Melissa Gorga Shows Off a "Funky" Part of Her New House: "It Adds Character" (VIDEO)

Melissa Gorga, a cast member of *The Real Housewives of New Jersey*, recently showcased the kitchen of her new mansion, co-owned with Joe Gorga, located in the West Gate Urban Farms community of New Jersey. The couple moved into the residence in November, and Melissa provided a detailed look at the kitchen's design elements through an Instagram video posted on December 4. She emphasized that kitchen space is a priority for them due to their love for entertaining, tagging Village Handcrafted Cabinetry and Steon-Tech Fabrication, Inc. in her post. The kitchen features an all-white aesthetic with white cabinets, counters, and a matching white backsplash. A central design element consists of not one, but two islands, contributing to the expansive and functional nature of the space. Overhead, three large gold lighting fixtures are prominently displayed, complementing the recessed lighting integrated throughout the room. These gold accents align with similar massive lighting fixtures previously seen in the foyer of their new home, suggesting a consistent design theme. One of the kitchen islands is equipped with a gold sink and soap dispenser, positioned behind a farm-style bowl, adding a touch of elegance to the utilitarian area. The kitchen also boasts a comprehensive suite of cooking appliances, including a double oven and a traditional oven, designed to accommodate large-scale meal preparation. The two islands offer different seating arrangements: one with stools featuring backs and another with round, backless stools, providing variety and flexibility for casual dining or social gatherings. Adjacent to the main kitchen area, Melissa highlighted a breakfast nook, which features an arched ceiling that adds architectural interest. This area is brightened by numerous windows and French doors, allowing for ample natural light. A unique light fixture further enhances the ambiance of the breakfast nook, making it an inviting space for morning meals or relaxed conversations. The design also incorporates a large china chest, crafted from the same material as the base of the islands, providing cohesive storage solutions. However, the move into their new home has not been without complications. Joe Gorga recently faced legal action, being accused of failing to pay a construction company, COUNTY CONCRETE CORPORATION, approximately $30,000 for materials provided between September 2021 and January 2022. The lawsuit alleges that these materials were used for various construction projects on the property. Despite this legal issue, the couple continues to furnish and present their new living spaces, with *The Real Housewives of New Jersey* season 13 expected to air in early 2023. #MelissaGorga #JoeGorga #RHONJ #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor #Mansion #RealityTV #InteriorDesign #LuxuryKitchen

Melissa Gorga, a cast member from "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" (RHONJ), unveiled her newly completed backyard oasis, transforming it into a resort-like retreat. Although the Gorgas moved into their Franklin Lakes home in November 2022, the outdoor area underwent significant work that was finalized recently. The extensive renovation features a meticulously designed space that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. Central to the backyard's appeal is a large sliding glass door from the kitchen, creating an open-concept flow to the back patio. The patio is furnished with midcentury-style black chairs featuring white cushions and a large round black table, lending an elegant touch. Rectangular black lantern sconces and an ivory outdoor fireplace enhance the cozy ambiance. An impressive outdoor kitchen area further complements the patio, equipped with a grill and smoker, catering to outdoor culinary needs. The backyard's centerpiece is a stunning pool area. This includes a serene arrangement of daybeds, white deck chairs with black cushions, and a Baja shelf within the pool, featuring built-in white lounge chairs. Adjacent to the pool, an additional lounge area showcases contemporary elegant design with large black chairs and a long black loveseat adorned with cream-colored cushions. These pieces are situated on sleek concrete pavers interspersed with black stones, all encircling a prominent rectangular fireplace. Gorga's vision for the backyard was to evoke the feeling of a resort, emphasizing ample lounge seating and numerous fireplaces for gathering. The sounds of waterfalls contribute to a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, fulfilling her desire for a serene environment. Melissa Gorga provided further details on the design and construction of her backyard in 2023, acknowledging The Pool Boss, a New Jersey-based company, for their exemplary work on the pool. She thanked her friend, who is a pool designer with The Pool Boss, for realizing her family's desires for the space. The outdoor furniture, including the daybeds, were sourced from The Wickery, an outdoor furniture retailer. The Pool Boss also shared images of the finished backyard on social media, highlighting how the upper and lower patio areas seamlessly integrate with the pool, underscoring the resort-like quality of the entire outdoor setting. The company described the backyard as a "magazine worthy" space that "screams five-star resort," confirming the successful execution of Gorga's luxurious vision. #MelissaGorga #RHONJ #HomeTours #BackyardDesign #OutdoorLiving #LuxuryPools #FranklinLakesHome #InteriorDesign #ResortStyle

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

Lauren Wesley Designs, an Atlanta-based interior design firm founded by Ebonee Clark and Jameelah Watkins, both featured on HGTV's "Married to Real Estate," has transformed a fashion model's historic Roswell loft into a distinctive work of art. The designers aimed to create a bold, passionate, yet comfortable and welcoming space that reflects the client's personality and style. Their approach eschewed monochrome trends, embracing a colorful boho aesthetic characterized by natural elements and striking statement pieces. The designers emphasized the transformative power of wallpaper, noting that modern options offer unique ways to add interest, texture, and artistry to a home, with the added benefit of being removable for versatility. They highlighted that contemporary wallpaper is far removed from its traditional, often dated, perception. A key aspect of the design involved leveraging the loft's architectural features, particularly its breathtaking windows. The designers sought to integrate the outdoors, creating a seamless flow between the interior and the natural environment. A standout space in the home is the "content room," which features large black panel windows providing abundant natural light. This room was specifically designed to serve as a perfect backdrop for fashion hauls and content creation. The application of palm leaf wallpaper throughout this room adds a unique touch, complementing a blush sofa and a beaded blue chandelier, thereby contributing to the room's overall aesthetic and functionality. Ebonee Clark and Jameelah Watkins underscore the importance of taking risks in interior design. They believe that apprehension about selecting bold wallpaper or non-traditional upholstery colors can limit creativity. Instead, they encourage clients and aspiring designers to be adventurous in their choices, asserting that design should be inspiring and enjoyable. This philosophy is central to their work, enabling them to craft spaces that are not only visually appealing but also deeply personal to their clients. Beyond merely beautifying homes, Lauren Wesley Designs aims to inspire their clients to embrace a lifestyle that celebrates individuality and personal well-being. They view their role as interior designers as an opportunity to connect with clients on a deeper level, transforming living spaces into reflections of who their clients are and aspire to be. This holistic approach to design fosters environments that are vibrant, authentic, and conducive to a fulfilling life, moving beyond mere aesthetics to create meaningful and inspiring personal sanctuaries. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AtlantaDesign #HGTV #RoswellLoft #BohoStyle #WallpaperTrends #LaurenWesleyDesigns

Mark and Mitzi Knust, a Houston couple, undertook a comprehensive renovation of their Galveston Bay vacation home to accommodate their expanding family, including grandchildren. Mark Knust's childhood memories of spending summers in his family's Galveston vacation home inspired a desire for his own children and grandchildren to share similar experiences. In 1985, the couple initially purchased a home in Pirates Cove with Mark’s brother, but later acquired a larger property in the same neighborhood to better suit their growing family. This home became a cherished place where their two sons, now 34 and 31, learned to fish and swim, and frequently hosted friends. The home faced significant damage in 2008 from Hurricane Ike’s storm surge, which destroyed the bottom level and led to looting. Despite this setback, the Knusts rebuilt and continued to host family and friends. By 2015, with the arrival of grandchildren, they recognized the need for an even larger space to comfortably host three generations and foster their shared love for water sports. After considering building a new home, they opted to purchase an existing property in Pirates Cove, confident that with the right professionals, they could transform it into their ideal family retreat. They enlisted Doug LeBoeuf of LeBoeuf Homes, their preferred builder, and interior designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors. The renovation, which began in January 2016 and concluded in November of the same year, aimed for a more contemporary aesthetic with light colors and comfortable, casual furnishings. Given Mark's height of 6 feet 5 inches and their sons' similar stature (one being a 275-pound power lifter), the furniture needed to be sturdy and generously sized. The design also had to be sophisticated enough for semi-retired grandparents while durable enough for a messy grandchild who enjoyed spaghetti. The initial design challenges included yellow interior walls and dated, traditional furnishings. Flanigan's approach prioritized maximizing changes within a reasonable budget. A key transformation involved repainting the yellow walls white, often incorporating a shiplap treatment, to create a clean, fresh, coastal, and airy atmosphere. The color palette shifted to contemporary grays and earthy neutrals, accented with soft blue-green tones inspired by the ocean. Durability was a paramount concern, with nearly all furniture being new and upholstered in tough, indoor-outdoor fabrics to ensure the home was extremely livable for active grandchildren. The renovation also included a complete overhaul of the master bathroom and significant updates to the kitchen and other bathrooms. Major surface changes included refinishing the wood flooring from an orange-pine to a natural look. The chunky limestone fireplace was replaced with a concrete finish, shiplap, and a reclaimed wood mantel, with ceramic balls inside the fireplace becoming a favorite feature for Mark. Four-inch tiles on kitchen and bathroom counters were replaced with sheets of super-sturdy Neolith sintered stone. In the master bathroom, an oversized garden tub was replaced with a slimmer soaking tub, and Saltillo tile was swapped for wood-look porcelain tile in a dark taupe finish. Natural wood cabinets were stained brown and topped with gray-veined Neolith stone, mimicking Carrara marble without the maintenance. The finished design created a clean and flawless environment, with comfortable furniture and rooms perfectly suited to the Knusts and their family. One guest room was specifically designed for grandchildren with twin beds and matching trunks, and a sectional sofa on the second-floor landing provided additional sleeping space. The couple’s collaboration with Flanigan, despite initial hesitations from Mark on certain design elements like the ceramic fireplace balls and a large pendant light in the master bedroom, ultimately resulted in a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing home that met their intergenerational living needs. The home also incorporated sentimental elements, such as a collection of wildlife art and taxidermy fish mounts, which Flanigan’s team successfully integrated into the updated décor. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GalvestonBayHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalDecor #BeforeAndAfter #MarieFlaniganInteriors #LeBoeufHomes #DesignTransformation

This article shares valuable shopping tips for HomeGoods, a popular home decor chain known for its deals. The author, a home design director, provides strategies to maximize savings and find unique items. One key recommendation is to shop early in the day, preferably on weekdays like Thursdays, when stores are well-stocked and organized. Mondays can also be good as shipments often arrive then, but may involve more restocking activity. Building a rapport with sales associates is highlighted as a beneficial strategy, especially when searching for specific items or brands, as they can provide alerts on new arrivals. Shoppers are advised to look for red price tags, which indicate clearance prices at HomeGoods and its sister stores (TJ Maxx, Homesense, and Sierra). While dedicated clearance sections exist, marked-down items are often found mixed throughout the store. The article emphasizes the importance of thoroughly searching shelves and displays, as many hidden gems and misplaced items can be found by sifting through layers of products like pillows and artwork. The author recounts an experience of finding a matching storage bin by searching diligently through a stack. Dedicated sections for bedding and towels are presented as prime locations for discovering high-quality items from well-known brands such as Stearns & Foster, Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein at discounted prices. The organizational method of towels by color is noted as a particular advantage for decorators. The kitchen section is identified as another area with excellent deals, offering everything from holiday-themed dish towels to baking pans and branded items like Mikasa dishes and Le Creuset baking dishes. HomeGoods is also recommended as a go-to for wooden cutting boards, suitable for both meal prep and charcuterie presentations. The article encourages shoppers to remain open to discovering lesser-known brands, as quality is not solely dependent on brand recognition, and many high-quality products come from smaller companies. This approach is particularly useful for finding multiple items for special occasions or exploring new decor trends. Lastly, shoppers are encouraged to negotiate discounts on slightly defective items and to utilize the store's hold service for larger purchases, ensuring they don't miss out on desired pieces due to immediate transportation challenges. #HomeGoods #ShoppingTips #HomeDecor #DiscountShopping #InteriorDesign #ClearanceDeals #SmartShopping #RetailSecrets

Studio McGee, led by founder Shea McGee, has unveiled its latest project, 'The Oaks,' a newly constructed home in San Antonio, Texas. This residence is designed to evoke a sense of thoughtful craftsmanship and timelessness, blending modern and traditional elements. The property's design is heavily influenced by the surrounding grove of oak trees, integrating natural elements and a rustic aesthetic with contemporary sophistication. The living room, centrally located, is characterized by its spaciousness and abundant natural light. Shea McGee has incorporated warm accents and a color palette inspired by the outdoor environment to create a cozy yet grand atmosphere. The design includes inviting curves, soft textures, and warm-toned furniture like beige armchairs and a linen sofa. Large floor-to-ceiling windows ensure a strong visual connection to the majestic oak trees outside, reinforcing the home's organic integration with its setting. The kitchen, though part of an open-plan layout, is subtly defined by a wooden trim framing its entrance. It features rustic decor, reminiscent of modern farmhouse style, with a natural wood shelf floating over sleek steel windows. This shelf is styled with collected pieces that have varied textures, earthy tones, and natural materials, exemplifying McGee's approach to blending new construction with traditional and vintage charm to add character. Throughout the house, large Crittall-style windows in spaces like the snug room offer continuous views of the oak grove. Wood is a prominent material, seen in the snug's wood-paneled ceiling and warm brown sofas. The games room stands out with its wood-paneled walls and a midcentury, 70s-inspired aesthetic, featuring an oak wood lining, a wooden pool table, and wooden flooring. This consistent use of wood drenching throughout the space aligns with a contemporary trend while ensuring a timeless appeal. The dining room exhibits a contemporary feel with metal doors that enhance light and fluidity, connecting it to adjacent areas. It combines modern curved furniture with vintage-style glass pendant lights, showcasing the balance between streamlined architecture and charming, vintage details. The abundant use of wood in this space further emphasizes the project's core inspiration. The 'morning room' is designed as a tranquil space overlooking the natural scenery, perfect for starting the day. This room incorporates a trend of saturated colors, with its coffered ceiling, walls, and trim all painted in a rich, moody green-gray. The mudroom, despite its practical function, also reflects meticulous attention to detail, featuring herringbone flooring, a floor-length window offering views of the oak trees, and subtle nature-inspired wall art. The laundry room is a delicate, airy space with a neutral palette, fine zellige tiles, cream cabinetry, and marble countertops, elevated with gold accents and rustic elements. Even the entryway reflects the natural inspiration, combining stone, wood, and marble accents for an organic texture blend. A large-scale painting and subtle bird motifs throughout the home acknowledge the client's affinity for birds and nature. The playroom is a whimsical space for children, designed with pink walls and a leafy sage green table, paired with wooden chairs. Functional shelving displays children's books colorfully, and an antique-style pendant light adds rustic charm. The master bedroom, like many other rooms, offers views of the outdoor scenery, with architectural placement specifically designed to capture these views of the oak trees. The room's ambiance is enhanced by three types of lighting: a modern candelabra, wall sconces, and stoneware bedside lamps. The master bathroom features a central window as its focal point, with double vanity units, modern mirrors, and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the garden. The neutral color palette and organic textures in the bathroom, including limestone, alabaster, brass, travertine, and linen, contribute to a serene and natural aesthetic. The garden itself is integral to the home's design, with the property built amidst the oak trees, ensuring that natural views are always central to the living experience. This project successfully blends organic elements with modern and vintage design styles, creating a liveable and aspirational home deeply connected to its natural surroundings. #SheaMcGee #ModernRustic #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #StudioMcGee #TheOaksProject #SanAntonioHomes #NaturalElements #VintageDecor

Olympic gymnast Simone Biles has provided an update on the ongoing renovations of her Texas mansion, which she is building with her husband, Jonathan Owens. The couple began construction on their "forever home" in September 2023, shortly after their marriage in April of the same year. Despite her recent return from a successful Olympic run, Biles continues to oversee the development of her waterfront property. Biles took to her Instagram Stories to showcase the significant progress made on the interior of the house during her absence. The kitchen now features modern white cabinets and a prominent black and white marble island, creating a luxurious aesthetic. Another image revealed what appears to be the initial stages of a walk-in wet room, characterized by glimmering floor tiles, marble walls, and a floor drain positioned near a window. A mirror selfie captured during this update showed Biles amidst construction debris, indicating that the renovation work is still in progress. Further snapshots shared by Biles highlighted recently unveiled white cabinets and drawers. These new additions could potentially be used to display her extensive collection of medals and trophies, given her status as the most decorated gymnast of all time following her performance at the Paris Olympics, or to house her wardrobe. Biles has consistently kept her fans informed about the project, previously sharing a photo in November 2023 that displayed the home's impressive wooden beams and high ceilings, expressing her excitement with the caption "eeeeeeeppppp." The renovation process has not been without its challenges. In November 2023, Biles detailed a significant setback, recounting how she spent several hours addressing an issue at the construction site. She initially anticipated it to be a brief task, but it turned into a prolonged engagement. Despite the difficulties, Biles expressed her pride in the progress made, noting that she had called her father for assistance during a moment of panic. She also playfully remarked that her husband, Jonathan, would have to deal with the final outcome, expressing hope that she had managed the situation effectively and considered all necessary aspects. Biles’s husband, Jonathan Owens, a football star, was able to take time off his pre-season training to support her at the Olympics, where she secured three gold and one silver medal, increasing her total Olympic medal count to 11 and overall international medals to 43. #SimoneBiles #CelebrityHomes #HomeRenovation #TexasMansion #LuxuryDesign #InteriorDesign #OlympicGymnast #HouseConstruction

Sarah Jessica Parker, known for her distinctive fashion sense, extends her impeccable style to her New York City townhouse, as evidenced by a recent glimpse shared on Instagram. The image reveals an inviting room bathed in sunlight, featuring a blue tartan lounge and a brass vase filled with bold red flowers on a coffee table. The backdrop includes a deep-hued floral wallpaper and a tasselled yellow cushion with a unique floral pattern, all contributing to an eccentric yet romantic aesthetic. Fans expressed appreciation for the textures, colors, and cozy ambiance of the space. Parker and her husband, Matthew Broderick, purchased the West Village townhouse in 2016 for $34.5 million, embarking on a renovation to imbue the property with their personal touch. The residence spans over 13,900 square feet and reportedly includes a 2,100-square-foot garden and a library, catering to Parker's passion for reading. Morris Adjmi Architects, known for their work on the Samsung building and the Austin Nichols House, oversaw the renovations, which reportedly cost $50 million. This aligns with Parker's long-standing interest in interior design, previously showcased in a 2014 Vogue '73 Questions' feature that highlighted her former Greenwich Village home. That property featured floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, unique artworks, and an antique sideboard with a vintage drinks tray. Beyond their New York City residence, Parker and Broderick also own a $6.5 million Hampton's hideaway. This seafront property was briefly available for rent on Booking.com in 2022, offered for two nights at a modest price. Parker's personal message for the listing emphasized a desire for guests to feel at home, encouraging them to enjoy the secluded backyard, spend time at the beach, dine at local restaurants, and utilize the fully stocked bar and vintage appliances. This article highlights Parker's consistent dedication to creating personalized and stylish living spaces, reflecting her unique aesthetic across multiple properties. The blend of bold patterns, rich colors, and thoughtful details defines her approach to home decoration, demonstrating how her personal style translates effectively into interior design. #SarahJessicaParker #CelebrityHomes #NYCTownhouse #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MatthewBroderick #WestVillage #Hamptons

Stone Contstruction and Design undertook a significant renovation project on a downtown Greenville home, transforming it into a modern living space while preserving its inherent character. The house, described as having 'perfect bones,' allowed for extensive structural modifications to enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal for a new family and a contemporary lifestyle. A central element of this renovation involved opening up the downstairs area, a complex task that necessitated the installation of a substantial 4,000-pound, 26-foot steel beam. This structural alteration was crucial for creating a more expansive and open-plan living environment, which is a hallmark of modern home design. The redesign focused on several key areas, including the kitchen, which now features an open island. This island is distinguished by a half-waterfall countertop, stained cabinetry, and integrated under-counter lighting, all contributing to a sophisticated and practical space. The choice of materials and lighting aims to blend functionality with a sleek, contemporary look. Another notable addition is a deep green home office. This space is designed to be both private and well-lit, thanks to the inclusion of wide doors that allow ample natural light to penetrate the room, creating an inviting and productive atmosphere. The integration of color, such as the deep green in the office, suggests a thoughtful approach to interior design, adding personality and depth to the redesigned areas. The overall project by Stone Contstruction and Design exemplifies a comprehensive home renovation that goes beyond superficial changes to involve significant structural work and interior design updates. The objective was to create a 'new home inside an existing one,' indicating a transformation so thorough that the original structure feels entirely re-imagined. This approach highlights a trend in urban living where older, well-built homes are adapted to meet current living standards and preferences, offering both historical charm and modern conveniences. The emphasis on opening up spaces, modernizing key areas like the kitchen and home office, and using durable, aesthetically pleasing materials showcases a commitment to quality and contemporary design. #HomeRenovations #GreenvilleSC #InteriorDesign #StructuralChanges #ModernLiving #KitchenDesign #HomeOffice #CustomHomeBuilding

Joanna Gaines, co-founder of Magnolia Network, recently completed a significant home renovation, transforming her youngest son Crew’s former bedroom into a sophisticated butler’s pantry. This project, documented on her TV series 'Mini Reni,' reflects Gaines’s philosophy that a home should evolve with its occupants. The renovated space seamlessly blends Gaines’s signature farmhouse aesthetic with elegant, Parisian-inspired design elements, creating a functional yet stylish area. The central feature of the pantry is an antique worktable with a dolomite top, intended for meal preparation and entertaining. Adjacent to this, a storage hutch with a rolling ladder, reminiscent of a Parisian store, provides ample, visible storage for pantry items. A brass rod above the sink serves a dual purpose, allowing for the drying of flowers and herbs, adding both decorative and practical touches. The renovation also includes an appliance wall, designed to maximize the utility of the space. The flooring is a key design element, featuring tiles laid in a 'daisy-esque pattern' that complements the scalloped motifs used elsewhere in the room. Underneath these tiles, the original pine wood flooring has been preserved and protected with plywood, offering flexibility for future design changes. The room’s existing 1800s fireplace was not removed but rather integrated into the new design. Gaines made it functional by installing a wood-burning stove insert and repurposed the mantle and surrounding area for storage, specifically for her homemade jarred honey and other items produced by her bees, showcased on open shelving. Near the windows, Gaines created a designated 'micro-space' for morning coffee, furnished with a small antique table and chairs. This area provides a tranquil spot to enjoy the pastoral views. Decorative elements within the pantry hold personal significance for Gaines. These include a framed recipe for Syrian donuts, inherited from her grandfather, who was a source of culinary inspiration, and a salvaged piece of yellow rose wallpaper from the room’s previous owners, which she also framed. The overall design demonstrates Gaines's ability to maximize every available inch of a small space, creating a highly organized and aesthetically pleasing butler's pantry that supports her passion for cooking, baking, and hosting. #JoannaGaines #HomeRenovation #PantryDesign #FarmhouseStyle #InteriorDesign #BeforeAndAfter #StorageSolutions #MagnoliaNetwork #ButlerPantry

This article details a personal account of a home renovation project, challenging the common perception that renovations are inherently stressful or nightmarish experiences. The author, Alice Stolz, National Managing Editor of Domain and a property expert, recounts her first renovation experience, emphasizing that despite a relatively tight budget and challenging circumstances, she found the process enjoyable and transformative. The initial objective for the renovation was to create a liveable and functional home within the established budget. The planning phase involved extensive discussion and iteration between the author and her husband, a process that, while initially frustrating, ultimately led to compromise and adherence to financial constraints. This period of intense planning and decision-making is presented as a crucial part of the overall positive experience, fostering personal growth and discipline. The renovation proceeded under difficult conditions, including lockdown restrictions and the inherent challenges of updating an old, compromised house. Despite these obstacles, the author expresses a deep appreciation for the demolition and construction phases, finding satisfaction in the physical transformation of the space and the strategic decisions involved in allocating resources—prioritizing essential elements like the kitchen benchtop and quality joinery, and economizing elsewhere. The project became a mental escape during a restrictive period, providing a sense of progress and purpose. A significant aspect of the positive experience was the collaboration with skilled professionals, including an incredible builder and interior design studio. The author highlights her admiration for their ability to envision and create spaces, likening them to magicians. The dedication and craftsmanship of individual tradespeople, such as meticulous tilers, patient painters, and precise joiners, are specifically praised, contributing to the overall satisfaction with the project. Ultimately, the renovation resulted in a home that, while not perfectly flawless with its existing structural quirks, is cherished for its character and history. The article concludes by advocating for embracing these imperfections, contrasting them with a prevalent desire for absolute perfection. The renovation transformed not just the physical space but also the author's perspective, fostering an appreciation for the journey and the unique qualities that make a house a home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BudgetRenovation #PropertyDevelopment #HomeImprovement #PersonalExperience #BuildingProcess #DesignChallenges #SkilledTrades

Tamra Judge, known from The Real Housewives of Orange County, has embarked on a comprehensive renovation of her Covenant Hills residence, focusing extensively on both its interior and exterior. After selling their previous $2 million Coto de Caza property, Tamra and Eddie Judge moved back into this home, which had previously been occupied by renters. The renovation efforts have been ongoing, with Tamra sharing updates on the progress with her followers. One of the most significant changes to the property is the exterior paint job. Tamra announced the transformation on Instagram, noting the departure from the home's original yellow hue. The house is being repainted a bright white, a substantial shift in its aesthetic. During the painting process, protective plastic covered various sections of the exterior, and remnants of the former yellow color were still visible in certain areas, particularly on the steps leading to the house, indicating that the work was in progress. Beyond the exterior, the interior of the home has also undergone considerable modifications. In March, Tamra detailed some of these internal renovations. The kitchen saw the removal of existing arches, aiming for a more open and modern feel. New, lighter-colored flooring has been installed throughout the house, contributing to a brighter and more contemporary ambiance. The laundry room was also updated with a distinct black-and-white patterned tile, adding a touch of design to a functional space. Further into the home, the master bathroom and closet received a complete overhaul. Tamra described how these areas were gutted and then transformed into a single, luxurious suite. Following the completion of this particular renovation, she expressed her satisfaction to her Instagram followers, stating her absolute obsession with the outcome. While acknowledging that some elements like window treatments and rugs were still pending, she highlighted the success of the shower's transformation and the extensive new closet space. In addition to her own home, Tamra Judge has extended her renovation expertise to her mother, Sandy's house. She shared details of a do-it-yourself project involving a fireplace facelift. This project, which she estimated cost $30.00, included painting the old brown travertine white. She then stenciled a Spanish tile pattern using chalked aged gray paint and extended this gray color up the adjacent wall. Tamra explained that this intervention created a focal point in the small space. Future plans for her mother's fireplace renovation include the installation of wood floating shelves and new logs, indicating ongoing DIY projects. These renovation projects collectively demonstrate Tamra Judge's commitment to updating and personalizing her living spaces, both for herself and her family members. The changes range from significant structural and aesthetic alterations to smaller, yet impactful, decorative updates. #TamraJudge #RHOC #HomeRenovation #HousePainting #InteriorDesign #ExteriorTransformation #DIYProjects #CovenantHills #RealityTV

This blog post details the transformation of a three-story brick row house in South Slope, Brooklyn, into a bright and functional single-family home. The owners, a young family, sought to address the common issue of dark interiors found in many brownstones and desired additional living space. Architect Philipp von Dalwig of vonDALWIG Architecture spearheaded the renovation, which involved a significant gut-renovation and the construction of a two-story rear extension. The project began with a comprehensive demolition, removing a garden apartment and nearly all original interior structures, while preserving the main staircase. All mechanical systems were updated. The core of the renovation focused on maximizing natural light and expanding the living area. The new two-story extension features larger window and door openings, complemented by an array of skylights. These design elements effectively channel light into the central areas of the building, eliminating the previously dark ambiance. The front entry of the house remains on the parlor level, leading to a bay-windowed living room at the front. A central library and playroom, equipped with a book-lined niche and built-in seating, caters to the homeowners' two small children. The dining room and kitchen are situated on the upper level of the new duplex extension. A notable design feature is an opening in the floor towards the rear, which creates a double-height, multi-purpose space that connects visually to the garden level below. Pivot doors offer direct access to the garden from this lower level. The garden level also includes a guest room and bath at the front, along with a media room. The upper floors house the family bedrooms, a laundry area, and two new bathrooms. A deck off the master bedroom sits atop the new addition, providing outdoor space. Material selections and specific features are highlighted throughout the article. White engineered oak from LV Wood was used for the flooring. The kitchen, visible from the library/play niche, incorporates appliances primarily from Miele and pendant lights from Apparatus. A powder room is discreetly placed behind flush refrigerator and pantry storage. The kitchen's center island is crafted from Marini Marni, a natural stone from Italy, sourced through ABC Stone. The opening in the floor, which creates the double-height space, is secured with netting similar to that used for soccer goals, set into custom steel rails. Pendant lights from Flos illuminate this area. The exterior of the extension features a subtle geometric pattern applied to the stucco with a trowel, designed to create varying visual effects with the changing sunlight. The double-height space downstairs is described as a "robust functional space" suitable for entertaining and art projects, with its floor and custom elements, including a rectangular sink, made from the same terrazzo-like Italian stone as the kitchen counter. The downstairs media room includes storage beneath a stone-topped seating ledge and a wood-burning fireplace. The project successfully transformed a dark, traditional row house into a bright, spacious, and highly functional modern home, addressing the clients' desire for increased natural light and additional square footage through thoughtful architectural design and material choices. #TownhouseRenovation #SouthSlope #ArchitecturalDesign #RearExtension #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #BrooklynRealEstate #ResidentialArchitecture

Rachel Gray, a Memphis-based interior designer, showcases her creative philosophy through the design of her own home, which serves as a living laboratory for her design principles. Unlike her professional work, where she follows a structured layering process for clients, her personal approach prioritizes continuous change, experimentation, and the integration of found objects and art. Her design decisions are influenced by her global travels, embracing diverse aesthetics and a willingness to evolve her living space. Gray views her home as an interior design lab, where she tests new ideas and evaluates products before recommending them to clients. An example is the rug under her dining room's Parsons table, which she is currently assessing for quality. Her dining room features a unique "Mary Poppins" light fixture, crafted from copper by an Italian designer, alongside red aluminum chairs sourced from St. Louis. The ever-changing nature of her home is highlighted by the recent replacement of dining chairs, a decision prompted by a client's interest in her previous set. Decorative elements like a "Therapy" sign found on the street and brass Moroccan lanterns discovered during an attic clean-up further illustrate her penchant for eclectic and unexpected finds. Gray is also an art consultant with a focus on abstract paintings and mixed media. She is known for guiding clients in selecting art that not only complements their interiors but also has investment potential. Her own home reflects this passion, with pieces like a Jeri Ledbetter painting, purchased for her daughter Vivian, adorning the foyer. Beyond art, Gray has a passion for furniture design and repurposing objects. Bamboo panels in her living room, which have served multiple functions from headboards to suspended lighting installations, exemplify her experimental approach to design. Her living room features an antique iron horse, a "slam dunk" discovery from an estate sale, and a circular art sculpture found on the side of a street, originally a wooden structure from a dock. A repurposed bottle-drying rack from France currently functions as a lamp, with plans to transform it into a ceiling-mounted light fixture. Gray's design aesthetic often combines unpredictable elements into seamless vignettes, such as a candle altar from Michigan juxtaposed with antique chest and mirror, reflecting woodcut prints by artist Ted Faiers. Gray's second favorite item in her home is an antique iron and wire fire screen, acquired through persistence from an antique store owner who initially deemed it not for sale. Similarly, she salvaged an oversized outdoor antique store sign, relocating it herself, showcasing her determination to incorporate unique, narrative-rich pieces into her decor. A core tenet of her design philosophy is that a home should reflect its inhabitants' favorite things, ensuring every object has a story. She emphasizes the importance of proper scale and lighting in any interior design project, advocating for dimmers to control mood and acknowledging the significant impact of natural light on color and material choices. Gray believes color should create a fluid, cohesive experience within a home, rather than segmenting spaces. Ultimately, her home is a dynamic expression of her creative process, design philosophy, and lifestyle, resulting in an engaging and evolving environment. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MemphisDesigner #ArtCollecting #RepurposedFurniture #EclecticStyle #HomeExperimentation #DesignPhilosophy #RachelGray

This article explores the personal home of Christina El Moussa, co-host of HGTV's 'Flip or Flop,' located in the Yorba Linda neighborhood of Orange County, California. Contrary to the public perception shaped by her recent personal life and on-screen design style, El Moussa's 6,000-square-foot Spanish-style house reveals a unique aesthetic she describes as 'rustic glam.' The home's design deviates significantly from the typical 'Flip or Flop' houses, which predominantly feature neutral color palettes. While El Moussa's personal residence also utilizes black, white, and gray, her approach here is distinctly her own. The design journey for the home began with pearlescent wallpaper in the hallway, which served as inspiration for the rest of the interior. This silvery, shimmery base is balanced with masculine elements, such as wrought iron details, which were deliberately maintained to achieve the 'rustic glam' look. A notable rustic touch includes a beamed ceiling in the family room, crafted from wood reclaimed from one of her and Tarek's 'Flip or Flop' projects. A prominent design motif throughout the house is a classic trellis pattern, appearing in various spaces from the bedroom to the powder room and home theater, further emphasizing the graphic and glamorous aspect of her aesthetic. El Moussa's minimalist style is a direct contrast to her childhood environment, which was characterized by Asian-inspired decor and an abundance of trinkets. She candidly shares that excessive clutter induces anxiety for her, prompting her to integrate clever storage solutions, such as those found in a former library space and the family room's media console. Her design philosophy prioritizes a clean and uncluttered look. To bridge the gap between the home's inherent Spanish architectural style and her inclination for glamour, El Moussa incorporated statement chandeliers and crystal accessories. The formal dining room, in particular, showcases this fusion, although she admits it is primarily for aesthetic appeal rather than frequent use. The article also touches upon the changes in her home since her separation from Tarek, noting that most design elements have remained constant, with the exception of a newly remodeled backyard. This outdoor space, featuring pool waterfalls and a mini putting green, serves as a personal sanctuary where she seeks positive energy and refuge. Despite the public scrutiny surrounding her personal life and ongoing professional relationship with Tarek for 'Flip or Flop,' El Moussa is committed to maintaining a positive outlook, prioritizing her children and her well-being. #ChristinaElMoussa #CelebrityHomes #HomeDesign #RusticGlam #InteriorDesign #HGTVStars #YorbaLinda #DecorTrends #PersonalStyle