Netflix Deep Dive | The Historic Charleston Remodel

An apartment located in downtown Charleston’s South of Broad Historic District, overlooking the Ashley River, has been meticulously revamped by Architrave Interior Design. The two-bedroom unit, characterized by its grand ceilings and large steel windows, is situated within a neoclassical building designed in 1922 by David Hyer. This building, formerly the Andrew B. Murray Vocational School, received the Carolopolis Award from the Preservation Society of Charleston and was transformed into 27 upscale apartments in 2002. The design project aimed to retain the apartment's historic charm while infusing a new, vibrant personality through a careful blend of traditional and contemporary elements. The apartment, which originally started as a completely empty and white space, now showcases a lifelong collection of colorful modern art and European antiques belonging to the homeowners. Architrave Interior Design opted for a citrus color palette, primarily greens and yellows, to introduce a refreshing touch. This choice creates a compelling juxtaposition between the client’s antique furnishings and modern art against the backdrop of the apartment’s original architecture and industrial-style windows. The design process was heavily influenced by the building's inherent architectural character and the homeowners' personal collections, guiding the selection of materials and finishes. To achieve a harmonious balance between the historical context and modern updates, the designers incorporated antique lighting and traditional materials such as marble, Venetian plaster, and various wallcoverings. Decorative painting techniques were also employed to elevate the interior surfaces. The rooms maintained their original proportions, while different flooring treatments and materials were introduced to enhance the overall aesthetic. For instance, the stately entryway and gallery hall were designed to evoke the ambiance of a traditional Parisian pied-à-terre, with a yellow paper-backed silk wallcovering by Gracie Studio providing a cheerful and bright background for the extensive art collection. The design thoughtfully integrates specific details throughout the apartment. The galley kitchen, for example, features glossy cabinets and brass hardware to maximize space efficiently. The primary bathroom is adorned with garden visuals, accented by a painted and glazed vanity. The breakfast room boasts an 18th-century-inspired chinoiserie landscape mural by Gracie Studio, customized to reflect the South Carolina Lowcountry with citrus trees and pink azalea bushes. The sun room is distinguished by a chartreuse yellow grasscloth, chosen for its organic texture and vibrant color, while the powder room features a Bird and Thistle-patterned wallpaper by Brunschwig & Fils, an 18th-century English textile reproduction. For the library, a chevron-pattern woven paper, reminiscent of tweed menswear fabric, was selected to provide a rich background. The master bedroom exudes classic glamour with a classic English damask wallpaper by Zoffany, complementing a large painted bed, a vintage rug, and a 1930s chandelier with emerald green crystals. Moe Draz, the founder of Architrave Interior Design, emphasizes a design philosophy centered on intuition, simplicity, and authenticity, ensuring that the finished spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable and deeply reflective of the clients' personalities and treasured possessions. The project successfully transforms a historic shell into a vibrant, personalized home that respects its heritage while embracing contemporary living. #ArchitraveInteriorDesign #CharlestonApartment #SouthCarolinaDesign #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #NeoclassicalArchitecture #Wallcoverings #MoeDraz #LuxuryInteriors

Designer Rebecca Philipson undertook a significant remodel of a 1990s-built, 5,300-square-foot home in Aurora, Ohio, focusing on transforming the kitchen, great room, and lounge into more open and inviting spaces. The homeowners sought to infuse warmth and an open concept into their residence, a vision Philipson brought to life through a blend of traditional and rustic elements, with distinct French Country influences. Central to the design is the incorporation of Amish hand-hewn ceiling beams and elaborate stonework, which serve as prominent features, particularly in the lounge. This area, designed for relaxation and entertaining, includes a wet bar, a built-in refrigerator, and custom alder cabinetry. The adjacent sunroom houses a pool table, creating a seamless flow for social gatherings and post-dinner interactions. The overall layout was reimagined to foster a sense of togetherness, allowing family and guests to interact comfortably across the connected rooms. Philipson achieved this open concept by strategically removing the wall between the great room and kitchen, then linking the kitchen to the lounge. Archways were introduced to formalize these open transitions. The kitchen underwent the most substantial transformation. Previously walled off, it featured an angled peninsula, an irregularly shaped island, and low-hanging soffits. Philipson replaced these with faux beams to maintain the rustic aesthetic and installed a central island with seating for three. The homeowners' desire for warmth and intricate details was met through design elements such as decorative island legs. Attention to detail extends throughout the kitchen, with intricate touches found in the baseboards, legs, valances, and along the bottom of the island cabinetry. The refrigerator was artfully concealed with cabinet panels and mirrored glass, designed to resemble an armoire rather than an appliance, fulfilling the client's wish for cabinetry that emulated furniture. A built-in coffee maker contributed to a decluttered countertop space. The great room further showcases the sophisticated stonework, with cream-colored stone extending from floor to ceiling around the fireplace. This central feature is flanked by built-in cabinets that mirror the design of the kitchen's concealed refrigerator. Oversized iron hardware on the cabinetry adds a dramatic flair, complementing the multi-tiered iron chandelier, which serves as a focal point. Recessed lighting supplements the chandelier, with all lighting choices made to enhance the room's warm ambiance. The remodel successfully integrated rustic charm with French Country elegance, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment across the main living areas. #HomeRemodel #AuroraHome #FrenchCountryStyle #RusticDesign #KitchenRenovation #GreatRoomDesign #LoungeArea #InteriorDesign #OpenConcept

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

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

The Metropolitan Opera's Patron Lounge, now known as the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, underwent a significant redesign by ELLE DECOR A-Listers Christine and John Gachot of Gachot Studios. This renovation marks a new chapter for the storied space, originally decorated by Billy Baldwin when the opera house opened in 1966. The Gachots, longtime fans of the Met Opera, were tasked with refreshing the lounge to reflect contemporary luxury while honoring its rich history and the grand aesthetics of the opera house. The original lounge, characterized by its wall-to-wall windows and domed ceiling, was designed by Baldwin to offer practical, flexible seating areas for guests. However, after decades, the space required a modern update. The Gachots were selected for their expertise in warm, sophisticated interiors, demonstrated in previous luxury hospitality projects like the Pendry Manhattan West and Detroit’s Shinola Hotel. Their approach to the Met Opera lounge involved a deep dive into the Met’s extensive archives, studying original sketches and photographs to reinterpret Baldwin's vision while introducing a fresh perspective. Inspired by Baldwin's initial layout, the Gachots divided the lounge into distinct zones for various activities, including a bar area, comfortable sofas, and tables for gathering. This zoning strategy ensures that the space remains versatile and inviting. The design seamlessly integrates with the opera's iconic common areas, such as the lobby with its red carpeting and travertine accents. The chosen color palette of blush, red, and camel complements these existing elements, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the venue. One of the standout features of the redesigned lounge is a glittering gold custom carpet by Creative Matters, which evokes the effervescence of freshly popped Champagne, serving as a luxurious counterpoint to the lobby's famous red carpet. Other custom elements include a brass Amuneal bar, screens upholstered in Clarence House fabric, and all furniture supplied by Roche Bobois. The bathrooms feature fixtures by Waterworks from the Bond collection, designed in collaboration with Gachot, alongside Waterworks sinks, mirrors, and stone. The lounge's new name, the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, honors a managing director on the Met Opera’s board who generously funded the renovation. Access to this exclusive space is reserved for Metropolitan Opera sponsor members. The redesign is intended to symbolize a renewed commitment to attracting and nurturing a new generation of opera enthusiasts and patrons, a sentiment echoed by both Straz and the Gachots. The project underscores the importance of cultural institutions and the role of design in preserving and evolving these significant spaces. #MetropolitanOpera #LoungeRedesign #GachotStudios #LuxuryInteriorDesign #CulturalRenovation #HospitalityDesign #NewYorkDesign #OperaHouse #InteriorDecor

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 compiles a list of 14 leading architects and architectural designers in Charlotte, North Carolina, catering to individuals looking to build a new home or undertake significant home renovations. The selection criteria for this list include data from a reader survey, insights from industry experts, and customer reviews. The article clarifies that the list features both licensed architects and residential designers, emphasizing that both perform similar functions in the design process. It also notes that most architects in Charlotte typically charge a percentage of construction costs, a fixed fee, or an hourly rate for their services, with 9% of construction costs being a common percentage. The featured architects and firms demonstrate a wide range of styles and specializations. Pursley Dixon Architecture, known for custom residential work, has a national presence and has been highlighted in prominent publications. Ruard Veltman Architecture is recognized for hand-rendered design drawings and fluency in historical styles, maintaining a minimalist studio space to foster creativity. Frank Smith Residential Design, originating from New Orleans, offers diverse style inspirations, including English, French, Italian, and Mediterranean, with work featured in regional publications. Greg Perry Design integrates art and classic design into modern aesthetics, earning multiple "Best of Houzz Design" awards. Don Duffy Architecture brings over 30 years of experience, focusing on private homes and renovations in Charlotte's historic neighborhoods like Eastover, Dilworth, and Myers Park, and has received consistent Houzz awards. Kent Lineberger Architecture specializes in single-family custom renovations and new home designs across Charlotte, as well as lake and mountain regions of North Carolina. Meyer Greeson Paullin Benson, established in 1979, boasts extensive experience and has had their work featured in various national and local publications, also designing properties for resorts. Garret P Nelson Studio is presented as a rising star, emphasizing a personal approach to design centered on "creating home" and recognized for historic preservation projects. Schrader Design, founded in 1999, handles large-scale custom projects throughout the Southeast, designing homes for prominent figures. Elite Design Group, founded in 2003, offers versatile designs from farmhouses to Hamptons-style homes and provides an inventory of ready-to-build floor plans. Mermans Architecture & Design, led by Bryan Mermans, is noted for its unique influences from rural Netherlands and custom mid-century modern renovations. The Studio of Christopher Phelps, established in 1989, has designed thousands of homes across the Carolinas. Cox Architecture, an award-winning firm founded in 2003, specializes in renovations, additions, and new single-family homes, showcasing a range from lowcountry cabins to modern warehouses and accumulating numerous industry awards. Finally, Perry Poole Architects, an architectural, interiors, and building collective, challenges traditional architecture with projects in major U.S. cities and is recognized for innovative residential designs. #CharlotteArchitecture #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesigners #ResidentialDesign #HomeRenovation #CustomHomes #NorthCarolinaArchitects #LuxuryHomes

Multimillion-selling music artist Darius Rucker, widely known for his band Hootie and the Blowfish, undertook a significant historic home renovation project in his hometown of Charleston, South Carolina. The project centered around restoring a vacant landmark with a complex past, transforming it into a vibrant family residence while honoring its historical integrity. Rucker's decision to renovate stemmed from a desire to give the house a new chapter, particularly after learning it was built by enslaved people for a slave owner. A core principle of the renovation was to preserve as much of the original craftsmanship as possible, acknowledging the extraordinary skill of the original builders. The renovation process was meticulously documented in the show 'Rucker’s Reno' by The Design Network, which also explored Charleston's rich cultural and social evolution. The project involved a team of experts, including architects, historical consultants, and interior designers, who worked to modernize the home while respecting its heritage. Several key areas of the house underwent remarkable transformations. The kitchen, initially sectioned off with an elevator and office cubicles, was a major focus. By removing these later additions, the team successfully opened up the space, revealing and highlighting original Federal period architectural details such as cornices, a mantle, and wainscoting. The design opted for no upper cabinets to emphasize these historic features, instead incorporating a sensitively designed built-in cabinet for storage, creating a balance between functionality and historical preservation. In the living room, the challenge was to refresh existing intricate details, including ceiling designs, molding, and an original hearth, while simultaneously updating the room to feel lighter, airier, and more contemporary. Architectural historian Kristopher King noted that this room, despite being an addition, remained the primary entertaining space. The renovation involved refreshing finishes, restoring the fireplace, and installing new period flooring, which complements the room's grand scale and high ceilings, effectively blending old and new elements. The dining room required minimal structural intervention. The renovators focused on behind-the-walls improvements, such as rewiring and installing new HVAC systems, carefully avoiding disruption to the original finishes. King highlighted the dining room's exquisite details, including the stunning mantelpiece, cornice work, and wainscoting, which were cleaned and repainted. This room serves as a testament to the skill and craft of the original builders, showcasing how preservation can maintain historical beauty. The primary bedroom presented a unique challenge due to its rounded walls. To accommodate modern amenities like a TV, an innovative solution was devised: hiding the television in the ceiling, controlled by a remote that also managed shades and lights. The large room was thoughtfully arranged to create an inviting atmosphere. Similar to the living room, the bedroom saw refreshed finishes, a restored fireplace, new flooring, and the introduction of a more contemporary design palette, ensuring comfort and modern living within a historic context. Finally, a peculiar, vault-like room with thick concrete walls and no windows was transformed from a former safe into a creative music room. Windows were added to introduce natural light, and the walls were hand-painted to resemble concrete, acknowledging its past while giving it a new, inviting purpose. This conversion turned a dark, functional space into a vibrant area for creativity, symbolizing the broader theme of revitalizing the historic home for a new era. #HomeRestoration #HistoricHomes #CharlestonArchitecture #DariusRucker #BeforeAndAfterRenovation #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #InteriorDesign #RenovationProject

The Ahmed family, consisting of Mahfuza, her husband Mehran, and their toddler, sought a single-family home in Charlestown after outgrowing their Back Bay apartment. Mahfuza's extensive spice collection and frequent visits from her mother necessitated more space. They acquired a mid-19th-century Greek Revival row house, spanning 2,850 square feet. While the main structure largely met their needs, a narrow, two-story back wing, tapering to just 8 feet wide, presented an awkward layout and experienced vibrations during Mehran's treadmill workouts. To address these issues and create a dedicated gym and hangout area in the basement, as well as improve the second-floor layout, they enlisted Isamu Kanda of I-Kanda Architects. Kanda, known for expanding homes with limited footprints, transformed the previously dark and low-ceilinged basement. The basement ceiling, initially around 6 feet high with exposed pipes, was dramatically improved by excavating 30 inches down, with an additional 6 inches for a sunken gym area accommodating the treadmill and overhead exercises. Natural light was introduced into this subterranean space through a large, open stairwell built behind the main house, alongside the narrow wing. Granite stairs descend from the patio to an 11-foot-wide, floor-to-ceiling slider, providing direct access and ample light to the new underground rooms. The granite stairs and trim complement the existing granite window headers and sills on the house's exterior. Ipe-clad concrete planters lining the stairwell are designed for climbing vines, creating a natural 'green wall' to integrate the outdoors with the interior. The seating area in the basement benefits from abundant natural light, enhanced by polished floor tiles and a large mirror in the adjacent gym. A floor-to-ceiling glass wall separates the gym and seating areas, allowing light to pass through while minimizing noise, with an option for privacy curtains on an embedded ceiling track. On the first floor, the kitchen, located in the back wing, underwent cabinetry upgrades by Divine Design Center, preserving its original layout. A key improvement was the addition of pantry storage, achieved by installing cabinetry along the back wall that blends with the wall paneling. This extra storage, including space for Mahfuza's spices, helps maintain a tidy kitchen, often surprising guests who learn they have a toddler. This new cabinetry covered a mural painted by the previous owner's mother, a detail Mahfuza humorously anticipates someone discovering in the future. The added depth from the cabinets also improved the room's proportions and scale. A built-in bench was incorporated to maximize seating and define the eating area. Mahfuza also redecorated the dining and living rooms with new paint, furniture, and lighting. On the second floor, Kanda reconfigured the space near the primary bedroom and nursery, along with the entire rear wing. The original layout was problematic, requiring passage through a bathroom and laundry room to reach the back bedroom. Kanda converted the bathroom at the top of the main staircase into a hallway, incorporating a washer and dryer on one side. The former laundry room in the wing was transformed into a bright landing with floor-to-ceiling closets and a built-in bench. The rest of the wing was converted into a luxurious primary bathroom, featuring a checkerboard-patterned floor chosen by Mahfuza to avoid an overly modern aesthetic. A glass wall separates the vanity and toilet area from the wet room, which includes an overhead rain shower and a soaking tub positioned under a new skylight, infusing the space with sunlight. The architect's modifications successfully transformed what was once a convoluted layout into a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and well-lit home. #HomeRenovation #CharlestownRowHouse #BasementExcavation #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #HistoricHomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #ModernLiving

The Kaufman House, a historical landmark in Zelienople, Pennsylvania, originally built in 1902, has undergone a significant restoration after being severely damaged by a fire in 2011. This 121-year-old building, which served as a hotel, factory worker housing, and an iconic tavern, was a vital rest stop for travelers and a community focal point. After the fire, the building remained closed until 2020, facing potential demolition. However, the Zelienople Borough recognized its cultural and economic importance, purchasing it in 2017 with a state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Grant to ensure its preservation. The restoration project aimed to maintain the building's original aesthetic, particularly concerning its windows. James Druschel, former vice president of finance and CFO of Veka, played a crucial role by initiating the project and facilitating the donation of window profiles from Veka Inc. Wincore Windows contributed by charging only for labor, glass, and hardware. The choice was made to use residential windows, specifically the 7700 Series from Veka, to replicate the original single-hung, wood windows. These included double-hung, fixed, and awning glass windows, with picture windows on the street level and double-hung windows on the upper floors. The 7700 Series is an LC-rated product, deemed suitable for the project. Technical specifications include white interior and exterior frames and low-e argon insulated glass with a 0.29 U-value, totaling 51 double-hungs, 30 fixed, and 3 awning windows. Beyond windows, the restoration also involved reinforcing the Main Street-facing balcony on the second floor with beams and updating it with VEKAdeck in Signature Storm color and white Veka rails, with the contractor receiving a reduced price for these materials. The rehabilitation proved more extensive than initially anticipated, as structural deficiencies were progressively discovered. Many previous repairs had overlooked structural integrity, leading to a situation where 60 percent of the building's structural integrity was found to be compromised and required replacement. The interior was gutted, re-walled, rewired, and re-plumbed, essentially rebuilt to meet modern codes. In its reimagined state, the Kaufman House now serves multiple purposes. The ground floor has been re-established as a restaurant, coffee shop, and bar. The second floor features a banquet hall, retail and office spaces, and meeting rooms. The third floor accommodates the regional office of a marketing firm. The basement is designed to host entrepreneurs offering complementary products to the restaurant. To ensure compliance with local codes, an elevator and a new stairwell were installed. Looking ahead, the building is also slated to function as a boutique hotel and a training facility for the tourism, culinary arts, and hospitality industries, further cementing its role as a revitalized community asset. #HistoricPreservation #BuildingRestoration #ArchitecturalDesign #WindowRenovation #KaufmanHouse #CommunityRevitalization #VekaWindows #WincoreWindows #ZelienoplePennsylvania

The Nolintha Residence, an American Foursquare from the 1920s, underwent a significant transformation from a state of disrepair into a fully restored and updated three-bedroom home. The clients, a brother-sister duo and successful restaurateurs, enlisted in situ studio to renovate the historic structure with a layout optimized for large food-related events. The project presented unique challenges, primarily due to the Raleigh Historic District Commission’s (RHDC) mandate to preserve the front and side facades largely unchanged, despite the home’s severely decayed condition. The architects described the existing state as having brick mortar that had turned to powder and rotten exterior trim, allowing water to compromise the walls. Adding to the complexity, the home's prior use as a rental unit with three separate tenant spaces resulted in a "haphazard" layout and compromised load-bearing elements. Consequently, in situ studio performed a gut renovation, which involved removing much of the interior framing and installing new structural components from the top down. Essential systems such as plumbing, mechanical, and electrical were entirely replaced. While the RHDC's restrictions applied to the exterior, the architects were afforded creative freedom with the interior, leading to a contemporary, light-filled refresh. The ground floor was reconfigured into an open-plan layout, integrating the kitchen, dining room, and living area around a central bathroom and storage unit. A significant art wall now defines the entry space, separating the kitchen and informal eating area from the dining and living spaces that connect to the backyard. Notably, a west-wall fireplace was preserved due to structural integrity concerns. Upstairs, the design team created three distinct bedroom suites, providing private accommodations for a guest and each sibling. These bedrooms are designed to be separate, well-lit, and offer views of the surrounding area and downtown Raleigh. The most distinctive feature of the renovation is the rear of the home, which adopted a surprisingly modern architectural style, humorously referred to as a "mullet" design. This stark contrast to the traditional front facade incorporates durable fiber-cement HardiePlank cladding. An updated south-facing deck, sheltered by the upstairs addition, extends from the main floor living spaces to the backyard, enhancing the home’s outdoor connection. Throughout the interior, white oak tongue-and-groove flooring was installed, contributing to a cohesive and elegant aesthetic. The kitchen features Cosmos Quartz countertops, custom Dopko Cabinetry, and a Soapstone backsplash, reflecting a blend of functionality and modern design. An informal eating space is conveniently located beneath the stair, adjacent to the kitchen, while a new staircase, placed next to original windows, ascends to a brightly lit hall above. The project successfully transformed a decaying 1920s American Foursquare into a modern, functional home, ensuring its usability for another fifty years. #HistoricHomeRenovation #MulletArchitecture #InSituStudio #RaleighHistoricDistrict #AmericanFoursquare #InteriorDesign #ModernAddition #StructuralRenovation #AdaptiveReuse

The article provides an update on the original cast members of the ABC reality home renovation series 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,' which aired from 2004 to 2012 and is now available for streaming on Netflix. The show was known for its host, Ty Pennington, and his team of designers, architects, and carpenters who built dream homes for deserving families. Ty Pennington, the show's host, won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his role. After the show concluded, he hosted 'The Revolution' in 2012 and the 'Trading Spaces' revival in 2018. In 2021, he married Kellee Merrell. His career continued to thrive despite a personal setback involving a DUI arrest in 2007. Paul DiMeo, the resident carpenter, known for his emotional reactions on the show, currently resides in Los Angeles with his wife, Kelly Lynn. Tracy Hutson, the interior stylist, remained with the series until its end in 2012. Post-'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,' she appeared on 'The Design Network series Momtourage' and participated in BitCon Miami in 2021. Michael Moloney, the interior designer for nine seasons, sold his Nashville home for $1.8 million in 2023, indicating continued success in his design career. He maintains an active presence on Instagram. Paige Hemmis, another carpenter on the show, continues her involvement in home improvement, currently hosting 'Home & Family' on the Hallmark Channel and is married to singer Jason Short. Eduardo Xol, the show's landscaper who joined in Season 2, has less publicly available information about his current activities. John Littlefield, a carpenter from Season 4 to Season 8, appeared in 'Squeaky Clean Mysteries: Hazardous Duty' in 2022 and now promotes his Airbnb properties. Ed Sanders, a British carpenter who endured a serious injury during Season 4 but continued for five more seasons, is married to Gioia and has four children. He has since deleted his social media accounts, making his current endeavors less known. Preston Sharp, the exteriors lead for the first four seasons, has worked in production design for other reality shows such as 'The Bachelor' and 'The Simple Life.' #ExtremeMakeoverHomeEdition #RealityTV #HomeRenovation #TyPennington #CastUpdate #Television #Netflix #InteriorDesign #Carpentry

The Clifton, a historic inn in Charlottesville, Virginia, originally built in 1799, has undergone a significant interior revamp by Blackberry Farm Design. The 100-acre estate, once owned by Thomas Jefferson's son-in-law, Thomas Mann Randolph Jr., has operated as an inn since the mid-1980s. A recent change of ownership prompted a cosmetic refresh to introduce a more contemporary aesthetic while respecting the building's historical integrity. Blackberry Farm Design approached the renovation by keeping the structural elements of the inn intact, focusing instead on updating the 20 guest rooms and main living spaces. The previous neutral color scheme with traditional furnishings served as a "clean slate" for the Tennessee-based design firm. The renovation introduced new wallpaper, paint, artwork, and modern light fixtures and furnishings throughout the property. In the common areas, a balance between modern and traditional elements was key. The foyer features Phillip Jeffries’ tranquil blue Fade Sea Spray wallpaper, subtly referencing the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains visible from the property. The former check-in area was transformed into a sophisticated lounge, complete with a round "sociable sofa" upholstered in Kravet Verbier Diamond fabric in Leaf/Teal and banquettes in Lee Jofa’s Saranac Cord fabric in gold. The bar and an adjacent lounge area saw the most hands-on transformation, with the front desk removed and the bar elongated. A new bar-back, constructed from wood shelving supported by copper piping, enhances the space. The Library, now serving as a dining room, received a bold color scheme with walls and paneling painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stiffkey Blue, complemented by a lighter shade on the ceiling and a sleek Dallas Chandelier from Arteriors. Built-in bookcases and a long banquette, upholstered in Kravet’s Versailles Velvet fabric, were also installed. The veranda, a popular dining spot overlooking the back lawn, was brightened with soft green paint on the coffered-bead board ceilings and wrought iron chairs, along with new light fixtures. On the second floor, the six bedrooms were refreshed with new paint, light fixtures, and furnishings. Certain original pieces, such as rustic pine demitasse tables in the foyer, an armoire, and bedside tables in guest suites, were retained to maintain the inn's historical character, paired with modern additions to create an "unpredictable look" combining comfort, tradition, and contemporary style. Beyond the main inn, the original carriage house was converted into a bridal suite with three guest rooms, featuring large windows and vaulted ceilings for a bright atmosphere. Randolph’s former law office, now a garden cottage, also offers two updated bedrooms with crisp white paint, new linens, and light fixtures. The old livery, situated by the 20-acre Arabella Lake, was transformed into three guest suites with private patios, complete with cozy living areas and king-size beds upholstered in rich turquoise velvet. An infinity pool and cabanas provide a quiet retreat for guests. The renovation successfully blends the property's rich history with modern luxury, creating a unique guest experience. #HotelRemodel #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHospitality #Charlottesville #VirginiaTravel #BlackberryFarmDesign #BoutiqueHotel #SouthernCharm

In 1788, the Enlightenment society Felix Meritis, Latin for 'Happy Through Merit,' constructed its namesake clubhouse on an Amsterdam canal. The building, designed by Neoclassical architect Jacob Otten Husly, served as a hub for members to study various disciplines like music, natural sciences, drawing, commerce, and literature, embodying the rational principles of Enlightenment thought through its Corinthian-style facade and geometrically shaped rooms. A century later, after the society's dissolution, the building underwent several transformations, serving as a printing factory, the Dutch Communist party headquarters, and a 1960s cabaret, yet it remarkably maintained its architectural integrity despite wear and tear. In 2014, Amerborgh, an investment firm with a focus on the arts, acquired the landmarked Felix Meritis. The company aimed to repurpose it as a cultural center, leveraging its renovated spaces as event venues to support various programs. Tasked with revitalizing the 50,000-square-foot interior, i29, led by co-founder and partner Jeroen Dellensen, sought to bring the historic building 'into the now.' Their approach involved respecting the original architecture while infusing contemporary design elements to appeal to a younger demographic. This restoration project necessitated a careful balance between preserving historical aspects and introducing innovative designs. Working alongside MATH Architecten, which managed structural renovations, i29 co-founders Jeroen Dellensen and Jaspar Jansen focused on cultivating the individual character of each space. They found inspiration in the building's original use by the Felicians, who organized it by departments, allowing each room to retain its distinct function and story. The building's layout, divided by a five-story wooden staircase, comprises 11 staggered levels. A key requirement from the city was the meticulous restoration of two historically significant areas: the oval Concertzaal, renowned as one of Europe's premier small classical-music halls, and the Zuilenzaal, a colonnaded reception room. In the Concertzaal, where Beethoven's Ninth Symphony premiered in the Netherlands, a chromatic analysis revealed the original wall color between the pilasters was a brown-tinted beige, which was reinstated to restore the room's serene ambiance. To accommodate modern musical performances, i29 incorporated discreet, pivoting wall panels that optimize acoustics and conceal electronic equipment. MATH seamlessly integrated new mechanical systems within the existing structure, rendering them invisible in the auditorium. For the majestic Zuilenzaal, i29 opted for a more minimalist approach, stripping back boiserie and stabilizing cracked wood columns, leaving the room largely in its found state. This 'un-Photoshopped' authenticity required carefully dismantling and reassembling fragile woodwork to integrate modern ventilation and sound systems, making the Zuilenzaal a highly sought-after venue. i29 introduced significant visual diversity in the remaining rooms, utilizing color and texture as primary design tools. They incorporated crisply geometric, often mirrored, built-in cabinetry and furniture to create a striking contrast with the classical surroundings, thereby giving these spaces a unique identity and importance comparable to the historic rooms. The main entry is flanked by a reception area and Felix, a 100-seat restaurant. In the reception, custom tufted-shag wall coverings reproduce an 18th-century etching of a Felician meeting, offering a historical greeting to modern visitors. The restaurant's walls are adorned with woven textiles depicting Amsterdam's skies, immersing diners in a Dutch landscape. The Shaffyzaal, a domed, oval room above the Concertzaal, was once a physics lab and later a popular nightspot. Named after performer Ramses Shaffy, its acoustical perforated-steel panels feature an ombré effect, fading from deep to pale blue, evoking its psychedelic past. Jansen emphasizes that this contrast between contemporary and historical elements invigorates both. In the attic Koepelzaal, exposed timber roof beams lend a modern angularity. Dellensen highlights the firm's narrative approach, embedding stories within the design to add depth to the interiors. In the Teekenzaal, formerly the drawing studio, translucent fabric rectangles suspended from the ceiling diffuse light and symbolize the paper used by the Felicians, bringing the spirit of the Enlightenment to life. #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #HistoricalPreservation #AmsterdamLandmark #CulturalCenter #NeoclassicalArchitecture #i29Design #FelixMeritis #RestorationProject

The Russell, a new 23-room boutique hotel in East Nashville, exemplifies adaptive reuse by transforming the historic Edgefield Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Developed by Anchor Investments and designed by Powell Architecture + Building Studio, the project aimed to preserve the building's impressive architectural heritage while infusing it with the vibrant, eclectic character of East Nashville. The hotel also has a philanthropic mission, with proceeds from its "Room for Rooms" program supporting Nashville’s homeless community through free housing, showers, and meals. The design narrative for The Russell is largely inspired by the building's original 1904 Romanesque facade and its two arresting, 16-foot stained-glass rose windows in the lobby. The color schemes throughout the property, including the bright tile arrangements and the herringbone wood floor pattern in the lobby, mirror the hues illuminated by these windows. The lobby itself is an airy space featuring a 40-foot ceiling, gold chenille curtains that create "confessional" alcoves, and a wall adorned with "church banners" hand-sewn and painted by Chicago-based artist Shelby Rodeffer of Finer Things. One notable banner, _Queens of Country_, pays tribute to Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynette, drawing inspiration from masonic regalia and local culture. During construction, a significant discovery was made: the church's attic possessed substantial unused volume and potential. This led Powell Architecture + Building Studio to swiftly revise their plans, incorporating the space into the design. The unexpected addition of a third floor resulted in five extra guest rooms, including a bi-level suite that creatively integrates the church’s imposing bell tower into a meditative sleeping area. The guest rooms, largely converted from former auditorium and classroom spaces, welcome guests with illuminated door markers crafted by New York lighting studio Rich Brilliant Willing, which are formatted like Biblical verses. The rooms feature exposed brick walls and headboards fashioned from vintage church pews, blending historical elements with contemporary design. A collective of over a dozen local artists and makers contributed to the modern touches, such as the arched wooden bathroom mirrors by Maple Built and powder-coated sconces by Southern Light Electric. Color-blocked walls, echoing the lobby’s stained-glass window hues, further tie the rooms to the building’s past. Efficient wardrobes designed by Holler Design integrate amenities like a built-in fridge, safe, coffeemaker, and desk. This thoughtful integration of old and new creates a welcoming and uniquely characterful experience for guests, all while contributing to a meaningful cause. #HotelConversion #AdaptiveReuse #ChurchRenovation #BoutiqueHotel #NashvilleDesign #HistoricPreservation #CommunityImpact #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalHeritage