Designer Kenji Ito Remodels His NYC Apartment

HAMS and Studio undertook the renovation of an apartment situated in the suburbs of Tokyo, Japan, with the intention of transforming it into a flexible living environment tailored for a working couple. The project, titled 'One Nuance,' aimed to deviate from the apartment's original rigid grid plan by introducing subtle variations in spatial composition, color, and material finishes. This strategic approach sought to create an adaptable living space that could accommodate a diverse range of activities and lifestyles. The design process commenced by addressing the existing layout, which notably featured a corner-room configuration. The primary intervention involved the elimination of traditional corridors, a common feature in many apartments that can fragment spaces and limit natural light. In their place, smaller, more versatile rooms were arranged along the exterior walls. This reorientation served to maximize natural light penetration and foster a brighter, more open ambiance throughout the apartment, significantly enhancing the overall sense of spaciousness. A central element of the redesigned apartment is the living room, conceived as an open and fluid zone. This open-plan living area establishes direct connections with the surrounding smaller rooms, promoting an interactive and relaxed atmosphere. A distinctive feature of the renovation is the implementation of a 'double-opening' design. This innovative system comprises 'outer openings' that are strategically positioned to draw natural light deeper into the interior spaces. Complementing these, 'inner openings' are integrated into the internal partitions, serving to frame and visually connect various living activities happening within the apartment, thereby creating a continuous and expansive internal vista. The aesthetic and functional versatility of the apartment is further elaborated through the nuanced design of the internal facades. The appearance of these facades is intentionally varied, contingent upon the specific purpose of each adjoining smaller room and the type of partition employed. This thoughtful differentiation generates a series of unique 'viewports' throughout the home, adding visual interest and spatial depth. For instance, robust plastering was selected for the internal walls, providing a textured and durable surface. In contrast, glossy solid finishes were applied to the passages leading to the living room, contributing to a sense of fluidity and light reflection. The selection of materials and finishes, characterized by subtle textures and a cohesive color palette, was critical in establishing the apartment's dynamic and harmonious environment. The objective was to ensure that while individual spaces retained their distinct character, they collectively formed a unified and aesthetically pleasing whole. This attention to detail in material application and color scheme reinforces the project's 'One Nuance' concept, where slight variations contribute to a richer and more adaptable living experience for the inhabitants. The renovation successfully transforms a standard suburban apartment into a sophisticated and highly functional dwelling, ready to meet the evolving needs of its occupants. #ApartmentRenovation #TokyoArchitecture #FlexibleLiving #InteriorDesign #SpatialComposition #HAMSandStudio #ResidentialArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving

Architect Michael Geller and his wife, Tess, transformed their 495-square-foot one-bedroom apartment in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, infusing it with a unique "Greco Deco" theme that blends Mediterranean influences with Art Deco details and 1970s aesthetics. The renovation, initially expected to take three months but extending to nine, aimed to make the tiny prewar space feel larger, brighter, and more functional, leveraging Geller's experience with period homes. A significant part of the renovation focused on the compact 36-square-foot kitchen. While Geller initially planned to fully open it to the living room, plumbing constraints prevented this. Instead, he partially removed a wall, relocated the doorway to create a wider opening, and completely flipped the cabinet layout. This strategic change allowed for the inclusion of an L-shaped countertop, a 24-inch range, and a full-size refrigerator, effectively nearly doubling the storage capacity. The new custom cabinets were painted in Benjamin Moore’s buttery White Down to ensure the kitchen felt warm regardless of natural light. The bathroom underwent a careful restoration to align with its original 1920s architecture. Geller salvaged and reinstalled the existing medicine cabinet, replacing a modern budget vanity with an American Standard console sink that captured the desired Art Deco feel. The walls were covered in simple subway tiles with white grout, chosen for the interesting texture it created. For the flooring, he selected prewar-style penny tiles, appreciated for their tactile quality underfoot, and updated them with dark contrasting grout to modernize the look. Other areas of the apartment received thoughtful upgrades. Hardwood floors were refinished, new built-in closets were installed, and antique 19th-century doorknobs were sourced from Olde Good Things, reflecting Geller's early vision for the apartment. A striking design element was introduced by painting the doors and millwork in Benjamin Moore’s Space Black, a spontaneous decision inspired by decorator David Hicks’s signature style, adapting a classic solution to a contemporary setting. Furniture and decor were also carefully curated to maintain the apartment's "Greco Deco" theme. In the living room, Geller designed a console table with a horse-leg motif, drawing inspiration from the Villa Kerylos on the French Riviera. This piece was paired with a 1973 super-graphic silk screen by Reis & Manwaring and a sculptural artwork from a friend, further cementing the eclectic blend of 1920s and 1970s influences. The overall design successfully connects disparate decades, creating a cohesive and stylish living space. #ApartmentRenovation #SmallSpaceDesign #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtDeco #GrecoDeco #ManhattanApartment #HomeTransformation

The article details the renovation of Unit 622, an apartment located within Montreal's historic Habitat 67 housing complex. Designed by the interior and industrial design firm Rainville Sangaré, the project transformed the space into a bright, open, and modern home. The renovation focused on simple lines, material integrity, and a minimalist aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Brutalist architectural style of Habitat 67 itself. The original complex, conceived by Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie in the 1960s, aimed to provide affordable urban living through 158 stacked, prefabricated concrete units. Unit 622 features a unique T-shaped layout formed by two prefab blocks. A key aspect of the renovation involved preserving the concrete junction where these two volumes meet, leaving it exposed as an homage to the apartment's history, complete with original construction markings. The design choices were also influenced by Habitat 67's location on the Saint-Laurence River, particularly the challenging winter conditions. Rainville Sangaré opted for a minimal material and color palette, incorporating raw finishes like steel and concrete throughout the space to enhance the natural light and reflect the building's robust character. The living room features built-in shelves framing the window, and custom-made ventilation grids were installed, reflecting the owners' interest in local craft and design. A notable artistic element is a commissioned piece by local artist James Kennedy, mounted on a sliding door that conceals the television. The apartment is entirely outfitted with Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting, a collection inspired by Habitat 67's rectangular prefab blocks. The kitchen, designed for efficiency, was crafted by local brand À Hauteur d’homme. The guest room is designed for versatility, featuring a hideaway bed that allows the space to function as an office, also lit by Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting. The main bedroom is predominantly oak, with a custom-designed bed and nightstand, and also features lighting by Sangaré. Streamlined oak panels are used for the wardrobe. In contrast to the minimalist living areas, the bathrooms introduce color and intriguing finishes, including a dichroic glass shower divider that changes color under different lighting conditions. Concrete tiles in the bathrooms further reference the building's Brutalist origins. The renovation successfully marries contemporary design with the historical and architectural integrity of Habitat 67, creating a sophisticated and functional living space. #Habitat67 #MontrealRenovation #ModernApartment #BrutalistArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #PrefabHomes #RainvilleSangaré

This article details the comprehensive gut renovation of a two-bedroom prewar apartment in Brooklyn Heights, transforming it from a dated and worn space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home. The homeowners, initially drawn to the apartment's convenient location rather than its condition, lived in the space for a year to understand its nuances before embarking on the renovation. They collaborated with Brooklyn-based Claire Hung of Claire Hung Design, whose vision resonated with their desire for a thoughtful transformation. Hung's design philosophy is significantly influenced by Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, both emphasizing beauty in simplicity. This approach naturally complemented the homeowners' existing collection of mid-century furniture pieces. A major challenge encountered during the renovation was the apartment's ceilings, which were heavy with structural beams throughout. To address this, Hung employed creative lighting solutions, such as installing junction boxes on the sides of beams and swagging fixtures to achieve desired illumination in areas like the hall and over the dining table. The design also incorporated custom millwork to redirect visual focus away from the intricate ceiling structure. To enhance the overall brightness of the north-facing apartment and highlight the new furnishings, all walls were painted in Benjamin Moore's Decorator's White, and new wheat-colored oak flooring was installed to add warmth. The bespoke millwork, including custom built-ins, was crafted from oak with a dark chocolate stain. Key structural changes included removing a wall to open up the galley kitchen, integrating it with the living space, and expanding its footprint with an elongated countertop and peninsula. The kitchen and both bathrooms, which were remnants of the building's 1980s co-op conversion, underwent complete overhauls. In the kitchen, previous dropped ceilings were removed to restore height, and alternative lighting, such as under-cabinet lights and wall sconces, was implemented. The custom millwork in the kitchen cleverly conceals appliances like the fridge, freezer drawers, and a dishwasher, along with a pull-out drawer for trash and recycling bins. Oak veneer was used for the cabinetry, specifically rift sawn to achieve vertical lines and avoid prominent wood grain patterns. The marble countertop was designed to drop before reaching the window, preserving the view, and the windowsill was finished with the same stone. Throughout the apartment, minimalist design principles were applied. For instance, door casing around the new red oak veneer doors was omitted to maximize space and create a clean, contemporary appearance, a choice Hung noted makes small spaces feel more expansive. Emtek hardware was selected for the doors. The primary bathroom was expanded by incorporating space from a former closet, and it features Breccia Roma marble on the floor and a continuous shelf from the shower to the vanity. The guest bathroom is distinguished by lime-washed walls in a custom color from Portola Paints. These design decisions collectively contributed to a serene and functional home that reflects the clean lines and understated elegance of Japanese and Scandinavian design. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentRenovation #BrooklynHeights #JapaneseDesign #ScandinavianDesign #CustomMillwork #PrewarApartment #ClaireHungDesign #HomeRenovation

After residing in their 1892 Minneapolis home for over two decades, designer Martha Dayton and her husband, Tom Nelson, considered moving to seek a change of scenery. However, they ultimately decided to renovate their existing 3,500-square-foot house, rediscovering its charm and falling in love with it anew. The initial impetus for the renovation was their small, dark, and cramped primary bedroom closet, which lacked adequate space and lighting. Given the limited expansion options within the house, the couple contemplated a move, but their attachment to the location and the house itself led them to pursue an extensive update instead. To address the closet issue, Martha enlisted architects Mark Larson and Anders Matney. Their design solution involved connecting the closet to the primary bedroom with pocket doors, installing an island with deep drawers, and replacing much of the perimeter cabinetry. The renovation also included the strategic relocation and reuse of existing built-ins, such as a vanity by St. Paul cabinetmaker Jon Frost, a piece that Martha uses daily and wished to preserve. A key challenge was integrating sufficient storage while retaining two original windows within the closet, which was creatively resolved by placing shelves in front of the windows. This initial closet overhaul became the catalyst for a series of broader renovations. Martha adopted a "well, if I'm going to do that, I might as well do this" approach, leading to a more comprehensive transformation of their home. Significant changes included a complete revamp of the laundry room and the replacement of an earlier family room addition. Both these spaces were redesigned to maximize natural light, and the former family room was converted into a casual dining area, creating a more seamless connection with the backyard living spaces. A deliberate effort was made to ensure that the updates blended seamlessly with the house's original character, making it difficult for first-time visitors to discern the renovations from the existing structure. Mark Larson noted that the house now gives the impression of always having been in its current state, rather than being a modified or added-on structure. Other updates focused on refreshing light fixtures, finishes, and furnishings, moving towards a more transitional and contemporary aesthetic while respecting the home's solid architectural foundation. One of the most impactful aspects of the renovation for Martha was the integration of art throughout the home. Approximately 80 percent of the art displayed is by Twin Cities artists, reflecting Martha's commitment to supporting local talent. She expressed pride in her team's efforts to champion local artists and sell their work, highlighting the abundance of artistic talent in the region. This focus on local art significantly contributed to her renewed affection for the house. Additional details of the home's refreshed spaces include the family room, painted in Benjamin Moore White Dove, featuring a sofa by A. Rudin, a rug from Tapis Decor, and a large photorealistic landscape painting by Teo Nguyen. The dining room saw minimal architectural changes, with corner built-ins by Maureen Rudd retained, but a new Yves flush mount light fixture from The Urban Electric Co. was installed. Martha emphasized that honoring the house's bones allows for changes in furniture, art, lighting, and wall coverings while maintaining a cohesive feel. The kitchen, previously redone by Dovetail Renovation, received a facelift, including painting the island blue, demonstrating how even small refreshes can rekindle appreciation for one's home. The living room features striped velvet midcentury modern chairs, a contemporary coffee table, and a diverse art collection ranging from David Rathman's sepia-toned painting to inexpensive works from local art events. A mirror from Made Goods in the refreshed stairway reflects the space, with styling by Paula Bjerketvedt enhancing the overall aesthetic. The primary closet's renovation, with its relocated vanity and shelves in front of windows, transformed it into an elegant and luxurious space. The sunroom combines a CB2 console table with photography by Alec Soth, illustrating Martha's approach to mixing price points in her designs. The home office received a fresh coat of paint, while the laundry room underwent a more significant "architecture of inches" transformation, including a new window and a tip-out hanging rack to maximize functionality and light. Beyond the home, Martha Dayton maintains a close friendship with Twin Cities artist Teo Nguyen, whose works are prominently featured in her home and office. She accompanied Nguyen on a trip to Vietnam in 2020, and their mutual admiration is evident. Nguyen credits Martha with encouraging him to showcase his art. His upcoming solo exhibition at Mia will feature monumental landscapes inspired by Vietnam War news photos, serving as a memorial to the countless Vietnamese lives lost during the conflict. The renovation project involved Martha Dayton Design for interior design, Rehkamp Larson Architects for architecture (Mark Larson, AIA, and Anders Matney, AIA), and Dovetail Renovation for construction. This extensive home renovation allowed Martha Dayton and Tom Nelson to fall in love with their house again, demonstrating that significant updates can reinvigorate a living space without sacrificing its inherent character. The project highlights the importance of thoughtful design, strategic space planning, and the integration of personal touches like local art to create a home that feels both refreshed and timeless. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalRedesign #MinneapolisHomes #ArtIntegration #SustainableDesign #ClosetRenovation #LaundryRoomUpgrade

The Brooklyn town house belonging to actor David Harbour and singer-actor Lily Allen is a vibrant and unconventional space, designed in collaboration with AD100 designer Billy Cotton and architect Ben Bischoff of MADE. The home, described as a "familial fantasyland of daring beauty and individual connoisseurial vision," stands in stark contrast to the prevailing trend of minimalist, neutral aesthetics. Its interiors feature a dynamic mix of chintz balloon shades, crystal chandeliers, pink silk, tiger-patterned textiles, and Mylar wallpaper, reflecting Allen's bold, eclectic, and fun personal taste, as noted by both Cotton and Harbour. The project began with the renovation of a late-19th-century Italianate brownstone in Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens neighborhood. Architect Ben Bischoff recalls the house's initial deteriorated state and the subsequent discovery of original moldings and doors beneath layers of past renovations. The couple sought to preserve the historical character while creating a casual, family-friendly environment, rejecting overt formality. Billy Cotton presented three design directions: traditional English, modern Brooklyn town house, and a layered Italian style, which the couple embraced due to the neighborhood's Italian-American history and Allen's desire for something "weird and wonderful." The layout of the house also deviates from typical conventions. The second level features a primary bath-cum-sitting room, adorned with wall-to-wall floral carpet, Zuber wallpaper, and sink stands fashioned from Louis XVI–style commodes. This eclectic design prioritizes the owners' preferences over traditional resale value concerns, as highlighted by Allen. The primary bedroom, uniquely situated as a windowless chamber between the main bath and dressing rooms, further exemplifies the personalized approach to the home's design. On the piano nobile, the kitchen and dining area are positioned at the front of the house, immediately accessible from the street, signifying its role as the home's central gathering space. Conversely, the living/garden room, featuring a double-sided sofa in emerald velvet, is located at the rear. The lower-level media room, devoid of original 19th-century details, adopts a crisp, contemporary interior with a glamorous, Madeleine Castaing-inspired aesthetic, showcasing matching tiger-patterned carpet and sofa against high-gloss, creamy-white walls. This design choice, according to Cotton, is a reflection of Allen’s captivating presence and her aversion to conventional living spaces. David Harbour, a self-proclaimed "suburban boy" accustomed to a more conventional aesthetic, expresses admiration for his wife's distinctive vision and willingness to take design risks. Despite the unconventional style, which their children playfully refer to as the "clown house," the home embodies a deeply personal and creatively executed living environment that perfectly suits the family's unique preferences. The collaboration between the homeowners, designer, and architect resulted in a unique and character-filled Brooklyn residence. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #BrooklynRealEstate #EclecticDecor #RenovationProject #ArchitecturalStyle #LuxuryInteriors

A couple returning to New York City after two decades in the New Jersey suburbs sought to renovate their 1,210-square-foot West Village apartment, engaging design and engineering studio Dunham Robinson for the project. The primary objectives were to enhance storage, refresh the aesthetic, and improve the apartment's overall circulation, transforming it into a welcoming family home where their adult sons could comfortably visit. The apartment, initially a 'blank slate,' allowed the couple to define their evolved taste. One of the most impactful transformations was the creation of a custom-built foyer piece designed to anchor the entryway and extend across the wall. Rachel Robinson, architect and founding partner, emphasized that this built-in was a key solution to a missing architectural and emotional component in the apartment's pre-renovation state, where the entrance led directly into the dining room. The new foyer piece, measuring two feet deep, seven feet long (or 12 feet including the door), and eight feet tall, was meticulously designed to establish an entry sequence and improve the apartment's flow without overwhelming the space. This design also incorporated much-needed storage in the form of a coat closet. Dunham Robinson focused on creating depth without making the space feel cramped, utilizing careful proportions, strategic placement, and integrated solutions. The design team employed color and texture to enhance this sense of depth, notably incorporating a pale-blue paint and leather details. To ensure continuity and a warm, cohesive ambiance, the foyer piece was constructed from natural, unstained oak, a material choice that harmonized with the new flooring. Textural accents, such as leather-wrapped cabinet handles, complemented the oak, and the built-in's extension across the wall and over the threshold contributed to a comfortable sense of enclosure. Beyond the foyer, the renovation included other clever design solutions throughout the apartment. The former galley kitchen was efficiently enlarged by extending new cabinetry around the corner into the dining room, visually opening the kitchen to the rest of the space and providing additional storage. Custom built-in pieces were also integrated below the windows in the bedrooms and living room, serving to conceal HVAC units while offering extra storage. In the guest bedroom, a Murphy bed from Resource Furniture was installed, surrounded by custom cabinetry by Black Square Builders, maximizing space and functionality. The renovation successfully transformed the apartment into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home that not only met the couple’s immediate needs but also created a welcoming environment for hosting friends and family, reflecting their current lifestyle and taste. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FoyerDesign #SpaceOptimization #ApartmentRenovation #DunhamRobinson #NewYorkCityLiving #ModernHome

The article details a design project undertaken by Emma Beryl Kemper of Emma Beryl, a New York City design studio, to transform a two-bedroom Greenpoint duplex. The condo, originally created from a storefront in a vintage row house approximately a decade prior, was characterized by a cold, "cookie-cutter" aesthetic and lacked personalized touches for the young family residing there. The primary objective of the renovation was to infuse warmth and character into the space, making it feel more like a home, and to significantly enhance its functionality. One of the initial challenges involved the original kitchen, which featured only a single wall of cabinetry and an island. Beryl reconfigured this area, adding a wine bar with a glass cabinet to create a smoother transition between the functional kitchen space and the open living room, integrating it more effectively with the adjacent dining area. Beyond the kitchen, the project focused on maximizing storage throughout the duplex. This included reconfiguring the upstairs bathroom and adding a shower to the downstairs powder room, thereby converting it into a full bath. Custom built-ins were designed for an awkward downstairs room, which served the dual purpose of concealing plumbing pipes and creating a cozy nursery for the family. To achieve the desired warmth and character, the design incorporated vintage pieces, hand-painted tiles, and a selection of specific furnishings and materials. Manhattan-based Jan Renovations carried out all the new construction work, including custom millwork. In the open living room, a vintage rug from ABC Carpet, a grasscloth-covered media unit, and a new sofa from Restoration Hardware were combined with the clients' existing coffee table and chairs. The floor-to-ceiling storefront windows, which made the living room feel exposed, were addressed by adding a built-in window seat with integrated storage, creating a barrier and softening the space with curtains. A custom-built narrow bookcase in the corner was installed to hide wires. The dining area features a built-in banquette that conceals a steel rail for the downstairs staircase, also providing additional storage. Rejuvenation chairs accompany a wooden farmhouse-style table, complemented by a West Elm chandelier. A wooden desk from Restoration Hardware is positioned alongside the dining area. The kitchen was enlarged while maintaining its general location, featuring a contrast of white upper cabinets and open shelves with dark navy lower cabinetry. Carrara marble countertops and handmade tiles on the backsplash were significant upgrades. The master bedroom, being small, was designed to maximize openness, with custom floating nightstands and walls painted in a moody dark hue. Lutron shades were installed for privacy on the frosted storefront windows. The door to the upstairs bathroom was relocated to the front entry, necessitating a complete change in the room's footprint. The bathroom's color scheme aligns with the kitchen and master bedroom, incorporating patterned floor tiles from Tabarka Studio and custom-made wall tiles to match the blue in the flooring. A Restoration Hardware vanity and Cedar & Moss sconce completed the new bathroom. On the lower level, a custom-built angled closet provides linen and coat storage. The downstairs nursery features a bi-level window seat, a long wall of storage, and a floor-to-ceiling closet, all custom-built from lacquered wood to conceal mechanicals while allowing access. Distinctive wallpaper from Hygge & West and Dwell Studio baby furnishings enhance the space. A shower was added to the downstairs bathroom by utilizing space beneath the staircase, with a sink from Restoration Hardware and floor tile from Wayfair. The article also mentions the availability of before-and-after photos to illustrate the transformation. #InteriorDesign #Greenpoint #CondoRenovation #EmmaBeryl #CustomMillwork #BrooklynDesign #HomeTransformation

Homepolish designer Tali Roth offers practical advice for renters looking to personalize their temporary living spaces, emphasizing that a rental unit's potential should not be wasted due to its temporary nature. She asserts that individuals often reside in rentals longer than anticipated, making it essential to create a comfortable and personalized environment rather than living in a state of limbo. Roth's own Chelsea loft serves as a prime example of how to infuse personal style into a rental without undertaking extensive, permanent renovations that could jeopardize a security deposit. Roth suggests focusing on easily modifiable elements within a rental. Lighting and window treatments are identified as key areas for impactful changes. For instance, an existing, generic light fixture can be replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing one. In her dining room, Roth replaced an IKEA light with a Synapse chandelier by Apparatus Studio, which helped to make the space feel cozier by lowering the ceiling's visual height. For those hesitant to alter existing wiring, sculptural wall lamps that plug into outlets and can be mounted high are presented as a viable alternative. Installing blinds and full-length curtains is also recommended to add warmth, texture, and privacy, with Roth opting for gray Belgian flax linen curtains to complement her home's modern color scheme. The article highlights Roth's innovative approach to customizing furniture, particularly her collaboration with Semihandmade to transform standard IKEA cabinet systems. Through this, she added custom taupe doors, a counter, and brass hardware to her units, demonstrating how affordable, modular furniture can be elevated to appear bespoke. One of the most significant transformations in Roth's loft was the application of faux concrete to a large wall by i faux. This technique was used to address the challenge of vast, white rental walls, adding significant texture and depth to prevent the space from feeling like a stark, empty box. Roth's design philosophy embraces geometric patterns and chunky forms, which she refers to as a "Flintstones aesthetic," influenced by her appreciation for modernism. This theme is consistently applied throughout her home, evident in sculptural vases, Hubble Wall Sconces by Pietro Russo for Baxter in the living room, and terrazzo wallpaper in the bathroom. While Roth chose traditional wallpaper, the article also suggests removable wallpaper options for renters seeking less commitment. The process of designing each rental space is also presented as a learning opportunity, allowing individuals to refine their tastes and understand what works best for their lifestyle, including considerations for living with young children. Roth shares a personal insight regarding her velvet couch, noting that its susceptibility to watermarks might lead her to choose a different material in future rentals, at least until her son is older. Ultimately, Roth emphasizes that customizing a rental is a common practice, particularly in cities like New York, where landlords generally expect tenants to personalize their living spaces. She reassures renters that most lease agreements simply require the unit to be returned to its original state, detailing her plans to reverse her changes, such as reinstalling the original light fixture, deconstructing the faux concrete, removing wallpaper, and repainting walls white, before moving out. #RentalDesign #LoftLiving #InteriorDecor #HomepolishDesigner #TaliRoth #DIYDecor #ApartmentRenovation #ModernAesthetic #IKEAHacks

Jojo Barr, founder of House Nine, details the renovation process of the living room in her new rural home, a project undertaken after she moved from London to the countryside. The living room serves as a sanctuary and the first room visitors encounter, located directly off the entrance hall. Despite being the darkest area of the house, receiving morning sunlight only until 10 am, its view of the valley makes it an ideal spot for relaxation. Barr anticipates that this room will eventually become a 'snug' once the ground floor is converted into an open-plan living space. The living room, a 5m x 5m square room with a working fireplace, required only cosmetic upgrades as its structure was sound. A key challenge was integrating the television. Barr typically advises against wall-mounting TVs but found it unavoidable due to the room's layout, ultimately placing a Samsung Frame TV above the mantle. She highlights the aesthetic appeal of the Frame TV, which displays artwork when not in use, and cautions about ensuring adequate heat protection in the chimney breast to prevent damage to electronics. Lighting presented another compromise for Barr, who prefers not to use downlights unless task-specific. However, the low ceiling necessitated their use, preventing the installation of a central pendant. Curtains were a significant point of contention; Barr strongly advocates for floor-length curtains, or those that 'kiss' the floor, contrary to the short curtains found in the room initially. She dispels the notion that short curtains are designed to facilitate heat circulation from radiators, arguing that long, lined, and interlined curtains are more effective at retaining warmth. For tricky window designs where floor-length curtains are impractical, Roman blinds, either sheer for privacy or blackout for total darkness, are recommended alternatives, with French café curtains being the sole exception to her rule against short coverings. The design objective for the living room was to create an effortless, comfortable, and warm environment suitable for both family relaxation and entertaining. Barr replaced the existing beige carpet with an engineered oak, white-washed floor from Chaunceys Timber, a bold choice that brightened the room. A woven jute rug was added to enhance comfort. The old bookcase cabinet and fireplace were retained and repainted. The room's character was further developed through the addition of tongue and groove to the ceiling and half-height wall panelling. The chosen color scheme is neutral and warm, complemented by earthy textures and autumnal accents, low-level lighting, vintage pieces, and unique finds. Comfort is prioritized, with a House Nine-designed sofa and ottoman featuring plump cushions to invite relaxation. Barr emphasizes a relaxed approach to her interiors, aiming for guests to feel at ease.

Lauren Lemkowitz, an event planner and interior designer, founded Rental Re/Do to help renters transform their anonymous apartments into chic and homey spaces. Her venture was inspired by her own experiences living in various New York City apartments with often subpar finishes, hardware, and lighting. Lemkowitz consistently found ways to enhance these rental properties, leading her to create a business that empowers other renters to do the same. Rental Re/Do's mission is to offer products and guidance that enable renters to upgrade their living environments and cultivate a sense of belonging. The company provides a range of items, including lighting fixtures, kitchen and cabinet hardware, planters, and wall plates, all designed to fundamentally improve the aesthetics and functionality of a rental apartment. Lauren emphasizes making each property feel custom, moving beyond the generic rental aesthetic. Lemkowitz offers several practical tips for renters looking to personalize their spaces. She advises against trying to tackle all changes at once, suggesting that individuals focus first on the areas they use most frequently and the high-touch objects within their homes. Lighting is highlighted as a crucial element for setting the mood; installing dimmers and using soft white light bulbs are recommended to create a calm atmosphere, as opposed to the harshness of daylight or bright white bulbs often found in rentals. She also recommends using rugs with rug pads to define different zones in a room, even small ones, and to protect flooring. Clutter management is another key piece of advice. Lemkowitz advocates for a conscious approach to purchasing items for the home, which not only helps in maintaining organization but also promotes sustainability and saves money. For renters, a critical tip is to meticulously save all original fixtures and hardware that are replaced during a makeover. This allows for easy reinstallation when moving out, preventing potential issues with landlords. What sets Rental Re/Do apart, according to Lemkowitz, is the curated selection of affordable products achieved through exclusive partnerships with international designers. Her inspiration largely comes from housewares that blend simple, beautiful, and utilitarian design, drawing particularly from Dutch and Nordic brands. Her goals for the company include expanding the product offerings on the website and launching a marketplace to feature homewares specifically tailored for both renters and homeowners. A typical day for Lauren involves managing all aspects of her business, from logistics and PR to marketing and customer relationship building. She views starting Rental Re/Do as a career highlight, as it integrates her diverse professional experiences and entrepreneurial drive. Her advice for aspiring business owners is to dream big but also to acknowledge that success takes time. She encourages celebrating small victories and appreciating the journey, rather than solely focusing on rapid progress. Lauren has a deep appreciation for the community atmosphere of Jersey City, its proximity to NYC, and enjoys local spots like Prato, Plntd, Low Fidelity, and Riverside Park. #HomeDesign #RentalMakeover #InteriorDesign #JerseyCity #RentalReDo #HomeImprovement #DecorTips #Entrepreneurship

Kristina and her husband, Mark, acquired a 92-square-meter apartment in Brooklyn Heights, New York, within an Art Deco building designed by architect Emery Roth. This building, formerly the St. George Tower hotel, holds historical significance, having hosted movie sets and presidential guests, and once featured the largest indoor saltwater pool in the United States before its conversion to a co-op in the late 1970s. The couple, with their then-6-month-old daughter, purchased the apartment and lived in it for a year to understand its existing flaws and their desired improvements. During this initial period, they identified several issues: deteriorating parquet flooring, squeaky kitchen cabinets, a dishwasher that couldn't fully open due to a radiator obstruction, a doorless closet in their daughter’s room leading to items falling out, and bathrooms with original pastel pink tiles that were difficult to keep clean. These challenges prompted them to seek professional help to transform the space into a comfortable and functional home. They enlisted interior designer Claire Hung, founder of Claire Hung Design, whom they connected with through a neighborhood group focused on Brooklyn renovations. Hung’s background in Scandinavian design and Japanese influences resonated with the couple’s vision, leading to a synergistic partnership. Hung's renovation focused on maximizing the apartment's limited 92-square-meter space through integrated built-ins and a redesigned spatial layout. She addressed the visual impact of structural beams by incorporating them into the interior design, contributing to a lighter and more open atmosphere. The galley kitchen was opened up to the living area, expanding its footprint. This was achieved by elongating the countertop into an eat-in peninsula and connecting storage to the kitchen through seamless millwork, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. Initially, the apartment, with its northern exposure, felt cold due to sterile white paint. Hung introduced warmth and sophistication by blending contemporary styles with a touch of modernism. The original floors were replaced with a honey/wheat-colored wood, while natural oak was used for doors and trim. Dark chocolate oak cabinetry was installed in the living space, complemented by Italian marble—Macchia Vecchia for the backsplash and Paonazzo for the countertop—adding a luxurious touch. The main suite also underwent significant changes. The closet was expanded, and the compact, Japanese-inspired primary bathroom was transformed with a slab of Breccia Romana for the floor and a continuous shelf extending from the shower to the vanity. For their daughter's room, Hung opted for vibrant, colorful linens that harmonized with the existing midcentury furniture, fulfilling the parents' desire for a cozy, sophisticated, and stylish environment suitable for a child to grow up in. The renovation successfully converted the relatively small apartment into a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing space, maximizing every square meter. #ApartmentRenovation #BrooklynDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #InteriorDesign #EarthyInteriors #ScandinavianInfluence #JapaneseDesign #ArtDecoBuilding #FunctionalDesign

Architect Luki Anderson of Studio Officina undertook a significant renovation of a 1905 Clinton Hill duplex in Brooklyn. The clients, a couple with two children, sought a functional overhaul and a vibrant color palette, moving away from the home's original beige aesthetic. Anderson's initial assessment revealed the owners' existing affinity for color through their textiles and art, with the kitchen cabinets even being self-painted with colorful knobs as an early attempt to personalize the space. The primary goals for the renovation included expanding the kitchen and adding a third room to the lower garden level. The existing kitchen was found to be worn out and functionally inefficient. After exploring various layouts, Anderson devised a U-shaped kitchen configuration to maximize counter space and cabinetry, while keeping the sink and stove in their original positions. An unnecessary hallway behind the kitchen was re-purposed to expand the space, accommodating pantry cabinets, a refrigerator, and a coffee bar niche on the opposite wall. This design strategy ensured that the space felt open and avoided overwhelming the area with excessive cabinetry, creating a dedicated coffee or children's lunch preparation zone away from the main cooking area. The lower level of the duplex, which initially comprised two bedrooms and two bathrooms, was also part of the renovation. The previous layout was deemed inefficient, with an imbalance of space. Anderson reconfigured the bathrooms and enhanced the primary suite by adding a proper closet, replacing a wall of wardrobes. A key addition to this level was a flexible room designed to serve as both an office and a guest bedroom. This multi-functional space was equipped with custom-built storage, an integrated desk, and a Murphy bed to optimize its utility. Throughout the renovation, a strong emphasis was placed on integrating color, specifically the clients' preferred blue and green hues, alongside vibrant oranges and reds. This decision was influenced by Anderson's previous work, known for its colorful designs, despite her own home being predominantly white. The design incorporated colorful elements in various areas, such as orange-red triangle tiles and a floral wallpaper in the foyer, brightly painted Farrow & Ball's Pea Flower Tea kitchen cabinets, and a striking red Kappa tile backsplash in the kitchen niche. The children's bathroom features lively Rio Belize tile and Arctic White subway tile with custom white oak vanity and colorful zinc alloy pulls, while the kids' bedroom showcases a two-tone wall with Benjamin Moore's Baltimore Sky and Superwhite. In the primary suite, an almost black hue, Farrow & Ball's Railings, was combined with Benjamin Moore's Superwhite, and the bathroom boasts white and green wall tiles, alongside blue Pixel floor tiles. Anderson highlighted the importance of balancing these bold color choices with neutral tones at eye level to prevent the spaces from feeling overwhelming. This approach aimed to deliver a home that exuded joy and reflected the clients' desire for a colorful, personalized living environment. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation #DuplexApartment #Brooklyn #BeforeAndAfter #StudioOfficina

This article highlights the transformative power of strategic interior design through the case study of a Brooklyn apartment. Initially, the apartment suffered from a bland aesthetic, characterized by a generic kitchen, plain white walls, and an uninspired entrance. The renovation aimed to infuse character and sophistication into the space, demonstrating how thoughtful design choices can significantly impact the living environment. The kitchen, which originally felt dark and small due to its wooden cabinets, underwent a significant overhaul. Designers opted to replace the dark upper cabinets with sleek white ones. This change not only brightened the room but also created an illusion of greater height and offered enhanced storage capacity, as the new cabinets were taller than their predecessors. The choice of lighter materials extended to the countertops, where a low-maintenance quartz was installed, replacing a darker alternative. A Carrara marble backsplash was incorporated to unify the design, adding a touch of elegance. A notable aspect of the kitchen renovation was the ability to retain the existing stainless steel appliances, which, against the backdrop of the new, lighter finishes, gained a renewed visual prominence. Beyond the aesthetic upgrades, the kitchen's lighting scheme was completely rethought. Recessed lighting was introduced to provide overall illumination, complemented by two oversized pendant lights positioned above the island, serving as both functional and decorative elements. Under-cabinet lighting was also installed, effectively transforming the space from a dim and uninteresting area into a luminous and sophisticated one. The renovation efforts were not confined to the kitchen; the hallway also received considerable attention. Prior to the makeover, the hallway was described as lacking personality, featuring plain walls and doors. To create a more intimate and welcoming atmosphere, designers strategically lowered the ceiling by a couple of feet. This adjustment, combined with the addition of pendant lighting, imparted a cozier and warmer feel to the corridor. Further details were added to the doors through the application of trim and a coat of dark gray paint, which enriched their appearance. An accent wall was introduced, featuring a wallpaper with a subtle yet intricate design, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. To complete the transformation, a bold runner was laid on the floor, injecting a vibrant pop of color and defining the pathway. #ApartmentMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KitchenDesign #HallwayDecor #BrooklynApartment #SweetenDesign #ModernHome #HomeDecor

The Whistling Well, led by founder and principal designer Milena Bica-Shibata, undertook the task of transforming an expansive yet outdated Manhattan apartment into a modern sanctuary for a family of three. The design focused on creating a home that supports the family's lifestyle, which includes frequent hosting and communal meals. The 1,800-square-foot apartment now features three bedrooms and baths, alongside generous communal areas such as a lounge and living room, all designed to foster tranquility and connection. Bica-Shibata emphasized the careful selection of natural materials to achieve harmony and a variety of textures and temperatures throughout the space. The chosen materials include stained oak, ash, leathered quartzite, linen, leather, wool, brass, artisan ceramic tile, marbles, and warm tinted glass. This diverse material palette is complemented by a balanced scheme of cool and warm colors, creating a dynamic yet serene aesthetic. The design incorporates clean lines and rounded edges, contributing to a soft and inviting atmosphere. A custom wood ceiling trim in the living room serves to balance the space and draw the eye upwards, adding architectural interest. This wooden element extends into the kitchen and a custom-designed bar area. The bar was specifically conceived as a continuation of the perimeter millwork, seamlessly transitioning into the eat-in area, which features an operable partition. The design team meticulously studied proportions and materials to ensure a cohesive and visually appealing composition for these integrated spaces. The kitchen itself is a multifunctional tranquil zone, complete with a breakfast nook and the aforementioned bar, catering to the family's culinary and social needs. The inclusion of playful wallcoverings adds a vibrant touch to various areas, such as the children's room where a bold pink and orange wallpaper creates a focal point behind a daybed, and the bathrooms, which also feature lively patterns. Subtle neutrals anchor the main bedroom, promoting a sense of calm and restfulness. Layers of natural materials and earthy hues are consistently applied throughout the home, imbuing it with an overarching sense of peacefulness. This careful curation of design elements and materials successfully transforms the apartment into an oasis, offering a serene escape for the family and their guests amidst the bustling environment of Manhattan. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #NaturalMaterials #CustomMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Wallcoverings #ModernHome #TranquilSpaces