This freshly-renovated $50M Upper East Side townhouse was Gloria Vanderbilt’s childhood home

Laura Collins, a designer with For Porter, transformed her 1958 rental bungalow in Calgary into a vibrant, English-inspired family home, largely by incorporating cherished heirlooms from her Grandmother Audey and embracing a bold pink color palette. Despite the property being a rental, Collins was determined to infuse it with character, drawing inspiration from its existing features like pink terrazzo floors in the primary bathroom and unique fluted glass in the entry. The home's layout, while somewhat unconventional with its chopped-up rooms, offered a kid-friendly environment, a significant improvement from their previous multi-level Victorian. Collins's design approach was deeply influenced by her grandmother's timeless taste, ensuring that even with modern updates, the pieces retained their original charm. She integrated a 100-year-old pine hutch into the dining room and a floral Laura Ashley sofa into her studio, items that once graced her grandmother's home. The designer’s love for color became evident as she navigated the landlord's only two painting restrictions: no purple or black. This led her to a pink-centric scheme, starting with the primary bathroom where she used Benjamin Moore’s Rosedale for the wall paneling and a lighter hue, Soulmate, above the molding. This bold decision marked a shift from years of muted interiors, as Collins decided to wholeheartedly embrace painting her house pink. Beyond the bathroom, Collins extended her colorful vision to other areas. The sunken den was painted in Benjamin Moore’s Amaryllis, while the library bookcases, custom-built by her father-in-law, received a coating of Savannah Clay. This terracotta-tinged shade was also applied to the adjacent sitting room after an initial attempt with a 'bubblegum' pink proved too sweet. Collins describes her aesthetic as walking a fine line between a colorful home and a 'funhouse,' but ultimately, the playful environment is designed for her children, reflecting this particular stage of their lives. She envisions a more muted aesthetic for a future era. Textiles play a significant role in Collins’s design, influenced by her background in fashion design and marketing. She frequently circulates a collection of pillows throughout the house and involves her children in the process. She is a proponent of finding deals on furnishings, like the $150 Parsons chairs in the den, which allows her to invest in fresh upholstery. This practice aligns with her admiration for English aesthetics, where furniture pieces are continually reupholstered and passed down through generations. The kitchen, however, presented a challenge, forcing Collins to minimize her belongings due to limited cabinet space, leading her to appreciate a more minimalist approach to kitchen essentials. The rental also features intriguing architectural details, such as clever built-in nooks and crannies, including a shoe cubby leading to the basement, suggesting the original homeowner was a millworker. Collins embraced these elements, even tackling a DIY painting project in the mudroom with Farrow & Ball’s Citron, an undertaking completed between nap times. The overall design emphasizes a personalized and joyful living space, demonstrating how a designer can transform a rental into a deeply personal home using inherited items, strategic color choices, and a focus on family life. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #RentalDecor #PinkInteriors #VintageFurniture #FamilyHome #DesignInspiration #ColorPalette #HeirloomFurniture

Ensemble Architecture undertook a comprehensive renovation of a late-19th-century wood-frame townhouse in Williamsburg, transforming it into a loft-like duplex for the owner and incorporating a separate rental unit on the ground floor. The project involved replacing every wall, ceiling, stair, floor, and window, alongside installing all-new mechanical systems. A notable feature of the property was its original 25-foot width and a historic passageway, once used for horses, which Ensemble Architecture ingeniously integrated into the new design. This former horse passageway was utilized for storage in the ground-floor rental unit, while on the upper levels, it contributed additional width to the owner's living space. This extra width allowed the designers to implement an unconventional stair placement, rotating it and pulling it away from the wall to run perpendicular to the typical direction, thereby significantly opening up the interior space. The custom steel and wood staircase now acts as a natural divider on the parlor level, separating the front living room from the dining room and kitchen located at the rear, which provides garden access through three new doors. The clients, involved in the music industry, desired a rustic-industrial aesthetic. This was achieved by exposing the existing wood ceiling joists on the parlor level and installing new reclaimed wood floors throughout the home, sourced from Tall Cotton Supply. The removal of dropped ceilings also helped to achieve considerable ceiling height in the parlor. Ensemble Architecture, founded by Elizabeth Roberts in 1998, also provided interior design services for the project. The living area features simple furnishings, including a pouf upholstered in Moroccan fabric and a vintage Moroccan rug. The custom steel staircase, with its thick solid-wood treads, was expertly fabricated by the general contractor, Tjun Industries, demonstrating high-quality millwork and metalwork. Basic porcelain lights, equipped with dimmers, are discreetly placed between the ceiling joists. In the dining area, mid-20th-century teak and woven wicker chairs complement a pedestal table designed by Eero Saarinen for Knoll. The compact kitchen is outfitted with a stainless steel Elkay sink, a Blanco Meridian faucet from Ferguson, and Metro subway tile from Nemo Tile. Pendant lights from ABC Carpet & Home illuminate the kitchen island, which features a Caesarstone countertop. A Wolf range completes the kitchen's amenities. A sliding barn door provides access to the master bedroom at the top of the stairs. The bathroom features a custom-built vanity by the general contractor, topped with black granite from C&B Marble. Kohler undermount sinks are paired with circular mirrored medicine cabinets from Home Depot and sconces from Schoolhouse Electric. Wall and floor tiles are from Nemo Tile, and California Faucets shower fixtures were sourced from Davis & Warshow. The entire renovation resulted in a highly functional and aesthetically cohesive home that respects its historical origins while embracing modern, loft-like living. #WilliamsburgTownhouse #HomeRenovation #LoftLikeHome #EnsembleArchitecture #InteriorDesign #BrooklynRealEstate #RusticIndustrial #CustomStaircase #ReclaimedWoodFloors

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

This blog post highlights a historic Park Slope townhouse located at 566 First Street, built in 1906 and currently on the market for $5.475 million. The 4,900-square-foot, four-story limestone home has undergone a restoration effort aimed at preserving its original character while integrating contemporary amenities. The interior of the townhouse showcases a wealth of historic details, including mahogany millwork, intricate plaster ceiling moldings, and stained-glass windows. Modern conveniences such as a dumbwaiter and integrated audio and lighting systems have been seamlessly incorporated into the design. The parlor floor features a grand living room, a central parlor, a formal dining room, and a modernized kitchen. A stunning carved mahogany central staircase serves as a focal point for this level. Both the dining room and center parlor are equipped with working gas fireplaces, featuring period fire baskets set against elegant marble slabs. The upgraded kitchen, situated at the rear of the parlor floor, benefits from ample natural light provided by large windows that overlook the private back garden. The third floor of the townhouse contains a formal study with its own gas fireplace, adjacent to a library adorned with carved mahogany columns and custom-made bookcases. The master bedroom, also on this floor, boasts an original stained-glass window and features heated stone floors. A glass door from the master bedroom provides access to a south-facing bluestone deck, which is planted with Mediterranean junipers and herbs. A dressing room with built-in closets connects to the study, offering practical and luxurious storage solutions. The fourth floor has been reconfigured to include two suites, each comprising a bedroom and an interconnected playroom or study area. These two suites are linked by a dressing room furnished with multiple rows of built-in closets. An additional guest suite is located on the garden floor, providing further accommodation options. Even the bathrooms retain historic charm, with one combining an original stained-glass window with updated fixtures. The article emphasizes that the townhouse offers an abundance of impressive interior details throughout its various levels, inviting readers to explore further through an accompanying gallery of images. #ParkSlope #Townhouse #HistoricHome #BrooklynRealEstate #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalDetails #HomeRestoration #NewYorkCity

This two-bedroom co-op at 345 West 70th Street on the Upper West Side, listed for $1.35 million, represents a successful blend of pre-war charm and contemporary design, offering a move-in-ready living space. The residence features a fresh renovation that integrates modern technology with classic architectural elements. Key design details include loft-like 10-foot beamed ceilings, wide plank pale grey hardwood floors, and exposed brick, contributing to a rustic yet sophisticated aesthetic. Ample storage solutions are incorporated throughout the apartment. The entry hall of the co-op opens into a spacious entertaining area, which encompasses the living room, dining room, and an open kitchen. This combined space is illuminated by four oversized windows, providing open southern views and an abundance of natural light. The renovation paid meticulous attention to detail, evidenced by the integration of smart home features; all lights and the air conditioning system are wired for control via smartphone or voice commands. The kitchen has been updated with gleaming new surfaces, offering generous counter space and storage. It is equipped with new, modern appliances, including a Bosch dishwasher and a five-burner gas range, catering to contemporary culinary needs. The apartment includes two bedrooms, alongside a custom-designed bathroom. This bathroom features an oversized rain head shower with Hansgrohe fixtures, a sculptural free-standing tub, and ceramic _trompe l’oeil_ floor tiles. Glass subway tiles line the walls, and a recessed medicine cabinet includes internal power outlets, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. An Electrolux washer and dryer are also included within the bathroom space. Storage is a prominent feature of the co-op, with extensive options throughout. This includes a dedicated entry area that functions as a mudroom, complete with a hall closet. An additional hall closet is available for coats, and both the master and second bedrooms are equipped with two generous closets. All closet spaces have been professionally outfitted by California Closets, maximizing organization and utility. The property offers a comfortable and technologically advanced living experience within a historic pre-war building. #UpperWestSide #PreWarCoOp #HomeRenovation #SmartHome #NewYorkRealEstate #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #LuxuryApartment #NYCArchitecture

Interior designer Susannah Talley, after moving from a 3,000-square-foot carriage house in Prides Crossing, Massachusetts, downsized to a 475-square-foot studio on the Upper East Side, which she affectionately refers to as her “treehouse.” This transition occurred 27 years ago. In 2008, Talley's experience with small-space living gained an additional dimension when she discovered an abandoned dollhouse and undertook its restoration. This project, detailed in her 2015 self-published book, *The Dollhouse: A Love Story*, became a shared creative endeavor with her husband, Truman “Mac” Talley, during his illness. The living room of Talley’s studio is designed to evoke the ambiance of a country home, featuring family portraits and comfortable chairs arranged around a decorative fireplace. This fireplace ingeniously conceals a flat-screen TV. The armchairs are upholstered in a mixed “Tree of Life” patterned fabric from Jofa, complemented by wall-to-wall carpeting from Patterson, Flynn & Martin. Talley offers practical advice for maximizing small spaces, such as utilizing floor-to-ceiling mirrored walls in strategic locations to create the illusion of greater depth. She emphasizes the importance of selecting furniture that is appropriately scaled for the space, advising against oversized sectional seating due to its potential to overwhelm a room and complicate the placement of reading lamps. Instead, she recommends comfortable club chairs paired with well-positioned reading lamps and movable ottomans over traditional sofas. Upon entering the studio, the inviting decor immediately conveys Talley's expertise in creating beautiful and welcoming environments. A notable design element is the decorative fireplace, which, upon closer inspection, reveals a crackling fire image displayed on a flat-screen TV. Above the fireplace hangs an unsigned family portrait. Talley ingeniously converted a closet space into a functional bar area. This space features checked skirting fabric from Schumacher, wallpaper from Cole and Sons at Jofa, and paint from Farrow & Ball. Talley advocates for varying wall surfaces through different wallpapers and paint colors to create the perception of distinct rooms within a small area. She also prefers wool wall-to-wall carpeting for its ability to hide dirt, eliminating the need for guests to remove their shoes, which she considers an imposition. Another clever design solution within the studio is a functional dressing table integrated into a deep window sill near the bed. This was achieved by inserting a “sandwich of decorative wallpaper within two curved pieces of glass,” with decorative trim providing a finished edge. Hidden right-angle brackets offer structural support for this feature. The dollhouse, found abandoned on the street, was a significant project for Talley. She recounts her immediate connection to the dollhouse, seeing it as an answer to her desire for a creative project. She meticulously sanded away crayon and marker scribbles, drilled holes for lighting using Christmas-tree lights, and painted the exterior a deep eggplant shade to harmonize with her apartment’s decor. Together with her husband, Mac, she embarked on furnishing and decorating the dollhouse’s rooms. Talley sourced miniature items for the dollhouse from The Tiny Dollhouse Store on East 78th Street, acquiring objects like a two-inch dog bed, a thimble-sized bunch of bananas, and a fist-sized baby grand piano. The dollhouse kitchen is meticulously detailed, complete with tiny pots, pans, plates, cookbooks, and a miniature bottle of wine. The dollhouse's boudoir features a black-and-gold japanned bed and matching chairs, a gift from her sister. The walls are adorned with deep pewter-blue damask, and the floor is covered with navy-blue felt serving as wall-to-wall carpeting. A purple cocktail coaster from India was repurposed as a bedspread, and an upside-down beaded votive holder functions as a perfectly scaled bedside table. A painting by Talley’s daughter, Expressionist painter Isabelle Peabody, hangs on the wall. The dollhouse also includes a miniature menagerie of four-legged friends, completing the domestic scene. This project became a poignant and creative outlet, providing a miniature world within their real-life small space. #homeDesign #smallSpaces #interiorDesign #studioApartment #dollhouseRenovation #decoratingTips #creativeLiving #upperEastSide #SusannahTalley

Two adjacent 19th-century carriage houses, located at 409 and 411 Vanderbilt Avenue in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, have undergone extensive renovations by The Brooklyn Home Company and are now available for sale. These properties offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of historic architecture with modern amenities. The houses, originally built to accommodate coachmen and horses for a Clinton Avenue estate, have been transformed into contemporary residences while preserving their historical character. The carriage house at 409 Vanderbilt Avenue, a 24-foot-wide Queen Anne-style home, has been meticulously restored. Its interior features include glass and steel doors within the original archway leading to a glass-walled foyer. The living room boasts 11-foot ceilings, custom built-in shelving, and a gas fireplace with a custom mantel by Fitzhugh Karol, incorporating historic arches and gables throughout. The kitchen is equipped with high-end appliances from Viking, Bosch, Sub-Zero, and LG, and overlooks a landscaped backyard. A powder room and laundry facility are also located adjacent to the kitchen. The second floor houses three bedrooms, with the largest featuring an en suite bath. The third floor offers a skylit space with a full en suite bath, suitable as an additional bedroom or family room. This home is enhanced with modern conveniences such as split-unit heating and air conditioning, radiant heated floors, and a DVR security system. Next door, 411 Vanderbilt Avenue, another Queen Anne-style carriage house, is slightly narrower at just under 21 feet wide but includes a significant advantage: a private, gated driveway and dedicated parking, complete with a 60-amp electric car charger. This home, designed by a prominent architectural firm of its era, showcases a Flemish gable, a glass and steel door, and an original archway. Its living room also features a gas fireplace with a custom mantel by Fitzhugh Karol. The kitchen blends modern functionality with historical elements, featuring exposed beams, an arched stove hood, and a second arched carriage entrance. Beyond the kitchen, a bluestone paved patio and a landscaped backyard connect to the 45-foot gated driveway. A powder room and laundry are also present on the main floor. The second floor comprises three sunny, well-proportioned bedrooms with vaulted ceilings, two bathrooms, and ample closet space. An additional flight leads to a third-floor area, formerly a hayloft, which includes a round window, a large skylight, a full bath, and two closets, providing flexibility as a bedroom, guest room, or family room. Similar to its neighbor, this house is also outfitted with split-unit heating and air conditioning, radiant heated floors, and a DVR security system. These two properties represent a blend of historical charm and modern luxury, offering prospective buyers an opportunity to reside in a unique, thoughtfully renovated home in a historic Brooklyn neighborhood. The restoration efforts by The Brooklyn Home Company highlight a commitment to both preserving architectural heritage and integrating contemporary living standards. #ClintonHill #CarriageHouses #BrooklynHomeCompany #VanderbiltAvenue #HistoricRenovation #LuxuryHomes #BrooklynRealEstate #QueenAnneStyle

This article offers an exclusive look into the Southampton home of Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan, as featured in an extensive spread in the February 1963 issue of Vogue. Consuelo Vanderbilt, a prominent Gilded Age heiress and socialite, moved into her Southampton residence, named Garden Side, at the age of 80, after spending a significant portion of her early and middle life residing abroad. The feature highlights her enduring elegance and the sophisticated environment she cultivated in her later years. Valentine Lawford, the writer for the Vogue spread, vividly describes Vanderbilt Balsan's remarkable presence, noting her famous long neck, straight back, high-arched eyebrow, and a smile that was both shy and flirtatious. Lawford observes that her appearance would instantly bring to mind portraits by renowned artists such as Sargent, Helleu, Boldini, and Carolus Duran. The article also touches upon her storied life, marked by successive names—Consuelo Vanderbilt, Consuelo Marlborough, and Consuelo Balsan—each representing different chapters of her biography. Her life story is further elaborated by referencing her Anglo-American marriage of convenience, set against the opulent backdrops of Fifth Avenue, Marble House, Idlehour, Blenheim Palace, and Sunderland House. This contrasts with her later Franco-American marriage of love, which saw her creating personal gardens, including the gentle Tudor Crowhurst, Eze overlooking the Mediterranean, and the rustic yet luxurious Saint-Georges-Motel in Normandy. The tumultuous war years, however, brought her and her second husband, Jacques Balsan, back to America, where they divided their time between Southampton and Palm Beach. The photographs, captured by Horst P. Horst for Vogue, showcase Vanderbilt Balsan amidst incredibly elegant surroundings. These images reveal a meticulously decorated home featuring lacquered Chinoiserie cabinets, authentic 18th-century rugs, exquisite baroque paintings, and thoughtfully arranged gladiolas. Lawford's commentary underscores the resilience and grace with which Vanderbilt Balsan navigated life's challenges, stating that despite all sorrows, life had bestowed upon her its best, and she reciprocated with equal beauty. The renewed fascination with Consuelo Vanderbilt is noted, particularly with the airing of The Gilded Age season 3, where she serves as the inspiration for the fictional character Gladys Russell. The article emphasizes that while grand estates like Blenheim Palace and her Fifth Avenue mansion were often perceived as gilded cages, her Southampton home allowed her the freedom to live exactly as she pleased, albeit in an undeniably lavish manner. The accompanying photographs provide visual evidence of this luxurious lifestyle, depicting various rooms and details from Garden Side, including the drawing room with its crystal chandelier, Savonnerie rug, and Rococo paintings, as well as a study with an Aubusson tapestry rug and the dining room adorned with roses. These details collectively paint a picture of a life lived with immense taste and opulence, reflecting the refined aesthetic of the Gilded Age era. #ConsueloVanderbilt #GildedAge #SouthamptonHome #VogueFeature #HorstPHorst #InteriorDesign #SocialiteLife #HistoricalHomes

The article showcases a top-floor condominium located within the former West Queen Anne Elementary School in Seattle, a building recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. This historic school, which closed in 1981, was subsequently converted into 49 residential units in 1984, serving as a significant example of preserving surplus educational buildings. The specific condo featured is on the top floor and includes a sunny deck integrated into the roofline, making it one of 12 such units in the building. It offers a bright and spacious living environment with high ceilings. The interior has been thoroughly updated to reflect contemporary design aesthetics, featuring a galley-style kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, quartz countertops, subway tiles, and European white oak floors. A notable design element in the living room includes wall panels that subtly reference the building's historical character. These panels also cleverly conceal a twin-size Murphy bed and an entertainment center, blending modern functionality with vintage charm. The design philosophy of the condo, as described by listing agent Susan Mudarri, successfully merges the best of both historical preservation and contemporary living. The large, loft-style bedroom is illuminated by a skylight and features modern cable railings and recessed lighting, contributing to a minimalist and airy atmosphere. The unit also includes an en suite bathroom, an additional half-bath downstairs, a stacked washer and dryer, and custom closet cabinetry, ensuring practical needs are met while maintaining a clean aesthetic. The location of the condominium offers convenient access to local amenities in the Queen Anne community, such as Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream and Caffe Fiore, which are situated on the same street. The Queen Anne branch of the Seattle Public Library, also a National Register of Historic Places peer to the school, is just a block away. The neighborhood provides various recreational opportunities including pickleball courts, parks, and pizzerias, fostering a rich urban lifestyle. Historian Larry Kreisman noted that the successful conversion of the West Queen Anne Elementary School into residential units required a unique combination of factors. The community's efforts to save the building from demolition in the 1970s played a crucial role in its preservation and subsequent transformation. This communal spirit is noted to persist, with neighbors actively engaging in mutual support, such as watching packages and welcoming new residents. The article highlights that the building's historical integrity and its modern residential functionality are beautifully maintained. #PropertyWatch #QueenAnne #Condominiums #HistoricPreservation #ArchitecturalConversion #SeattleRealEstate #UrbanLiving #HomeDesign

Actress Sophia Bush, known for her roles in TV series and films, is undertaking a significant renovation of her 1,815-square-foot 1950s bungalow in the Hollywood Hills. Eschewing the trend of building large, modern 'McMansions,' Bush, an architecture enthusiast and proprietor of the interior decorating business Filles Des Rincón, is dedicated to preserving the historical integrity and original charm of her midcentury home. The project is a comprehensive top-to-bottom overhaul, addressing fundamental structural and utility issues that go beyond a simple cosmetic facelift. The initial assessment revealed the necessity of extensive work, including the installation of a new electrical system to modernize the home's infrastructure. Furthermore, the renovation involves leveling the foundation, a critical step to ensure the long-term stability and safety of the structure. Addressing plumbing concerns, the project includes the removal of roots that had infiltrated the old clay water pipes, a common issue in older homes that can lead to significant plumbing problems. Despite these extensive and complex structural repairs, Bush has maintained a steadfast commitment to retaining the bungalow's original architectural features. A key element she insisted on preserving is the exposed beams in the living area, which contribute significantly to the home's distinctive midcentury character. Bush emphasizes the importance of preserving older homes in Los Angeles, viewing her renovation as a "love letter to the city" in an era where many historic properties are demolished for new, often characterless, constructions. With the major construction phases anticipated to conclude by the end of the year, under the guidance of contractor Orie Prince, the focus will shift to the interior design and furnishing. For this crucial stage, Bush has enlisted the expertise of interior designer Jake Alexander Arnold. The interior scheme will incorporate a blend of custom-designed pieces and vintage items that Bush has carefully amassed over the years, reflecting her personal aesthetic and appreciation for timeless design. The chosen color palette is intended to evoke the serene and natural hues of the California desert, creating a harmonious and tranquil living environment. In addition to the interior work, Bush has ambitious plans for the exterior of her property. She is in the process of developing an urban farm around her bungalow, having already planted nearly 50 trees. Her future aspirations for the property include establishing a beehive and introducing chickens, further enhancing the urban farm concept and promoting a sustainable lifestyle. #SophiaBush #HollywoodHills #HomeRenovation #MidcenturyBungalow #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #UrbanFarm #CelebrityHomes #LosAngelesRealEstate

This blog post details the exquisite Park Slope townhouse at 108 8th Avenue, currently on the market for $8.8 million. Built in 1900, this limestone-clad mansion is a notable property in its grand neighborhood, recognized for its scale and preserved historic details. The residence has also served as a filming location for period productions such as Martin Scorsese’s “The Age of Innocence” and HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire,” chosen for its authentic representation of a bygone era's gracious living. This marks the first time in decades the property has been offered for sale. The five-story, 8,000-square-foot home showcases French Renaissance and Beaux-Arts architectural styles. Upon entry, guests are greeted by a floor-to-ceiling glass and wrought-iron wall, leading to a central staircase with carved mahogany newel posts. Opposite the staircase, an ornate mirrored mantel frames a gas-burning fireplace, setting a luxurious tone. The ground floor further includes a sitting area that transitions into an oak drawing room, adorned with original wainscoting and Tiffany light fixtures. A two-level chef’s kitchen and a breakfast room are also situated on this floor, with access to an outdoor terrace for al fresco dining, complemented by a powder room and ample closet space. The parlor floor, accessible via a wide mahogany staircase beneath an original stained glass skylight, features a formal dining room complete with original wall tapestries, an elaborately carved mahogany buffet, and a mahogany and Spanish marble mantel with a gas-burning fireplace. An adjacent music room boasts a 15-foot-high ceiling from which an original crystal chandelier hangs. The chef’s kitchen is distinguished by two large stained glass windows, identified as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Coonley Playhouse Triptych ("Balloons & Confetti"), custom cabinetry, and a Juliet balcony. Moving to the upper levels, the next floor houses a library with built-in bookshelves and a traditional library ladder. A pass-through area provides extensive storage with built-in drawers, cedar closets, and a mirrored dressing area, connecting the master bedroom to the library. The master bedroom itself features a mahogany mantel and fireplace. The en suite marble bathroom is equipped with a steam shower, multiple nozzles, a bidet, and a deep soaking tub for two. The top floor contains an additional bedroom with an en suite blue-marble bath and a home office that includes built-in shelves, file drawers, and a large custom-made curved wood desk, overlooking an outdoor deck with city views. This floor also offers another full bath, a full-sized vented laundry room, and a walk-in cedar closet, with stairs leading to a roof deck providing panoramic city vistas. The garden level, accessible via a private entrance, includes a living suite suitable for guests or an au pair, featuring a full-sized bedroom, sitting area, a full bath, and a sauna. The remainder of this level is currently used as a game room but can be converted into another bedroom. The home benefits from an internal staircase connecting all floors and a mechanical dumbwaiter. A wine cellar is located in the basement. This single-family home encompasses five bedrooms, three outdoor decks, multi-zoned central air conditioning, and acoustic stereo sound systems throughout its beautifully proportioned interior spaces. The property is listed by Jeffrey Zoldan for Brown Harris Stevens. #ParkSlope #Townhouse #HistoricHome #LuxuryRealEstate #NewYorkCity #FilmLocation #BoardwalkEmpire #AgeOfInnocence #ArchitecturalHistory

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

The Metropolitan Opera's Patron Lounge, now known as the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, underwent a significant redesign by ELLE DECOR A-Listers Christine and John Gachot of Gachot Studios. This renovation marks a new chapter for the storied space, originally decorated by Billy Baldwin when the opera house opened in 1966. The Gachots, longtime fans of the Met Opera, were tasked with refreshing the lounge to reflect contemporary luxury while honoring its rich history and the grand aesthetics of the opera house. The original lounge, characterized by its wall-to-wall windows and domed ceiling, was designed by Baldwin to offer practical, flexible seating areas for guests. However, after decades, the space required a modern update. The Gachots were selected for their expertise in warm, sophisticated interiors, demonstrated in previous luxury hospitality projects like the Pendry Manhattan West and Detroit’s Shinola Hotel. Their approach to the Met Opera lounge involved a deep dive into the Met’s extensive archives, studying original sketches and photographs to reinterpret Baldwin's vision while introducing a fresh perspective. Inspired by Baldwin's initial layout, the Gachots divided the lounge into distinct zones for various activities, including a bar area, comfortable sofas, and tables for gathering. This zoning strategy ensures that the space remains versatile and inviting. The design seamlessly integrates with the opera's iconic common areas, such as the lobby with its red carpeting and travertine accents. The chosen color palette of blush, red, and camel complements these existing elements, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the venue. One of the standout features of the redesigned lounge is a glittering gold custom carpet by Creative Matters, which evokes the effervescence of freshly popped Champagne, serving as a luxurious counterpoint to the lobby's famous red carpet. Other custom elements include a brass Amuneal bar, screens upholstered in Clarence House fabric, and all furniture supplied by Roche Bobois. The bathrooms feature fixtures by Waterworks from the Bond collection, designed in collaboration with Gachot, alongside Waterworks sinks, mirrors, and stone. The lounge's new name, the Keebler J. Straz Lounge, honors a managing director on the Met Opera’s board who generously funded the renovation. Access to this exclusive space is reserved for Metropolitan Opera sponsor members. The redesign is intended to symbolize a renewed commitment to attracting and nurturing a new generation of opera enthusiasts and patrons, a sentiment echoed by both Straz and the Gachots. The project underscores the importance of cultural institutions and the role of design in preserving and evolving these significant spaces. #MetropolitanOpera #LoungeRedesign #GachotStudios #LuxuryInteriorDesign #CulturalRenovation #HospitalityDesign #NewYorkDesign #OperaHouse #InteriorDecor

This blog post highlights a unique studio apartment located at 400 West 12th Street in the Superior Ink condo building, West Village, New York City, currently listed for $2.3 million. The 943-square-foot residence, described as a “zen suite,” features an interior meticulously designed with a focus on luxury, custom elements, and smart home technology. The apartment's aesthetic is characterized by a blend of natural materials and contemporary finishes, creating a tranquil and sophisticated living space. The entrance to the home features a narrow hallway adorned with leather walls, artistic displays, and subtle light coves. This hallway provides access to essential amenities including a full bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a washer/dryer closet. A smaller closet ingeniously houses a Savant smart home system, allowing for integrated control of the apartment's various functions. The bathroom itself is a showcase of modern design, featuring heated travertine floors, a limed oak vanity topped with white Quartzite, a spacious walk-in shower with a teak floor, and a separate water closet, emphasizing both comfort and style. The kitchen area is equipped with white Quartzite counters, a distinctive blue-vein Cipolino marble backsplash, a Sub-zero refrigerator, and stainless-steel Viking appliances, indicating a high-end culinary setup. Adjacent to the kitchen is a bedroom alcove, which has been reconfigured into a custom dressing room surrounded by built-in closets, catering specifically to individuals with a significant wardrobe. Both the kitchen and the dressing room can be privately enclosed using hand-carved sliding doors imported from Bali, adding an exotic touch to the interior. The main living space is accessed via a hallway lined with architectural mirrors. The bed area is distinguished by a white leather headboard and a coordinating footboard that cleverly conceals a custom television lift. The room offers ample space for a separate sitting area and features Shagreen counters, grasscloth walls, and large south-facing windows that fill the space with natural light. The apartment boasts 10-foot ceilings throughout, Morado wood floors, custom light fixtures, a built-in audio system, and electronic drapes, sheers, and shades, enhancing the luxurious feel. The Superior Ink condo, built in 2010 and designed by Robert A.M. Stern, is LEED-certified, underscoring its commitment to environmental sustainability. Its prime location offers residents convenient access to Hudson River Park, the High Line, the Whitney Museum, and other cultural attractions within the West Village. The building also provides a range of amenities, including a residents’ lounge, a screening room, a fitness center with a pilates/yoga room, a playroom, and 24-hour concierge and doorman services, ensuring a comprehensive luxury living experience. #WestVillage #StudioApartment #LuxuryRealEstate #SuperiorInkCondo #InteriorDesign #SmartHome #Fashionista #NewYorkCity #RobertAMStern

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

Christine Retlev, a furniture dealer specializing in antiques and contemporary handcrafted pieces, undertook a two-and-a-half-year project to transform two adjacent 1930s apartments in New York City's West Village into a three-bedroom home for herself and her young family. Her primary objective was to create a warm, inviting, and unique living space that reflects the bohemian essence of the West Village neighborhood, ensuring every room is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Retlev approaches each design project without preconceived notions, allowing the inherent character of the space to guide her narrative, which in this case, resulted in a design that harmonizes the apartment’s Modernist origins and Art Deco influences with contemporary finishes and personal touches. The entry foyer serves as a subtle introduction to the home's color palette, with walls covered in a rust-colored fabric by Muriel Brandolini, setting a cognac tone that recurs throughout the apartment. A large, round-cornered mirror styled with vintage brass sconces and a wooden console table by French sculptor Jacques Jarrige adds depth and character to this small space. The living room, designed as a calm respite, features a mix of Scandinavian mid-century furniture and contemporary handmade pieces. A cognac velvet sofa anchors the room, complemented by a coffee table from Rose Uniacke and sculptural plaster lamps from Blackman Cruz. Retlev personally designed the Art Deco-inspired Calacatta marble fireplace, which is paired with a mirror by Otto Schulz. The dining room is a focal point, featuring a deep blue mural wallpaper from Fromental, inspired by Jean Lurçat's tapestries and Japanese Edo period screens. This wallpaper not only informed the global mix of furnishings but also visually expands the room, which was originally a guest bedroom. The rich rust and blue colors of the wallpaper establish the apartment's overall color scheme, providing a lively yet balanced visual experience. The powder room, a testament to maximizing small spaces, features marble-clad walls and brass faucets. A large slab of marble creates a dramatic backdrop and an optical illusion, making the space appear deeper than it is, hinting at a blend of contemporary style and functionality. The family room, located off the living room, embraces deeper tones, with dark blue walls that create a cozy atmosphere and cleverly mask the room's irregular shape. This room showcases Retlev's dedication to sourcing unique pieces, exemplified by a vintage Khotan rug, which she spent two years searching for after being inspired by a similar one in Paris. The master bedroom exemplifies a rich tactile experience, with a textured pink wool rug by Elizabeth Eakins and a moth-printed fabric from Radish Moon on the wall behind the headboard, providing visual interest while maintaining a serene ambiance. The master bathroom continues the use of Calacatta marble for wall cladding, paired with soft taupe paint and custom-designed fittings by Retlev, featuring Waterworks and Urban Archaeology fixtures. For the children's bedroom, a porcelain-inspired blue and white upholstered bed frame and blinds are combined with yellow graphic artwork for a youthful touch, alongside an antique chest of drawers. The kitchen features custom deep blue cabinetry inspired by a pewter and brass bowl from Svenskt Tenn, complete with brass fittings and marble accents. A cozy seating area offers views of the city. The second bathroom deviates from marble, instead utilizing monochrome tiling from Ann Sacks, updated with a mirror identical to the one in the master bathroom and black accents to harmonize with the tiling, creating a cohesive design throughout the renovated apartment. #WestVillageApartment #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #ArtDeco #CustomFurniture #StatementWallpaper #CalacattaMarble #BohemianStyle #ChristineRetlev