Exquisite 19th-Century London Apartment

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

This article details the transformation of a London apartment, originally a characterless 1980s/90s office space within a former factory, into a modern home for a well-traveled collector. Louise East, founder of Studio Est, was tasked with designing an apartment that would serve as a fitting backdrop for the client's extensive collection of art and objets, gathered from years of global travel. The apartment, a duplex, initially lacked internal walls, stairs, and any defining style, presenting a completely blank canvas. East's initial challenge involved devising a functional layout to incorporate three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and ample storage within a relatively compact footprint. This required extensive space planning and careful consideration of furniture choices from the outset to optimize every inch of the living area. A key design element introduced was a wall of Crittall windows, functioning as room dividers between the main living space and a passageway. This choice not only allowed natural light to penetrate deep into the apartment but also paid homage to the building's industrial heritage. Further reinforcing this industrial aesthetic, utilitarian copper hardware was integrated throughout the bathrooms and kitchen. The design vision for the apartment revolved around complementing the client's existing collection, which features bold, masculine pieces blending modernist and brutalist influences with African elements, such as a striking ceremonial chair in the living room. East deliberately opted for a simple, coherent material and color palette to create a subtle backdrop that would allow the client's collections to be the focal point. This approach also proved effective in a smaller space, contributing to a sense of spaciousness without overwhelming the eye. Beyond creating a suitable setting, East meticulously sourced new pieces that would seamlessly integrate with the existing collection. This included selecting dining chairs to harmonize with the client’s dining table and finding a significant cast glass and metal coffee table described as a 'key grounding piece.' She also incorporated brutalist hand-carved stone lamps from her own archive, reflecting her personal appreciation for handcrafted objects and the 'mark of the hand' in design. The design process focused on capturing and enhancing the client's personality and impeccable taste, ultimately creating a space that acts as a curated extension of his identity and travels. #ModernistDesign #BrutalistInteriors #IndustrialConversion #LondonApartment #InteriorDesign #CollectorHome #SpacePlanning #CrittallWindows #LouiseEast

This blog post highlights a unique one-bedroom apartment available for rent on the parlor floor of a 27-foot brownstone located at 15 Pierrepont Street in Brooklyn Heights. The apartment stands out due to its exceptional preservation of rich 19th-century architectural details. These historical elements include carved mahogany accents throughout the space, three fireplaces (with one being functional), massive pier mirrors positioned in both the front and rear rooms, and impressive 15-foot ceilings that contribute to the grandeur of the space. Further enhancing its historical character are inlaid parquet floors, intricate wedding-cake wall detailing, built-in china closets, and a bespoke built-in mahogany wardrobe. The apartment spans 1,150 square feet, offering a generous living area. The front room, designated as the bedroom, features large floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Pierrepont Street, providing ample natural light and a view of the historic neighborhood. The central room of the apartment boasts distinctive mahogany beams, while the rear of the unit houses a magnificent solarium adorned with a mahogany ceiling, creating a luxurious and distinctive atmosphere. The article emphasizes that such splendor is rarely found in rental properties, often being associated with homeownership. Beyond the interior aesthetics, the apartment's location is a significant advantage. It is situated just a few doors away from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, placing it in a highly desirable and central part of the neighborhood. While the listing focuses heavily on the historical charm and expansive living areas, it explicitly notes that the kitchen and bathroom are “surprisingly small,” a detail not accompanied by photographs. The property is being marketed by two different real estate brokers, Vicki Negron from Corcoran and Brian Lehner from Brown Harris Stevens, which is an unusual arrangement. The listing history on StreetEasy reveals that the apartment has been listed five times over the past few years, indicating a potentially complex rental pattern. Lehner’s listing also mentions the availability of a flexible lease, suggesting that the unit might be popular for corporate or short-term stays, a notion supported by the fact that it is offered fully furnished, although the furnishings themselves are not pictured in the provided images. The rental price for this unique property is $5,000 per month. Despite the potentially high per-square-foot cost, the article concludes that the price appears justifiable given the apartment's distinctive character, historical integrity, and prime location. #BrooklynHeights #LuxuryRental #HistoricApartment #19thCenturyDetails #Brownstone #PierrepontStreet #ArchitecturalDetails #RealEstate

Lithuanian studio ŠA Atelier has undertaken the transformation of a 19th-century apartment in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, converting it into a minimalist family home. The apartment, situated within an ornate townhouse constructed in 1862 in the city's old town, had deteriorated over its 157-year history due to successive changes in use and ownership. The design team at ŠA Atelier aimed to liberate the interior from its oppressive past by implementing white-washed walls, natural wood, and concrete elements, while carefully preserving original features such as decorative cornicing, ceiling roses, and door frames. The renovation strategy focused on creating a continuous flow of space throughout the apartment, thereby enhancing the sense of multiplicity and depth within the premises. New openings were strategically cut into the old walls to adapt the space for modern family living, meticulously ensuring that the original structural layout remained discernible. A key intervention was the insertion of a single new partition, ingeniously designed to house a white kitchen with a chipboard backsplash on one side and an all-white bathroom on the other. This partition not only accommodates the plumbing and services for these areas but also integrates storage for larger items above the kitchen. The narrow, open-plan bathroom is characterized by a concrete floor and white walls, conceived as an abstract space where all fixtures and accessories are built-in. The sink is cleverly positioned in a former window recess, and the bathroom door includes a special opening designed for the family's pet cat. From the shower, one can view the entire length of the apartment, with a strategically placed mirror at the far end extending the visual depth of the space. Furnishings throughout the apartment are sparse, with chairs, tables, and lamps exclusively designed and manufactured by ŠA Atelier. The chosen material and color palette for the apartment are deliberately restrained. White is utilized to provide a serene and fresh backdrop for daily life and creative activities. Wood, a natural and enduring material present in the apartment since its inception, forms a grounding element underfoot. The designers prioritize natural materials, aiming for authenticity rather than relying on artificial colors or materials that pretend to be something they are not. In the bedroom, a custom-made bed is integrated with a large plywood headboard. This headboard serves a dual purpose: concealing a walk-in wardrobe behind it and featuring two foldable flaps that reveal bedside lighting and surfaces that function as bedside tables. The completed project signifies a new and vibrant chapter in the building's history, accommodating young families, and contributing to the slow but ongoing gentrification of the district. This renovation follows a similar trend in Vilnius, where Kristina Lastauskaitė-Pundė recently refurbished an 18th-century apartment, blending exposed frescoes and original arched doorways with contemporary brass accents and grey cabinetry. Photography for this project was conducted by Norbert Tukaj. #VilniusArchitecture #ApartmentRenovation #MinimalistInteriorDesign #ŠAAtelier #HistoricalPreservation #ModernLiving #InteriorDesign #LithuanianDesign

Angel O'Donnell, an interior design firm led by co-founders Richard Angel and Ed O’Donnell, has unveiled a new interior concept for apartments at One Crown Place in London. This innovative approach aims to redefine urban living by integrating light, color, and playfulness into the residences located in the heart of the City of London. The designs are implemented in one- and three-bedroom apartments situated on the 25th and 21st storeys of the mixed-use development, which also features a hotel and private residences. The broader complex includes 246 apartments and penthouses spread across two high-rise structures. The design philosophy by Angel O'Donnell subtly acknowledges the overarching architectural vision of the building, crafted by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), and the comprehensive amenities developed by Studio Ashby for residents. This integration results in living spaces that are not only cheerful and engaging but also incorporate significant design pieces and art, imbuing each interior with distinct character. A notable aspect of the project is the prevalence of bespoke design elements, carefully adapted to complement the building's unique angular forms. Ed O'Donnell articulates that the design team's objective was to capitalize on the inherent strengths of One Crown Place. These strengths include the expansive views and abundant natural light available in the apartments, alongside the architectural blend of 18th, 20th, and 21st-century styles present in the development. He also highlighted the unusual juxtaposition of traditional craft techniques with modern engineering, evident in the glazed terracotta facades and steel skeleton structures. O'Donnell emphasizes a desire to construct upon these inspirations with dynamic and youthful designs that reflect the diverse culture, creativity, and fashion prevalent in the area. Each apartment is conceived to narrate a distinct facet of the One Crown Place story, characterized by warmth, individuality, and art sourced locally, contributing to a vibrant and personalized living experience. #LondonArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ApartmentLiving #AngelODonnell #OneCrownPlace #CityLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #UrbanInteriors #BespokeDesign

This blog post explores a 2,000-square-foot loft located on White Street in Tribeca, which was featured as part of Dwell on Design New York, an event focusing on interior design sponsored by Dwell magazine. The article details how James Ramsey of RAAD Studio undertook the renovation of this 19th-century space, emphasizing the respectful integration of historical elements with modern design. Ramsey's approach prioritized treating the existing historical shell with reverence, resulting in a blend of old and new materials and aesthetics throughout the loft. The loft was designed to include three bedrooms, with one currently serving as a nursery, alongside two full bathrooms and an additional powder room. A key highlight of the renovation is the extensive use of salvaged and recycled materials. For instance, the building's original tin ceiling was repurposed as an accent wall in the master bedroom, creating a unique backdrop for the bed. Similarly, old windows from the building were ingeniously transformed into doors for the shower and toilet within the master bathroom, showcasing a creative approach to material reuse. An especially distinctive feature mentioned is the kitchen's wine rack, which was crafted from repurposed terra cotta pipes. The interior design also reflects the eclectic tastes of the owners, incorporating various unique decorative items. Notable examples include a large skeleton of a Beluga whale suspended above the dining room table, a vintage carousel horse positioned in the living room, and numerous artworks that pay homage to New York City. Ramsey aimed for a "warm yet modern" color palette, which is evident in the kitchen's design. Here, sleek black sinks and countertops are harmoniously paired with white subway-tile walls and a sophisticated marble-and-wood island, illustrating the balance between contemporary finishes and inviting warmth. Despite the living room's long and narrow dimensions, the design successfully avoids a "cave-like" atmosphere often found in similar lofts. The space is made bright and airy through ample natural light from its windows, and a thoughtful arrangement of furniture and decorative elements prevents it from feeling claustrophobic. The overall design narrative emphasizes sustainability through material reuse, personalized decor, and a harmonious blend of historical integrity with modern comfort, making the Tribeca loft a distinctive example of thoughtful urban living. #TribecaLoft #InteriorDesignNYC #RAADStudio #DwellOnDesign #HistoricRenovation #RepurposedMaterials #EclecticDecor #ModernDesign #JamesRamsey

Canada Gardens, a 743-unit apartment complex situated in Wembley Park, London, is managed by Quintain Living and features an interior design scheme developed by Fossey Arora. The design centers on the concept of biophilia, which highlights the inherent human need for connection with nature and living elements. This approach extends beyond aesthetic appeal, offering residents benefits such as enhanced mood, reduced stress levels, and improved air quality through integration of natural elements. The design strategy actively challenges traditional urban interior aesthetics by bringing nature indoors. This is achieved through the incorporation of natural materials and extensive vegetation, creating a sense of coziness and tranquility within the living spaces. Wood, for instance, is a primary material used throughout the interiors, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The material palette is further complemented by a color scheme that includes earthy greens, soft grays, and accents of blue in the furniture and finishes. Outdoor amenities at Canada Gardens also prominently feature natural elements. Large gardens contain a wooden pirate ship playground and work-from-home sheds, designed to immerse residents in a natural environment. These spaces are intended to enhance well-being and foster creativity and productivity. The property dedicates an entire acre to garden space, which includes flowerbeds, mature trees, and grassy areas equipped with outdoor kitchens and barbecues for residents to utilize. Additionally, gardening beds are available for hire, allowing residents to cultivate their own fruits and vegetables. This not only supports a reduction in carbon footprints but also cultivates a deeper connection between residents and their food sources. Within the shared interior spaces, vegetation is strategically placed to enhance the internal environment and promote resident well-being. The clubhouse, serving as a communal hub, is adorned with hanging baskets and potted plant displays. The super-lobby further integrates nature with the presence of Ficus Nitida trees and Monstera planters. These elements are complemented by a suspended garden on the library balcony, which is designed to evolve into a dense green wall over time. Through its comprehensive biophilic approach, Canada Gardens aims to create living spaces that are both visually appealing and beneficial to the health and well-being of its inhabitants. #London #CanadaGardens #BiophilicDesign #ApartmentComplex #SustainableLiving #NaturalMaterials #UrbanGardening #GreenArchitecture #ResidentWellbeing

This blog post highlights a distinctive one-bedroom apartment available for rent on the parlor floor of a brownstone located at 57 Halsey Street in Bed Stuy, Brooklyn. The apartment stands out due to its rich array of original architectural details, which are uncommon in typical rental properties. These features include extensive original woodwork, such as intricately carved mantels, detailed wainscoting, and built-in cabinetry, all contributing to a historic and ornate aesthetic. Further enhancing its unique character, the unit boasts functional pocket doors, elegant bay windows positioned at both the front and rear of the apartment, and decorative stained-glass window transoms. These elements collectively present a living space that merges historical charm with modern living. The building itself has undergone recent renovations, ensuring that the entire house, including this unit, is in excellent condition. Potential renters are informed that two other units within the same building are also listed for rent, indicating a comprehensive renovation of the property. A contrasting design choice is observed in the kitchen, which is described as brand-new, simple, and modern. This contemporary kitchen is equipped with a six-burner gas stove and offers adequate cabinet space, providing a functional area for cooking. While the juxtaposition of the modern kitchen with the traditional mahogany splendor of the rest of the apartment might be perceived as jarring by some, it serves to create a distinct aesthetic balance within the home. The apartment offers a spacious layout, featuring a generously sized bedroom situated at the rear of the unit and a full dining room located in the middle. The dining room is notable for its marble flooring, an element that adds a touch of luxury, though its appeal may vary among individuals. A bathroom is present within the unit, though specific details or images of it are not provided in the post. Convenience is a significant advantage of this rental property, as it is strategically located near the A/C subway lines at Nostrand Avenue, facilitating easy commutes and access to various parts of the city. The apartment is listed as a no-fee rental by Jason Garcia of Citi Habitats and is priced at $3,999 per month. The article concludes by inviting readers to consider the competitiveness of this price point for a one-bedroom apartment in the Bed Stuy area, prompting reflection on whether its unique features justify the asking rent. #BedStuy #BrooklynRealEstate #ApartmentForRent #VictorianArchitecture #HistoricHome #LuxuryRental #InteriorDesign #OriginalWoodwork

This article highlights an East London apartment, located within Martha's Buildings off Old Street, which has undergone a rehabilitation by architect Julie Richards. The two-bedroom property, currently listed for £1.25m with The Modern House, was featured on Channel 4's 'Britain's Best Home' due to its sophisticated design that optimizes light, height, and views of a leafy courtyard. The apartment is characterized by an industrial aesthetic softened with calm and elegant touches. A key design element is the integration of recessed lighting in the ceiling, walls, and epoxy resin floors, which not only enhances the overall illumination but also creates clear sightlines throughout the space. The kitchen embodies an industrial style, featuring stainless steel and glass finishes. It includes uplighting along the rear wall and custom-built lighting within a glass island. A notable appliance is the original Renzo Piano Smeg hob and matching extractor. Adjacent to the kitchen, an office nook is discreetly integrated into the layout. The living area is distinguished by a sunken lounge, accessible via a concrete staircase. This space is furnished with built-in modular units and features timber floors, adding warmth and texture. A wall of sliding glass doors provides direct access to an interior balcony, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. At the rear of the apartment are two en-suite bedrooms, each equipped with built-in storage. A modular doorway system offers flexibility in arranging the bedroom layouts. The main en-suite bathroom is particularly luxurious, featuring a shower, a large freestanding bath, and sanitary ware by Starck 1. The apartment's location is ideal for urban professionals, offering a highly walkable neighborhood. The area provides easy access to markets, diverse restaurants, shops, theatres, and live music venues. Furthermore, a Tube station is conveniently located steps away, ensuring excellent connectivity to the wider London area, including the Thames. #EastLondonProperty #IndustrialDesign #ApartmentLiving #JulieRichardsArchitecture #ArtDeco #ModernHouse #LondonRealEstate

The owner of a two-bedroom London maisonette, Gemma Edwards, who frequently travels for work with a government conservation agency, opted to hire interior designer Sean Symington to transform her home. Edwards sought a unique and non-standard interior, explaining her desire to avoid a “cookie-cutter” look and her focus on enjoyable aesthetic changes rather than extensive structural renovations. Symington, known for his adept use of color and pattern, was selected to invigorate the apartment. The living room, despite its inherent character, was previously described as dull and lacked a central feature. Symington addressed this by introducing a fireplace surround and incorporating alcove shelving, which served both as a focal point and provided display and storage options. A marble mantelpiece, sourced from a reclamation yard, enhances the room's coziness, particularly when candles are lit, despite not being a functional fireplace. The room features watermelon velvet sofas from Sofa.com and an armchair upholstered in an animal spot velvet. Edwards's existing Dashiki curtain fabric was adapted for the south-facing living room, with Sean lengthening them using an additional panel, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new curtains. The room also benefits from a small balcony, providing a pleasant outdoor space for morning coffee and a developing potted garden, accommodating Edwards's busy schedule that limits traditional gardening. In the kitchen and bathroom, the strategy focused on redecorating rather than replacing existing fixtures and appliances, which were of good quality, to avoid waste. Edwards prioritized investing in fabrics and furniture, elements she could potentially take with her if she were to move. The kitchen now boasts soft, earthy red walls contrasting with dark blue cupboards and a chequerboard floor. Radiators were painted to match the walls, a budget-friendly solution. A matching Roman blind and sink skirt introduce softness, and vintage dining chairs were reupholstered. The narrow hallway was not overlooked in the decorative scheme. One wall features a gallery of framed prints, each without a backing to expose the wall behind. The radiator is cleverly concealed by a fabric skirt and a shelf, providing both style and utility. The main bedroom showcases a vibrant palette of emerald and mustard, combined with natural materials. A half-tester over the bed creates a bold statement, complemented by a classic William Morris print wallpaper. Table lamps from Pooky and smaller reading lights with scalloped seagrass shades adorn wicker-topped bedside tables. Fitted wardrobes, painted in Bancha by Farrow & Ball to match the woodwork, include both panelled doors and open shelves, aiding in creating a sense of spaciousness, with Ikea baskets used for storage. The home office underwent a significant transformation from an unliked baby blue to a warmer Farrow & Ball India Yellow. This color provides a suitable backdrop for a painting and a kilim rug, a souvenir from Edwards's time working in Africa. An antique desk from Vinterior and practical shelves with decorative scalloped edging complete the space. Edwards expresses her satisfaction with the final result, highlighting how each room now possesses a distinct character and individual color scheme, attributing the elevated aesthetic to the paint colors and fabrics chosen with Symington's expertise. #LondonMaisonette #InteriorDesign #ColorfulHome #PatternedDecor #BudgetDecorating #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeOfficeIdeas #Renovation #SeanSymington

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

This article explores the inner-city loft apartment of Alex Eagle and her partner Mark Wadhwa, highlighting its eclectic style that blends theatrical flair with a relaxed, lived-in feel. The apartment, situated in a city, serves as both a home and a dynamic showroom for Alex's design, art, and fashion store. The couple moved into their home on Christmas Eve in 2013 and hosted Christmas lunch for 20 people the very next day, emphasizing the home's ability to accommodate social gatherings comfortably. The apartment's spacious layout and a large, extendable dining table, capable of seating up to 35 people, are central to this functionality. The article notes that many items sold in Alex's store often cycle through her home, creating an organic and ever-evolving display. The open-plan design of the loft provides a flexible canvas for the arrangement of art and furniture. Large-scale photographic artworks and colorful sculptures contribute to the visual interest, while vintage furniture and cozy textures ensure the space remains inviting and informal. A custom-built kitchen centrally anchors the open-plan area, defining separate zones for dining and lounging, and a more private section housing the bedroom, bathrooms, a formal sitting area, and Alex's home office. The office features ceiling-height bookshelves that span the entire wall. Alex's background, influenced by her art dealer father and 'serial decorator' mother, is cited as a source for her appreciation of art and design. Her childhood home, located in a leafy area, inspired the inclusion of large potted plants throughout the apartment, adding a touch of nature to the urban dwelling. The article describes the overall aesthetic as colorful and lively, reflecting Alex's inherent passion for design. #LoftApartment #EclecticStyle #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #OpenPlanLiving #VintageFurniture #ArtCollection #HomeOffice

This blog post offers a virtual tour of a unique five-bedroom Victorian home located in Canonbury, London, distinguished by its quirky octagonal tower. The property, currently on the market for £5.5 million through Savills, combines a detached house built around 1855 with a two-storey 16th-century tower, originally a garden room for Canonbury House. The interior showcases original period features meticulously restored by the current owners. The exterior of the property reveals a harmonious blend of the Victorian structure and the historical octagonal tower, creating an intriguing architectural presence. Upon entering, the galley kitchen, while compact for the house's overall size, is presented as a stylish and functional space. It features an all-white design accented by a vibrant blue paint application on shelves, offering a splash of color without overwhelming the clean aesthetic. The living room is highlighted for its preserved period details, including an elegant marble fireplace and intricate ceiling cornices, which underscore the home's historical charm. The dining room, uniquely situated within the octagonal tower, provides a distinctive dining experience. Its neutral decor allows the architectural uniqueness of the tower to be the focal point. The bedroom presented in the tour features a calming pink color scheme and innovative use of a 'zoning wall' for storage. This design choice helps define distinct areas within the large bedroom, separating sleeping quarters from other living spaces. The property also includes a garden room, a conservatory located off the kitchen at the rear of the house. This space is designed for relaxation, offering views of nature and a tranquil environment. Completing the tour is a glimpse of the garden, which complements the grandeur of the home. The current sale of the property is being managed by the daughter of its late owner, Evan Hercules, a renowned television and film production designer and art director known for his work on productions like 'Midnight Express'. The article concludes by inviting readers to consider the advantages and challenges of owning a home with such unusual architectural dimensions, particularly concerning furniture placement. #VictorianHome #LondonProperty #OctagonalTower #PeriodFeatures #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #Canonbury #ArchitecturalUniqueness

This article highlights the renovation of a home at 1909 Baymiller Street in Cincinnati's West End, undertaken by Rosie Kovacs and Hayes Shanesy, the husband-and-wife team behind Brush Factory. The West End is presented as a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history, known for its unique homes and ongoing revitalization efforts, exemplified by previous renovations like a church-turned-home. The current owners' dedication to restoring historically significant buildings contributes to the area's distinct character. The renovation of the three-bedroom, three-bath home focused on maximizing square footage and enhancing the existing south-facing window exposure. A significant aspect of the project involved the complete rehabilitation of the staircase. Hayes Shanesy, with the assistance of his father, a retired master cabinetmaker, meticulously disassembled the curved cherry handrail and balusters. Each piece was stripped and refinished before being painstakingly reassembled, a process described as a labor of love due to the staircase's intricate design, wrapping around three flights. Custom woodwork is a prominent feature throughout the residence, reflecting the owners' craftsmanship. In the living room, built-in cabinets span the entire length of the space, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical storage. The kitchen showcases light wood cabinets paired with black hardware, creating a striking contrast against the tile backsplash. These custom elements contribute to the home's unique and refined interior design. The primary bathroom is another highlight, featuring a claw-foot tub, a walk-in shower, and a custom vanity. Adjacent to the bathroom, a door leads to a private deck, accessible from the owner's suite, providing an exclusive outdoor retreat. These details underscore the thoughtful design and high-quality finishes incorporated into the renovation. Shanesy reflects on the transformation of the property and the neighborhood, noting that when he purchased the house in 2016, it was a vacant, abandoned building in disrepair, a common sight on Baymiller Street at the time. He observes that most homes on the street have since been renovated, contributing to a beautiful streetscape. The owners appreciate the historical significance of the homes in the West End, particularly along Dayton Street's "Millionaire's Row," enjoying walks with their dog and daughter. The article concludes by emphasizing the neighborhood's romantic charm and its immense potential. #RosieKovacs #HayesShanesy #BrushFactory #Baymiller #WestEnd #HomeRenovation #CustomWoodwork #InteriorDesign #CincinnatiRealEstate

Maria Santos, founder of a renowned interior design studio established in 2015, presents a tour of her personal apartment in Madrid. Known for a timeless design approach that honors classical architecture while integrating modern elements, Santos emphasizes the use of natural materials to craft bright, functional, and relaxed spaces. Her Madrid residence serves as a prime example of her signature style, characterized by a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics. The apartment, originally an old and dimly lit property with numerous small rooms, underwent a complete renovation. Santos describes the process as challenging, particularly the decision-making for her own home, which she found more difficult than designing for clients. The extensive renovation involved new installations throughout and a significant re-arrangement of rooms; for instance, a former bedroom now functions as the kitchen, and the previous kitchen has been transformed into a bedroom. The completed apartment now boasts four bedrooms, two living rooms, a dining room, a kitchen, and a dressing room. A central challenge during the renovation stemmed from the property's age and poor condition of some walls. The kitchen, in particular, presented difficulties as it was initially a small, dark bedroom lacking any existing fittings. This transformation highlights the designer's ability to reimagine and restructure a space entirely. The chosen color palette reflects Santos's classic-modern style, with a predominantly white base punctuated by green accents to ensure continuity across the rooms. Texture is introduced through natural materials such as wood and stone, while textiles, furnishings, and accessories add splashes of color. The furnishings represent a mix of pieces from her previous home, new antique acquisitions, and custom-made items. Santos's forthcoming antique shop, Bingutti, is the source for many of the antique furnishings. She intentionally contrasts furniture from different eras, incorporating original Saarinen tulip chairs, Joe Colombo chairs, and a large antique French dining table. Key areas of the apartment are meticulously detailed. The entrance hall features an antique French table adorned with Chinese blue porcelain vases and a painting by Hugo Alonso, designed to ground the transient space. The kitchen, a favorite room, seamlessly connects to the dining area. Notable discoveries during renovation include two columns near the kitchen island, which were integrated into the design. The living room showcases a custom white linen sofa, an Italian antique marble coffee table, a painting by Zobel, and an antique French table, complemented by Joe Colombo's bold green chairs and a zebra carpet. In the dining room, personal paintings from Santos's architecture studies adorn the wall, alongside a French antique crystal chandelier and wall lights, contrasting with the Saarinen tulip chairs. The main bedroom is furnished with a gold metal chair and a French antique chandelier, creating a glamorous boudoir feel, balanced by Daphine table lamps by Lumina and a painting by Eduardo Lalanne. The children's bedroom features a distinctive wooden bed, adding grandeur and warmth. The photography for the feature was done by Montse Garriga. #MadridApartment #InteriorDesign #MariaSantos #HomeRenovation #ClassicModernStyle #AntiqueFurniture #NaturalMaterials #EuropeanDesign