The Picket Fence Around This Tiny Nantucket Cottage Tees Up the Charm Inside

This blog post details the transformation of a shingle-style home located just outside of Nantucket, Massachusetts, from a mountain lodge aesthetic to a classic, light, bright, and breathtakingly pretty beach house retreat. Originally built in the early 2000s, the home's interiors were characterized by natural and dark stained wood paneling and heavy iron fixtures. The new owner envisioned a seaside haven, and Boston-based interior designer Gary McBournie undertook the significant task of redesigning the interiors without major structural changes, completing the project in just six months. McBournie's approach focused on incorporating a traditional coastal palette of blues and whites, combined with contemporary freshness. The designer's primary strategy was to use extensive white paint to lighten the formerly dark spaces and to infuse the decor with soothing ocean-inspired colors and textures. The goal was to reflect the rich history of Nantucket while maintaining a comfortable, non-museum-like atmosphere. The transformation began with the patio, where ample seating from Janus et Cie was introduced, complemented by side tables for enjoying the ocean views, emphasizing the importance of outdoor spaces in beach house decor. The sunroom, previously a large mudroom and storage area, was reimagined as a cozy, sheltered space for appreciating the seascape. Sunroom ideas included basket and rattan furniture with ocean blue upholstery and scatter pillows. Drapery treatments were added to doorways to create a sense of balance and nook-like intimacy. A locally-produced woven rag rug by Hillary Anepole provided charm and a nod to the island’s weaving history, with the sofa sourced from Todd Hase Furniture. The kitchen underwent a significant overhaul to align with the new coastal theme. Dark wood paneling on the vaulted ceiling was painted white, instantly brightening the space. The existing commercial-feeling island was rebuilt with 'feet' to give it a residential appearance and painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Blue Jean.' Sparking white quartz counters, reminiscent of sand and ocean foam, replaced the old ones. Sconces from Soane Britain and a pendant from Guinevere were installed, along with Roman shades in blue and white cotton from Peter Fasano, adding softness. Counter stools from Serena & Lily completed the look. A key challenge in the living room was the imposing stone fireplace, which strongly evoked a 'mountain house' feel. McBournie addressed this by hanging a pair of Scabetti fish chandeliers in glazed and unglazed bone china in front of the fireplace, accompanied by a large round mirror to reflect the shimmering fish and light. The open-plan living area was subtly separated from the kitchen and dining space by an antique English oak sideboard, which was topped with a glass cylinder filled with native grasses and a whale vertebra to enhance the sense of place. The furnishings were chosen to be substantial yet light in spirit, featuring a large sofa in light blue tweed and smaller sofas in deep blue, with Bielecky Brothers lounge chairs upholstered in the same fabric as the window treatments to reinforce the summer house ambiance. The dining room explicitly embraced coastal style with jaunty chair cushions, a large custom white dining table, and blue and white upholstered bamboo chairs. Mid-century consoles with hand-painted shell and wave motifs by local artist Diedre Mannix and Anglo-Indian lanterns grouped at staggered heights further enhanced the nautical theme. The primary bedroom, with its harbor views, adopted a light and breezy scheme, incorporating Lockhart wallpaper from Peter Fasano and pale blue linen window treatments. Checked fabric from Schumacher was used for a chair, accent pillows, and a window seat, with additional furnishings from Oomph Home, Nantucket Looms, and Norbar. The second guest bedroom introduced a change of mood, drawing inspiration from pastoral views and incorporating various shades of green. An antique campaign chest and nautical engravings in white frames contributed to an English feel, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Fresh Dew' and Soane Britain’s 'Scrolling Fern Frond' fabric custom-colored for the headboard and window treatments. The third bedroom blended harbor and pastoral views with a vintage floral theme, inspired by an impressionist beach scene painting. A pink strie wallpaper from Farrow & Ball and a vintage Brunschwig & Fils floral fabric created a soft background, complemented by crisp white Leontine Linens with pink embroidery and a pink gourd lamp from Christopher Spitzmiller with a Blanche Field lampshade. Finally, the outdoor terrace and porch lawn, with basket chairs from Janus et Cie's Arbor collection featuring ocean blue cushion fabrics, completed the transformation. Gary McBournie successfully eradicated the mountain-lodge aesthetic, replacing it with fresh, calm, and uplifting coastal interiors that offer a stunning new lease of life to the home. The design skillfully references traditional old island hotels while incorporating sensitive touches of contemporary seaside themes, creating a harmonious blend of familiarity and refreshing new design. #NantucketHome #BeachHouseStyle #CoastalInteriors #HomeTransformation #InteriorDesign #GaryMcBournie #SeasideRetreat #BlueAndWhiteDecor #TraditionalCoastal

Designer Ken Fulk meticulously restored a 19th-century cottage in Provincetown, Massachusetts, infusing it with a unique blend of nautical inspiration and vintage aesthetics. The objective of the restoration was to transform the small space into a visually expansive and personally curated haven, reflecting Fulk's distinct style. The design approach emphasizes a collected feel, evident in the numerous oil paintings that adorn almost every surface, including the backs of doors, which contribute to a sense of visual continuity and historical depth in spaces like the entryway. The dining area, for instance, foregoes window treatments to maximize natural light, effectively tempering the dark painted floors. An antique bridge table paired with thatched-seat chairs replaces conventional dining furniture, enhancing the cottage's vintage charm and optimizing space. This decision highlights the designer's commitment to both functionality and thematic consistency, proving that small spaces can be highly adaptable and stylish. In the kitchen, innovative storage solutions are employed to avoid bulky cabinetry. Over-the-door open shelving and wall-mounted storage systems allow Fulk to prominently display his collection of kitchen items, turning utilitarian objects into decorative elements. This strategy not only maintains an uncluttered appearance but also integrates personal touches into the functional areas of the home, reinforcing the theme of a curated living space. The bedroom showcases a design technique where the same saturated color is applied to the ceiling, trim, and walls. This monochromatic application eliminates visual breaks, creating an illusion of heightened ceilings and a more expansive feel within the compact room. A salvaged boat hatch repurposed as a light fixture further enhances the nautical ambiance, seamlessly tying the room's design to the cottage's harborside location and Fulk's maritime interests. Throughout the cottage, the careful selection of furniture, art, and decor elements works in concert to create a cohesive and charming interior that belies its small footprint, presenting a model for maximizing character and comfort in a limited area. #HarborsideCottage #TinyHouseDesign #NauticalDecor #VintageHome #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #KenFulk #CapeCod #HomeRestoration

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of interior designer Raili Clasen in transforming a 1918 Laguna Beach cottage. Clasen, known for translating surf and beach culture into design, created a space that is both chic and joyful, incorporating bright accents and a streamlined layout. The cottage, despite its small footprint and city building code restrictions, was completely renovated to maximize every inch, addressing the owner's need for a functional, low-fuss space for entertaining friends. Clasen's design approach began with gutting the entire house. She ingeniously converted a coat closet into a compact powder room and another closet into a laundry area, ensuring no space was wasted. The bedrooms exemplify efficient design; one children's room features two twin beds with trundles, accommodating up to four kids, while a guest room includes a queen-sized bed. Clasen's playful side is evident in surf-inspired elements, such as flags stitched with names of famous surf beaches by Slightly Choppy and a unique installation of single swim fins in a guest bedroom, sourced from a thrift shop. Her expert use of color is a defining characteristic of the cottage's interior. Starting with a neutral base of Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace white walls, she introduced vibrant hues like Sherwin Williams Bright Olive paint and Portola Paint terracotta wash. In the bathroom, a half wall of two-toned Zellige tiles by Clé creates an "ode to the sea," with dark blue representing the ocean and light blue the sky, complemented by vintage ship pendant lights. The kitchen design prioritized functionality and spaciousness despite its small size. Clasen meticulously planned the layout to prevent appliance doors from clashing and utilized open shelving to create the illusion of a larger area. The kitchen also serves as the back entrance, necessitating an open flow for sandy visitors. A built-in banquette with performance fabric cushions and mustard yellow Windsor-style chairs maximizes seating, while basket pendants from Pop and Scott add natural textures. The durable 3-inch strip oak flooring with a wax finish was chosen for its resilience and authentic feel. The living room features a custom sectional sofa in durable washed linen, designed to fit the space perfectly and accommodate groups. Additional seating can be brought in from the small deck. The primary bathroom showcases hand-printed cement tiles from Morocco by Concrete Collaborative, incorporating California desert colors for a retreat-like ambiance. In the primary bedroom, natural materials are emphasized with a wicker bed from Kalon Studios, a classic Noguchi light, and bedding from Cultiver. A guest bedroom is enlivened with saturated bedding colors from Cultiver and a painted stripe serving as a visual headboard, with sconces from Schoolhouse Electric. Artistic touches include an Eric Vallely photo of a diver split into a diptych in the living room and Lake August Matilija wallpaper in the powder room, which Clasen considers her favorite design moment. A yellow Vola faucet and cast concrete sink in the powder room contribute to a bold statement in the tiny space. Clasen’s design not only maximized the cottage's limited space but also infused it with a distinctive, cheerful, and coastal character. #LagunaBeach #CoastalCottage #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorDesign #RailiClasen #HomeRenovation #SurfCulture #ColorPalette #FunctionalDesign

This article showcases the transformed boat house home of designer Gary McBournie and his partner Bill Richards in Nantucket, Massachusetts. The renovation aimed to convert a rustic and disjointed former boat house, which had undergone some prior renovation, into an ideal Nantucket summer house that is both coastal and elegant. The original structure presented challenges due to its floorplan and materials more suited for a mountain lodge than a seaside cottage. Working with Nantucket-based architects Botticelli & Pohl, Gary McBournie reconfigured the interior layout to improve the property's flow before focusing on the design. The interiors feature elements from Gary and Bill's first fabric and wallpaper collection for Gary McBournie Home, incorporating fresh colors and patterns that enhance the classic Nantucket style. The home's color palette, inspired by Nantucket's flora, includes whites, tans, light greens, blues, and pops of red. The main room, serving as a smart living room, is designed to be versatile for both bright warm days and cooler evenings, with a central fireplace described by Gary as 'a fireplace to die for' and a key element for the home's welcoming atmosphere. The living room proudly displays works by Nantucket artists, reflecting the island’s decorative arts and maritime history. A restored Heriz rug and an English antique lantern over a Maison Jansen coffee table are notable pieces. Two tailored blue couches anchor the living area, complemented by carefully curated art and nautical artifacts. Red highlights are subtly incorporated throughout the main room, setting the tone for the rest of the four-bedroom home. The open-plan layout connects the living room to the dining area, allowing the warmth of the fireplace to be enjoyed in both spaces. The dining room, intended for more formal entertaining, features a custom dining table from Keith Fritz Fine Furniture, chairs upholstered with Carolina Irving fabric, and a Stark handwoven area rug. A vintage wooden anchor sign from Sylvia Antiques reinforces the coastal heritage theme. In the kitchen, the design prioritizes relaxation. A midcentury Danish sofa offers a comfortable spot for guests, while the coastal blue and white palette contrasts with dark floors. A cowhide rug, an Ann Morris pot rack, and an antique Chinese stool add character. The kitchen island, originally part of a larger great room, was transformed into a cohesive gathering space. Its decorative legs and custom blue finish by Deidre Mannix contribute to a maritime feel while providing essential workspace. Outdoor spaces were also thoughtfully designed. A breezeway, an addition to the back of the boat house, serves as a covered porch, a desired feature for summer homes. This area includes a rattan lounger with a throw pillow featuring one of Gary and Bill's new fabric designs. A summer dining space in a covered porch overlooks a redesigned backyard by landscaper Ed Hollander, who used native plants to create an authentic coastal planting scheme. The outdoor furniture comprises classic coastal-style vintage pieces from Bamboo & Rattan, with cushions in Perennials' Rough ‘n Rowdy fabric. Upstairs, the hallway showcases a fun, nautical update with Whaling Flags wallpaper by Gary McBournie Home, complemented by antique accessories. The primary bedroom highlights the boat house's origins with a vaulted ceiling and roof lights. More windows were added to maximize harbor views, and painted white wooden beams enhance brightness. The striking color scheme in the primary bedroom includes coastal blue and white, energized with cherry red accents in the rug, benches, bed, and throws. The guest bedroom features Gary McBournie Home's Hydrangea design wallpaper, with a light green and cream scheme inspired by the local landscape. The entire renovation took 18 months, including front and backyard landscaping. The exterior maintains the typical New England shingle beach front property aesthetic, with a smart approach created by front yard paving and symmetrical planting. The project successfully transformed a disjointed boat house into an elegant, coastal retreat that celebrates Nantucket's charm and the designers' personal style. #CoastalInteriors #NantucketHome #BoatHouseConversion #InteriorDesign #GaryMcBournie #HomeRenovation #CoastalDecor #NauticalDesign #TextileDesign

Architect David Hicks designed Woodend house, located in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia, drawing inspiration from European vernacular architecture, particularly villas found in the French, Tuscan, and Puglian countryside. The house features a deliberate windowless facade, a design choice Hicks frequently employs to create intrigue and privacy. This approach ensures that the dwelling's interior experience is revealed only upon entry, rather than from the exterior. The single-story home was created for an older couple seeking to downsize, who had previously owned another windowless property designed by Hicks. Access to the Woodend house is gained through a wrought-iron arched gate situated on the side of the building, leading to a portico and then into an entrance vestibule. The interior walls throughout the house are rendered in micro cement and finished with limewash, imparting a stone-like texture. A vintage chandelier, made from ruched Murano glass, is a focal point in the vestibule, suspended from a circular recess in the ceiling. A central corridor extends from the vestibule, providing access to all the other rooms within the residence. Among the rooms is a 'retreat' area, functioning as a relaxed study and sitting room. This space is furnished with an Eames lounge chair, a multi-armed light fixture by French designer Serge Mouille, and a fireplace framed by a Ceppo marble surround. The same Ceppo marble is utilized for shelves within two arched display niches, adding a cohesive aesthetic element. Double doors connect the retreat to the principal bedroom, which is appointed with luxurious touches including a velvet rug, a satiny headboard, and fluted glass wall sconces. Storage solutions in the bedroom are subtly integrated behind white lacquered panels. The principal bedroom also features an en-suite bathroom where surfaces are covered in pale Calacatta marble. Large sliding glazed doors at the rear of the bathroom offer views of a small brick courtyard, which is adorned with a miniature maple tree. The main living area, a more formal space, contains white armchairs and a curved baby pink sofa, with sheer linen curtains covering French doors that open to the garden. The kitchen, integrated into this area, includes simple white cabinetry and a breakfast island topped with Calacatta marble. The home's powder room showcases extensive use of Ceppo marble, covering the walls, floor, and washbasin with its distinctive pattern. The photography for Woodend house was captured by Shannon McGrath. The project exemplifies a trend in Australian architecture for homes with striking, often unconventional, facades. Other notable examples include the Birdwood house by Peter Besley, which features a perforated screen of terracotta brick and metal mesh, and the Bangalow Road House by Son Studio, characterized by a wall of timber louvres that echo traditional wooden beach shacks. These designs collectively demonstrate a focus on unique exterior treatments that often contrast with rich and private interior spaces. #AustralianArchitecture #DavidHicks #WoodendHouse #VictoriaAustralia #WindowlessFacade #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #Marble #ResidentialArchitecture

The Forager’s Cottage, a 1930s Australian weatherboard bungalow, is home to Helen May Petschel, a retired French homewares dealer. The cottage, steeped in history, showcases a deep appreciation for the past, with original features meticulously preserved by Helen over four decades. Golden autumn sunlight illuminates the interiors at 6 AM, highlighting the seasonal arrangements made from berries and foliage gathered from the garden. Helen expresses her preference for antique and vintage items, particularly European and rural primitive decor, over modern living, emphasizing that everything she acquires is from a bygone era. Her philosophy centers on authenticity, rustic charm, and utility, filling every space with pieces that hold a lifetime of memories. The kitchen is described as the most enchanting space, featuring an old enamel sink, original to the cottage, with a wooden draining board and a green pressed tin splashback that adds period charm. It is filled with well-worn pots and pans, chopping boards, and colorful jars of bottled fruits. Instead of a fitted kitchen, Helen opted for freestanding antique furniture when she and her late husband, Steve, purchased the property. This choice allowed for flexible arrangements over the years with minimal cost. A 1930 original larder remains intact, serving as storage for Helen’s utensils and food. Each item in the cottage carries personal significance, such as an antique dresser in the kitchen, a Christmas gift from Steve, which Helen connects to Beatrix Potter books. This dresser displays her collection of old wares, butter molds, breadboards, earthenware jugs, and bowls, all sourced from Europe. Helen, the second generation to live in the cottage, shares a profound connection to her modest home, which has provided solace through significant personal losses. In 2001, she and Steve lost their 19-year-old son, Phil, to a brain aneurysm, and in 2021, Steve, her husband of 41 years, passed away. Born in England, Helen experienced a transient childhood, frequently moving and never truly having a stable home. A brief, joyful period with her grandfather in Broad Chalke, Wiltshire, ignited her passion for English cottage decor, as the Australian bungalow reminded her of his Tudor cottage. The cottage’s original features contribute to its ethereal atmosphere. Helen recalls her first encounter with the property as stepping into a "time capsule," with everything preserved from 1930, including an old wood stove, a claw-foot bathtub, an old wooden draining board with an enamel sink, and a lead splashback, all of which remain today. In the dining room, an old seamstress’s worktable is repurposed as a dining table, set against Dulux’s ‘Vintage Green’ walls. The living room also features Dulux’s ‘Antique Green,’ enhancing its heritage ambiance. Helen finds joy in simple routines, like collecting pinecones for the evening fire, and appreciates the scent of pine and the sound of wind in the trees during this season. Her interiors, though unpolished, possess a raw charm, showcasing a lifetime of collected treasures that reflect her love for authentic vintage design. Despite its cracks and original paint, Helen chooses not to modernize the cottage, viewing it as a comforting refuge that has supported her through life’s tragedies and heartaches. #EnglishCountryLiving #VintageDecor #AntiqueFurniture #CottageInteriors #PreservedHistory #RusticCharm #HeirloomTreasures #Homemaking #InteriorDesign

The article showcases the 1799 Colonial-style cottage of interior designer Kari McCabe and architect Nate McBride in Stonington, Connecticut. The couple, who previously summered in the area, found this property in 2018. It had already undergone necessary renovations to the foundation and electrical systems, preserving its original character, including fireplaces, exposed beams, and rustic chestnut and oak floors. The home is situated amidst farmland, offering a serene, country living experience despite being only 10 minutes from the water. The renovation focused on infusing the cottage with personal touches, largely drawing from Kari's Scandinavian heritage and a collection of vintage family heirlooms. This approach involved incorporating Swedish rugs and textiles, along with a palette of vibrant colors and cheerful patterns, transforming the space into a joyful year-round residence. The exterior of the home was updated from a moss-green to a bright white, complemented by a blue front door and natural wood window frames. The side porch, now the main entrance, features a vintage Norwegian flag and a dog statue, reflecting family history and a playful nod to their Scottish terrier. The mudroom serves multiple functions as an entry and laundry room, designed with a waterproof rug and vibrant indoor-outdoor fabric curtains to conceal utility areas. The main living space, originally the primary bedroom, was expanded by removing a wall. It features a blend of high-end and affordable decor, such as an Isamu Noguchi paper lamp alongside IKEA bookshelves and vintage rattan furniture. The room is further adorned with a vintage Swedish rug, patterned textiles, and naive art from a Maine artist. Another living area combines sleek mid-century modern furniture with rustic wood beams and floors, creating an eclectic aesthetic. The dining room is distinctively decorated with an Indian dhurrie as a table covering, complementing the nature-inspired Josef Frank wallpaper and vintage pitchers on the mantel. Modern elements like a midcentury credenza and a Danish pendant light are integrated. The kitchen's breakfast nook offers views through ample windows and is furnished with a vintage trestle table and bentwood chairs, accented by Swedish pottery, a Scandinavian pendant, and a Josef Frank textile pillow. The kitchen itself, once dark, was brightened with pale gray cabinetry, open shelving, and modern lighting, removing elements that obstructed views. The primary bedroom features all-over wallpaper on both walls and ceiling, creating a cohesive, cocoon-like atmosphere, further enhanced by white-painted floors. Color is introduced through a patterned duvet, a handwoven Swedish rug, and artwork by Cornelia Foss. The guest bedroom continues the vibrant theme with garden-inspired wallpaper, a striped blanket, and a checked duvet, alongside a still life by Louisa Matthíasdóttir and a vintage Eames chair. The bathroom boasts botanical wallpaper, vintage French sconces, and a Swedish mirror, referencing the natural surroundings. Nate's office includes a vintage sawhorse desk, an Eames plywood chair, and an industrial lamp, while Kari's office features a Josef Frank curtain and family mementos. Finally, a newly added deck is furnished with vintage metal Woodard furniture and other collected pieces, extending the home's unique, collected aesthetic outdoors. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #HouseTour #CoastalLiving #VintageDecor #ScandinavianDesign #ConnecticutHomes #Renovation #Wallpaper #EclecticStyle

Nineteen years ago, CK and Morgan Smith acquired their first large boat, which significantly altered their lifestyle. For nearly two decades, they consistently utilized their free time, primarily summer weekends, to engage in activities on Pickwick Lake. Their four children grew up considering Pickwick Lake a secondary home. Initially, the family docked their three-stateroom boat at Aqua Yacht Harbor, spending weekends living on the water. As the children matured, their desire for more friends and less time anchored on the boat led the Smiths to purchase a ski boat, increasing their active participation in lake activities. Approximately two years prior to this account, the Smiths decided to formalize Pickwick's status as a second home. They collaborated with architect Carson Looney of LRK and interior designer Cindy McCord of Cindy McCord Interior Design, Inc., to construct a dream house at Pickwick Lake, enabling them to enjoy lake life year-round. This residence was intended to offer a complete transition from their everyday lives, providing a sense of calmness immediately upon entering. Morgan expressed a desire for a "beach house" ambiance, contrasting with their Germantown home's French country style, which Cindy had designed 14 years earlier. Cindy drew inspiration from the sun-washed, laid-back, clean-lined residences of Florida’s Rosemary Beach community, a place the Smith family also frequented, effectively creating a "beach house at the lake." Their Germantown residence featured a warm color palette of yellows, corals, and browns. For the new lake house, they opted for a cooler scheme of grays, blues, and whites, resulting in a transitional aesthetic that blends clean lines with coziness and comfort. Morgan envisioned a space where the family and guests could relax comfortably. A weathered wood pedestal table seating eight was a must for Morgan, facilitating entertaining. Doors open fully from the dining space to a screened porch, which accommodates a long farmhouse table with casual cane-seat chairs, collectively seating 20 people. The spacious screened porch, which includes an L-shaped wicker sofa, two side chairs, a stone fireplace, and a mounted flat-screen TV, is a primary gathering spot for the family, usable even in winter thanks to heaters and the fireplace. Cindy McCord and Morgan Smith collaborated closely on the project, including several buying trips to Atlanta for antique and vintage pieces, such as a weathered workbench that adds texture and patina. The designer expressed satisfaction with every room, particularly noting the architectural features of the stairwell. The open living area seamlessly connects to the dining room and kitchen through wide openings framed by reclaimed wood beams, sourced from a Mississippi-based supplier. The kitchen features white cabinetry, white shiplap walls, pale countertops, and a rustic custom wood vent hood, complemented by oversized pendant lights above the island. The living room's stone fireplace extends to a whitewashed peaked wood ceiling, contributing to an airy and ethereal atmosphere. This soft, neutral color palette and inviting ambiance extend into the bedrooms. The master suite includes an upholstered headboard with a subtle pattern, white bedding, and neutral draperies, fostering a restful environment. A guest room showcases a nautical blue-and-white palette with patterned elements, while a large bunk room accommodates ten people with built-in beds and loft-like sleeping arrangements. The house can sleep 18 individuals in beds alone. A spacious entertainment area on the lower level provides extra seating, a bar, and a billiards room, serving as another gathering place for the family. The lake house represents a compromise, fulfilling CK's desire for a lake retreat and Morgan's wish for a beach house, creating a beloved space for family relaxation and entertainment. #BeachHouse #LakeHouse #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #RusticElegance #TransitionalStyle #PickwickLake #CindyMcCord #HomeFeatures

Interior designer Nicole Fisher of BNR Interiors transformed a four-bedroom, builder-grade row house in Hudson, Upstate New York, into a vibrant home with British charm. The initial state of the house, purchased by a developer, lacked character with generic hardware store moldings and fixtures. Fisher's primary goal was to infuse personality and warmth into the space, moving away from the common 'white on white' aesthetic prevalent in the region. The design process began with selecting a cohesive color palette, largely inspired by House of Hackney’s Avalon wallpaper, a striped and floral pattern used in the dining room. This wallpaper dictated the selection of 14 different paint colors applied throughout the house, aiming to create a distinctly British, rather than farmhouse, atmosphere. The homeowners, being British themselves, were receptive to a bold and layered approach to interior design, having previously embraced unconventional choices like a lime green kitchen in their London home. Fisher embraced the British tendency for playful interiors, characterized by multiple patterns and layers, creating spaces that feel timeless rather than confined to a specific era. The philosophy was to choose elements that the homeowners loved, ensuring they would work together harmoniously if executed correctly. A significant feature of the renovation included the incorporation of two hidden doors—one leading to a pantry and another in the TV room. These hidden spaces serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing privacy in a house where the entire length is visible from the front door, and offering practical solutions for entertaining by concealing clutter or creating a 'speakeasy' feel. Attention to detail extends to specific rooms, such as the primary bedroom, where multiple patterns are successfully integrated. The key to this success lies in a common color thread, specifically a cranberry hue, which is consistently pulled through various elements like the bed, wallpaper, and chair tassels. Additionally, Fisher employed variations in scale, combining small and large patterns, such as a chunky floral fabric from Liberty (which held sentimental value for the homeowner as her wedding dress designer) for the headboard. This approach creates a collected, aged feel, reminiscent of a modern grandmother's country house, avoiding a 'too new' or 'too precious' ambiance. The kitchen also showcases unique finds, including a faux marble island sourced from 1stDibs. This island, with its colors complementing the chosen wallpaper, became a central element that set the tone for the rest of the kitchen, contributing to the overall layered and inviting aesthetic Fisher aimed for. Other notable design choices include Sanderson’s Stapleton Park Wallpaper in the dressing room, Farrow & Ball’s Potted Shrimp for the den walls, Phillip Jeffries’s Island Raffia in the living room, Cole & Son’s Frutta e Geometrico in the bar area, Soane’s Scrolling Acanthus in Bloom in the primary bedroom, John Derian wallpaper in another bedroom, and Scalamandre’s Magnus in Indigo Blue in the laundry room. These selections highlight a rich interplay of patterns, textures, and colors, successfully transforming a generic space into a home filled with character and warmth, deeply influenced by British design sensibilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BritishCharm #PatternMixing #WallpaperDesign #ColorPalette #HiddenDoors #HudsonHome #BNRInteriors

Perched upon a rocky hill overlooking a small farm in the Berkshires, a new residence designed by Kinneymorrow Architecture serves as the home for Emily and Jeremy, their two children, two dogs, several cats, chickens, and horses. The architectural design of this Massachusetts country home draws inspiration from vernacular houses, barns, and covered bridges characteristic of rural New England, while incorporating a modern aesthetic with its Cor-Ten steel cladding. The house is strategically positioned to offer panoramic views of the changing seasons in the surrounding countryside. A defining feature of the home is its west façade, where apertures in the Cor-Ten skin align with the interior programming. These openings frame specific views from the living, dining, and kitchen areas, and extend to include screened porches on either end of the structure. This design choice maximizes natural light and integrates the interior spaces with the exterior landscape, creating a sense of connection to nature throughout the day. The layout of the house is thoughtfully organized, with the bedrooms situated along the east side to capture the morning sun, contributing to a naturally lit and pleasant start to the day for the occupants. Above the main living floor, lofts are incorporated to provide flexible guest spaces, offering additional accommodation without compromising the home's primary living areas. The foundation of the house includes a cast concrete base, which houses a mudroom, an art studio, a mechanical room, and covered parking facilities. This lower level provides practical and functional spaces that support the family's diverse needs and activities, from creative pursuits to everyday utility. A notable aspect of the home's construction is the owner's personal involvement in sourcing materials. Jeremy, one of the owners, harvested most of the wood finishes used in the house from the forest located around the property. This commitment to using local and natural materials not only imbues the home with a unique character and connection to its site but also reflects a sustainable approach to building. The combination of modern Cor-Ten steel and rustic, locally sourced wood creates a harmonious balance between contemporary design and traditional country living. The design by Kinneymorrow Architecture successfully blends functional requirements with aesthetic appeal, creating a home that is both resilient and deeply integrated with its natural environment. The deliberate placement of window nooks throughout the residence allows every room to benefit from expansive views, ensuring that the beauty of the Berkshires landscape is an ever-present element of the family's daily life. This architectural approach emphasizes an indoor-outdoor living experience, providing comfort and visual engagement with the rural setting. #CountryHome #MassachusettsArchitecture #KinneymorrowArchitecture #CorTenSteel #ModernFarmhouse #WindowNooks #SustainableDesign #Berkshires #ArchitecturalDesign #LocalWood

Hám Interiors, led by siblings Tom and Kate Cox, designed a coastal getaway from a former fisherman’s net loft overlooking Trevone Bay in North Cornwall. The project aimed to acknowledge the seaside location without resorting to obvious nautical clichés. Their design approach focused on creating a character for the imagined owner, an ‘eccentric sea captain,’ which guided their aesthetic choices. Instead of lighthouses or stripes, they incorporated architectural details such as shiplap cladding and aged stone cobbles to anchor the building in its environment. Intriguing elements like framed ships’ flags and decorative coastal birds suggest a collector's eye for the unique, moving beyond typical coastal decor. The clients, Jessica and Ash Alken-Theasby, owners of Atlanta Trevone, a luxury holiday rental property, decided to convert the dilapidated net loft into a fifth rental property. The building, which Jessica's great-uncle once used to store boats, was envisioned as Atlanta's eccentric relative, requiring a design that offered a sense of escapism. Tom and Kate Cox collaborated closely with Jessica and Ash, who also own the bespoke construction company Alkenby. This partnership allowed them to rebuild the loft and fine-tune every detail to achieve interiors that exude a timeless, established feel. Key design elements contributed to this aesthetic. For example, the main living room features beautifully aged cheeseboards individually selected by Tom for the timber flooring. The kitchen cabinetry employs a scumble paint effect, mimicking old mahogany furniture, adding to the folk art appeal. Kate highlighted the cabin-style bed in the main bedroom as a playful yet initially contentious element that ultimately proved popular with guests. The color palette predominantly uses blues, with each tone carefully chosen to complement the natural surroundings. Tom described these colors as having a powdery, mineral quality that brings warmth, making the space feel fresh and uplifting on sunny days and cozy during winter with a log burner lit. Wall decor enhances the whimsical atmosphere, incorporating folk art, flags, signs, and commissioned maritime paintings that evoke the naive style of sailors’ woolwork. Another distinctive area is the surf gallery, a functional space for parking cars and drying wetsuits, which adopts a Californian vibe. This is achieved through elements like a carved marlin trophy and a vintage Tigger Newling surfboard belonging to Jessica’s father. Jessica recounted the magical experience of staying in the loft with her children before its official opening, describing it as a wonderful journey into something exciting and unknown. The designers, Kate and Tom Cox, emphasized storytelling, the transformative impact of details like the scumble paint finish, and their go-to color, an earthy red. They characterize their style as eclectic, timeless, and whimsical, drawing inspiration from their family business dynamics and collective influences. Their philosophy is that a home should be comfortable, relaxed, and not taken too seriously. #CoastalStyle #WhimsicalDesign #FishermansCottage #HamInteriors #HolidayRental #NorthCornwall #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #EclecticDecor

Ted Kennedy Watson, a Washington-based style expert, author, lifestyle blogger, and proprietor of Watson Kennedy stores, owns a 650-square-foot Vashon Island getaway in Puget Sound with his husband, Ted Sive. The couple named their retreat “WestWard” to personalize the space, a practice Ted highly recommends for any dwelling. Upon purchasing the property, it was in disrepair, characterized by dark interiors and an absence of appealing aesthetics. The couple decided to preserve the existing Americana theme, prompted by a 35-foot flagpole on the property and the home's rich red exterior. The name “WestWard” is subtly integrated into the home's decor, appearing both inside and out, symbolized by a pair of 'W's. To brighten the interior, French doors were installed, significantly increasing natural light. All dark, knotty pine surfaces were painted a crisp white, serving as a neutral backdrop for the red, white, and blue Americana accents. The living room features a sofa and chairs upholstered in ticking stripe fabric, with reversible cushions showcasing a red stripe. French dish towels were ingeniously repurposed to create a slipcover for the ottoman, showcasing creative solutions for furnishing a small space. The home also integrates various collections, such as an assortment of artwork above a red desk painted with stars and stripes. Storage is maximized through functional displays, exemplified by McCoy pottery on bookshelves, which doubles as hidden storage for small items like matches, old birds' nests, keys, and a wallet. The kitchen, designed for two cooking enthusiasts, balances functionality with style. It features stainless steel countertops and open upper shelving for easy access and display of kitchenware. A key element is a butcher-block-topped rolling island, which serves multiple purposes, from a prep station by the sink to a mobile bar on the deck. Creative storage solutions extend to a collection of jam jars, repurposed to store various household items like nuts, spices, and cough drops, highlighting the concept that anything can become a collection. The bedroom continues the nautical theme with seafaring flags, anchor pillows, and vintage lockers used as nightstands. Ted also created a sleeping porch, an outdoor bed in a covered area, ideal for enjoying the outdoors even in the rain. For waterside dining, Ted enjoys mixing vintage patterns for tableware, encouraging the use of mismatched silverware, plates, glasses, and napkins. Unique tabletop decor includes a collection of vintage pool balls, specifically those with the number 11, and natural elements like hydrangea leaves used as place cards. An adjacent tree house features a wall adorned with pages from vintage maritime and bird-watching books, an artistic touch by Amy Duncan that has withstood the elements over time. Despite the home's small footprint, various distinct areas like the downstairs landing, where Ted, Ted Sive, and their schnauzer Bailey relax, contribute to a feeling of spaciousness, ensuring the couple never feels constrained by the size of their home. #TinyHome #PugetSound #VashonIsland #AmericanaDecor #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CreativeStorage #NauticalTheme

This article showcases a new build with a chic farmhouse cottage feel, situated on a popular golf course. The home, part of Midwest Home's 2018 Luxury Home Tour, is located in Lake Elmo and was built by TJB Homes. It features a five-bedroom, five-bathroom, 4,700-square-foot design. The owner, Tom Budzynski, aimed to create unique areas within every space. The exterior of the home features a charming paver courtyard with a water feature, leading up to the front door. The design incorporates traditional cottage-inspired elements. Inside, an open-concept living area with large windows offers picturesque views of The Royal Club, an Arnold Palmer and Annika Sorenstam-designed championship golf course. The great room is defined by a stunning cathedral ceiling with white shiplap and dark wood beams. It includes a natural stone fireplace, built-in features, and oak flooring. The large windows in both the great room and the adjacent dining area emphasize the scenic outdoor views. A spacious deck off the main floor is designed for outdoor entertaining. Throughout the house, dark-stained wood and oak details are consistently used. The kitchen is anchored by a large white oak island with a light quartz countertop, complemented by a white oak range hood, granite countertops, and separate refrigerator and freezer units with a prep area in between. The master bedroom stands out with an eye-catching tiered ceiling featuring floating dark wood beams. A sliding barn door provides a farmhouse touch, leading to two separate large walk-in closets. These closets are located off the luxurious master bath, which is equipped with ceramic tiles, a soaking tub, and a rain shower. The lower level is designed for entertainment, featuring a striking glassed-in wine cellar adjacent to a wet bar. Across from the wet bar is a dining area that opens to a sizable outdoor patio. A bank of bar-inspired seating faces an inviting family room, which includes a stone fireplace and built-in cabinets. In addition to two extra bedrooms, the lower level also houses an exercise space, a billiards room, and a sauna. The overall aesthetic is described as upscale yet understated. #RusticCharm #LuxuryHomeTour #TJBHomess #FarmhouseStyle #GolfCourseLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeBuilding #ModernCottage #LakeElmo

The Rowan is the newest tiny house model introduced by the online marketplace, Tiny House Listings. This 34-foot-long (10-meter) tiny house distinguishes itself with a useful porch area and an expansive interior layout, uniquely arranged on a single floor. While its length is comparable to many North American tiny houses, its increased width of 10 feet (3 meters) — 1.5 feet wider than the standard 8.5 feet (2.6 meters) — contributes significantly to a more spacious and home-like feel inside. However, this extra width necessitates a permit for towing on public roads in the USA, making it less ideal for frequent relocation. The Rowan is constructed on a six-axle trailer, a notable feature that suggests a design choice to distribute weight effectively. The exterior is finished with engineered board and batten wood, complemented by a metal roof, ensuring durability and a contemporary aesthetic. The interior boasts drywall finishes, providing a clean and modern canvas for residents. Access to the home is through a 6-foot (1.8-meter) porch, which leads into the living room via double glass doors. The living area is well-lit with generous glazing and is designed to accommodate a sofa, a TV, and a cabinet, creating a comfortable space for relaxation. Adjacent to the living room is the kitchen, which is equipped with an induction stove and a sink. It offers ample cabinetry and designated space for additional appliances, catering to practical cooking needs. A breakfast bar with seating for two further enhances the kitchen's functionality, serving as a casual dining or workspace. Moving deeper into the tiny house, past the living and kitchen areas, is the bathroom. This facility includes a shower, a sink, a flushing toilet, and some storage, providing essential amenities within a compact footprint. One of the most significant design aspects of the Rowan is its single-floor layout, particularly evident in the bedroom. Unlike many tiny houses that feature loft bedrooms requiring occupants to crawl, the Rowan’s bedroom offers ample headroom, allowing residents to stand and move around comfortably. Located at the opposite end of the house from the entrance, the bedroom is designed to accommodate a queen-sized bed. It also includes a large built-in closet and washer/dryer hookups, maximizing convenience and storage within the limited space. The Rowan is currently available for purchase at US$92,000. This model aligns with Tiny House Listings' recent offerings, which include the larger duplex-style TinyPlex and the more budget-friendly Cortado, showcasing the marketplace's diverse range of tiny home solutions. The Rowan represents a practical yet comfortable option for individuals or couples seeking a tiny house experience with an emphasis on interior spaciousness and a semi-outdoor living component provided by its porch. #TinyHouses #TinyHouseDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #MobileHomes #AffordableHousing #CompactLiving #MinimalistLiving #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

The project involved the renovation of a 1960s home and the addition of a compact, single-story extension in British Columbia, Canada. The property, situated at the end of a suburban street, is characterized by rocky outcrops, mature fir and oak trees, and expansive 180-degree views of an inlet. The clients' vision for a new residence on this sensitive, waterfront site led to a solution focused on minimal ecological impact by retaining and renovating the existing structure, alongside the new addition. Strict waterfront setback regulations played a pivotal role in shaping the design of the addition, which accommodates the primary bedroom and en suite. These regulations necessitated an irregularly shaped building envelope. The design of the new volume features a minimal footprint, carefully touching the terrain with recessed concrete foundation walls to prevent extensive excavation in the marine-protected area. The structure itself is designed to appear as though it is hovering, with its roof dramatically soaring 13 feet above a cantilevered screen wall that extends to a sharp point. Access to the home is orchestrated by a colonnade-lined staircase that directs visitors to the front door. The addition is clad in light-stained cedar, creating a visual contrast with the original house's shed-roof forms and dark finishes, which are intended to echo the granite shoreline. In terms of landscaping, patios and pathways are seamlessly integrated with the site's native vegetation and natural topography. The design incorporates expansive windows, some with concealed frames to blur the distinction between interior and exterior spaces, and others strategically placed to frame specific vistas. These windows are instrumental in capturing the changing light and ocean reflections, thereby animating the interior spaces throughout the day. The project was completed by Splyce Design, with Mdrn Built as the builder, Aspect Engineers handling structural engineering, and Andrew van Egmond responsible for landscape design. Ema Peter provided the photography for the project. #HomeRenovation #CantileveredExtension #WaterfrontProperty #SplyceDesign #BritishColumbiaArchitecture #MidcenturyModern #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation