Interactive floor plan: Span House, London

The 'Spiral' House, a modern extension to an old French countryside residence, showcases Powerhouse Company's design approach to integrating new architecture with existing structures. The project is located in Burgundy's rural landscape on a 13,000m2 property, centered around an original farmhouse. The extension adds 200sqm to the property, primarily to accommodate new guest rooms for the family. The design is characterized by its 'spiral' form, where an arm of the extension extends from the main house's upper floor, twisting down to the ground. This creates a loosely defined inner courtyard between the long volume of the extension and the existing farmhouse. The architectural challenge addressed in this project was the coexistence of the old and the new. Powerhouse Company opted for a bold, yet well-considered design that contrasts with the traditional architecture of the original farmhouse. The extension's form facilitates a dialogue between the structures, rather than a direct mimicry. The client was actively involved in the design process, leading to a high-ceilinged, elongated structure featuring glass walls on one side to maximize openness and connection to the surroundings. The lower end of the extension houses a living room and library, providing additional communal space for the main residence. The more private upper end contains two guest suites, ensuring privacy for visitors. An internal staircase runs parallel to the extension's inner outline, accommodating its gentle inclination and maintaining the fluid, organic feel of the design. The patio, formed by the spiral's curve, serves as a subtle homage to the region's traditional 'Clos' courtyards, which are common in local enclosed vineyards. This patio also functions as the complex's main entrance, skillfully blending the old and new sections of the property. The elevated volume of the extension helps to seamlessly merge the interior spaces with the external garden and the surrounding parkland, enhancing the sense of integration with nature. The extension by Powerhouse Company is designed for both openness and a skillful combination of indoor and outdoor environments, making it an integral part of the overall complex. The design visually and physically connects guests with the natural landscape of Burgundy, fostering an immersive experience. Additionally, the project successfully links the historical elements of the farmhouse with contemporary architectural design, aiming to make guests feel fully incorporated into the family's life and the home's history. The blend of functionality, aesthetic contrast, and respect for the site's context defines the 'Spiral' House as a notable example of modern architectural intervention. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #ModernExtension #FrenchCountryside #PowerhouseCompany #SpiralHouse #ArchitecturalDesign #Burgundy #InteriorExteriorIntegration

Arc House, a private residence designed by East Hampton-based Maziar Behrooz Architecture, is the latest offering from the firm, catering to a couple and their two dogs. The defining feature of the house is its striking curved roof, which emerged from a blend of practical and aesthetic considerations. The property's location, directly beneath a flight path and adjacent to a train track, necessitated a design solution that could mitigate noise pollution while simultaneously fulfilling the owners' desire for a self-supporting, column-free interior with a seamless flow. The architects adopted an industrial building technology approach, creating a hangar-type space to address both the noise issue and the need for an expansive, uninterrupted internal volume. The design aimed to create a feeling of airiness and comfort, while maintaining a homely atmosphere. Maziar Behrooz achieved this by carefully selecting a curve size for the roof. Complementing this, two large openings were strategically placed on opposing sides of the curved structure. These openings provide picturesque views of the landscaped garden and the surrounding natural environment, and also allow for visual connections through different sections of the house. The architectural layout distinctly separates the private and social areas of the residence. The main living spaces, which include areas for displaying the owner's art collection, are situated beneath the expansive curved roof. In contrast, the bedrooms are housed within an adjacent structure characterized by a flat roof, ensuring privacy. The lower level of Arc House is dedicated to functional and recreational spaces, incorporating an office, a sitting room, a garage, and a gym. Sustainability and energy efficiency were integral to the construction of Arc House. The design incorporates various energy-saving techniques and materials. These include the use of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), high-thermal windows, and closed-cell foam insulation. These features collectively contribute to a structure that not only presents an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable living environment but also significantly reduces energy consumption compared to conventionally built homes of comparable size. The integration of these elements showcases a holistic approach to modern residential architecture, balancing innovative design with environmental responsibility and occupant well-being. #ArcHouse #MaziarBehroozArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #CurvedRoof #SustainableArchitecture #EastHampton #ArchitecturalInnovation #EnergyEfficiency #ModernHomeDesign

The Sebastopol Residence, completed in 2009, is located among the rolling hills of northern California and was designed for two graphic designers by San Francisco-based architects Turnbull Griffin Haesloop. The house is strategically positioned on a steep slope between two redwood trees, with an east-west orientation maximizing natural light and views. The design concept is a simple, long, rectangular, one-level wooden box that integrates living, sleeping, and a studio space that also functions as a garage, alongside a pool area. The northern facade of the residence fully opens up to the expansive landscape, allowing residents to embrace the surrounding natural beauty. In contrast, the southern side is more enclosed, providing privacy and protection from a nearby road and driveway. The material palette includes cedar cladding, a metal roof, Douglas Fir ceilings and decking, sheetrock walls, and ipe flooring, contributing to a warm and homely ambiance. Despite its modest size of 1,700 sq ft, the open-plan layout and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces through large openings create an airy and spacious feel, ideal for showcasing the owners' art collection. The architects were particularly influenced by the site's natural features, noting the mature redwood stands flanking a large, bowl-shaped meadow. This observation led to the decision to design the house to span across the meadow, thereby claiming the scenic views and connecting the structure to the land, anchored by the existing redwood trees. This approach emphasizes the integration of the residence with its natural surroundings, making nature a central element of the design. Key features of the Sebastopol Residence include its thoughtful orientation, which capitalizes on the site's views and natural light, and its material choices that enhance the connection to the environment. The design prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and functional living, offering a practical yet elegant solution for its inhabitants. The studio's dual purpose as a garage highlights the efficient use of space within the modest footprint. The extensive use of glass and large openings blurs the boundaries between the interior and exterior, fostering a continuous interaction with the Californian landscape. This residence exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern architecture with the serene natural setting, tailored to meet the specific needs and lifestyle of its inhabitants. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #CaliforniaArchitecture #ModernHome #TurnbullGriffinHaesloop #SustainableDesign #OpenPlanLiving #ArchitecturalFeatures

The Sebastopol Residence, located in northern California, is a residential project designed by San Francisco-based architecture firm Turnbull Griffin Haesloop. Completed in 2009, this house was custom-built for two graphic designers and is situated on a steep slope amidst rolling hills, carefully positioned between two mature redwood trees. The design prioritizes an east-west orientation to maximize views and natural light. The primary concept behind the residence is a long, rectangular, single-level wooden box. This structure not only accommodates the essential living and sleeping areas but also integrates a studio that serves as a garage and a dedicated pool area. The architectural approach responds thoughtfully to its immediate environment. The north elevation is designed to open up extensively to the surrounding landscape, providing expansive views of the natural scenery. In contrast, the southern side of the house is more enclosed, offering privacy and protection from a nearby road and the property's driveway. The material palette contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The exterior is clad in cedar, complemented by a metal roof, while the interiors feature Douglas Fir ceilings and decking, sheetrock walls, and ipe flooring. Despite its modest size of 1,700 sq ft, the Sebastopol Residence achieves an airy and spacious feel through its open-plan arrangements and the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. This is largely accomplished through the strategic use of large openings, blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature. This design not only enhances the sense of openness but also provides an ideal backdrop for the owners to display their art collection. The architects articulated their design philosophy, stating that upon first encountering the site, they were particularly impressed by the 'large bowl-shaped meadow that sloped down in the direction of the view' flanked by mature redwood stands. This observation led them to the conclusion that the house should 'span across the bowl to claim the view and connect to the land at either end, anchored by the mature stands of redwoods.' This intent underscores the design's deep respect for and integration with its natural surroundings, making the landscape a central element of the architectural composition. The Sebastopol House exemplifies a harmonious relationship between modern living and the California landscape, where thoughtful design allows the residents to fully engage with and appreciate the beauty of their environment. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #CaliforniaArchitecture #ModernHome #SustainableDesign #TurnbullGriffinHaesloop #SebastopolResidence #OpenPlanLiving #LandscapeIntegration

Effective interior space planning is crucial for creating a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, whether undertaking a renovation or building a new house. The design choices vary significantly based on budget and lifestyle. Beginning the planning process by envisioning an ideal space, without initial limitations, allows for creative freedom. A key step involves defining interior zones and their intended uses, then orienting each space according to the home's solar path, ensuring comfort by avoiding overexposure to sunlight. Several layout options exist to achieve desired functionality and style. Open-plan living, for instance, modernizes a home by removing walls to create large, seamless spaces. While this enhances a home's "wow factor" and facilitates socializing, it can reduce privacy and amplify noise. Open-plan kitchens, though popular, may not suit all households, especially if a cozy living room is adjacent to a busy kitchen. To mitigate these issues, subdividing open-plan rooms into functional zones is recommended, always considering the unique constraints and opportunities of the interior. Broken-plan living offers an alternative, providing subtle ways to segment rooms while maintaining a sense of openness. This approach is particularly beneficial for busy families, allowing for distinct zones without fully enclosed walls. Techniques include using varied floor finishes, movable partitions, or splitting living areas across multiple levels. Broken-plan design allows for spatial separation, which is advantageous in smaller properties or when building on a compact plot. Material continuity, such as using the same flooring in adjacent areas like the kitchen and hallway, can tie different zones together. Mezzanines introduce additional floor area without increasing the property's footprint, typically situated above double-height rooms. They serve as a focal point and offer versatile spaces for offices or sleeping platforms, especially useful in modern conversions or homes with limited space. Planning a mezzanine involves considering height, structural requirements, daylight access, and finishing materials, including choices for stairs and balustrades that impact privacy and openness. Atriums are large internal courtyards, either covered or open-air, designed to maximize natural light throughout the interior. They connect the property with the outdoors and create a striking central feature, often linked to surrounding rooms by multiple doorways. Atriums are suitable for properties with substantial plots or larger homes needing modernization, and are particularly effective in naturally sunlight-deprived buildings. Internal glazing can further enhance light penetration and visual connection. Multilevel living spaces provide a focal point within a single room, using steps to divide areas for different functions. This can range from sunken living rooms to balconies overlooking the space below. Multilevel designs are an efficient way to achieve a trendy, broken-plan aesthetic. However, their practical implications should be considered for long-term homes or those with young children. Inside-outside living aims to blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior, increasing natural light and, in limited plots, effectively "borrowing" space from the garden. This is achieved through elements like slim glazing frames and extending interior color schemes outdoors, ensuring flush floor levels between the spaces. Finally, internal glazing, such as glass doors, is vital for enhancing light levels and visually expanding smaller rooms, while solid doors offer privacy and stronger spatial delineation. Careful consideration of door placement and opening direction is essential for furniture arrangement and overall flow. #InteriorDesign #FloorPlan #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #Mezzanines #Atriums #SpacePlanning

Studio Ben Allen undertook the renovation of a residential apartment located within a 19th-century regency villa in North London. The primary objective of the project was to enhance the flexibility and adaptability of the apartment's layout, making it more suitable for modern living while respecting the property's traditional character. The owners specifically requested the retention of the original room arrangement, prompting the studio to devise an innovative and non-intrusive solution. The design approach was heavily influenced by the geometric-patterned screens commonly found in traditional Indian architecture. This inspiration led to the development and implementation of four custom-made perforated screens positioned around the central, square-shaped hall of the apartment. These screens were designed to offer varying degrees of separation, allowing for visual connectivity while also providing privacy when needed. The perforations were parametrically designed to regulate privacy levels; areas requiring less privacy featured more open patterns, while those demanding greater privacy incorporated denser patterns. This was achieved by creating a grayscale image where darker areas corresponded to more closed patterns and lighter areas to more open ones, which was then mapped onto the screens as a continuous unfolded elevation. The movable screens can open in two distinct directions, facilitating the transformation of the space into multiple configurations. When closed, they provide a degree of privacy, allowing only light to filter through their intricate perforations. When fully opened, the screens integrate seamlessly with the existing walls, presenting themselves as decorative wall paneling. This dual functionality ensures that the apartment can be reconfigured to suit various social or personal needs without permanent alterations to the floor plan. Budgetary constraints played a significant role in material selection for certain areas. For instance, the fully tiled kitchen and bathroom were fitted with utilitarian plumbing fixtures to manage costs effectively. This project reflects a broader trend in urban architectural design, particularly in cities like London where property prices are high and space is at a premium. Architects are increasingly challenged to design compact living spaces that feel more expansive and offer greater functional flexibility. The article references other projects that address similar challenges, such as Alexander Fehre's approach to making a small apartment feel more spacious by relocating the dining table to the kitchen, and MWAI's use of minimal materials to maximize light and openness in a London property. These examples, including Studio Ben Allen's Screen House, highlight a contemporary design philosophy focused on optimizing space and functionality through adaptable architectural elements, drawing inspiration from historical design precedents while employing modern fabrication techniques. #LondonApartment #StudioBenAllen #GeometricScreens #AdaptableLiving #InteriorDesign #RenovationProject #PerforatedScreens #ParametricDesign

This article explores the design principles applied to an open-plan living space within a London apartment, encompassing a sitting room, dining room, and kitchen. The project was executed by interior designer Stephanie Dunning, known for her combined expertise in interior design and construction. Dunning's background, including early work with her father's construction business and technical drawing, and subsequent experience with Nina Campbell and royal commissions, underpins her approach to transforming period buildings into contemporary, comfortable family homes. A key aspect of this particular London apartment project involved the installation of new double-glazed Crittall windows. These windows were chosen to maximize natural light from the west-facing elevation and to contribute to a clean, modern aesthetic. The overall design scheme utilizes a muted, neutral background for the paintwork and curtains, which serves to enhance the contemporary feel and allow other design elements to stand out. Dunning's design philosophy emphasizes the use of texture to create a rich, layered look within the space. To achieve this tactile quality and to address practical considerations like sound dampening—essential in an apartment setting—the design incorporates a mix of materials and colors. Burnt-orange cushions provide pops of color and visual interest, contrasting with navy sisal flooring and a navy-and-white rug. These elements not only add texture but also contribute to the acoustic comfort of the open-plan area. The furnishings integrate both new pieces and the client's existing antique collection, blending contemporary style with personal history. Further enhancing the functionality and social nature of the space, a club fender was included to provide additional occasional seating. The article also provides specific details on how to replicate elements of this design, including sources for key items. The circular tables are from Julian Chichester, and the distinctive steel windows are manufactured by Crittall, a company with a long history of producing this style since the late 19th century, now experiencing a revival in both historical and modern properties. The cushions, noted for their deep texture, are available from Stephanie Dunning's own online business, Inky Velvet. Stephanie Dunning's career trajectory, from learning detailed technical drawing in construction to working with prominent interior designers and undertaking high-profile commissions, showcases a comprehensive understanding of both the structural and aesthetic aspects of interior design. Her methodology, as demonstrated in this London apartment project, effectively merges practicality with sophisticated design, creating an inviting and well-appointed living environment. #OpenPlanLiving #ApartmentDesign #InteriorDesign #LondonApartment #StephanieDunning #CrittallWindows #TexturalDesign #ContemporaryInteriors #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration

Lassila Hirvilammi, a Finnish architecture firm, has completed House Ulve, a residential project in Seinäjoki, Finland. The clients approached the firm to design a 300 sq m private house in a low-rise residential area characterized by 1950s homes. To ensure visual and typological harmony with the existing urban environment, the architects decided to divide the large house into two distinct volumes. The two parts of the building are arranged at a 90-degree angle and connected at the northern corner of the plot. The volume facing the street accommodates the more communal areas of the house, while the second block contains the private spaces, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and a sauna. Both sections of the house share a consistent aesthetic, featuring blueberry-tinted stained wood and a zinced tin roof. This architectural complex not only unifies two separate volumes into a single dwelling but also blends two distinct cultural influences in its design. The architects drew inspiration from both Finnish and Norwegian building traditions, referencing the traditional Finnish "pohjalaistalo" house—common in the Pohjanmaa region—and classic Norwegian fisherman's cottages. House Ulve incorporates a strong eco-friendly dimension, primarily through passive design strategies rather than advanced technology. The house is naturally heated by a geothermal heat pump, complemented by optimized sun exposure due to its orientation. The architects noted that the L-shaped configuration creates a favorable inner courtyard micro-climate. The design of the openings, combined with blinds, is intended to prevent overheating, eliminating the need for artificial cooling during the summer months. Local and recyclable wood serves as the primary building material, while Ekovilla, an eco-conscious insulation material made from a blend of wood fiber and recycled paper, is used for thermal regulation. The architects described the project as challenging due to the large scale of the house within a modest residential context, yet they found the client collaboration productive and inspiring. They emphasized the goal of discovering the extraordinary within an ordinary setting. House Ulve was recently finished in 2009, with Lassila Hirvilammi simultaneously working on other projects, including Sauna Tonttu in Soini and the upcoming Kuokkala Church in Jyväskylä. #ResidentialArchitecture #FinnishDesign #SustainableDesign #LassilaHirvilammi #HouseUlve #ModularArchitecture #GeothermalHeating #LocalMaterials #NordicArchitecture

The article presents Stable Acre House, a residential project by architect David Kohn, located in Norfolk. David Kohn, a graduate of Cambridge and Columbia University, established his London studio in 2007. His practice quickly gained recognition, winning the Young Architects of the Year award just two years after its inception, following his notable work at Caruso St John, where he contributed as a project architect for award-winning projects like the Museum of Childhood and Gagosian Gallery. Stable Acre House is described as Kohn's most recent work, characterized by its minimal and respectful approach to a stable conversion. The design was created for London-based gallerist Stuart Shave. The house is situated within the remains of a 19th-century stable complex. It features a long, orthogonal brick structure composed of an agglomeration of different volumes. The design incorporates an open living space positioned between two smaller pavilions. These pavilions include entrance areas and the private quarters of the house. The materials chosen for the construction are intentionally simple, consisting of oak cladding, a metal roof, a concrete floor, and white-painted brick. The architect notes that the contemporary construction and material choices serve to complete what was originally a functional ruin, integrating new elements with the historical structure. This project represents the practice's first significant residential commission. Alongside Kohn's temporary rooftop venue, Skyroom, which was installed on the Architecture Foundation HQ in Southwark, Stable Acre House has cemented his reputation in the architectural field. The article features multiple illustrations that provide a visual tour of the property, showcasing various rooms and design elements. These illustrations depict the living room, a dining area integrated with the living space, a single bedroom, a work area complete with a desk and bookshelf, another bedroom, and a bathroom. An interactive floor plan is also mentioned, allowing for a detailed exploration of the layout. The visual content supports the description of the house's minimalist aesthetic and the careful integration of contemporary design within the existing historical framework. The article also includes additional images of other design-related content, such as 'The Savoy, London' which underwent an extensive renovation, highlighting its restored elegance, the Beaufort Bar, and its new logo. Other visual elements include various works by Brent Dzekciorius, Raw Edges, and Seongyong Lee, covering diverse design objects from furniture and installations to tableware and lighting fixtures. These additional sections, while not directly related to Stable Acre House, offer a broader context of contemporary design and architecture, showcasing a range of talents and projects previously featured by the publication. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #StableConversion #DavidKohn #Norfolk #MinimalistAesthetic #ArchitecturalRenovation #ContemporaryConstruction #InteriorDesign

Open-plan living spaces have become increasingly common in modern homes due to their ability to maximize natural light and foster a communal atmosphere. However, this design trend also presents certain challenges, such as a lack of privacy, difficulty in concealing mess, and a potential longing for more defined, cozy areas within the home. This article explores five common dilemmas associated with open floor plans and offers practical solutions to achieve a balance between openness and seclusion. For those who appreciate the aesthetic of older homes with their unique architectural details but are concerned about their typically smaller, more closed-off rooms, a modest renovation can make a significant difference. Instead of extensive structural changes, replacing traditional interior doors with barn doors can create a more open feel. These sliding doors allow for increased openness when desired, without the need for complete wall removal, and are particularly effective when paired with wider doorways. The challenge of maintaining a tidy appearance in an open-plan kitchen, especially after cooking, can be addressed through a semi-open floor plan. Incorporating elements like a pass-through counter with built-in cabinetry and doors can provide a gentle separation between the kitchen and other living areas. This design allows for the concealment of kitchen mess when entertaining guests, while still maintaining a sense of connection during meal preparation. Balancing the desire for an open, light-filled space with the occasional need for privacy and quiet can be achieved with strategic use of sliding interior doors. Pocket doors or barn doors installed between key living areas, such as the kitchen and dining room, can effectively buffer noise and create more intimate zones. These flexible barriers allow residents to easily close off sections of the home for privacy or to reduce noise disruptions, enhancing comfort and functionality. Families with young children often prioritize a clear line of sight throughout the home for supervision. While a fully open floor plan can facilitate this, it may not always be practical or desirable, especially in older homes. A viable alternative is to widen existing openings between rooms. By replacing standard doorways with double-width arches or similar modifications, parents can achieve better visual connectivity between spaces like the kitchen, playroom, or living room, making it easier to keep an eye on children while moving about the house. Finally, the longing for cozy, defined spaces within a large open area can be satisfied by intentionally designing comfortable corners. Even in expansive rooms, strategic furniture placement can create intimate seating areas that offer a sense of enclosure and warmth. Adding elements like love seats or comfortable armchairs in corners, especially near a heat source, can transform a vast open space into a series of inviting and snug retreats, catering to the need for both communal and private living experiences. #OpenFloorPlan #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #BarnDoors #SemiOpenPlan #HomeRenovation #FamilyLiving

Architect Alexander Martin undertook the renovation of a disused loft space within an Arts and Crafts-style house located in Hampstead, London. The project aimed to transform this area into a functional and inviting guest room and study for the homeowners, a couple working in photography and television, respectively. The design brief emphasized creating an extension of the main house while also providing a distinct sense of retreat, akin to a holiday escape, offering spaces for studying, living, sleeping, and general family gatherings. The loft's T-shaped layout dictated its division into three primary zones. The broadest, south-facing wing was designated as the living area, while a compact bathroom was situated on the east side. The west wing was meticulously designed to house the study. To enhance privacy and create a unique architectural feature, the study was cleverly concealed behind a movable wall system that incorporates an integrated bookshelf. This design allows the bookshelf to slide back, revealing the study and providing a secluded environment for focused work. Martin refers to this innovative element as "a new twist on the hidden library door." Throughout the loft, the interior surfaces, including walls and angled ceilings, are clad with rough-sawn wooden boards. These boards have been whitewashed, contributing to a bright and airy atmosphere that evokes the aesthetic of a beach hut or chalet, reinforcing the homeowners' desire for a holiday-like feel. Custom joinery plays a significant role in the design, with built-in shelves and cupboards in the living space. The study features a bespoke oak desk, and the drawers were custom-sized to accommodate photo archive boxes, reflecting the specific needs of the homeowners. The living room unit was also designed to house a stereo and a vinyl collection. The bathroom introduces a contemporary touch with teal-colored square tiles lining the wet areas. Despite these modern elements, Martin ensured that the design remained harmonious with the original Arts and Crafts character of the house, which is situated near the historically significant Hampstead Garden Suburb. The consistent use of dark oak for the desktop and flooring, along with carefully selected sanitaryware, furnishings, and paint colors, creates a cohesive aesthetic that complements the existing architecture rather than clashing with it. Natural light is abundant, courtesy of five strategically placed skylights, and vintage lighting fixtures further illuminate both the study and living areas. #Hampstead #LoftConversion #AlexanderMartinArchitects #SecretRooms #ArtsAndCrafts #LondonArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #InteriorRenovation #CustomJoinery

This article details the transformation of an Edwardian apartment in London into a light-filled, functional home for its owners, who sought clever design ideas to maximize a small space. After a four-year search, the owners found an apartment with high ceilings and ample light, but it initially suffered from a 1930s configuration of small, often windowless rooms, which made it feel dark and gloomy. The renovation focused on opening up the living areas to create a vast sitting room and kitchen. Natural finishes, such as bespoke solid oak flooring from Ardeco Interier, were chosen for the walls and floors to impart an earthy, contemporary simplicity. The sitting room, a central feature of the redesigned apartment, is meticulously laid out to accommodate working, entertaining, and relaxing without the need for constant furniture rearrangement. A modular shelving and drawers system from Vitsoe serves both practical storage and decorative purposes, complementing a reclaimed timber dining table from Fiorirà un Giardino. The transformation involved significant structural changes, including enlarging the hall and removing bathroom walls to integrate the kitchen into this new, open expanse, eliminating under-utilized spaces. The kitchen itself features painted, 1940s-inspired cabinets with ventilated doors, paired with contemporary marble worktops, all designed to harmonize with the apartment's original period features. Specifically, a Southwold kitchen from Plain English, painted in Lead III oil eggshell from Paint & Paper Library, was installed. A new bedroom was ingeniously created at the rear of the apartment by enclosing one corner with purpose-built oak walls. This design ensures that the fine, original sash windows and plasterwork provide the desired aesthetic, with windows that can be raised to access a roof garden. The bedroom's oak walls also cleverly integrate a headboard, wall paneling, and a built-in wardrobe, featuring recessed handles to maintain a sleek, uninterrupted look. The doors to the bathroom and kitchen are flush with the wardrobe wall, creating a seamless appearance when closed. Space-saving solutions were critical, particularly in the bathroom, where a pocket door was installed to separate it from the bedroom. Plumbing is concealed within a tiled half-wall, which also functions as a shelf behind the sink. Mirror-fronted, wall-hung cabinets were used to enhance light in the windowless space, with bathroom fittings from Lefroy Brooks' 1930 Mackintosh collection and Architecture White Matt tiles from Fired Earth. Another pocket door within the narrow bathroom separates the shower area, lined with marble, from the sink, providing practicality for guests. Light is introduced into the shower through a strip of glass in the oak wall separating the bathroom from the bedroom. Additionally, a small glass-covered room off the communal staircase was converted into a cozy study, complete with a home office, reading chair, and television, featuring lighting from London Lighting and Vaughan. The apartment also boasts a favored roof terrace, designed by landscape architect Todd Longstaffe-Gowan, who incorporated New Zealand ferns, wild grasses, jasmine, and ivy, creating an inviting outdoor dining and entertaining space with a vintage French marble table and a Weber Genesis BBQ. #EdwardianApartment #LondonLiving #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign #RoofTerrace

A North Carolina-based couple, Bill and Sue, who share a long-standing affection for London, enlisted the expertise of local design firm Salvesen Graham to decorate their three-bedroom pied-à-terre overlooking Hyde Park. Having celebrated their engagement, numerous holidays, and even their wedding in the city, London holds significant personal meaning for them, and their 9-year-old daughter Josie has also grown accustomed to navigating its streets. The couple sought a design that encapsulated a cozy, quintessentially British style, a departure from the more neutral aesthetic of their Greensboro home. Designers Nicole Salvesen and Mary Graham of Salvesen Graham were tasked with creating an interior that reflected this British sensibility through soft paint colors, floral trims, and patinated hardware. The couple, initially accustomed to a different style, embraced the designers' vision, even agreeing to upholster all the walls in the guest bedroom with a green fabric that matched the Roman shades. Despite initial concerns about the pattern being overwhelming, the result was a calming and cocooning atmosphere. Josie's bedroom received a similar treatment, complemented by a built-in daybed that serves as a spot for entertainment and accommodates extra guests. The kitchen, previously a galley, was seamlessly integrated with the dining and living areas. Given its high visibility and the couple's preference for dining out, Salvesen Graham designed it as a decorative backdrop rather than a central functional space. Brass grill cabinet fronts discreetly conceal dishes, and the marble backsplash features intricate carvings, creating an inviting environment for drinks or breakfast. The adjacent pantry-slash-coatroom also received attention, with a custom metal and glass panel ceiling and a beaded door to hide electrical access. For outdoor dining and entertainment, the terrace upstairs is a favored spot, weather permitting. Equipped with outdoor speakers, it provides a lively atmosphere for evenings, with Sue occasionally taking on the role of DJ. When concerts are playing in Hyde Park, the music is lowered to enjoy the live performances from artists like Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen. The primary bedroom stands out as a particular favorite, enveloped in a de Gournay print that extends across all surfaces, cleverly disguising closet doors and creating a hidden primary bathroom entrance. The primary bathroom itself offers a unique detail: a selection of books within easy reach from the tub, a thoughtful surprise from the designers. To further enrich the London experience, Salvesen Graham connected Bill and Sue with art consultant Rebecca Gordon, who curated a collection of works by various artists including Chris Levine, Lorna Robertson, James Hart Dyke, Kate Giles, and Hunt and Hope. The bathroom's marble, featuring intricate curves and cuts, mirrors the shapes of the mirrors above, adding a touch of sophisticated detail throughout the apartment, contributing to a sense of being well-cared for within the home's design. The design approach prioritizes bespoke elements and a luxurious, comforting aesthetic, transforming the flat into a true London retreat. #LondonFlat #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #BritishStyle #SalvesenGraham #LuxuryLiving #PiedATerre #CustomDesign #Wallpaper

Open-concept floor plans have become a common design choice, particularly in family homes. These layouts, however, present unique challenges such as effective lighting, clear delineation of spaces, and noise management. To address these issues, designers offer insights into their strategies for approaching open-concept layouts and identifying suitable clients for this style. One of the primary attractions of an open concept is the lifestyle it facilitates. Designers like Hillary Littlejohn Scurtis emphasize that it allows individuals to engage in different activities within the same general area, fostering a sense of togetherness. For instance, a parent can cook dinner while children watch television, or a host can interact with guests while preparing refreshments. This integrated environment supports multitasking, aligning with the demands of modern life where individuals often balance work, family, and personal activities simultaneously. Open-concept designs are particularly beneficial for young families with limited shared time, as noted by Laura Neuman of PepperJack Interiors. Such layouts enable shared experiences during activities like cooking, eating, homework, and crafts. This maximizes family interaction within a constrained timeframe. Conversely, open-concept floor plans may not be ideal for clients who prioritize privacy and require distinct, separate spaces for different functions. Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas of Interiors by Design highlights that a lack of designated private areas can be problematic for those seeking solitude, even for simple tasks like snack preparation. Furthermore, open layouts can amplify the visibility of clutter and noise, which might be undesirable for individuals who tend to be less organized or prefer quiet environments. Designers employ various techniques to determine if an open concept suits a client's needs. Sophia Shibles, an interior designer, conducts detailed consultations to understand clients' lifestyles, including their noise tolerance and preferences regarding visual clutter. If a client needs a quiet workspace or reading nook, Shibles ensures that a smaller, separate area is incorporated or advises against an open plan if such an accommodation is not feasible. Key challenges in open-concept designs include creating intimate zones and managing sound. The vastness of open spaces can lead to a lack of privacy and an impersonal atmosphere. Storage is another significant concern, as it can be difficult to conceal daily clutter when all areas are visible from multiple vantage points. Noise pollution is a prevalent issue; for example, sounds from the kitchen, home projects, or television can clash, creating a distracting environment. To mitigate these challenges and define distinct areas within a large open space, designers utilize strategic furniture arrangement. Wilkinson suggests selecting furniture that appears aesthetically pleasing from all angles, as pieces often float rather than being placed against walls. Informal furniture with durable finishes, such as waxed woods and hard-wearing fabrics, is recommended for multi-functional spaces to withstand frequent use and simplify maintenance. Color schemes can also be employed to create visual cohesion or define zones. Decorative screens and well-placed shelving units offer practical solutions for spatial separation. Rugs are commonly used to ground seating arrangements and visually delineate different activity zones, as noted by Terri Ricci. Varying furniture heights and shapes, along with contrasting textures and colors, can further enhance intimacy and visual interest. Effective lighting and noise management are also crucial in open-concept spaces. Ricci emphasizes the importance of strategically positioning floor outlets to ensure balanced lighting throughout the large area. For rooms lacking floor outlets, Wilkinson carefully plans the placement of floor and table lamps to avoid tangled cords. To absorb sound, Ricci incorporates rich, noise-deadening materials for upholstery and rugs, along with soft, light curtains. Architectural elements, such as wide cased openings in historical renovations, also contribute to sound absorption, seamlessly integrating new layouts with existing structures. #OpenConcept #FloorPlans #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SpacePlanning #NoiseManagement #LightingDesign #FurnitureArrangement

The article offers an exclusive look into the London townhouse of renowned interior designer Veere Grenney, originally featured in VERANDA's November/December 2014 issue and re-published with updates ahead of Grenney's art and furnishings sale with Dreweatts auction house. Grenney, known for his "contemporary Classicism" style, acquired the early 19th-century Regency townhouse in 2010. The home, previously untouched since the 1950s, features high ceilings and large sash windows that allow ample natural light, aligning with Grenney's design philosophy of mixing the grand with the humble. Grenney's design approach in his London residence prioritizes maximizing space and fostering a connection with nature. To create an illusion of larger rooms, he employs a technique of using the same fabrics for both walls and curtains, as demonstrated in the drawing room with its rich green silk velvet. This choice of material aims to evoke a sensual and almost translucent quality, changing color in different light conditions. Proportion is also a key element, with custom-made furniture designed to perfectly fit each room. Examples include a canopy bed in the primary suite that extends to the ceiling and a dining room table complementing walls adorned with a heavily patterned Fortuny-style damask. The dressing room, which doubles as a spare bedroom, cleverly uses curtains to delineate two distinct areas, accommodating a guest bed across the room's width. Beyond London, Grenney maintains residences in Tangier, Morocco, and The Temple in Suffolk, a Neoclassical retreat once owned by British design icon David Hicks, which he has inhabited for 40 years. He describes the London home as central to his working life, while Suffolk serves as a place for regrouping and reflection, and Tangier as a slowly manifesting dream. His design principles extend to holiday decorations, where he prefers simplicity and a natural aesthetic. For Christmas decor, Grenney collaborates with celebrated florist Shane Connolly, known for his naturalistic arrangements, including those for royal weddings. Connolly's approach involved creating arrangements that appeared freshly gathered from a garden, utilizing elements like blue spruce, magnolias, jasmine, hellebores, and hyacinths, predominantly in white. This eschews festive kitsch in favor of a tamed yet wild natural beauty, reflecting Grenney's overall design ethos. The article provides specific details on furnishings and art within various rooms. The drawing room features a rich, mossy velvet from Alton-Brooke on the walls and curtains, an 18th-century English chair in Colefax and Fowler chintz, a Jamb mantel, a Gordon Watson light fixture, and art by Alan Reynolds. The drawing room also includes a vintage Maison Jansen desk, 18th-century Austrian chairs, large-scale art by Richard Lin, and custom armchairs in a Nicky Haslam fabric. A clean-lined corner sofa, covered in Alton-Brooke toile, and a custom slipper chair with Claremont fringe are accompanied by a Gerald Bland coffee table, a vintage Gabriella Crespi side table, and art by John Lavery, William Scott, Roger Hilton, and Victor Pasmore. In the dining room, a bold-patterned Tissus d’Hélène damask covers the walls, alongside a vintage Georges Jouve mirror, Royal Worcester dinnerware, Georg Jensen silverware, William Yeoward glasses, and walls painted in Paint & Paper Library's Slate II. The dining area also includes a custom sofa in Claremont fabric, a vintage Michel Boyer stool, and art by Roger Hilton. The primary bedroom showcases a custom canopy bed and fabrics from Claremont, Volga Linen bedding, a custom armchair in Tissus d’Hélène fabric, and an 18th-century English ottoman. The dressing room features a Regency chair in a Veere Grenney fabric and walls clad in Sandra Jordan alpaca. The overarching theme throughout the townhouse is a harmonious blend of metropolitan sophistication with organic elements, demonstrating Grenney's ability to create elegant yet natural living spaces. #InteriorDesign #LondonTownhouse #VeereGrenney #DecoratingIdeas #LuxuryLiving #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #RegencyArchitecture #ShaneConnolly

This blog post details the radical transformation of an old house and barn in Charrat, Valais, Switzerland, into a single-family home by Clavien Rossier architects. The project involved a significant overhaul, retaining only certain original elements like the cellar and existing levels, while demolishing a substantial portion of the old structure to make way for a contemporary design. The architects introduced a striking geometric clean shape to the renovated building, integrating functional elements throughout the design. A key alteration was the replacement of the original pitched roof with an ochre-tinted concrete volume, which now sits atop the building. This change contributes to the home's distinct aesthetic. Further modifications included making the upper-level walls thinner and enlarging window openings to maximize natural light ingress. The windows feature angled walls, which create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow within the interior spaces, adding to the home's unique character. The internal arrangement deviates from traditional layouts, with the architects opting for a corridor-less plan. This design strategy relocates circulation paths towards the building's exterior outline, along the external walls, which results in the top floors' rooms not being fully separated from each other. This open-plan approach fosters a sense of continuity and spaciousness. The first floor of the transformed residence is dedicated to communal areas, designed for family interaction and gathering. In contrast, the top floor houses the bedrooms, each strategically positioned to offer framed views of the surrounding Swiss mountains through large windows. This integration of the natural landscape into the living experience is a prominent feature of the design. The exterior of the house, clad in stone, complements the novel interior layout, creating a cohesive and visually appealing structure. The project showcases a thoughtful blend of preservation and modern architectural intervention, resulting in a unique and functional family home that stands out in its setting. The design by Clavien Rossier architects exemplifies an innovative approach to renovation, where historical context meets contemporary design principles to create a distinctive living space. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #SwissArchitecture #ClavienRossier #Renovation #ContemporaryHome #InteriorDesign #Valais