From Dirty Garage to a Modern, Flexible ADU for Guests + Work

Wendy Davey of Cranberry Design transformed a disused garage in Melbourne into a chic, European-inspired guest retreat, embodying a French pied-à-terre aesthetic. The project originated from the clients' desire for a dedicated guest quarters or teenage retreat, utilizing the unfinished space above their existing garage. The framework, built during previous main home renovations, was initially used for storage before being reimagined as an elegant studio apartment. The design process commenced with an extensive consultation where Wendy and her clients drew inspiration from various French apartments, adapting their favorite elements to align with Australian trends and lifestyle. The core requirements for the retreat were clear: it needed to be entirely separate from the main house, low-maintenance, and suitable for a 'lock and leave' lifestyle, with sufficient storage for permanent residency if needed. Achieving a cohesive design in the one-bedroom studio necessitated a consistent approach, starting with the flooring. Pale engineered timber floorboards were selected for their natural appearance and versatility across different environments. The color palette was a crucial decision, ultimately integrating both red and navy accent colors after initial deliberations. A feature wall in 'Whale Watching' by Porter's Paints, combined with the 'Sandwashed' floorboards and custom brass nosing, created a welcoming entry. Central to the design was the goal of creating a warm and inviting guest suite. This was accomplished through the careful selection of lovely linens, diverse textures, and a muted color scheme. Custom whitewashed joinery, extending along the entire studio, was designed to blend seamlessly into the background while efficiently concealing necessary appliances and providing ample space-saving solutions. This integrated approach was vital for maintaining an uncluttered and spacious feel in a compact area. A significant challenge involved the lack of natural light from one side of the studio due to its proximity to the main house. This was resolved through the strategic installation of skylights, which illuminated darker areas like the bathroom and kitchen, creating an airy atmosphere and subtly delineating different zones within the open-plan layout. The bathroom, despite its small footprint, was designed to feel expansive and bright, utilizing a mirrored wall and additional skylights to maximize light and space. Functional features like recessed shelving, frameless shower screens, and large mirrors further contributed to the bathroom's functionality and aesthetic. Despite an extended construction period, the collaboration between Wendy Davey and her clients resulted in a well-resolved design where functionality perfectly harmonizes with aesthetic appeal. The spaces are utilized precisely as envisioned, highlighting a successful transformation of a neglected area into a luxurious and practical guest haven. #GarageConversion #GuestRetreat #EuropeanDesign #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorRenovation #SpaceSavingSolutions #NaturalLight #CustomJoinery #MelbourneHomes

A remarkable single-family home in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, originally a garage, is currently listed for just over $1.9 million. This unique residence at 222 Madison Street combines industrial aesthetics with functional living spaces, spanning 3,000 square feet. The exterior maintains a modest garage appearance, cleverly concealing the expansive and stylish interior. The home's design embraces an industrial chic, characterized by cured cement floors, exposed white-washed brick walls, and soaring ceilings punctuated by skylights that flood the space with natural light. This architectural approach creates an open and airy atmosphere throughout the dwelling. The main floor features a spacious living room that provides direct views into a serene atrium, a central element designed to enhance the home's tranquil ambiance. Above this living area, a dedicated reading nook is integrated with a Dutch-designed music storage system, offering both comfort and practicality. The open-plan design seamlessly connects the living room to a large dining area, accommodating substantial furniture arrangements and fostering a sense of continuous flow. Adjacent to the dining area is a chef’s kitchen, equipped with stainless steel counters and cabinetry, a professional 36-inch range and oven, and a prominent Carrara marble island. A generous pantry offers ample storage, catering to the needs of a gourmet kitchen. This level is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, maximizing space and utility. The second level of the home houses the master bedroom suite. This private retreat is large enough to comfortably fit a king-sized bed and includes a walk-in closet for extensive storage. A private terrace extends from the master bedroom, providing an exclusive outdoor space for relaxation. The master bathroom is appointed with a separate soaking tub and a walk-in shower, complemented by two distinctively hand-painted Talavera sinks, adding a touch of artistic detail. Across from the master bedroom on the second level, a second large loft area offers significant versatility. While currently configured as a playroom, its substantial size allows for various creative uses, adaptable to the owner's needs or preferences. This flexibility underscores the home's capacity to evolve with its inhabitants. The outdoor terrace, designed to function as a garden, plays a crucial role in bringing additional light into the main living room through its large windows, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the home is engineered for energy efficiency, incorporating modern conveniences such as on-demand hot water, heated floors, and central air conditioning. An integrated sound system allows for individual control in each space, enhancing comfort and personalization. A private garage provides practical city living, addressing parking challenges. The property is listed by Wendy Stephenson and David Cobell for Compass, showcasing a sophisticated blend of industrial design, modern amenities, and practical living solutions within a transformed urban space. #BedStuy #GarageConversion #IndustrialGlamour #ZenAtrium #SingleFamilyHome #BrooklynRealEstate #ModernDesign #EnergyEfficientHome #LuxuryLiving

Architect Irving Gonzales transformed an underutilized garage in San Leandro, California, into a luminous, net-zero Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) for his insurance agent-turned-client, Steven Glaser. Glaser, residing in his 2,100-square-foot main home, sought to downsize eventually and create a dedicated home office space. The design process focused on converting the existing garage structure into a sustainable and adaptable living area. Gonzales suggested replacing the garage's original gable roof with a shed roof, which became a crucial element for achieving net-zero status. The shed roof was oriented to slope south from its maximum allowable height of 16 feet, facilitating the installation of photovoltaic panels that covered the entire roof, including a five-foot overhang on the west side to provide shade from the late-day sun. The project preserved the garage's original 386-square-foot footprint but reimagined the interior to include a bedroom with a dual bathroom, a kitchen designed for aging-in-place, a living/dining area, and a newly created loft space made possible by the shed roof. A key priority for Glaser was to maximize natural light and ensure excellent acoustics, aiming for a joyful, fun, and restful environment. To achieve optimal light in the compact ADU, Gonzales opted for Andersen windows and doors. These were chosen for their clean and flexible design options, energy efficiency, ease of installation, and moderate pricing, aligning with the desired aesthetic. The 508-square-foot ADU integrated several methods and materials to attain its net-zero energy goal. The design team carefully considered the home’s massing, form, orientation, window placement, and HVAC system, alongside the specific properties of concrete and wood products. The HVAC system notably features an LG Art Cool Gallery unit, which allows original artwork to be displayed on its front. The interior material palette is kept simple and cohesive with birch veneer plywood and a sealed concrete floor. Windows were strategically placed at both higher and lower elevations to promote natural cross-ventilation, and translucently glazed interior pocket doors were incorporated to allow light to penetrate deeply throughout the space. The bathroom, adjacent to the kitchen, is equipped with a curved corner shower, an accessible lavatory, and a stacked washer-dryer unit, reflecting a thoughtful approach to functionality and space utilization. Glaser, a financial advisor, appreciated the investment in a sustainable future, aiming to leave a positive environmental impact. Upon completion, Glaser now divides his time between the main residence and the new ADU, with plans to fully transition into the ADU for his long-term living. He expresses satisfaction with the bright and inviting atmosphere, highlighting the excellent light and acoustics. The project was recognized as a standout in the 2024 Bright Ideas Awards, presented by Andersen Windows & Doors, for its excellence in fenestration and daylighting. #ADU #GarageConversion #NetZeroHome #SustainableDesign #BayAreaArchitecture #AndersenWindows #SmallSpaceDesign #ModernHome

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

Homeowners globally are repurposing their garages from mere car storage units into innovative and stylish extensions of their living spaces. This trend is driven by a desire for additional functional rooms, ranging from luxurious and practical additions like country kitchens and elegant wine cellars to recreational areas such as games rooms. The transformations showcased demonstrate significant creativity and design foresight, highlighting how these often-underutilized spaces can be completely reimagined to enhance a home's value and livability. Each conversion reflects a unique vision, adapting the garage's existing structure into something entirely new and often unrecognizable from its original purpose. One prominent example features a Yorkshire-based homeowner who converted their garage into a chic country kitchen, complete with bifolding doors that open onto a patio, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. This particular project emphasizes modern design elements and practicality, creating a vibrant space for cooking and entertaining. Another impressive conversion, located in Essex, transformed a garage into a sleek games room and bar, catering to leisure and entertainment needs. This space is equipped with features like a pool table, providing a dedicated area for social gatherings and relaxation within the home. In Perth, Australia, a dingy garage underwent a radical makeover to become a magnificent wine cellar. This rustic transformation includes stone cladding and an authentic barrel table, creating an ambiance perfect for wine enthusiasts. The conversion maximizes storage and display for wine collections while offering a unique gathering spot. Further examples include a Hampshire resident who opted to create an additional living room, providing more common space for the household. An Instagram user from Makerfield, England, converted their garage into a cozy bedroom, addressing the need for extra accommodation with thoughtful design. Architectural firms are also contributing to this trend, as seen in Buckinghamshire where a garage was transformed into a contemporary living space and kitchen, distinguished by its modern aesthetics and a hanging chair. For those seeking functional workspaces, a Maryland garage was converted into an artist's studio and gallery, providing a dedicated and inspiring environment for creative endeavors. Health and wellness enthusiasts are also embracing garage conversions, with a UK-based Instagram user showcasing an upmarket home gym space, allowing for convenient at-home workouts. Space optimization is a key theme, exemplified by a California-based homeowner who demonstrated how a small garage could be efficiently converted into a stunning, multi-functional space through clever design. Another wine-themed conversion by a US-based designer transformed a garage into a glamorous wine cellar and storage room, combining utility with sophisticated design. The trend also extends to professional applications, such as a beautician in Suffolk who converted her small garage into a treatment room, offering a dedicated business space at home. Finally, a Pennsylvania-based couple created a home office described as a 'haven' with bifolding doors, promoting productivity and connection to the outdoors. These diverse examples underscore the versatility and potential of garage conversions to meet a wide array of lifestyle and functional needs. #GarageConversion #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LivingSpaceExpansion #HomeImprovement #CreativeHomeSolutions #SpaceTransformation #LuxuryHomeFeatures #FunctionalDesign

This article explores the enduring appeal of loft living, showcasing 12 distinct examples of modern lofts from the Dwell Magazine archives. Lofts are characterized by their industrial flavor, open floor plans, and their ability to blend work and home life seamlessly, appealing to a creative, city-dwelling demographic. The featured lofts demonstrate a wide range of transformations, from historical factory buildings and warehouses to more compact, unconventional spaces, each maintaining a distinctive industrial aesthetic while serving as modern residences or live/work environments. The article begins by highlighting a 17th-century manufacturing plant in Paris, reimagined as author and French designer Daniel Rozensztroch's industrial loft. This space retains its historical character with vintage iron cabinets and industrial-inspired lighting. Next, a Barcelona warehouse is presented as a live/work space for an architect and artist, featuring a courtyard that provides a transition between living and working areas. A compact three-story brick boiler room in San Francisco is shown to have been ingeniously transformed into a loft-like guesthouse, maximizing vertical space within a small footprint. Further examples include a renovated apartment in an 1864 factory building in Tribeca, New York, where partitions were removed and ceilings raised to create a spacious feel. A modern live/work space in Chicago, constructed from concrete panels, pays homage to its industrial neighborhood's history. Copenhagen features a converted loft in a former Viking pencil factory, adapted for a modern family. In Jersey City, a 19th-century Wells Fargo horse-and-carriage facility became a flexible art studio and residence for a pair of artists. The article also features an industrial loft in Italy, a 200-year-old factory transformed into an inviting home by designer Paola Navone. In Brooklyn, the founders of Calico Wallpaper reside in a rental flat that was once a 19th-century warehouse, preserving exposed structural beams. A cinder-block duplex in Charleston, Virginia, was creatively challenged and transformed into an elegant, gallery-like New York-style loft. An auto repair garage in San Francisco's South of Market neighborhood became an artist's loft, serving as a perfect live/work retreat with space for an art gallery, studio, and office. Finally, a former Portland, Oregon, warehouse and auto repair shop was renovated into a versatile live/work space. These diverse projects collectively illustrate the versatility and appeal of industrial-style loft conversions, demonstrating how historical structures can be adapted into functional and aesthetically pleasing modern homes. #LoftLiving #IndustrialDesign #LiveWorkSpaces #UrbanHomes #AdaptiveReuse #ModernLofts #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #WarehouseConversion

Georgina Burnett, known as The Home Genie, successfully transformed a derelict garage in Sevenoaks, Kent, into a functional two-bedroom home. The garage, originally part of a larger property, was disused and frequently misused by passers-by as a public convenience due to its proximity to a train station. Recognizing the structural decay of the original garage, Burnett decided to demolish it and construct a new two-bedroom property in its place, intending to use it as both a workspace and guest accommodation. Burnett's design philosophy for the project emphasized sustainability and repurposing. The new structure incorporates an air-source heat pump for energy efficiency, and all flooring is made from recycled and recyclable materials. A significant portion of the furniture and decor within the home is either upcycled or preloved, a practice Burnett adopted during her university years. This approach not only aligns with her environmental values but also resulted in substantial cost savings. Her dedication to rescuing items is evident throughout the house. For instance, she recounts jumping into skips to retrieve Victorian picture rails for reuse, highlighting her belief in preserving functional items and the historical integrity of materials. Burnett has honed her DIY skills over the years, often learning from professional tradespeople and receiving guidance from family members, such as her stepfather who taught her carpentry skills. The article details the transformation of various rooms. The top bedroom features a charity shop headboard recovered in turquoise fabric and side tables painted gold with turquoise accents. Artwork in this room is Burnett's own, created using leftover paint. The bottom bedroom serves as an experiment with bold colors like plum and lime. Charity shop side tables were repainted and protected with glass tops. Burnett humorously recounts an injury sustained during the creation of her artwork for this room. The hallway showcases an upcycled mirror and side unit, with stick-on tile decals transforming a plain staircase into a distinctive feature. While the kitchen was professionally fitted due to Burnett's commitments during lockdown, she integrated mirrored tiles to add visual interest. In the en-suite shower rooms, professionals were hired for tiling, but Burnett personalized the spaces. One en-suite features an ocean-themed color scheme with a painted sink unit and upcycled spice racks for shelving. A cherished family heirloom, her great-grandmother's mirror, was painted to match the wet room's aesthetic. The living room is furnished with preloved and display items. Two discarded round side tables found on the street were fixed, painted, and given a marble effect top. The main table and benches were custom-made from leftover joists from the construction, showcasing a unique and robust design. A homemade chandelier, crafted from an old bike wheel, fairy lights, and air plants, adds a whimsical touch, complemented by pallet wall planters that house soil-free air plants. Finally, a charity shop corner unit was painted white to serve as an inconspicuous TV stand, exemplifying Burnett's ability to transform affordable finds into functional and aesthetically pleasing elements. #HomeRenovations #DIYProjects #Upcycling #SustainableLiving #PropertyTransformation #InteriorDesign #GeorginaBurnett #KentProperty #SmallHomeDesign

About 15 years ago, a former urban garage and metal shop was converted into a distinctive residential space, featuring a glassed-in central courtyard and three roof decks, one of which is accessible via a 27-foot-long catwalk. This significant renovation was initially undertaken by Brooklyn's Mesh Architectures for a musician and actor. More recently, a young couple, founders of a start-up company, acquired the property. They engaged Clinton Hill-based Bespoke Only, a boutique interiors firm established 10 years ago, to reconfigure the 2,100-square-foot, three-bedroom space to accommodate their specific live-work requirements. The primary objective of the new renovation was to create a functional distinction between the couple's personal living space and their professional work environment. This was achieved by converting one of the bedrooms, located at the far end of the central courtyard, into a dedicated office space. This strategic placement allows team members to enter and exit the office with minimal disruption to the couple's private lives. Furthermore, the renovation involved updating certain aesthetic elements inherited from the previous owner, specifically replacing a lime-green kitchen, which Melissa Lee, a founding partner of Bespoke Only, described as having a more "bachelor pad-ish" feel, with a design reflecting the new owners' preferences. Melissa Lee explained the spatial organization: "The front of the house is now their home and the rear wing is the office. The courtyard connects them." Bespoke Only undertook a comprehensive re-design of the second floor, culminating in the creation of a new primary suite. This suite incorporates custom millwork, notable for its unique design, and an en suite bathroom. The kitchen was also significantly upgraded with new ebonized cabinetry, which was extended to integrate seamlessly with the living room's storage solutions. The kitchen's aesthetic now features ebony-stained white oak with antique brass pulls, a black granite countertop, and a pale green marble tile backsplash. Additionally, two bathrooms on the ground floor were renovated. Throughout the residence, the interior design firm meticulously selected furnishings that complement the building's existing industrial architectural language, characterized by timber, glass, and steel elements. Recognizing the prevalent delays associated with custom furniture orders, Bespoke Only prioritized sourcing vintage furniture pieces. Lee highlighted the practical advantages of this approach, noting that vintage items are both "readily available and sustainable." The property boasts a substantial 1,600 square feet of outdoor space spread across three distinct areas, including a terrace adjacent to the second-floor primary bedroom at the front of the building. The main living area features an impressive 28-foot-high ceiling and walls treated with chalky limewash, designed to subtly reflect the changing daylight. The original wood paneling from the former garage/metal shop has been preserved on one wall, as have the concrete floors, maintaining a connection to the building's industrial past. A 10-foot-long polished chrome and cast resin light fixture from Coil & Drift serves as a central design feature. The furnishings in this space include circa 1960s Scandinavian Siesta chairs upholstered in cognac leather, a Danish teak and mosaic coffee table from the same era, and vintage African stools utilized as end tables. In the upstairs bedrooms, an interior window that previously offered a view into the downstairs living area was removed. This alteration was intended to enhance privacy and "shift the energy outwards to the expansive terrace," according to Lee. Oatmeal sheer linen drapes were installed to filter natural light. The bedrooms, though modestly sized, were designed with inspiration drawn from classic hotel rooms, emphasizing an "artfully compact" layout where "everything within reach." New custom furniture and casework were incorporated, including a combined headboard/nightstand unit and closets featuring caning below and fluted glass above. The en suite bathroom's entrance is framed by a capsule-shaped mirror, and its walls and walk-in shower feature glossy ivory square tiles with black marble pencil trim, imparting a retro aesthetic. A downstairs guest room, which lacks abundant natural light, was transformed into a cozy, mauve-toned space, complete with a vivid pendant light and elegantly illuminated custom built-ins. A small downstairs powder room is distinguished by rustic millwork and a stone vessel sink. #Williamsburg #BespokeOnly #GarageConversion #LiveWorkSpace #InteriorDesignBrooklyn #RenovationProject #CustomMillwork #VintageFurniture

Shanti Crawford of Indigo & Ochre Design transformed a 2,600-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse in Brooklyn from a "modern white box" into a vibrant, functional family home. The clients, a family with three daughters and a dog, sought to add warmth, color, character, and personality to the new build, which initially felt cold and barren. Crawford's approach emphasizes socially responsible and sustainable design, reflected in her use of colorful, thoughtfully collected, and layered decor. The primary goal was to create distinct and intimate areas within the open-plan layout, allowing each family member to engage in various activities simultaneously, such as working, studying, socializing, dining, and playing music. This was achieved through strategic furniture arrangements, custom built-ins, and the transformative power of color. AThe design process began with the clients' desire for a fresh start, especially as their children were growing older. Crawford provided guidance from the pre-closure phase, focusing on integrating character into the developer's clean, modern aesthetic. Key to her design was the incorporation of beloved pre-existing items, including a massive patchwork kilim from Morocco and a rustic sideboard. She aimed to ensure these pieces felt intentionally integrated and harmonized with the new, streamlined elements of the apartment. Crawford used color as a declarative element to define spaces. For example, the entryway was painted in a pale pink hue, Benjamin Moore Wheatberry, which subtly appears in other areas of the home, creating a cohesive visual flow. The entry also features practical storage solutions like hooks, baskets, and cubbies from Room & Board to accommodate the active family's needs. Texture was added through a ceramic disc wall hanging and a woven Tuareg mat. In the living room, the vibrant patchwork Moroccan kilim served as the primary inspiration for the color palette, influencing the selection of seating, artwork, and accessories. Crawford also introduced a gentle antique Oushak rug to complement the kilim without competing with its intricate patterns. The dining room features the clients' cherished kilim, anchored by a sleek Artisan Latus table and Gubi Beetle chairs, with brass legs that echo other metallic accents in the adjacent sitting area. This intentional mix of rustic and modern elements ensures balance and visual interest. The family room, referred to as a 'snug,' was designed to be a cozy, intimate space. It was painted in a warm, deep gray, including the ceilings, to embrace the lack of natural light. Deep jewel tones and lush textures, such as velvet upholstery, were incorporated, along with a vintage Heriz carpet to add personality. Custom walnut shelving units were built to span an entire wall, providing depth and delineation, and housing a Samsung TV and Noguchi Akari floor lamp. The master bedroom was conceived as a serene retreat, adhering to principles of "soothing neutral colors, simple and clean lines, texture over pattern." The primary colors are neutral, with subtle pops of deep color from peacock sconces and a luminous mouth-blown carafe and glass. The bed frame is custom, and the bedding and throw are from Wolves Within. The study, designed for multiple functions including a home office, occasional guest bedroom, and storage, features a custom-designed built-in bookshelf that frames a Kalon Studios daybed. A vintage Paul McCobb desk and a vintage Swedish Kilim rug complete the space, demonstrating how distinct areas were created while maintaining an open flow within the larger apartment. The collaboration with landscape designer Laura Harmon of LFH Studio for plants further enhanced the natural integration of the design. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentDecor #FamilyHome #ColorPalette #CustomBuiltIns #StrategicFurniture #BrooklynDesign #VintageDecor #SustainableDesign

Pia Mendaro, a Spanish architect, undertook the transformation of a 100 sqm warehouse in Madrid into a flexible living and workspace for her artist friend, Clara Cebrian. Cebrian's request for a home that could adapt over time, similar to a 'Ron Weasley house,' guided Mendaro's approach. The design aimed to be minimal, allowing life to unfold within the space while incorporating specific existing elements, including a kitchen Cebrian had purchased and immovable downspouts. Mendaro emphasized understanding the space as a square, a fundamental concept informing the layout. The central element of Topo's Shed is a semi-hanging platform that serves as the artist's sleeping area. This innovative feature, developed in collaboration with architect Manuel Ocana, was conceived after considering various mobile and enclosed bed designs. The decision to elevate the sleeping space was driven by the desire to detach it from the ground. Thin steel rods and corrugated rounds secure this structure to the ceiling truss, creating an ethereal and spacious sleeping area. The platform is strategically positioned near the gabled roof's opening, allowing light to filter into the space and offering views of the warehouse's horizon. A movable ladder provides access to this elevated platform, which is designed to accommodate multiple people. Additionally, a flight of steps, doubling as seating, leads to a balcony that provides views of the surrounding neighborhood. The layout of the warehouse integrates a discreet bathroom, concealed behind a wall that also separates the kitchen and main living area from the storage facility. The kitchen floor is distinguished by wooden planks, contrasting with the larger cement flooring throughout the rest of the space, a practical choice to maintain cleanliness. The home's design incorporates a lounge area, a hammock suspended beneath the elevated bed, and a substantial open area designated as the artist's studio. The color palette primarily features greys and whites for walls, floors, and ceilings, which are accented by pastel and coral hues in the kitchen cabinetry, furniture, and artworks. Reflecting on the completed project, Mendaro noted one potential area for improvement: the lack of direct sunlight due to the north-facing windows. While this aspect is beneficial for avoiding harsh glare, she considered the future need for curtains to facilitate longer sleep, acknowledging the natural light conditions. The project, named Topo's Shed, was completed in 2020 and is located in Madrid, Spain. It spans a built area of 100 sqm, with Clara Cebrian as the promoter and Fast&Furious Office responsible for production. This design exemplifies an unconventional approach to residential and studio spaces, prioritizing flexibility, adaptability, and a distinctive elevated living experience within a repurposed industrial structure. #PiaMendaro #WarehouseConversion #MadridArchitecture #ElevatedLiving #ArtistStudio #FlexibleSpaces #ArchitecturalInnovation #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign

Jessica and Stig Olson, residents of San Francisco’s Outer Sunset neighborhood, transformed their typical 1928 stucco-clad row house garage into a bright, functional living space. The original garage, located beneath their 1,300-square-foot, two-bedroom, one-bath home, was an unfinished area of similar square footage, characterized by exposed joists, pipes, wires, a sloping concrete floor, and minimal natural light. In 2018, upon purchasing the property, the Olsons recognized the garage’s untapped potential beyond merely parking cars. The couple, accustomed to more open living spaces from their previous Hayes Valley Victorian rental, sought to replicate that expansiveness in their new home. This desire for an integrated, airy environment sparked the idea for the downstairs renovation. In 2020, Jessica enlisted the help of interior designer Hana Mattingly of Innen Studio, who subsequently brought in architect Jack Hotho. Their collaboration, marked by a convivial atmosphere described as resembling dinner parties, was heavily influenced by the Olsons' love for entertaining. Hosting became the primary goal for the new downstairs area, driving the design decisions. A key challenge addressed by the design team was the lack of natural light within the garage. Hotho emphasized diffusing light throughout the space as a primary objective. To achieve this, a bifold glass door was installed, connecting the garage to the backyard, complemented by a new exterior concrete slab for seamless indoor/outdoor flow. This area was designated as a comfortable lounge capable of seating twelve, with walls and ceiling painted white to enhance the sense of space and brightness. Mattingly noted that painting ceilings the same color as walls, particularly white, makes a room feel larger. An adjacent kitchenette features a serving window that doubles as an outdoor bar, further integrating the indoor and outdoor environments. Open shelving in the living room was strategically used to partition off an office area without obstructing light, maintaining the overall flow and brightness. Hotho explained the team's intention to define distinct spaces within the larger area while ensuring light permeated each zone. The renovation also focused on integrating existing architectural elements with new, functional designs. The team consciously preserved the garage's original exposed joists and wood support columns, adding acoustic insulation to mitigate noise from the upstairs living space and conceal plumbing and wiring. The concrete floors were re-poured, establishing a new base around a wood support post and creating flared steps at the bottom of the stairs, with the idea of a polished concrete floor plan. Jessica, who appreciates preserving historical elements, actively contributed vintage finds to the design. The aesthetic aimed for comfort, invitation, and a sense of history. Mattingly curated Jessica’s eclectic collection of antique and inherited pieces, blending them with modern items like an oversized sectional and Ikea shelving units. This approach ensured a cohesive yet uncluttered look. The kitchen was outfitted with DeVol cabinets and accessories, complemented by butcher-block counters stained by Stig Olson and an apothecary cabinet repurposed as a central island. The bathroom, lacking natural light, was intentionally designed to be cozy and rich in texture. It features dark tiles, a textural plaster finish on the walls and ceiling, a vintage concrete sink, and brass faucets. A custom mirror and cabinet provide full-height storage, and a ledge made from leftover soapstone extends into the shower. The project concluded in 2021, transforming the garage into a vibrant communal space for family gatherings, movie nights, and dinners, fulfilling the Olsons’ vision for a home conducive to entertaining and community living. #GarageConversion #SanFranciscoRenovation #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #EnglishCottageStyle #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SmallSpaceDesign #AdaptiveReuse

The article details the transformation of a 2300-square-foot penthouse apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, from a clinical, industrial space into a whimsical and functional family home. Keren Richter, co-founder of interior design studio White Arrow, led the redesign, prioritizing the tastes and needs of the clients' three young children. The project focused on softening the apartment's original hard-edged and high-contrast finishes to create a more playful and inviting environment for the family. One of the most notable features of the redesign is the kitchen. Richter expressed her particular fondness for this space, highlighting the custom cabinetry crafted from bleached maple. This choice provides a light and natural base, which is then complemented by aluminum cast hardware from Australian designer Studio Henry Wilson. A striking element is the refreshing green Calacatta turquoise marble used for the countertops and backsplash, creating a vibrant contrast with the playful powder pink kitchen cabinets. The kitchen also incorporates whimsical decor, such as abstract modern bar stools by Jack Rabbit Studio, and existing artwork from the client, all contributing to a balanced and uplifting aesthetic. Despite adopting some minimalist principles, such as built-in storage to conceal clutter, the space retains warmth and visual interest through its material and color palette, demonstrating that extensive decoration is not always necessary when materials speak for themselves. Contrasting with the lower floors, the top floor of the duplex was designed with cooler tones and a more pared-back aesthetic. The dining room, for instance, features sleek wood surfaces and mid-century modern furniture. Abstract elements are woven throughout, from a uniquely based dining table to an abstract midcentury pendant light, maintaining a visually engaging yet minimally decorated space. The design incorporates materials like chrome, mirror, hand-blown glass, and bleached maple, alongside bold Calacatta turquoise marble and cast aluminum hardware, to create a sophisticated atmosphere. Playful touches, such as a pink console, wavy candleholders, and angular lighting, are strategically placed to echo the home's overall whimsical theme without overwhelming the refined design. The living room provides a plush and inviting atmosphere, featuring a large powder-blue sofa and quilted modern armchairs that blend contemporary style with family-friendly comfort and practicality. The careful use of pastel colors and a colorful abstract rug adds playfulness without being overwhelming, balanced by a sleek chrome coffee table. This space exemplifies the fusion of sophistication with accessibility for children. In the master bedroom, the concept of softness is particularly evident. A cloud-like wall mural creates an airy and relaxing ambiance, ideal for a sleep space. While pink dominates the color scheme, it is balanced by neutral decor, including a boucle bed frame and a warm-toned geometric rug, preventing the room from appearing overly saccharine. A delicate chandelier adds an extra layer of sophistication, complementing the room's soft elements. Subtle gold accents and art pieces contribute to a luxurious, retreat-like feel. Throughout the home, the designers incorporated a refreshing and calming palette, contemporary art, unique wallpapers, locally made design pieces, and a mix of reflective 70s Italian lighting and furniture, seamlessly integrating custom White Arrow-designed elements. Wood, specifically white oak, is used extensively throughout the home to provide a refined yet durable finish capable of withstanding years of family life. Custom white oak features include a primary closet, a connecting staircase with curved detailing, and refinished floors. The design also incorporated curves in architectural details like window wells and maximized storage solutions to accommodate the active family's needs. The children's rooms on the lower floors feature more saturated colors and patterns, including an immersive scenic mural, hand-drawn wallpapers, and graphic rugs and window coverings, creating playful and intricate spaces that are balanced by abstract colorful rugs and curved wood furniture. The nursery, for example, combines a wood cot, a blue rug, an armchair, and polka-dot wallpaper with framed prints, reflecting a thoughtful blend of functional design and cheerful aesthetics suitable for young occupants. #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BrooklynApartment #HomeRenovation #WhimsicalDecor #ModernDesign #ColorPalette #CustomCabinetry #SpacePlanning

The article details a successful loft conversion project in a narrow Victorian two-bedroom property, which was undertaken to address the growing space needs of a family with two children and a requirement for a guest room. The homeowners engaged Rees Architects, led by Daniel Rees, to expand their living area. The primary challenge was the limited ceiling height of only two meters in the original loft space, which would have been further reduced by the structural framework of the planned dormer. To overcome this, the architects ingeniously lowered the ceilings on the two floors below, creating a balanced and proportionally aligned three-story home rather than a cramped loft. The loft conversion resulted in the addition of two extra bedrooms and a bathroom, significantly increasing the property's functionality. The main bedroom, now located in the loft, features integrated window seat ideas clad in plywood. These window seats offer comfortable seating and garden views, eliminating the need for additional furniture that would otherwise consume valuable floor space. The interior design of the main bedroom is characterized by a muted color palette, fostering a calming atmosphere. Daniel Rees explained that the beams in the master and spare rooms were left exposed but painted the same color as the walls to enhance the sense of space and depth. Built-in wardrobes under the eaves maximize storage, with hidden compartments behind clothes rails. Angled brass skirting creates an optical illusion of greater height, contributing to the crisp aesthetic, while carefully positioned glazing ensures ample natural light. Innovative design solutions were also applied to the hallway doors, which were configured to maximize floor space. When open, these bespoke doors allow access to the master bedroom and ensuite. When closed, they effectively incorporate a section of the hallway into the master bedroom, while providing privacy for the bathroom. Magnets embedded in the door leaves ensure they remain fully open at a 90-degree angle, maintaining a flush finish. A large rooflight with an integrated blackout blind illuminates this flexible hallway area. The walls in certain sections feature a rubber and cork material, which not only provides a contrasting texture against the black design elements but also offers acoustic insulation properties to absorb sound. The new bathroom in the loft showcases modern design with clean, uncluttered fixtures. Wall-hung sanitaryware contributes to a sense of spaciousness. The walls are covered in Marmoleum, a natural and CO2-neutral material that provides a durable, low-maintenance, and seamless finish, avoiding the breaks typically seen with wall tiles. The windows are strategically placed to create an elongated appearance, further enhancing the perception of space. A compact walk-in shower is included, without a glass enclosure, simplifying maintenance, and the floor is also finished with Marmoleum in a pattern reflecting the nearby cork and rubber walls. Matte black shower fittings complete the contemporary look. The guest bedroom is designed as a multifunctional space with movable furniture, allowing for adaptability. Olive green walls and dark floors provide an effective contrast, with the window framing garden views. Despite the deep hues, light-colored furnishings and a bright ceiling maintain an airy feel. Before the renovation, the property had a standard, cramped Victorian layout with only two bedrooms, which was insufficient for the family's needs. The loft conversion transformed this into a more spacious and balanced family home, demonstrating how upward expansion can be a highly effective solution for creating additional living areas. #LoftConversion #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceMaximization #VictorianProperty #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BathroomDesign

In Park Slope, New York, a townhouse renovation blends the old with the new, focusing on the transformation of a client's childhood home into a contemporary and functional space for a young, artistic family. Ethan Pomerance of Ethan Pomerance Architecture was tasked with this challenge, aiming to infuse new life while respecting the home's original Romanesque Revival architectural style. The design subtly weaves in echoes of the home's exterior and traditional downstairs elements with fresh interpretations, maintaining an airy feel. The project held significant sentimental value for the client, a filmmaker, who desired a vibrant space to raise her family above her mother, a Renaissance art historian. This artistic environment necessitated a design that honored historical elements while introducing modern, unique features. The renovation of the kitchen, which was originally the client's childhood bedroom, required innovative solutions to accommodate ample storage and cooking needs, as well as a dining table, despite the presence of an original chimney stack and a pathway to a terrace. Pomerance embraced these structural challenges, allowing the chimney breast to dictate the placement of the cooktop and sink, thus preserving its form and integrating it as a visual and functional anchor. To maintain the room's loftiness and volume, upper kitchen cabinets were reconceived as horizontal, shorter, and wider elements, hanging on the chimney stack like a tree trunk to create a sense of verticality. These sculptural cabinets feature sliding doors with blue geometric forms that act as functional elements and artistic statements, creating a full, dark circle when closed. The material palette combines traditional architecture with modern elements. Speckled terrazzo countertops, chosen from Concrete Collaborative, incorporate various colors present in the kitchen, tying together warm wooden parquet flooring, plaster walls, and the oat, white, and blue cabinet scheme. This selection aims to make the kitchen appear to 'grow out of the floor,' ensuring a radiant and blended look without feeling sterile, and augmenting the natural light. Exposed ductwork was utilized to eliminate soffits and preserve plaster crown moldings, adding to the room's dynamic shapes and forms. Playfulness and color were crucial to the design, with different colored cabinet frames and unique cabinet pulls adding mindfulness and a sense of mystery to everyday activities. The use of soft geometry, like the half-ellipse vent hood, introduces personality and meaning, symbolizing a balance of power. The most striking feature is the Delft tile backsplash, which Pomerance transformed into a modern, surreal collage by cutting and arranging traditional blue and white tiles, adding a storybook quality with animal and nature scenes. Subtle details, such as squiggle handles, further enhance the space's character, blending functionality with a playful aesthetic. The overall design successfully marries historical reverence with contemporary artistry, creating a unique and personal kitchen. #TownhouseRenovation #KitchenDesign #DelftTiles #ModernKitchen #ArchitecturalPreservation #InteriorDesign #TerrazzoCountertops #GeometricForms #ParkSlope

The traditional garage, once a space for vehicle maintenance and storage, is undergoing a significant transformation. Modern automobiles have outgrown many older garages, and homeowners are increasingly recognizing the potential of this often underutilized space. This shift in priority means garages are no longer mere dumping grounds but are being creatively repurposed to expand living areas. Converting a garage can substantially boost a home's living space and square footage, offering a more cost-effective alternative to extensive renovations like loft conversions or kitchen extensions. Industry experts note that the average cost for a garage conversion can start from approximately £8,000, plus VAT, making it an accessible option for many homeowners. Furthermore, for properties located in conservation areas or those that are listed, converting existing garage space can be more straightforward in terms of obtaining planning approval compared to building new extensions. Beyond simply adding space, renovating a garage can significantly enhance a home's appeal, increase its market value, and help it stand out from other properties. The possibilities for repurposing garage space are vast and varied. Common transformations include creating dedicated boot rooms, often inspired by American utility trends, which can feature built-in cabinetry, sinks, and concealed appliances like washing machines and tumble dryers. A less conventional but increasingly popular feature is the dog shower, highlighted as a high-priority item for homeowners in 2023, showcasing a blend of practicality and luxury. Innovative ideas extend far beyond utility rooms. Homeowners are turning their garages into sophisticated spaces such as glass-enclosed wine rooms complete with tasting tables, sound-proofed cinema lounges for movie nights and viewing parties, or fully equipped game rooms featuring pool tables, bars, and arcade games. Other creative uses include karaoke rooms, recording studios, yoga zones, grooming parlours, beauty salons, crafting spaces, or even potting sheds. This trend reflects a broader desire among homeowners to maximize their existing property footprint and tailor their living environments to their specific lifestyle needs and hobbies, moving away from the garage's traditional, often underutilized, function. #GarageConversion #HomeRenovation #HomeImprovement #PropertyValue #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #HomeOrganization #LifestyleEnhancement

This article highlights the transformation of a 204-square-meter, three-level loft located in Toronto's Dovercourt Park neighborhood. Originally part of a felt factory converted into residential units in 1981, this loft was one of the first legal loft conversions in Toronto, exemplifying a true California-style layout with sleeping quarters on the main level and living spaces upstairs. The property features four-meter-high original beam ceilings, multiple skylights, a private garden, and even a classic projector screen. The owner, filmmaker and creative director Lisa Mann, purchased the loft from a friend, having admired it for years. She decided to rent it out, seeking tenants who would appreciate its unique design and history, including two-tone wooden bookcases designed by Arriz Hassam in the late 1990s. Elizabeth Dyer, an artist and owner of the Summerhill boutique "Advice from a Caterpillar," along with her partner Peter Smith, a creative entrepreneur, were chosen as tenants due to their appreciation for the space. Dyer spearheaded a renovation to create a relaxed, coastal-style decor, focusing on a light and airy atmosphere. This involved painting over the previous dramatic brick-red and black accent walls in the entryway, living room, and bedroom with multiple coats of Cloud White. Heavy black curtains in the bedroom were replaced with diaphanous sheers to further enhance the coastal theme and allow more natural light to permeate the space. The original wood-fronted fireplace in the living room was covered with buff-colored Tufbak, an adhesive-backed paper often used in window displays, to further lighten the aesthetic. Peter Smith contributed to the dining area by constructing a slim table from pickled plywood, which complements the yellow tones of the existing bookcases. The furniture, including comfortable couches, camp-style chairs, and ottomans, many sourced from Dyer's shop, were chosen for their pale and unfussy appearance. The third-floor studio, previously featuring a chalkboard wall, was also painted white across its walls, ceiling, window mouldings, and floor. Smith built a narrow desk for this space, applying the same pickling technique used for the dining table. This comprehensive refresh resulted in an uncluttered space, suffused with natural light, creating an inspiring environment for Dyer's art studio, even on overcast days. The renovation successfully transitioned the industrial loft into a breezy, coastal-inspired abode while respecting its historical elements. #Renovations #DesignIdeas #InteriorDesign #CondosAndLofts #LoftConversion #CoastalStyle #IndustrialToResidential #TorontoDesign