House Tour: Society Hill ‘Bauhaus’ built for Larry Magid

The Wallis family, consisting of Jenna, an internationally acclaimed interior designer and owner of Jenna Wallis Interior Design, and her husband Ed, purchased a 1940s English cottage in the Hedgemoor neighborhood of Memphis with a vision to transform it into a serene and classic retreat for their family, including their two boys. Despite its charming exterior, the cottage required extensive renovation to accommodate a modern family while preserving its original character. After living in the house for about four years, the Wallises engaged Ryan Anderson of RKA Investments, a Memphis builder known for restoring older homes, and architect Charles Shipp to lead the renovation. Jenna's design philosophy centered on blending the old with the new, maintaining the home's classic charm while introducing contemporary elements. A significant challenge involved literally lifting the existing structure to create an open, airy space. The renovation team, including Ryan Anderson's business partner Chris Clark, worked collaboratively to achieve Jenna's vision, which included raising the living area's 9-foot ceilings to 11 feet to enhance natural light and spaciousness. Eight-foot windows were installed, flanking a custom fireplace, above which a vibrant painting by Atlanta artist Sally King Benedict became a focal point. Key areas of the home were meticulously redesigned. The kitchen was transformed with custom cabinetry extending to the ceiling for maximum storage, a beveled subway tile backsplash, and honed Carrara marble countertops. Jenna opted for unlacquered brass hardware, which develops a natural patina over time, to align with the home's original aesthetic. A breakfast nook, connecting the living area and kitchen, features sleek white walls, a streamlined banquette, and a rustic farmhouse table complemented by a brass globe chandelier. A framed 1966 Andy Warhol-designed Campbell's Soup dress, inherited from Ed's grandmother, adds a whimsical touch to this space. Throughout the living areas, white walls serve as a gallery for the Wallises' extensive art collection, which includes pieces by Memphis artist Megan Hurdle. In the parlor, a soft mint green ceiling, inspired by one of Hurdle's mixed-media works, adds a subtle color accent. Jenna's favorite space, her downstairs study, is distinguished by pale, high-gloss blue lacquered walls, a French pedestal desk, whimsical peacock figurines, and a modern brass starburst chandelier. Custom-built bookshelves by RKA Investments house the family's book collection, while art consultant Anna Wunderlich assisted in curating and displaying the family's diverse artwork, including a collection of oils and watercolors from Paris. The guest bedroom features a bold coral lattice wallpaper on an accent wall, framing an upholstered headboard, alongside French dressers and draperies made from Jim Thompson silk. The master bath was conceived as a spa-like retreat, with gray and white marble, built-in mirrors, millwork surrounding a white vanity, and elegant brass hardware. Antique light fixtures were incorporated to maintain the home's period charm. The renovation extended to the exterior, with Ryan Anderson and his team salvaging stone to create a cozy fireplace on a spacious, screened-in porch, which has become an ideal gathering spot for the Wallis family and friends. The project culminated in a home that perfectly blends classic charm with modern functionality, fulfilling Jenna's five-year vision. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #MemphisHomes #CottageRenovation #JennaWallisDesign #RKAInvestments #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollection

Matthew Segal, a San Diego architect, designed an award-winning concrete-and-glass home for his family in Mission Hills, moving from a city-centric lifestyle in Little Italy to a more suburban, nature-adjacent environment. The new residence, situated at the edge of a canyon, offers proximity to wildlife while maintaining access to urban amenities. The property was a challenging "flag" lot, chosen due to its steep terrain behind an existing modern home. Segal's design approach involved navigating complex city permitting processes and convincing authorities that the three-story structure, with its lowest level tucked into the hillside, complied with height and scale regulations. This project was completed in 11 months, showcasing Segal's integrated process that involves a collaborative team of specialists. Segal’s design received a 2024 Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects, San Diego. The house draws inspiration from modernist architectural principles, including those of Le Corbusier, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, and post-war Case Study Houses. A significant feature is the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, exemplified by the 15-by-42-foot patio accessible through large sliding glass doors. Italian porcelain tile floors extend seamlessly from the interior to the exterior, enhancing the continuous flow of space. The central living area features a long kitchen with an island, complemented by ceiling-height walnut cabinets that discreetly store household items. The interior is furnished with iconic modernist pieces like Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona chairs and a Florence Knoll sofa, along with Segal’s custom-designed steel-and-glass dining table. The home is organized across three levels. The middle floor hosts the main living areas, including the kitchen, dining space, and a children's play area. A concealed elevator connects all floors. The lower level accommodates the primary suite and the children’s bedrooms, intentionally designed to be close to each other. The primary bedroom and en-suite bathroom feature glass walls, offering extensive canyon views. The top level contains the garage, a guest room, and a compact office, complete with engineered walnut floors, a vintage rosewood desk, and artwork by Segal’s sister, Austen Segal. Fire safety was a primary concern for Segal due to the home's proximity to the canyon. The design incorporates thick concrete walls and fire-resistant glass panels with inert gas to diffuse heat, enhancing the structure's resilience against potential fires. Beyond safety, the concrete construction provides energy efficiency through its thermal mass. The home also uses rooftop solar panels to generate nearly all its electricity, even accounting for electric vehicle charging. The Mission Hills location offers a balanced lifestyle, with convenient access to schools, a neighborhood park, local businesses, and Matthew’s wife April’s holistic pharmacy in Little Italy, and Matthew’s shared office in Barrio Logan. Segal expressed a strong sense of permanence about the home, noting its unique blend of wilderness and urban accessibility. The family enjoys hearing owls and observing coyotes, creating a distinct connection to nature while remaining minutes away from downtown San Diego. The architecture is designed to harmonize with the canyon landscape, light, and sky, providing dynamic and ever-changing vistas. The minimalist design is warmed by inviting materials, textures, and strategic splashes of color, making it a functional and aesthetically pleasing residence that supports the family's desire for a balanced, nature-integrated lifestyle. #ArchitecturalDesign #MissionHills #MatthewSegal #ModernHome #CanyonLiving #SanDiegoArchitecture #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving

Julia Kramer, a former Bon Appétit editor, and her husband, Zach Kaplan, purchased a Craftsman home in Koreatown, Los Angeles, sight unseen during the early days of the pandemic. The decision was primarily influenced by a stained-glass peacock window in the dining room, which resonated with their family's experience visiting live peacocks at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This personal connection served as a significant sign, making the long-distance purchase feel destined. The couple, still residing in their two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper West Side, relied on an L.A.-based friend to view the property shortly after it was listed before making an offer. Following the purchase, and with only six weeks until their move, Kramer and Kaplan enlisted the help of Jamie Haller, an experienced Craftsman restorer and shoe designer. Haller's primary task was to modernize certain aspects of the home while also stripping away inappropriate additions, such as built-in speaker systems in the living room and kitchen, and numerous recessed lights. The goal was to preserve the original character and 'good stuff' of the Craftsman style. Kramer, who was largely put off by the ubiquity of newly remodeled kitchens featuring subway tile and open shelves during her house hunt, found the untouched, wood-heavy kitchen of this home particularly appealing. She expressed a preference for living without common countertop materials like marble and granite and appreciated the kitchen's separation from other rooms, allowing her personal space while cooking. Restoration efforts in the kitchen focused on subtle yet crucial updates. Haller oversaw the replacement of awning window chains with historically accurate hardware, a task that required considerable effort to source and install. She emphasized 'restraint' in the renovation process, focusing on making the space functional without sacrificing its original charm. A carpenter was brought in to repair the track of the old-fashioned bread box's garage door, ensuring its safe operation. While the kitchen lacks modern amenities like soft-close hinges, it retains a distinct 'soul' that appealed to the owners. One of the most challenging projects was the living room, where plaster walls had been covered in blue silk dupioni fabric and secured with an estimated 45,000 staples. Removing these staples was a laborious process, taking a week of manual effort. The focal point of the revitalized living room became Kramer’s vintage coffee table, a 1stdibs acquisition, which uniquely functions as a champagne and shrimp cocktail station, with its inverted center perfectly accommodating her ice bucket. Haller also had to source new lighting fixtures, as the previous owners took the originals. She turned to a salvage shop in Los Angeles known for preserving lights from Old Hollywood celebrity homes, finding an antique sconce for the guest bedroom’s salvaged sink that once belonged to Buster Keaton. Distinguishing this Craftsman from others, the home features dark, purple-hued mahogany wood rather than the typical red-orange Douglas fir. This unique wood tone harmonizes surprisingly well with subtle pink accents, such as the original fireplace grout and the new dining room walls, which were painted a soft dusty lavender-gray. Haller noted that the natural light interacting with these elements creates a warm glow. Due to the tight renovation schedule, restoring the painted wood trim was not feasible. Instead, it was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s dark navy shade, Railings, to achieve a cohesive look. In contrast to the home’s more vibrant areas, the main bedroom adopted a softer palette, transforming its previous purple walls into a serene cream. Kramer, typically drawn to maximalist designs, was swayed by Haller’s vision for a neutral, tranquil space. The bedroom renovation included creating two closets on either side of the bed by reallocating space from an adjacent children’s room, and adding a built-in reading nook with a tufted cushion, which serves as Kramer’s preferred work-from-home spot. For the children’s bedrooms, Kramer and Haller exercised a different form of restraint, opting for allover wallpapers with prints that strike a balance between kid-friendly and adult-approved aesthetics. Kramer expressed her desire to postpone 'ugly child spaces,' choosing whimsical crane designs by House of Hackney for her youngest son's room and a floral print by the same brand for the bathroom. She found that the numerous built-ins in the large bathroom helped to break up the busy floral pattern effectively. The various bird motifs throughout the home, from the initial peacock window to the crane wallpaper, have become a personal symbol of good fortune for Kramer. #HomeTour #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SightUnseenPurchase #HistoricPreservation #VintageDecor #FamilyHome

Liddicoat & Goldhill, a London-based architectural firm, designed the Tailored House, a brick and concrete townhouse located in Kensington. The house was built on a site damaged by bombing during the Second World War, completing an existing terrace of Victorian townhouses. The project faced numerous design challenges and restrictions, including a tight budget, the risk of flooding, party wall negotiations, an irregularly shaped plot, and the crucial need to preserve the rights to light for adjacent properties. These constraints significantly shaped the final design of the dwelling. The Tailored House integrates seamlessly with its Victorian neighbors, maintaining the building line, while also incorporating contemporary elements. A key feature of the design is a fully glazed rear section, which plays a pivotal role in allowing ample daylight to penetrate both the new house and the adjacent properties. This innovative glazing solution is paired with a steeply angled roof, specifically designed to maximize natural light access for the homes behind the new structure. The rear section is also strategically cranked outwards, a response to the irregular shape of the plot, ensuring optimal space utilization. The building's exterior features a blend of traditional and modern materials. The street-facing elevation echoes the style of the adjoining terrace through its layered arrangement. Pale brick, chosen for its historical connection to London's brick construction, is used prominently. Contemporary details such as smooth concrete surfaces define the entrance bay and first-floor windows, with the same material extending to window reveals and an angular relief pattern on a cornice, adding modern touches to the facade. The rear elevation, characterized by a sheer brickwork wall, transitions into a screen of metal fins. These fins cleverly conceal glazing, providing both privacy and filtered light to the occupants and their neighbors. Internally, the design emphasizes continuity and natural light. Bronze-framed windows are set into the angled upper part of the end elevation, while glazed doors from the living room open onto a small courtyard. This courtyard incorporates a glass floor, allowing light to filter down to the kitchen and dining area located on the level below. A skylight in the steeply sloped roof illuminates a stairwell situated along the party wall. Additional glazed roof panels further enhance natural light, reaching a small bathroom at the front of the house and a staircase descending to the basement. Material continuity is maintained inside the house with brick walls, mirroring the exterior. These textured surfaces are complemented by wooden flooring and joinery featuring a strong grain, which introduces warmth to the light-filled spaces. The name "The Tailored House" reflects the complexity and bespoke nature of the design, which, despite its intricate fabrication, presents a recognizable, elegant, and simple overall appearance. However, upon closer inspection, the individuality and material richness of the house become apparent, akin to a finely tailored suit. Liddicoat & Goldhill, based in Dalston, east London, have a portfolio that includes other notable projects such as an oak-screened staircase extension to a south London home and a garden cabin with an angular roof. #LondonArchitecture #TownhouseDesign #BrickConstruction #ContemporaryArchitecture #GlazedFacades #ResidentialDesign #UrbanHousing #Kensington #ArchitecturalInnovation

The Ghillanyi House, designed by Harry Seidler for the Ghillanyi family in 1957, is revisited to assess its longevity as a significant piece of Modernism. Located in the leafy suburb of Beaumont, Adelaide, it stands as the sole extant Seidler house in the city. The article reflects on the house's evolution over more than fifty years, highlighting how it has been sensitively adapted by various owners to accommodate contemporary lifestyles while retaining its original character and connection to the environment. The current owners, who have lived in the house for ten years, are preparing to leave, having engaged in a respectful and robust dialogue with the dwelling, enhancing its identity while integrating modern standards. The house's provenance is meticulously documented, with information sourced from the University of South Australia Architecture Museum, confirming details such as its construction cost (£8136) and completion date (July 1959). The construction was supervised by Dickson and Platten, a prominent Adelaide practice of the time, known for its approach to projects from first principles, attention to craft, and materiality, akin to Seidler's philosophy. Correspondence between Seidler and Dickson and Platten reveals a shared commitment to simplicity and functional a-stylism, with Seidler emphasizing "neatest and cleanest" junctions and "clean and simple design" for fittings. The material palette, while diverse in texture—including random rubble, smooth face brick, and off-form concrete—was initially pale and subdued, aligning with Seidler's subtly antipodean interpretation of Modernism's cool white box. Over time, the Ghillanyi House has become more vibrant, featuring painted accent walls, primary-hued curtains in children's bedrooms, and abstract external murals. Its accommodation has also expanded with the addition of a bedroom and bathroom, transforming the original main bedroom into a children's rumpus room, reflecting contemporary family living trends. Despite these alterations, the fundamental plan, which delineates distinct public and private zones finely tuned to orientation and outdoor access, remains intact. Seidler's original built-in furniture continues to offer clarity, utility, and detail, with elements like a suspended silver ash cabinet with recessed uplighting still present. The kitchen, being the most technologically driven space, has seen the most significant updates, with materials like Caesarstone and charcoal ceramic tile replacing older finishes, and the work triangle reconfigured for modern appliances and better traffic flow. The house exemplifies passive climate control through its substantial overhangs and thermally responsive materials. Its ability to naturally cool interiors with gully breezes, even during Adelaide's hot weather, underscores its thoughtful design, despite the recent installation of air conditioning due to challenges in integrating services within its exposed structure. The enduring quality of the construction is evident in the minimal signs of wear, a testament to its robust design in Adelaide's reactive soil conditions. The volumetric composition of the house, described by a young occupant as resembling a "block of cheese," with its strong shapes, distinctive foliage, and high-contrast light and shade, maintains its architectural integrity while having acquired a rich patina over the decades. The article concludes by pondering the extent to which Seidler's design successfully challenged architectural pretensions in suburbia, ultimately suggesting that the Ghillanyi House achieved its lofty aim of being an avant-garde dwelling that truly feels like home. #GhillanyiHouse #HarrySeidler #Modernism #ResidentialArchitecture #AdelaideArchitecture #ArchitecturalPreservation #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #PassiveDesign

The article highlights the listing of Case Study House #16, designed by architect Craig Ellwood, for $5.395 million in Bel Air, Los Angeles. This midcentury modern residence, built in 1953, is noted as the only Case Study House by Ellwood that remains in its original condition. The property is situated at 1811 Bel Air Road, offering a rare opportunity to own a significant piece of architectural history that embodies the quintessential California lifestyle. The Case Study House Program, launched by Arts & Architecture magazine in 1945, aimed to introduce innovative concepts for efficient and modern living. House #16 is an exemplary representation of this initiative. It features a design that integrates seamlessly with its environment, characterized by its airy, seemingly floating structure, glass walls, and pavilion-like form. The design emphasizes a direct connection to nature, with abundant natural light and an open layout that extends to the outdoors and the garden. With a footprint of 1,664 square feet, the house includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a laundry area, and a two-car carport. The lot size spans 0.19 acres. A notable feature is its elevated site near the top of Bel Air Road, which provides panoramic city and ocean views to the south and west. The meticulous documentation of the Case Study Houses allowed the current owner to restore much of the property to its original specifications and finishes, ensuring its historical integrity. Interior details include a flexible space near the living area that can be privatized with a curtain, and walls that stop about a foot shy of the roof, fostering a sense of connection between rooms. The home's steel framing is painted red, adding a distinctive pop of color. The living room features a fireplace that shares a chimney with an outdoor fireplace, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living spaces. The property is listed by Veronika Sznajder of Crosby Doe Associates and represents a unique chance to acquire a meticulously maintained midcentury time capsule that remains true to the architect's original vision. #CraigEllwood #CaseStudyHouse #MidcenturyModern #BelAirRealEstate #ArchitecturalHistory #LosAngelesHomes #RealEstateListing #ModernArchitecture

The 2021 Luxury Home Tour features an elegant estate in Eden Prairie, designed and built by Michael Paul Design + Build. This residence is tailored to accommodate a family with three active children, integrating various recreational spaces while maximizing the scenic views of its elevated lot overlooking the Minnesota River. The property spans 6,810 square feet and includes five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, embodying a Midwest modern architectural style. Key design elements prioritize both functionality for an active family and aesthetic appeal. The home is equipped with a sport court, a rock climbing wall, an indoor faux-ice hockey rink, and an outdoor pool. Each child also has their individual space within the home. To withstand heavy foot traffic, low-maintenance wood flooring was installed throughout. The interior design, a collaboration between Michael Paul Design + Build and Talley Jane Interiors, focuses on creating seamless transitions between clean lines and rustic elements. Architectural details include a striking metal floating staircase featuring rustic treads and an all-metal railing. White oak flooring contributes to a casual yet elegant atmosphere, complemented by a mix of various wood finishes, bright enamel woodwork, and colored cabinets. The lower level is designed for entertainment, featuring a large bar that opens directly to the backyard pool area. One of the most notable features of the property is the private master suite. Michael Laumann, CEO and owner of Michael Paul Design + Build, highlights the exceptional location of the home, referring to it as one of the best lots in the southwest metro. The master deck offers expansive and impressive views of the river valley. The integration of robust recreational facilities with sophisticated design ensures the home meets the needs of its active occupants while providing a luxurious living environment. #LuxuryHomeTour #MichaelPaulDesignBuild #EdenPrairie #MidwestModern #FamilyHomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #SportCourt #OutdoorLiving

This article details the six-month renovation of an 18th-century townhome in Society Hill, Philadelphia, undertaken by a long-time couple who were becoming empty nesters. After two decades of raising a family, the couple decided to update their residence, which was originally built in 1789. Designer Michele Plachter spearheaded the project, focusing on a fixture-and-finishes upgrade for the living and dining rooms, the front entry, and the master bathroom. While the home was largely in good condition, the master bathroom underwent a significant overhaul, a task for which Plachter collaborated with Teknika Design Group in Old City. The clients desired an interior that was both masculine and vibrant, leading Plachter to incorporate bold blue and orange hues, diverse patterns, and striking light fixtures. The design approach aimed to introduce a modern and youthful touch while respecting the historical context of the home, resulting in a sophisticated yet contemporary aesthetic. Plachter emphasizes the importance of a functional space plan as the initial step, followed by the integration of distinctive design elements to enhance the overall appeal. In the living room, updates included disguising radiators with cabinetry-like covers and installing an Arteriors Ramirez chandelier, chosen for its modern contrast within the traditional setting. Jim Thompson Fabrics patterns were used on a wing chair, echoing the design of a custom area rug. The dining room features two Robert Abbey Bling chandeliers, positioned above a Bausman dining table to introduce sparkle and compensate for limited natural light. A wall-mounted Made Goods Jilt mirror was strategically placed to further illuminate the space, complementing the blue Thibaut wallpaper. The front entrance received minor yet impactful updates, including painting the exterior door a bright red and adding new lighting fixtures to refresh the home's facade. Custom built-ins were incorporated into the living room on either side of the fireplace, designed to maximize space and enhance the room's utility. These built-ins are backed with a blue Candice Olson wallpaper, adding a layer of visual interest. The renovation successfully transformed the historic property, blending its classic charm with a vibrant, modern sensibility suitable for the next phase of the homeowners' lives. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SocietyHill #HistoricalHome #MichelePlachter #ModernTraditional #CustomDesign #LuxuryInteriors

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

The "Hug House" by FIGR Architecture & Design, completed in 2025 in Australia, is an architectural project focusing on spatial layering, material richness, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. The design concept revolves around a central courtyard, which functions as a "green heart" to ensure privacy while allowing natural light and ventilation to permeate the residence. This approach creates a sanctuary-like environment, promoting a deep connection with the natural surroundings. Key design elements and features of the Hug House include a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that interact with the central courtyard. The project emphasizes visual and physical porosity, allowing residents to experience the changing light and air throughout the day. Material selections contribute to the richness of the design, likely incorporating natural textures and a palette that complements the Australian landscape. The integration of indoor and outdoor areas is achieved through large openings and strategic placement of living spaces that extend into the courtyard, blurring the boundaries between built form and nature. The project details indicate a 230 m² area, suggesting a moderately sized single-family dwelling. Collaboration was a significant aspect of its creation, involving industrial designer Corey Baker, JP Building Group PTY LTD for the collaborative build, Fusion Engineering Group for structural engineering, James Wallace as the landscape consultant, and Oliver Smith as the lead carpenter/craftsman. ARCH STYLING, led by Cat Brown, was responsible for the interior styling. These collaborations highlight a multidisciplinary approach to achieving the architectural vision. Photographs by Tom Blachford capture the essence of the Hug House, showcasing its design principles. The imagery typically focuses on how light interacts with the spaces, the quality of materials, and the connection to the outdoors. The project is categorized under 'Houses' and is located in Australia, reflecting a contemporary Australian architectural style that prioritizes environmental responsiveness and comfortable living. In summary, the Hug House exemplifies a modern residential design that prioritizes a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature. Its central courtyard, material choices, and indoor-outdoor flow are integral to its identity as a light-filled, airy, and deeply connected living space. The project represents a collaborative effort to deliver a dwelling that serves as a private retreat while maintaining an open and engaging atmosphere. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Australia #FIGRArchitectureAndDesign #CourtyardHouse #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture

This article details the design and construction of a new 4,000-square-foot residence built on a sand dune along Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline in Saugatuck by architect Kevin Toukoumidis, founding principal of dSPACE Studio. The project began with the challenge of a 4-acre site, where zoning regulations limited the buildable area to a mere 40-by-50-foot footprint. Furthermore, a 2007 fire had decimated the undeveloped dune, necessitating extensive replanting of native vegetation such as dune grass, junipers, and cacti to stabilize the landscape and eventually obscure the structure naturally. The design philosophy aimed to blur the lines between architecture, art, and nature, creating a home that responds innovatively to coastal living amidst sand hills. The residence was designed to sit lightly on its constricted footprint, appearing as a single-story structure from the entry but revealing a full-height glazed facade towards the lake as the land slopes away. The ultra-thin steel-frame roof, though appearing flat, subtly slopes upward to maximize views of the sky and water. From the shore, only the upper portion of the house is visible, characterized by a low-slung composition clad in sand-color stucco and sheltered by broad eaves lined with amber-toned hemlock planks, which integrate the structure into the natural setting. Connecting to nature was a primary goal, leading to the creation of abundant outdoor spaces, including a two-tier ipe deck with distinct dining and lounging areas, a slender lap-pool terrace, and an upper-level lake-facing balcony. These outdoor areas are paved with tawny porcelain stoneware, a material consistently used for interior floors and countertops, further linking the indoor and outdoor environments. A key design element is the entry courtyard, conceived as a space for welcome, transition, and respite, featuring a central ginkgo tree. The courtyard is enclosed by a palisade of rotatable Cor-Ten panels that act as a kinetic sculpture and front gate. These 1⁄2-inch-thick steel vanes can be angled to frame specific views of the house or the forested hillside, while also providing shelter from the wind. A pergola-like roof extension with fixed aluminum louvers defines the courtyard as an outdoor room and offers protection from intense midday sun. A fire bowl, chairs, and a custom bench with a Cor-Ten wine bottle holder create a hospitable setting for outdoor entertaining. The home's interior layout includes an upper level with a great room flanked by the balcony and pool terrace, a glass-enclosed dining room, and the main bedroom with an adjoining screened porch. The lower floor, emerging from the dune, houses two guest bedrooms with a shared patio and glass-walled showers overlooking the water, a bunk room, and a flexible room currently used as a home gym. The interior material and color palettes are deliberately limited, featuring porcelain stoneware, oak, and painted plaster, to create a sense of calmness and uniformity. This minimalist approach ensures that the lake and landscape remain the focal points, enjoyed through extensive eco-friendly triple-pane glazing, including a 30-foot-long wall of sliding doors in the great room. Striking design pieces, such as Konstantin Grcic's Noctambule pendant fixture over the kitchen island, blend subtly with the expansive views. Furniture, including contemporary pieces, modernist classics, and custom built-ins, is elegantly low-key and functional, such as Hans Wegner's Elbow chairs and Pierre Paulin swivel chairs, which are chosen for their ability to maximize engagement with the natural surroundings. The home seamlessly merges architecture with the natural environment, offering a tranquil retreat that evolves with the landscape. #LakeMichiganHome #Saugatuck #dSPACEStudio #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #CoastalLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryHomes

The "Gingerbread House" in Larchmont, a historic summer cottage built in 1872 near Manor Beach, underwent a comprehensive interior redesign to suit an active young family with three daughters. Designer Laurie Scovotti was tasked with lightening the home's interiors while preserving its unique character, which includes rich millwork and whimsical architectural details. The primary directive was to create a brighter, more youthful, and modern feel within the Victorian Gothic structure. Scovotti achieved this by juxtaposing the home's original architecture with relaxed, clean-lined furnishings and a vibrant palette of colors and patterns. Blue tones were established as a grounding hue, reflecting the family's passion for sailing and the home's coastal proximity, complemented by accents of pinks, greens, and floral motifs. The exterior also received a fresh update, with a classic white complemented by light blue trim, following a collaboration with color consultant Debra Kling. The large living room was cleverly divided into two distinct areas. One section was designed for intimate conversations around the fireplace, featuring deep-blue velvet chairs and an airier feel created by a lighter-colored stone mantel surround. The homeowners' existing art pieces, including watery prints and a colorful painting, were integrated into the decor. The other side of the living room, bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, evokes a summery ambiance with light blues and pinks, anchored by a large blue coffee table and softened by subtly patterned drapes. Dark crown molding in several rooms was painted to reduce visual weight, though a prominent wood beam in the living room ceiling was retained. In the dining room, a dramatic "Inisfree" wallpaper by Carrier and Company for Lee Jofa served as the foundational design element. The low ceiling was visually elevated by painting it in Benjamin Moore Smoke, a shade also applied to the millwork around the mantel, which itself received a fresh coat of white paint. The space was kept calm and neutral with a wool-and-jute rug, a delicate glass chandelier, and refined dining chairs, with rounded doorways providing elegant transitions. The former passthrough area was transformed into a functional bar room, blending traditional elements, such as the homeowners' rug, with mid-century pieces like a rattan bar cabinet and leather chairs. The walls, painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Jamestown Blue,” contribute to a relaxed lounging atmosphere. The husband's office was designed to balance wood-paneled walls with a bright blue ceiling, and heavy curtains were replaced with unlined woven shades. A metal-and-glass desk adds a modern touch, and built-in shelves display personal items like sailing trophies and books. A hallway connecting bedrooms was updated into a vibrant lounge space, featuring durable vinyl grass cloth on the walls, a cleverly concealed electrical panel behind artwork, and an array of pillows in various prints and textures to add brightness and energy. Each of the daughters' rooms was personalized according to their preferred color themes, with Scovotti expanding on these palettes. For instance, the oldest daughter's room incorporated softened primary colors around a floral "Carly" wallpaper, providing a fun and adaptable space. Another girl's bedroom balanced dark window trim with modern furniture and bold patterns, utilizing blue-and-green fabrics and mint-green walls to create a peaceful yet youthful environment. The primary bedroom, a serene retreat for the couple, heavily features blues. The decor is light and bright, with dark blue accents on the bed frame and a Greek-key pattern on the drapes. A four-poster bed from Maiden Home is strategically placed to maximize the water view, and a comfortable armchair was reupholstered in a vintage Schumacher print. The wife's dressing room, located at the top of a spiral staircase, functions as an office with an impressive view. Drapes in a blue-and-white Schumacher fabric frame a circular window, and a burlwood desk lightens the room's darker wood elements. A nautical compass inlay on the floor adds a decorative touch. Scovotti also provides advice for incorporating color into a home, suggesting starting with impactful but not overwhelming additions like large artwork or upholstered chairs, rather than painting entire rooms, and encouraging individuals to trust their intuition regarding color choices. #HistoricHomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendlyDesign #LarchmontHome #LaurieScovotti #ColorPalette #ModernVictorian #CoastalDecor #HomeRedecoration

Architectural and interior design duo Arya and Michael Martin, founders of Studio OSKLO, have spent three years meticulously crafting their biophilic home in the Hollywood Hills. Their design philosophy focuses on integrating nature and minimalist aesthetics, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The property, located in the exclusive Doheny Estates, features an earthy color palette and natural materials, harmonizing with the surrounding granite hillside. The home incorporates elements typical of 1960s and 1970s Los Angeles architecture, such as architectural columns that conceal a series of interconnecting terraces accessible from every living space. A central atrium with a second-floor overlook brings greenery into the heart of the home, complemented by walls of rift oak and matte plaster detailing. Large retracting glass panels and expansive corridors create an open atmosphere, offering views of black olive trees, grasses, and aged stepping stones. The exterior uses white and cream tones to soften the columns, which are exposed to direct sunlight. Hinoki-inspired wooden paneling wraps the second-floor terraces to provide privacy. A limestone promenade leads to a zero-edge pool, a private dining garden with a fireplace, and a granite rock formation inspired by the luxury hotel Amangiri in Utah. Inside, the plasterwork is predominantly white, with exceptions in the taupe cloakroom and the oak-paneled TV room. The sitting room features a fireplace carved from a two-ton block of Paloma limestone, assembled on-site by 16 men. The kitchen boasts Calacatta Paonazzo marble, lending a vintage feel to the contemporary space, while a Calacatta gold marble bar adds warmth. Each bedroom is designed with a unique palette to enhance personality. The interiors are furnished with a rich mix of textures, including boucle, velvet, mohair, and linen. Irani carpets, inherited from Arya’s family, blend seamlessly with pieces by notable designers like Vladimir Kagan, Gio Ponti, and Rick Owens. The couple also incorporated collectibles from their travels to Madrid, São Paulo, and Marrakech, creating a curated global aesthetic. Many furniture pieces were custom-made by Studio OSKLO, characterized by gentle abstract shapes and textures. Accessories from Tokyo, sourced during their trips to Japan in 2021 and 2022, contribute an Eastern influence to the Los Angeles views. Pottery, 19th-century bronzes, and clay objects are artfully displayed on built-ins, shelving, and tabletops. The dining room features a Tamara de Lempicka artwork, and a 1960s-era bronze bust adorns the second-floor hallway, reflecting the Martins’ personal tastes and careful attention to every detail in their home. #BiophilicDesign #HollywoodHills #StudioOSKLO #MinimalistInteriors #NaturalMaterials #EarthyPalette #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesigners

The spring 2023 Richmond Homearama, hosted by the Home Building Association of Richmond, is set to showcase five custom-built luxury homes in the GreenGate community of Henrico County. This biennial event, running from June 3-18, offers the public an opportunity to tour these model homes, which are designed and furnished by Richmond-area custom home builders, incorporating the latest interior design trends. The event serves as a platform for builders to display their distinct capabilities and design philosophies. Danna Markland, CEO of the Home Building Association of Richmond, emphasizes that Homearama provides builders with a "blank canvas" to create and design homes specifically for the show, reflecting their unique style. The participating builders for this event include Southern Traditions Homes, River City Custom Homes, Eagle Construction of VA, Covenant Building & Design, and Biringer Builders. Each builder aims to blend traditional Southern architectural elements with contemporary design aesthetics. An example of this fusion is Eagle Construction's model home, developed in collaboration with CIRCLE Design Studio. Theresa Dorlini, lead interior designer at CIRCLE Design Studio, describes their approach as "modern intervention," where traditional structural bones are enhanced with modern materials and cabinetry. Key features of this home include a striking floating staircase, oversized bathroom tiles, and an illuminated wine column centrally located within the residence. Dorlini highlights that these design choices are intended to demonstrate that luxury is not solely dependent on square footage but can be achieved through thoughtful customization and meticulous attention to detail. This perspective caters to a changing demographic of homebuyers, particularly millennials, who prioritize unique and personalized features over sheer size. The homes are positioned in the $2 million to $3 million price range and will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the event. Throughout the Homearama, representatives from each building company will be present to interact with attendees, answer questions, and discuss design and construction options. Markland notes the rarity and significance of such events in the United States, attributing Richmond's ability to host Homearama to its robust homebuilding market. The event offers a unique opportunity for prospective homebuyers and design enthusiasts to explore emerging homebuilding styles and connect directly with multiple custom home builders in one convenient location. #Homearama #Homes #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #GreenGate #CustomBuild #HomeBuildingAssociationOfRichmond #LuxuryHomes

This blog post, part of "The Home Page" series, delves into various aspects of architecture, home design, and local events, beginning with a personal account of a visit to Chicago. The author describes the architectural style of Chicago Bungalows, specifically highlighting a recently purchased home by her son and daughter-in-law in the Montclare neighborhood. These bungalows, built between 1910 and 1930, are noted for their brick construction and prevalence, with over 80,000 such homes forming "bungalow belts" across the city. The narrative touches upon the affordability of these homes relative to Santa Barbara standards, emphasizing the satisfaction derived from the new homeowners' happiness. Further into the Chicago visit, the author recounts a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio in Oak Park. This historical site served as the residence where Wright and his wife raised their six children and where Wright commenced his architectural career, earning him recognition as a leading American architect. The tour was guided by a docent named Amelia, whose historical insights enriched the experience. The author particularly enjoyed envisioning the daily life of the Wright family and the evolution of Wright's professional practice within that space. Specific architectural details are highlighted, such as the lighting in the octagonal library where Wright met clients, and the thoughtful placement and design of the windows, which included both decorative elements and functional features like a deeply recessed window in the children's playroom designed to create a window seat and maximize natural light. Shifting focus from Chicago, the article transitions to an upcoming local event: the Ojai Holiday Home Tour and Marketplace. This event, scheduled for the weekend of November 16 and 17, is presented as an opportunity for readers to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. The tour will feature four distinct homes in the Ojai Valley, ranging from a collector’s cottage to an expansive orchard estate. A complimentary shuttle service will be provided to facilitate transportation between the featured homes. Concurrently, Libbey Park will host a holiday marketplace, complete with Santa Claus appearances and musical entertainment. The event serves as a fundraiser for the Ojai Music Festival, with tickets priced at $45. The article concludes with a general wish for readers to find joy in their day, positioning the Ojai event as a potential source of such joy. #ChicagoBungalows #FrankLloydWright #ArchitecturalTour #OjaiHolidayHomeTour #RealEstate #HomeDesign #Travel #Fundraiser

Courtyard Village at Raleigh Hills, an independent retirement living community, originated from a concept developed in 1981 by Larry Draper and his mother-in-law. Their initial idea was to create an alternative to traditional nursing homes or in-home care, focusing on an independent facility where residents could actively participate in its management and operations. This concept led to the establishment of the first building with 67 apartments, built on the principle of understanding and fulfilling residents' desires. Over the past four decades, Draper has expanded this independent retirement living concept, opening approximately a dozen communities, including Courtyard Village. Located in Portland, Courtyard Village stands out as an affordable and appealing option for retirees. The community, which opened in 1999, is situated on 4.5 acres in SW Portland and caters to individuals aged 62 and above who seek an active and independent lifestyle. It offers 183 comfortable apartment homes, each equipped with spacious kitchens featuring a standard-size oven, stovetop, dishwasher, and fridge. A notable aspect of its pricing structure is the absence of community fees, second-person fees, or other hidden costs, with all agreements being month-to-month to simplify the transition for residents. The community's location is strategically chosen for convenience, being close to major grocery stores like Fred Meyer and New Seasons Market, as well as various other shopping and dining establishments. It is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Portland, nestled in the southwest hills of Washington County, with easy access to Beaverton, West Slope, Progress, and Garden Home. The tranquil setting, surrounded by trees, offers proximity to Highways 26 and 217. Transportation is a key feature of Courtyard Village, providing shuttles to local grocery stores, the post office, banks, and specialty shops. Medical and dental appointment transportation is also available four days a week, highlighting the community's commitment to resident convenience. Courtyard Village offers flexible, optional meal plans, allowing residents to enjoy healthy and flavorful meals prepared by chefs in the dining room. The daily menus are designed to balance nutritional requirements with gourmet appeal, featuring a range of options from home-style favorites to classic French dishes. Salads, vegetables, fresh fruit, complimentary beverages, and ice cream are consistently available for residents and their guests. The community places a strong emphasis on social engagement, offering a wide array of activities such as weekly park walks, special holiday buffets, antique excursions, and art projects. Residents are actively encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions for new activities and programs, fostering a resident-driven environment. This approach is encapsulated by General Manager Joanie Ceballos, who emphasizes saying "yes" to resident ideas to ensure their wants are met. This resident-centric philosophy aims to provide a social and active lifestyle, allowing retirees to enjoy the comforts of home without the burdens of maintenance. #RetirementLiving #SeniorCare #IndependentLiving #PortlandOregon #CommunityLife #AffordableHousing #ResidentCentric #SeniorLifestyle

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation