Designing a contemporary prairie home rooted in place

In a society increasingly saturated with technology, a growing number of individuals are seeking refuge in architectural and interior design styles that prioritize natural elements and comfort, while simultaneously embracing modernity and functionality. Prairie style homes exemplify this approach within the American architectural landscape. This article delves into the origins and characteristics of this distinctive style, exploring its continued influence on contemporary design and offering practical advice for decorating such spaces. Prairie style, a design and architectural movement, is defined by its strong horizontal emphasis, open layouts, and a profound connection to nature. Experts describe it as an enduring favorite for those who value both elegance and integration with the natural world. This architectural style emerged as a response to the American landscape, particularly the wide, open expanses of the Midwest, and stands in contrast to the classical traditions prevalent at the time. It is considered a uniquely American architectural expression. The genesis of the Prairie style is largely attributed to Frank Lloyd Wright, a prominent architect whose career coincided with the decline of the Victorian design era. During this period, American design began to diverge from its European classical roots, exploring new styles that harmonized with the local environment. Hints of this style began appearing around 1900 to 1910, with _The Ladies Home Journal_, a Chicago-published magazine, playing a role in its promotion by featuring Wright's designs as exemplary models. The Prairie style consequently evolved from these early influences and publications. The defining characteristics of Prairie style homes include their open floor plans and the prominent use of horizontal lines, which create a sense of spaciousness and effortless flow. These homes are further recognized by their low-pitched roofs, extended eaves, and the incorporation of natural materials such as wood and stone. These elements work in concert to seamlessly blend the structures with their surrounding environments. Frank Lloyd Wright's 'Winslow House' is often cited as one of the earliest examples, offering valuable insight into the style's foundational principles. The core principles of Prairie style continue to resonate within American architectural thinking today. Many modern homes incorporate key elements pioneered by this style, often combining them with other contemporary design trends. The Prairie style introduced new forms and shapes that paved the way for later architectural developments in the 20th century. For instance, post-World War II architecture, while utilizing different materials like steel and glass, often drew directly from Prairie-style concepts. Even today, Wright's influence is discernible in many designs, with elements inspired by his work appearing in projects that don't fully embrace the entire Prairie aesthetic. However, some elements of the original Prairie style have diminished over time. Handcrafted elements, a distinct feature of early Prairie homes, have become less common in modern design due to industrialization and evolving societal contexts. The shift in architectural paradigms was further influenced by events like the relocation of Bauhaus teachers, such as Walter Gropius, to the United States in the 1930s. This introduced a European modernist architectural approach that prompted Wright to adapt his own style, leading to a reduction in decorative, Arts and Crafts techniques in favor of more industrial appearances, characterized by metal frames, steel structures, and cement rendering. This evolution was particularly evident in California during the 1950s and '60s, promoted by publications like _Arts and Architecture_. Decorating a Prairie-style home involves integrating earthy paint colors and organic materials like wood, stone, and leather, which align with the architectural visual language. Incorporating abundant greenery and large windows helps connect the interior with the outdoors. Emphasizing horizontal lines through low-profile furniture and layered rugs creates a grounded and cohesive look. Geometric patterns, visible in textiles or stained glass, can further reflect the home's architectural details. Built-in or minimalist furnishings are recommended to maintain a clean and open aesthetic. The distinction between Prairie-style and Craftsman homes lies primarily in their overall shapes and layouts. Prairie homes are characterized by horizontal lines, low-pitched roofs, and a harmonious relationship with the landscape. In contrast, Craftsman homes feature vertical lines, steeper roofs, and exposed structures. While Prairie style promotes open layouts, Craftsman homes typically offer cozier, more compartmentalized spaces with rich woodwork and detailed trim. These seemingly minor differences significantly impact interiors, influencing how architecture interacts with the landscape. Craftsman homes, despite their timber facades, tend to stand out against nature, whereas Prairie style homes are designed to blend in. The open layout of Prairie-style homes also fundamentally alters the experience of light, sound, and heat, leading to distinct ambiences, reverberation patterns, and ventilation characteristics compared to Craftsman designs. #PrairieStyle #ArchitecturalHistory #FrankLloydWright #ModernHomes #InteriorDesign #NaturalMaterials #OpenLayouts #HomeDecor #CraftsmanHomes

Baldridge Architects, an Austin-based studio, completed the Roam Ranch project, a 4,362-square-foot single-family home situated on a working ranch outside Fredericksburg, Texas. This project merges modern architectural principles with the aesthetic of Central Texas. The clients, who had previously collaborated with Baldridge Architects on an urban dwelling in Austin, sought a rural escape to establish a new home on their 'Force of Nature' ranch. This ranch is dedicated to sustainable bison and turkey agriculture, necessitating a design that also accommodates business activities such as podcast recording and educational event hosting. The design process involved integrating two existing structures—a kitchen and dining area, and a separate bedroom volume—into the new development while ensuring a cohesive final product. The architects opted for corrugated polycarbonate roofing, consistent with the existing structures, for the entryway and carport. This material choice allows natural light to penetrate the adjoining rooms and unifies the various components of the expansive residence. The complete structure thoughtfully reinterprets the traditional Central Texas 'dog-trot' house, characterized by a central open breezeway connecting two enclosed sections. The comprehensive design incorporates multiple functional areas under a single roof, including additional bedrooms, a carport, a kitchen, office spaces, a great room, and a gym. A critical aspect of the project involved designing the new construction in a manner that allowed the clients, including a newborn, to continue residing in the existing structures without interruption. This logistical challenge was meticulously addressed, resulting in a design that conceals the complexities of its construction process behind a polished and functional facade. Subtle yet significant design details are evident throughout the home, such as a raw stone hearth seamlessly integrated with the floor and a flitch beam and steel structure providing robust support for the compound's cantilevered sections. These elements showcase the firm's attention to both aesthetics and structural integrity. The project team included Burton Baldridge as project architect, Brian Bedrosian as project manager, and Drew McMillian as senior designer. Duecker Construction Company served as the builder, and Dennis Duffy Engineering provided structural engineering expertise. The landscape architecture was pre-existing, handled by Campbell Landscape Architecture. Roam Ranch stands as an example of architecture that respects its rural context while embracing contemporary living and business needs. The home’s design reflects a deep understanding of its environment and the clients' unique lifestyle, blending a working ranch's demands with modern comforts and sustainable practices. The successful integration of existing structures with new additions, coupled with a practical approach to construction logistics, underscores the project's innovative and thoughtful execution. #ResidentialArchitecture #ModernHomeDesign #TexasHillCountry #SustainableAgriculture #BaldridgeArchitects #RuralLiving #ContemporaryDesign #IntegratedStructures #DogTrotHouse

The article presents a curated collection of 20 modern country houses, emphasizing their diverse approaches to achieving rest and relaxation through design. These homes, characterized by rustic charm, natural light, indoor-outdoor living, and exposed wood beams, blend traditional accents with contemporary aesthetics. The selection highlights various architectural styles and regional influences, ranging from a transformed English-style manor in Connecticut to a Brazilian modular home nestled in nature, and a minimalist guesthouse in Sonoma Valley, California. Each featured property showcases unique design solutions tailored to its environment and the homeowners' preferences. Key examples include a Connecticut manor updated by Sanchez+Coleman Studio with a sophisticated black, white, and green palette, and a Brittany-style château in Westchester, New York, renovated by Amy Courtney Design to incorporate Japandi aesthetics and Scandinavian minimalism while preserving its 1930s craftsmanship. Rodrigo Ohtake's Brazilian modular home demonstrates an innovative use of steel prisms arranged around a central open-plan living space, connecting seamlessly with the surrounding forest. In Aspen, Rowland+Broughton reimagined a 1990s stone-and-glass retreat, enhancing views and integrating contemporary furnishings with existing oak millwork. Studio Arthur Casas designed a recreational complex for a horse farm in Brazil, featuring indoor and outdoor spaces for entertainment and accommodation, while Olson Kundig and Erica Colpitts Interior Design transformed a mid-century home in North Vancouver, British Columbia, drawing inspiration from the peaceful landscape and British aesthetic. Further explorations include Richard Shemtov’s Southampton retreat designed by Sawyer|Berson, modeled after traditional gable-roof barns with a rigorously pared-down style. Amalia Graziani's Hudson Valley farm restoration honors the property's past, focusing on preserving its natural beauty. In Jackson, Wyoming, Messana O’Rorke and Ankeny Architecture and Design created a mountain retreat blending the American West's past and present through stained cedar and stone volumes connected by glass-enclosed bridges. Aidlin Darling Design crafted a single-story modern country house with hilltop views in Northern California, prioritizing efficiency and accessibility. Other notable designs include Jan Henrik Jansen's unconventional round house in Denmark, SPG Architects' modern update of a Cape Cod residence, and Andreas Martin-Löf's playful weekend home near Stockholm featuring an infinity pool as a reflective element. The compilation also showcases a Michigan lake house by Desai Chia Architecture, noted for its glassy pavilion design that interacts with a cherry orchard and a bluff. Atelier Carvalho Araújo's minimalist yet rustic home in Portugal effectively masters a tricky site with a meandering stream. Nathanael Dorent and Lily Jencks conceived a stone-clad modern rustic country house in Scotland, known for its unexpected design. Nani Marquina's Costa Brava retreat serves as a collector’s paradise, with a whitewashed simplicity providing a backdrop for various collected ephemera. Architect Mathias Klotz designed a pair of cottages in Chile, characterized by clean-lined modernism and archetypal forms. Mork Ulnes Architects and Office of Charles de Lisle created a minimalist guesthouse in Sonoma Valley, California, comprising three stepped volumes. Finally, Hawk & Co., in collaboration with Brandon Architects, designed an indoor-outdoor oasis along the California Coast, blending rustic charm with industrial edge and naturalistic materials. The article provides a comprehensive overview of how modern country houses leverage design to offer tranquil and inspiring escapes. #ModernCountryHouses #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #RusticCharm #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #WeekendRetreats #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation

This article highlights a 6,810-square-foot, two-story residence in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, designed and built by Michael Paul Design + Build, specifically for an active family of five. The project, overseen by CEO/owner Michael Laumann, prominently featured the contributions of Natalie Talley from Talley Jane Interiors and Maggie Tarr from Margaret Jane Design Group, emphasizing a collaborative and 'girl power' driven effort. The home's design successfully blends "Midwest modern" aesthetics with functionality and entertainment, catering to the family's dynamic lifestyle. The residence boasts extensive recreational amenities, including a two-level sport court, an outdoor pool, an exercise room, an indoor faux hockey rink, and a 21-foot rock climbing wall, alongside a family bonus room for movies and a dedicated craft area for children. The interior design emphasizes durability and practicality, incorporating performance fabrics in various colors, leather upholstery to prevent staining, and vinyl wall coverings, selected for their resilience against the wear and tear of an active household. Talley Jane Interiors was chosen by the homeowners after their positive impression of her work on the 2019 Luxury Home Tour. The aesthetic of the home is characterized by a "Midwest modern" style, achieved through the integration of rustic-style beams and columns, and a selection of natural materials. Key material choices include Italian marble, a walnut-clad refrigerator, and dark-wash wood floors. The home also features custom oak, walnut, and painted cabinets and built-ins, complemented by a sophisticated color palette of grays ranging from jet black to taupe. This approach aims for an earthy look without being overtly rustic, creating a refined yet natural atmosphere. Notable architectural and design features include a modern floating staircase at the front of the home, a generously sized 'chef-inspired' back pantry, and breathtaking views of the Minnesota River Valley, particularly from the master bedroom and the entire second level. Michael Laumann emphasized the prime location of the lot, describing it as one of the top ten in the metro area, with the design goal of maximizing these views. The project successfully met the clients' objectives, providing a home that offers comfort, refuge, and ample opportunities for family activities and memory-making, such as impromptu hockey matches. The house details include five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a blend of rustic and modern design elements. #HomeDesign #MidwestModern #LuxuryHome #FamilyFriendlyDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CustomBuild #EdenPrairie #RecreationalAmenities

The article details the creation of Whimsy Valley, the Western North Carolina mountain retreat of photographer and historic preservationist Perry Vaile. Vaile and her husband embarked on a long journey to find and build their dream mountain home, ultimately settling on a property near Burnsville after a previous attempt in Chimney Rock was thwarted by a landslide specialist's warning, which proved prescient when the property was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. This experience highlighted the importance of thorough environmental assessments before purchasing land for construction. With the new property, Vaile collaborated with local contractor Chris Jarrett over two years to construct a home that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Her background in historic preservation influenced the architectural choices, such as incorporating bark siding as a nod to late 1800s architect Henry Bacon, who popularized this style in Linville, North Carolina. This design decision aimed to give the new build vernacular sensitivity and integrate it respectfully into the region's architectural history. The interior design reflects Vaile's photography career, lending her an eye for creating visually compelling spaces. She combined antique pieces, diverse patterns, and a carefully curated color palette to achieve a timeless yet whimsical atmosphere. The living room features vaulted ceilings, providing a sense of grandeur and allowing for the inclusion of a stained-glass window sourced from a decommissioned church, which casts magical light when illuminated by the south-facing sun. The kitchen is designed to evoke warmth and character, channeling an "eccentric grandma" aesthetic. A William Morris patterned backsplash complements soft blue cupboards, adding texture and personality to the space. The master bedroom is built around a blue patterned wallpaper, inspired by an inn Vaile photographed, and features antique doors from an architectural salvage center in New Orleans. For her daughters' bedroom, Vaile aimed for a playful yet chic English bed and breakfast feel, incorporating gingham curtains and wallpaper from House of Hackney, with wood paneling completed by Vaile and her husband. Outdoor elements were also carefully considered. Vaile, who always desired to live near water, created an artificial stream that mimics natural rock formations and winds through the yard, providing a soothing soundscape and a scenic place to relax. The master bathroom features a copper tub as a focal point and an antique dresser with a marble countertop and stone sink, a resourceful find from Facebook Marketplace. The home also includes a wraparound deck equipped with rocking chairs, designed to offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The property is further enlivened by six miniature ponies, which roam the grounds, adding to the idyllic, storybook ambiance of Whimsy Valley, where Vaile's mother also resides in a nearby cabin, fostering a nostalgic, close-knit family environment. #MountainRetreat #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #WesternNorthCarolina #WhimsyValley #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHome #OutdoorLiving

Modern country style has emerged as a favored aesthetic, resonating with a broad audience seeking comfort and tradition in their homes, especially in the post-pandemic era. This design philosophy emphasizes traditional furniture forms crafted from robust, unpretentious materials, presenting an uncluttered and unassuming visual appeal. The style's focus on natural textures contributes to a sense of warmth and wholesomeness, offering a soothing antidote to contemporary anxieties. Lucy Uren, co-founder of Rowen & Wren, has championed this style for a decade, defining it by timeless, linear shapes and natural, slightly weathered materials. Her recent designs, influenced by her move to a 17th-century thatched cottage with a modern extension in rural Hampshire, demonstrate how classic and contemporary elements can be harmoniously integrated. This integration involves updating older forms with new finishes, ensuring they complement diverse architectural styles within a single home. Rowen & Wren's recent outdoor collection, featuring tactile materials like rusted iron and hand-woven rattan, exemplifies this philosophy, designed to blend seamlessly with natural environments and appreciate over time, much like the cherished character of aged terracotta pots. The modern country aesthetic incorporates specific elements such as dressers, cupboards, and open shelving that promote a sense of openness and accessibility. Cosy armchairs draped in loose linen covers and old-fashioned bedsteads, often high enough to accommodate storage beneath, contribute to the style's inviting and practical nature. The use of plain linen cushions and knitted throws enhances the tactile experience, while seasonal additions like gingham patterns on tablecloths, curtains, or bed linen introduce a touch of playful charm. These elements collectively create an interior that feels lived-in and comfortable. Timber, particularly oak, is a cornerstone material in modern country design, celebrated for its visual beauty, distinctive grain, and warm color. George Miller, a home designer at Neptune, highlights oak's heritage and its connection to British furniture-making traditions, noting its nostalgic appeal. The post-lockdown period has heightened a yearning for familiarity, prompting many to seek furniture that evokes memories of family heirlooms or ancestral homes. Neptune's Wycombe dining chair, crafted from unstained oak with a rush seat, exemplifies this trend, offering a blend of traditional craftsmanship and enduring design. More affordable alternatives, such as spindle-back chairs from John Lewis and Habitat, make this timeless style accessible to a wider audience. Modern country designs frequently feature traditional shapes reinterpreted in contemporary colors. Neptune, for instance, updates its painted kitchens with a spring/summer 2021 palette of burnt sienna and flax blue. Conversely, designer Jack Trench employs a traditional material palette to create sleek, modern designs, as seen in a barn conversion where a ceiling-high divider of tongue-and-groove paneled weathered oak separates living areas. This intervention, while aesthetically modern with its graphic forms and geometric shapes, respectfully integrates with the historic building's materials, such as the original oak rafters. This thoughtful approach ensures that contemporary elements gain a timeless quality, embodying the comforting and enduring appeal that defines modern country style. #ModernCountryStyle #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureTrends #NaturalMaterials #TimelessDesign #PostPandemicTrends #RuralLiving #DesignPhilosophy

This article details the design and aesthetic choices made for a private hunting lodge located in rural Louisiana, north of Baton Rouge. The project involved a collaboration between Baton Rouge-based architect Mark Matthews, design consultant Allyson Hicks of Allyson Hicks Design Consulting, and contractors Ryan Crum and Noah Wilson of Waterfront Custom Homes. The primary goal was to create a retreat that functions both as a family getaway and a hunting destination for friends, blending rustic elements with a refined, timeless appeal. The lodge is designed for large groups, featuring a main living area with a vaulted ceiling and antique beams, a casual dining space, and a kitchen accessible through an arched brick opening. In addition to a large primary bedroom, there are four guestrooms and a bunkroom equipped with four twin beds. Each guestroom boasts a unique design, avoiding the uniformity of a hotel, while the overall layout allows for flexible separation of family and guests. Public areas prioritize both entertainment and practicality, including a game room, a bar, an open-concept living and dining area, and a fully appointed outdoor kitchen. A large mudroom provides private, lockable closets for guests to store gear, and a separate drop zone is designated for hunters to shed muddy attire. The exterior features a lakefront area with deep porches, a putting green, and a firepit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. Allyson Hicks faced the challenge of incorporating design elements that reflect Louisiana's heritage and the lodge's purpose without resorting to a typical casual hunting camp aesthetic. The homeowner's preferences, such as a fondness for gray and a dislike for gold, guided the color palette and material selection. Gray tones were used on walls and trim, and metal finishes like polished nickel, gunmetal, and black iron were chosen. Louisiana-specific elements, such as exposed beams and old brick, were integrated into the design. A key aspect of the design involved balancing rustic and contemporary styles to ensure a current yet timeless look. Hicks achieved this by mixing worn, vintage-looking pieces with more streamlined furniture. Antique woods were a prominent feature, with weathered shiplap used for the outdoor kitchen ceiling, antique beadboard for accent walls, and antique doors complementing new stained alder wood doors. The bunkroom, designed for younger guests, incorporates remnants from the lodge’s wood beams and flooring for stair treads and upper-bunk railings, alongside shiplap walls and built-in storage. The refined-meets-rustic aesthetic extended to the use of galvanized metal, mirroring the lodge's roof indoors. Artisan Josh Guillory created a custom galvanized metal range hood for the kitchen, and light fixtures with a similar matte metal appearance were selected for the bar area. The kitchen also features oversized nickel handles on drawers and cabinets to introduce a masculine touch, alongside Mont Blanc quartzite countertops and a textured Milas white marble tile backsplash with chiseled edges. Lighting was thoughtfully curated to combine streamlined fixtures with cruder pieces that fit the rural environment, ensuring the lodge serves as a comfortable and inviting haven throughout the year. #HuntingLodge #RuralRetreat #InteriorDesign #LouisianaDesign #RusticChic #FamilyGetaway #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHomes #TimelessDesign

Angus Reid Projects undertook its inaugural countryside design project, a farmhouse with a deceptively historical appearance. Although its exterior, featuring weathered brick, centuries-old beams, and timeworn flagstones, suggests Tudor origins, the house was constructed only two decades ago. This design approach, replicating historical homes with meticulous detail, offers a unique blend of reclaimed materials and modern amenities, such as underfloor heating. The clients, a young Anglo-Swedish couple, desired a cozy home that could accommodate informal entertaining and their two dogs, emphasizing comfort and practicality. This led to the selection of durable materials, including linen slipcovers for sofas and hogla plant fiber matting for rugs, which are forgiving of spills. The interior design by Angus Reid, known for his serene and considered aesthetic, aimed to balance the home's rustic shell with contemporary, pared-back interiors inspired by mid-century design principles. This project marked a departure from the studio's usual urban focus, offering more expansive spaces and incorporating botanical prints, albeit in a non-traditional manner. The design process began with understanding the owners' lifestyle to tailor the spaces to their needs. Key elements included creating generous, comfortable areas centered around fireplaces. Furniture was chosen to match the large proportions of the rooms, exemplified by an antique French farmhouse dining table and a substantial kitchen island. Bespoke bar stools were designed, combining leather seats with tactile hessian backs. The designer's commitment to incorporating texture is evident throughout the home, from a handcrafted plaster pendant light to an antique Delft tile splashback in the kitchen. The color palette primarily consists of chalky whites, mushroom grays, and deeper tobacco and khaki hues, providing a neutral yet warm backdrop that complements carefully curated antique and mid-century pieces. Sourcing antiques for this project broadened the studio's design scope beyond its typical mid-20th-century focus, introducing items like a 19th-century pedestal card table paired with 1930s rope chairs and a rare Louis Poulsen pendant. Pattern is introduced subtly through a leafy wallpaper in the cloakroom, depicting an oak canopy, and arresting block-printed fabrics on the generously sized headboards in the bedrooms, which were chosen to complement the vaulted ceilings. The overall effect is an uncluttered, calm environment where selected pieces can truly stand out, demonstrating that a soulful design style can beautifully bridge the gap between country and urban aesthetics. #HouseDesign #FarmhouseStyle #CountryInteriors #ContemporaryDesign #MidCenturyModern #InteriorDesign #AngusReidProjects #HomeRenovation #RusticModern

Emma Sims Hilditch, a renowned interior designer, specializes in blending rural luxury with urban sleekness, a style she terms 'rurban.' Her firm handles a diverse range of projects, from city and beach houses to country estates and cottages, consistently aiming to integrate function and form. Sims Hilditch emphasizes meticulous attention to detail, considering interior architecture as vital as decoration, focusing on practical elements like shower head height or device charging stations alongside wall colors and fabric layers. Sims Hilditch finds restoring listed or historic buildings particularly rewarding, highlighting a 15th-century Dorset manor house project where interiors were modernized for contemporary family living. Space planning is crucial in these older homes, which were not originally designed for modern usage patterns. A key achievement in this project was creating an open-plan living-kitchen-dining area suitable for a large family. In collaboration with Neptune, her husband's interiors company, Sims Hilditch developed a paint range designed to complement both contemporary and traditional homes. The collection features muted yet fresh blues and greens, specifically chosen to suit the British climate. Sims Hilditch draws significant inspiration from European travel, particularly Italy, admiring its diverse design from Venetian Palladian buildings to Tuscan farmhouses. She also appreciates the design philosophies of hotel designers like Olga Polizzi and American designers such as Amber Interiors and Bungalow Classic, as well as various fabric companies. Her design process always begins with the property's intrinsic characteristics—its architecture, context, and history. The design must also align with the client's lifestyle and needs, necessitating a thorough understanding of how each room will be utilized. For smaller spaces, she recommends utilizing vertical height with floating shelves instead of wall units to enhance openness and functionality. In large, open-plan areas, she advises creating distinct zones for different activities like cooking, eating, and relaxing, and embraces asymmetry for a more dynamic feel. Organization is a core principle, leading to the design of bespoke fitted joinery that dramatically impacts a room, especially when painted in contrasting colors. Sims Hilditch particularly values functional spaces like boot rooms, designing solutions such as individual baskets and hooks for a client with nine children to keep belongings organized. When it comes to kitchens, she stresses investing in well-made, solid timber cabinetry for durability and longevity, as these can be repainted and have hardware changed for a fresh look. For appliances, she notes that integrated units do not need to be top-of-the-range. Limestone is a preferred flooring choice for its durability and ease of maintenance, and for worktops, natural stone is favored, though independent stonemasons can provide more affordable quartz options. The approach to color schemes is artistic, drawing inspiration from art and nature to create harmonious palettes that complement the home's exterior and interior narrative. While there are no strict rules for color, greens and off-whites are recommended for kitchens to align with natural ingredients. Sims Hilditch often encourages clients to incorporate oversized elements, like large lanterns over a kitchen island, to add drama. Mixing prints, combining small scales with larger block prints, is also a favored technique, as demonstrated in her collaboration with GP & J Baker. The firm blends antiques and rustic pieces with bespoke furniture for both city and country properties, with country homes often featuring more defining, strong pieces, while city properties allow for a more edgy, contemporary aesthetic. Strategic investment in lighting, well-made furniture, and artwork is advised, with emphasis on furnishing living spaces and bedrooms first. Sims Hilditch underscores the importance of varied lighting, combining ambient and feature lighting, and considering room orientation due to natural light's impact on color. She warns against a single light source and advocates for professional lighting designers to avoid costly errors. #InteriorDesign #CountryStyle #RurbanAesthetic #HistoricRenovation #SpacePlanning #BespokeJoinery #KitchenDesign #ColorSchemes #LightingDesign

This article details the architectural design and construction of a modern, modest home on Elliott Island, Maryland, which received the 2020 Editor's Choice Award. The project, conceived as a weekend retreat for a family to spend time with the client's father, aimed to blend a rustic feel with contemporary design, harmonizing with the remote, fishing-shack-dominated community. David D. Quillin Architecture spearheaded the design, emphasizing measured proportions, a gentle aesthetic, and clean detailing. The home features an open floor plan designed to foster relaxed socializing, with common spaces oriented towards water views. A kitchen island and a stair cabinet effectively divide the main volume into distinct zones for different activities, accommodating both adults and children. The selection of Andy Bukovsky, a local master cabinetmaker but first-time general contractor, and Jerry Keith, the client's father who uses a wheelchair, as construction manager, influenced the design to incorporate accessibility from the outset. This collaborative effort underscored a shared commitment to unity and functionality within the home. Structural considerations were critical due to the home's waterfront location. Given that windows are concentrated on the rear side facing strong northwest winds, engineers recommended steel framing. The builder ingeniously addressed the challenge of integrating Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with steel by welding bolts to beams and then bolting 2x lumber to them. A steel beam in the roof plate was designed to bear on a metal post, stopping short of the exterior wall, to avoid penetrating the SIPs. The at-grade positioning of the floor, combined with extensive glazing, creates a sensation of being directly on the beach, even when indoors. The master suite is spatially separated from the main house by a glass bridge, offering privacy and a treehouse-like retreat. This separation also subtly alludes to the historical evolution of island properties, which often develop as a collection of distinct structures. Pilings were used for the master suite's foundation where the topography sloped away and to protect the roots of nearby pine trees, also allowing natural runoff to flow beneath, creating a visible stream from the bedroom. In contrast, the main house is firmly rooted with a slab-on-grade foundation. The central living space, with its concentrated glazing on the north side, maximizes water views and features a creative play area for children, promoting a "loose and organic" atmosphere for family interaction rather than formality. Materials such as concrete, brick, wood, and metal contribute to the desired rustic camp aesthetic. A notable design element is the shared chimney for two fireplaces, one in the great room and another on the rear deck. The initial football-like shape of the chimney was modified to a 7-ft.-diameter drum reducing to a smaller tower, with 90-degree corners where brick meets siding, simplifying flashing and brick-cutting. An aesthetic highlight is the cedar siding, which weathers to a gray finish where exposed to the sun, but retains an orange-gold color at the recessed entry, creating a beacon effect and adding contrast to the color palette. This natural weathering process helps the house blend seamlessly into its surroundings, reflecting thoughtful decisions in its construction and design. #ModernHomeDesign #RuralArchitecture #WaterfrontProperty #AccessibleDesign #SustainableMaterials #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalAwards #ResidentialConstruction #FamilyLiving

This article highlights the design of a new-build modern farmhouse in Tennessee, showcasing a blend of rustic, industrial, and contemporary styles. The project, led by interior designer Adam Hunter, aimed to combine raw, textured qualities with industrial elements while maintaining warmth and an inviting atmosphere. The 383-acre estate features an orchard, ponds, lakes, walking bridges, a private swimming hole, and extensive hiking and biking trails. The design philosophy emphasizes a seamless connection between the stunning natural landscape and purposeful interior design. The great room, a central feature of the home, boasts 38-foot vaulted ceilings that create a sense of grandeur. This space is anchored by a Holly Hunt sofa and a Jane Hallworth Aquila Constellation lighting fixture. Custom two-tone beveled metal fireplace surrounds by Amuneal add balance and warmth to the sitting and dining areas. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining space features a custom-designed table by Adam Hunter with a live edge and blue resin, complemented by Gregorius Pineo dining chairs and a Mehraban rug. Cerused white oak flooring in a grey wash is used throughout the home, connecting different areas. The kitchen is designed to be strong and impactful, with clear sightlines from the living and dining spaces. Calacatta Viola marble, sourced from KD Style & Co, is a focal point, used for the stylish floating extractor hood, a matching waterfall island, and countertops. Custom cabinetry by Amuneal in a Hunter Bronze finish, Mattaliano pendant lights from Holly Hunt, and Amtrend stools upholstered in a geometric Rosemary Hallgarten fabric contribute to the sophisticated aesthetic. A vibrant fire engine red Lacanche range, Rocky Mountain Hardware sinks, and Waterworks faucets complete the kitchen's luxurious feel. The home includes several distinct seating areas. A more intimate family room features custom leather walls from British purveyor Bill Amberg in a "Batman blue," accented with a bold metal grid trim by Amuneal. The rug in this space is the Zebois design by Adam Hunter for The Rug Company, along with a custom lighting fixture also designed by Hunter. A third living room offers a blend of traditional and contemporary inspirations, merging indoor and outdoor spaces to honor the natural surroundings. Ombré drapery, a Fortuny pendant light, a Blackman Cruz cocktail table, and a custom sofa define this area, while a Fromental Prunus in Pandora cherry blossom design wallcovering brings nature indoors, referencing the estate's 188-tree orchard. The stairway leading to the basement's tornado shelter and wine room showcases a playful design with Adam Hunter's "Smoke Sunset" rug runner, custom Amuneal metal handrailing, and a Lost in Space robot. The primary bedroom features a custom, hand-painted wallpaper by Janet Yonaty, overflowing onto the headboard, with sconces by Holly Hunt Design. A guest bedroom offers a soft, sunny ambiance with a modern mustard yellow bedframe custom designed by Adam Hunter, made by Bespoke Furniture with Citron Mohair Velvet by Cowtan and Tout, and tactile selenite bedside lamps from Thomas Lavin. Sheer white petal design drapery by Stout Textiles adds a romantic touch. The luxurious en-suite bathroom boasts generous proportions, with high ceilings wrapped in reflective silk wallpaper, Calacatta marble surfaces, and extensive marble detailing. Sconces by Alison Berger Glassworks and an impressive chandelier by John Pomp Studios enhance the opulent feel. The property also includes additional spaces for rest and retreat, such as a barn by the lake, a cozy cabin, stables, and a pool house, all designed to immerse inhabitants in the surrounding nature. #ContemporaryFarmhouse #InteriorDesign #RusticIndustrialStyle #LuxuryHome #TennesseeEstate #AdamHunterDesign #MarbleAccents #ModernFarmhouse

A recently completed home in Medina, Minnesota, is situated within a 90-acre conservation easement and borders the Baker Park Reserve, a regional recreation area known for its wildlife, hiking trails, and a large lake. The designers focused on creating a structure that complements, rather than detracts from, the natural surroundings, characterized by native wetlands and meadows frequented by deer and sandhill cranes. Positioned on the community's highest point, the home offers panoramic westward views of the reserve and its prairie landscape. The builder, Blake Swanson of Swanson Homes, emphasized the importance of maximizing sunlight and scenic views, leading to the extensive use of windows. He and his wife, Lindsey Swanson of Carbon 6 Interiors, selected Marvin® windows and doors, specifically Casement windows and Swinging French doors from the Marvin Signature® and Elevate® collections. These choices were deemed perfect for achieving the home's desired light and airy aesthetic. The interior design incorporates a simple material palette of stone and wood, contrasting with bold matte black finishes for a modern yet warm ambiance. The great room, with its 12-foot ceilings and expansive windows, is a central feature. Design elements such as a rift white oak drop-down ceiling soffit in the great room, a limestone fireplace, and white oak wood flooring add warmth and texture to the space. These are complemented by windows and doors finished in Designer Black with matching Matte Black Hardware and light fixtures. Marvin's product lines offer various factory-stained or painted finishes and wood options, including Pine, Cherry, Douglas Fir, and Black Walnut. The interior's clean lines are further enhanced by sleek simulated divided lites, which break up the large glass panels and align with other architectural features. Lindsey Swanson opted for 7/8-inch wide simulated divided lites in a simple horizontal pattern, designed to guide the eye toward the horizon views. Several bedrooms feature different types of Marvin windows. The principal suite includes a trio of Elevate Casement windows, both stationary and operable, framing the landscape views. One secondary bedroom, currently a home office, boasts a massive Ultimate Double Hung G2 Picture window, with its sleek simulated divided lites contributing to the modern architectural features. Another bedroom combines a Casement window with Awning windows above the bed, and its en suite bathroom is also illuminated by a large Casement window. The coherent design, utilizing wood and stone, prioritizes the natural landscape, making its views accessible from almost every part of the home. The decision to use Marvin products was driven by the desire for windows and doors that enhance both the architectural appeal and the natural setting of the residence. #ModernHome #PrairieLandscape #MinnesotaDesign #MarvinWindows #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalIntegration #InteriorDesign #WindowSelection #HomeBuilding

This article details the design and aesthetic of a newly built modern homestead in regional New South Wales, crafted by interior design studio Arent&Pyke; and landscaper Paul Bangay. The home, intended as a weekender and holiday retreat for an extended family, was designed to evoke a different mood from the owners' contemporary Sydney residence, emphasizing a sense of unhurried country living. The building's traditional homestead-style lines, wide verandahs, and placement on a slight rise overlooking a lake give it a timeless appearance despite its new construction. The design process involved a close collaboration between the owners and designers, allowing for increasingly bold and imaginative schemes as the project progressed. This collaboration led to a departure from initial plans, such as the kitchen's color scheme, which was originally intended to be white but evolved into a greeny-black hue using Dulux 'Briar' paint for the cabinetry. The interior design prioritizes comfort and sophistication, accommodating frequent guests with generous proportions and thoughtful layouts. The five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home features a linear layout surrounded by verandahs, with most spaces on a single level, except for an elevated section housing two additional bedrooms. This expansive design, spanning over 15 hectares with no visible neighbors, offers a profound sense of peace and connection to nature. Despite the open layout, the interior design aimed to create a feeling of "cocooning" indoors, acknowledging the region's harsher and colder climate. While French doors in each room provide access to the verandahs, the emphasis was on establishing a distinct indoor-outdoor relationship through visual connections to the garden from every vantage point. A key aspect of the interior styling is the blend of old and new elements, creating an accumulated-over-time aesthetic. Iconic pieces like the Ercol 'Easy' chairs are mixed with vintage finds from auction houses and bespoke contemporary furnishings. This eclectic approach, according to Sarah-Jane Pyke, prevents the interior from feeling too "stitched up and perfect," allowing for flexibility and future additions. Art collection, a long-standing passion for the owners, plays a significant role in defining the spaces, with pieces like Lucy Culliton's "Tristan Honey and Denise" in the entry and a substantial Ben Quilty work in the dining room, for which a custom wall was built. The master bedroom suite exemplifies the bold use of color, driven by the selection of de Gournay 'L’Eden' wallpaper as a starting point. A deep blue from the wallpaper's palette was chosen for the room's remaining walls, creating a dramatic yet calming atmosphere. The suite also includes a cozy sitting area, a stone fireplace, and a bathtub set into a bay window, highlighting the luxury of leisure time in the country setting. Playful elements, such as tartan and checkerboard tiling in the bathrooms, add a unique spin on classic country tropes, reinforcing the home's joyful spirit and fulfilling the owner's request for a timeless country home that beautifully integrates sunlight and landscape views. Overall, the project successfully merges traditional homestead architecture with contemporary interior design principles, resulting in a residence that is both visually striking and deeply comfortable. The thoughtful integration of art, furniture, and color, along with a strong connection to the surrounding natural environment, defines this modern country home as a serene and sophisticated retreat. #ModernHomestead #CountryDesign #InteriorDesign #ArentPyke #PaulBangay #RegionalNSW #LuxuryHome #EclecticDecor #ColorPalette

In 2022, facing a challenging real estate market, Cody and Ashley Spencer, along with Cody’s brother and sister-in-law, collaboratively purchased a property in Langley. This acquisition laid the groundwork for their company, Homestead Design Build, which specializes in multi-generational living projects. Their clientele often includes younger generations struggling to enter the housing market, leading to creative solutions like parents moving into basements or building laneways. The Spencers' personal project involved renovating an existing house for Cody's brother and sister-in-law while constructing a new home for themselves on the opposite end of the deep, forest-bordered lot. Initial plans for a sprawling rancher were re-evaluated due to the lot's narrow profile and proximity to a creek, leading them to design a two-storey, 1,950-square-foot residence. Inspired by storybook European cottages, the new home blends modern aesthetics with a cozy, timeless appeal. The exterior features steeply pitched rooflines, board-and-batten siding, and warm cedar accents against a charcoal-on-black color scheme. A covered back patio, sheltered by a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams and slim skylights, provides a three-season outdoor living space amidst Douglas fir and cedar trees, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Inside, dual-panel sliding-glass doors open into a living room dominated by a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, continuing the European cottage theme. The interior design incorporates an eclectic mix of vintage and modern furnishings, including a minimalist gallery wall and a dining area with spindle-back chairs, modern benches, and a traditional console. The kitchen is a focal point with a custom-framed hood fan, built-in shelves, and a striking quartz slab backsplash in a soft green hue. Defying convention, a framed artwork hangs above the range. A fieldstone feature wall near the farmhouse-style sink and brushed-gold faucet visually links to the living room fireplace. White and rift-cut white oak cabinetry with polished-chrome hardware contributes to a light, modern feel, while the Caesarstone-topped island features reeded side paneling and an integrated feeding nook for the family dog. The main floor powder room introduces a bold touch with walls and wainscotting drenched in Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog. Upstairs, the primary bathroom offers a spa-like retreat with a freestanding tub, ceramic herringbone floor tile, and large-format wall tiles mitered into the windows with quartz sills, creating a durable, waterproof wet area. The daughter's bedroom is decorated in bright pink, complemented by a green and rose bathroom with playful terrazzo hex floor tile and a practical pull-out stool from the vanity for accessibility. The couple’s home office, where they work side-by-side on projects, reflects their collaborative design-build approach. While the Spencers thoughtfully designed their home for longevity and adaptability to their family's growth, they acknowledge that minor details can be refreshed over time, ensuring the home remains both functional and aesthetically pleasing for years to come. #HomeDesign #CottagecoreStyle #MultiGenerationalLiving #HomesteadDesignBuild #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #EuropeanCottage #OutdoorLiving #FamilyHome

Designer Jennifer Hunter, a lifelong city dweller, fulfilled her dream of a country estate in Washington, Connecticut, alongside her husband and two daughters. The couple discovered their ideal location over ten years ago, envisioning a classic Greek Revival home that would integrate with Litchfield County's historical architecture while showcasing Hunter's distinctive bold and playful design philosophy. Collaborating with Hinkel Design Group, a local architect, and Prospect Mountain Builders, they embarked on transforming this vision into a tangible home. The completed residence is a timeless yet functional space for Hunter’s family, characterized by durable finishes, intricate custom millwork, and a curated selection of custom wallpapers, antiques, and commissioned art, all designed to be appreciated without excessive formality. Hunter notes the positive reception from clients, many of whom have been inspired by the home to request similar materials or even engage her design services. The 4,500-square-foot house features four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms. The living room, painted in a high-gloss aubergine, provides versatile seating arrangements for various activities, including after-dinner cocktails, board games, and quiet reading. A custom portrait of George Washington serves as a playful homage to the town. Custom couches in Mughal Floral fabric by Botanica Trading, a custom art piece by Paste, an antique coffee table from 1stDibs, and sconces from Visual Comfort complete the space. Crisp white molding and chartreuse accents, such as a custom chaise covered in Sister Parish's Dot fabric, maintain an open and elegant feel. The family room, with its muted tones inspired by the natural landscape, openly connects to the kitchen but retains its distinct character. A soft green vaulted ceiling contributes to an effortless and grounded atmosphere. Exposed beams provide architectural interest and define the boundary between the kitchen and family room. The entryway immediately conveys Hunter’s signature style, combining traditional millwork with personalized elements like botanical collages by Paste, a Temple Studio runner, and a custom green wallpaper inspired by Albert Hadley’s ‘Happy’ pattern. In contrast to the vibrant hues found elsewhere, the kitchen adopts a serene approach with creamy cabinetry and natural stone countertops that are expected to develop a beautiful patina over time. Hunter aimed for a classic, clean, and calm space. The kitchen includes Farrow and Ball ‘Wimborne White’ cabinet paint, Fireclay Tile backsplash, Armac Martin hardware, Calacatta Luccicoso countertops from La Pietra Tile and Stone, Visual Comfort pendants, and a Lacanche range. A sunlit dining nook with a custom plate wall offers a cozy spot for family meals and activities. Adjacent to the dining room, a hunter green pantry provides a saturated nook reminiscent of an English larder, featuring open storage and baskets. The dining room itself boasts a whimsical mural by Zoe Design, inspired by the Garden Room at the nearby Mayflower Inn, complemented by furniture from Scout and Nimble and fabrics from Namay Samay and Etsy. The guest suite, known as “The Tree House,” is situated above the garage, providing privacy and a kitchenette. Its walls are adorned with a custom colorway of Sandberg’s Raphael wallpaper. The primary bathroom features a more masculine design with plaid floors and effortless materials, creating a spa-like retreat. A Kohler soaker tub offers a place for relaxation. The girls' room exudes childhood magic with floral Schumacher wallpaper, vintage twin beds, and a custom lamp shade in Schuyler Samperton fabric. The primary bedroom's aesthetic was inspired by a picnic basket, featuring woven textures, natural tones, and a custom bed with Jasper fabric, setting a tone of casual elegance. The mud bathroom on the ground floor combines style with practicality, serving as a full bath for outdoor clean-up while incorporating pattern play with Fireclay tile and Jasper wallpaper. The girls’ bathroom presents a feminine design with a powdery pink palette and a custom tile floor mimicking rosettes. The mudroom, painted in rich burgundy, offers functional storage for coats, shoes, and hats. Finally, the expansive porch, with its classic wicker furniture and striped textiles, invites relaxation, while the home's exterior, a Greek Revival design, was meticulously planned to blend seamlessly with the historic architecture of Litchfield County, incorporating custom elements like door hardware inspired by George Washington's jacket. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CountryEstate #JenniferHunter #LitchfieldCounty #CustomMillwork #PatternPlay #GreekRevival #TailoredInteriors

Carson and Dori Boneck, former Wicker Park residents, initially envisioned themselves as city dwellers but shifted their perspective when searching for a suitable lot to build a new home. After two years of unsuccessful searching in the city for a sufficiently sized lot, they decided to move to Wilmette, seeking large, functional living spaces for their two young children. The result was a 4,600-square-foot modern farmhouse completed in 2013, featuring six bedrooms and five bathrooms. The interior architecture and design were handled by Kelley Audrain of Audrain Architecture and Cookie Weber of Inside Job. The design brief was to combine Dori's rural upbringing with their years of city living, aiming for a balance of rustic charm and urban edge. This fusion is evident in the home's exterior, which features traditional white board-and-batten siding punctuated by a black door and black window casings, giving the classic farmhouse a modern feel. This palette extends indoors, where one-inch-thick jambs around doors and windows are painted a deep gray, a design choice initially daunting but ultimately defining for the house. The designers emphasized creating a lived-in and comfortable atmosphere, incorporating rustic elements throughout the new construction. A sliding barn door connects Carson's office and the living room, adding texture. A woven-oak chandelier by Chicago artist Lucy Slivinski draws attention to exposed ceiling beams. In the dining room, a reclaimed wood mantel contrasts with contemporary metallic wall covering. Furnishings primarily consist of refurbished mid-century pieces from Knoll, Risom, and Eames, upholstered in kid-friendly fabrics, alongside new and custom items. The kitchen features a rustic table from Anthropologie paired with a bench and chairs from Skokie-based New Breed Furniture Network, a company also responsible for Carson's desk and the master suite's bedside tables. The Bonecks prioritized supporting local artisans and vendors over catalog purchases. A distinctive feature of the home is its bold use of wallpaper, much of it from the Dutch company Eijffinger. This is applied in the dining room, powder room, and children's rooms, introducing an element of surprise, layers of color, and depth that transform potentially quiet spaces. The overall design successfully achieves the Bonecks' goal of a home that blends city and country aesthetics, and modern and rustic styles, creating a unique and satisfying living environment. #ModernFarmhouse #WilmetteRealEstate #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #RusticUrbanBlend #CustomFurniture #WallpaperDesign #SuburbanLiving