2022 Idea House Plan: Build The Great Escape

This comprehensive guide details the design elements and sources used throughout the 2023 Southern Living Idea House, situated in Tennessee. It offers an in-depth, room-by-room breakdown of all materials, furnishings, appliances, and decorative items chosen by designer Laura Hodges. The article serves as a resource for those seeking inspiration or looking to replicate specific design aspects from the house. The guide begins by listing general contractors and suppliers responsible for overarching elements like painting, countertop fabrication, central vacuum systems, subflooring, interior oak stair parts, and custom cabinetry and carpentry. Key infrastructure components, including HVAC design and equipment from Trane Technologies, electric water heaters from GE Appliances, and humidification products from AprilAire, are also identified. Security and smart home technologies, such as audio, video, and WiFi systems, were provided by Prodigy, while door and cabinet hardware came from Emtek. Flooring details include Duchateau Riverstone hardwood floors and Jeffco Flooring & Supply as the supplier, complemented by interior trees and plants from Gardens of Babylon and planters from Michael Carr Designs. The exterior section meticulously lists window and door specifications from Marvin Elevate® and Marvin Ultimate, with installation by Apex Builders of Nashville. Siding and trim details for the main house, party barn, and garage feature James Hardie products, applied by Ox Exteriors. Stone elements, such as random ashlar split face veneer and honed finishes, were sourced from Alabama Stone Co. A comprehensive list of Sherwin-Williams paint colors is provided for various exterior structures, including the main house, Mary’s Garden Folly, Party Barn, and Waylon’s Dogtrot, all utilizing Emerald Rain Refresh paint. Decking by Zuri® Premium Decking in Chestnut, installed by JEC Construction, Inc., and retractable screens from Phantom Screens are also highlighted. Garage doors by Clopay® Canyon Ridge Chevron, railings by Feeney, Inc., and outdoor lighting by Fourteenth Colony Lighting contribute to the outdoor aesthetic. Metal roofing from MetalMax Roofing & Siding, installed by Bulldog Roofing, and pavers from Belgard Outdoor Living complete the hardscaping. The landscape features plants from the Southern Living® Plant Collection and container plants in Michael Carr Designs planters. Kingdom Pools TN LLC provided the pool, and Embers Grill & Fireplace Store supplied gas fireboxes. Moving indoors, the guide systematically covers each room. The Front Porch includes Summer Classics furniture and Michael Carr Designs planters. The Entry features Regina Andrew lighting and a custom white oak console table by Grothouse. The Wine Pantry showcases Monogram Luxury Appliances wine sommeliers, Arrington Vineyards wine, and items from the Southern Living® Home Collection at Dillard’s and DOMAIN by Laura Hodges Studio. The Living Room/Dining Room is appointed with Marvin windows, Regina Andrew lighting, and a fireplace from Alabama Stone Co. Furnishings include sofas and accent pillows from LEE Industries, a rug from Nashville Rug Gallery, and artwork from various artists and galleries. The Kitchen and Breakfast Nook sections detail Monogram Luxury Appliances, Ferguson Enterprises sinks and faucets, and a mix of items from the Southern Living® Home Collection and DOMAIN by Laura Hodges Studio. Special features include a hand-painted landscape mural by Lenehan Studios in the Breakfast Nook. The Screened Porch extends the living space with Summer Classics outdoor furniture and Southern Living® Plant Collection additions. The Study features Marvin windows, Regina Andrew lighting, custom draperies, and a white oak writing desk by Grothouse. Furniture from LEE Industries and O&G Studio, a rug from Nashville Rug Gallery, and artwork from the Nashville Artist Collective are mentioned. The Primary Bedroom and Bath sections detail similar comprehensive listings for lighting, paint, wallcoverings, custom draperies, furniture, bedding, and bathroom fixtures, including specific tile choices from The Tile Shop and bath products from Ferguson Enterprises. The Primary Closet, Primary Porch, Mudroom, Pantry, Powder Room, Broom Closet/Pantry, Laundry Room, and Yoga/Dog Porch each have detailed lists of their respective design elements, appliances, and accessories. The Laundry Room notably includes a dog wash/feeding station with specific plumbing fixtures. The Basement level includes the Stairwell, Billiards Room, Basement/Powder Room, Music Lounge, and Songwriters Room. The Billiards Room highlights Monogram Luxury Appliances, bespoke bistro tables by Grothouse, and local beverages. The Music Lounge features multi-slide pocket doors, custom draperies, and upholstered furniture from LEE Industries, along with a Steinway Piano Gallery Roland Digital Baby Grand Piano. The Songwriters Room includes various musical instruments and artwork. The Lower Level Porches, Pool/Firepit area, Mary's Garden Folly, Waylon's Dogtrot, and Party Barn also receive detailed breakdowns of their respective outdoor furniture, plantings, and specific fixtures like the Monogram Luxury Appliances Hearth Oven in the Party Barn. Finally, the Second Floor covers the Queen Bedroom and Bath, and the Twin Bedroom and Bath, each with their own curated selections of lighting, furniture, textiles, and bath fixtures, including handmade mattresses from Reid Classics and custom fabrications by Tangled Threads. #IdeaHouse #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SourceGuide #LauraHodges #TennesseeCountry #SouthernLiving #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDetails

Architectural ideas can profoundly transform a home, improving both its aesthetic appeal and the way its inhabitants experience the space. While minor adjustments and additions can be effective, some projects benefit from more dramatic architectural interventions. This article explores nine distinctive architectural concepts that top architects recommend for home construction or renovation in 2023, aiming to add meaningful, respectful, and contemporary value. The first idea focuses on the pitched roof, often seen as a modern element despite its vernacular roots, evident in the works of architects like Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright. This type of extension, with its gabled ends, can dramatically open up a home to more light and air, creating a breezy atmosphere and helping define outdoor spaces. Adam Kane Architects utilized this concept to create a contemporary gabled structure that complements and contrasts with an existing heritage weatherboard home, fitting the coastal environment. Secondly, the article highlights the use of interesting materials for exterior cladding. Incorporating stunning new materials like steel or wood can significantly enhance a home's curb appeal, provide structural support, and increase security. The choice of material can also allow for eye-catching hues or unique weathering effects over time, as demonstrated by DeDraft. Their project involved meticulously detailed faceted steel cladding that eliminated visible fixings and weathered to a burnished appearance, blending seamlessly with the original property's red concrete tiles and deep red brickwork. The third concept introduces the glass house, such as an orangery or greenhouse, for front or rear extensions. These structures, popular since the Renaissance, remain relevant today, offering beautiful, sun-drenched spaces ideal for hosting gatherings. Nadine Engelbrecht's design integrated a conservatory at the heart of a house, bringing the garden indoors and surrounding it with habitual spaces, using a combination of glass and steel set against understated local brickwork. Fourthly, the sculptural skylight is presented as a way to draw the eye upward and create an internal well of light. Skylights can enhance any home by introducing natural light into otherwise dark rooms, framing sky views, and adding architectural value. A unique oval-shaped skylight can accentuate a home's height and depth, with self-cleaning glass offering practical benefits. Fifth, the modern bay window reimagines the traditional glass box extension. A curving extension with a glass window niche can transform a dining room, creating a cozy focal point with expansive views. SCULLION ARCHITECTS designed a dining room influenced by Victorian glasshouses, featuring a curved glass form that serves as a welcoming snug. Sixth, the extended vestibule suggests a small addition that establishes a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Dominic McKenzie Architects achieved this by excavating and terracing a rear garden to connect with a lower ground floor, designing the extension as a freestanding tower with a lighter infill section. The seventh idea is the terrace garden, which elevates gardening by incorporating it into home extensions. A landscaped terrace can define a boundary between old and new sections of a home while maintaining green space, as shown in Nicholas Harvey Architect's work. Eighth, the modern dormer adds functionality to existing homes. A dormer room can serve multiple purposes, such as an attic bedroom, a library, or a reading room. Built-in bookshelves with recessed lighting and comfortable seating can create a cozy and functional space. Finally, the eye-catching façade emphasizes open extensions filled with natural light that complement their surroundings. Materials like Blackbutt timber and Colorbond Diversaclad can create visually appealing exterior additions. This concept offers lessons for incorporating features like bi-fold doors, ensuring they integrate beautifully with the overall architectural design. These diverse architectural ideas collectively offer inspiration for creating homes that are both functional and visually striking, setting a high bar for contemporary design. #ArchitecturalIdeas #HomeRenovation #HomeDesign #ModernArchitecture #PitchedRoof #ExteriorCladding #GlassHouse #SkylightDesign #BayWindow

The 2025 Southern Living Idea House, located just outside Charlottesville, VA, in Keswick Estate, exemplifies a fusion of traditional Southern silhouettes with vibrant colors and unexpected details. Spearheaded by Molly Hardie, the project involved a collaborative effort with Alexander Nicholson as the builder, Rosney Co. Architects, Waterstreet Studio, and interior designer Charlotte Moss. Moss drew inspiration from a family with a love for travel and music, aiming to create a lived-in, welcoming home that celebrates Southern hospitality while embracing its serene five-acre wooded landscape. The journey through the 4,500-square-foot home begins in an octagonal foyer, featuring Thibaut’s Norfolk Stripe wallpaper on both walls and ceiling, emphasizing the room's geometry. The floor is adorned with diagonally set marble checkerboard tiles, creating a striking first impression. Adjacent to the foyer, a hidden powder room boasts Thibaut Chatelain floral wallpaper above the chair rail and Thibaut Bennett Stripe below, introducing a playful mix of patterns and classic elements, complemented by warm brass fixtures. The living room's design takes cues from its large windows, adopting a palette dominated by vibrant greens. Sherwin-Williams Chartreuse on the walls provides a bright contrast to the timeless furniture and window treatments. Schumacher Daydream in Citron drapes the windows, while a custom Century Furniture tête à tête ottoman is upholstered in a bold Schumacher Shivalik Hills Tiger Gold animal print. The space balances traditional elements with whimsical touches, such as framed song lyrics displayed on a yellow wall. The library offers a monochromatic retreat in shades of brown, from rich chocolate to lighter taupe, designed as a casual gathering space for relaxation or reading. The decor is collected and lived-in, avoiding an overly curated feel. A library bar, complete with an antique mirror backsplash, is located just outside. The kitchen, large yet cozy, features creamy Paperwhite walls, Sherwin-Williams Borscht cabinets, and a display of inherited-looking plates. A square kitchen island, designed by Scotsman Co., anchors the room, enhancing its inviting atmosphere. Functioning as an extension of the living areas, the screen porch overlooks the lake and provides three distinct seating options: comfy chairs by an outdoor fireplace, a dining table, and a chaise lounge offering picturesque views. The equestrian-inspired boot room, a Charlottesville-specific take on a mudroom, showcases Sherwin-Williams Studio Blue Green walls, Wedgewood pottery, and Hunt Country decor, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. The primary suite, located on the first floor, serves as a serene retreat. Draped in light blues, greens, and violets, it combines classic brown wood furniture with light, airy, and feminine fabric choices, including Thibaut Holly Trellis wallpaper. The girl's room presents a charming, vintage-inspired look with layered patterns, such as Lisa Fine Textiles' Calico Floral Stripe and Augusta Ivory, subtly incorporating modern elements like Taylor Swift memorabilia. The guest suite, reflecting the family’s passion for travel, features globally inspired treasures, bohemian patterns, and eclectic antiques, with a gallery of international photographs extending the wanderlust theme. The Southern Living Idea House is open for tours through December 21, with tickets available at keswick.com, and a portion of proceeds supporting local Charlottesville organizations: the Yellow Door Foundation, Hospice of the Piedmont, and the Building Goodness Foundation. Keswick Hall offers a "Southern Living Experience" stay package for visitors wishing to extend their visit. #SouthernLivingIdeaHouse #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CharlottesvilleHomes #KeswickEstate #CharlotteMoss #TraditionalInteriors #VibrantColors #SouthernHospitality

The 2025 Southern Living Idea House plan, named Keswick Springs (SL-2115), is a 4,974-square-foot residence inspired by the architectural heritage of Virginia's hunt country. Designed by Keith Scott and Julie Kline Dixon of Rosney Co. Architects, the home integrates traditional Southern elements with modern functionality, aiming to offer a lifestyle that is active and connected to its surroundings rather than solely focused on indoor entertainment. The design draws inspiration from the 1989-built Keswick Hunt Club, featuring characteristic bay windows, large hipped roofs, and expansive porches. The main floor of Keswick Springs is designed for thoughtful connections between rooms without being entirely open. A classic entry hall provides a direct view to the back porch, immediately establishing a link to the outdoors. A boot room, strategically placed off the side entry, helps maintain cleanliness by containing daily clutter. The dining room, situated at the front of the home, anchors a hospitality-oriented layout, flowing into a spacious kitchen and an adjacent living room. The living room features numerous windows and a central fireplace, enhancing its inviting atmosphere. Between the kitchen and dining room, a scullery and pantry offer extensive storage and preparation areas. A library on the other side of the living room includes a wet bar, adding to the home's entertainment capabilities. Privacy is a key consideration in the primary suite, which occupies the right side of the main level. This suite is well-appointed with two walk-in closets, a coffee bar, and a spa-like bathroom, intentionally separated from the main activity areas to provide a serene retreat. On the opposite end of the main floor, a studio space is connected to the main house via a breezeway. This versatile area, equipped with a full bath, closet, and coffee bar, can serve multiple functions, such as a guest suite, home office, gym, or art studio. The outdoor living spaces are extensive, including a front porch designed for relaxation with rocking chairs, a large screened porch suitable for year-round entertaining due to its fireplace, and a generous back terrace ideal for various activities from lounging to al fresco dining. The second floor is accessed via a staircase that leads to a cozy landing, which functions as an upstairs den and includes a built-in daybed nook for reading or quiet contemplation. Three additional bedrooms are integrated into this level. The architects intentionally tucked these second-story bedrooms under the attic eaves to create a lower volume, making the home appear to blend more seamlessly with the landscape. The overall design emphasizes well-scaled rooms that foster connection, both with the natural environment and among the inhabitants, ensuring that despite its generous 4,974 square feet of heated and cooled space, no area feels wasted. The home also includes 1,814 square feet of outdoor living space and a 792-square-foot garage, and features five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and two half bathrooms. #HomeDesign #IdeaHouse #SouthernArchitecture #Virginia #RosneyCoArchitects #KeswickSprings #ModernLiving #HomeBuilding #ArchitecturalHistory

The 2022 Whole House Design category winner is a grand, Cape Cod-style home that harmonizes historical charm with vibrant coastal colors. This project, located in the Ozarks countryside, was conceptualized, designed, and built from the ground up by Nathan Taylor of Obelisk Home. The inception of the project originated from a chance encounter between Taylor and the homeowners at a cocktail party, leading to a long-term collaboration that started with initial sketches and culminated in a finished residence two years later. Taylor's design vision aimed to infuse the property with the distinctive aesthetic of a traditional Nantucket home, a style not commonly seen in the Ozark region. Key design elements include arched doorways, shadow box paneling throughout the main floor, and a classic East Coast color palette. These features contribute to a rich, historical feel within the home. Jeremy Cook of Cook Haus Design was responsible for translating Taylor's initial concepts into comprehensive architectural plans. The interior layout emphasizes an open-concept flow, integrating the kitchen, dining room, great room, and office space seamlessly. The kitchen and dining area are subtly defined by a lighted shadow box ceiling, an architectural detail that distinguishes it from the expansive living room. The living space is anchored by four oversized leather ottomans, each topped with custom walnut trays. This walnut material is consistently used in a large entertainment cabinet and the base of the kitchen island, creating a cohesive design theme. A significant design choice was the integration of the dining space with the kitchen, foregoing a separate formal dining room. This was achieved through a banquet off the island, upholstered in a rich powder blue leather, paired with a dressy dining table and chairs. A large, floor-to-ceiling china cabinet with built-in lighting and arched crown molding adds a formal touch to this combined space. The home office, positioned beneath a grand floating staircase, offers a cozy retreat with views of the front window, and also allows for easy interaction with the living room. The color scheme of cornflower and dusty blue extends to the upstairs primary bedroom, where it is complemented by bold patterns and lively accents of pink, orange, and fuchsia. The primary bathroom adopts a tone-on-tone approach, utilizing high-end marble in various textures and patterns to create a spa-like atmosphere. A fuchsia rug in the bathroom links back to the vibrant colors of the bedroom, while a molded glass chandelier and sconces add an elegant, historical touch. The exterior of the home holds personal significance for one of the homeowners, as the site was his childhood playground. The back hallway mudroom features an alder bench, stained and painted to match the walnut elements, and cabinetry in a unique "blavy" (black navy) color, adding strength and character to the space. The successful execution of this project, despite its challenges, resulted in the realization of the homeowners' coastal dream home, a sentiment expressed by Taylor regarding their satisfaction. #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #CapeCodStyle #HomeDecor #ObeliskHome #ArchitecturalDesign #CoastalCharm #LuxuryHomes

Chief Architect Home Designer Suite 2025 is a powerful architectural software designed for both professional builders and casual users looking to visualize home improvements or new constructions. It strikes a balance between highly detailed customization options and automation features, enabling users to create intricate environments quickly and easily. The software is part of Chief Architect's Home Designer range, which includes Suite, Architectural, and Pro versions, with Suite being the most affordable at $129, compared to Architectural at $249 and Pro at $595 (or $59/month rental). Despite its lower price point, the Suite version offers extensive tools, including smart cabinets that automatically orient themselves, and automated building of walls, roofs, stairs, floors, and even external landscaping with custom elevation and vegetation. Various 3D views and CAD tools are also included in the basic package. More advanced customization options, such as specific wall types, custom backsplashes, countertops, and curved decks, are available in the Architectural version, while Pro caters to those needing printable construction documents, material lists, and advanced customization. The software's interface, though potentially intimidating for new users due to the sheer number of tools, is well-organized with a large design area, sidebars for tools, and a library. Chief Architect provides tutorial videos to help users quickly adapt. The core philosophy of Home Designer is to simplify complex building processes, allowing users to focus on design. Walls can be created by dragging, fine-tuned by adjusting dimensions, or seamlessly joined when placed near existing ones. A unique feature is the automatic generation of material lists (bricks, insulation, timber, etc.) as the design progresses. Upon completing walls, the software automatically adds a basic roof, framing, and foundations. Users retain full control, able to select, resize, and modify any item through double-clicking to access changeable parameters. Working primarily in a top-down, blueprint-like view, users can also switch to 3D, 'Doll House' (roof removed for an aerial view of floors), and 'Glass House' (all elements transparent) views, maintaining the ability to edit designs. The software allows for labeling parts of the creation for better organization. A vast library of furniture and objects is available, with many items downloadable for free after account registration. Every item is fully customizable, allowing users to change materials using the 'Material Painter' tool, even for unconventional applications like grass and bluebells on a wall. Beyond interior design, the software facilitates garden creation, including terrain elevation, paths, and plants, though some plants may incur additional costs. Version 2025 introduces several refinements rather than radical changes. System-wide improvements include an 'Undo Action History' panel, similar to Photoshop, allowing for easy navigation through multiple undo steps. Users can also select plan file thumbnails and adjust file archiving frequency. Design-specific enhancements include more automation for deck building, the addition of corner shelves, and electrical connections for fixtures. While these new features are not revolutionary, they contribute to the overall functionality and usability of an already impressive application. The Chief Architect Home Designer Suite 2025 is recommended for those requiring meticulous design and extensive decoration options for virtual homes, but it might be overkill for casual users seeking a simpler, Sims-like experience without professional tools. #ArchitecturalSoftware #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #3DModeling #CADSoftware #ConstructionPlanning #DesignTools #ChiefArchitect

This article explores ten unique residential architectural designs that deviate from conventional rectangular floor plans, showcasing a range of innovative and unconventional shapes. These homes, located in various parts of the world, demonstrate how architects utilize unusual geometries to respond to site conditions, optimize views, or create distinct living experiences. Each featured house presents a creative solution to architectural design, often resulting in striking visual forms and functional layouts. The first example is Casa de la Roca in Mexico, a Y-shaped house designed by Cadaval & Solà-Morales. Its three equal-sized volumes, resembling a throwing star, point towards different views from a central living area, with bedrooms strategically placed to maximize scenic exposure. In London, 6 Wood Lane by Birds Portchmouth Russum Architects features a distinctive sausage-shaped upper floor, constructed using boatbuilding techniques. This unconventional form was prefabricated and craned into place, creating a unique urban dwelling Michael Russum described as a "mystery vessel." Moon Hoon's Simple House on Jeju Island, South Korea, is characterized by stacked, cantilevered concrete boxes that form a cross-like plan. This design is engineered with diagonal reinforced-concrete beams to withstand strong winds while orienting each box towards specific views. Casa Bruma in rural Mexico, designed by Fernanda Canales and Claudia Rodríguez, consists of nine dark-colored blocks arranged like a bracelet around a central courtyard. This layout preserves existing trees on the site, with each block housing a different function of the home. The Treewow Retreat in Zhongcun, China, by Monoarchi, is a circular holiday home supported on stilts, resembling an eyeball in plan. It features a circular terrace and a freeform roof, designed to integrate with its natural surroundings by a stream. In Colorado, Skylab Architecture's Owl Creek Residence has a triangular, arrowhead-shaped floor plan. This design capitalizes on views of the Rocky Mountains, with V-shaped bedrooms on the lower floor and an open-plan living area on the upper level. Planar House in Brazil by Studio MK27 is a monumental single-story residence with rooms arranged linearly under a grass-covered concrete roof. A curved brick screen gives the house the appearance of an elongated grand piano, highlighting the studio's emphasis on horizontality. Atelier Tsuyoshi Tane Architects' Todoroki House in Tokyo features an artichoke-shaped ground floor with full-height glazing facing a tropical garden, while the first floor comprises eight intersecting rectangular volumes offering treetop views. My Home in Fukushima, designed by Cohta Asano, is a three-story house composed of nine intersecting cuboids, evoking a pile of toast. This configuration creates varied and harmonious internal spaces. Solo House II in Matarraña, Spain, by Office KGDVS, is a wedding ring-shaped residence with a 45-meter diameter circular roof and glass walls, providing panoramic views of the forest from its plateau location. Lastly, Gluck+'s Artist Retreat in Upstate New York consists of eight Tetris-like cuboids arranged on a grid, with six connected as living spaces and two serving as a photography studio, their simple forms creating strong silhouettes in the agricultural landscape. The Vault House in South Korea by OBBA features undefined, curvy walls extending from the house to enclose private garden spaces, protecting them from nearby infrastructure. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #UnusualFloorPlans #ArchitecturalInnovation #ModernHomes #GlobalArchitecture #UniqueStructures #DesignInspiration

The year 2022 is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective to home aesthetics, with several interior design trends emerging or continuing their upward trajectory. Many of these trends reflect a growing desire for individuality and a departure from mass-produced items, as observed by industry experts like interior designer Andee Hess of Osmose Design and Jean Lin of Colony. They note a movement away from the homogenization of homes, with people increasingly seeking out unique and expressive elements for their living spaces. Biophilic design principles are expected to remain a dominant force, emphasizing the integration of nature into indoor environments. This trend, gaining momentum even before the recent shift to remote work, is supported by studies highlighting the benefits of plants on concentration, stress reduction, and indoor air quality. Pinterest data further corroborates this, showing a 150 percent increase in searches for "biophilic architecture," alongside significant jumps for terms like "biophilic design bedroom" and "floral ceiling." Beyond just plants, green-painted interiors and flora- and fauna-patterned wallpapers are also predicted to be popular, encouraging a palette of emerald and moss tones. Sustainable and reclaimed materials will also see a surge in popularity. A survey by 1stDibs indicated that approximately 97 percent of interior designers expect sustainable materials to be paramount in 2022. Jean Lin suggests that the pandemic-induced rush for immediate utility will be replaced by a demand for timelessly chic and functional furnishings with longer lifespans. Designers Isabelle Dubern-Mallevays and Anna Zaoui of The Invisible Collection foresee reclaimed wood and stone becoming prominent in both architecture and interior design. This extends to construction methods, with firms like GRT Architects focusing on improving existing historic structures rather than new builds, reflecting a growing interest in adaptive reuse projects such as barn and warehouse conversions. Tactile and earthy textures are set to be a key element, with materials like wood, plaster, bronze, and leather gaining traction. Frederick Tang, principal of Frederick Tang Architecture, anticipates a rise in finishes such as plaster, clay, and lime washes, with greater experimentation in textured applications like raked plaster and grainy stuccos. These durable and often water-resistant materials are expected to move from indoor applications to outdoor spaces and custom furniture. Furthermore, there is a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship, leading to a "Craft Revival." Consumers are increasingly looking for vintage, antique, and handcrafted items. Andee Hess and Makrai Crecelius of Osmose Design link this to people exploring hands-on activities during recent slowdowns, fostering a greater appreciation for the complexity of crafted pieces. Architects Nicko Elliott and Ksenia Kagner of Civilian Projects note a shift away from minimalist Scandinavian and Memphis-influenced designs towards intricately crafted and historic decorative forms. They predict a focus on spaces like vestibules, hallways, and libraries for displaying object collections, with furnishings such as throne-like chairs, consoles, sideboards, and generously scaled table lamps, candlesticks, quilts, rustic linens, and heavily textured ceramics. Frederick Tang also expects a move away from minimalist upholstery textures to more experimental edge details like ruffles, pleats, tassels, and ball fringes, which, when paired with bolder colors, offer a playful twist. Finally, the concept of "Wavy Geometry" will continue to evolve, with rounded details expanding beyond furniture to millwork and stone backsplash detailing. Frederick Tang highlights the versatility of this motif across various settings. Curvilinear elements will become more prevalent throughout the home, from softened sofa corners to arched windows and circular structural details like waterfall corners on consoles and countertops. Less permanent options include drum tables and rounded area rugs. Pinterest data supports the growing interest in circular designs, showing significant increases in searches for "curved bar design" and "round pool decking ideas" across different generations. The article concludes by discussing the move towards multifunctional spaces and away from open-plan layouts, driven by the rise of hybrid work and multi-generational living, emphasizing the need for adaptable and distinct living and working areas. #HomeDesignTrends #InteriorDesign #BiophilicDesign #SustainableMaterials #CraftRevival #EarthyTextures #WavyGeometry #MultifunctionalSpaces #HomeRenovation

The article discusses the evolution of home design trends, moving from the modern farmhouse style popular in 2019 to a new aesthetic called "Newstalgia." The shift is attributed to changes in lifestyle brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, where homes became multipurpose hubs for work, school, and leisure. This new reality has led to a desire for more functional, personal, and positive living spaces, moving away from generic and impersonal designs. Newstalgia is introduced as the anticipated top home trend for 2022. It is defined as a design approach that refreshes retro furnishings and decor with contemporary accents and new technologies. This concept aims to evoke the warmth and familiarity of nostalgia while incorporating the comforts and conveniences of modern-day technology. The term, originally attributed to Seattle DJ Sean De Tore, applies not only to home decor but also to fashion and music. In the design context, Newstalgia modernizes retro revival with luxurious finishes and high-end tech, making it feel current yet evocative. The article provides visual examples of Newstalgia, such as a mint green Smeg kettle on marble countertops, a thrifted gallery wall next to a high-end cooking range, and cane Cesca chairs paired with a blonde wooden table. This aesthetic is driven by the desire for every item in a home to possess character and reflect the homeowner's personality and interests. Ben White, a design and trade expert, emphasizes the importance of investing in upcycled, antique, or used furniture that tells a story, moving away from "meaningless furniture and accessories." He also notes that minimalism will remain key, with decluttering becoming even more crucial due to increased work-from-home arrangements. Pop culture is expected to significantly influence the Newstalgia trend, with shows featuring '70s and '80s interior design inspiring a comeback of nostalgic elements. This will manifest in statement pieces like plush, rounded velvet armchairs that offer comfort and a sense of luxury. The article then outlines four practical ways to incorporate the Newstalgia look into one's home. The first is to "Go Green In The Kitchen," as green is a trending color for 2022. This involves using colorful tiles and green marble, paired with sleek, smart appliances that streamline daily tasks. The second tip is to "Use Retro Shapes With New Finishes." This involves updating old furniture shapes and silhouettes with modern colors, fabrics, and finishes, ensuring that repurposed vintage items look current rather than dated. The third recommendation is to "Pair Antique Staples With New Accessories." This approach suggests incorporating refined antiques into modern designs, tempering contemporary styles like mid-century modern. This method also highlights the environmental benefit of using repurposed antiques. Finally, the article advises to "Incorporate Items With ‘soul’," encouraging the integration of inherited or collected antique items that carry personal history and character, such as a grand piano, colored wine glasses, or an oak-wood armoire. This blending of old and new, perhaps with current trends like organic modern or Japandi, aims to create a unique and meaningful living space. #HomeDesignTrends #Newstalgia #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RetroModern #SustainableDesign #KitchenDesign #AntiqueRevival

The "Tierra Tulum Project," a newly finished four-bedroom residence in Holmes Beach, combines coastal comfort with an earthy, boho-modern aesthetic. The home was designed by Emily Moss Designs for a couple with a growing real estate portfolio who enjoy travel. It was inspired by their recent trip to Tulum and was built with the flexibility to serve as a primary residence, a vacation getaway, or a rental property. The design incorporates limewashed walls, arched ceilings, and various layered textures to evoke a boutique hotel atmosphere. Engineered hardwood floors provide both durability and warmth throughout the interior. Natural materials are prominently featured in the home's design to ground its airy color scheme. Walnut beams add a touch of organic warmth, and Ulite rock formations surround the resort-style pool, seamlessly integrating the outdoor and indoor aesthetics. The primary suite is a focal point, with double sliders that open to expansive views of the pool and the adjacent beach. An air vent, which initially posed a design challenge, was ingeniously transformed into a built-in feature, mirroring the custom millwork found in the living room and enhancing design coherence. The primary bathroom further showcases sophisticated design with a floating vanity and a freestanding tub encased in stone, reflecting a meticulous attention to detail and material selection. Among the home's various distinctive spaces, the office stands out due to its rich color palette and architectural ceiling. This area is distinguished by a pre-lit niche wall that features arched alcoves of differing shapes and sizes, adding visual depth and character. The use of blue limewash walls and artwork from Uttermost contributes to the office's striking and cohesive tonal drenching. This space exemplifies the thoughtful layering of design elements that makes each part of the home unique and memorable. The kitchen is designed with visual continuity, featuring a subtly paint-dipped island that echoes the hue used in the adjacent laundry room. A handcrafted blue Zellige tile backsplash provides additional depth and ties into the island’s color, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment. The living room on the first floor incorporates a soft pale blue limewash accent wall, contributing a coastal touch, while an arrangement of rattan pendant lights overhead introduces a natural, earthy feel and serves as a striking focal point. The dining room, which overlooks the living room, maintains consistency with neutral tones in its flooring, table, and chairs. The pool area, designed by Tom Sanger Pools, is characterized by Miami Pebble and Ulite rock formations, with nearby rocks subtly repeating the stone details from the primary bath, reinforcing a cohesive design narrative throughout the property. #EmilyMossDesigns #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BohoModern #CoastalLiving #TulumInspired #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign

The WOW!house 2025, an annual showcase at the Chelsea Harbour Design Centre, features 22 rooms designed by prominent interior designers, offering a wealth of creative and forward-thinking ideas for home decoration. This year's event is notable for its immersive experience, including a spectacular Georgian townhouse façade within the entrance hall. The showcased designs span classical to modern styles, all crafted by A-list designers who, free from client constraints, presented unbridled artistic visions. The article highlights six particularly ingenious design ideas observed at the event. One standout is Alex Dauley's 'Room for Two,' a media room sponsored by Nucleus, which brilliantly integrates technology into its design. A hidden bar is revealed by a lifting artwork, and a speaker is ingeniously concealed behind another piece of art, with the sound passing through a specially translated textile. The room also features dramatic mood lighting and a luxurious built-in sofa in rich terracotta velvet, creating an ideal setting for movie nights. Another innovative concept comes from Staffan Tollgård's home office, characterized by its bold use of pattern. The walls are covered with Phillip Jeffries' Modern Muse wallpaper, a large-scale geometric pattern handcrafted from wood veneers, offering a tactile experience. Tollgård advocates for using strong graphic patterns on all four walls, challenging the conventional wisdom of limiting them to feature walls. The design effectively utilizes the room's narrow dimensions, enveloping the viewer in the pattern, while furniture like the Bean desk by Ceccotti Collezioni adds comfort with its gentle curves. Laura Hammett's Art Deco bathroom design offers a fresh appreciation for the style, which is celebrating its centenary. Hammett applied geometric Art Deco motifs to both the architecture of the bathroom and its specific design elements, such as the mirror and vanity. A notable detail is the 'champagne ledge' on the vanity, a small protruding surface that enhances functionality by providing usable countertop space and a convenient spot for a drink, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to user interaction within the space. Brigitta Spinocchia Freund's 'curator's room' is distinguished by its eclecticism and artistic flair. This space, sponsored by Stark carpet, blends a diverse range of materials, patterns, and sculptural forms, functioning as both a parlor and an art gallery. Spinocchia Freund emphasized a cross-pollination of mediums, incorporating fashion, art, and textiles, and collaborating with artists like Roksanda on a Corbusier-inspired ceiling. This approach highlights a shift towards interiors as platforms for showcasing new and iconic talent across various creative fields. The spectacular bathroom designed by 1508 London, sponsored by House of Rohl, excels in its use of lighting to create different moods. Associate Paris Albert demonstrated how various lighting settings, including 'Reflection,' 'Ritual,' and 'Reverie,' can transform the space for unwinding, bathing, or evoking cultural narratives. The design, with its shower enclosure reveals, ensures that the light looks beautiful regardless of the chosen setting. Finally, Peter Mikic's dining room, featuring sunny yellow hues like Benjamin Moore's Broadway Lights, exudes brightness and joy. Mikic, collaborating with Benjamin Moore, designed the space with subtle nods to his Australian heritage, including hand-painted wall panels inspired by Indigenous art and a mural depicting his emigration. The room combines glamour with comfort, featuring a mix of new and antique pieces and inviting textures, such as a custom dining table with colorful stones set in resin. The designer's goal was to create a dinner party atmosphere where no one would want to leave, underscoring a growing trend towards the revival of formal dining rooms. The WOW!house exhibition runs from June 3rd to July 3rd, offering visitors the opportunity to experience these innovative designs firsthand. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #WOWhouse2025 #LuxuryInteriors #TechIntegration #PatternUse #ArtDeco #LightingDesign

This article provides a detailed review of the main bedroom room reveals from Week 5 of The Block 2024, highlighting the designs, styling choices, and judges' feedback for each of the five competing couples. The competition saw new couple Maddy and Charlotte settling in, with all teams facing budget constraints while aiming to impress with their 'main bedrooms'. Courtney and Grant secured first place with their 'Moditerranean' main bedroom. The judges, particularly Marty, praised it as the "most marketable room" of The Block 2024, citing its arched ceiling, hidden HomePro sheers, and bullnose plaster accents. The styling, featuring artwork, a Globe West Occasional chair, Kolbi Luna Moon side table, and Create Estate Fern bed, was highly regarded by Shaynna. The Kinsman wardrobe, with its shelving, stone, and leather-textured cabinetry, also received commendation for its luxury and market appeal. Kristian and Mimi tied for first place with a 'Coastal Holiday' themed room. Their design incorporated a raked ceiling with HomePro sheers, a Wave bedhead, Foundation bedbase, Dot ottoman from Steph and Gian’s new Japandi Estate collection, and Artist Lane artworks, including the Cape Woolamai Phillip Island piece. While the overall room was well-received, some imperfections were noted, such as unfinished paintwork, mismatched door handles, and a potentially jarring LED lighting choice near the Porta Timber feature. Despite these minor flaws, the judges considered it a strong contender. The Kinsman wardrobe, featuring Budino Walnut joinery, Hafele upgrades, drop-down hangers, leather boxes, and trouser and shoe racks, was deemed "luxury upon luxury" by Darren. Kylie and Brad achieved third place with a "classy and luxe" main bedroom that maintained Kylie’s signature dark and moody aesthetic. Marty admired its personality, and Shaynna lauded the Shou Sugi Ban feature wall with uplighting, burgundy accents, metallic Grafico ceiling, and Globe West furniture pieces including the Arthur console, Wyatt Milan bedside, and Bonnie Occasional chair. The room's functionality, including a Mitsubishi split-system, and adherence to feng shui principles were also praised. The wardrobe continued the luxurious theme with another Grafico ceiling and wall, a Wild Yarn Marley rug, and complementary panelling. The only critique was from Shaynna regarding the styling of ripped jean shorts, suggesting a more upscale choice would have been appropriate. Darren described the room as "like walking into a jewellery box." Maddy and Charlotte, the new couple, secured fourth place with an elevated neutral palette and floor-to-ceiling crushed linen sheers, moving away from the previous occupant's "Grandma Chic" style. Judges appreciated the Velux skylight and Hardie Groove feature wall, along with subtle decorative elements like the Bordeaux Candle and T. House Zoi bowl. While a good start, Shaynna suggested larger furniture, such as the Kave Home Luisa armchair and bedsides, would have enhanced the space. The Kinsman wardrobe was a hit, with Darren commending its on-trend colours and well-executed fittings. The judges acknowledged the challenges faced by the couple, given that three teams had worked on the room, and believed they were progressing in the right direction. Ricky and Haydn finished in fifth place. Their room initially impressed with Grafico wallpaper featuring custom palm trees, a custom ceiling and panelling, Bohteak Bora Bora lamps, and a single teak Branch Mirror. However, the unfinished state of the room became a significant point of concern. Marty questioned if the effort expended on the ceiling led to a lack of time for completion. Although the Kinsman walk-in wardrobe was complete and praised for its scalloped door profile and Brown Bronze handles, judges raised questions about carpeting the wardrobe area when the bedroom had floorboards and the placement of the door. Darren summarized their effort as an "unfinished symphony." #TheBlock2024 #RoomReveal #MainBedroom #HomeDesign #InteriorStyling #CoastalHolidayDesign #ModiterraneanStyle #LuxuryInteriors #RenovationCompetition

As 2023 begins, it's an opportune time for homeowners to refresh their living spaces by retiring outdated home decor trends from 2022. This involves a thoughtful evaluation of current aesthetics and an embrace of emerging styles. Several key trends are on their way out, making room for new approaches to interior design. Firstly, the pervasive 1970s aesthetic, characterized by macramé and earth-toned palettes, is receding. In its place, the mid-century charm of the 1950s, with its playful prints and vibrant pastels, is making a resurgence. Additionally, the bold geometric patterns and reflective surfaces reminiscent of the 1980s are also gaining traction, offering a nostalgic yet fresh perspective on home decor. The era of mass-produced decorative items is also fading. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique, handcrafted pieces that reflect personal style and artistry. This shift emphasizes individuality and supports local artisans, moving away from generic, factory-made knickknacks. Artisanal vases, custom furniture, and bespoke decorative elements are now preferred over identical, widely available items. The ubiquitous buffalo check pattern, a staple in country-style decor, is also being phased out. While not a complete abandonment of plaid, the trend is moving towards more varied textures and patterns. Chunky woven fabrics, intricate embroidered appliqués, and innovative uses of earth tones are becoming popular alternatives, providing a cozy yet refined aesthetic without relying on overused motifs. Barbie pink, a color that saw a surge in popularity during the pandemic, is giving way to a more subdued and sophisticated color palette. While warm shades like Viva Magenta (Pantone's 2023 Color of the Year) remain relevant, the bright, bubblegum pink is being replaced by cooler, calmer hues such as sage green, emerald, lavender, and cobalt blue. These colors are chosen for their ability to create serene and lush environments, offering a sense of tranquility and elegance. A surprising shift is occurring in dining ware, with traditional dinner plates being supplanted by "plate bowls" or shallow dinner bowls. These items, favored for their practicality and versatility, cater to a more informal and functional dining experience. This trend reflects a broader move away from rigid dining traditions towards an eclectic approach that prioritizes convenience and contemporary living. Matte-black hardware, a dominant trend in recent years, is also being superseded by a return to shiny metallic finishes. Brass, silver, and copper hardware are making a comeback, often mixed and matched to create dynamic and layered aesthetics. This allows for greater flexibility and personal expression in hardware choices, moving beyond the monochromatic dominance of matte black. Finally, caged light fixtures, particularly those featuring Edison bulbs, are losing their appeal. This industrial-inspired look, once popular alongside the modern farmhouse aesthetic, is being replaced by lighting options with softer lines and more integrated designs. Fixtures with curved forms, made from wood or metal, and equipped with LED light sources, are now preferred for their modern elegance and energy efficiency. This encourages homeowners to select lighting that enhances the overall ambiance with a refined touch. #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #2023Trends #VintageRevival #HandcraftedDecor #ColorPalettes #DiningWare #HardwareFinishes #LightingDesign

This article highlights a new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) house plan, showcasing its innovative design and upscale features within a compact footprint. The featured ADU demonstrates that tiny homes can offer significant comfort and an airy living environment, challenging common perceptions of small-scale living. The exterior design incorporates a modern aesthetic, characterized by a shed roof that contributes to its contemporary curb appeal. This is further enhanced by the use of contrasting siding and panels, adding visual interest and a sophisticated touch to the facade. Upon entering the ADU, residents are greeted by vaulted ceilings in all the main rooms. This architectural choice is crucial in creating an expansive and open feel, effectively drawing the eye upward and making the interior spaces appear larger and more inviting than their actual dimensions might suggest. The floor plan is designed for simplicity and functionality, maintaining a clean four-corner layout. Despite its modest size, the ADU includes a private bedroom, which is a significant advantage over designs that might rely on loft spaces or require ladder access, thereby enhancing comfort and accessibility for occupants. A full bathroom is conveniently located adjacent to the bedroom, ensuring ease of use. One of the practical design elements highlighted is the inclusion of a barn door, which offers the flexibility to separate the living room from the foyer. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who work from home, providing a degree of privacy and minimizing distractions during work hours. The kitchen area is thoughtfully designed with a window positioned above the sink, allowing natural light to stream in and offering relaxing views for those engaged in food preparation or dishwashing. This detail not only brightens the space but also connects the interior with the outdoor environment. The article emphasizes that this ADU plan successfully integrates upscale amenities and smart design solutions into a small home. It demonstrates how careful planning and attention to detail can transform a compact living space into a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing residence. The overall design prioritizes both style and practicality, making it an appealing option for those seeking efficient and modern living solutions. The plan serves as an example of how ADUs can be developed to meet contemporary living standards while providing an array of unexpected conveniences. #ADU #AccessoryDwellingUnits #TinyHomes #HousePlans #ModernDesign #VaultedCeilings #CompactLiving #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures

The Blockheads, Ankur and Sharon, faced an immediate challenge on 'The Block' with the House Decider challenge, tasking them to design and present a bedroom. Despite initial confidence, a misinterpretation of advice from Scott Cam during the challenge created complications, intensifying the pressure to complete the room before judging. The final reveal showcased a well-finished room, incorporating a distinctive rustic theme with olive green walls and timber finishes, including prominent ceiling beams and a wooden feature wall behind the bed. The judging panel, comprising Neale Whitaker, Shaynna Blaze, and Darren Palmer, offered a mixed reception to the couple's design. Darren Palmer noted the room's country feel but questioned its geographical origin, suggesting it leaned more French than Australian. He expressed concern that the intensely rustic approach might polarize potential buyers, limiting its market appeal. The design incorporated large timber beams on the roof and the overall aesthetic was described as very rustic. Conversely, Shaynna Blaze praised Ankur and Sharon's dedication and skill, particularly commending the rustic wooden feature wall and the ceiling beams. She acknowledged that the couple successfully achieved their vision of a rustic room, recognizing the significant effort and a keen eye for design. She stated that the execution, despite its rustic intensity, worked well, affirming that they accomplished what they set out to do. Neale Whitaker found the bedroom surprising and "very interesting," remarking on its unexpected nature but conceding its excellent execution. However, he cautioned against extending this specific rustic concept throughout the entire house, implying a need for design diversification in subsequent rooms. The room also featured red and patterned pillowcases, which enhanced the rustic theme, along with minimalist timber furniture, such as a cabinet and a bedroom chair, to maintain a clean aesthetic. The rustic feature wall blended hints of green, brown, and gold in its timber, complemented by a gold side table. While Ankur and Sharon received commendation for their efforts and the distinct character of their bedroom, the judges' feedback indicated a desire for them to broaden their design approach beyond the singular rustic theme. This suggestion highlighted the importance of creating a home with broader appeal to potential buyers, suggesting that while their initial room was well-executed, a more versatile design strategy would be beneficial for future challenges. The episode concluded with a clear message for the team to consider evolving their style to cater to a wider audience. #TheBlock2022 #RoomReveal #BedroomDesign #RusticDecor #HouseDeciderChallenge #AnkurAndSharon #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation