Builder Transforms His Staircase Into a 156-Bottle "Wine Cellar"

The increasing popularity of wine consumption, ranging from casual enjoyment to serious collecting, necessitates effective and aesthetic wine storage solutions within modern homes. While beverage refrigerators suffice for short-term needs, accumulating dozens or more bottles calls for temperature- and humidity-controlled environments to preserve quality and value. Modern design trends are moving wine storage out of traditional basements and into more visible, upstairs locations, transforming them into significant focal points within the home. Designers in the luxury market, such as Nar Bustamante of Nar Design Group, find clients frequently requesting elaborate wine storage. These often take the form of glass-enclosed, temperature-controlled rooms that serve as statement pieces. Sophisticated mechanical cooling systems now allow wine to be stored optimally outside of basements. Placing wine rooms behind glass offers homeowners an opportunity to present and celebrate their collections, creating an elevated, restaurant-like atmosphere that encourages guest engagement and conversation. For instance, Bustamante designed a shallow wine room as a backdrop to a dining area, transforming a standard wall into an immersive, rustic experience that guests appreciate. This central placement, often near stairs, kitchens, and bars, ensures high visibility from multiple living spaces, emphasizing the shift from hidden cellars to celebrated displays. Lighting is crucial, with options ranging from vertical lights to chandeliers to set the mood for entertaining, alongside general and task lighting for practical stocking. Larger wine rooms may even include seating, tables for showcasing art or wines, and cabinetry for accessories, facilitating an interactive experience. Richard Sherer of Deep River Partners addresses wine storage across a spectrum of client needs, from casual drinkers to serious collectors. His projects frequently incorporate various solutions, from simple wine racks and paneled beverage refrigerators that blend with cabinetry for short-term use, to full-scale wine rooms featuring mechanical climate control, extensive racking systems, and even tasting areas with countertops and seating. Sherer notes that a client's lifestyle dictates the complexity of the solution. He often combines short-term storage in kitchens or bars with dedicated wine rooms for larger collections. In one Craftsman-style home, he integrated an undercounter refrigerator in the foyer's hospitality bar for immediate serving and a climate-controlled wine room as an extension of the main bar. This wine room, with its glass entrance and a back wall shared with the dining room, functions as an artistic expression, showcasing wine bottle silhouettes through rippled art glass, creating a unique backdrop without overwhelming the adjacent spaces. For renovations, Sherer has converted existing closets into functional wine rooms with wet bars, artfully displaying bottles on metal racking systems against original brickwork, highlighting the experience and personal connection these spaces offer. Lynn Holender of Lynn Holender Designs observes that open-concept living has significantly impacted how entertaining spaces, including bars and wine rooms, are integrated into homes. She incorporates wine storage in almost all her custom home designs. For smaller collections, paneled beverage refrigerators are seamlessly integrated into kitchen cabinetry. For clients who entertain frequently and require more extensive storage, wine rooms are designed to showcase collections, often connected to main entertaining areas like living or dining rooms. Beyond temperature and humidity control, Holender prioritizes visual access through glass or iron doors and emphasizes traditionally styled elements such as liberal use of wood and brick. These materials evoke the authentic, moody ambiance of underground wine cellars, making the space feel warmer and more inviting. In a recent custom home, she designed a wine room adjacent to a wet bar, visible from the dining room, featuring brickwork in traditional and herringbone patterns, and white oak shelves that store over 200 bottles and accessories. The shelves' slight curve adds a visual softness and improves maneuverability. A white oak ledge within the room provides a practical surface for uncorking bottles, underscoring the functional and aesthetic considerations in modern wine storage design. #WineStorage #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #InteriorDesign #WineRooms #StorageSolutions #EntertainingSpace #KitchenAndBathDesign #CustomHomes

In August 2019, Logan and Mackenzie Hanes purchased a new home in Frankfort, Kentucky, attracted by its potential for a custom bourbon bar in the basement. The property offered twelve-foot ceilings, roughed-in plumbing, and access to an outdoor deck and firepit overlooking a lake, providing an ideal foundation for Logan's vision. With a background in construction and kitchen design, Logan embarked on a DIY project to create a unique space for his growing bourbon collection. Logan's design inspiration stemmed from the nearby Buffalo Trace Distillery, where he previously worked part-time as a tour guide. He aimed for a sleek, industrial aesthetic, incorporating rich wood paneling reminiscent of barrel staves and striking copper accents. He personally applied copper epoxy and paint to the bar top, using his fingers to create a hammered copper texture. For the back wall of the bar, wrought iron fixtures were utilized to construct open shelving, complemented by mirrors and hidden LED lighting, effectively showcasing his extensive bottle collection. This collection includes notable items such as first-batch Kentucky Owl bourbons signed by master blender Dixon Dedman and a single-barrel Blanton’s selected and signed by the cast of the bourbon documentary *Neat*. Logan's personal favorite is Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel, with Henry McKenna 10-year as his daily choice, while Mackenzie prefers New Riff Single Barrel bourbon. The couple collaborated on staining and installing cabinetry for the main bar, outfitting it with copper hardware, an icemaker, a mini-fridge, a sink, and other essential bar amenities. A distinctive central lighting fixture above the bar, designed as a family project, features single bulbs wired and hung from a distressed wooden beam. This beam, reminiscent of those found in old rickhouses, is stamped with dates significant to the Hanes family. The block-and-tackle pulley system supporting it was assembled using antique items sourced from Logan’s parents’ dealership in Western Kentucky. Logan’s approach was driven by a passion for creative design and a desire to achieve his vision without excessive spending. The primary bar project was completed by their first New Year’s in the home, a timely finish as the bar top soon became their main workstation during the transition to working from home. This unexpected development inspired Logan to conceive a second phase: a rickhouse feature along a wall adjacent to the bar. Reflecting on his time at Buffalo Trace, Logan sought to replicate the unique atmosphere of the bourbon warehouses. He acquired seven used bourbon barrels from a local artisan and developed a method to affix them to the wall. After considering various approaches, he decided to cut the barrels in half and devise a hanging cleat system for display. These barrel halves are interspersed with wooden posts and backlit with color-changing lighting, completing the immersive rickhouse experience. The Hanes family actively utilizes their custom bourbon bar, frequently hosting tastings for friends and even organizing a mixology class with a professional bartender. Logan emphasizes the social aspect of their space, quoting former Buffalo Trace tour guide Freddie Johnson: “It’s not what you’re drinking. It’s who you’re drinking with.” Their goal is to provide an inviting environment where guests can socialize, share stories, and learn about the history and science of bourbon. #HomeBar #Bourbon #DIYProject #HomeDesign #Kentucky #BuffaloTrace #InteriorDesign #CustomBuild #Rickhouse

Proper wine storage is essential for preserving the quality of wine, especially given the investment involved. Key considerations for wine storage include keeping bottles in a cool, dark, and undisturbed environment, preferably laid sideways to ensure the cork remains wet and prevents oxidation. This article explores nine innovative and stylish built-in wine storage solutions that not only protect wine but also serve as significant design elements within a home. One featured design is 'The garage silo,' a hidden subterranean wine cellar accessible via a trap-door, offering a unique and discreet storage option. These cellars, provided by companies like Spiral Cellars, range in price from approximately £15,000 to over £70,000, depending on customization options such as door design, lighting, and additional accessories. This solution transforms unused garage space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing wine vault, serving as a conversation starter and a private retreat. Another example is 'The perfect bar,' showcasing a chevron-shaped wine rack integrated above a bar area in a Sydney home. This design maximizes out-of-reach space and features bespoke grey-washed timber cabinetry with sliding glass doors, adding a sophisticated touch reminiscent of 1920s tumblers. This setup combines practicality with elegant design, enhancing the overall bar experience. 'The golden wine grotto' highlights a luxurious brass wine storage room from Amuneal, characterized by clever floating bottle rests. This design elevates wine storage to an artistic statement, making it a focal point in a contemporary home. Similarly, 'The wine window' presents an innovative concept where a wine collection is displayed through a viewing pane integrated into a workroom, treating the wine cellar as a piece of art and maximizing the visual impact of a tasting room investment. For a more rustic aesthetic, the article presents a 'Rustic rack' for kitchen walls, made from warm wood. This design adds a stylish focal point to a modern kitchen, allowing bottles to be stored horizontally to optimize space and ensure proper cork hydration. The 'Under stair vault' transforms the often-underutilized space beneath a staircase into an impressive display for a wine collection, offering an alternative to traditional under-stair storage like a toilet. 'The dark depository' showcases a luxurious wine room featuring dark polished wood and slanting shelves, evoking the ambiance of a classic gentlemen's club. This design, while sophisticated, can also be replicated on a budget, offering an elegant storage solution for any home. 'The alcove abundance' provides a solution for integrating wine storage into existing alcove spaces, replacing conventional bookshelves with a stunning wine cabinet that adds glamour to shared areas. Finally, 'The subterranean treasure trove' illustrates a flawlessly fitted, twisting wine store that utilizes underground dead space, transforming it into a magical and impressive feature. This design ensures that fetching a bottle of wine becomes an occasion in itself, leaving a lasting impression on guests. These examples collectively demonstrate how built-in wine racks can be both functional and integral to a home's interior design, enhancing both aesthetics and the wine-drinking experience. #WineStorage #BuiltInWineRacks #HomeInteriors #LuxuryDesign #HomeBar #KitchenDesign #CellarDesign #SpaceUtilization #CustomCabinetry

This article explores various ways to integrate wine storage and display options into residential homes, catering to different budgets and design aesthetics. It highlights three distinct approaches: a traditional 'Old School' wine cellar, a contemporary 'Fine Feature' wine refrigeration wall, and a practical 'On Tap' bar area, often found in kitchens. The 'Old School' approach is exemplified by a custom wine cellar designed by interior decorator Erika Bonnell for an international hotel executive. This cellar, located beneath a staircase, transformed an otherwise unused space into a functional and character-filled wine storage area. Bonnell collaborated with Cornerstone Kitchen & Bath to create open shelves, storage cupboards, and X-shaped and cubby wine racks. The design incorporates weathered gray cabinetry, reclaimed wood for the ceiling, and an old wine barrel, lending an Old World aesthetic. While not humidity or temperature-controlled, this cellar is intended for shorter-term storage and easy access for entertaining. Adjacent to the cellar, a wine tasting room was created with Restoration Hardware armchairs and a hammered brass drum table, with walls wrapped in reclaimed barn wood and merlot red accents to complement the cellar's design. For those with a more substantial budget, the article introduces the 'Fine Feature' of wine refrigeration walls. Patrick Cooke of Thomson Cooke Architects notes that these are increasingly integrated into architectural plans from the outset, serving as spatial dividers in open-plan homes or as decorative walls. A project in Mclean demonstrates this trend, where a wine refrigeration wall is a prominent feature in the dining room. These walls are ideal for displaying and storing everyday wines, providing a more social alternative to a traditional basement cellar, which serious oenophiles would still maintain for long-term aging. The custom unit by Peterson & Collins features single-bottle depth, integrated LED lighting, and a dark back wall to enhance the display. Interior designer Martha Vicas, who collaborated on the project, emphasized the need for other dramatic design elements to complement such a striking feature. In this case, textured Phillip Jeffries wall covering in charcoal-gray herringbone with a metallic sheen, a distinctive 'halo' light fixture, and angular furniture with a hand-knotted merlot plum rug contribute to the overall sophisticated ambiance. The third option, 'On Tap,' focuses on creating a functional bar area, particularly in kitchens, which often become central gathering spots. Anne Marie Hauer of Choux Designs illustrates this with her own farmhouse kitchen remodel. Despite a small 160-square-foot U-shaped kitchen, she carved out a bar area above the microwave oven, adjacent to the dining space. This setup includes a small counter, a poplar wood shelf for glasses, and an antiqued brass sconce for task lighting. The unique feature of Hauer's bar is a pair of wall-mounted vintage wine barrel taps sourced from Etsy, which her husband, a home brewer, uses for beer on tap. These taps are versatile and can also dispense root beer or wine for parties by changing the pressure gasses. The space is designed to be multi-functional, easily converting into a coffee station during the day, but primarily serving as a focal point for sharing beverages and nibbles with guests. In summary, the article presents diverse design solutions for wine enthusiasts to integrate wine storage, display, and serving areas into their homes, ranging from rustic cellars to modern refrigeration walls and practical kitchen bar setups, each offering unique benefits for both aesthetics and functionality. #WineStorage #HomeDesign #WineCellar #WineRacks #RefrigerationWalls #HomeBar #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #EntertainingSpace

This article explores three distinctive wine rooms in Sonoma County, each showcasing unique design philosophies and storage solutions for wine enthusiasts. It highlights how personal collections evolve, prompting the need for dedicated and specialized storage spaces that go beyond conventional wine refrigerators. Conrad Trinks, a real estate company owner, started his wine collection in the mid-1990s and, by 2002, found his 500-bottle refrigerator inadequate. During a renovation of his Sonoma farmhouse, he created a 1,500-bottle capacity wine room. This alcove, designed by Artistic Wine Cellars, is located off the dining room, behind French doors. The room features insulated walls, floors, and ceiling, maintaining a constant 58 degrees Fahrenheit to protect the wine from Sonoma's high summer temperatures. The racks are made of unstained redwood, with custom spaces for larger bottles. Patrick Wallen of Artistic Wine Cellars notes a growing trend towards modern designs and alternative materials like metal and Plexiglas, moving away from traditional wood. Custom cellars, like Trinks's, range from $10,000 for basic climate-controlled closets to over three times that for more elaborate designs with redwood racks and granite countertops. Trinks's French farmhouse-style home complements the wine room, which currently holds around 800 bottles, allowing for future expansion. Robert “Bud” and Linda Hausen, living in a Tuscan-style home in Sebastopol, chose a creative approach for their wine cellar. Built into a hillside basement, their cellar eschews traditional wooden racks in favor of terra cotta-colored clay sewer tiles, cut into 11-inch lengths and mortared together. These tiles not only serve as unique storage but also help keep the wine a few degrees cooler. The cellar is naturally insulated by its hillside location, maintaining a temperature of 66 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit without active climate control. Linda Hausen emphasized an antique, imperfect aesthetic for the tile placement, drawing inspiration from old European wine cellars, a vision eventually realized by their contractor despite initial resistance. The cellar, which holds 750 bottles, incorporates reclaimed wood tables and wrought-iron gates, with inventory managed by CellarTracker software. The Hausens' collection grew significantly after they moved to Sebastopol in 2005. Robert and Madi Mount of Santa Rosa possess a 4,000-bottle capacity cellar, housing 2,500 wines. Installed in 2006 by Wallen of Artistic Wine Cellars, this cellar is part of their Mediterranean-style home on a 10-acre hillside property. The entrance is situated outside the main house, near the kitchen deck, featuring an arched wooden door framed by multicolored stone. The cellar comprises a tasting area kept at a comfortable 68 degrees, separated by glass doors from the main storage area, which is maintained at an ideal 55 degrees. It also includes humidity control and non-UV lighting to preserve the wine. Robert Mount utilizes Vinfolio software to track his collection, providing details on bottle location, market value, and optimal drinking times. The article also provides practical advice for those on a tighter budget, noting that cooling units are often the most expensive component of a wine storage area. For simpler needs, if a room is naturally cool, active cooling and extensive wall preparation might be unnecessary. Alternatives include wine refrigerators, self-contained wine cabinets for starter collections, or freestanding racks placed in the coolest, darkest, and least disturbed areas of a home to protect wine from heat, light, and motion. #WineCellar #HomeDesign #WineStorage #SonomaCounty #CustomWineRooms #InteriorDesign #WineCollection #ArchitecturalFeatures #LuxuryHomes

This lookbook from Dezeen showcases ten inventive wine storage solutions integrated into contemporary home interiors, catering to various home sizes and design preferences. For those who prefer to display their wine collections rather than hide them, these examples highlight how creative shelving, built-in furniture, and thoughtful design can transform wine storage into a focal point. The article notes that wine storage can be implemented in homes of any size, from simple wine racks in kitchen islands to elaborate cellars. The featured designs include a wine room in Maison du Parc by La Shed Architecture in Montreal, where frosted glass walls and stark lighting create a partially obscured yet visible grid of bottles, visible from both the staircase and a grand basement bathroom. Another example, the AML Apartment by David Ito Arquitetura in São Paulo, features a vibrant blue, floor-to-ceiling wine rack that holds 108 bottles and serves as a prominent design element visible from the living and dining areas. In London's Gallery House by Neil Dusheiko, wine bottles are subtly integrated into a kitchen island, fitting into circular cubby holes that also accommodate two bottles each, part of a larger display of cherished objects. Casa em Cotia by Una Arquitetos in São Paulo places wine storage within a full-height, glass-fronted pantry in the kitchen, making it easily accessible from the adjacent dining room. Design Theory's City Beach Residence in Perth uses hexagonal terracotta modules to create storage for 50 bottles within a wall niche, leveraging the material's thermal properties to maintain a stable temperature. The Raft Loft in New York by Dash Marshall, a conversion of two apartments, includes a wine fridge and a wall-mounted wine rack in a kitchenette, offering ample storage in addition to the main kitchen. For serious collectors, the Ski Slope Residence by LaRue Architects and Britt Design Group in Austin, Texas, owned by vineyard proprietors, features a prominent wine room near the main entrance, enclosed by a floor-to-ceiling glass door, serving as a dramatic backdrop to a grand piano. Charred House in London by Rider Stirland Architects incorporates wine storage into a bespoke Plykea kitchen, with simple supports holding 30 bottles within shelving. Salva46 by Miel Arquitectos and Studio P10 in Barcelona demonstrates a compact solution where a wood-framed wine rack alongside drawers creates a soft divider between the entrance and kitchen. Finally, the Soho Loft by Julian King in New York offers a simple yet elegant solution by integrating a wooden wine rack into the bottom shelf of a large living room bookcase, allowing wine to coexist with literature. This collection of designs illustrates a range of approaches to wine storage, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic integration within diverse home environments. The lookbook aims to provide visual inspiration, building on previous editions showcasing serene bedrooms and wood-paneled dining rooms, reinforcing the idea that practical home elements can also be key design features. #WineStorage #HomeInteriors #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #BuiltInFurniture #KitchenDesign #WineCellar #HomeOrganization #ArchitecturalFeatures

The article presents various design ideas and tips for creating a dedicated wine storage and tasting area within a home, drawing inspiration from a wine nook featured in Sunset magazine. It emphasizes that while a wine room might seem like a luxury, it can become an essential space for wine enthusiasts. The design elements discussed cover lighting, wall finishes, furniture, and wet bar installations, all contributing to a cohesive and functional wine tasting environment. For lighting, the article highlights the use of industrial-style pendant lights from Rejuvenation, specifically the Wiley pendants. These fixtures incorporate carbon-filament bulbs and FSC-certified oak “handles,” providing a "steampunk" aesthetic that adds character to the space. The choice of such lighting suggests a blend of modern design with a nod to vintage industrial elements, enhancing the overall ambiance of the wine area. The wall design features Eldorado Stone’s Cut Coarse stone veneer, installed dry-stacked to mimic limestone. This textured stone wall is used to create a striking contrast with the smoother finishes of the bar area. The selection of this material adds a natural and rustic touch, grounding the space while providing visual interest and a sophisticated backdrop for wine storage and tasting activities. Furniture choices contribute to the neo-retro whimsy and warmth of the tasting area. CB2’s zinc-plated iron-wire Reed chairs and a white-oak Teepee dining table are mentioned. These pieces are chosen for their modern yet slightly nostalgic design, offering comfortable and stylish seating for wine tasting sessions and social gatherings within the dedicated space. The wet bar is designed with practicality and aesthetics in mind. It features Cabernet-colored concrete, which is made with 95 percent recycled content. This material is chosen not only for its appealing color but also for its ability to disguise stains, ensuring the bar remains pristine. The wet bar also includes an integral sink and a Kohler Torq faucet, completing a functional setup for preparing and serving wine. This focus on durable and stain-resistant materials underscores the practical considerations for a high-use area. Finally, the article details the custom cabinetry for wine storage. Made from American black walnut, the cabinetry is designed to hold books, carafes, glasses, and approximately 175 bottles of wine. The storage solution also integrates two GE Monogram wine fridges, ensuring optimal temperature and humidity control for wine preservation. This comprehensive storage approach addresses both display and functional requirements for a serious wine collector, allowing for an organized and accessible collection. #WineStorage #WineTasting #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #CustomCabinetry #IndustrialLighting #StoneVeneer #ModernFurniture #WetBar #WineCellar

The article explores the considerations for homeowners debating whether to install a wine cellar, focusing on its potential impact on home value and personal enjoyment. Manny Varas, founder of MV Group USA, exemplifies a serious wine collector who built a custom, contemporary wine cellar to house his 900-bottle collection, prioritizing a 'less is more' aesthetic with stone walls and metal display racks over traditional wood. This personal investment highlights the dedication some enthusiasts have to their wine, influencing their home design choices. The discussion differentiates between two primary types of wine cellars: passive and active. Passive wine cellars are non-refrigerated, typically smaller, and used by casual enthusiasts. They are often placed in cool, dark areas like basements and can start around $5,000. Audrey Frances Doty of Audrey Frances Design notes that these are more for aesthetics and less for serious aging, as they lack precise climate control. In contrast, active wine cellars are climate-controlled, offering specific temperature and humidity regulation essential for serious collectors. These require specialized construction, including mold-resistant blue board and spray foam insulation, and can be significantly more expensive, with a 300-square-foot cellar starting around $60,000. Some active cellars incorporate wine fridges to accommodate different wine types requiring varied temperatures. The article then delves into whether wine cellars add resale value to a home. Real estate agent Harvin Greene points out that in homes above $5 million, a luxury wine cellar can serve as a unique selling point, or a 'hook,' and is almost an expected feature. However, these cellars are increasingly used to store other spirits like bourbons, tequilas, and cigars, expanding their appeal beyond just wine. For homes under $2 million, wine cellars generally do not significantly boost appraised value due to space constraints and a lower likelihood of extensive wine collections. In these cases, a more modest, thoughtfully integrated wine feature, such as a wine fridge, is often more appreciated than a full cellar. For wine enthusiasts who invest in collections, especially those buying in bulk and tracking maturation, a wine cellar makes considerable sense. Varas explains that buying wine young and allowing it to mature in proper conditions can be a profitable investment strategy, with a bottle purchased at $200 potentially being worth $1,500 once fully aged. Apps like InVintory assist collectors in tracking their bottles' maturity. The article also presents a more practical approach, with wine strategist Stevie Stacionis building a functional, yet aesthetically basic, cellar in her garage for about $2,200. Her priority was protecting the wine's integrity from heat, light, and oxygen, maintaining a cool 57 degrees with controlled humidity, rather than creating a luxurious display. Ultimately, a full wine cellar is not a universal necessity. For those not collecting large volumes or seeking a display piece, alternatives like wine coolers offer an intermediate solution. Stacionis recommends wine coolers, particularly EuroCave models, for their ability to mimic cellar conditions without occupying significant space. She advises that if a home stays below 70 degrees and wine is consumed within a few months, refrigeration might suffice. However, for longer-term storage exceeding a year, a wine fridge is crucial for maintaining proper temperature. The article concludes that whether through a lavish cellar or a simple cooler, proper wine storage is a luxury in itself, with customizable options to suit various needs and budgets. #WineCellar #HomeValue #RealEstate #HomeImprovement #LuxuryHomes #WineStorage #HomeDesign #FinancialPlanning #WineCollecting

This article explores various design approaches for integrating wine storage into a home, ranging from dedicated cellars to subtle kitchen elements, catering to different space availabilities and aesthetic preferences. It emphasizes that a well-designed wine storage solution can enhance the home's decor and functionality. The article begins by showcasing a wine wall concept, where an entire dining room wall is transformed into a functional and visually striking wine display, making wine accessible for entertaining. Another approach involves using natural stone for cellar walls, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a French chateau, blending traditional and modern aesthetics. For those seeking a more intimate setting, the guide suggests dark-themed wine areas with metallic wallpaper, black marble, and stained wood, suitable for a cozy home bar. Integrating wine storage seamlessly into existing spaces is also highlighted. One idea involves incorporating a wine system with gold accents into a colorful kitchen, making it a design feature rather than a hidden appliance. For smaller spaces, a wine cooler can be built directly into a kitchen island, offering a stylish and climate-controlled storage solution without requiring a separate room. The article also touches on creating a specific mood, such as a “sexy, smokey vibe” in a red wine cellar with grasscloth wallpaper and cigar-friendly elements. Practical solutions for limited spaces include utilizing wall units, ensuring bottles are stored horizontally to maintain cork integrity. A minimalist design features a matte black backdrop and a grid-like system for an organized and sleek display. When integrating wine cellars into living areas, the article advises on using appropriate UV-filtering glass and low-voltage LED lighting to protect wine from premature aging. Appliances can also be disguised to blend with the decor, as demonstrated by a mini wine fridge covered in an ikat print. The article further suggests maximizing vertical space by building upward, akin to a sommelier’s library, when floor space is scarce. Playful design elements, such as leopard print flooring and painted brick, can be incorporated to create a fun, retro-inspired ambiance in a home bar. For those looking to set a specific mood for tastings, painting an adjacent butler's pantry or entertaining space in a wine-red hue with smokey mirrored tiles can elevate the experience. Finally, for larger wine cellars intended for entertaining, it is recommended to separate the climate-controlled wine storage area from a comfortable lounge space for guests, as exemplified by a design created for a family that frequently hosts. #WineCellarDesign #HomeBarIdeas #WineStorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #SpaceSavingDesign #LuxuryHome

The article explores various premium wine storage solutions, emphasizing that proper storage enhances wine flavor and protects its value. Jamie Sach, Global Penfolds Ambassador, highlights the benefits of cellaring, noting that red wines soften and become more complex, while white wines develop a golden appearance and aromatic complexity. He also views his wine collection as a "drinking superannuation fund," illustrating the potential for wine to appreciate in value and be sold during financial difficulties. Wine is susceptible to fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and light, which can affect its maturation and freshness. For long-term storage, a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, such as a wine fridge or cellar, is essential. Not all wines are suitable for cellaring; most are meant for early consumption. Wines chosen for long-term cellaring generally possess good structure and balance. Full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz, and high-quality white wines such as Riesling and premium Chardonnay, are good candidates for aging. Affordable wines with body and structure, like certain Rieslings or Shiraz Cabernet blends, can also be cellared for fewer than 10 years, with some Penfolds Koonunga Hill wines reportedly lasting over 20 years. The optimal storage temperature for most wines is between 12ºC and 14ºC, with reds preferring closer to 14ºC and whites as low as 8ºC. For corked bottles, maintaining 50% to 60% humidity is crucial to prevent the cork from drying out or developing mold. Vibrations and direct sunlight are detrimental; vibrations can agitate sediments, leading to grittiness, while sunlight can cause premature aging and introduce unpleasant flavors. Traditionally, wine bottles are stored on their side to keep the cork moist and prevent drying, which could compromise the seal. However, large, aged red wines may benefit from being stood upright for a few days before consumption to allow sediment to settle. While temporary upright storage is acceptable, long-term storage should always be horizontal. Jamie Sach advises storing bottles on their side with labels facing up to facilitate decanting by allowing sediment to collect below the label. For wines intended for near-term consumption (6 months to a year), room temperature is acceptable, provided it's a stable, cool environment away from direct sunlight and strong odors. Regular temperature fluctuations, as seen in living rooms with active air conditioning, can negatively impact wine by causing expansion and contraction within the bottle, stressing the cork, and accelerating maturation. Therefore, investing in a wine fridge or utilizing a cool, unused cupboard is recommended for special bottles to ensure proper aging. The article also showcases several premium wine storage solutions, including an integrated Sub-Zero Wine Storage Cabinet that accommodates up to 86 bottles in two independently controlled zones, featuring UV-resistant glass and additional refrigeration space. Another example is a butler’s pantry for wine, utilizing open shelving to display bottles horizontally, particularly beneficial for corked wines, within a minimalist beach house design. A Sub-Zero Wine Preservation Unit is highlighted for its ability to maintain constant, moderated humidity, prevent oxidation, and serve as a decorative element with LED lighting and systematic full-extension racks. A refrigerated wine room with ceiling-to-floor glass doors transforms a wine collection into a visual spectacle within a luxurious Gold Coast home. Practical solutions like a DIY wine rack, which functions as a compact display unit, and an under-stair wine rack, which optimizes space and acts as a feature wall, are also presented, emphasizing protection from heat and light for optimal wine preservation. #WineStorage #WineCellaring #WineFridges #HomeBar #LuxuryHomes #InteriorDesign #WineCollection #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign

The stairway serves as a fundamental connector within a building, enabling movement between floors. Beyond this basic function, a well-designed stairway can significantly unify and enhance the entire aesthetic of a space, making a dramatic impression that few other interior architectural features can achieve. In contrast to the ornate, heavily carved newel posts characteristic of Victorian staircases, modern design philosophy, as exemplified by companies like Viewrail, centers on the treads themselves as the primary eye-catching element. Viewrail, founded in 2011 with a focus on modern stair design, developed its FLIGHT floating stairway in 2017. This design emphasizes wooden treads, complemented by railings made of glass, cables, or metal rods. The core principle behind this approach is to minimize the visibility of structural components, allowing the natural grain patterns and colors of the wood treads to become the focal point. This creates a sense of openness and allows light to filter through, making rooms appear larger and contributing to a more expansive visual environment. Floating stairways, particularly those with glass railings, are highly valued for their transparency, which allows them to seemingly disappear and integrate seamlessly into the surrounding architecture. This design choice transforms the stairway from a mere functional element into a striking focal point. Brian Ellison, a multidisciplinary designer, attests to the transformative power of Viewrail's stairs, noting their ability to unify spaces and impart a modern feel. He views the floating stairway as an unexpected and memorable feature that leaves a lasting impact on observers. Traditionally, staircases relied on lumber stringers built into the walls for support. Viewrail's modern floating stairways, however, often utilize a metal stringer located beneath the stairs, contributing to their sleek, minimalist appearance. Furthermore, Viewrail's pre-fabricated components, manufactured in Goshen, Indiana, offer a more affordable alternative to custom-built floating stairways. This accessibility allows designers to incorporate sophisticated, modern designs into projects that might otherwise be constrained by budget, making high-end aesthetics attainable for a wider range of projects. Viewrail prides itself on creating a streamlined process for designing, manufacturing, and delivering staircases, contributing to their affordability. The cost of a Viewrail staircase is comparable to that of a new kitchen countertop or half the expense of a mid-range bathroom remodel. Whether undertaking a renovation or new construction, careful consideration should be given to the stairway's design from the outset. Rather than being an afterthought, the stairway should be intentionally planned to accentuate the room and foster connectivity between different areas, thereby literally bringing spaces together. #ModernStairwayDesign #FloatingStairs #GlassRailing #InteriorArchitecture #HomeRenovation #ModernHome #Viewrail #AffordableDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures

Genie Norris, a design consultant and owner of Color Genie, undertook a renovation project for her Austin home, focusing on unique vintage textile-inspired designs for each room. The final challenge was the stairwell, which needed to integrate with the home's diverse color palette, featuring 60 different paint colors and nine door shades. Norris sought a print that would tie these elements together, eventually discovering a Bauhaus-inspired floor covering made of vinyl. This discovery was pivotal, as she initially considered a custom painted mural for the stairwell, which would have been significantly more expensive, costing thousands of dollars for two stories. The vinyl, based on a collage, caught her eye during an extensive online search for a suitable design. She contacted the business owner, who agreed to enlarge the design to fit the dimensions of her stair risers. This solution proved to be a cost-effective and efficient alternative to a custom mural. Norris completed the installation herself over a weekend using a utility knife and a credit card to smooth out bubbles, costing only a few hundred dollars compared to the prohibitive expense of a professional muralist. The final phase of the stairwell project involved installing balusters. Norris wanted to maximize light and showcase a cherished family portrait by Elizabeth Chapin while discreetly concealing all bolts and fasteners. This complex task was managed by CG&S Design Build, who conceptualized and constructed a floor-to-ceiling 'screen' that created a seamless, clean-lined appearance across all levels. This required the coordinated effort of various subcontractors, including a welder, a Sheetrock expert, and flooring specialists. For the finishing touch, each pole of the baluster system was painted with Sherwin-Williams’s now-archived Gypsy Red. Norris considers red her neutral, using it to unify the different spaces within her home. She noted that high-gloss finishes, especially in this vibrant red, are challenging to apply perfectly. The painters meticulously applied eight coats to achieve the desired flawless finish, demonstrating the commitment to detail in the project. The result transformed the stairwell into a cohesive and visually stimulating element within the colorful and uniquely designed home. #HomeRenovation #StairwellDesign #BauhausInspired #VinylFlooring #DIYDesign #ColorTheory #InteriorDesign #CostEffectiveDecor #CustomSolutions

This lookbook explores eight distinct interiors where ladders serve as both practical and aesthetic elements, particularly in kitchens and living rooms. Ladders are highlighted as a space-efficient alternative to traditional staircases, offering flexibility and a playful touch to modern interior design. They can be utilized to access elevated storage or mezzanine levels, or simply as sculptural accessories, adding character and visual interest to a space. One example is the Warren Street Townhouse in Brooklyn, USA, designed by Studio Vural. Its Japanese-inspired kitchen features a wooden ladder mounted flush against a whitewashed brick wall, reflecting the owners' request to incorporate elements reminiscent of Kyoto. This ladder aids in accessing higher cabinetry while seamlessly blending into the serene design. In the Collectors Home in the Netherlands by DAB Studio, an antique fruit ladder, dating back to 1890, is transformed into a vibrant focal point. Positioned in a bay window niche, the ladder was painted green to complement the surrounding stained-glass panes, showcasing how historical objects can be revitalized to suit contemporary interiors. The Kensal Rise house in the UK, renovated by The Mint List, an Edwardian end-of-terrace property, incorporates mid-century modern design. Here, a sliding ladder in the kitchen provides convenient access to high-up cupboards, demonstrating a practical and integrated design solution for kitchens with vertical storage. Isabelle Heilmanne's Timbaud apartment in France, a Parisian space located in a former textile workshop, features a wooden ladder propped against a mezzanine level. The ladder's materiality harmonizes with an old wooden dining table and chairs, and the addition of a swing further enhances the playful, informal atmosphere of the living room. The Lake House in Slovakia, by JRKVC, exemplifies efficient use of space in a 65-square-meter footprint. Mezzanine areas above enclosed cabin rooms, which house bedrooms and a bathroom, are accessed by light wooden ladders. These ladders are integral to the design, providing functional access while contributing to the compact and clever layout. Crystal Sinclair Designs' Dumbo Loft in New York's Dumbo neighborhood includes a mezzanine library and seating area. A metal-and-wooden ladder accesses this elevated space through an arch-shaped cut-out in the floor, demonstrating a clever space-saving technique that also adds an architectural feature. In Punta Chilen, a Chilean beach house by Guillermo Acuña Arquitectos Asociados, the kitchen features two rows of open shelving and is accessed by a pair of ladders on castor wheels. Made from pine timber, these mobile ladders facilitate access to high shelves, and their natural material contributes to the warm interior, contrasting with the sea views. Finally, Casa Texcal in Mexico, by HGR Arquitectos, showcases a double-height bookcase with a central platform in its living space. A matching ladder with black metal handrails provides safe access to the platform and the upper shelves, making the bookcase a prominent and functional architectural element. These diverse examples illustrate the versatility of ladders in enhancing both the utility and design of residential interiors. #Ladders #InteriorDesign #Kitchens #LivingRooms #Mezzanines #SpaceSaving #HomeDecor #ResidentialInteriors #ArchitecturalFeatures

This article details the renovation of a 19th-century carriage house in Brooklyn Heights by Ingui Architecture, transforming it into a modern, energy-efficient home adhering to Passive House principles. The primary objective of the renovation was to create a comfortable living space while maximizing natural light and incorporating sustainable design. The architects and homeowners embarked on a significant overhaul that included preserving some elements of the original garage structure while redesigning the layout to include a backyard, living space, kitchen, and dining area on the ground floor. A major structural change involved excavating to create a cellar housing a gym, recreational space, and home office. The second floor was reconfigured to accommodate three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Additionally, a penthouse featuring a glass-enclosed home office and a substantial roof deck was added, ensuring it remained invisible from the street to comply with Landmarks requirements. Light-stained rift and quartered oak floors were installed throughout the residence, contributing to a cohesive aesthetic. A central and distinctive feature of the renovation is a sculptural custom staircase, meticulously designed using 3D software, fabricated in Pennsylvania, and assembled on-site. This staircase serves as a focal point, connecting the various levels and allowing natural light to penetrate deeply into the core of the house. The nursery, for instance, incorporates a glass wall to enhance light, with a curtain for privacy and darkening when needed. The renovation prioritized Passive House standards, leading to a highly sealed and insulated structure that minimizes energy consumption. The house benefits from continuous filtered fresh air and windows designed to significantly reduce external noise and dust. While the house requires minimal heating due to its efficient design, an air conditioning system powered by a Mitsubishi heat-pump handles cooling needs, with shading and multiple layers of roof insulation reducing the cooling load by approximately 50 percent. Throughout the project, careful attention was paid to restoring the harmonious proportions of window and door openings, which had been compromised by previous haphazard renovations. Original bricks from interior walls were repurposed to seamlessly match the exterior brickwork. The interior design, managed by BIA Interiors (Ingui Architecture's in-house team), incorporates custom cabinetry, a Lacanche range, and zellige tile in the kitchen, alongside a custom-sculpted stove hood. The dining area features an upholstered banquette and lighting from Danish company Le Klint. The living room retains original, unfinished structural beams, which were protected throughout construction. Furnishings in the main living areas blend pieces from accessible sources like Montauk Sofa, Pottery Barn, and Anthropologie with items from designers such as Space Copenhagen for a lounge chair and Roll & Hill and Workstead for lighting fixtures. The bedrooms are furnished with items from CB2 and Design Within Reach. The design also includes a thoughtful sacrifice of some interior space for an outdoor patio and garden area, further enhancing the living experience. The project exemplifies a blend of historical preservation, modern design, and advanced energy efficiency. #CarriageHouse #BrooklynHeights #PassiveHouse #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #CustomStaircase #InteriorDesign #EnergyEfficiency #HistoricPreservation

This article details a method for building custom-sized frame-and-panel doors on-site, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing pre-made custom doors. The process begins with the initial decision-making phase, where the author, a carpenter, evaluates whether to buy or build custom doors based on specific project needs, such as size, style, and finish (paint or stain grade). For a recent project requiring large sliding doors to separate two home office/guest bedrooms, building on-site proved to be more economical, even when accounting for labor. The doors were designed to complement existing paint-grade frame-and-panel doors in the house. The material selection for these doors involved using 6/4 (1-1/2-inch thick) poplar for the stiles and rails and 1/2-inch plywood with two good faces for the panels. The author outlines a meticulous milling process for the lumber. Upon delivery, the poplar boards are sorted to identify the straightest and flattest pieces for the full-height outermost stiles, while other boards are designated for intermediate stiles and rails. Special attention is paid to achieving consistent thickness for all parts, which is crucial for accurate joinery. Boards are rough-cut longer to accommodate planer snipe, and a two-stage planing process ensures uniformity. Ripping boards to their precise width on a tablesaw, often utilizing a sled for boards lacking a straight edge, and then planing them to their final dimension, completes the initial material preparation. Finally, all parts are cut to their exact lengths using a miter saw with a stop for consistency. The next stage involves preparing the joinery for the door assembly. The door parts are temporarily laid out and clamped together to mark and label each joint, ensuring correct reassembly. During this mock-up, measurements for the plywood panels are taken, adding 3/4 inch to both width and height to accommodate for the grooves. The article emphasizes creating clean and consistent grooves for the door panels using a slot-cutting router bit. To accommodate the 1/2-inch thick plywood, two passes are made from each face of the board, and a third pass with a different cutter might be necessary to clear the remaining material in the center. The router cuts are made freehand to follow any slight variations in the wood, ensuring a perfectly centered groove. To create robust joints, a double row of Domino tenons is used, with the mortises cut slightly wider than the tenons to allow for some flexibility during the glue-up. The final phase is the glue-up and assembly. The author provides three key rules for this critical step: enlisting help, ensuring a flat working surface to prevent warping, and pre-sanding all panels before assembly. The doors are initially assembled and glued on a table for convenience, then moved to a dead-flat floor for final clamping. Checking for squareness is typically done by measuring diagonals, but precise rail cuts can also ensure accuracy. Excess glue squeeze-out is promptly wiped away, and the doors are left clamped for at least half a day or overnight. Post-curing, joints are flattened using a random-orbit sander, or a belt sander for more significant material removal, followed by a final pass with 100-grit paper. The custom-built doors provide both aesthetic appeal and practical flexibility, proving this on-site construction method to be a valuable solution for custom door requirements, including both sliding and swinging door applications. #CustomDoors #Woodworking #DIYHomeImprovement #SlidingDoors #FrameAndPanel #CarpentryTechniques #OnSiteConstruction #DoorBuilding #FineHomebuilding