding farmland, maintains a neutral and organic aesthetic with a soapstone countertop, embedded backsplash, and rattan counter stools, bridging the gap between vintage and new elements. The island pendants are Perennials by Regina Andrew, and the counter stools are Libby by Gabby. The entry foyer highlights the home's original features, particularly the decorative staircase. Two gallery walls adorned with unique frames set the tone for the collected and curated interior. A central foyer table, draped with a fringed tablecloth and accessorized with books and treasured items, grounds the space. Art and framing are from Cross Gate Gallery, the Zira rug and Neygi stair runner are by Fibreworks, and the tablecloth fabric is Malaya by Quadrille. The primary bedroom features a contemporary four-poster bed from Bernhardt, upholstered in Schumacher's Hothouse Flowers fabric, balancing the room's architectural pine beams and trusses. Custom silk lampshades from Slightly East and chair upholstery fabric in Davenport from Lee Jofa complement the floral headboard. The renovation also involved upcycling existing furniture, such as a bench and armchair, which were reupholstered in hand-blocked fabric, a solution adopted during the pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions. Off the primary bedroom, a sitting room suite provides a luxurious space for relaxation. The walls are covered in Thibaut's Cantal, a soft stripe, creating a contemporary interpretation of Victorian style. Art and framing are from Cross Gate Gallery, the chaise is upholstered in Palisades Velvet by Vern Yip for Trend, the armchair in Bird & Iris by GP&J Baker, and the Poppy light is by Regina Andrew. The daughter's bedroom is a vibrant space, showcasing creative touches like matching wallpaper, headboard, and bedskirt in Aldith Blue by Thibaut. Chartreuse accents, an antique rug, desk, and chair are combined with modern abstract art by Lesley Grainger, a handmade papier-mache light from Stray Dog Design, and a Baroque rug from Fibreworks. The ottoman is custom-made with Kate Spade's Maxime fabric. For the boy's bathroom, Isabel incorporated playful and modern elements while maintaining traditional touches. Thassos marble tile, rotating sconces, and green cabinetry painted in Palmer Green by Benjamin Moore are paired with an antique rug and needlepoint bench. The Renee sconces are by Hudson Valley Lighting. The powder room, located in the new addition, features a dramatic yet dark Acquario wallpaper by Cole & Son with a fish motif, complemented by natural rattan and bleached wood elements. The countertop has soft blue veining that mimics a tide. The Padma light is by Arteriors. The exterior of the 1889 Victorian home is surrounded by lush farmland. The design incorporates indoor plants, natural materials, and floral prints to create a fluid transition between the interior and outdoor spaces, blurring the boundaries and enhancing the connection to nature. #VictorianHomeDesign #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #CuratedMaximalism #OldMeetsNew #HomeTour #IsabelLaddInteriors #KentuckyHome #ArchitecturalPreservation

This article details the comprehensive renovation and interior design of a 1970s ranch home in Brentwood, TN, undertaken by its second owner, Tyler Pennington. Having admired the house since childhood, Tyler purchased it from the original owners and embarked on a transformation project to update it for his family of five while preserving its original architectural charm, which he describes as reminiscent of the New England coast. The renovation involved reconfiguring the internal space, adding a second story, and selecting finishes and furnishings to suit a modern lifestyle with young children, without sacrificing its classic aesthetic. Tyler, who owns White Pines Building Group, managed much of the construction work himself. He collaborated with architect Champ Webb of C.W. Design and Andrew King of AK Designs for the second-story addition and exterior elements. For the interior design, he enlisted Sara Ray Interior Design, aiming for a contemporary look that avoided excessive modernity or trendiness. Sara Ray focused on creating a design that blended classic, traditional elements with clean lines and modern touches, prioritizing durable fabrics for furnishings and incorporating vintage rugs to withstand daily wear and tear from three young children. The design also balanced masculine and feminine touches, with a deliberate emphasis on timeless pieces that would retain their appeal over decades. Throughout the renovation, Tyler made efforts to integrate natural and historically relevant materials. While the interior was largely gutted, original materials were reused, and aspects of the original design were recreated. For instance, new poplar molding was installed in the entryway and dining room, hardwood floors were milled locally in Leiper’s Fork, and windows were designed to replicate the original grid pattern. A significant part of the project involved relocating the original fireplace, with its salvaged limestone being repurposed to create a new, two-story focal point in the central living area. The main floor features an open layout with a living area, dining area, and kitchen. The living space, characterized by a wall of doors and a double-story ceiling, displays a masculine-meets-modern aesthetic with warm accent colors against a white backdrop. The renovated kitchen prioritizes brightness, featuring a large center island, a tile backsplash, a polished limestone hood, and light fixtures with brass shades. The dining room, located off the main entry, showcases a reclaimed wood table with an industrial base, brass-foot chairs, and upholstered end chairs, all illuminated by a modern light fixture. Other rooms, such as the powder room, continue the theme of simple design with character. The children's bedrooms were designed with personalized touches. The oldest daughter's room is colorful, while the youngest daughter's features pinks and frills. The middle child's room incorporates antelope wallpaper and a vintage brass deer head, reflecting his interest in hunting. Bathrooms feature muted color schemes, penny tile flooring, and unique fixtures. The second floor accommodates a guest bedroom, children's bedrooms, a playroom, and a study area, while the third floor includes a sleeping nook with bunk-style beds and another playroom with a slide connecting to the second floor. The exterior of the house largely maintains its original appearance, with subtle updates such as a cedar roof, copper gas lanterns, updated stonework, and custom corbels. The transformation successfully merges the home's historic essence with modern family living, ensuring its continued admiration. #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #InteriorDesign #ClassicModern #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalPreservation #SustainableDesign #SaraRayInteriors #NashvilleHomes

In 2013, interior designer Mary Laipple built a three-bedroom, 2 ½-bathroom home at 455 Wyola St. in the Sweetbriar Village development on Mount Washington, deliberately avoiding the then-popular farmhouse style characterized by white shaker cabinets and gray interiors. Instead, Laipple, in collaboration with Sweetbriar developer Jeff Paul of Pomo Development, aimed for an "industrial modern" aesthetic that conveyed a lived-in, welcoming atmosphere, eschewing the typical new construction feel. Her design choices were focused on creating a timeless style, which has since gained widespread popularity on social media. The home's distinctive design elements are evident from the moment one approaches, with a Craftsman-style front door framed in teal. Inside, high ceilings contribute to an expansive feel. The main living space, accessible via three steps, immediately showcases Laipple’s vision. The kitchen, a central feature, boasts custom Decora cabinets with taupe finishes, a professional-grade Jenn-Air appliance suite including wall ovens and a six-burner gas range, and black soapstone countertops. Laipple specifically chose soapstone for its aesthetic appeal and antimicrobial properties. A center island with a waterfall edge provides seating for four. The kitchen's walls are adorned with neutral-hued, handmade subway tiles, complemented by a bronze-rubbed statement hood and a basket-weave backsplash. Lighting in the kitchen and dining area is provided by lantern pendants over the island and dining table. A custom wall bar, designed for entertaining, includes seeded-glass front doors, wine storage, a sink, and a mini-refrigerator, strategically positioned near the patio to facilitate both indoor and outdoor gatherings. The outdoor space features a roof-covered deck, a grill, and a settee, which Laipple notes is frequently used. The living room features a stacked stone gas fireplace, uniquely accented with a vertical soapstone panel on one side, cleverly concealing media and technology components. The upper level of the home accommodates a custom primary bedroom suite, distinguished by a tray ceiling, ceiling fan, and a continuation of the wide-plank oak flooring seen downstairs. The primary bathroom is designed as a luxurious retreat, featuring a double-bowl vanity, porcelain-and-glass tile walls, a soaking tub, and a spacious glass-walled shower with a seat. This suite also includes a walk-in closet equipped with custom cabinet drawers, ample hanging space, and shoe storage. The two additional bedrooms on this level measure 11x11 square feet and 11x10 square feet, respectively. One serves as a guest bedroom, decorated in a soft green-gray, while the other is currently configured as an office in a soft heather pink hue. An additional bathroom in the hallway could be integrated into the guest bedroom to create a second en-suite. The upper level also includes a conveniently located laundry space and attic storage with pull-down access. The finished basement offers further functionality with a yoga studio and workout area, a half bathroom with the potential for conversion into a full bathroom, and three large closets. Laipple highlights the flexibility of this space, mentioning that previous owners have adapted it into a guest suite by combining the bathroom with the main room. The property also features a two-car integral garage. The Sweetbriar Village community provides a large common area and sidewalks, promoting a friendly environment suitable for dog walking and social interaction. Laipple emphasizes the convenience of the Mount Washington location and its diverse community. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #MountWashington #PittsburghRealEstate #TimelessStyle #CustomHome #KitchenDesign #PrimarySuite #ResidentialArchitecture

Studio McGee clients Darin and Sarah undertake a renovation of their historic "old pioneer home" in Charleston, Utah, a hamlet located outside Salt Lake City. The project focuses on updating the entry and living room while preserving the home's historical essence and imbuing it with a cozy, colorful cottage aesthetic, described as an "updated Little House on the Prairie" vibe. The design employs a cohesive color palette throughout the space, featuring Sherwin-Williams' Riverway, a dark blue-green, and Clare's Timeless, a cream hue, applied consistently across walls and built-in cabinets. The entry, despite not being overly large, is treated as a dedicated space, styled to integrate seamlessly with the rest of the home while maximizing functionality. A wall of hooks and a vintage dresser from McGee & Co.'s collection are incorporated to provide ample storage for items like hats and gloves, enhancing practical use without compromising style. Charcoal-colored limestone tile from Ann Sacks is utilized to visually delineate the entry from the main living area, creating a subtle yet effective transition. The walls in the entry feature a distinctive willow-adorned William Morris wallpaper, extending from the wood paneling trim up to the ceiling, adding a touch of classic pattern and texture. The living room design includes a side sitting area with a wall of built-in cabinetry, designed specifically to house the client's extensive book collection. This cabinetry, with its unlacquered brass pulls and a brass gallery rail, creates an immersive, library-like atmosphere. The client's piano is integrated into this built-in arrangement, and is accompanied by an upholstered bench from the Studio McGee x Threshold collection, draped with a sheepskin from Jenni Kayne Home. Antique brass swing arm sconces flank the piano, complemented by brass flush mount fixtures overhead. Across from the piano, a formerly vacant corner is transformed into a small game area with a marble-top table and a French bistro base, paired with two velvet swivel chairs that allow for flexible interaction with the main living space. The primary living area is anchored by McGee & Co.’s Youngman Console Table, positioned behind a Lucille English Roll Arm Sofa upholstered in tan performance linen. Additional seating includes a McGee & Co. Gemma Chair and an antique Windsor spindle chair sourced from Etsy, placed on either side of the fireplace. A patterned Belleville Rug from McGee & Co. defines the living space, beneath an alder wood square coffee table. The finishing touches, such as vintage cowbells, crocks, and books, contribute to a "prairie chic" aesthetic, completing the cohesive and historically sensitive design. The project highlights a successful blend of modern updates with traditional charm, supported by various sponsors contributing materials and expertise. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #CottageStyle #LivingRoomDesign #EntrywayDesign #StudioMcGee #DreamHomeMakeover #TraditionalModern