This Central Space in Dubrow Chateau Is Simply Stunning

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

Bella Mancini of Bella Mancini Design undertook the task of furnishing a nearly 3,500-square-foot loft in Dumbo, Brooklyn, for a family of four. The objective was to create a space that offered serenity at the day's end while also accommodating frequent entertaining. The loft, situated in a former industrial building, already possessed significant character with its natural wood columns, exposed brick walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows. High-end white oak floors and a new developer's kitchen were also existing features, meaning Mancini's focus was primarily on furniture, custom millwork, lighting, paint, wallpaper, and soft furnishings. The design process was heavily influenced by the clients' lifestyle. With two preteen daughters, a husband who works from home, and a wife with demanding hours, the need for both relaxation and functionality was paramount. The couple's enjoyment of entertaining also played a crucial role in the layout and furnishing choices. This led to the establishment of two distinct dining areas: a casual space near the large windows featuring an Eero Saarinen tulip table, wicker chairs, and a custom banquette that doubles as a desk, and a more formal dining setup elsewhere in the loft. The open kitchen and living area, centrally located, were designed for fluid movement and informal gatherings, encouraging guests to choose any available seat rather than adhering to a formal dining structure. Mancini aimed to infuse a relaxed, breezy Californian aesthetic into the New York setting. However, acknowledging the clients' British background and their Hamptons home's English country style, some glamorous and sparkly touches were incorporated to satisfy their preference for a slightly dressier city environment. The kitchen, visible upon entry, features a dropped ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe to conceal wiring, with Louis Poulsen glass globe pendants illuminating the island. The foyer is anchored by a vintage Scandinavian piece, setting an immediate tone for the home's curated style. Custom elements are prevalent throughout the loft, such as the banquette in the casual dining area, which is also painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe, a dark gray used in multiple spaces. The living area showcases a sophisticated and unconventional color palette, including a pink Chesterfield sofa complemented by vintage ochre and gray armchairs, with two coffee tables sourced from Jayson Home. The formal dining area is defined by pink grasscloth wall covering, featuring chrome Breuer chairs from Knoll upholstered in durable mohair, surrounding a wood table from the Danish Design Store. A custom-designed credenza by Mancini further enhances this space. The powder room received a facelift with Ellie Cashman floral wallpaper, an Apparatus light fixture, and a vanity painted in Farrow & Ball's Dead Salmon. The daughters' rooms also feature personalized designs, such as tie-dyed wallpaper from Donghia and canopy beds, alongside custom-built desks and bookshelves designed by Mancini. The master bedroom includes nightstands from Lawson Fenning, a whimsical side table from Artemest, and a chaise lounge from Gubi, with Italian garment-dyed linens from Society Limonata at ABC Carpet & Home. These design choices collectively create a functional, stylish, and comfortable environment tailored to the family's needs and aesthetic preferences. #BellaMancini #BellaManciniDesign #InteriorDesign #LoftDesign #OpenPlanLiving #DumboBrooklyn #CustomMillwork #ResidentialInteriors

This article showcases a $1.15 million contemporary home located at 137 Willow Creek Lane in South Hanover Township, Dauphin County, part of the 'Cool Spaces' series. The residence, a Landmark Homes Callahan plan spanning 3,600 square feet, stands out with its distinctive exterior and thoughtfully designed interior. The architectural style incorporates opposing sharp rooflines, varied projections, clerestory windows, and cedar-look siding accents that complement the front door. Further exterior details include stone veneer, contrasting darker siding, black window framing, a metal roof over the front porch, and modern exterior light fixtures. The property also features a three-car side-load garage with doors matching the home's accents and horizontal windows, maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic. Inside, the home boasts hardwood floors across most of the first level. The owner's suite is a key feature, complete with a lit tray ceiling accent, an en-suite bathroom featuring a custom tile shower, and an oversized walk-in closet that conveniently connects to the laundry area. A practical mudroom, equipped with benches and lockers, provides access to both the garage and the dining room/kitchen area. The foyer creates a welcoming entrance with built-in bench seating, storage, and a vertical wall accent, mirroring the adjacent front study's design. A powder room off the foyer is fitted with a floating vanity, under-cabinet lighting, and a floor-to-ceiling tile wall. The dining room, situated to the left of the foyer, features a cathedral ceiling and a wall of windows that follow the ceiling's angle, offering views of the front yard. The open-concept kitchen is appointed with quartz countertops, a matching quartz backsplash, an island sink, a pot filler above the stove, and an exposed stainless steel stove hood. It provides ample storage through extensive cabinetry, including additional cabinets on the great room-facing side of the island. Adjacent to the kitchen is a butler's pantry with a second sink and a separate walk-in pantry. A large breakfast area bump-out off the kitchen provides direct access to the backyard deck. The heart of the home is a two-story great room, distinguished by a full-height gray and black tile surround fireplace that visually contrasts with the wood flooring and abundant windows. The second floor features a bright and open hallway leading to a loft area that overlooks the great room, offering exterior views. The remaining three bedrooms on this level radiate from the loft; one includes an en-suite full bath, while the other two share a full bath. The front bedroom is notable for its window-lit walk-in closet, illuminated by two diagonal windows facing the front of the home. The lower level includes a sliding door side-yard walk-out and can be finished to the owner's specifications. The home is listed by Landmark Homes community sales manager Jilian Treadway. #DauphinCountyHome #ContemporaryArchitecture #LuxuryRealEstate #CoolSpaces #LandmarkHomes #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #WillowCreekFarms

This article showcases a lakeside cabin in Stone Lake, Wisconsin, which successfully combines rustic cabin aesthetics with contemporary design elements to create a functional and inviting open-plan living space suitable for entertaining friends and family. The design project was undertaken by Bria Hammel Interiors, with the primary goal of creating a durable yet sophisticated retreat that could withstand the demands of frequent guests, including children and pets. The design strategy focused on balancing classic cabin style with modern sophistication. A key aspect of the renovation involved creating a large open-plan layout for the kitchen, dining space, and living room. Careful consideration was given to design selections, such as lighting and the integration of stone elements, to ensure a cohesive look that prevented any single feature from overwhelming the others. The dining area exemplifies this balance, featuring a rustic wooden table paired with contemporary Whitaker chairs and a clean-lined chandelier, seamlessly blending the two styles. The kitchen, designed to be a central gathering point, incorporates ample storage with cabinets and drawers, maintaining clear workspaces. Notable design features include a quartz backsplash and a prominent stone hood above the range cooker, contributing to a "grand space" feel. The kitchen also boasts unique architectural details such as two high roof-height windows and modern black-framed windows behind the butler's sink. The cabinetry is finished in Benjamin Moore's Bleeker Beige, adding a subtle, elegant touch. Thoughtful additions like a cozy seating nook at the end of the dining area provide extra seating and storage, emphasizing warm wood tones and offering a display space for vintage furniture. The living room maximizes its picturesque surroundings with full-height picture windows overlooking the lake, serving as a year-round focal point. The decor in this space incorporates natural textures and fabrics, harmonizing with the wood-paneled walls. An unusual curved fireplace, mirroring the stone used in the kitchen, adds a unique design element that breaks up linear lines and contributes to the room's overall interest. The mudroom introduces a subtle pop of color with wood paneling painted in Benjamin Moore's Timber Wolf, a pale blue shade that complements the warm tones of the home. This area also features natural brick flooring, adding to its charm and providing an earthy texture. An expansive bunkroom, located above the garage, is designed to accommodate up to 12 guests. It includes custom-made bunk beds with individual outlets for electronics and a durable, windowpane-patterned carpet that adds character while concealing wear and tear. This space also features a dedicated cozy seating and TV lounge area. Guest bedrooms are designed to be individually distinct yet consistent with the cabin's warm and cozy theme. Designers prioritized soft, approachable textiles to create inviting spaces, and incorporated accent lighting, such as mounted wall sconces, to maximize nightstand space. The primary bathroom diverges slightly from the subtle neutrals of the bedrooms, opting for a high-contrast scheme with black quartz countertops, bronze fixtures, and light vanity paired with porcelain shower tiles, presenting a fresh, modern interpretation of cabin style using natural materials. The cabin's exterior also received a modern facelift, retaining its original wood but integrating vertical and horizontal boards, unique stonework, and arched entryways, ensuring the home's aesthetic is updated while respecting its rustic origins. #ModernRustic #CabinDesign #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #LakesideHome #BriaHammelInteriors #FamilyFriendlyDesign #RusticContemporary

Mark Mitchell's 'Sunbeam Side Table' is a conceptual piece of furniture designed to replicate the visual phenomenon of sunbeams radiating through clouds, despite the parallel nature of actual sunlight. This design draws inspiration from the optical illusion that makes distant sun rays appear to converge from a single point in the sky. The product, crafted from Botticino marble in collaboration with Serafini, is intended to evoke the sense of mystery and wonder associated with this natural occurrence. The side table features intricate carvings that allow its spruce wood surface to interlock with the marble base without the need for adhesives, demonstrating a blend of aesthetic appeal and thoughtful construction. The design's functionality is highlighted by its ability to split light from an overhead spotlight through its wooden fins, projecting a sunbeam pattern onto the angled marble surface below. This interaction of light and material is central to the table's purpose, creating a dynamic visual experience for the user. Mitchell emphasizes that the design goes beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to tell a story and enhance user experience through its narrative qualities. The 'Sunbeam Side Table' is described as a totemic product, reflecting the designer's intent to capture and share moments of natural beauty within a functional object. The choice of Botticino marble for its fabrication underscores the product's luxurious and refined character, while the detailed craftsmanship by Serafini artisans ensures its high quality. The design process is deeply influenced by Mitchell's characteristic approach, which integrates poetry, wanderlust, and romance into his creations, whether they are products, spaces, or experiences. This side table is a testament to his ability to translate abstract natural phenomena into tangible, artful furniture. The piece serves not only as a functional item but also as a conversation starter, inviting contemplation on the interplay between nature, perception, and design. #FurnitureDesign #ConceptDesign #InnovationDesign #InteriorDesign #MarkMitchell #BotticinoMarble #Serafini #LightInteraction #EtherealMoments

Binh and Thomas Allen, a couple with no prior property development experience, embarked on an ambitious three-year renovation of an untouched Victorian terrace in West Dulwich, South London. They discovered a property built in the early 1900s with many original features still intact, a rarity in today's market, and were captivated by its inherent charm. Their vision for the home was to blend its historical Victorian elements with modern mid-century furniture and contemporary furnishings, a reflection of their diverse backgrounds—Binh from Vietnam and Thomas from Switzerland. The renovation was not without significant challenges. The couple chose to live in the house throughout the process, even enduring a period where their roof was removed for a loft conversion. This meant sharing their living space with builders six days a week and contending with constant dust and exposure to the elements, including birds flying into their bedroom through the open roof. Despite these difficulties, their belief in their dream home never wavered. They meticulously managed the project themselves, from sourcing all materials and furnishings to keeping a strict handle on the budget, a task at which Thomas excelled with his detailed spreadsheets. A key motivation for purchasing a "doer-upper" was to maximize their investment. They began with essential upgrades, such as installing a new boiler and removing outdated carpeting. The renovation was phased over three years due to budget constraints. In the second year, they tackled bathroom renovations, and by the third year, they undertook the two most significant projects: the loft conversion and the kitchen remodeling. They gathered ideas by attending local open house sales, which also helped them understand the precedents for loft conversions and extensions in their area, aiding in the planning permission process. For the loft conversion, they hired a builder with the understanding that they would procure all materials themselves. This hands-on approach resulted in a 20 percent saving on the overall cost, and they learned to negotiate prices effectively. Although the work fell under permitted development, they enlisted an architect specializing in period properties to creatively maximize the space and ensure a premium finish. The architect designed a master suite without compromising ceiling height by strengthening existing joists and adding new ones, avoiding the need for steel beams that would have reduced headroom. They also used the opportunity of scaffolding to repaint windows, repoint, install solar panels, and repair exterior damage. The kitchen renovation involved removing a chimney breast to create space for units, taking out the back wall, and installing Crittall doors. They opted for long and wide timber floorboards to enhance the sense of space and a Shaker-style kitchen with brass details for an urban country aesthetic. Cost savings were achieved by selecting a marble-inspired matte worktop made from natural, recyclable materials, with an offcut used to create a feature shelf. Their patio design was inspired by travertine tiles seen on holiday in Israel, chosen for their creamy, warm appearance and minimalist, Mediterranean feel. They also installed a home office/cinema room in the garden, a multifunctional retreat surrounded by greenery. Inside, they maintained a consistent blue and white color palette, restored original Victorian cornices and ceiling roses, and chose a mix of modern and antique furnishings to create a unique character without being overly traditional. The entrance hall's original Victorian tiles were preserved, with broken ones replaced by matching imitation tiles, and the front door's frosted glass was replaced with stained glass inspired by the floor tiles. The bathroom features reclaimed period tiles from Spain, contrasted with white wall tiles and paint, accommodating a large shower and freestanding bath. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #LoftConversion #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #PeriodProperty #HomeImprovement #LondonRealEstate

This article explores the aesthetic and functional benefits of cathedral ceilings, showcasing 12 distinct examples from various residential projects around the world. Cathedral ceilings are highlighted for their ability to create a profound sense of space and provide abundant natural light, often emphasizing the beauty of exposed wood. The featured designs range from reclaimed farmhouses and refreshed residences to modern country retreats and ski chalets, each demonstrating how this architectural feature integrates with diverse interior styles and settings. The first example is a 19th-century Dutch farmhouse redesigned by Kiki & Joost, where a dilapidated structure was transformed into an open, flowing residence centered around a living area with a cathedral ceiling. The designers reconstructed much of the interior themselves, creating a new home within an old shell. Next, a Paris residence originally designed by Kenzo Takada was refreshed by Kengo Kuma, who introduced a stunning wood cathedral ceiling to a minimal space, allowing the exterior views to dominate. NBBJ's Rysia Suchecka reinvented a centuries-old French farmhouse, converting a dilapidated barn into a modern salon with a cathedral ceiling that draws the eye upward towards a grand fireplace. A California country retreat by Pfau Long Architecture features a main house with a gable-ended, two-story barn-like structure and a cathedral ceiling. The design prioritizes clarity through a simple materials palette of wood, dark gray metal, and concrete, deferring to the architecture and views with clean lines and muted hues. Jennifer Post Design's Palm Beach residence showcases a white lacquered cathedral ceiling that contributes to a serene, beachy aesthetic, characterized by a minimalist approach with nuanced textures and a striking backdrop for art. In Nova Scotia, MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects designed a trio of gabled structures with cathedral ceilings, echoing local vernacular while incorporating modern Corten cladding and minimalist detailing. Walker Warner Architects and Philpotts Interiors perfected a Kona Coast compound in Hawaii, where a pitched wooden cathedral ceiling balances vibrant furnishings and complements the ultramodern yet traditional design, inspired by traditional Hawaiian villages. Architect Mathias Klotz created a pair of cottages on a remote island in Chile, utilizing exposed rough-hewn wooden frameworks and whitewashed cathedral ceiling boards to blend with the pristine natural setting and provide a timeless design. Humbert & Poyet designed a Swiss ski chalet with public spaces on the top floor to maximize mountain views, paneled almost entirely in rustic reclaimed barnwood, including the cathedral ceilings, which add a touch of luxury to the rustic environment. BarlisWedlick Architects designed a secret pool house discreetly tucked into a hillside in New York, featuring deceptively tall interiors with a wood cathedral ceiling and a tree-trunk colonnade that supports the nature-inspired concept. Jan Henrik Jansen designed an unconventional round house in Denmark, strategically curved to face a green meadow and incorporating exposed wood beams in its cathedral ceilings, offering a welcome mix of textures. Finally, Peter Bohlin's design for Tusen Takk, a family compound on lakeside dunes in Michigan, includes a staircase next to a double-height cathedral ceiling library, combining clear-finish maple treads with dyed-red risers. These examples collectively illustrate the versatility and visual impact of cathedral ceilings in various architectural and interior design contexts. #CathedralCeilings #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #HomeRenovation #LuxuryHomes #ResidentialDesign #WoodCeilings #ModernArchitecture #FarmhouseDesign

This article details the transformation of a 100-year-old American Craftsman home in the foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains by the design firm Salvesen Graham. The project was initiated when a young couple, one American and one British, relocated from California and sought a home that blended their cultural traditions, offering both relaxation and elegance without being overly formal. The designers, Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, aimed to create a comfortable yet sophisticated living space. The house, part of a community of heritage homes dating back to the early 20th century, presented a unique opportunity for Salvesen Graham, a firm more accustomed to working with buildings over 100 years old in the UK. The designers meticulously preserved and enhanced the home's period features, such as its brick and shiplap exterior and expansive veranda. Their approach balanced respect for the original architecture with a desire to update it for modern living, rather than creating a "living museum" of a 1900s mining town house. In the entryway, a small-scale patterned wallpaper contributes to a Victorian aesthetic, complemented by an Arts and Crafts lantern. The designers made a conscious decision to paint some of the original pine woodwork a sage green to neutralize its overwhelming orange tones, allowing the unpainted sections of craftsmanship to be appreciated more easily. This thoughtful intervention highlights the delicate balance between preservation and contemporary adaptation. The drawing room was designed as a sophisticated space for entertaining, with the clients actively participating in sourcing art, including an abstract floral piece. The living room, in contrast, serves as a more casual gathering area. The project was significantly impacted by the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to initial client-designer interactions via Zoom. This period also amplified the British client's desire to infuse English design elements into the American architectural style. A central pass-through space in the house was transformed into a hallway-cum-library, offering an intentional quiet zone that connects different rooms. The kitchen, designed in a Shaker style, bridges functional utilitarianism with English charm. Its formal layout was maintained, rejecting the trend of open-plan spaces, and features fitted units and a large island painted in various shades of blue. The dining room, referred to as the "hearth room," provides an informal dining experience with windows on three sides, creating a sense of dining among treetops. The space incorporates a striped floral fabric for curtains and Roman shades, aligning with painted tongue-and-groove paneling on the ceiling. Upholstered dining chairs, vintage rattan chairs, and a vibrant green built-in window seat contribute to a layered aesthetic. The bedrooms, particularly the master suite, are characterized by a rich interplay of color and pattern, featuring florals, stripes, paisleys, and soft geometrics in a cheerful palette of pinks and greens. Salvesen Graham, founded in London in 2013 by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, is known for its layered aesthetic and timeless approach, aiming to create warm and soft interiors inspired by Georgian England and 18th- and 19th-century Indian textiles, while bringing an edge to quintessential British charm. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AmericanCraftsman #BritishCharm #SalvesenGraham #ColoradoHomes #HistoricRenovation #TraditionalModern #LayeredAesthetic

RAAD Studio recently undertook the redesign of a luxury apartment located at 240 Centre Street, a Beaux-Arts style former police headquarters in New York City. The building, over 100 years old, was converted into 55 luxury condominiums in the late 1980s. This particular apartment, now showcasing RAAD Studio's vision, features a blend of classic grandeur and modern design. The most striking element of the redesign is found in the master bedroom, which incorporates one of the building's signature domes into its ceiling. This arched, original wood ceiling creates an impressive and unique focal point, enhanced by nautical-style windows carved into the canopy. The design includes wedge-shaped skylights, open wooden shelving, and contemporary built-ins along the room's lower perimeter, all contributing to an expansive and visually captivating space. Beyond the master bedroom, the loft maintains a distinctly modern aesthetic while thoughtfully preserving historical details. Exposed brickwork throughout the apartment serves to bridge the gap between contemporary design elements and the building's enduring classic charm. This contrast is particularly evident in the open kitchen, which combines a stone counter, sleek metal stools, and stainless steel appliances. To prevent an overly austere appearance, the kitchen incorporates staggered pendant lighting, rustic brick, and a built-in bench, which collectively soften the industrial edges and introduce warmth into the area. The redesign by RAAD Studio exemplifies how historical architectural features can be integrated with modern sensibilities to create a sophisticated and inviting living space. The project highlights a successful balance between respecting the building's heritage and introducing contemporary functionality and style. The transformation of this loft underscores the potential for creating arresting and functional interiors within historically significant structures. #RAADStudio #LoftRedesign #CentreStreet #PoliceBuilding #LuxuryApartment #BeauxArtsArchitecture #WoodenDome #Nolita #InteriorDesign #HistoricConversion

Great Manson Hall, a Grade II listed barn near Monmouth, Wales, has been transformed from a medieval agricultural building into a luxurious modern home, seamlessly blending historic character with contemporary design. The barn, part of the historic Great Manson Farm, boasts origins dating back to around 1450, indicated by features such as opposed Gothic doorways. Its listing in 2002 by Cadw recognized its significance as a vernacular barn with possible medieval origins, as well as its group value with the farmhouse and Old Cider House. The conversion, completed in 2004, meticulously preserved and integrated the barn's historical elements. Exposed stone walls and beams are central to the design, complemented by new additions crafted from natural materials and simple aesthetics. While honoring its past, the home provides comfortable, modern living with substantial broken-plan, connected rooms alongside intimate, cozy spaces. The design incorporates innovative features such as a glass roof in the garden room and internal windows, maximizing light penetration and offering continuous views of the surrounding landscape. Situated along a quiet country lane, the barn offers a peaceful rural setting just a few miles from Monmouth. The property is encompassed by an acre of meticulously maintained grounds, featuring a cottage garden with mature shrubs, a rose-covered pergola, and pristine lawns. Multiple alfresco dining areas provide opportunities to enjoy the mesmerizing views that surround the property. Practical amenities include ample parking, a double garage, and an outbuilding with potential for conversion into an annexe or home office, subject to planning permission. The interior layout includes a captivating central inner hallway that showcases original exposed features like chunky stone walls, juxtaposed with a modern glass and metal staircase. Large windows strategically placed throughout the home frame the absorbing views. The main living area features a broken-plan layout, combining dining and lounge spaces that are subtly zoned by the building's structure, varying ceiling heights, and flooring. The lounge area, with its double-height ceiling and exposed roof beams, also highlights a clever internal window on the first floor. The connected dining and living space flows into a separate sitting room, accessible via glass double doors, maintaining the theme of shared light and views. The garden room is a particular highlight, bathed in natural light from its glass roof and full wall of doors, facilitating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen, while modern, is designed with units integrated into the walls and natural materials to enhance the barn's inherent character. A prominent inglenook fireplace, specially lit, serves as a focal point in this character-filled space. The upper level comprises four double bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. These rooms are accessed from a central galleried area overlooking the lounge-diner below, offering charming spaces that blend historical features with contemporary decor and views. One en-suite bedroom features an internal window for enjoying views from the bed, a ladder leading to a mezzanine level, and a spiral staircase providing secondary access from the garden room. Two of the bedrooms also include walk-in wardrobes or dressing spaces. Great Manson Hall is currently listed for sale at £1.25 million. #AmazingHomes #BarnConversion #MedievalArchitecture #HistoricProperty #LuxuryRealEstate #WelshHomes #Monmouthshire #InteriorDesign #RuralLiving

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

The article presents a detailed look into a 14,000-square-foot bungalow located in Chhatarpur, New Delhi, designed by DADA Partners for a family of four. The architectural design aims to create a lush oasis within the city, with a prominent feature being the ground floor's appearance as a floating glass box, especially luminous at night, complemented by shallow, in-lit reflective water bodies. The north elevation contrasts this transparency with an opaque white wall from the upper floor, incorporating double-glazed glass, sweeping glass expanses, and charcoal grey sheet cladding to achieve a deceptively simple geometric aesthetic. Sumit Arora of DADA Partners highlights the complexity of the design process, emphasizing that structural columns do not obstruct views within the house. The residence boasts a triple-height space, featuring a basement pool that is open to the sky, and includes extensive formal and informal areas. The property, which had been in the client's family for years, featured several old trees. Given that two of the client's brothers already had bungalows on the farm, maintaining privacy was a key consideration. The design also needed to accommodate frequent entertaining of guests, though overnight stays would be infrequent. A significant aspect of the design involved retaining a large Caryota tree, a fish tail palm, which was initially slated for removal. This tree was integrated into a glass-encased courtyard, becoming the central focus of the three-level house. Numerous spaces within the home either open onto or overlook this courtyard, which is open to the sky, facilitating efficient airflow and contributing to a comfortable microclimate throughout the residence. The entrance of the bungalow features cantilevered slabs that extend from the base of the house, forming a stepped entry. A custom-made sculpture of a female figure in fiber and resin is precariously balanced alongside, serving as a striking visual element. A cascading water feature runs along the stepped entry court and surrounds the elevated living room, enhancing the illusion of a floating structure. One of the steps cantilevers over the water, providing a base for the sculpture. The house is also Vastu compliant; however, the expansive 3.5-acre site allowed for the integration of Vastu principles without compromising the architectural design. Large sliding windows on the ground floor connect the interior rooms with the surrounding greenery, and a guest room is provided with a separate entrance. A dedicated block of four rooms accommodates the household staff. Despite its open aesthetic, the bungalow is designed to ensure privacy. Formal areas are situated on the ground floor, limiting thoroughfare and services to this level. All bedrooms are located on the first floor, offering superior views compared to the ground-level areas that are flush with the lawns. The bedrooms are designed as suites, complete with dressing rooms and en suite bathrooms, and are accessed via a gallery running along the internal courtyard. Each bedroom features an entire wall as a window, providing views of the lush surroundings. The master bedroom uniquely overlooks the inner courtyard and is positioned at eye level with the foliage of the Caryota palm through its 12-foot-wide window, also offering glimpses of some ground-floor areas, while other bedrooms face the external landscape. The lower ground level is dedicated to entertainment areas and a notable indoor pool. A sunken court serves as a focal point for both these zones, functioning as an outdoor seating area for the lower lounge and study. The material palette includes various granites, marble flooring, and dark polished timber for the staircase. Double-glazed windows with grey aluminum frames and double brick cavity walls provide insulation against Delhi's extreme temperatures. DADA Partners sourced all the furniture and art, noting that the clients' lack of existing furniture allowed for a cohesive, contemporary design without the challenges of integrating disparate pieces. The clients' preference for a contemporary home facilitated the design process, allowing the architects to create a modern lifestyle space without constraints. #ArchitectureDesign #LuxuryHome #GlassArchitecture #ModernBungalow #DelhiRealEstate #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ContemporaryDesign #VastuCompliant #DadaPartners

This blog post showcases a classical Victorian-style renovation of a 5-room HDB flat located in the Pinnacle @ Duxton, achieved on a budget of $45,000. The homeowners, a couple with two young children, desired a lively and vibrant living space. They collaborated with interior designer Raymond Zhang from Vegas Interior Design to achieve a modern Baroque aesthetic that blends classical elements with bold, contemporary colors. The interior design successfully integrates traditional Baroque features, such as Chippendale legs on furniture, with modern touches like silver and black accents to prevent the design from appearing outdated. A prominent black chandelier serves as a focal point in the entryway, sourced by the designer at half its retail price of $6,000, demonstrating savvy budgeting. A key aspect of the home's design is the strategic use of bold colors. Flamingo pink and rich plum shades are used to distinctly define the living and dining areas, injecting an energetic and flamboyant atmosphere into the home. The living room also features a unique display of the wife's designer Barbie doll collection, which doubles as creative storage for books and magazines, adding a playful and personalized touch to the space. The master bedroom continues the theme, leaning into a more traditional Baroque style with an ornate vanity set and headboard in classic gold and ivory tones. However, the consistent integration of vivid colors is maintained through the use of red velvet upholstery for the stool, ensuring continuity with the home's overall vibrant aesthetic. This renovation masterfully combines classical architectural details, such as ornate furniture, with modern elements like the black chandelier, achieving a balanced and cohesive look. The deliberate incorporation of bright color pops throughout the flat—from the flamingo pink living room and plum dining area to the red and gold accents in the bedroom—infuses the classical style HDB with a youthful and energetic vibe. Ultimately, the design creates a unique living space that skillfully merges traditional Baroque elegance with contemporary edginess. The home stands as a testament to design versatility, where vintage details, modern touches, and bold colors come together to create an environment that is both sophisticated and full of life, leaving a lasting impression on visitors with its impeccable and vibrant style. #FiveRoom #Baroque #BoldColours #HomeTour #PinnacleDuxton #HDBFlat #InteriorDesign #ClassicalStyle #Renovation

This article highlights the renovation of a two-bedroom condo in a historical 1870 townhouse in Boston's Back Bay, undertaken by architect and interior designer Dana Arazi Levine. The homeowners, Lauren DeVestern and Stan German, were initially drawn to the unit's original mahogany paneling and Charles River views. Levine's expertise in modernizing spaces while preserving architectural integrity was a key factor in her selection for the project. The primary goals of the renovation were to update the kitchen and bathrooms, establish a cohesive interior design, and introduce architectural details to the private areas that would complement the existing grand living and dining room. Levine noted the initial "disjointed" nature of the front and back sections of the 1,200-square-foot condo. The design brief involved reconciling the owners' contrasting preferences: Stan favored a modern aesthetic, while Lauren appreciated older elements. Levine's chosen solution was an Art Deco-inspired interior, which she described as combining "clean geometry for him with rich materials for her." The nine-month renovation touched nearly every part of the home. In the main living space, a chinoiserie-style triptych depicting flowering branches was incorporated into built-ins, catering to DeVestern's romantic tastes. German's preference for modern design was reflected in a contemporary, branch-like chandelier over the dining table. The sitting area was designed to balance formality and comfort, featuring a Gus Design Group sofa with loose cushions for relaxation and deep, velvet-upholstered club chairs for sophistication, creating a space suitable for both entertaining and private use. In the kitchen, Levine enhanced the connection to the main living space by widening the opening and framing it with mahogany trim. The kitchen itself was expanded by reallocating space from an adjacent guest bathroom. The expanded kitchen features a mahogany island, a reproduction of a 19th-century piece, and encaustic cement floor tiles that lend a sense of age, contrasting with the contemporary cabinetry, range, and marble-slab backsplash. This blend creates a completely new kitchen that still feels integrated with the condo's historical context. The master bedroom, overlooking Beacon Street, also showcases a blend of modern and antique details. Smart black accents, such as an iron-and-steel canopy bed, provide a contemporary contrast to the white walls and new moldings. Softer elements include a velvet pillow with silk fringe, a carved giltwood mirror, and an heirloom Oriental carpet, creating a tranquil environment. The en suite bathroom, inspired by London’s Henrietta Hotel, features a 1920s color palette, with the main wall divided into three sections: dusty-pink paint, herringbone-patterned tiles, and marble wainscoting. Scalloped, mosaic floor tiles further reinforce the Art Deco aesthetic. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with Levine's ability to articulate their tastes and create a seamless mix of modern furniture and antique accessories. #ArtDeco #CondoRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricalHome #BostonProperty #KitchenRemodel #BathroomDesign #MahoganyPaneling #DanaAraziLevine

The article details the transformation of a 1980s Normandy-style château in Pebble Beach, California, by renowned decorator Mary McDonald. The property, acquired by Stefanie and Robert Skinner, offered ample space and stunning ocean views but suffered from heavy, dated interiors characterized by yellow tones. McDonald was tasked with modernizing the 12,000-square-foot home to better reflect gracious California living while honoring its architectural roots. The decorator's primary approach involved a wholesale brightening of the space. She initiated this by painting the walls a creamy white and lightening dark wood finishes with pickling solutions, effectively casting a soft glow throughout the château. To address the challenge of a ballroom-sized living room, McDonald cleverly divided it into three distinct seating areas, each delineated by a different rug. This strategy allowed for the integration of diverse textures and patterns, including a leather-trimmed sisal, a contemporary Khotan carpet, and a rustic cowhide, preventing the vast room from feeling overwhelming. McDonald emphasized a seamless blend of European antiques with new reproductions from Dennis & Leen, known for classical styles, creating a collected and layered aesthetic. The upholstery choices leaned towards textural, tonal neutrals with minimal patterns, contributing to a more modern sensibility that still accommodated the client's preference for French-influenced pieces. Further demonstrating her design philosophy, McDonald reimagined the library. She replaced the original wood fireplace mantel with a reproduction limestone version, bringing a touch of classic elegance. The walls were painted a soothing smoky gray, establishing a calm and ethereal palette. This soft color scheme extended to the primary bedroom, where the client desired a bright and airy atmosphere. A subtly patterned Khotan rug by Mansour, in shades of gray, set the tone for the room's furnishings. Recognizing that the ocean views were the true focal point, McDonald selected clean-lined pieces, including a nine-foot-high four-poster bed of her own design, deliberately avoiding "colorful noise" to maintain a cohesive and understated elegance. The only visual extravagance in the bedroom was a large gilded bronze chandelier, which served as a nod to the home's original Gallic influences and McDonald's inherent sense of glamour. McDonald described her intervention not as a complete overhaul of a 'terrible house,' but rather as a process of 'lightened French,' taking the traditional aesthetic to a more contemporary and clean interpretation. The project successfully infused the grand mansion with a gracious patina and redefined its livability for a modern family. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ChateauRenovation #MaryMcDonald #PebbleBeach #CaliforniaLiving #ModernFrench #LuxuryHomes #HomeTransformation