The Transformation of a Historic Schoolhouse into a Chic Abode

This article details the transformation of a neglected Federal-style schoolhouse in the Catskills into a glamorous and chic home, dubbed "Monkey Cottage," by lifestyle editor Jason Oliver Nixon and decorator John Loecke. The duo discovered the 900-square-foot former schoolhouse, built around 1840, listed for $30,000. Despite its dilapidated state—featuring no closets, low second-floor ceilings, and multiple layers of wallpaper and paint—they saw its potential. After purchasing the property, a pipe burst and the ceiling caved in a week later, leading to a complete gut renovation. Much of the work was undertaken by John and Jason themselves, with assistance from Jason's uncle Lary and father, Jary. A year of renovation resulted in a vibrant weekend retreat characterized by bold colors, playful prints, and a spirit of fun. The homeowners emphasize their commitment to preserving the original architectural style while imbuing the home with their personal touch. The kitchen, which also serves as the dining area due to the absence of a formal dining room, features striking black cabinetry, white marble counters, and a unique display of vintage state plates instead of upper cabinets. A circular window was added, mirroring an existing one on the home's facade. To address the lack of closets, built-in drawers and storage cubbies were incorporated throughout the house. A distinctive railing inspired by a Chinese garden bridge was installed, adding an exotic touch. The bathroom features faux paneling crafted from 4x4s, contributing to the cottage's unique aesthetic. The homeowners' passion for collecting is evident in the flea-market equestrian prints displayed against a chocolate-brown wall and a collection of colored tableware, which John strategically uses to make small spaces appear larger by employing a few substantial furniture pieces. The vibrant master bedroom is a testament to their love for color, with sunny-yellow paint and a lively green-and-white print that energizes the small space. To maximize functionality in the bedroom, a carpenter was hired to convert a three-foot-high gap created by the low-pitched roof into bookshelves on one side and cabinets and storage drawers on the other. John provides design advice on combining patterns, suggesting that a common color scheme prevents clashes and recommending the use of no more than two large-scale prints, with other patterns kept geometric. Collections, such as glassware and antique garden statuary, are meticulously arranged by color, type, and theme on walls and open shelving. The eclectic living room combines furniture of various sizes and heights to maintain visual interest. The design draws inspiration from classic English country interiors but is reinterpreted with unconventional elements like silver scallop sconces, giraffe print pillows, and a tropical-inspired chandelier. Ribbons are utilized throughout the house to embellish curtains, lampshades, and pillows, offering an inexpensive and versatile decorating solution. John's book, "John Loecke's Grosgrain Style," provides creative ribbon-based DIY projects, including a layered ribbon square that can be created with a hot-glue gun. The article highlights the transformation from a neglected building to a personalized and stylish home, emphasizing creative problem-solving and the thoughtful integration of personal style and collections. #SchoolhouseRenovation #CatskillsHome #HomeTransformation #InteriorDesign #EclecticDecor #DIYRenovation #SmallSpaceLiving #VintageFinds #ColorSchemes

In the Italian region of Puglia, architect Andrew Trotter undertook the transformation of a former all-girls school, closed since the 1960s, into a residential home. The property, known as Casolare Scarani, presented a unique opportunity, being smaller than the grand masserie and more characterful than typical farm outbuildings found in the area. Trotter, who has experience with various housing projects near Carovigno, identified the building's potential due to its historic charm and manageable size. The renovation began just before the 2020 pandemic when an Australian family, friends of Trotter, decided to purchase the property. Ian Coleman viewed the school in person, while his wife Maree made the decision based on photographs. The initial phase of the renovation involved a collaborative effort to strip layers of peeling paint from the arcade, revealing the original stone beneath. This arcade now forms part of a three-bedroom and one-bathroom suite on the second floor. The original garage was repurposed into a kitchen, and a stable became the dining room. For the two ground-floor bathrooms, Trotter added a white cubed extension that seamlessly integrates with the historical structure. Trotter's signature design approach, characterized by Mediterranean Minimalism, is evident throughout the renovated home. White lime plaster was extensively used on walls and ceilings, creating a soft, powdery finish that enhances the rounded arches and vaults, making them appear as if carved from limestone. This aesthetic achieves a balance between minimalist simplicity and warm comfort. The architect preserved and relaid old stones, while other areas feature Chianca porcelain tiles. Historical elements such as a star vault and a large living room fireplace were retained and integrated with new additions like shelves and wall niches. The interior decor incorporates local ceramics, crafts, antique wooden furniture, and natural textiles, all while retaining a rich patina that nods to the building's past without appearing outdated. The transformation highlights Trotter's skill in adapting historical structures for modern living while respecting their heritage. Specific changes include converting the original garage into a kitchen, the stable into a dining room, and developing a three-bedroom, one-bathroom area on the second floor, which was previously a classroom. The new cubed extension for the ground-floor bathrooms demonstrates a contemporary intervention that complements the historic core. The project successfully reimagines an obsolete educational facility into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home, blending traditional Puglian architecture with a modern, minimalist sensibility. #Puglia #Italy #AndrewTrotter #SchoolConversion #HistoricRenovation #MediterraneanMinimalism #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalTransformation #InteriorDesign

The article showcases a top-floor condominium located within the former West Queen Anne Elementary School in Seattle, a building recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. This historic school, which closed in 1981, was subsequently converted into 49 residential units in 1984, serving as a significant example of preserving surplus educational buildings. The specific condo featured is on the top floor and includes a sunny deck integrated into the roofline, making it one of 12 such units in the building. It offers a bright and spacious living environment with high ceilings. The interior has been thoroughly updated to reflect contemporary design aesthetics, featuring a galley-style kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, quartz countertops, subway tiles, and European white oak floors. A notable design element in the living room includes wall panels that subtly reference the building's historical character. These panels also cleverly conceal a twin-size Murphy bed and an entertainment center, blending modern functionality with vintage charm. The design philosophy of the condo, as described by listing agent Susan Mudarri, successfully merges the best of both historical preservation and contemporary living. The large, loft-style bedroom is illuminated by a skylight and features modern cable railings and recessed lighting, contributing to a minimalist and airy atmosphere. The unit also includes an en suite bathroom, an additional half-bath downstairs, a stacked washer and dryer, and custom closet cabinetry, ensuring practical needs are met while maintaining a clean aesthetic. The location of the condominium offers convenient access to local amenities in the Queen Anne community, such as Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream and Caffe Fiore, which are situated on the same street. The Queen Anne branch of the Seattle Public Library, also a National Register of Historic Places peer to the school, is just a block away. The neighborhood provides various recreational opportunities including pickleball courts, parks, and pizzerias, fostering a rich urban lifestyle. Historian Larry Kreisman noted that the successful conversion of the West Queen Anne Elementary School into residential units required a unique combination of factors. The community's efforts to save the building from demolition in the 1970s played a crucial role in its preservation and subsequent transformation. This communal spirit is noted to persist, with neighbors actively engaging in mutual support, such as watching packages and welcoming new residents. The article highlights that the building's historical integrity and its modern residential functionality are beautifully maintained. #PropertyWatch #QueenAnne #Condominiums #HistoricPreservation #ArchitecturalConversion #SeattleRealEstate #UrbanLiving #HomeDesign

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Federal-style town house in New York’s West Village by SPAN Architecture, converting it from multi-family apartments into a single-family residence. The original structure, an 1820s building, presented challenges such as deep lots leading to dark interiors, insufficient natural light on lower floors, and low ceilings. Recognizing these limitations and the absence of significant period details for restoration, principals Peter Pelsinski and Karen Stonely opted for a comprehensive gut renovation. A key aspect of the renovation capitalized on the property’s 60-foot backyard, enabling the architects to extend the first two floors by 30 feet while preserving ample outdoor space. To enhance the connection to the garden, the rear facade was removed, a second-floor terrace was added, and full-height windows were installed facing north, integrating modern design elements while respecting the historic lines of the surrounding houses. Internally, the building lacked a cellar, prompting excavation to create one. The roof was also leveled, increasing interior height by nearly eight feet, which required careful restructuring of ceilings to align with the existing front facade windows. The result is a 5,800-square-foot, four-bedroom home spanning five levels, featuring ceilings over ten feet high on the parlor floor, yet maintaining an unaltered exterior appearance. The interior design consciously blends traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Given the project's spec nature, a neutral palette was chosen, featuring white oak floors that establish a fluid connection between spaces. Subtle historical references are incorporated through baseboards, trim, and crown moldings. The steel-and-oak staircase, while traditional in form, lacks nosing and respects the original footprint, complemented by skylights that draw natural light deep into the lower levels, giving the house an “extroverted character” as Pelsinski describes. The property was acquired by a young family who enlisted Moises Esquenazi of Waowig Studio for interior decoration, providing him considerable artistic freedom. Esquenazi focused on creating inviting spaces that would complement the family’s art collection. His design approach included bold choices, such as a fuchsia-colored den, intended as a lively focal point upon entry. This vibrant room sets a playful tone for the rest of the home, which integrates contemporary Latin American art with pieces by mid-century designers like Milo Baughman and Pierre Guariche. Esquenazi also designed custom furnishings, including a lacquered-goatskin dining table, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. Two years after the family moved in, SPAN Architecture was re-engaged to modernize the kitchen and expand the master bathroom into a spa-like retreat, concluding a decade-long project. The revitalized town house now offers a bright, open living environment, seamlessly integrated into its urban setting while providing ample personal space. #TownHouseRenovation #SPANArchitecture #WestVillage #HistoricHome #ModernInteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #InteriorRenovation #LuxuryHomes

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a century-old Sydney home, originally built in 1914, transforming it into a modern family residence. The property, located on a corner block near Centennial Park, underwent extensive refurbishment after being purchased in 2017 by a young professional couple. The house was in a state of disrepair, requiring new wiring, plumbing, a new kitchen, and repairs to a collapsing ceiling. The owners enlisted architect Carla Middleton to oversee the project, aiming to create a 'forever home' suitable for a growing family. Middleton describes the original house as dilapidated but an amazing blank canvas. The renovation strategy involved reducing the number of bedrooms from six to three, which would be housed in a newly constructed second storey. Conversely, the number of bathrooms was increased to four, plus a powder room, emphasizing quality over quantity in terms of sleeping quarters. On the ground level, the design focused on creating expansive living areas. The original front rooms were preserved and repurposed as family rooms, a study, and a sitting room. Great care was taken to restore original features such as skirtings, cornices, fireplaces, and stained-glass windows, maintaining the home's historic charm. A key design objective was to implement an open-plan living concept, moving away from the smaller, separated rooms of the previous home. The new extension at the rear features an 11x8-meter living space that seamlessly connects to a sun-drenched deck. Given the home's north-south orientation, a primary goal was to maximize natural light in this area. Carla Middleton achieved this through a striking void space that reaches 6.7 meters at its highest point and extensive glazing. This design ensures that the northern light floods the living/dining area and extends to the upstairs bedrooms overlooking the void. The exterior of the extension, clad in James Hardie Scyon cement-composite boards, contrasts with the original brick structure while subtly referencing its form through a new roofline composed of three gables. These gables correspond to the kitchen, dining, and living zones downstairs. The original hallway was also maintained as a central axis, creating a clear vista from the front door to the light-filled rear living space. For the interior design, Carla Middleton collaborated with the owners to establish a palette that blends her neutral, natural material preference with their crisp, contemporary style and appreciation for darker tones. This resulted in an interplay of black, white, and mid-grey hues, complemented by stone elements throughout the home. The kitchen, a focal point for entertaining, exemplifies this blend with black and white cabinetry by Holtz Joinery and Elba marble benchtops and splashback, featuring a substantial 4x1.3-meter island bench. The renovation was completed as the family grew, with the owners welcoming two children during the project, making the newly transformed space a comfortable and functional home. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #ModernExtension #SydneyArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #NaturalLightDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CarlaMiddletonArchitect #AustralianHomes

Architect James Davies, founder of Paper House Project, undertook an ambitious endeavor to convert a derelict former schoolhouse in Hackney, London, into his personal two-bedroom residence. This challenging project, completed by October 2022, transformed a dilapidated brick structure into a high-ceilinged, concrete-floored home, showcasing Davies' vision and determination. The site presented significant hurdles, including being landlocked, lacking existing utility services, and navigating complex access negotiations with surrounding freeholders and leaseholders. Davies described these issues as challenges rather than obstacles, requiring immense patience and unwavering confidence to resolve, including extending new electric and water connections via a 90-meter trench across third-party land. Davies' architectural approach focused on restoring the original brick envelope of the building while implementing a modern interior design. He collaborated with engineers to minimize visible structural elements, thereby maximizing the double-height spaces and enhancing the sense of openness. A key design feature is the incorporation of new gridded steel-frame windows and an inner courtyard, which together flood the interiors with natural light and create a unique sense of volume, uncommon in typical London homes. Davies noted that the abundant natural light, height, and volume significantly contribute to mood and well-being, emphasizing the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the internal courtyard, which helps to create a serene environment despite the property's proximity to busy Hackney high streets. The interior aesthetic draws inspiration from industrial and warehouse conversions, influenced by notable structures such as the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, Liverpool's Albert Docks, and the warehouse living styles prevalent in New York City. Davies consciously selected a limited palette of materials, predominantly concrete and steel surfaces, to achieve a smooth, stylized industrial look throughout the home. This choice of materials, combined with elements like a black marble splash-back, oak veneer door fronts, and a spruce-paneled staircase, introduces contrasting materialities that add depth and character to the design. Practical solutions were devised to overcome site access limitations, such as fabricating large components off-site and ensuring they were light enough to be manually carried through the courtyard by two people. Steel A-frame trusses with cable rod connections were ingeniously embedded to support the new slate roof, demonstrating innovative structural solutions. The downstairs living spaces are subtly divided by the staircase, maintaining an open feel while delineating functional areas. Wooden interior panels are strategically used to soften the white walls, adding warmth to the industrial aesthetic. Davies encapsulated the essence of the house's ambiance with a single word: 'calm', reflecting the successful creation of a tranquil urban dwelling from a complex, derelict site. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #LondonRealEstate #HackneyHome #ConversionProject #IndustrialAesthetic #PaperHouseProject #ArchitecturalRenovation

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign

This article details the transformation of a 1925 Colonial home in Seattle's Montlake neighborhood, owned by Sally and Anders Zwartjes. The couple purchased the 3,000-square-foot house in 2016, drawn to its charm but recognizing the need for significant updates to accommodate a family of four, particularly the limited one and a half bathrooms and outdated features. Designer Casey Keasler of CASEWORK, a family friend, was enlisted to lead the extensive renovation. The project spanned a year and a half and involved both cosmetic changes, such as new flooring and fresh paint, and dramatic structural modifications. A 500-square-foot addition was integrated into the home, expanding its overall footprint. The primary goal was to modernize the living space for a contemporary family while respectfully preserving the colonial style and original architectural elements. Keasler emphasized the importance of functionality, collaborating with architect Paul Crowther to secure permits before focusing on the aesthetic details. A key aspect of the renovation involved altering the home's original layout to better suit the family's needs. This included the decision to convert one of the four original bedrooms into a full second bathroom, prioritizing utility over adherence to traditional room counts. This strategic choice highlights a flexible approach to renovation, where individual family requirements dictate design decisions rather than rigid conventions. The addition also included a larger kitchen, a significant item on Sally and Anders' wish list. This new kitchen features a classic white design, a breakfast nook, a pantry, and a mudroom, contributing to a brighter and more open feel throughout the home. The window-lined breakfast nook, in particular, was designed as a central gathering space for the family. Keasler aimed to balance the inherent seriousness and symmetry of colonial architecture with a more relaxed, Northwest aesthetic. This equilibrium was achieved through deliberate contrasts. Existing period details such as built-ins, cove ceilings, crown molding, and oak floors were maintained and refreshed. The millwork and built-ins, for example, replicated the intricate details of the original cabinetry, including the bead on the inside cabinet panels, ensuring consistency with the home's historical character. To introduce modern elements and create visual interest, Keasler incorporated contemporary furniture and light fixtures, often in mid-century, Scandinavian, or modern styles. Graphic-style rugs were also used to provide a modern accent against the traditional backdrop. The designer's tips for blending old and new include maintaining consistency with metal finishes, refreshing existing features like built-ins with new paint and hardware, and unifying the home's trim and molding with a consistent color and varying sheens to achieve a modern look. This project demonstrates that a careful integration of historical preservation and modern functionality can create a home that is both charming and highly livable. #ColonialHome #HomeRenovation #ModernFacelift #InteriorDesign #SeattleRealEstate #HistoricalPreservation #StructuralChanges #KitchenDesign #ContemporaryLiving

This article details the transformation of a formal center-hall Colonial home in Canton into a light, airy, and casual space, a challenge undertaken by mother-daughter interior designers Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible. The clients, whose tastes lean traditional, sought a refreshed aesthetic for their long-standing residence. The renovation began in the kitchen, located at the back of the house, which was initially made brighter through the addition of skylights by the builder. The designers' role involved selecting fixtures and finishes to imbue warmth into the all-white kitchen the clients desired. To achieve this, the designers incorporated nickel gap and walnut beams to visually break up the extensive ceiling in the large, cabinetry-filled space. A warm white paint, Benjamin Moore Cotton Balls, served as a foundational creamy hue, complemented by oil-rubbed bronze accents and a hammered copper sink, with the bronze hardware's subtle gold undertones adding depth. A custom walnut top on the dining island introduced a rich contrast to the quartzite used on the perimeter and prep island. The connection between the kitchen and breakfast nook was enhanced by widening the opening, allowing more natural light to flood the spaces. Hayward noted that sunlight now streams directly into the nook, drawing attention to this area, which was further embellished with a textural wallpaper featuring oversized leaves. The breakfast nook also features a curved banquette, strategically implemented to maximize the natural light and views of the surrounding greenery. This design choice also resolved a furniture layout challenge, as the clients' original table and chairs did not fit centrally. Positioning them with a banquette in a corner created a cozy gathering spot. In the front of the house, an office, already featuring new, traditional walnut millwork, was transformed into a feminine retreat. The design process for this room started with selecting wallpaper, with the client being drawn to Lee Jofa panels by Aerin, which provided an old European, romantic garden feel. Complementary elements included a subdued neutral rug, a velvety blue chair, and a distressed iron chandelier adorned with glass crystals. A key objective for the designers was to ensure that the refreshed home did not appear to be recently redone. Schaible emphasized that the design aimed for an aesthetic where everything seemed to have always been in place, belonging naturally within the home's existing character. The article also provides resources for the interior design services and the carpenter involved in the project, along with a correction regarding the carpenter's phone number. #HomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #ColonialHome #KitchenRenovation #BreakfastNook #HomeOfficeDesign #TraditionalStyle #ResidentialDesign #CantonMassachusetts

Architect and designer Kartik Desai, along with his husband Zane Philstrom, transformed an abandoned mobile home property in Southold, North Fork of Long Island, New York, into a modern, cost-effective family residence with breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. The couple purchased the dilapidated property in 2012, initially using it as a campsite while they designed their dream home, emphasizing the stunning natural surroundings as the primary inspiration. The design philosophy centered on maximizing the Long Island Sound view, ensuring every room and the swimming pool faced the water. To achieve this vision while adhering to budget constraints, Desai implemented several clever cost-cutting solutions. For instance, in the living room, instead of an expensive custom sectional, they opted for an affordable IKEA sectional and customized it with removable, washable linen covers from Bemz, providing both a polished look and practical maintenance for a beach house environment. The living room also features a massive 12-foot hearth fireplace that doubles as a bench, and a clever panel concealing the television. The dining room, kitchen, and living area were designed as a cohesive communal space. A continuous bank of sliding doors along the ground floor was a key design element to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. To avoid the high cost of a custom 50-foot sliding door system, they utilized four standard-width bay units. These were then integrated seamlessly with natural oak finishes, extending to cabinetry and using cabinet face material to fill the gaps, making it appear as a single, custom system. Desai highlights this as an example of making standard-sized elements look bespoke. In the kitchen, budget-friendly material swaps were crucial. The original plan for concrete floors, countertops, and fireplace surround was deemed too expensive. Instead, large format tiles from Porcelanosa were used for the floor, and quartz for the countertops and fireplace surround. These alternatives provided a similar aesthetic to concrete but offered benefits such as durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance. The open kitchen design allows Philstrom, an avid cook, to engage with guests in the dining and living areas or by the pool. The bedrooms and bathrooms also maintain continuity with the home's overall aesthetic and practical design. Bedrooms offer serene views of the ocean, with furniture from brands like CB2, Blu Dot, Parachute, and IKEA. The bathroom similarly boasts sweeping views of the Long Island Sound, utilizing the same practical and durable materials as the main living areas, with fixtures from Kohler, mirrors from Rejuvenation, and tiles from Porcelanosa. This strategic approach to design and material selection enabled the couple to create a sophisticated, zen-like Hamptons home without exceeding their budget, transforming an uninhabitable structure into a modern sanctuary. #HomeDesign #CostSavingTips #HamptonsHome #ModernArchitecture #DIYDesign #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #OceanViewHome #SustainableLiving

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

An outdated mid-century home in El Segundo, California, underwent a significant transformation, evolving into a two-story residence while meticulously preserving its original character. Interior designer Alexis Vitale of Vitale Design Group recognized the home's potential despite its dated finishes and disjointed layout. The clients desired a living space that could accommodate their growing family, emphasizing warmth, honesty in materials, and a natural flow, all while respecting the home's mid-century roots. The design approach centered on honoring classic mid-century architecture, incorporating clean lines, natural materials, and ample natural light, while integrating a refined, contemporary aesthetic. The project, a collaboration between Vitale and architect Brett Horton, aimed to enhance flow, light, and livability, treating the renovation as an uncovering of a 'precious stone' to reveal its true beauty. A pivotal element in the redesign was tile, particularly the fluted concrete tile by Kinney Block, which was used on the exterior and served as an 'architectural heartbeat' for the home. Its sculptural quality influenced the overall form and texture throughout the property. The interior palette was inspired by moody green tiles in the kitchen, leading to a sophisticated scheme of earthy greens balanced with walnut and wenge woods. Structural modifications included expanding the layout and adding a second story to improve the home's functionality. The kitchen is identified as the true heart of the home, showcasing a blend of mid-century charm and modern sophistication. It features lush green tiles, a fluted island, a leathered quartzite slab, and sculptural concrete pendants, all contributing to a warm and deep ambiance. The kitchen seamlessly transitions into the living room, which then leads to a dining room featuring a custom bookcase and the home's original fireplace. Skylights were incorporated to maximize natural light in these communal areas. The upper level of the home includes a tranquil primary suite, designed with a sumptuous blue velvet bed, dark woods, textured grass cloth, pitched ceilings, and leathered sconces. The primary bathroom offers a spa-like experience, enhanced by abundant natural light from skylights. Additional rooms upstairs include a playful, color-drenched kids' bedroom with vintage touches and guest bathrooms featuring interesting tile and terrazzo flooring. A notable addition on the second floor is an adults' hangout area, a bar featuring mid-century-inspired tile and wood, complemented by a deep orange sofa for lounging. The renovation carefully maintained the home's architectural DNA, retaining its clean lines, organic materials, and connection to nature, while modernizing its proportions and details. Every material choice, from the fluted concrete chimney to walnut millwork and plaster finishes, was selected to refresh the mid-century palette. New elements such as custom lighting, handcrafted tile, and thoughtful layering were integrated to respect the original design language and adapt it for contemporary living. The project, nicknamed 'The Jewel,' successfully transformed a dated residence into a home that reflects the homeowners' identity, blending mid-century character with modern life for effortless, timeless, and beautiful living. #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ElSegundo #VitaleDesignGroup #HomeTransformation #ArchitecturalRedesign #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor

This Melbourne residence, owned by artist Kylie Thomas and her husband Tim Collier, underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a Federation home with a dated 1990s extension into a versatile space that functions both as a grand art gallery and a comfortable family sanctuary. When the couple acquired the property in 2015, they were drawn to its generous garden and the original Federation architecture, characterized by ornate timber detailing, bay windows, and a wraparound verandah. However, the existing open-plan addition from the 1990s presented challenges with poor flow, lack of zoning, and an awkward 45-degree angle that didn't integrate seamlessly with the older part of the house. The prevalent red timbers also contributed to an outdated aesthetic. Architect Chris Stanley of Splinter Society was tasked with a multi-faceted brief: to incorporate concrete's monumentality, which the owners appreciated, while maintaining sensitivity to the heritage home's elegant and flamboyant details. Additionally, a coastal feel, with weathered, driftwood tones, was desired to soften the concrete elements. The overarching goal was to harmoniously blend contrasting styles—old and new, grandeur and family warmth—and ensure a seamless connection with the extensive backyard. Stanley addressed the 1990s addition by replacing it with a new extension featuring a striking colonnade of windows framing the pool. These concrete columns visually echo the timber uprights of the Federation verandah, establishing a commonality between the heritage and modern sections. The colonnade extends throughout the new areas, mitigating sunlight and providing a monumental presence without being overwhelming. Infilled with banquettes and lit with spotlights, these spaces also serve as display areas for Kylie's art. A new entry on the south side now acts as a clear transition point between the old and new, creating distinct zones for family living. The original section of the house, previously a living room, has been reconfigured to house the children's bedrooms, each with an ensuite, emphasizing private spaces. The new open-plan extension, while maintaining connectivity, is effectively zoned by the columns, which function as nib walls, allowing family members to engage in different activities simultaneously. The material palette includes light-toned concrete, chosen to evoke a washed, coastal aesthetic, complemented by limed timber floors in the original section. The design prioritizes warmth through the strategic use of timber, curtains, and rugs, and incorporates judicious pops of color in furnishings, selected with the assistance of interior designer Danielle Balscheit. The kitchen, designed as a central gathering space, integrates the colonnade and concrete with metal-framed windows, a scalloped metal bench finish, and a soaring raked ceiling with a skylight, enhancing natural light. This area fosters a strong indoor-outdoor connection with views of the meadow, creating a feeling of spaciousness and height. The home also features practical considerations like heated concrete floors, providing comfort year-round. This thoughtful renovation has successfully transformed the property into a dynamic space that balances the homeowner's artistic inclinations with the needs of a modern family, bridging historical elegance with contemporary design. #HeritageHomeRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalTransformation #ConcreteDesign #ArtGalleryHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalInteriors #IndoorOutdoorFlow #FederationArchitecture

This article details the transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in Philadelphia's Main Line suburbs into a modern family home with transitional design elements. The property, untouched for over a decade, was in a state of disrepair with failing windows and siding, an untreated cedar roof, a caving patio, and outdated interiors described as 'screaming late 90s'. The renovation was undertaken by PS & Daughters, led by founder Phoebe Schuh, who was drawn to the historical character of the house despite its challenges. The clients, a blended family with a wide age range of children, sought a home that honored its architecture while supporting a modern lifestyle. They also possessed a world-class art collection that needed to be integrated into the design. The primary objective was to create a transitional home, blending the best of old and new to achieve a relaxed elegance and comfort, without being overly precious, while incorporating sumptuous velvets, mixed patterns, and layered textures. The extensive remodel resulted in a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family residence equipped with contemporary amenities such as a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and games room. Throughout the house, custom-made modern pieces are seamlessly combined with vintage finds, ensuring a balance between historical nods and modern functionality. One of the favorite spaces for the designer was the master bathroom, reimagined as a luxurious wet room clad in Calcutta marble. The design incorporated a client's specific request for a window in the shower, leading to a massive shower area, a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab bench, and intricate mosaics on the ceiling, all complemented by brass fixtures. For the children, a vibrant and functional playroom was designed. It features a jungle gym, an oversized jewel-toned mural depicting dreamy mountain tops, and a custom-built arched reading nook, catering to various age groups from teens to toddlers. The project encountered significant construction challenges, including failed stucco on the backside of the house. This was resolved by removing the stucco, properly sealing the home, and installing a new exterior elevation with bright white siding, a stone veneer foundation, a limestone patio, a glass railing, and a mahogany handrail. A unique, last-minute challenge involved rerouting a direct hot water line from the heater to the master suite shower to address a client's concern about water temperature, showcasing the team's commitment to client satisfaction. Ultimately, the farmhouse was transformed from a neglected historic property into a contemporary family haven, characterized by bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, all while maintaining a respectful connection to its original architectural style. The project exemplifies transitional design, achieving a sophisticated yet comfortable aesthetic for modern family living. #TransitionalFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ModernAmenities #CustomDesign