Unlocking the potential of a beautiful Edwardian house: A new floorplan,hand-carved furniture, and an armoire to last a lifetime

This article showcases a three-bedroom Edwardian house in Nottingham that has undergone a significant reconfiguration to align with modern living requirements while preserving its inherent period features. The owner, an interior architect, spearheaded the transformation, acknowledging that despite her professional background, the process of redesigning her own home involved extensive planning and consideration of various layouts. The objective was to achieve a home that offered a seamless flow, ample space, and a comfortable, cozy atmosphere. The renovation started with a "tired and depressing" property, which the owners aimed to revitalize for future generations. Initial attempts to paint everything white were abandoned in favor of incorporating color to highlight the house's character. The living room, for instance, features a soft, neutral backdrop that allows original architectural elements to stand out, complemented by bold pastel accents. The owners discovered that a strategic application of color and contrast was essential to bring the house to life, opting for bright, uplifting hues that feel fresh. The kitchen-diner, originally an exterior courtyard, was extended and now boasts a large skylight, creating a bright and airy space. White units provide extensive storage and a clean aesthetic, while ceramic 'faux flagstone' floor tiles offer the warmth of real stone without the high maintenance. A unique design choice includes using bird wallpaper as a splashback, sealed with polyurethane varnish to withstand the kitchen environment. A Shaker-style cupboard discreetly conceals twin fridge-freezers, maintaining the room's classic appeal. The dining area is adorned with small, impactful pieces like bright blue artwork and distressed barn stars, offering a blend of retro and modern decor against a neutral backdrop. The hallway features traditional panelling painted in a soft-pastel grey, matching the walls and enhancing the period feel. Two side tables pushed together serve as a low-profile alternative to a console, demonstrating clever space utilization. In the main bedroom, contemporary bird-print wallpaper creates a light and dynamic atmosphere, with carefully selected cushions tying the room's color scheme and motifs together. The room benefits from citrus yellow accents, which provide a vibrant contrast to the cool grey palette, balancing color without overwhelming the space. The child's room incorporates a fun foxy wallpaper in a subtle grey, harmonizing with the home's overall color scheme. Hexagonal box shelves add functional storage and a playful display area for toys. The bathroom, once a small bedroom, is now a functional and inviting space located under the eaves. Despite the sloping ceiling, the owners successfully integrated a shower, showcasing efficient space planning. Throughout the house, the renovation demonstrates a thoughtful balance between honoring the Edwardian heritage and introducing contemporary design elements, resulting in a home that is both historically resonant and perfectly suited for modern family life. #EdwardianHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #SpacePlanning #ColorPalette #KitchenDesign #BedroomDecor #BathroomRenovation

Alex Legendre, co-founder of I Gigi General Store in Hove, undertook the renovation of an Edwardian house in Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, which had been owned by one person for 103 years. The property retained much of its original character, including Edwardian wallpaper, paint, and childhood graffiti, which Alex found appealing for its preserved historical essence. The move from a Brighton flat marked Alex’s first full house renovation, where she envisioned potential despite the house’s dark and gloomy initial state. She intended to utilize a decade's worth of accumulated antique and salvaged items, such as an old bath, original taps, chandeliers, antique fabrics, and decorative finds, reflecting her background with an antiques dealer father. The renovation project was executed within a tight six-week timeframe due to budget constraints. Alex personally contributed to tasks like sanding floors to their original condition, alongside installing new plumbing and electrics. The walls were finished with unpolished plaster, providing a textural backdrop for her eclectic collection of curios and furnishings. The wood throughout the property was stripped and bleached, embracing imperfections and the marks of time as elements of honesty and uniqueness. Notably, a small section of original wallpaper in the hall and childhood drawings upstairs were intentionally preserved, integrating these historical details into the home’s narrative. To enhance light and create a more contemporary flow, the ground floor underwent significant structural changes. A wall between the dining room and sitting room was removed, and the original corridor connecting the dining room to the kitchen was taken down. Furthermore, the cold room, pantry, galley, and larder were combined to form a single, expansive kitchen area. Upstairs, Alex designed a serene master bedroom and dressing room, a bedroom for her daughter Mizzy, and a compact yet stylish bathroom. The bathroom features reclamation finds juxtaposed against dramatic dark plaster walls, maintaining the home's distinctive aesthetic. The interior design scheme emphasizes natural materials and muted tones. Stoneware pots, linens, hemps, antique fabrics, and shearling throws contribute texture and depth. Indian and Turkish rugs and tapestries, with their faded hues, add softness and subtle color. Vintage finds, such as distressed leather chairs, weathered tables, galvanized metal containers, and foxed antique mirrors, serve as focal points in each room. The walls are minimally adorned, featuring occasional aged portraits or carvings, rather than personal photos. Instead, sculptural seed heads, dried flowers, and other natural elements collected locally are displayed, appreciated for the shadows they cast and the ease with which the look can be refreshed seasonally. Alex prioritizes comfort and welcome within her home, despite the presence of many treasured items. The antique fabric-covered sofas, though pale, are described as resilient and easily cleaned due to their natural fibers. The distinctive style evident in Alex’s home resonates with customers of I Gigi General Store, leading Alex and her business partner, Zoe Ellison, to expand into interior design services. Their approach focuses on creating beautiful, practical spaces tailored to individual lifestyles, offering a unique and personal aesthetic in a world increasingly moving towards homogeneity. The article concludes by inviting readers to visit I Gigi General Store and noting that this feature originated from Country Living Magazine. #HomeRenovation #EdwardianHouse #InteriorDesign #AntiqueFinds #RusticDecor #WestSussex #SustainableLiving #UniqueStyle #HistoricPreservation

In a competitive property market, specific home updates can significantly boost a property's value and appeal to potential buyers. According to insights from premium home interiors brand Neville Johnson, in collaboration with leading property experts from Foxtons, strategic improvements in five key areas could increase a home's value by as much as 20%. These updates also contribute to a quicker sale. Ryan Ninnis from Foxtons emphasizes that presenting a stylish, well-designed, and functional home is crucial for differentiation and rapid sales, noting that home improvements aligned with local market demands frequently result in value increases of 15-20%. One critical area for improvement is the staircase, often the first visual element upon entering a home. Despite being frequently overlooked, a well-purposed staircase in a hallway can create an impeccable first impression. Property experts observe that potential buyers often form an opinion on a property within the first 30 seconds of entering, underscoring the importance of this feature. Therefore, investing in an elegant and functional staircase can play a significant role in capturing a buyer's interest from the outset. Clever storage solutions, particularly fitted wardrobes, are another valuable addition. With homeowners increasingly prioritizing space efficiency, fitted bedroom furniture adds substantial value. New home developments set a high benchmark for storage, making it essential for older or traditional properties to integrate smart storage options. Fitted wardrobes offer a practical solution for maximizing space while either complementing original architectural features in traditional homes or adding bold style in modern ones. Multi-functional study spaces have also become a major asset, especially given the rise in remote work. These dedicated workspaces, which might even replace a bedroom, significantly enhance a home's appeal and value. A bespoke study space caters to the contemporary need for homes to serve as productive office environments, making it a highly desirable feature for many buyers. Additionally, dressing rooms can significantly attract buyers. A well-designed fitted dressing room allows potential occupants to visualize themselves living in the space, fostering an emotional connection. The resurgence of focusing on adult spaces within the home has elevated dressing rooms, often paired with a master bedroom and en suite, to a high-priority feature even for family buyers, who are willing to pay a premium for such dedicated spaces. Finally, creating a relaxing home library is an increasingly popular update that can make a property stand out. With more individuals working from home, a dedicated space for relaxation and escape from work-life is highly sought after. Whether a traditional library with classic architectural details or a contemporary one with modern lighting and seamless doors, a home library can serve as a focal point, adding desirability, quality, and considerable value to the property. #PropertyValue #HomeImprovements #InteriorDesign #HomeStaging #FittedWardrobes #HomeOffice #DressingRoom #HomeLibrary #RealEstate

Kate and Dan, seeking more space for their growing family, relocated from London to Woking, Surrey, an area offering a convenient commute to the city. They discovered an early 1900s detached house and were immediately captivated, making an offer even before selling their existing home. The rapid sale of their London residence accelerated their move-in date. The property, while appearing acceptable on the surface, revealed underlying issues such as poor insulation and plumbing problems, prompting the couple to embark on a comprehensive renovation project. Their initial efforts focused on replacing bathrooms, the boiler, and insulating the roof. The original layout of the house was considered outdated and conservative. The renovation involved significant structural changes, including the removal of an old chimney breast that spanned three floors and the demolition of parts of the kitchen, family room, utility room, and garage. These alterations paved the way for extensions on the ground and first floors, creating a modern, open-plan kitchen-diner and entertainment area, with a new master bedroom above. On the top floor, the removal of the chimney breast allowed for the reconfiguration of two small, oddly shaped bedrooms into a larger multipurpose space, functioning as a kid’s room and gym. Additionally, the existing deck was reshaped and modernized, and bi-fold doors were installed to foster an indoor-outdoor living experience. The entire renovation process, described as a labor of love, spanned seven years. Kate and Dan assembled a team comprising an architect and an interior designer, with whom they began the planning permission process for the extension in 2013. The design phase alone took over a year, complicated by the need to consult with the council regarding tree preservation regulations, which increased costs due to the necessity of avoiding damage to tree root balls during foundation work. Construction officially commenced in February 2016, leading the family to relocate for an eight-month period. Although the project exceeded its initial budget, the couple managed finances by utilizing savings and obtaining loans. The major construction was largely completed before Christmas, with only decorative finishes remaining. Kate sought a design aesthetic that honored the home's 100-year history without being overly traditional or contemporary. She aimed to incorporate color and statement pieces, drawing inspiration from a watercolor painting owned by her husband. Her neighbor and friend, interior designer Amanda Erritt, assisted in developing a scheme that blended stand-out features with a mix of colors and textures. The kitchen emerged as the central gathering point of the home, designed to accommodate large family gatherings and entertaining, with an island for casual interaction and a dining table capable of seating sixteen. The open-plan design also allowed for flexible use, such as children doing homework or relaxing while Kate prepared meals. #HomeRenovation #PeriodHome #SurreyProperty #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #KitchenDiner #HistoricHome #PropertyRenovation

The article details the renovation of a historic 1914 home in Westport, CT, originally the studio of American sculptors James Earl and Laura Gardin Fraser. The property, listed on the state's historic register, presented unique challenges and opportunities for architect and designer Lisa Schwert of Innate Studio. The renovation focused on balancing the preservation of original features and the integration of modern living requirements, elevating the home's interiors while honoring its artistic legacy. A key aspect of the redesign was celebrating and cherishing original features. The bright, double-height living room, a former sculptor's studio, was enhanced to preserve its historical significance. Lisa Schwert emphasized finding the right balance between restoring original detailing and implementing a modern redesign. Architectural challenges were transformed into unique opportunities, such as creating a stunning home bar from an awkward corner. This bar, clad in Calacatta marble, complemented existing elements like whitewashed beams and a limestone relief by Laura Gardin Fraser, demonstrating how contemporary forms can integrate with period features to maintain a modern yet livable feel. In the kitchen, the homeowners' desire for a practical and attractive space for cooking and entertaining was a priority. The renovation focused on upgrading without full replacement by changing only the faucets and tiles. Existing kitchen cabinets and countertops were retained, while contemporary chrome faucets were replaced with classic polished nickel ones to align with the home's historic character. New handmade wall tiles from Clé Tile were installed to harmonize with the cabinet color and Carrera countertops. Furthermore, the eat-in kitchen was designed to balance modern family life with a traditional aesthetic, incorporating a custom-designed built-in banquette with matching window treatments, which also provided additional storage. The formal dining room was envisioned to accommodate larger gatherings while maintaining a timeless elegance. The design started with an antique rug that tied together the existing silk wall covering and an oil painting. An antique walnut table, originally from a Spanish Monastery, was paired with custom dining chairs upholstered in performance velvet. A linear crystal chandelier was added as a finishing touch to introduce sparkle. The living room, featuring the home's original fireplace, was designed as a cozy seating area. A symmetrical arrangement of four vintage leather Art Deco club chairs, an ottoman, twin mirrors, and a Heriz rug created an eclectic and homely atmosphere. A significant addition to the home was a main-level powder room, ingeniously created from a small AV closet under the stairs. This space was furnished with dramatic wallpaper, a custom marble sink, Waterworks fixtures, and alabaster sconces, transforming a functional necessity into a glamorous feature. The primary bedroom's design addressed a practical challenge by installing a custom upholstered headboard and bed that spanned the entire wall. This solution allowed for new sconces to be placed optimally and concealed necessary patching in the existing grasscloth wall covering, all while extending the home's narrative with a bird motif fabric. Finally, the interior design reflected the home's outdoor setting, which included a patio, pool, and landscaped grounds. The whimsical, timeless nature of the exterior architecture and backyard landscaping was integrated into the interiors. The design process involved sourcing many furnishings from 1stDibs, Chairish, and local antique dealers, reupholstering some items, and creating new upholstered pieces through a local workroom. This collaborative approach aimed to create a comfortable home that could withstand the demands of a family with pets and young children, successfully blending historical reverence with modern functionality and personal taste. #HistoricHomeRenovation #ModernLiving #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #CustomFurniture #KitchenRemodel #DiningRoomDesign #PowderRoomIdeas #BedroomDesign

In March 2020, Charlotte and Robert Henry purchased a double shotgun house in New Orleans, Charlotte's hometown, intending to transform it into a single-family home. The couple, originally from Dallas, sought to establish a family residence after their marriage, a plan that soon included two daughters, Merritt and Libby. Their renovation journey began with Chris Kornman at Entablature, a contracting firm known for its professionalism and realistic expectations. The Henrys appreciated the firm's use of an app for selections, communication, and plan sharing, which provided much-needed guidance for first-time homeowners undertaking a significant construction project. Entablature subsequently referred the Henrys to Leslie Raymond, vice president and principal, and Dan Akerley, senior project manager, at Albert Architecture. Raymond and Akerley played a crucial role in shaping the home's style and design, meticulously attending to details such as knob placements, outlet cover positioning, and trim installation. The primary goal for the remodel was to gut the existing structure and customize it to their preferences. The house was one of three identical double shotgun homes on their street, and the Henrys aimed to convert it into a single-family dwelling while ensuring a seamless flow in their primary living space, which they envisioned at the back of the house. Maximizing storage was also a priority, leading to the addition of closets in the master bathroom, front room, and hallway, as well as double closets in one of the bedrooms. A significant aspect of the renovation was the preservation of the home's historic elements. The Henrys salvaged two original bathroom windows, repurposing them for the new laundry room and a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. They also removed a second door from the double shotgun layout and created a replica of the other front windows to maintain the historical aesthetic. Raymond emphasized the team's commitment to retaining the home's historic character, even in the room layout. They largely preserved existing structural walls, strategically placing openings rather than relocating entire walls. The completed remodel successfully meets the Henry family's needs. The combined kitchen and living space has become the central hub for the family, particularly with two young children. The design allows for easy supervision of outdoor play while cooking or working. The kitchen itself was custom-designed to their specifications, featuring a large island with ample storage and a kitchen hood at a customized height for Robert. The use of two slabs of Dakar White polished quartzite for the counter and backsplash, alongside Shiloh Cabinets in Mindful Gray, creates a distinctive statement. Anne Villere of Anne Villere Designs contributed to the interior, selecting paint colors, wallpaper, drapery, and rugs. The design incorporates a calm, traditional color palette with subtle pops of greens and blues, offering a relaxing atmosphere. Despite their initial inclination towards neutrals, the Henrys embraced more bold design choices with Villere's guidance, incorporating wallpaper and playful color trims to complement the off-white walls. Carrie Knapp of Carrie Knapp Interiors later converted the guest room into a nursery, seamlessly integrating the new design with existing elements. Looking ahead, the Henrys anticipate needing more space as their family grows, considering a future camelback addition to the house, an idea initially suggested during the early planning stages. #HomeRenovation #NewOrleansHomes #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CustomKitchen #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRemodel

This article explores the renovation philosophy of designer Mark Lewis, who prioritizes respecting the existing architecture and age of a property rather than striving for a new, shiny aesthetic. Lewis, who founded his eponymous firm in 2008 and later launched a home store specializing in sand-cast bronze hardware, emphasizes the difficulty of finding finishes that appear aged, leading him to create his own. His guiding principle is to avoid anything that "screams 'shiny.'" The renovation of Lewis's Victorian row home in North London exemplifies this approach. In 2010, he and his partner, Abi Leland, began by purchasing the garden-level apartment and patiently waited five years to acquire the unit above, recognizing its value for their expansion plans. An extensive eight-month remodel followed, during which they moved out with their two children, James and Olive. The renovation involved integrating the two apartments, creating a striking double-height space with triptych windows overlooking the backyard. A distinctive feature of Lewis's design is the absence of a kitchen island and upper cabinets. His goal is for the kitchen to appear as freestanding as possible, as if it could be moved. To align with the house's historical era, he installed base cabinets along a single wall, extending approximately 8 meters, and mounted floating shelves precisely 55 centimeters from the countertop. These base cabinets are finished with an aged paint effect and feature hand-cast bronze cup handles. The kitchen space also incorporates functional elements like task lighting under concrete slabs, providing a soft glow, and a separate walk-in pantry designed to evoke a sense of stepping back 70 years, filled with fresh produce and minimal packaging. The living room reflects Lewis's aversion to modern technology, specifically televisions. Instead of a "black box," the cozy space features a wood-burning stove. For family movie nights or sports viewing, they utilize his son James's bedroom, which houses a large television. Olive's smaller room necessitated creative storage solutions, leading Lewis to design a custom built-in bunk bed with drawers that fits seamlessly into an alcove, topped with a slightly undersized twin mattress. The bedrooms are adorned with wallpapers from Robert Kime and painted in shades like Little Greene's French Grey and Normandy Grey, with furniture and accessories from Mark Lewis Home Store and Conran Shop. Lewis's favorite part of the house is the primary bathroom, which includes a fireplace to ensure warmth after using the cast-iron tub. He sourced the Art Nouveau-style mantel from a salvage shop, a significant investment at the time that he now cherishes. A vintage French chair in the corner has been updated with a brightly colored felt cushion by artist Laura Lees. Lewis demonstrates a keen eye for finding vintage pieces, with blackened steel stair railings held by antique brass screws and a powder bathroom that combines reclaimed tiles, the home's original brick, and wood from a previous kitchen floor, resulting in a unique blend of textures that appear to have been part of the house for centuries. His design ethos consistently aims to imbue new elements with an appearance of age and history, respecting the inherent character of the property. #HomeRenovation #VintageDesign #InteriorDesign #VictorianHome #AgedFinishes #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #CustomFurniture #NorthLondon

This article details the transformation of a five-bedroom Edwardian property in southwest London, where homeowners sought a larger, more connected kitchen and better access to their garden. The existing kitchen was cramped and detached, lacking direct outdoor access, a significant drawback for a family with young children. To address these issues, the owners engaged architect Alex Bilton of Abhra. The project involved demolishing the original kitchen and an outdated extension to build a new six-meter-deep extension. A key challenge was designing this large open-plan space without unduly affecting neighboring terraced houses, which follow a stepped design. Alex Bilton emphasized the importance of early communication with neighbors to ensure a smoother construction process and prevent potential disputes. The new single-story extension spans the full width of the garden. Its facade features traditional hanging clay tiles in terracotta and grey, arranged in a hexagonal pattern to create a modern yet sympathetic finish that complements the host building’s exterior cladding. This design approach ensures the contemporary addition integrates harmoniously with the period context. The architects carefully managed the extension's footprint, stepping it away from the boundary to create a pantry nook and pitching the roof towards neighbors to minimize visual impact and lower eaves height at the boundary. Inside, the open-plan space is divided into a dining area and a built-in kitchen featuring a large island. Tall kitchen units and a bar are situated under the lowest part of the roof, with the island in the tallest section. Glazing plays a crucial role in defining zones and maximizing natural light; a five-meter-long high-level clerestory window floods the dining area with illumination. The roof structure is exposed above the dining table to add character and height. A poured concrete floor with underfloor heating provides comfort and contributes to an interior scheme that blends industrial, contemporary, and period elements. Maximizing natural light was a primary request from the homeowners. The roof design incorporates clerestory windows and fixed skylights, ensuring passive solar gain during winter and drawing brightness deep into the interior. The decor is predominantly neutral, featuring warm wood materials that soften the white walls and beams, directing focus towards the garden views. Built-in storage, including a bespoke unit and a wine fridge, optimizes space and maintains tidiness. These elements were integrated from the initial design phase, arising from the need to mitigate the extension's impact on adjacent properties. Views into the original part of the house are unobstructed, with timber flooring in the living area demarcating spaces. Two openings connect the original property to the new kitchen-diner: a larger one from the formal living room and a narrower one to the entry hall. Cleverly positioned glazing helps transmit light to the front of the house. The central kitchen island serves as a practical cooking and prep area and a social hub, with bar stools providing an informal dining spot. An oriel window, protruding into the garden, creates a cozy window seat that connects indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting relaxation. The cooking area features versatile cladding that pays homage to the period heritage while complementing the modern shaker style. Before the renovation, the Edwardian property had an existing rear extension that was poorly connected to the garden and had a disjointed internal layout. The goal was to create a distinctly modern extension that respected and celebrated the traditional elements of the original building, located in a conservation area. Architect Alex Bilton's advice for extension projects includes using angled roof designs for better drainage, exposing structural elements for texture, positioning skylights strategically, adjusting roof heights to create higher ceilings, and incorporating insulation or solar panels for energy efficiency. This project exemplifies how a sympathetic yet contemporary approach can successfully update a classic terraced home. #EdwardianProperty #TerracedExtension #KitchenDesign #OpenPlanLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalLight #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #InteriorDecor

Widad and Ara Tachdjian, along with their two young children, relocated from France to North London, bringing with them a cherished collection of furniture and artwork. This collection, consisting of a dozen paintings, two sofas, a dining table and chairs, and other smaller items, became the foundation for their vision of a warm and vibrant home. Widad expressed a desire for a home filled with energy and color, incorporating various styles that reflect their travels and African heritage. Before realizing this vision, several structural changes were necessary. The Edwardian house, despite its high ceilings and solid structure, required a layout redesign to enhance flow and maximize its potential. Additionally, period features such as fireplaces, ceiling mouldings, and skirting boards, which had been removed previously, needed to be reinstated. The unique construction of the semi-detached house, connected at the back to another property, meant the only garden was at the front and there were no windows at the rear. This resulted in abundant light at the front but a dark back portion of the house. Specifically, the kitchen, situated behind a reception room, only received light from a small side window, and the stairwell lacked natural light entirely. To address these challenges, Widad and Ara enlisted the help of Zulufish, a London-based interior design and architectural practice. Caroline Milns from Zulufish spearheaded the creation of a large, light-filled family space on one half of the ground floor. This involved removing the wall between the former kitchen and front reception room to allow light from the front bay window to permeate the entire area. A glazed door was also added to the side window, providing garden access. Within this open-plan family space, distinct zones were created. The kitchen, featuring denim blue cabinetry built by Hux London (Zulufish's sister company), was visually separated by blue graphic floor tiles. Caroline noted the clients' adventurous spirit regarding color and pattern, which influenced the lively interiors. The dining and lounging areas, in contrast, featured honey-colored herringbone oak flooring, chosen for its classic appeal, and were softened with rugs and tactile upholstery. Modern globe lamps were a recurring lighting theme throughout the home, blending contemporary aesthetics with the period setting. A significant innovation was the removal of a corner section of the second reception room, replaced with an L-shaped Crittall-style glass panel and double doors. This transformation dramatically improved natural light in the previously dark hallway and stairs. Widad highlighted this change as having the most significant impact on the home's sense of openness while maintaining room separation and privacy. The Crittall-style panels were echoed in kitchen shelving and an expansive L-shaped ebony veneer bookcase in the second reception room, custom-made by Hux London. The second reception room also housed two velvet Roche Bobois sofas from France, one in midnight blue and the other with a graphic print, alongside colorful artworks by Ara’s uncle. The design process centered on integrating these personal items, ensuring they complemented the layout and that the color schemes, flooring, joinery, and furnishings harmonized with them. The overall palette of the house was directly influenced by the artworks, creating a cohesive and vibrant environment that breathed new life into the home. Widad’s vision for an eclectic, vibrant home filled with beloved family pieces was successfully realized. #EdwardianRenovation #HomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #ColorfulInteriors #OpenPlanLiving #KitchenDesign #LightingDesign #Zulufish #NorthLondonHome

The Westgarth House project, located in Melbourne's inner-north, involved the revitalization of an elegant Edwardian home by architect Michael McKeon. This architectural endeavor was influenced by both the personal history of the family, who had owned the house for generations, and the property's architectural heritage. The neighborhood's heritage overlay dictated that the front and side facades of the original structure be retained, while allowing for a contemporary yet sympathetic extension to the rear. The renovation scheme preserved four original rooms: a formal lounge and three bedrooms, all accessible from a central hall. Significant effort was dedicated to restoring the dwelling's historical elements, including a stained-glass bay window, high ceilings, and decorative cornices. However, the house also required extensive structural work due to its location on unstable ground near Merri Creek, which had led to considerable cracks in the brickwork over its century-long existence. This structural remediation was a critical first step in ensuring the longevity and stability of the home. Beyond the preserved original rooms, a compact courtyard was integrated on the eastern side of the central hall. This courtyard serves to introduce natural light and greenery into a newly added bathroom and an existing bedroom, enhancing the living experience within these spaces. A deliberate design feature, a simple archway, marks the transition from the subdued elegance of the original Edwardian section to the brighter, more contemporary extension. This archway is part of a larger design strategy to differentiate the programs of the old and new sections of the house. As one passes through the arch, the ceiling height momentarily drops, creating a sense of compression, before expanding upwards and outwards towards the east. This deliberate shift in spatial experience guides occupants from the traditional private areas to the open communal spaces. The new extension houses the kitchen, living, and dining areas under a distinctive raking ceiling. The kitchen design emphasizes functionality and clean aesthetics, featuring abundant full-height storage and an island bench with a convex end. Details such as brass tapware and minimalist appliances, including a cylindrical rangehood, contribute to an uncluttered and refined appearance. Material selection played a crucial role in harmonizing the old and new sections of the house. Dark timber floors, characteristic of the period rooms, were extended into the new rear volume, providing visual continuity. Additionally, lush walnut joinery was consistently used throughout both sections, acting as a unifying element. Michael McKeon noted that the expression of the cabinetry, with its vertical fins, was inspired by the repetitive patterns found in Edwardian architecture, such as the fretwork on the front verandah or the mullions of the bay window. This subtle nod to heritage through modern elements helped bridge the architectural styles. The interior palette is minimalist, featuring fine detailing, pale stone benchtops with slender edges, and a matching splashback. The contrast between the rich dark timber and the light stone surfaces contributes to an aesthetic that, according to McKeon, evokes an Edwardian sensibility. The new volume's open plan and extensive glazing contrast with the more enclosed Edwardian spaces, inviting natural light and connecting the interior with the surrounding garden. An unusual side entrance provides direct access from the garden to the street via a covered porch. The roof of the new extension is clad in vertical timber, with its angular form subtly echoing the heritage rooflines of nearby properties. The project successfully blends the warmth and character of the original dwelling with modern design elements, creating a home that respects its past while providing a suitable environment for future generations. #EdwardianRenovation #HomeExtension #ArchitecturalHeritage #InteriorDesign #MichaelMcKeonArchitecture #ResidentialArchitecture #MaterialPalette #MelbourneHomes #SpatialTransition

This article showcases a meticulously renovated 19th-century Melbourne home, “Victoria House” at 24 Northcote Road, Armadale, that seamlessly blends mid-century modern aesthetics with classic English farmhouse influences. Interior designer Tali Roth led the project for a couple in their 30s who appreciated the home's heritage architecture but desired a more contemporary feel without compromising its original integrity and soul. The renovation journey, undertaken during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed for a deliberate and thoughtful selection of furnishings, with international lead times aligning fortuitously with the construction timeline. The design philosophy embraced the clients' contrasting tastes: one favoring modernist elements and the other, an English-farmhouse look. This dichotomy is evident throughout the house. For instance, the rose-pink library features a cheerful Giancarlo Valle ‘Smile’ chair alongside an 18th-century French verdure tapestry. In the sitting room, a pale grey modular USM ‘Haller’ unit is paired with an armchair re-covered in a decorative, puzzle-pattern fabric. Significant structural changes were made to optimize space and flow. A former bedroom, walk-in-robe, and ensuite were reconfigured into a sitting room, linen closet, and a redesigned bathroom. Existing corridor shelves were retained and repainted, and a floating desk and study nook were converted into a coat closet. The entryway and powder room feature new tumbled Carrara and Bardiglio marble tiles laid in a checkerboard pattern, extending from the hall to the powder room walls. The kitchen, though retaining its original layout due to the extensive scope a larger renovation would entail, underwent a complete rebuild. It now boasts a sophisticated and traditional look with classic tapware, shaker cabinetry, a reeded glass storage cupboard, and Arabescato Corchia marble countertops, replacing the old timber veneer joinery. The living area is thoughtfully curated with a custom steel coffee table, a plump Arflex ‘Marenco’ sofa upholstered in blue mohair velvet, and a large circa 1940s French oak sideboard, aiming for a purposeful, inviting, and usable space within a small footprint. Upstairs, the principal and second bedrooms share a bathroom. A home office overlooks the backyard, while a grand library, overlooking the street, is enveloped in Porter’s Paints French Wash in ‘Victoriana’ pink. This room serves as a reading space, featuring an antique Palladian bookcase, a six-panel Chinese privacy screen, an Artemide ‘Shogun’ floor lamp, and an oversized 18th-century French verdure tapestry. The master bedroom adopts a mid-century aesthetic with calm, muted tones, including Venetian plaster walls and a custom bed and wardrobes. The master ensuite features integrated Calacatta Viola stone for the bath and a custom travertine curved stone sink. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting how Tali Roth's design successfully merged their personalities and preferences, creating a modern yet soulful home that can evolve with them. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MelbourneRealEstate #MidCenturyModern #EnglishFarmhouseStyle #HeritageHome #LuxuryInteriors #DesignCollaboration #PeriodArchitecture

This article highlights the successful remodel of a Tudor-revival style home, originally a carriage house built in 1902, by the design team Kaminski + Pew. The property, located in Philadelphia, had undergone several less tasteful renovations over the years, losing some of its original charm and functionality. The new clients, an older couple relocating from Iowa to be closer to their children, sought a home that honored its history while supporting single-floor living as they aged. The core challenge was that the house was in an "upside-down" configuration, with a dance studio on the first floor and all primary living spaces, including the kitchen, located on the second floor. Kaminski + Pew began the project by thoroughly cataloging the existing details of the home. They identified and appreciated original features such as diamond lattice windows, heavy stonework, tin ceilings, rounded plaster walls, and substantial wood wainscoting. Their primary goal was to restore these elements and ensure that any new additions blended seamlessly with the historical context. The previous insensitive renovations were carefully reversed, and the existing wood floors were sanded and stained a rich chestnut to add sophistication. Damaged or missing trim and wainscoting sections were meticulously rebuilt or matched. The most significant aspect of the renovation involved moving the main living functions to the ground floor. The ground floor, previously a large open space due to its original use as a carriage house and later a dance studio, needed to be reconfigured to accommodate a kitchen, living area, dining room, and a new ground-floor bedroom and bathroom. To achieve a more intimate scale appropriate for a couple, the designers introduced two modest wing walls and a gentle arched opening to delineate the kitchen from the living/dining area. The tin ceiling and wainscoting were extended and adapted to make these new architectural elements appear original. A bold design choice for the kitchen involved selecting Rookwood Red from Sherwin-Williams for the cabinetry. Initially, the clients preferred neutral tones, but the designers persuaded them by drawing inspiration from the home’s red shingle roof and deep red front door, thus integrating the color into the home’s existing palette. For the countertops, a leathered granite was chosen for its soapstone-like appearance, offering durability and lower maintenance compared to actual soapstone. The kitchen also features an antique table sourced from a local auction, chairs from Fourhands, a pendant light from Visual Comfort, and sconces from Hudson Valley Lighting, with appliances from Bosch and a Wolf induction cooktop. Addressing the challenges of an old home, particularly the existing tin ceiling, required innovative solutions. While preserving the tin ceiling added texture and scale, it also presented difficulties when adding new lighting. The team discreetly installed new surface-mounted lighting by routing wires through the ceiling joists above the tin. A fabricator and installer were found to match existing profiles, ensuring that the new electrical work was indistinguishable from the original. Furthermore, a poorly placed spiral staircase that served as the only access to the second floor was removed and replaced with a more gracious stair located off the entryway, enhancing both safety and flow. The redesigned bathrooms feature dark wooden vanities with veined marble countertops and pale blue paneled walls with large mirrors, marble sinks, and gold lighting fixtures. Ultimately, the project transformed a neglected Tudor-style property into a warm and welcoming home that respects its historical narrative while providing modern functionality for its residents. The designers successfully blended past and present, creating a timeless space that meets the client's needs for comfortable single-floor living. #HomeRenovation #TudorRevival #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #SingleFloorLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation #HomeTours

Architect Gil Schafer, alongside interior designer Rita Konig, undertook the ambitious task of transforming a dilapidated former YWCA summer camp in Mill Valley, California, into a charming family home for Mark and Blythe Harris. The initial impression of the property was one of disarray, despite its sprawling size and numerous buildings scattered across a sloped hill. The owners themselves initially dismissed the property, but a nocturnal vision by Mark solidified their decision to purchase it. The primary challenge for Schafer was to infuse the property with a cohesive and charming 'cottage feel' while addressing its structural and layout issues. One significant hurdle was the property's pre-existing maximum expansion, which prevented adding space outward or upward. Schafer creatively solved this by utilizing the space beneath the house, which was built on stilts on a downhill slope. This ingenious approach allowed them to excavate and construct a large family room and a guest suite directly beneath the main structure. Similarly, the area beneath the stilted garage was repurposed to create a 'snug,' a cozy room inspired by British pub back rooms, offering a secluded retreat for the adults. Another major layout problem was the absence of an internal staircase connecting the two levels of the main house. The original design necessitated going outside onto a deck and down unstable steps to move between floors. Schafer reimagined this connecting space, designing it to evoke the feeling of an old porch that had later been glassed-in. This renovation resulted in a top landing bathed in natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors, leading to a larger patio and creating an airy, sun-filled transition zone. To preserve the desired cottage aesthetic and prevent the renovation from stripping away the property's inherent charm, Schafer focused on incorporating materials that felt established and authentic. Reclaimed flooring and vintage wood paneling, sourced from various locations including the Pacific Northwest, North Carolina, and Canada, were integral to this vision. The application of these materials served both aesthetic and functional purposes; vertical wide planks in the downstairs family room visually increased ceiling height, horizontal boards on the staircase mimicked an exterior look, and wainscoting was used in hallways for durability and ease of cleaning. A consistent color palette, featuring hunter green in the dining room and white floors elsewhere, unified the diverse elements and contributed to the home's comfortable, 'old shoe' ambiance. Schafer also addressed the scale of individual rooms, some of which were smaller despite the overall spaciousness of the original building. He opened up ceilings to expose beams throughout, creating a more expansive, lofty feel. A dormer was strategically added to the kitchen's roof to introduce a shaft of light, and doorways were enhanced with transom windows to foster a sense of airiness. The renovation paid meticulous attention to small details, such as incorporating a mix of French and Dutch doors to allow for airflow while keeping children and pets secure. Mark Harris's collection of antique hardware, including old lockboxes and vintage knobs, was integrated throughout the house. Mother-of-pearl push-button light switches replaced standard plastic ones, harmonizing with the oxidized metals. A particularly enchanting feature is a secret opening connecting the kids' rooms, adding a whimsical element reminiscent of childhood magic, ultimately fulfilling the goal of creating a truly special family home. #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CottageStyle #AdaptiveReuse #VintageElements #SpaceMaximization

A 1930s Tudor home in New Rochelle was reimagined by designer Emily Shron to accommodate a young family with three children under the age of five, focusing on durability, ease of maintenance, and a blend of modern tastes with historical preservation. The design prioritized soft edges and performance fabrics throughout the home to withstand the daily activities of young children, ensuring longevity and practicality without compromising on aesthetic appeal. This approach meant incorporating round coffee tables, side tables, and other furniture pieces with gentle curves to prevent accidents, a direct influence from Shron's own experience as a parent. The kitchen and dining areas, central to family life, received particular attention. The kitchen features wipeable surfaces and vinyl chairs in the dining room, ensuring that spills and everyday wear and tear are easily managed. The renovation of the kitchen involved removing a cramped butler's pantry to create a more open-plan space, now featuring a large island with seating for five, a breakfast area, and a dedicated desk for the parents. This transformation aimed to enhance functionality and create a more inviting communal space for the family. While adapting the home for modern family living, Shron maintained a strong commitment to preserving the Tudor's original character. Exposed-beam ceilings and an original fireplace in the living room were highlighted, and original hardwood floors were refinished with an espresso stain to add richness. Window seats, many alongside stained-glass windows, were retained and simply updated with fresh upholstery, allowing the home's historical elements to shine through. This careful balance ensured that the home felt contemporary and family-friendly while respecting its architectural heritage. The children's bedrooms were designed with longevity in mind, featuring full-size beds and sophisticated color palettes such as blush, beige, and navy, rather than overtly childish themes. This decision was based on the desire for the rooms to grow with the children, remaining stylish and appropriate as they age. Similarly, the three bathrooms underwent more significant renovations, allowing Shron to incorporate bold design choices, like Porcelanosa tiles with geometric patterns and graphic black-and-white designs, and a cheerful blue-vinyl wall covering in the powder room. Despite their striking appearances, these materials were chosen for their durability and ease of cleaning, aligning with the overall practical ethos of the project. The master bath was designed as a calm oasis, featuring honed dolomite, mosaic dolomite, and Carrara marble. The blend of custom pieces with furniture from various brands, including Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, RH, and more affordable options like CB2, helped achieve a luxurious aesthetic within a maintained budget, ensuring the space remained livable and welcoming. The clients' preference for gray and navy was integrated throughout the home, complemented by pops of color from artwork and accessories, and enhanced by contemporary light fixtures from Visual Comfort and Jonathan Adler. #HomeDesign #TudorRenovation #FamilyFriendlyInteriors #InteriorDesign #NewRochelleHomes #HistoricPreservation #EmilyShronInteriors #KitchenRenovation #BathroomDesign

This article details the comprehensive kitchen renovation undertaken by journalist and photographer Caroline Briggs in her four-bedroom Edwardian seaside home in Whitley Bay, Newcastle, England. After purchasing the property in 2014, Briggs initially postponed renovating the kitchen, which she dubbed “the kitchen of doom,” due to its dark, inefficient layout and the extensive work required. She recognized that any minor fixes would be temporary and decided to wait for a complete overhaul, a decision she ultimately found rewarding despite the stress and inconvenience, which included washing dishes in the bathtub for months. The renovation transformed the once-dingy space into the heart of her home, where her family now gathers for meals, board games, and creative activities. Briggs emphasizes the importance of incorporating meaningful items into the design, such as a sketch by Tony Curtis, which adds a personal touch to the space. A key aspect of Briggs's design philosophy was to honor the home's original Edwardian character. Although the oil-burning AGA stove was too costly to convert and had to be replaced, she retained charming elements like a stained-glass door and Victorian-glazed bricks. These original features served as a mood board, guiding her material and color choices, including the inspiration for her subway tile backsplash pattern. Briggs demonstrated a strong commitment to upcycling and sourcing unique, reclaimed items. A significant find was a nearly complete set of Victorian kitchen cabinets, including a glass cabinet, drawers, and five cupboards, discovered in an antiques shop by her sister. These were acquired for approximately $1,970 and were expertly integrated into the new kitchen by her joiner, with custom fixtures made from reclaimed timber filling any gaps. Another notable upcycling effort involved salvaging parquet flooring from her children’s school, which was being replaced. Briggs, along with a friend, collected enough of the original 1905 flooring to cover her kitchen, bringing a sense of history and community connection into her home. Briggs describes her decorating process as organic, avoiding rigid spreadsheets and instead shopping instinctively for finishing touches over four years. Her criteria for these items were simple: they had to be reclaimed to maintain the old-world aesthetic. She frequently browses eBay and Facebook Marketplace, trusting her instinct to find pieces she loves and then finding a place for them, rather than planning every detail in advance. She acknowledges that this approach might lead to occasional “bloopers” but ultimately allows for a more personalized and authentic design. Finally, Briggs highlights the critical importance of carefully selecting renovation professionals. While she praised her joiner, she experienced challenges with the builders, which prolonged the project. She advises others to seek recommendations for experienced, “old-school” builders who prioritize quality craftsmanship over flashy brochures, particularly when working with antiques and older structures. The article concludes with product recommendations for items that align with the renovated kitchen's aesthetic, such as white ceramic tiles, a glass dome pendant light, reclaimed wood shelving, and a vintage Turkish rug. #KitchenRenovation #EdwardianHome #Upcycling #Antiques #HomeDesign #ReclaimedMaterials #InteriorDesign #DIYRenovation #PeriodAccents