The Berkeley Tudor: A Tour Through Fort Worth Designer Tori Rubinson's Latest, Lavish Project

Lonni Paul, a prominent Los Angeles-based interior designer known for her work with celebrities, undertook the extensive project of decorating real estate developer Ted Foxman's 20,000-square-foot Bel Air family home. Foxman, who retired early and built a multi-million dollar company, decided to move his family from Chicago to Los Angeles and sought Paul's expertise to create a fashionable and comfortable home for his wife and four children. The family desired a "family compound" that would allow them to enjoy the California sunshine year-round, serving as a well-designed respite from Chicago's harsh winters. The Foxmans acquired the unique property in 2016, and over two and a half years, Paul meticulously infused their aesthetic throughout the colossal residence. Foxman emphasized a vision of light, airy, and positive energy pervading every space, with large rooms feeling cozy and widely appealing. The property spans four acres and boasts impressive features, including an expansive Pacific Ocean view, eight bedrooms, and twelve bathrooms. Beyond the living spaces, the estate is equipped with an array of amenities designed for both family life and grand entertaining, such as a screening room, wine room, game room, and two formal living rooms. Outdoor facilities include an Olympic-size pool, a basketball court, a tennis court, a batting cage, two fire pits, an outdoor barbecue with a bar, a dining area seating twenty, and even a helicopter pad. This comprehensive setup makes the property suitable for children's activities and large social gatherings. Despite the immense scale of the property, Paul noted that the square footage itself was not the primary challenge. Instead, certain existing elements presented difficulties, such as the "garish" black and white checkered tiles in the entry, which were replaced with hardwood floors. Paul also expanded the property by adding a new family room and converting a former balcony into a master bedroom. These structural changes were made to capitalize on the home's most beautiful views, offering a spectacular vantage point from both new spaces. Following these renovations, Paul exercised her creative freedom by introducing unique and surprising design elements. Examples include a powder room adorned with bird-motif wallpaper and a dining room saturated in rich navy hues, intentionally designed to be slightly more unconventional yet elegantly integrated. The dining room features custom chairs by Tytek upholstered in Kravet velvet and a J. Alexander credenza. The eat-in kitchen incorporates sophisticated blue accents, with Walker Zanger tiles providing contrast to the predominantly white decor and Romo for Thomas Lavin mohair velvet upholstery adding a luxurious touch to the seating. A notable highlight in the spacious living room, which is divided into two seating areas, is a neon sign proclaiming, “You are amazing just the way you are,” discovered at an art gallery. This piece is encased in an acrylic box with a mirrored metal plate, creating an infinite reflection effect. Paul also encouraged Foxman's playful side, culminating in the bold decision to park a vintage Porsche in the middle of the entry, after considering other "crazy ideas" like a metal ferris wheel or a merry-go-round. Understanding the family's connections to the music industry, with celebrity friends like Seal and Babyface, a dedicated music room was essential. This space allows guests to jam on guitars and serves as a display area for Foxman's extensive guitar collection. To balance these more eccentric elements, Paul incorporated calming designs in other areas. The master bedroom, for instance, features a neutral palette that enhances the outdoor views. Automated curtains reveal a spectacular forty-mile vista to the ocean and Catalina Island, creating a serene and relaxing environment, which Foxman cites as one of his favorite aspects of the home. Paul expressed her satisfaction with the varied aesthetics throughout the residence, noting that each room offers a distinct experience, akin to visiting a different destination within the home, making the project particularly enjoyable. #BelAirEstate #LuxuryDesign #LonniPaul #TedFoxman #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #FamilyHome #CaliforniaLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation

Danielle Bernstein, the founder of WeWoreWhat, showcased her recently renovated Tribeca loft in New York City, which she describes as her dream home and a "zen, happy place." The apartment, situated in a former spice warehouse, features a Wabi Sabi-inspired design, characterized by an appreciation for imperfection and natural elements. Bernstein's renovation focused on creating a serene and minimalist environment while preserving the industrial character of the building. The loft boasts a massive open-concept layout that integrates the kitchen, living room, and dining area. This space is defined by exposed wood-beamed ceilings and industrial columns, retaining a subtle cinnamon scent from the building's historical use. To maintain a clean and uncluttered aesthetic, Bernstein incorporated custom compartments that conceal her television and bar area, allowing them to be hidden when not in use. Her design choices reflect a blend of modern luxury and rustic charm. The kitchen cabinetry is painted in a soft chocolate brown, complementing the darker-stained floors, which contribute to a moody ambiance that aligns with her personal style. Among the notable furnishings are rattan dining chairs, described as an investment piece, with each costing between $6,000 and $8,000. These chairs are noted for their fragility and Indian origin. A significant feature of the loft is the transformation of two bedrooms into dedicated walk-in closets. One closet is meticulously organized for accessories, housing her extensive collection of designer shoes, purses, sunglasses, and jewelry. Bernstein refers to this as her "Carrie Bradshaw, 'Sex and the City' closet." The second closet is dedicated to her clothing, organized by style and color, resembling a showroom to facilitate her fashion career. This practical yet luxurious organization system is essential for her work as a fashion influencer. The master bedroom is designed to be tranquil and light, featuring a plush king-sized bed with white bedding and a rustic wood headboard. The room is further enhanced by a fuzzy cream chair and a Noguchi lantern, contributing to the overall serene atmosphere. A light wood desk and matching dresser, along with a large TV, complete the bedroom's functional elements. The primary bathroom is equipped with marble finishes, two sinks, and a freestanding bathtub that Bernstein utilizes weekly for self-care rituals. It also includes heated floors and an LED lighting mirror, which she states is where she spends a significant amount of time getting ready. She previously resided in a SoHo apartment that was featured in Architectural Digest before moving to Tribeca, following a breakup with her long-term boyfriend. She is now in a new relationship with Cooper Weisman, who has been seen spending time in her newly designed loft. #TribecaLoft #WabiSabiDesign #DanielleBernstein #InteriorDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #FashionInfluencer #WalkInClosets #NewYorkCityRealEstate #HomeDecor

The Upper East Side of New York City, traditionally associated with a classic prewar lifestyle, is experiencing a resurgence of understated elegance, moving away from the super-tall tower trend. This shift is exemplified by 40 East End, a newly completed 20-story residential building located in Yorkville. Designed by ELLE DECOR Titan Deborah Berke Partners in collaboration with Gerner Kronick + Valcarcel Architects, the building aims to offer a luxurious yet grounded living experience. Architect Deborah Berke, a long-time resident of Yorkville, viewed 40 East End as a passion project. Her primary goal was to create a structure that felt deeply rooted in its urban context while simultaneously reinterpreting traditional architectural elements in a contemporary manner. This approach sought to achieve a timeless quality, ensuring the building harmonizes with its surroundings and endures aesthetically. Materiality played a crucial role in Berke's design philosophy for 40 East End. The facade features warmly colored charcoal and gray bricks, chosen for their richness and tactile quality, which contribute to the building's overall character. These external elements contrast with the internal common spaces, which incorporate more direct expressions of luxury. For instance, the grand parlor boasts a striking black and white marble chevron floor, a prominent crystal chandelier, and a bronze-clad iron staircase, all designed to add a significant touch of opulence. This commitment to diverse and high-quality materials extends to the 28 full-floor and half-floor units within the building. A notable example is the primary bathrooms, which are meticulously crafted using Arabescato Cervaiole marble and mirror-back Bendheim glass, reflecting a blend of sophistication and functionality. The design choices throughout the building underscore Berke's intention to create residences that cater to discerning individuals seeking a beautiful and luxurious long-term home, rather than properties primarily for investment. Berke emphasizes that 40 East End is not designed to be overtly showy. Instead, it embodies a philosophy of creating a comfortable and elegant environment where residents can establish their lives over many years. The project signifies a return to a more refined and enduring architectural style in New York City, focusing on livability, contextual integration, and sophisticated material palettes. #LuxuryRealEstate #NewYorkCity #ArchitecturalDesign #DeborahBerkePartners #UnderstatedElegance #Yorkville #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #Materiality

Stylist Hilary Robertson, upon moving to Brooklyn nine years ago, faced the challenge of furnishing her new Fort Greene home after leaving most of her furniture in England. Her initial struggle in finding suitable pieces was overcome following a visit to the Brimfield Antiques Flea Market in Massachusetts, which proved to be a pivotal experience. Instead of filling her home with numerous antique items, Robertson opted for a carefully curated selection that integrates seamlessly into her elegant aesthetic, adding character without overwhelming the space. Robertson's Fort Greene residence is a 19th-century Italianate brownstone, featuring classic architectural details such as marble mantels and ornate ceilings. Despite the inherent vintage qualities of both the house and her chosen objects, the overall feeling of her home is light and modern. This contemporary ambiance is largely achieved through a predominantly light and neutral color palette, which creates a sense of openness and sophistication. Furthermore, Robertson employs a strategic balance between decorative elements and empty space, ensuring that the vintage pieces enhance rather than dominate the interior. The refined appearance of her home does not stem from exclusively precious or expensive items. Robertson demonstrates a creative approach by improvising and repurposing various objects. For instance, a white trashcan was ingeniously transformed into a chandelier, showcasing her ability to see potential in unconventional items. Additionally, a pair of French chairs were given a raw, "upholstery sauvage" makeover, as once described by the New York Times, by being roughly reupholstered with plain muslin and a staple gun. This technique highlights a more rustic, unpretentious aspect of her design philosophy. While the main living areas adhere to a light-hued scheme, Robertson introduces a contrasting element in her kitchen, where a dark blue wall color deviates from the overall neutral palette. This choice adds depth and a distinct personality to the kitchen space, demonstrating her willingness to incorporate varied color schemes where appropriate. The interior design of her home reflects a unique blend of British charm and modern sensibility, creating an inviting and visually interesting environment that respects the historical context of the brownstone while embracing contemporary living. #FortGreene #HilaryRobertson #InteriorDesign #Antiques #Brownstone #Brooklyn #HomeDecor #VintageStyle #ModernAntiques

Studio Thomas, led by principal designer Kristen Thomas, undertook the renovation of a historic Tudor-style property in one of Denver's oldest neighborhoods. Built in 1912 by Jacques Benedict, the home featured intricate Gothic details, diamond-pane windows, and dentil molding. The design brief focused on creating a modern, liveable space that respected the home's original architecture while incorporating the owners' European heritage and curated lifestyle. The project successfully balanced contemporary design with the building's traditional elements, resulting in an elevated yet functional family home that reflects both its inhabitants and its rich history. The kitchen, identified by Kristen as her favorite room, served as the starting point and set the tone for the entire design. It was transformed into a luxurious yet practical space, wrapped in Panzano marble for countertops, backsplash, and the oven hood, blending minimalism with timeless grandeur. The marble's rich greens, deep blues, and creamy undertones dictated the home's overall color palette. This area had previously been renovated in a sterile, ultra-modern style that disconnected it from the rest of the house. Studio Thomas's intervention aimed to bridge this gap by reintroducing materials and details that honored the home's heritage, such as live-finish plumbing fixtures and classic cabinetry, while still accommodating modern living. A charming breakfast nook within the kitchen features a custom oval table designed for family gatherings, emphasizing intimacy over grand scale. The intentional use of varied textures and a carefully selected neutral palette, including dark wood floors, cream plaster walls, and Benjamin Moore's Baby Fawn for trim, ensured warmth and depth throughout the property. Antique brass fixtures were incorporated to provide an aged aesthetic that would gracefully evolve over time. The entryway showcases a blend of eclectic and curated elements, featuring checkerboard flooring that runs throughout the property, complemented by modern furnishings and a minimal color scheme. The original architectural framework, such as the custom-forged stair railing, was enhanced with contemporary touches. A cozy snug room deviates from traditional designs, offering a mix of formality and comfort through a dark color palette, rich fabrics, and metallic accents. A vintage brown leather armchair provides a lived-in quality, while a leafy houseplant adds freshness against the deep tones. The home bar, though compact, exudes grandeur with metallic accents, tarnished mirror walls, a marble countertop, and deep gray cabinets. Sculptural pieces, like an organic-shaped stool, introduce contemporary coolness. The living room exemplifies the seamless integration of the building's original infrastructure with Studio Thomas's interior design. The original ceiling molding was painted a rich green to highlight its beauty, and a custom curved sofa was commissioned to soften the rectangular space and improve balance. Layering warmth and softness was achieved through hand-plastered walls, which contribute to an old-world richness, and full French-pleated drapery that adds both luxury and relaxation, appealing to the European sensibilities of the clients. The dining area, framed by Gothic-style windows, blends historic and modern elements, featuring black-clad window frames in areas without original leaded glass and modern lighting. The thoughtful mixing of traditional dining furniture and Chinoiserie ceramics with a boucle sofa and a low-slung coffee table creates impressive harmony. Even small details, such as a simple wooden stool and rustic bowl in a hallway, were carefully curated to allow the original features to stand out. The master bedroom employs deep, earthy forest green tones for built-in cabinetry and the back wall, fostering a sense of warmth and coziness, enhanced by gold accents and balanced with neutral linen bedding. The walk-in closet maintains a minimal yet timeless elegance, with gold accents and a statement chandelier, ensuring both sophistication and practicality for daily living. The master bathroom, quiet and minimal, features Taj Mahal stone counters, plastered walls, and live-finish plumbing fixtures, with personalized details like shadowboxed vintage children's clothing and original artisan sketches that tell the family's story, embodying an effortless, beautiful, and purposeful design. Kristen Thomas describes the home as a thoughtful blend of old-world charm and contemporary design, rooted in tradition but with a fresh, edited sensibility, seamlessly integrating contemporary styles for modern life with traditional elements that honor the home's original features. This approach creates a design that is both authentic and timeless. This project exemplifies how modern design can integrate respectfully with historic architecture, creating a home that is both beautiful and deeply personal. Kristen Thomas's approach emphasizes meticulous curation, from the grand architectural details to the smallest decorative elements, ensuring that every space within the Denver home tells a story and serves its inhabitants' needs. The result is a home that feels both luxurious and lived-in, bridging centuries of design with grace and intentionality. The harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary elements is consistently applied across all rooms, creating a cohesive narrative throughout the property. Each design choice, from the kitchen's Panzano marble to the master bedroom's deep green, is meticulously considered to contribute to the home's unique character and a sense of enduring elegance. #TudorStyleHome #HistoricRenovation #LuxuryInteriors #TransitionalDesign #ModernEuropeanStyle #KitchenDesign #MarbleKitchen #NeutralDecor #ArchitecturalPreservation

Tiffany Blackmon's 7,700-square-foot villa near Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth has undergone a comprehensive transformation, evolving from its original state to a residence that seamlessly merges classic elegance with modern flair. When Blackmon and her husband, Greg, acquired the property in 2017, it presented an opportunity for a significant redesign. The exterior, initially not white and lacking the current front-facing terrace and Roman piazza-inspired fountain, was completely revitalized to reflect an Italian Renaissance Revival aesthetic, a style chosen for its timeless appeal. This external change provides a striking contrast to the interior, which features a modern, glossy, and vibrant design, incorporating distinctive elements like blue tile and ornate columns in the living room. The home's design strategically maximizes its location, offering unimpeded views of the Colonial Country Club's golf course. The main living areas, including the kitchen, dining room, living room, and master bedroom, are situated on the upper floor, granting these frequently used spaces expansive vistas. Additional bedrooms and a gym are located downstairs. Blackmon collaborated with interior designer Pamela Kay Flowers of P.K. Flowers Interiors to realize her vision for a livable and aesthetically pleasing space that authentically represents her personality. Flowers emphasized the importance of a home reflecting its owner, and the design process aimed to create a bright and inviting environment. Notable features within the home include a front-facing terrace, originally an indoor room, repurposed for entertaining. The master bedroom's placement on the second floor aligns with the home's design philosophy of optimizing views. The study showcases an exotic wood called African Limba on one wall, complemented by Lamborghini books on a built-in shelf as a subtle nod to Italy. The house also contains unique art pieces, such as an original painting by Atlanta-based artist Lisa Moore and a custom corner couch by Baker Furniture. The home's small backyard led to a creative solution for water features, with a fountain in the front yard rather than a pool, necessitated by zoning regulations. Mirrored walls, a feature inherited from previous owners, were retained and utilized to enhance light and spaciousness, a technique Flowers highlighted as crucial in modern design. Each of the four downstairs bedrooms boasts a distinct design, contributing to the overall individualized character of the home. The home gym, adorned in purple with a horned frog mural, proudly displays Blackmon's TCU allegiance. The African Limba wood reappears in the spacious his-and-her closets, which are equipped with private sinks and bathrooms. A painting by Blackmon's mother further personalizes the space. Flowers noted that the home evokes the feeling of a resort, attributing this to the beautiful views accessible from various points within the property. The residence functions as an ideal backdrop for Blackmon's work as a content creator, influencer, podcast host, and chef, aligning with her lifestyle and public persona. #HomeTour #LuxuryHomes #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernFlair #ClassicElegance #FortWorth #TiffanyBlackmon #ArchitecturalRenovation

This article delves into the unique charm and inherent lessons found within the historic summer houses of Newport, as observed by interior designer Ruthie Sommers. Sommers recounts her initial experiences upon arriving in Newport approximately two decades ago, expecting to find the modern, pristine interiors typical of her Los Angeles-based design work. Instead, she encountered homes that defied contemporary design trends, showcasing features like rosebud-colored five-by-five tiles and pegboards laden with cast-iron pots, in stark contrast to the shiny bathrooms and cavernous walk-in closets she was accustomed to designing. The article highlights the absence of newly designed, polished spaces, replaced by a sense of history and individuality. Sommers was struck by the authentic and unapologetic expression of personality embedded within these homes. She describes finding old Oscar de la Renta and Bill Blass gowns hanging from doors and sconces, alongside burnt-edge Fortuny shades that were askew. A particularly vivid detail is the ombré curtains, whose deep purple had faded to periwinkle over years of sun exposure, which Sommers viewed as masterpieces that no fabric house could intentionally replicate. These elements, combined with the presence of multiple generations filling the homes during summers, created an atmosphere she likens to a Pissarro painting, emphasizing an unpolished, lived-in beauty rather than a 'photo-ready' interior. The core revelation for Sommers was the profound sense of self-acceptance these homes embodied. They did not attempt to mask their owners' stories but rather narrated them through their decor and architecture. This approach presented a novel and liberating perspective to Sommers as a designer, leading her to question the contemporary cycle of perpetual change in architecture and decor. She posits that if our physical environments are constantly being updated and replaced, our inner selves might mirror this superficiality. The article suggests that these Newport houses communicate a timeless lesson: that true beauty and character come from embracing age and authenticity, rather than constantly pursuing newness. Sommers concludes by expressing her indebtedness to this lesson, advocating for a pause in the relentless pursuit of the new. She suggests that the aged and the ageless can coexist harmoniously, and that understanding the beauty in elements like the periwinkle curtains or the sight of an elderly gardener tending to his weeds reveals a shared secret: that innovation and freshness are not external acquisitions but intrinsic qualities that reside within us. The article also mentions the release of Ruthie Sommers and Nick Mele's book, 'A Newport Summer,' in May 2022, further emphasizing the designer's connection to and insights from the Newport aesthetic. The piece implicitly encourages readers to find value in enduring style and personal history within their own living spaces. #InteriorDesign #NewportHomes #RuthieSommers #ArchitecturalHistory #TimelessDesign #HomeDecor #AuthenticityInDesign

In 1967, fiber artist Sheila Hicks collaborated with architect Warren Platner to design two linen-and-silk wall panels for the Ford Foundation headquarters in New York City. Platner was responsible for the interiors of the 12-story modernist landmark, designed by Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates. Hicks's original wall panels, which featured rosettes threaded around metal discs, suffered significant damage over the years due to an attempted fire retardation treatment in the 1980s, the abrasion from Eames executive chairs in the conference room, and cigarette smoke in the auditorium. Recognizing the historical and artistic importance of these pieces, Ford Foundation President Darren Walker, appointed in 2013, initiated their replacement. He commissioned Hicks to recreate the murals. Hicks accepted the project without an artist's fee, underscoring her commitment to the foundation and her artwork. The re-installation took place in August 2014, with Hicks overseeing the process. This reprisal of her work for the Ford Foundation coincided with a broader resurgence of interest in Hicks's art, marked by other large-scale public commissions, including a yearlong exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris, and a general renewal of appreciation for weaving as an art form. The modern tapestry was produced in smaller, modular sections by Enrico Martignoni, the chief installer, and project leader Dominique Pastor. This modular approach was adopted to facilitate easier replacement if any section were to be damaged in the future. Crucially, the new silk-blend threads will not undergo the same caustic chemical fire-proofing treatment that damaged the original works. Additionally, the new panels are more cost-effective, utilizing a silk-blend thread and plastic discs in place of the original metal components. The article also touches upon the broader design elements of the Ford Foundation building. Warren Platner, known for his opulent modernist style, integrated bold metallics into his interiors, such as the gold-plated, floor-to-ceiling doors leading to the subterranean auditorium. The landscape designer Dan Kiley, celebrated for his work on projects like the Miller House and the St. Louis Arch, created the lush indoor urban garden within the Ford Foundation. Architects Kevin Roche and John Dinkeloo designed the headquarters with the employee in mind, reversing the traditional skyscraper layout to ensure every office had exterior views or overlooked the indoor park within the ten-story glass atrium. Skylights at the top of the atrium, framed in Cor-Ten steel, allow natural daylight to flood the space. Even the executive chairs, modified by Charles and Ray Eames, featured brown leather upholstery and brass accents to complement Platner's design, and notably, still included pull-out ashtrays. #SheilaHicks #FordFoundation #TextileArt #ModernistDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #ArtInstallation #WarrenPlatner #KevinRocheJohnDinkeloo

The article profiles the interior design firm Breckinridge Taylor, founded by Charles Taylor and Breck Woolsey, focusing on their return to Dallas from California and their impact on the local design scene. Both designers, originally from Texas, met in San Diego and decided to establish their business in Dallas, citing the city's abundance of opportunities for small businesses. They experienced initial delays in launching due to their ongoing individual projects but eventually succeeded in forming their company. Breckinridge Taylor is noted for its collaborative style, which blends vintage aesthetics with an eclectic mix of traditional, midcentury, and contemporary elements. The designers incorporate unexpected shapes and finishes into their work. Taylor describes his style as more contemporary, often mixing it with midcentury modern pieces, while Woolsey combines traditional and midcentury modern with Hollywood Regency influences. They aim to introduce current design trends to Dallas, often drawing from what is popular on the coasts or their personal tastes. Beyond their interior design services for residential and commercial spaces, such as the Osgood O’Neil salons, Breckinridge Taylor has ventured into furniture design. They collaborated with Mecox to create a line of 70 wood furniture pieces available in various finishes and also designed a rug collection sold at Interior Resources. Additionally, they have created special edition Lucite furniture for Plexicraft and will soon feature their updated vintage pieces at Again & Again. They have also launched a separate furniture line called Whilom Inc., which will soon be available at Mecox. On the commercial front, the duo has completed the interior design for John Tesar’s Spoon restaurant in Preston Center. They credit their success to the support and endorsement of bloggers, tastemakers, and influencers. Both designers expressed admiration for the architecture and innovative design of the Perot Nature and Science Museum, which they view as an example of the originality they hope to see more of in Dallas. The Design District in Dallas is highlighted as their favorite area, recognized for its comprehensive resources for designers and its potential for future growth with new restaurants, living spaces, and hotels. The article also mentions their participation in charitable events, including a Habitat for Humanity competition and a Dwell With Dignity event, demonstrating their engagement with the local community. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DallasDesign #BreckinridgeTaylor #FurnitureDesign #CommercialDesign #VintageModern #EclecticStyle #TexasDesigners

German artist Thorsten Brinkmann has embarked on his largest private art piece, transforming a dilapidated 1912 family home in Pittsburgh's Troy Hill neighborhood into a permanent art installation called 'La Hütte Royal.' The house was acquired in 2011 by local art collector Evan Mirapaul, who was inspired by the Art House Project on Naoshimi Island in Japan, where artists revitalize abandoned properties. Mirapaul invited Brinkmann to reimagine the neglected structure, which outwardly appears as a typical suburban house, to challenge perceptions of what lies within such unassuming facades. Brinkmann's vision has resulted in a complete overhaul of every room across the three main stories, including the basement where he installed a boxing ring. Visitors entering La Hütte Royal are immediately confronted by an enormous bell, a salvaged prop from a children's television show, setting the tone for the eccentric experience. The artist has ingeniously manipulated the house's internal structure by introducing new walls, creating intentionally narrow corridors and unexpected, unsettling nooks and crannies that disorient and engage visitors in a spatial puzzle. A central theme of 'La Hütte Royal' is creative reuse, with Brinkmann incorporating a vast array of found objects into his installation. Many of these items were discovered within the house itself or sourced from the local neighborhood, including old vinyl LPs. These salvaged materials are integrated into various artistic statements throughout the house, offering a narrative rooted in the property's history and surroundings. For instance, a home theatre located in the attic features vintage beauty parlor hairdryer stations meticulously arranged in neat rows, transforming functional items into a quirky display. Mirapaul emphasizes the contrast between the house's ordinary exterior and the imaginative world within, hoping the project will inspire viewers to consider the elaborate lives and stories that can be hidden behind conventional appearances. Brinkmann's use of materials found on-site or nearby makes the transformation deeply personal and poignant, highlighting a connection to the specific locality of Pittsburgh. He views 'La Hütte Royal' as a Gesamtkunstwerk, a total work of art, where his varied artistic practices—installations, photographs, sculptures, and videos—converge and where the boundaries between life and art dissolve. The installation includes specific artistic elements such as the artist's photographs and custom-designed wallpaper in the front foyer. One hallway features a dizzying wallpaper pattern that visitors must crawl through to access hidden rooms, further enhancing the interactive and immersive experience. Sculptures in the basement are crafted from found objects within the house, combined with Brinkmann’s own sculpted body parts, adding a surreal and personal touch. Another room is elaborately decorated with LPs and found objects, interspersed with Brinkmann’s sculpted ears and photographs, illustrating his distinctive artistic language. The whimsical boxing ring in the basement, complete with the artist's sculpted hands, was created in response to dilapidated fitness equipment found in the house, showcasing his ability to transform mundane objects into art. Vintage movie posters found in the house also line a hallway, contributing to the layered narrative of discovery and reinterpretation. 'La Hütte Royal' is located at 1812 Rialtostreet, 15212 Pittsburgh, inviting the public to explore this unique blend of art, architecture, and personal history. #ArtInstallation #ThorstenBrinkmann #LaHütteRoyal #PittsburghArt #FoundObjects #CreativeReuse #Gesamtkunstwerk #ExperientialArt #ArchitecturalTransformation

This article explores a historic 1920s double-wide townhouse on the Upper East Side of New York City, which served as the 47th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House. The clients purchased the entire building after attending the show house, initiating a gut renovation led by Francis Nicdao, principal designer and chief creative officer of Pembrooke & Ives, and Stephanie Sarkies-Schabot, the firm's managing director of decorating. The renovation, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to create a family home capable of displaying a vast, museum-quality art and antique collection without feeling overly formal. The design achieved a balance between contemporary cleanliness and traditional detailing, respecting the building's historical character. The entryway features checkerboard marble flooring and a spectacular spiral staircase connecting five of the six levels, designed to facilitate a smooth transition to vertical living. The living room, expansive due to the home's double-wide layout, is furnished with collectible design pieces and art, creating a grand and impactful atmosphere. Gold accents add a glamorous edge to a soft color palette. The combined breakfast and family room functions as the home's hub, with a custom back-to-back sofa dividing dining and lounge areas. This space, which opens into the kitchen, incorporates rich textures and blue hues, overlooked by Ralph Goings's artwork, _Tom’s Diner_. The kitchen, located on the entry floor, was designed for high functionality and ease of maintenance, with easily cleanable surfaces and ample counter space. Its blue island and barstools create a cohesive connection with the adjacent breakfast room. The wine cellar and wet bar, located in the basement and dining room respectively, demonstrate that even lower-level spaces can be glamorous, featuring specialty lighting for the wine display and a high-gloss blue paint with a mirrored backsplash in the wet bar. The primary suite, one of seven bedrooms, offers a dreamy ambiance with pink details and natural light enhancing its glow. The unique layout connects the bedroom to a walk-in closet and bathroom through a windowed corridor along the back facade. A guest bedroom provides a relaxing retreat with a neutral color palette, plush carpeting, embroidered drapery, a custom upholstered headboard, and a high-gloss wall finish. The primary bathroom integrates decorative lighting as a focal point, with a stunning chandelier and sconces, alongside symmetrical design and stone detailing for a luxurious and modern feel. Finally, the backyard patio, designed by landscape architect Luciano Guibbilei, serves as a “zen-like enclave” in the city, covering approximately 1,500 square feet and featuring a mural by artist Annie Morris, providing a serene outdoor escape. #NewYorkCity #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #HistoricPreservation #ArtCollection #PembrookeAndIves #KipsBayShowHouse #HomeDecor

Texas Design Week Houston will host a panel discussion on Thursday, April 17, from 11 am to 1 pm, at Ann Sacks, focusing on the importance of decorative arts in interior design. The panel features prominent figures in the decorative arts world: Guillaume Féau of Féau Boiseries Paris, master verre églomisé artist Miriam Ellner, and designer Sara Story. The event includes an illustrated talk, book signings, and cocktails, and is part of the broader Texas Design Week Houston schedule. Guillaume Féau represents Féau Boiseries, a Parisian company established in 1875 known for preserving and recreating centuries-old wood paneling. The firm possesses an extensive collection of antique decorative paneling, including fragments from Napoleon’s office and pieces by notable designers such as Jansen, Emilio Terry, Alberto Pinto, Madeleine Castaing, Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, and Jean-Michel Frank. The archive also contains historical elements like rooms designed for Madame de Pompadour and 18th-century chinoiserie panels. Féau Boiseries has collaborated with leading interior designers including Jacques Garcia, Jean-Louis Deniot, and Michael S. Smith, and their work has adorned the homes of influential patrons like Henry Frick, Henry Ford, and the Getty family. Under the leadership of Guillaume Féau and Angélique Féau-Leborgne, the company is expanding its presence in the United States with a new showroom in New York City’s D&D Building, aiming to provide easier access to their archives and reproduction panels spanning from the 17th century to the Art Deco period. Miriam Ellner, a master of verre églomisé, will also participate. Her artistry involves transforming plain glass into intricate decorative pieces using techniques like gilding, painting, and applying layers of gold and silver leaf, powdered potions, and other materials. Her New York City studio, where she works with a team of artists, produces custom wall panels, doors, ceilings, decorative screens, tables, mirrors, and abstract art. Ellner’s work is highly sought after by top designers such as Michael S. Smith, Bunny Williams, Emily Summers, and Peter Marino. She is recognized globally as a leading practitioner of verre églomisé, as highlighted by Glenn Adamson, former director of the Museum of Arts and Design. Her new book, “Golden Glass: Verre Églomisé,” showcases her unique artistry and experimental approach. Ellner's training includes a century-old art school in Brussels, where she learned decorative painting, gilding, trompe l’oeil, and the preparation of materials, followed by specialized training in verre églomisé with Frances Binnington in London. Sara Story, a Houston native based in New York City, has established an international design practice with projects worldwide and her own lines of lighting, wallpaper, and furniture. She is included in the AD 100 list and has been featured in numerous design and lifestyle publications. A significant career milestone was the 2014 feature in Architectural Digest showcasing the contemporary Hill Country ranch house she designed with Lake/Flato. Story is also deeply involved in the art world, serving on the Board of Ballroom Marfa, a founding member of Proyecto Dracula, and a Board of Trustees member for the New Museum, as well as a member of the Guggenheim Museum’s International Director’s Council and the Design Leadership Network. #TexasDesignWeek #DecorativeArts #InteriorDesign #GuillaumeFeau #FeauBoiseries #MiriamEllner #VerreEglomise #SaraStory #DesignPanel #LuxuryInteriors

In 2017, Charlie and Todd, along with their daughter India, moved into a 1930s Tudor house in Portland, Oregon. While the charming location and sweeping views were appealing, the home suffered from a series of hodgepodge renovations by previous owners. One of the two bathrooms, for instance, was so outdated with shiny brass fixtures, cracked floral tiles, and excessive recessed lighting that the family avoided using it altogether. A year after moving in, the couple enlisted Andee Hess of Osmose Design to transform their living space. The couple provided Hess with diverse inspirations, including carved cave interiors, Italian modernist furniture, and vibrant mosaic tiles. The consistent theme across their references was a desire for unique, non-generic designs. Hess embraced this challenge by conceptualizing a "hobbit fantasy," as described by Charlie. The kitchen, in particular, underwent a significant transformation. The existing white Shaker cabinets and butcher block counters were replaced with Tetris-like white oak cupboards featuring grooves and bumps instead of traditional hardware, allowing for foot operation. Charlie's preference for tile edges and tops led to the unconventional choice of tiled countertops, which required a skilled general contractor to execute the intricate cuts needed for the wavy surface. The flooring in the kitchen was also reimagined with glazed tiles laid in diagonal stripes with thick grout lines, creating an effect reminiscent of exterior pavers. This design was framed by a silver travertine border and toe-kick, highlighting the serpentine shape of the cabinets. The wall behind the stove received a floor-to-ceiling cream ceramic tile backsplash with floating shelves painted to match, a technique used to visually heighten the low ceilings. Undulating windows were adorned with inlaid strips of four different wood types. Local artist Scott Foster contributed a sculpted plaster vent hood. A double-tiered kitchen island became a focal point, featuring a sturdy Boos butcher block on its higher section and a chunky low table sculpture by Vince Skelly, which became a favorite spot for their daughter. Moving to the upstairs bathroom, the article highlights the controversial terracotta-hued faucet, which was intentionally chosen to complement an ochre tone in the custom mosaic floor. The manufacturer's allowance for selecting each stone color made the design process enjoyable for Hess. To balance the busy mosaic pattern, warm gray glazed wall tiles were installed. In the living room, Foster's expertise was again sought to plaster the fireplace surround in a complex concave curve, adorned with brown zellige tile. This installation, despite its difficulty, proved to be a valuable addition. A forgotten nook in the open-plan family room was transformed into a dining area, featuring a pointed archway and a tiered ceiling with wood inlay. A plush floating bench encircles a green onyx table, creating a new gathering space for the family to eat, read, and enjoy the view. #HomeTours #InteriorDesign #TudorRevival #KitchenRenovation #BathroomDesign #CustomCabinetry #MosaicTile #EclecticDesign #PortlandHomes

Terry Crews, known for his diverse career as an NFL player and actor, has extended his creative endeavors into furniture design through a partnership with Bernhardt Design. This collaboration merges comfort with distinctive style, rooted in Crews' lifelong passion for art and creativity, cultivated since his graphic design and fine art studies at Western Michigan University. His approach views furniture as a medium for artistic expression, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Crews' design philosophy is significantly influenced by ancient Egyptian culture, reimagined for a modern context. He explores the concept of a contemporary society still living under pharaonic influence, leading to unique design elements. His personal experiences, including his time in the NFL, acting career, and travels, also contribute to a diverse pool of inspirations. The creative process is narrative-driven, where each piece begins with a concept or story. Innovation is a key aspect, with Crews challenging traditional furniture conventions; an example is his Lilypad chair, which combines seating with an integrated table, reflecting a multi-functional design trend. He emphasizes extensive sketching, producing numerous drawings to refine ideas before final designs. The Terry Crews Collection features several signature pieces that exemplify this design philosophy. The Becca Lounge Chair is a fully upholstered, comfortable piece available in various sizes, suitable for both home and office settings. The Elevation Modular System offers flexible configurations of benches, ottomans, and tables, ideal for large, open spaces like building lobbies or open-plan offices, allowing for easy rearrangement. The Ibis Sofa, inspired by the sacred Egyptian ibis, is a two or three-seater lounge with a gentle curve and an extended tubular stainless steel frame that accommodates arm pillows, merging art with functionality. The Aire Bench is a minimalist, organically curved bench with a four-panel upholstered seat and saddle stitch detailing, serving as versatile seating or a unique coffee table alternative. Crews' entry into the furniture market has been well-received by design professionals and the public, with his collection debuting at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York and being picked up by retailers like Twentieth, Hive Modern, and YLiving.com. His work influences design trends by promoting narrative-driven creation, multifunctionality in high-end furniture, and the use of organic, flowing shapes, moving away from rigid designs. Unlike some celebrity-designed furniture lines, Crews is deeply involved in the creative process, ensuring originality and a cohesive design philosophy. His designs are seen as timeless compared to more trend-driven celebrity collaborations, drawing inspiration from historical and personal narratives rather than solely pop culture references. This commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship and innovative design positions Terry Crews' furniture as a distinctive blend of style and comfort in modern home furnishings. #TerryCrews #BernhardtDesign #FurnitureDesign #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #ArtisticExpression #ModernFurniture #LuxuryRealEstate

The article describes the transformation of a 24th-floor penthouse at the Alagon on Bayshore, spearheaded by luxury designer Rob Bowen. The design approach, termed “high gloss meets high fashion,” draws inspiration from fashion houses, Parisian salons, and cinematic interiors. The four-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence is conceived to function as both a comfortable family home and an impressive venue for entertaining. The design incorporates panoramic views of Tampa Bay from the primary suite and salon, utilizing minimal drapery and strategic lighting to blend the exterior with the interior. The foundational aesthetic of the penthouse is a high-contrast black and white palette, which is then overlaid with vibrant jewel tones such as magenta, eggplant, and emerald, along with gold accents to introduce dramatic flair. A significant technical hurdle during the project involved applying black lacquer on a large scale, a process where even minor imperfections could compromise the intended smooth finish. The interior features custom lighting fixtures by Gabriel Scott and Lindsay Adelman, which serve a dual purpose as functional lighting and sculptural art pieces. Textural depth and visual interest are achieved through various elements, including flocked houndstooth wallcovering, shimmering Lucite panels, woven metal drapery in the salon, and glass bead wallpaper with a gold-leaf overlay. Among the various meticulously designed spaces, the rotunda stands out as Bowen's personal favorite, characterized by its dramatic architectural presence, custom marble floors, and glossy black walls. Despite the opulent design elements, a key objective was to create a home that authentically reflects the clients' personalities while maintaining both livability and a visually unforgettable atmosphere. Specific areas of the penthouse are detailed further. The kitchen features a black and white scheme with bronze accents on columns and backsplashes, complemented by white cabinets from T2theS Design + Build. A handmade Gabriel Scott chandelier, an eggplant Minotti sofa, and kitchen stools upholstered in a kelly-green crocodile pattern add distinctive touches. In the dining room, an acrylic room divider by T2theS, designed to mimic waves, helps minimize visual distractions. This space is furnished with magenta Kyle Bunting Hide-upholstered chairs surrounding a Baxter table, all illuminated by a Lindsay Adelman chandelier. The salon offers stunning waterfront views framed by woven metal curtains, featuring a gold leather and black velvet Holly Hunt sofa, a Gabriel Scott chandelier, and a custom Kyle Bunting rug. The black, white, and gold theme extends into the primary bathroom, which boasts SICIS mosaic flooring and a custom T2theS makeup vanity with bronze and crystal hardware. The his-and-hers closets in the primary bedroom showcase French white oak flooring, stained black and sealed. His closet includes black lacquer drawers and hide wallcovering, while hers features a Maya Romanoff glass-beaded wallcovering with gold leaf accents. The primary bedroom itself incorporates the same beaded and gold leaf wallcovering, an upholstered faux-chinchilla headboard, a Bernhardt bed, a Mongolian lamb rug, and two Bernhardt nightstands, all contributing to the cohesive and luxurious design narrative. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #RobBowenDesign #PenthouseDesign #TampaBay #HighFashionInteriors #CustomLighting #TexturalDesign

This article details the transformation of two historic Dumbo paint factories, an 1891 Brick and Timber building and a 1921 Daylight Factory, into modern residential lofts. The project, a collaboration between Alloy's architecture team and Rebecca Robertson of RR Interior, aimed to preserve the original façades and textures of the centuries-old buildings while updating their functionality to meet contemporary housing needs. The resulting apartments feature unique open floor plans, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, designed to enhance the living experience in the Brooklyn borough. Rebecca Robertson, drawing from her own experience living in a historic New York City loft, spearheaded the interior design. Her approach focused on creating distinct living areas within the expansive open spaces through strategic furniture groupings and rugs. A unified color palette, featuring warm tones accented with hints of black, was chosen to complement the strong architectural elements, particularly the windows. Robertson emphasized layering soft, organic textures, furnishings, décor, and accessories to cultivate a harmonious and lived-in atmosphere. A significant aspect of her design philosophy involved sourcing items from small vendors and artisans, resulting in individualized artwork and fixtures that give each piece a sense of discovered uniqueness. The design process also addressed the evolving role of the home, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need for multi-functional spaces. Robertson's floor plans incorporate separate corners for working, studying, and socializing. A notable innovation is a flexible worktable, developed in collaboration with Braga Woodworks, which can be reconfigured into two individual desks, catering to the growing need for adaptable home office solutions. Further design highlights in the model apartment include custom stools by Skagerak in the entryway and Thonet dining chairs accompanying a table crafted by Braga Woodworks. The space is elegantly illuminated by an Artemide chandelier, a design by Neri and Hu. Additional thoughtful touches include an Ethnicraft credenza and a plush Côte à Coast rug in the entryway, complemented by a Norm Architects oval mirror. The second bedroom features cube shelves, offering customizable storage solutions. The master bedroom showcases a tambour wood wall and an extended headboard that ingeniously conceals an Avera custom closet designed by The Container Store. The master bathroom is designed to evoke a spa-like ambiance, adding to the luxurious feel of the lofts. The exterior of 168 Plymouth, one of the transformed buildings, is also presented, along with a rendering of a future penthouse suite, demonstrating the project's comprehensive approach to modernizing historical architecture. #ResidentialLofts #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #DumboBrooklyn #AdaptiveReuse #RebeccaRobertsonInteriors #AlloyDevelopment #UrbanRenovation #FlexibleLiving