Built in 1908, This Former Carriage House has a Surprise Mid-Century Modern Interior

After a seven-year stint in New York, Dana and Hicks Poor, both Marietta natives, returned to their hometown only to find suitable housing scarce. The couple, initially considering new construction, stumbled upon a foreclosure notice on a midcentury-era house they had always admired while Dana was on a walk near the square. Despite its dilapidated state, the house exuded a modern energy that resonated with the couple's aesthetic. Dana, an interior designer, and Hicks, a general contractor, were undeterred by the extensive repairs needed. They viewed the house's potential as a sign and an opportunity for a joint project, having long collected period furniture and being enthusiasts of midcentury architecture and design. The home's structural damage necessitated a complete gut renovation. However, the Poors meticulously salvaged some original lighting and fixtures, and made the decision to reconstruct an almost identical floor plan, replicating many of the original architectural details. Dana noted that the original layout was so well-conceived that there was no need for alteration, and it perfectly aligned with their own design preferences. Built in 1957, the house was designed by Gloria Kidd Brown, a notable Marietta resident and one of Georgia Tech's pioneering female graduates, who later studied at the New York School of Interior Design and worked with prominent architects like John Portman. Hicks described the brick-and-redwood house as an anomaly in a neighborhood predominantly characterized by traditional cottages. The original owners had sought a California-inspired design, similar to the split-level homes gaining popularity on the West Coast at the time. The interior design of the restored home incorporates a blend of old and new elements. The dining room features a Danish walnut table alongside a modern blown-glass bubble chandelier and a rug from West Elm. A salvaged 'Hicks Grocery' sign, though unrelated to the family, adds a local touch. Natural light is abundant throughout the house, a feature Hicks particularly appreciates. Vintage furniture, such as a Knoll desk and an Adrian Pearsall dresser, is complemented by pieces like a living room sofa acquired from a neighbor, a lawyer who had preserved it specifically for the house's next owners. The Poors are not strict purists, blending patterned rugs and other contemporary items with their midcentury collection, ensuring every piece tells a story. The home's open-plan layout is well-suited for the couple's two daughters, Sydney, eight, and Holland, six, who occupy the entire second floor due to the house's master-on-main configuration. The durability of vintage furniture also proves practical for a family with children. Hicks values the simplicity of midcentury design and the thoughtful connection between each room, highlighting architectural elements like the wooden soffits and sculptural stair railing. Beyond their personal project, the article also touches upon the broader revival of midcentury architecture in Atlanta. Events like Modern Atlanta's annual tour and the DeKalb History Center's exhibit, 'The Mid-Century Ranch House: Hip and Historic!', underscore this growing appreciation. Several Atlanta neighborhoods are identified as having significant midcentury architectural presence, including Collier Heights, Sagamore Hills, and Northcrest. The Cecil and Hermione Alexander House, designed by architect Cecil Alexander, is also cited as a notable example, having been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. #MidcenturyModern #HomeRestoration #Marietta #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #GloriaKiddBrown #DanaHicksPoor #VintageFurniture #AtlantaArchitecture

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

The article highlights the listing of Case Study House #16, designed by architect Craig Ellwood, for $5.395 million in Bel Air, Los Angeles. This midcentury modern residence, built in 1953, is noted as the only Case Study House by Ellwood that remains in its original condition. The property is situated at 1811 Bel Air Road, offering a rare opportunity to own a significant piece of architectural history that embodies the quintessential California lifestyle. The Case Study House Program, launched by Arts & Architecture magazine in 1945, aimed to introduce innovative concepts for efficient and modern living. House #16 is an exemplary representation of this initiative. It features a design that integrates seamlessly with its environment, characterized by its airy, seemingly floating structure, glass walls, and pavilion-like form. The design emphasizes a direct connection to nature, with abundant natural light and an open layout that extends to the outdoors and the garden. With a footprint of 1,664 square feet, the house includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a laundry area, and a two-car carport. The lot size spans 0.19 acres. A notable feature is its elevated site near the top of Bel Air Road, which provides panoramic city and ocean views to the south and west. The meticulous documentation of the Case Study Houses allowed the current owner to restore much of the property to its original specifications and finishes, ensuring its historical integrity. Interior details include a flexible space near the living area that can be privatized with a curtain, and walls that stop about a foot shy of the roof, fostering a sense of connection between rooms. The home's steel framing is painted red, adding a distinctive pop of color. The living room features a fireplace that shares a chimney with an outdoor fireplace, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The property is listed by Veronika Sznajder of Crosby Doe Associates and represents a unique chance to acquire a meticulously maintained midcentury time capsule that remains true to the architect's original vision. #CraigEllwood #CaseStudyHouse #MidcenturyModern #BelAirRealEstate #ArchitecturalHistory #LosAngelesHomes #RealEstateListing #ModernArchitecture

This article details the transformation of an old stud farm in Longwood, northern Victoria, into a contemporary family home optimized for entertaining. Originally composed of various stables and worker's cottages, the property underwent a significant redesign by interior designer Merinda Garrett. The core of this renovation focused on integrating Cantilever Interiors' tailored kitchen and whole-home EDIT system, which played a crucial role in establishing the home's warm and inviting atmosphere while catering to the client's desire for a space suitable for hosting guests. The project addressed the challenge of harmonizing the property's historical essence and previous renovations with a modern vision. Cantilever Interiors' creative director, Kylie Forbes, explains that the EDIT system's American Oak veneer features, combined with marble benchtops and powder-coated steel shelves, were instrumental in achieving a refined and integrated design throughout the kitchen. The kitchen systems are highly configurable, allowing for seamless integration of appliances and diverse layout options. Beyond the kitchen, the EDIT system extends its influence to a dedicated bar solution, creating an ultimate dining area with ample storage that balances practicality with luxury, all beneath high-vaulted ceilings. The use of timber is consistent throughout the home, exemplified by a custom-built sideboard and unit collaboratively designed by Cantilever and Future Automation. This unit ingeniously conceals a television with a retractable mechanism, ensuring that the stunning views from the property can be enjoyed unobstructed when the screen is not in use. The exterior of the home also benefits from Cantilever's design expertise, featuring an outdoor kitchen that serves as a secondary entertainment hub. This outdoor space is equipped with an integrated fridge and barbecue, designed to facilitate outdoor events and allow the family to enjoy the deck and pool area with views of the distant Goorum Falls. The design choices, particularly the material palette, were inspired by the surrounding natural environment and its seasonal color changes, fostering a deep connection between the interior and the landscape. The resulting residence successfully embodies the clients' dream lifestyle, offering versatile spaces for year-round enjoyment and reflecting the regional beauty. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryHome #KitchenDesign #CantileverInteriors #EDITSystem #Longwood #TimberAccents #EntertainingSpaces

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

Interior design studio Kitesgrove undertook a comprehensive renovation and two-wing extension of a 1930s country house in the south-east of England, transforming a dated property into an elegant family home. The project spanned just over two years, including delays due to the Covid pandemic. The clients' primary objective was to ensure the house remained a welcoming and comfortable family home for all generations, preserving nostalgic elements and incorporating cherished heirloom furniture and artwork. The resulting design is a rural retreat that harmoniously blends traditional features with contemporary aesthetics. The kitchen design focused on creating a soft palette, with cabinets painted in Desert Rose by Paint & Paper Library, a chalky pink with gray undertones that subtly changes with natural light. Portland Stone flooring was installed in a herringbone pattern to introduce a rustic, country feel and add visual interest. A mobile butcher's block island was included to provide versatility and functionality for cooking and entertaining. The breakfast room features original antique dining furniture, adding a sense of history, complemented by soft pendant lighting and fabric blinds, creating an informal dining space with almond and pink tones. The family room, designed for relaxation and enjoyment by all generations, overlooks the garden with wide double doors, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Natural colors and organic forms were prioritized, with a plush rug featuring blues and greens as the starting point for the scheme, connecting the room to the garden. Eau de nil cabinets further echo the rug's colors, while ample storage for games and toys, along with deep, comfortable seating, caters to family needs. A vintage drinks trolley was incorporated to layer new and old pieces, giving the impression of a curated collection over time. The formal dining room, centrally located, was envisioned with rich and deep tones to distinguish it from the home's more muted schemes. An antique tapestry, sourced in Paris, became the focal point, inspiring the deep blue color chosen for the walls and woodwork, creating an immersive and atmospheric environment. The dining table and chairs combine natural materials like wood, cane, and leather, emphasizing both aesthetics and practicality. Adjacent to the dining room, the study features a rich, earthy mauve-brown palette, selected to create a cocooning atmosphere conducive to concentration or relaxation. Mid-century inspired pieces, including a Sebastian Cox Bayleaf desk and an upholstered chair with leather armrests, blend classic and modern styles. A striped blind in an ochre color adds a touch of pattern and acts as a focal point, while a dusty pink velvet armchair and pressed botanicals from the client's collection complete the scheme, linking colors with the interlinked reception room. The glass extensions incorporate a main bedroom in each, with a corridor leading to one of the bedrooms. These extensions feature glazing on three sides and timber beams, maximizing natural light and garden views. A desk in the corridor serves as both a workspace and dressing table. A guest bedroom was designed to be calming and neutral, with natural tones and textures, and bespoke built-in wardrobes. Children's attic bedrooms were conceived as cozy hideaways with playful details, designed to evolve with the children. Colors were chosen for continuity, with one room featuring Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball, complemented by a striped headboard and mid-century bedside chests. Another children's room, enveloped in Green Smoke by Farrow & Ball, uses mustard accents to add depth. The main bedroom schemes feature soft pinks and neutrals, focusing on texture and form, with deeper tones like burgundy and indigo for accentuation. The color inspiration came from a maple tree visible from both main bedrooms, creating a warm pink hue through sheer curtains. The design ensured seamless curtain integration within the timber frame of the extension for full coverage. A sculptural reading chair upholstered in neutral linen, with claret-toned cushions, complements the maple tree backdrop. A linen headboard and burgundy cushions, along with an indigo throw, provide natural textures and link to the external landscape, completing the timeless and elegant design. #CountryHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #Kitesgrove #ClassicModern #FamilyHome #ElegantInteriors #TraditionalContemporary

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a 1927 Tudor-style house in Riverdale, New York, transforming its traditional interior into an avant-garde space. Purchased by Fritz and Lee Michel, the house initially featured a dated aesthetic with floral-print wallpaper and an abundance of brown tones. Designer Molly Luetkemeyer, founder of M. Design Interiors, spearheaded the project, drawing inspiration from the Wiener Werkstätte movement, contemporary to the house's original construction. This movement, known for its black and white geometric shapes and vibrant accents, became the guiding principle for the new interior. The renovation involved extensive structural changes to open up the cramped original layout. Thaddeus Briner of Architecture Outfit collaborated with Riccoboni Contracting to create a light-filled, open-plan living space. The entire renovation process spanned two years, allowing meticulous attention to detail, including a custom triangle-patterned carpet for the stairs, reminiscent of 1920s Viennese design. Each area of the house received a thoughtful modern update. The frequently used basement level, serving as the family’s primary entrance due to the house’s hillside location, was not overlooked. It was revitalized with a colorful paint scheme, bespoke cabinetry, and polished concrete floors. A central, open-concept kitchen was also integrated into the design. A key aspect of the project was the strong collaborative dynamic between the Michels and Luetkemeyer. Lee Michel contributed the idea for an Yves Klein blue dining-room table, while Fritz Michel sourced a unique chain-mail curtain to serve as a room divider from a Canadian armor maker. Even the couple's young daughters participated, requesting neon tubing, which Luetkemeyer translated into personalized nameplates above their beds. The most challenging design decision was the smoky-black color chosen for the living room, which required some persuasion but ultimately became one of the house’s most elegant and memorable features. The article highlights how the design team successfully merged the historical charm of the Tudor exterior with a bold, contemporary interior, creating a family-friendly home that is both personal and stylish, while subtly nodding to the architectural era's modern design movements. #DesignHunting #InteriorRenovation #TudorStyle #AvantGardeDesign #MollyLuetkemeyer #WienerWerkstätte #HomeDesign #RiverdaleRenovation #ModernInterior

Architect Rafe Churchill and designer Heide Hendricks of Hendricks Churchill revisited a Connecticut farmhouse project a decade after its initial renovation to add a guest house. The original 1820 farmhouse, located on nearly 50 acres in the Oblong Valley, was in poor condition when clients Purdy and Josh Eaton purchased it. Hendricks Churchill undertook a significant renovation in 2015, which included rebuilding the chimney, raising the kitchen ceiling, and adding a side entrance. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Eatons decided to reside full-time in Sharon, Connecticut, and initiated the second phase of development for their property. This involved a master plan that included a carriage house, a greenhouse, and a swimming pool. The design team chose to construct a freestanding carriage house rather than physically connecting it to the main house, to maintain traditional authenticity and align with the rural setting. The clients required a three-car garage, which influenced the dimensions of the carriage house. To prevent the structure from appearing solely as a garage, the architects designed it with a cubic mass that integrated well with the goal of creating a "new-old" carriage house. The interiors of the carriage house were designed to offer a more casual and practical atmosphere than the main house, incorporating bold patterns, diverse colors, and an eclectic mix of contemporary and mid-century modern furnishings. This space was intended for entertainment, featuring a generous home office, an exercise gym, an indoor sauna, and a recreation room with a pool table. The billiard room, for instance, features beadboard walls painted in Farrow & Ball’s Sulking Room Pink and a Porter Teleo wallpaper on the ceiling. The powder room extends the signature beadboard profile to chair-rail height, complemented by a large-scale Pierre Frey pattern above. The guest bedroom includes a pastoral landscape mural from Calico Wallpaper, a Studio Ilse bed with a vintage gingham throw, a 1940s Swedish club chair, and a mid-century modern pendant. A unique element implemented in the garage was a painted color-blocked “water line” on the vertical-grain fir beadboard. This design choice added a sense of history and durability, transforming the monochromatic space into one reminiscent of an older garage or factory, and subsequently became a signature design element for Hendricks Churchill's projects. The carriage house also features a cupola that allows dramatic light into the interior, with subtle pink walls by Farrow & Ball, making the windows glow warmly from the outside at night. The overall layout emphasizes an intimate cluster of buildings, fostering a sense of community. The greenhouse, installed by Alitex Glasshouses, sits on a foundation of waterstruck brick with custom mortar. The interconnectedness and visual relationship between the old and new structures contribute to a rich historical feel, making the entire project unique and special, as detailed in Hendricks and Churchill’s book, "Distinctly American: Home and Interiors." #CarriageHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #ConnecticutHome #HendricksChurchill #RuralLiving #GuestHouse #FarmhouseRenovation

Parker House, a mid-century modern home nestled on nearly seven acres of forested land in Gahanna, offers a tranquil escape minutes from downtown Columbus. Originally built in 1972 by architect George Parker as his family residence, the property faced demolition before its current owners, Ted Lin and Min Yong, acquired it in 2022. They embarked on a restoration project, aiming to blend contemporary comforts with the home's original architectural charm. The property features natural elements like creeks and a swimming pond, creating a "Hocking Hills nature getaway" ambiance close to urban conveniences. The interior design reflects a careful curation of mid-century modern aesthetics. The Lins sourced vintage furniture and artwork from various antique stores and shows, including Grandview Mercantile, Eclectiques on High Street, Main Street Modern in Canton, and events in Cincinnati and Dayton. Notable decor elements include a sunken bathtub in the master bathroom, unique wallpaper, and a collection of antique travel posters displayed throughout the home. The preservation and display of George Parker's original architectural prints further honor the home's history and design legacy. The owners' vision for Parker House was to create a space that offers the serene atmosphere of a nature retreat without sacrificing accessibility to Columbus. This intentional blend of natural surroundings and thoughtfully restored mid-century modern design provides a distinctive experience for guests. The property is available for various occasions, including family reunions, gatherings with friends, or local staycations. For those interested in experiencing this unique blend of architectural history and natural beauty, booking information is available online, with a special discount offered to 614Now readers. #MidCenturyModern #GahannaOhio #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRestoration #VintageDecor #ColumbusOhio #NatureEscape #InteriorDesign #UniqueHomes

In 2014, a house in the Meadow Lea neighborhood briefly served as a fraternity house set for the movie *Pitch Perfect 2*. Despite its temporary transformation into a chaotic film set, complete with beer pong tables and greasy pizza boxes, Whitney and Matt LaNasa saw beyond the props and recognized the potential for their future family home. The couple had already agreed to purchase the property, drawn to the Meadow Lea neighborhood's history and beautiful landscapes, particularly the house's large 1 1/4-acre lot shaded by oak and cypress trees, and its view of a rolling meadow and lake. Whitney, who specializes in restoring historic buildings, was keen on preserving the architecture of the well-built older home. Matt, having experience in home restoration and construction from assisting his parents and serving in the Marine Corps, was confident in his ability to oversee the renovation. After the film crew departed and the house officially became theirs, the LaNasas enlisted Matt's sister, architect Georgia LaNasa, and interior designer Anne McCanless, to re-envision the interior spaces. The renovation involved stripping the house down to its studs and opening up the galley kitchen by removing walls, creating an open-concept space that flows into the dining room and offers views of the backyard and lake. A new iron railing from DiStefano Designs & Fabrication now subtly divides the kitchen from the dining area. The renovation, which included installing new electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, was completed in six months under Matt's diligent oversight. The revamped home successfully blends its midcentury origins with a more timeless and functional aesthetic suitable for a family with two young children. It features two distinct living spaces, allowing both children and parents to have their own areas while remaining connected. McCanless selected contemporary-lined seating, upholstered in spill-proof Sunbrella fabrics, making the furniture durable and child- and pet-friendly, ideal for a home designed for entertaining. Further functional improvements included relocating the upstairs laundry room to create a master closet, and establishing a new downstairs laundry area combined with a mudroom featuring cubbies for the children. The LaNasas envision a second phase of renovation in the future, which will include adding a new master suite. The experience has inspired Matt to continue restoring homes in the Southdowns area during his off-hours, driven by his passion for construction and remodeling. The family expresses deep affection for their Meadow Lea neighborhood, appreciating its country-like atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and the sense of community that values its historical setting. Various design elements and materials were sourced locally. The dining room, once a film set, now features a whitewashed table, silver-leafed geometric dining chairs from Texture, and a hydrangea-filled vessel from Red Onion. Other details came from McMillin Interiors and Dixon Smith Interiors. The kitchen boasts Carrara marble countertops and a beveled subway-tile backsplash, with dirty-top floors installed by Blaine Thibodeaux from Higgins company. The upper-level living area includes a Sunbrella-upholstered Thayer Coggin sofa, small tables, and a rug from Dixon Smith Interiors, alongside an antique breakfront cabinet. The lower-level living room is decorated with soft blue hues and contrasting colors, featuring Lee Industries club chairs, a gold-accented marble coffee table, and floor lamps from Dixon Smith Interiors, with throw pillows from Texture. Custom Paul Yanko multimedia artworks from Ann Connelly Fine Art adorn the walls. The master bedroom, designed as a serene retreat, includes a mirror-framed tufted bed with Ann Gish bedding from Texture and Tritter Feefer nightstands with lamps from Texture. The master bath, too, was updated with elegant touches like Carrara marble floors, a freestanding oval tub, and a Billie S. Bourgeois painting from Ann Connelly Fine Art. The existing pool underwent minor rehabbing by Lucas Firmin Pools, and landscape architect Cynthia Cash redesigned the front yard with Japanese yew and dwarf camellias to complement the existing live oak trees. #HomeRenovation #MidcenturyModern #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #MeadowLea #BatonRougeHomes #OpenConceptLiving

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

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a 120-year-old historic carriage house on New York's Long Island by its new owner, Jamie Morgan, founder of Blake & Dane interior design studio. The property, originally part of a French Beaux-Arts style estate, presented a unique challenge: preserving its historical essence while adapting it for modern family living. Morgan and her husband, Chris, were drawn to the house's character and history, including its 12-foot ceilings, a 30-40 foot entryway cupola, and visible remnants of its past use, such as where hay entered and the original horse doors. The core objective of the renovation was to enhance these historical attributes without compromising contemporary comforts. The kitchen, initially a challenging long, narrow galley layout, was transformed into an intimate family space. A large kitchen island with seating on both sides was introduced to serve as a central gathering point for meals and entertaining. The high 12-foot ceilings, which could have posed a design constraint for cabinetry, were ingeniously addressed by integrating a library ladder and brass rail system, turning a potential problem into a distinctive feature. White kitchen cabinets with dark stone countertops and Signature Hardware pulls were used, with upper glass cabinets skinned in white oak, contributing to a tailored aesthetic. A custom-designed plaster cooker hood and Arabescato Antico marble backsplash further elevated the kitchen's traditional yet modern appeal. The dining room highlights many of the carriage house's original features, including warm-toned ceiling beams from its days as an outhouse. Railings around the stairs and raised floor spaces subtly nod to the former stalls and stables. To visually break up the open-plan living and dining area and add sophistication, elegant moldings and wainscoting were newly introduced. A custom black ash dining table paired with upholstered dining chairs from Arhaus ensures a sleek, contemporary look that harmonizes with the historic backdrop. An arched doorway off the kitchen leads to a butler's pantry, distinguished by its deep green/teal subway tile color scheme. This space provides practical storage with light oak cabinetry and dark wood open shelves, and serves as an additional food preparation area, compensating for the galley kitchen's smaller footprint. The home office masterfully combines old and new elements, featuring an original window alongside a newly installed white oak coffered ceiling. This traditional framework is juxtaposed with contemporary office furniture, including a streamlined desk and striking red chairs, and a Phillip Jeffries' Burled Chevron Carob wallcovering. The design ensures privacy while maintaining an open, airy feel, allowing the office to overlook the living space. The primary bedroom exudes a traditional ambiance with bespoke millwork creating a fitted look around the Arhaus bedframe. Benjamin Moore's Misty Gray on the walls and millwork offers a cool, restful atmosphere, complemented by colorful Milan bedding from Annie Selke, a large arched floor-standing mirror, and a white area rug. The primary bathroom was designed for luxury, incorporating Carrera marble tiles, Waterworks fixtures, and an Aerin Bonnington Chandelier. The layout specifically frames a freestanding bath beneath a window, with watery blue walls adding a shimmering effect. The overall renovation strategy prioritized preserving the home's unique character while upgrading amenities and adjusting the layout to suit modern family needs, resulting in a successful blend of historical charm and contemporary functionality. #InteriorDesign #HistoricRenovation #CarriageHouse #HomeTour #KitchenDesign #DiningRoom #HomeOffice #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign

Designer Lisa Tharp collaborated with TMS Architects to renovate an 1890s carriage house in New England, transforming it into a unique family home with a "fairy-tale" ambiance. The renovation focused on emphasizing the indoor-outdoor connection and preserving historical elements while integrating modern additions for a 21st-century family. The initial phase involved stripping back myriad additions to revert to the original footprint of the carriage house, which included notable features such as turrets, nooks, exposed rafters, and multiple fireplaces. These historical aspects were meticulously retained and integrated into the new design. Tharp's design philosophy incorporated a strategic use of color, treating singular vibrant colors, like amethyst in the living room, as neutrals by employing various shades and depths. This approach aimed to create a cohesive yet rich visual experience. To balance these strong color choices, neutral tones such as Benjamin Moore’s Galveston Gray and Farrow & Ball’s Pitch Black were introduced. The design also drew inspiration from a blend of European stone carriage houses and Napa Valley wineries, influencing the overall aesthetic. A key element of the renovation was enhancing the connection to the outdoors. Downstairs windows were left without treatments to maximize views of the New England countryside, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Rough beams were added around these windows, mirroring the exposed rafters inside, which themselves were treated with baking-soda abrasion to achieve a lighter, more contemporary appearance. The kitchen features gray cabinets and live-edge shelves built into a castle-like arch, further contributing to the envisioned aesthetic. The home boasts several distinctive design features, including numerous window seats – nine in total across various rooms, offering cozy spots with picturesque views. Lighting fixtures were chosen for their unique and artistic qualities, with modern and graphic pieces in the kitchen, oversized and airy chandeliers in the master bedroom, and geometric designs in the master bathroom. Tharp emphasized that vertical height in spaces allowed for larger, more impactful lighting choices. The kitchen's design was notably influenced by the client's preference for stone flooring, leading to the creation of a custom 18.5-foot-long double island with both stone and oak surfaces. The whimsical character of the home culminates in a turret bedroom adorned with lilac Phillip Jeffries grass cloth wallcovering and a window seat piled with cushions. This room exemplifies the designer's approach of combining diverse patterns and colors in a playful manner. Other notable areas include a landing with custom window seats and sconces, a porch with arches that inspired similar architectural elements throughout the house, and a master bathroom featuring floor-to-ceiling wall tile for enhanced impact. The project successfully merged historical integrity with modern living, creating a residence that evokes a sense of enchantment and comfort. #HomeDesign #CarriageHouseRenovation #LisaTharp #NewEnglandArchitecture #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #CustomInteriors #EuropeanInspired #NapaValleyInspired

This article showcases an extraordinary Scottish home that exemplifies the preservation of historical architecture while integrating contemporary design. The project involved the transformation of a 300-year-old ruined farmhouse into a sleek, modern residence. The design approach, a collaboration between Nathanael Dorent, Lily Jencks Studio, and Nous Engineering, focuses on a unique three-layered building concept. The outermost layer consists of the stabilized and preserved ruins of the 18th-century farmhouse, maintaining its historical integrity. Within this ancient shell, a black rubber 'envelope' forms the second layer, echoing the original lines of the now-absent pitched roof. The innermost layer, referred to as the 'tube,' features organic-looking interior walls constructed from white polystyrene blocks. These curved, minimalist interiors provide a striking contrast with the rugged stone exterior and the matte black roof. A key design element is the deliberate integration of the original stone walls into the home's interior in certain areas. This feature serves to highlight the building's extensive history and create a dialogue between the old and the new. The interior design emphasizes simplicity and minimalism, utilizing white and pale wood tones to create a clean and contemporary aesthetic. Large window and door openings are strategically placed to offer expansive views stretching over 80 kilometers across two valleys. Beyond its unique aesthetic, the home is designed with practicality and sustainability in mind. It is solar-powered and heavily insulated to provide protection against the harsh Scottish winters. The inclusion of wood-burning stoves further enhances comfort and warmth during colder months. The combination of historical preservation, modern architectural intervention, and functional design results in a residence that is both visually compelling and highly livable, offering a blend of ancient charm and futuristic comfort. #ArchitecturalDesign #HistoricPreservation #ModernArchitecture #SustainableLiving #InteriorDesign #ScottishHomes #FarmhouseRenovation #ContemporaryDesign

This article highlights the second annual Modern Style showhouse by Atlanta Magazine’s HOME, which features a meticulously renovated 1980s contemporary house in Buckhead. The project signals a growing appreciation for the architectural style of the 1980s within the city, opting for renovation over demolition. Originally designed in 1987 by architect Larry Farrow, a cofounder of GreenbergFarrow, the house served as his family's residence until 2003. After a prolonged period of vacancy, the current owners embarked on a mission to revitalize the property. Rodolfo Castro of Castro Design Studio served as the residential designer, aiming to preserve the original architectural integrity while updating it for contemporary living. Castro's redesign involved opening up the floor plan to create more expansive kitchen and dining areas. Additionally, he oversaw the construction of an extension that includes a new bedroom suite and laundry room, alongside the renovation of a study and master suite, which now feature larger bathrooms and abundant storage solutions. Tate Builders & Associates, led by Emily and Steve Tate, managed the construction aspects of the project. Julie Witzel of J. Witzel Interior Design led the interior design efforts, establishing a cohesive modern aesthetic throughout the house with clean lines and warm accents. Her selections for lighting, flooring, and stone were instrumental in maintaining a consistent look across the various spaces, which were decorated by 12 distinct design teams. Witzel herself designed the conjoined living and dining rooms and collaborated with Kingdom Woodworks on the kitchen, breakfast room, bathrooms, and laundry areas. The diverse contributions from different design teams brought unique character to each space. GraysonHarris Interiors + Design crafted an electric blue, high-contrast master bedroom and bath, while Mallori Hamilton from Wakefield Beasley Interiors envisioned a serene and mellow guest suite. Justin Q. Williams of Trademark Design Co. created a cozy yet impactful bedroom, and Beth Kooby Sobbott designed a bohemian-inspired retreat for a teenager. Roche Bobois contributed a vibrant sitting room featuring Kenzo Takada’s iconic Mah Jong sofa. Katja Lauterbach of Duett Design designed a study emphasizing restraint and an adjacent bathroom with a minimalist aesthetic. Additional spaces include powder rooms designed by Kerry Jemison Weinheimer of Jemison Design and Leah Alexander of Beauty Is Abundant. Kolo Collection curated an avant-garde selection of outdoor furniture for the pool deck, complementing the original angular pool. The home's closets and pantries were outfitted by The Container Store with their Avera line, offering customized storage solutions. This collaborative effort transformed the 1980s architectural gem into a modern showhouse that honors its past while embracing contemporary design and functionality. #ModernStyleShowhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BuckheadHomes #LarryFarrow #RodolfoCastro #JulieWitzel #AtlantaDesign