Shiplap Cabinets Blur the Lines Between the Kitchen and Living Room in This Harlem Home

This article details a creative solution to an common design challenge in a Hoboken, New Jersey kitchen renovation. The homeowners, designer Antoinette Allande Anderson and her husband Michael, were faced with a bulky, white tankless water heater prominently mounted next to their range hood. Relocating the water heater proved prohibitively expensive, with a contractor quoting approximately $8,000 to reroute pipes through the building's hallway to the laundry closet. This cost made a structural modification unfeasible, prompting Anderson to devise an alternative design strategy. Anderson's innovative approach involved custom walnut cabinetry. By incorporating the water heater directly into a seamless run of these new cabinets, she effectively concealed the appliance while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The contractor was able to raise the tank slightly, allowing the top portion to be hidden within the ceiling, with only the essential control buttons remaining accessible. This strategic placement freed up valuable countertop space, which had previously been obstructed by the water heater. The decision to use walnut wood for the cabinets was driven by Anderson's personal aesthetic preference for warm wood, influenced by her desire for a country home style. Beyond its visual appeal, the new cabinetry offered practical benefits. The custom-designed cupboards are significantly deeper and larger than the original ones, providing increased storage capacity despite housing the water heater. This ample space allows for the storage of various kitchen items, including cutting boards and large cans, demonstrating that functionality was not compromised in the pursuit of aesthetic improvement. The renovation transformed what was initially considered the apartment's main drawback into a functional and visually appealing space. The once-obtrusive water heater is now discreetly integrated, leading to a much-improved kitchen environment that elicits surprise and admiration from guests. This project showcases how thoughtful design can overcome structural limitations and enhance both the form and function of a living space without incurring excessive costs. #KitchenDesign #CustomCabinetry #SmallSpaceSolutions #DesignChallenges #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #WalnutCabinets #CreativeStorage

The 2018 Fine Homebuilding House, a net-zero energy, high-performance home in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, exemplifies modern design and efficient space utilization, particularly through its extensive use of cabinet-based storage. The project aims to meet the goals of the California 2020 initiative and comply with the country's most progressive energy code. This is achieved through a combination of a tight, well-insulated envelope, cutting-edge mechanical systems, unique material choices, and a one-of-a-kind modern design aesthetic. A key element of this design is the absence of traditional bedroom closets, replaced entirely by integrated cabinets and built-ins, showcasing how thoughtful design can maximize storage and functionality without sacrificing style. For the ambitious cabinet requirements throughout the house, including kitchen cabinets, a long wall of storage in the front-entry hallway, and mudroom storage, the homeowners, Mela and David, partnered with CabParts, a company based in Grand Junction, Colorado. CabParts supplied all the cabinet boxes and drawer parts in a flat-pack format, which significantly streamlined the ordering, delivery, and on-site management process. The use of flat-pack components is particularly advantageous for large-scale projects like the 2018 FHB House, where numerous cabinet units need to be transported and stored before assembly. This method reduces the logistical challenges associated with handling pre-assembled cabinets, such as potential damage during transit and limited on-site storage space. The flat-pack system also facilitates easier movement of components around the construction site, ensuring efficiency and minimizing damage. The cabinet boxes offered by CabParts come in two primary assembly formats: dowel-and-glue and Confirmat screw. Both options contribute to a rigid and durable cabinet structure. A notable feature of these cabinets is their all-plywood construction, including the backs, which further enhances their stability and longevity. The interiors of all the cabinets are prefinished, which saves time and effort during installation and provides a clean, ready-to-use appearance. For specific design elements or when working with unique materials, the homeowners retained the flexibility to fabricate custom doors, end panels, and drawer fronts. For instance, for the kitchen cabinets, Mela’s father, Dan Guyer, contributed by crafting drawer fronts and end panels from locally milled wood, adding a personalized touch and integrating local resources into the modern design. The article highlights the diverse aesthetic possibilities achievable with flat-pack cabinet systems. The kitchen, for example, displays a blend of styles, featuring black oak cabinets in the foreground, painted Shaker-style cabinets in the back left, and painted full-overlay doors around the refrigerator area. This variety demonstrates how a standardized flat-pack system can be customized to achieve high-style, bespoke interiors. The choice of Euro-style, full-overlay doors supplied by CabParts complements the modern plywood paneling used in other areas of the house, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the space. The installation process involved essential tools and materials, such as Titebond glues, tape measures, shims, and screws, along with an organized approach facilitated by a binder detailing cabinet locations. Titebond’s Instant Bond wood adhesive was particularly useful for efficient cabinet assembly, especially for securing backers. Overall, the project demonstrates that flat-pack cabinet solutions can deliver both practical benefits, such as ease of transport and assembly, and high-style design flexibility. By combining standardized components with custom elements, the 2018 Fine Homebuilding House achieved a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing interior. This approach allowed for a sophisticated integration of storage solutions into the home's overall design, supporting its high-performance and modern aesthetic goals. #HomeDesign #Cabinetry #BuiltInStorage #FlatPackFurniture #KitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #FineHomebuilding #StorageSolutions

Architects Taryn Bone and Camila Obniski of Bone Collective Studio faced a design challenge in a two-story Boston condo: seamlessly connecting the kitchen and living room while addressing space constraints. Initially, they considered an open-concept floor plan with a kitchen island after discovering a dividing wall was not load-bearing. However, the proximity of the condo's entryway to the kitchen made an island impractical, prompting a shift to a peninsula, which still did not achieve the desired flow between the main living areas. This led to the innovative solution of integrating a custom-built bookcase that extends into both spaces, serving as a functional and aesthetic bridge. The custom built-in design thoughtfully addresses the practical needs of the homeowners. To accommodate a large sofa situated near the shelves, the lower portion of the closed storage features sliding doors instead of traditional hinged cabinet doors. This allows easy access to contents without obstruction, even when someone is seated on the couch. Above these sliders, the built-in incorporates a variety of storage options, including open cubbies for display and push-to-open cupboards in different sizes, ranging from 14.5 by 16 inches to 31 by 33 inches. The paint color for the built-ins is Gypsum by Sherwin-Williams. A key feature of the integrated unit is a large, ceiling-height sliding door that conceals a pantry. The designers explored several options for this hidden storage, such as accordion doors or standard cabinet doors, but these were deemed awkward as they would interfere with countertop space. The chosen sliding panel allows homeowners to effortlessly access pantry items by simply shifting the door towards the living room, effectively hiding the pantry when not in use and maintaining the clean lines of the design. This clever solution ensures that kitchen essentials are readily available while preserving the aesthetic continuity and open feel of the combined living and cooking zones. The project demonstrates an adaptive approach to interior design, where initial plans were modified to better suit the specific spatial challenges and functional requirements of the Boston condo. The custom built-ins not only provide ample storage but also enhance the architectural flow between the kitchen and living room, creating a cohesive and highly organized living space. The collaboration with BTB Construction & Development for construction, Neolith for countertops, and Mouser for cabinets highlights the quality and bespoke nature of the renovation. The thoughtful design elements, such as the sliding doors and varied storage compartments, showcase how creative solutions can optimize small spaces and integrate different functional areas within a modern home. #InteriorDesign #KitchenRenovation #LivingRoomDesign #BuiltInStorage #OpenConcept #SpaceOptimization #HomeOrganization

This article details the transformation of Shelley Carroll's Reynoldstown loft kitchen, focusing on the vibrant and earthy color palette inspired by her love for plants and her yoga studio. Interior designer Leah Alexander, known for her bold approach, was tasked with reimagining the space, moving away from its original dark-brown cabinetry. Alexander collaborated with the German Kitchen Center at ADAC to implement a new open floor plan, replacing the previous U-shaped kitchen with a peninsula to enhance views of the loft's steel windows. The redesign centered on a striking combination of teal, matte-lacquered cabinetry and chartreuse handmade subway tiles for the backsplash, a selection that delighted the homeowner. These colors were chosen to complement Carroll's existing plant collection and artwork, as well as to reflect the aesthetics of her yoga studio. To maintain a cohesive and sleek appearance, the dishwasher and trash receptacle were integrated behind custom panels, and the counter-depth refrigerator was also wrapped in the same teal finish. The countertop was selected in Cambria quartz, specifically the “Brittannica Warm” shade, offering a neutral balance to the bold colors. Lighting played a significant role in the new design, with an emphasis on a single, over-scaled statement fixture above the island. This design choice aimed to create a more impactful visual, clear sight lines, and offer a cost-effective solution. The article highlights the intentional mixing of metals in the kitchen, featuring a nickel faucet, brushed-brass cabinet pulls, and stainless steel appliances, which further contributes to the loft's industrial aesthetic. Custom wooden drawer insets were incorporated to organize cutlery, adding functionality and a touch of organic warmth. The design preserved the loft's timeless elements, such as the original brick-and-concrete floors and ceiling, while painting the kitchen ceiling a bright white to reflect and amplify the new color scheme. Accessories like a shelf filled with cookbooks personalized the space, and numerous plants softened the industrial edges, contributing to an organic feel. A large Buddha statue serves as a central focal point, infusing the space with “global vibes” and promoting a sense of well-being, aligning with the homeowner’s lifestyle and profession. The article concludes by listing the key resources involved in the renovation, including Leah Alexander for interior design, German Kitchen Center for cabinetry, Stonelluxe for backsplash tiles, and Cambria for countertops. This project was featured in the Spring 2023 issue of Atlanta Magazine’s HOME. #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #LoftLiving #ColorPalette #LeahAlexander #Reynoldstown #HomeRenovation #GermanKitchenCenter

The article details the interior design and transformation of Eleven Madison Park chef Daniel Humm's Manhattan apartment, which he now shares with his wife, actress Annabelle Dexter-Jones. Initially conceived as a bachelor pad with the help of architect Tommy Zung of Studio Zung, the apartment's design evolved to accommodate a shared life, reflecting a blend of Humm's minimalist aesthetic and Dexter-Jones's more layered, improvisational style. Humm, who focused on work for 20 years, emphasizes that Dexter-Jones has made the apartment a true home. The apartment features a carefully curated material palette, including pale limewash walls that interact with shifting light and ebonized oak flooring, creating an introverted and intimate ambiance reminiscent of a grand palazzo. Zung designed the space as a sanctuary, beginning with a distinctive foyer that serves as an airlock, separating the bustling outside world from the calm interior. The main living area seamlessly integrates the kitchen, dining, and seating zones. A key design element is the "invisible" kitchen, crafted from stainless steel with the precision of a Donald Judd sculpture and integrated into walnut-clad recesses, making it almost disappear from view. Humm's intention was for the kitchen to be functional yet unobtrusive, drawing a parallel to architect Norman Foster's design philosophy of houses blending into their surroundings. The kitchen, despite its minimalist appearance, is a central hub for family meals, with the couple sharing cooking duties and often hosting Dexter-Jones's mother and Humm's teenage daughters. An espresso machine is one of the few visible signs of its culinary purpose. The living room showcases Humm's extensive collection of 20th-century furniture, featuring pieces by renowned designers such as Jean Royère, Charlotte Perriand, Pierre Jeanneret, and Isamu Noguchi. The primary bedroom continues the minimalist theme, furnished sparsely with a bed and a striking blood-red Jean Royère Polar Bear chair. This crimson hue is echoed in the room's artworks, including a Francesco Clemente painting and a Louise Bourgeois male nude, adding depth and a touch of drama to the private space. The article also touches upon Humm's culinary philosophy, particularly his decision to reintroduce meat to Eleven Madison Park after a period of being fully plant-based. He clarifies that his and Dexter-Jones's home diet is "vegetable-forward," often Mediterranean or Japanese-inspired, including fish or meat occasionally, but frequently vegetarian. Humm concludes by emphasizing the importance of doing what feels right, whether in his professional life or personal choices, such as their shared home and evolving eating habits. #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #NewYorkApartment #CulinaryLifestyle #MinimalistDesign #ModernKitchen #20thCenturyFurniture #CelebrityHome #HomeRenovation

After residing in a 900-square-foot bungalow in Venice Beach, California, Ashley Lewis and Jim Gilio embarked on a significant home renovation project. For nearly a year and a half, they couch-surfed with their newborn, Bodie, while their new Santa Monica Canyon home underwent a gut renovation. The couple was drawn to the property primarily for its location, a rare find in Gilio's childhood neighborhood, and its charming, lived-in feel, despite its modest size. The renovation involved demolishing a portion of the existing structure and adding 1,000 square feet through a second story. This expansion was crucial for accommodating additional bedrooms and creating a more functional living space, including a backyard. A key requirement for Lewis was a spacious kitchen that seamlessly connected to a family room, allowing her to watch TV while cooking. They collaborated with Annie Ritz and Daniel Rabin of And And And Architecture Studio, along with Caroline Schoppe and Lexie Sokolow of Studio LifeStyle, to bring their vision to life. Lewis initially preferred an all-white aesthetic, but the architects encouraged the incorporation of color, leading to the inclusion of navy cupboards, which she ultimately appreciated. A non-negotiable design element for Lewis was the installation of glass doors on her upper kitchen cabinets to display her collection of dishes. These were organized strategically, with frequently used serveware at the bottom and occasional pieces at the top. Two primary design themes were integrated throughout the house. A large arched window above the kitchen sink, which also serves as an outdoor bar, introduced a softening architectural element. The second dominant theme was the consistent use of oakwood details in almost every room. In the kitchen, this manifested as open cubbies in the lower cabinets for bowls and cookbooks, while a low-slung media cabinet with floating shelves in the living room maintained cohesion between the spaces. Arched hallways, featuring built-in oak storage, further connected the rooms. One such arch functioned as an entryway console, and another, doubling as a fully stocked bar, led to Gilio's home office. This office became particularly valuable during quarantine, offering views of the front door and living room. Breaking from the home's otherwise light palette, the office embraced a darker navy hue, chosen by Lexie Sokolow, to complement Gilio's preference for bolder colors and a cherry red mid-century pendant lamp. The main bedroom also featured white oak elements, with Sokolow designing a muted green bed frame and integrated wood nightstands. The design prioritized storage while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic, incorporating open shelves. In the master bath, hardwood floors extended from the main areas, drawing attention to the view outside a picture window that offered a glimpse of the ocean from the skylit bathtub. An oak-framed wall nook provided storage for bath essentials, transforming Lewis into a bath enthusiast. The article also provides a list of Lewis's preferred local vintage shops, home stores, plant sources, and online retailers, along with her biggest splurge (steel doors) and favorite texture (rattan). #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #OakwoodDetails #ColorPalette #CustomCabinetry #SantaMonicaHome #ModernFamilyHome #ArchitecturalDetails

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

The recent sale of actress Alexandra Daddario's Hancock Park home for $7.6 million has drawn attention to its interior design, particularly the kitchen's trending cabinet style. While the exterior of the five-bedroom residence, complete with pristine hedges, iron balconies, and a two-story guesthouse, evokes the Italian countryside, the kitchen cabinetry presents a distinct English cottage aesthetic. Instead of the prevalent Shaker-style fronts, the kitchen features beaded panel doors, reminiscent of the cozy charm found in the Cotswolds. The kitchen's cabinetry is finished in a robin's-egg blue hue, complemented by delicate hardware. This design choice aligns with predictions from interior designers for 2023, specifically the trend toward embellished door profiles, including beading, step details, and ogee edges, as highlighted by designer Zoe Feldman. The space successfully integrates timeless appeal with modern elements, such as Calacatta marble counters and a substantial stainless steel range hood. For those looking to replicate this look, several accessible options are available. Replacing flat door fronts with grooved alternatives can achieve an old-world whimsical touch. Budget-friendly solutions can be found at retailers like IKEA and Home Depot. For a more sophisticated upgrade, creations from Semihandmade by Sarah Sherman Samuel are suggested. If the specific blue color of Daddario's cabinets is desired, existing cupboards can be repainted using shades such as Farrow & Ball’s Stone Blue or Clare’s Summer Friday, allowing for a refreshed look without the need for an extensive renovation budget. The article provides product recommendations to help readers achieve a similar kitchen aesthetic. These include specific paint colors like Farrow & Ball's Stone Blue and Clare's Summer Friday, as well as cabinet door options such as the Agave SSS Beaded Door for Sektion from Semihandmade and the Ashton Cabinet Door in Natural Maple from Home Depot. The combination of these elements allows homeowners to introduce a blend of traditional English charm and contemporary design into their kitchens, mirroring the style observed in Alexandra Daddario’s former Los Angeles residence. #KitchenDesign #KitchenCabinets #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CelebrityHomes #CottagecoreStyle #HomeRenovation #DesignInspiration

This blog post, titled "Parts of the House," serves as a comprehensive guide to various components of a home, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate materials, themes, and aesthetics to maintain interest and uniqueness in each area. It acts as a portal to numerous detailed articles, each focusing on a specific part of the house, offering expert advice and DIY guidance. The content covers a wide array of topics, from fundamental structural elements like foundations, roofs, walls, and floors to more detailed interior and exterior features such as ceilings, chimneys, doors, windows, fireplaces, gutters, insulation, staircases, siding, and trim. It also delves into specific materials like drywall, tiles, concrete, vinyl, hardwood, and carpet, providing practical tips for their installation, maintenance, and repair. For instance, the article highlights the importance of proper sealing for baseboards to prevent drafts, offering a step-by-step approach. It also provides insights into sanding drywall with minimal dust, addressing common issues like drooping ceiling fan blades with troubleshooting tips, and testing the weight-bearing capacity of drywall anchors. Flooring is a recurring theme, with guides on choosing the right type of flooring, avoiding common installation mistakes, and repairing damaged vinyl planks. There are also articles on cutting baseboard corners and installing quarter-round molding for a professional finish. Beyond basic construction and repair, the post touches on home improvement aspects such as insulating storm doors for winter, cleaning fire pits to prevent rust, and painting various surfaces, including concrete and popcorn ceilings. It also features articles on diagnosing and fixing issues like bubbling vinyl siding and preventing retaining wall collapses. Design and aesthetic elements are explored through topics like front door colors for curb appeal and the historical and modern reasons behind blue porch ceilings in Southern homes. Furthermore, the content offers practical advice on improving wall insulation for energy efficiency and showcases new building, kitchen, and bath products from industry events. The articles provide a blend of DIY projects, how-to guides, maintenance tips, inspiration, and product reviews, catering to both novice DIYers and those looking for more advanced techniques. The overarching goal is to empower homeowners with the knowledge and skills to enhance their living spaces, covering everything from minor repairs and cleaning to significant renovations and aesthetic upgrades, while also emphasizing safety and energy efficiency. #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #HouseComponents #HomeMaintenance #FlooringGuide #WallRepair #CeilingMaintenance #ExteriorCare #InsulationTips

The article explores the design philosophy behind Emma Roberts' kitchen island in her Los Angeles home, highlighting how it challenges traditional notions of hidden storage in favor of a more 'lived-in' and characterful aesthetic. Emma Roberts' LA cottage, which she refers to as her 'grown-up dollhouse,' is characterized by warm colors, bold patterns, and cozy textures. Her kitchen, a blend of warm beige cabinetry, marble countertops, and a brown-and-white checkerboard floor, embodies a charming cottage style. Central to this kitchen is a wooden island, modest in size but significant in its decorative impact. The island features a sleek frame, open shelving on one side, and bar seating on the other, creating a balance between functionality and style. This design choice reflects Roberts' maximalist approach, where everyday kitchen items are openly displayed rather than concealed, becoming an integral part of the home's visual narrative. This approach diverges from the common practice of tucking away kitchenware, instead using it to add personality and a sense of authenticity to the space. Initially, Roberts believed her kitchen was too small for an island. However, with guidance from interior designers at Pierce & Ward, she opted for an off-the-shelf model from Urban Outfitters, specifically the Grayson kitchen island. This choice demonstrates that stylish and functional design elements can be found in accessible retail spaces, even for celebrity homes. The Grayson kitchen island, with its natural wood tones, effectively grounds the kitchen and serves as a testament to the effectiveness of simple, natural decor. Elana Mendelson, founder of Elana Designs, praises Roberts' choice of an open-frame furniture piece over built-in cabinetry. Mendelson notes that this design keeps the visual weight light, allowing the eye to flow through the piece and preventing the island from dominating the floor plan, a crucial consideration for smaller kitchens. The island’s dual function as a prep station and a breakfast bar, combined with its warm, natural wood, bridges the gap between a utilitarian workspace and a welcoming dining area. The unique character of Roberts' kitchen also stems from her use of kitchenware as decorative elements. Items typically stored away, such as mixing bowls and pans, are showcased on the open lower shelf of the island. This 'utilitarian decor' strategy introduces layers of color, interest, and geometry that would otherwise be hidden by sterile cabinet doors. Mendelson emphasizes that these curated items, displayed as 'functional clutter,' signal that the home is actively lived in, rather than merely presented for show. This concept contributes to the overall warm, cozy, and inviting 'lived-in' aesthetic of Emma Roberts' kitchen. #CelebrityStyle #KitchenDesign #KitchenIsland #OpenStorage #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #EmmaRoberts #LivedInAesthetic #CottageStyle

Architects Jody Beck and Ross-Alan Tisdale undertook a kitchen renovation for clients who desired to integrate significant color into their new kitchen design. Initially expecting a single color, Beck was surprised when the clients selected four distinct hues: Rust, Ochre, Night, and Mint. These colors, from Kerf's laminate cabinet collection, needed to be incorporated harmoniously without creating a chaotic appearance. The design solution involved a strategic mix of open and closed, hardware-less cupboards and drawers, where the chosen shades are distributed seemingly at random on some fronts and within inset nooks. The primary material for the cabinets is high-grade plywood, notable for its formaldehyde-free glue, which contributes to its sustainability credentials. The architects meticulously refined the arrangement using a 3-D model to achieve the desired aesthetic balance. Despite the vibrant use of color, the renovated kitchen is technically smaller than its previous iteration. The architects sacrificed some square footage to accommodate an outdoor porch, but they optimized the layout by opening the kitchen to the dining room. This redesign also prioritized increased countertop space, achieved through the addition of both a peninsula and an island. Beck notes that the use of bright white walls helps to visually expand the space, making it feel larger despite its physical reduction. An unexpected benefit of the color-blocked cabinetry emerged as enhanced organization. The distinct colors provide an intuitive system for guests and family members to locate items quickly. For instance, one can direct someone to 'grab the silverware in the mint drawer' or find the trash in 'the blue cabinet,' leveraging the color coding for efficient identification. The design also considered the homeowners' three children. The majority of the open nooks are positioned at heights accessible to the kids, and features like round finger holes on sliding doors and niches on drawers are ergonomically designed for easy use. The lower built-ins on the dining room side of the peninsula are designated for children's items such as school gear, craft supplies, and other miscellaneous belongings. Stacks of artwork can be conveniently stored in the red drawers, preventing clutter from accumulating on the countertops and contributing to a consistently tidy kitchen. #KitchenDesign #ColorBlocking #Cabinetry #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SustainableMaterials #SpaceOptimization #FamilyFriendlyDesign #KitchenOrganization

Hudson Moore, a design editor, resides in a Harlem studio apartment that he secured quickly, only realizing its lack of closets after signing the lease. Despite the initial oversight, Moore was drawn to the apartment's good ceiling height, wood floors, and attractive paneling. His move from an Upper West Side apartment was prompted by a significant rent increase, but the Harlem studio offered an upgrade in living space, with the main living/sleeping area measuring approximately 17-by-17 feet, larger than his previous 9-by-18-foot studio, and a separate 30-square-foot kitchen. Moore, who frequently moves, approaches the process of boxing and unboxing his belongings with enthusiasm rather than stress. Having lived in eleven different homes before graduating high school, he has adopted his parents' habit of fixing up homes and shedding possessions before each move. This practice allows him to maintain a carefully curated collection of items, preventing his small space from becoming cluttered. He opted to keep his plush, deep-seated Blu Dot sofa from his previous studio, valuing its armless design for its minimal visual impact and its versatility. The sofa's ability to fit on various walls is crucial for Moore, who treats his space as a laboratory for constant re-arrangement. Similarly, he incorporated easy-to-lift slipper chairs, inspired by a design shoot, which are covered in a graphic Schumacher fabric that appears solid from a distance. A key feature that attracted Moore to the apartment was the natural wood wainscoting. However, the wainscoting did not fully encircle the room due to the building's conversion from a single-family home. To create a cohesive look, Moore extended the visual delineation by painting the missing sections black, effectively unifying the space. This dark paint also serves to create the illusion of a headboard behind his unique house-shaped canopy bed, a piece his uncle welded in the 1980s. Despite the bed frame being slightly mismatched for his mattress and held together by boat straps, Moore has devised solutions to ensure its stability. Moore's apartment also features several pieces acquired through the kindness of others. For instance, bookshelves found in a family member's barn were transported from Oklahoma to New York by his former roommate's stepfather as a gesture of gratitude for Moore's help in decorating her apartment. To compensate for the lack of closets, Moore found two black Italian dressers and a large vintage armoire on Facebook Marketplace. Another Facebook Marketplace discovery was a black wall sculpture for the dining area. During the purchase, Moore connected with Hugo Vicente, brand director at ASH NYC, who encouraged the acquisition. The lightweight sculpture is mounted with magnets. The IKEA dining table, initially painted vermilion, created an unwanted red glow in the apartment when hit by sunlight, leading Moore to repaint it a light pink shade that he has come to appreciate. These experiences have taught him that most spontaneous decisions turn out well, and any that don't are easily remedied, reflecting a flexible and adaptive approach to home decoration. #HarlemStudio #SmallSpaceLiving #ApartmentTour #DesignEditor #Wainscoting #FurnitureSourcing #DIYDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor

The growing trend of integrating bookshelves into kitchen designs, dubbed 'kitchen libraries,' is explored as a novel way to infuse character and personality into domestic spaces. This trend aligns with a broader shift towards making kitchens more livable and decorative, moving beyond purely functional roles. Kitchen libraries offer opportunities for personalization, enabling homeowners to display cookbooks, create cohesion in open-plan areas, or simply add an unexpected design element. Five distinct approaches to incorporating bookshelves into kitchens are highlighted. The first method emphasizes utilizing vertical space, particularly above eye-level cabinetry or windows, to maximize storage without encroaching on essential counter space. Interior designer Benji Lewis illustrates this by placing shelving above a kitchen window, demonstrating how such a setup can add charm and a personal touch with books or decorative items. The second idea involves building bookshelves directly into a kitchen island. This strategy leverages existing structures in larger kitchens, creating a playful and accessible display for recipe books and other reading material. This integration not only adds visual interest but also encourages more social interaction and engagement within the kitchen area. A third option suggests installing floor-to-ceiling bookshelves adjacent to kitchen cabinetry in open-plan living spaces. This design choice helps to visually soften the rigid lines of kitchen units and create a more unified aesthetic between the cooking and living zones. Curating these larger shelves with a mix of books and decorative objects allows for both aesthetic appeal and practical storage for culinary literature. The fourth approach creatively utilizes often overlooked areas, such as the space surrounding a kitchen door, to install bookshelves. This unexpected placement can transform an architectural feature into a conversation starter and a functional storage solution. One example shows bookshelves framing a doorway and seamlessly transitioning into a cozy bench seat, providing a comfortable spot for reading. Finally, the article discusses integrating book storage into existing kitchen built-ins. Instead of separate units, books can be interspersed with kitchenware on open shelves, blending the two functions. This method, exemplified by wall units combining closed and open storage, demonstrates how books can contribute to a personalized and functional kitchen, encouraging the use of the space for both cooking and relaxation. Overall, the article advocates for thoughtful design that combines beloved objects with practical storage to create unique and inviting kitchen environments. #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Bookshelves #KitchenStorage #OpenPlanLiving #KitchenTrends #HomePersonalization #BuiltInFurniture

This article details the comprehensive remodel of a mid-century modern home in Chevy Chase, MD, focusing specifically on the kitchen and a lower-level bathroom, which were the final phases of a whole-house renovation led by Jim Rill and his team at Rill Architects, with Anamargarita Baasch of Baasch Gallegos Architects serving as project architect. The primary objective of the renovation was to uphold the home’s original mid-century modern architectural integrity while introducing a clean, sophisticated, and moody aesthetic that elevates the spaces to a form of art. Unlike the typically bright and multi-colored mid-century modern designs, this project aimed for a calm and refined look, emphasizing functionality and sleekness. The kitchen's design centers around custom cabinetry from Danish Builders, painted in Farrow & Ball’s classic gray/brown 'Mouse’s Back', a shade that subtly shifts towards green depending on the light. The cabinetry features touch-latch, slab-style doors and drawers, devoid of visible hardware to maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance. This handleless design extends to the refrigerator and freezer panels, ensuring that Miele appliances seamlessly integrate into the storage units, thereby concealing their identity. Open shelving, both in the island and floating wall units, are painted in the same hue, providing both display space and practical storage for the clients who value neatness and order. Countertop selections contribute significantly to the kitchen's moody theme. The perimeter countertops are made of quartz, while the island features a dynamic mix of quartz and wood. The island's quartz section incorporates a waterfall edge, highlighting the delicate veining of the engineered material. The integration of different materials in the island, particularly the wood, was a deliberate choice to add warmth, create areas of distinction, and make the island a playful focal point. The wood portion defines the seating area, providing a casual spot for meals or coffee. The existing wood floor is complemented by Architessa’s Attitude Calm Brown 12″x24″ porcelain tile in a high-traffic area between the Miele range and the island, selected for its durability and to introduce a different scale to the flooring. Large-format porcelain tiles are also utilized as backsplashes; Architessa’s Industry Ash tile with a honed finish extends from the countertop to the ceiling behind the Zephyr ventilation hood, offering a contemporary flair with its fabric-like texture and horizontal straight stack pattern. Architessa’s Prima Warm White unglazed tile brightens the backsplash behind floating shelves and between the Miele wall and steam ovens, connecting visually with the ceiling's wood beams and LED flush-mount lighting from Kuzco, which were chosen for their architectural quality over traditional recessed lights. To enhance the kitchen's functionality, a small walk-in pantry was created behind the cooking wall. This area was formerly a powder room and a combination laundry room/closet/hallway connecting to the garage. The renovated space now includes the pantry, a mudroom, and a laundry room, all accessible from the garage. The pantry is crucial for storing small appliances and dry goods, offering open shelves and pull-out drawers within cabinetry painted in Farrow & Ball’s Salon Drab with stained wood interiors, and features Reliance Quartz’s Bellini quartz as a worktop. The lower-level bathroom underwent a transformation into a spa-like retreat, designed as a Zen space for relaxation after workouts. It services a gym, recreation room, and bedroom. The bathroom boasts a soothing color palette, a wet room with a Kohler steam shower, Hansgrohe showerheads, and a Dado freestanding matte black tub. TileBar’s Brando porcelain tile adds an artistic element, serving as a subtle and elegant accent. Architessa’s 3.5″x12″ glossy glass tile in a Lagoon colorway is horizontally stacked from floor to ceiling behind a custom floating Trueform concrete ramp sink, reinforcing the moody ambiance. The renovation successfully blends modern design with the home's mid-century roots, creating functional, sophisticated, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. #KitchenRemodel #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CustomCabinetry #SpaBathroom #TileDesign #ArchitecturalLighting #MoodyInteriors

This article details a comprehensive whole-house remodel of a Mediterranean-style home in Danville, California, built in the early 2000s. The objective of the renovation, undertaken by interior designer Nicole Salceda and her firm Eye for Pretty, was to transform the existing structure into a bright, comfortable, and transitional family living space. The project involved updating every surface, including flooring, walls, cabinets, and paint, over six months, during the initial phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, which required careful management of crews and restrictions. The clients provided minimal input, allowing the design team significant freedom to execute their vision. The remodel began by addressing the entry, where a wide hallway with a sweeping curved staircase was transformed. New hardwood flooring and a minimal staircase balustrade were installed, alongside a gallery wall on the upstairs landing. This open hallway now connects directly to the new kitchen, creating a central hub for the home. The existing builder-grade finishes were replaced to achieve a more bespoke and comfortable aesthetic suitable for a young family. The kitchen underwent a significant upgrade, focusing on both beauty and functionality. Key features include gray perimeter cabinetry, a soapstone counter and backsplash, including a soapstone sink, and a white oak island with open shelving. Integrated appliances and a Calacatta quartz island top were incorporated, complemented by cognac leather counter stools. The design aims to provide a comfortable and practical space for the family. An open-concept living area was created, encompassing an informal dining space and a family room. The dining area features a rustic, pale wood table with a smart white top, echoing the kitchen's soapstone counters, paired with rush-seated dining chairs. The family room emphasizes functionality and a streamlined design, aiming for a cozy, organic, and comfortable environment. It includes a luxurious sectional sofa in a soft off-white shade, adorned with pastel pillows, and a window seat for additional seating during gatherings. A black console table visually separates the seating and dining areas within the open-plan layout, enhancing organization. A pale wood coffee table further integrates the natural elements present throughout the adjacent dining area and kitchen. The sectional sofa's configuration helps define a more intimate zone within the larger open space. For more formal occasions, a dedicated dining room is strategically tucked into a corner of the remodeled open-plan living area. This space features a sophisticated scheme with a dark wood round table that can be extended for larger parties. Textural artworks are displayed in a gallery arrangement, and a contemporary Roxy Chandelier serves as a prominent focal point. Additionally, a formal living room offers a retreat from the main family activities. This snug area maintains a sophisticated aesthetic, featuring a vintage-look sofa and armchairs upholstered in a windowpane check pattern. A Montauk black stripe rug from Eye for Pretty ties the room's elements together. The primary bedroom was designed with a focus on luxury and tranquility. A contemporary four-poster bed provides structure without overwhelming the space, contributing to a calm and neutral environment ideal for rest. A seascape painting is neatly integrated into the bedframe, creating a 'frame within a frame' effect. The bathroom received a luxurious update, featuring marble finishes on both the walls and counters. A freestanding tub with gray-blue sides is positioned under a window, and an intricately tessellated tiled floor adds visual interest to the space. Overall, the remodel successfully transformed the home into a series of inspiring and comfortable living spaces. #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaHomes #OpenPlanLiving #TransitionalStyle #KitchenDesign #LuxuryLiving #FamilyHome #NeutralPalette

This blog post explores a unique approach to apartment living in New York City, focusing on the unconventional layout where the entrance hall and kitchen are combined. The author, a decorator, initially found this concept peculiar, particularly coming from London where such layouts are less common. She recounts her experience searching for an apartment and eventually moving into a space that integrated the kitchen into the entryway, a layout she initially considered 'bizarre' and 'out of the question.' Drawing inspiration from the idea that kitchens in country houses often serve as welcoming, central hubs, and noting that parties frequently gravitate towards the kitchen, the author began to see the potential in this combined space. Her previous kitchen was extremely small, making the prospect of a more functional, larger kitchen appealing. She decided to treat this combined area not just as a kitchen but as a fully realized room, an idea influenced by Elsie de Wolfe, who often repurposed entrance halls as dining rooms, viewing dining rooms as 'depressing' and halls as 'a waste of good space.' The author advocates for incorporating proper furniture, artwork, and lighting into kitchens, treating them with the same decorative consideration as any other room. She details how she transformed her entrance-kitchen space: a high stone-topped console table, previously in her living room, was placed opposite the kitchen cabinets, holding cookbooks, a toaster, and an espresso machine. To add a touch of cheer, she brought in bright pink silk chrysanthemums, which had been unused in her previous apartment, placing them prominently on the kitchen counter. A few months into living there, she recognized the need for a bookcase, which was provided by a friend. She emphasizes the transformative power of books in a room, suggesting that even in an entrance hall without a kitchen, a bookcase can significantly enhance the ambiance. She concludes by contrasting the initial grim thought of being greeted by a kitchen sink upon arrival with the reality of walking into a vibrant space filled with cooking essentials, books, flowers, and a lamp-lit table, offering a welcoming view into the living room. The author encourages readers to view their kitchens stylistically, turning them into rooms with 'a pulse' rather than mere collections of appliances, regardless of their standard or often uninspiring New York origins. #ApartmentLiving #KitchenDesign #EntranceHall #InteriorDecorating #HomeStyling #SmallSpaceDesign #NewYorkApartments #FunctionalDesign