From Timothy Leary to Melkite seminarians, my house has a storied history of occupants

Frank Lloyd Wright, an iconic American architect, designer, writer, and educator, is celebrated for his profound influence on architectural and philosophical discourse. His extensive body of work includes approximately 1,000 structures, with about 400 realized projects, epitomizing his philosophy, as notably seen in Fallingwater, designed in the 1930s. Wright's concept of 'Simplicity' is crucial to understanding his approach, which he described as a "spiritual thing to comprehend." This enduring legacy means many of his works are open to the public, and his private residential designs continue to be inhabited. The Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy has recently highlighted seven of his properties that are currently available for sale, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of architectural history. Among these is the Norman Lykes House in Phoenix, Arizona, designed in 1959. This unique circular home, featuring rounded windows, custom built-in furniture, and a crescent-shaped pool, is perched on a mountain, offering a 180-degree view of Phoenix. The property is currently available for co-ownership. The Fawcett House, located in Los Banos, California, was designed in 1955 and sits on 76 acres. It underwent a significant restoration in 2012, led by architect Arthur Dyson with involvement from Lynn Fawcett Whiting (the owner's daughter), Eric Lloyd Wright (Frank Lloyd Wright's grandson), and Cornelia Brierley (Wright's interior designer for the home). A notable feature is a shallow, circular flower planter, a design element typical of Wright's earlier works. The Eppstein House in Galesburg, Michigan, designed in 1948, is part of "The Acres" community. This mid-century Usonian-style residence, constructed with distinctive textile blocks, has been fully renovated and is available for both sale and overnight accommodation. Its kitchen features a high ceiling and skylight, and the house retains original Frank Lloyd Wright furniture alongside other period pieces. Marika Broere and Tony Hillebrandt were instrumental in its restoration. The Winn House in Kalamazoo, Michigan, completed in 1950, is the last Wright-designed house built in its neighborhood. It embodies Wright's signature open floor plan, expansive windows, and custom-built furniture, with a curving facade that harmonizes with the site's topography. It includes three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a patio, a porch, a fireplace, and a glazed balcony. The Hickox House in Kankakee, Illinois, dating back to 1900, is an early example of Wright's Prairie-style architecture. It features flared roof ridges inspired by Japanese architecture and geometric patterns. The interior boasts a spacious, well-lit entryway with built-in seating and leaded glass bands across the bay windows, blending the indoors with the natural environment. The design integrates elements from Wright's articles "A Home in a Prairie Town" and "A Small House with Lots of Room in It," with white plaster exterior walls and stained woodwork, and sand-finished interior walls. The Richard Lloyd Jones House in Tulsa, Oklahoma, designed in 1929, is distinct from other Wright designs. It features alternating columns of block and glazing that create a unique interplay of light within the interior. The exterior is marked by several glazed, two-story elements. The house has five bedrooms and five bathrooms. After Jones's death, architect M. Murray McCune updated the residence in 1965, and it remains one of only three Wright structures in Oklahoma. Finally, the Site of Oboler Estate in Malibu, California, originally featured the Arch Oboler Complex, which was destroyed in the 2018 Woolsey Fire. This 100-acre property now holds the remnants of structures built from Wright's designs, including the "Eaglefeather Compound," a primary living space converted from an initial gatehouse, stable, and carport, and named after an unconstructed 1940 design for the Obolers. #FrankLloydWright #ArchitecturalHistory #UsonianHomes #PrairieStyle #MidCenturyArchitecture #HistoricProperties #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalPreservation #IconicHomes

The author shares a detailed reveal of her historic home's living room, emphasizing its significance as the heart of her family's home. The open-plan living room and kitchen area was a focal point for their design energy, aiming to create a space that reflects the family's unique identity. The design concept for the living room was a blend of 'Parisian Apartment meets a bit of irreverence,' seeking to achieve an elegant yet fun and youthful atmosphere. This involved combining chic, elevated aesthetics with pops of color and playful elements. The author expresses particular fondness for the juxtaposition of the luxurious Schumacher fabric used for drapery and pillows with vibrant neons and various colorful accents throughout the room. A central feature of the living room is the custom Taylor Burke sofa and chair. The author highlights the sofa's performance velvet fabric, which allows for a light color choice despite having young children, as it cleans easily and has already withstood spills. The chair, in a distinctive acid green (chartreuse-like) hue, is also a favorite, although the author humorously notes the challenge of having a swivel chair with two small children. The overall layout of the room is designed to comfortably accommodate a growing family, with ample space for everyone to gather without feeling cramped. Practical additions like two ottomans hidden under the main console provide extra seating when needed, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to both style and functionality. Technology is seamlessly integrated into the design with a Samsung Frame TV, which the author mentions often goes unnoticed as a television, blending in as a piece of art. The article also mentions a Freddie Mercury photograph, acquired from a rock gallery, as a cherished item. The author collaborated with Prudence Home & Design for the overall design and styling of the room. Key design elements and furnishings are attributed to various sources, including Taylor Burke Home for custom furniture, LM Custom Carpets for the rug, and Woodbridge Furniture for the console table. Decorative details such as the Schumacher Lotus Garden fabric for drapery and pillows, art from Sonder Living, a custom neon sign by Let There Be Neon, and vintage items from Fairfield County Antiques further contribute to the room's unique character. The author encourages reader engagement by asking for comments and feedback on the room's design. #LivingRoomReveal #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #FamilyLiving #CustomFurniture #DesignInspiration #PerformanceFabric

This article details the transformation of a Victorian villa in South London, a property that has been in the current owner's family for generations. The project, led by designer Scarlett Jones of Sims Hilditch, aimed to respect the home's history and family memories while updating it for a young, modern family. The design approach was deeply personal and aligned with Sims Hilditch's journey toward B Corp certification, emphasizing sustainability and longevity by reusing treasured antiques and investing in durable designs. The renovation began with the hallway, where bold wallpaper was replaced with soft white walls and woodwork in Oval Room Blue, a color that recurs throughout the house. New oak herringbone flooring was installed to add warmth and character, complemented by a vibrant stair runner. Significant layout changes were made to suit modern family life, notably opening up the kitchen and snug to create an informal dining area. The kitchen features Shaker-style cabinetry in warm gray with a rhubarb-pink island, which serves as a vibrant focal point. Existing joinery in the dining area was refreshed with dark teal paint, a new wallpapered back, and brass bamboo handles, paired with glossy red faux bamboo chairs and an oak bobbin table. The living room, spanning the depth of the house, was designed to celebrate exquisite de Gournay wallpaper. A contemporary checkered rug set the tone for a fresh scheme. Existing George Smith furniture was reupholstered in striped and checkered fabrics, and a bespoke L-shaped sofa with hidden toy storage was introduced to accommodate both daily family life and formal entertaining. Upstairs, the color palette shifts to gentler blues and buttery yellows in the principal bedroom. Fabrics are central to the design, including an oversized headboard in embroidered Colefax and Fowler linen and curtains with broad bands of cream and blue linen. The dressing area features fabric-paneled doors, adding visual interest to the cabinetry. The main bathroom is designed for indulgence, with a sunshine-yellow slipper bath, an elegant fluted vanity, a rug, and upholstered pieces that provide a comfortable, sitting-room feel. Beyond the main living spaces, personality continues to infuse the home. The cloakroom features Bengal tiger wallpaper, and the study, with its reworked original joinery, showcases a playful lion-print lining and a family antique desk. The children's rooms under the eaves incorporate fabric-covered shutters, providing both a practical blackout solution and a cheerful burst of color and pattern. Scarlett Jones emphasizes that the project's success lies in its layered design, ensuring that each room contributes to the family’s ongoing story, honoring the past while embracing the present. #LondonVilla #FamilyHome #HistoricRenovation #InteriorDesign #SimsHilditch #SustainableDesign #VictorianArchitecture #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign

This article explores twenty architectural styles that are no longer commonly built today, examining how each style reflects historical, cultural, and societal values in American identity. Each architectural form, from the Octagon House to the Greek Revival, encapsulates specific periods of American history, revealing evolving aspirations, technological advancements, immigration patterns, and changing family dynamics. Octagon Houses, for instance, highlight a mid-19th-century fascination with health and scientific rationalism. Promoted by Orson Squire Fowler, these eight-sided structures were marketed as scientifically superior for their airflow and natural light, reflecting a cultural desire for solutions to urban disease. Their eventual decline illustrates how architectural innovations, despite initial optimism, can be superseded by practical limitations or shifting preferences. Queen Anne Style homes, popular during America's industrial transformation, represent a period of architectural anxiety. Their intricate designs, featuring turrets and varied textures, were an attempt to invoke a romanticized past amidst the rise of mass production and the decline of traditional craftsmanship. These homes serve as a physical record of the nation's struggle to reconcile progress with a longing for historical continuity. The American Foursquare style, emerging as a response to Victorian excess, embodies American pragmatism and efficiency. Its cubic shape maximized interior space with minimal exterior walls, catering to middle-class families seeking durable, cost-effective homes. This shift from ornamentation to clean lines mirrored a broader cultural movement towards efficiency, influencing later industrial and technological advancements. Craftsman homes emerged as a direct counter-movement against industrialization, emphasizing authenticity and handmade details. Figures like Gustav Stickley championed this style as an alternative to mass-produced goods, promoting a vision of American life centered on craftsmanship. This movement parallels contemporary trends that seek refuge from technology in more traditional or artisanal practices. Shotgun Houses reveal the often-overlooked influence of African architectural traditions on American building. Their narrow, linear design, common in Southern cities like New Orleans, originated from West African and Haitian spatial concepts. These homes demonstrate how cultural memory and practical necessity, particularly among enslaved populations, shaped building traditions in America. Tudor Revival architecture showcases America's complex relationship with authenticity, allowing homeowners to create an instant sense of European heritage through decorative half-timbering. This style's popularity during the Roaring Twenties reflected a desire among the newly affluent to project old-money stability, often in designs that were more theatrical than historically accurate. Dutch Colonial Revival homes illustrate how history is selectively interpreted to create comfortable narratives. The distinctive gambrel roof linked homeowners to early European settlers, becoming popular during periods of high immigration as an architectural expression of nativism, emphasizing certain ancestral connections while other immigrant groups faced restrictions. Lustron Homes, prefabricated all-metal houses from the post-war era, epitomized American technological optimism. These industrial products, intended to solve the housing crisis, ultimately failed due to economic and consumer preference factors, serving as a cautionary tale of innovative solutions clashing with market realities. Atomic Ranch homes emerged during the Cold War, reflecting shifts in family structure and optimism. Their open floor plans and indoor-outdoor connections aligned with women entering the workforce and the growth of suburbs. Large picture windows transformed living spaces into displays of middle-class prosperity. Brutalist Homes, characterized by raw concrete forms, were ideological statements against dishonesty and an embrace of authenticity, aligning with Cold War tensions. This style, like punk rock, rejected conventional aesthetics, its decline reflecting shifting attitudes towards institutional authority. Neoclassical architecture enforced power structures through imposing columns and symmetrical proportions, referencing ancient Greek and Roman ideals of democracy and authority. This style's use in governmental and elite buildings signifies permanence and legitimacy, functioning as an architectural symbol of power. Cape Cod homes, shaped by the harsh New England climate, exemplify practical design and climate adaptation. Their steeply pitched roofs and modest scale offered dignity and affordability during economic hardship, reflecting a cultural search for security in traditional forms. Country French homes demonstrate America's selective adoption of European aesthetics. These designs, influenced more by Hollywood than authentic French farmhouses, illustrate how diluted cultural elements are consumed, often without historical context, prioritizing aesthetics over functional origins. Colonial architecture, born out of survival necessities for early settlers, prioritized practicality over style. Features like central chimneys and evenly spaced windows were functional responses to harsh environmental conditions. Modern replicas often miss the pragmatic origins of these designs. Victorian homes showcase the impact of the Industrial Revolution, with elaborate wooden details made possible by mass production. Their complex, compartmentalized floor plans reveal the social norms and gender roles of the era, marking a shift towards consumer-driven architectural aesthetics. Tudor-style homes functioned as social signaling, with half-timbering and steep rooflines conveying old-money stability. Their popularity during uncertain economic times reveals how architectural choices can serve as aspirational identity markers, often prioritizing perceived heritage over structural authenticity. Cottage-style homes provided escapism during difficult periods like the Great Depression. Their whimsical features created a fairy-tale aesthetic, demonstrating how architecture fulfills emotional needs by allowing inhabitants to live within a narrative, offering comfort rather than pure function. Mediterranean-style homes represent America's appropriation of aesthetics. Red-tiled roofs and stucco walls, popularized after wartime exposure and Hollywood's romantic portrayals, illustrate architectural tourism. These styles spread beyond climatically suitable regions, prioritizing appearance over functionality. Italianate architecture served as a status symbol for the newly wealthy, mimicking European sophistication through decorative brackets and tall windows. This style reflects America's complex relationship with European culture, caught between celebrating independence and craving validation. These were often mass-produced versions, lacking the organic development of true Italian villas. Greek Revival architecture, with its imposing columns, was a deliberate political statement aimed at establishing the young nation's legitimacy. By linking American buildings to ancient Greek democracy, the style conveyed deep cultural roots, addressing national identity crises after events like the War of 1812. Even modest homes adopted these elements, highlighting a collective need for stability and respect. #ArchitecturalHistory #AmericanIdentity #HouseStyles #CulturalSignificance #DesignEvolution #UrbanDevelopment #SocialHistory #BuildingTrends #HistoricHomes

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

The "Inside Her Home" series offers a glimpse into the residences of everyday women, detailing their renting or homeownership experiences. This installment features Lauren Li, a 45-year-old interior designer residing in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne. She lives with her husband and three children in a three-bedroom, two-storey home with an additional granny flat, which they rent for $3,910 per month. Lauren describes her home as a mid-century modern dwelling, built in 1961, retaining much of its original architecture. She emphasizes a deep connection to the house, feeling it "chose her" and that she and her family are deeply content living there. Lauren’s home is situated approximately 10km north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. She highlights the fair price for the rental and expresses a strong belief that renters invest significant care and effort into making their houses feel like home. She and her family have occupied the property for three years, and her appreciation for the space has only grown. The house holds historical significance, having been the former residence of Victoria's first female Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Rosemary Balmford, who lived there since 1963. Lauren attributes the home's positive atmosphere and abundant built-in bookshelves to its previous owner, noting Balmford’s pioneering role as the first female lecturer in the University of Melbourne’s law faculty. The layout of the home is particularly appealing to Lauren, featuring a spacious living room with a fireplace, which provides ample room for the family while maintaining a sense of togetherness. The property also offers lovely views of trees, a beneficial feature for Lauren and her husband, who both work from home. The kitchen retains its original 1960s charm, which Lauren appreciates. The house includes an elevated deck that has been the setting for numerous family gatherings and summer dinners, contributing to its cherished feel. Their 12-year-old daughter enjoys a room with an impressive view of the Yarra River, while her 11-year-old sister and three-year-old brother share the other bedroom. Lauren explains that their move to this particular house was almost serendipitous. When their previous apartment was put up for sale, they needed to find new accommodation swiftly. A friend connected them with a real estate agent, and upon seeing the Ivanhoe East property, Lauren immediately felt a strong desire to live there. Her attachment to the house is so profound that she declares she is "never going to leave," underscoring her long-term commitment to the home. The article concludes with an invitation for other individuals to submit their homes for inclusion in the "Inside Her Home" series, encouraging [email protected] to be contacted for submissions. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #RentalProperty #MelbourneHomes #FamilyLiving #RealLifeStories #HomeTour

Lark Interiors, in collaboration with architectural lead Alison Ames, undertook the significant task of transforming a vast 17,200-square-foot new build in Westlake, Texas, into a comfortable and inviting family residence. The primary challenge was to prevent the expansive home, which includes seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms, from feeling commercial or impersonal. To achieve this, the design focused on creating a sense of coziness and intimacy despite the large scale. One of the key strategies employed was to minimize hallways, allowing rooms to flow directly into one another. This architectural choice encourages a feeling of connectedness and warmth, making movement through the house a more integrated experience. Furthermore, the bedrooms were intentionally located in close proximity to each other, a thoughtful detail aimed at enhancing family comfort, particularly for children at night. Addressing the living room's impressive 34-foot-high ceilings, the designers implemented various techniques to reduce any cavernous effect. They introduced wooden beams in the living room and primary bedroom, along with coffered ceilings and 10-inch crown moldings in other areas. These elements added architectural detail and helped to visually lower and warm the large spaces. Intimate nooks and specialized areas were also integrated throughout the home, such as a shoe-changing niche under the stairs, a play loft with a slide leading to a secret room, and a dedicated homework station within the kids' playroom. These features not only provided practical solutions but also imbued the home with a playful and personal touch, specifically catering to the family's needs and interests. The residence was also designed with extensive entertaining in mind, featuring a dedicated "lounge" area. This complex includes multiple spaces for socializing, such as a den with ample seating, a pool table, and a bar. Beyond this central entertainment hub, the home boasts a golf simulator, a screening room, and a half-sized basketball court, offering a wide array of recreational options. To maintain a cohesive aesthetic across these diverse spaces, repeating design motifs were used. Rounded corbels, for instance, are found in the breakfast nook's framing, the dining room's floor pattern, bathroom vanities, and kitchen cabinetry and toe-kicks, creating a subtle visual continuity. The interior color palette, primarily consisting of greens and blues, is thoughtfully balanced with mustard and terra-cotta tones, contributing to the home's overall harmonious feel. The homeowners expressed immense satisfaction with the final design, which successfully blended their distinct preferences: the husband's modern tastes and the wife's love for English-inspired details. This unique fusion resulted in a style that the designers playfully dubbed "modern English cottage...mansion," effectively creating a residence that offers both grand scale and intimate, personalized comfort for every member of the family. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #FamilyLiving #WestlakeTexas #LarkInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernEnglishCottage

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

Homebuyers often consider older homes for their unique character, architectural styles, and potential for more living space at a lower price point, often situated in established neighborhoods with mature trees. While new constructions offer modern amenities, older houses provide a rich sense of history, albeit with potential quirks and maintenance considerations. This guide explores various popular architectural styles by decade, outlining the pros and cons associated with purchasing and maintaining these historic properties. Homes from the 1990s and early 2000s, though not truly 'old,' generally comply with contemporary building codes, ensuring safe wiring and efficient insulation. However, systems like HVAC might be dated, requiring eventual replacement, and cosmetic updates could be desired. The 'McMansion' trend of this era offered expansive living spaces but came with high heating and cooling costs and variable construction quality due to rapid building. 'Façade-front' homes prioritized curb appeal with stone or brick fronts, often at the expense of cheaper materials on other sides, necessitating careful inspection for overall structural integrity. Condominiums from this period gained popularity for low exterior maintenance but involve strict HOA rules and fees that can limit remodeling and exterior alterations. The 1970s and 1980s saw the rise of contemporary and split-level designs, influenced by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, featuring open floor plans, large windows, and geometric lines. While contemporary homes are still sought after for their openness, large windows can lead to high energy costs if not updated. Split-level homes, popular in the '70s, offered unique multi-level living but often had challenging sloped yards and potential for auto fumes from integrated garages; however, their current lower demand makes them an affordable option. A-frame houses of the '80s were economical to build due to their roof-dominated exterior and large front windows but suffered from wasted interior space due to sloped walls, although they are energy-efficient and low-maintenance. The post-WWII era of the 1950s and 1960s focused on affordable housing, leading to the proliferation of Midcentury Modern, Pueblo Revival, and Ranch styles. Midcentury Modern homes, often with three bedrooms and one bath, may require updates to wiring, insulation, and windows but are cost-effective to remodel due to their simple designs. Pueblo Revival homes, common in the Southwest, feature adobe and stucco construction, which can be expensive to remodel due to the difficulty of altering windows or doorways. Ranch homes, being single-story and easy to remodel, are popular among retirees but may need costly updates to plumbing and wiring. Between the 1930s and 1940s, during and after the Great Depression, new housing styles emerged, including Cape Cod, Spanish Colonial, and Modern. Cape Cod houses, with their steep roofs, are stylish and compact but can be expensive to re-roof and remodel if not previously updated. Spanish Colonial homes, particularly in the Southwest, are large and beautiful but costly to maintain, heat, cool, and remodel due to their adobe and stucco construction. Modern homes of the 1940s offered slightly larger rooms and often an L-shaped layout, but older versions typically lack energy efficiency unless updated. Houses from the 1910s and 1920s often feature indoor plumbing and a sense of charm. Bungalow and Craftsman styles, characterized by covered front porches and simple lines, are desirable but require significant investment for updating wiring, plumbing, and asbestos removal if in original condition. Art Deco homes, prevalent in some regions, showcase sleek lines and unique decorative elements that can be expensive to remodel while preserving historical integrity. The late 19th century (1850s-1900s) introduced Italianate, Queen Anne, and Shotgun styles. Italianate and Queen Anne homes, often grand and ornate, are impressive but costly to maintain due to intricate details and lack of original insulation. Shotgun houses, long and narrow, were inexpensive to build and remodel, serving as good starter or retirement homes if updated. Even older homes from the 1800s-1850s, such as Farmhouses, Greek Revival, and Log Cabins, typically require extensive updates due to pre-electricity and plumbing construction. Farmhouses are structurally simple for additions but may have foundation issues. Greek Revival homes are massive and beautiful but come with high utility bills and maintenance costs. Log cabins, though historically significant, often require substantial work to be livable by modern standards. Homes from the 1700s and earlier, like Saltbox, Federal, and Tudor styles, are rare and often require meticulous preservation, with remodeling costs being high due to unique materials and historical restrictions. Each era presents distinct architectural beauty and challenges, offering a treasure hunt for discerning homebuyers looking for a piece of history. #OldHomes #HistoricHomes #HomeBuying #ArchitecturalStyles #HomeRenovation #RealEstate #HouseStyles #HomeMaintenance #HomeRemodeling

This article explores interior design and architectural styles prevalent in American homes approximately 100 years ago, coinciding with the country's entry into the Roaring '20s. This period marked a transition with a growing emphasis on interior design, blending various styles. For example, a home in upstate New York showcased rustic features alongside Colonial Revival furniture, indicating a mixture of aesthetic influences. The Arts and Crafts movement also left its mark, as seen in a 1916 writing desk, while other pieces, such as a chair, leaned closer to the Victorian period. Unique elements like patterned wood walls and chintz-patterned chairs were also noted, with chintz gaining broader popularity later. Dining rooms, such as one in Olean, New York, often featured Victorian-style tables complemented by cane-seat chairs, which became mass-produced and popular following the Industrial Revolution. Presidential homes also offered insights into the era's design. Sagamore Hill, Teddy Roosevelt's Queen Anne style home in Oyster Bay, New York, built in the 1890s, received electricity in 1918. It featured big game trophies, and while wallpaper was initially restricted due to toxic agents, it became more common after 1919. The home incorporated pine woodwork, cork tile flooring, and a Classical Revival mantelpiece in its Trophy Room. Roosevelt's library, famous for its mahogany woodwork and stained-glass windows, also exhibited the Queen Anne style. Colonial Revival homes, like the Franklin McFadden home in Radnor Valley Farm, Pennsylvania, showcased terraced gardens and elements of Greek Revival with their columns. This architectural movement, part of the Eclectic movement, aimed for precise renditions of earlier styles but began to wane by the 1960s. Insights into construction and living conditions were also provided by examples such as the radio operators' residence at the U.S. Navy Yard in Norfolk, Virginia, and the four-family quarters built for Panama Canal workers in the Canal Zone, which featured plate rails and decorative swag. The French Colonial-style Hotel Aspinwall on Taboga Island, initially built for canal workers, later became a vacation resort before its disappearance. Post-World War I Europe saw refugees returning to simple brick homes, a common sight in war-torn areas like the Somme region of France. American soldiers returning from the war brought French architectural influences back to the U.S., notably seen in Jacqueline Kennedy's remodeling of the White House. Wallpaper, particularly designs resembling William Morris patterns, was popular, as evidenced in a photo of composer Sidney Hormer's family with their hand-carved dining room table. Another historical residence highlighted was Bullock Hall in Roswell, Georgia, Teddy Roosevelt's mother's birthplace, a Greek Revival home from 1839. The early 20th century also saw the rise of bungalows, accommodating the working class and those seeking summer retreats, with some Adirondack homes showing early bungalow characteristics. Log cabins, like one in the Adirondacks, sometimes retained bark on their pine logs for a rustic look, though this presented construction challenges. Rustic vacation homes in New York often featured stone fireplaces and vertical wood paneling. Interior design also embraced "simple elegance" with Arts and Crafts furniture, border wallpaper, and distinctive lamps. Cozy cabins frequently incorporated natural elements, such as knotty pine paneling. The Rumford fireplace, characterized by its shallow design to reflect heat, was also a notable feature, often paired with beadboard paneling. Finally, the Maltese Cross Cabin, Teddy Roosevelt's former residence in North Dakota, demonstrated dovetail square log construction using ponderosa pine logs and wooden floors, showcasing an example of early American cabin design. #HomeDesignHistory #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyles #Early20thCenturyHomes #QueenAnneStyle #ColonialRevival #ArtsAndCraftsMovement #RusticHomeDecor #BungalowStyle #HistoricalHomes

The Calvin University Residence Life program emphasizes the residence hall as a central component of the student experience, extending beyond mere accommodation to serve as a hub for social interaction, academic pursuits, spiritual growth, and personal development. As a residential institution, Calvin University mandates that students live on campus for their initial two years post-high school, with specific exemptions for individuals aged 21 or older, married students, part-time enrollees, or those residing with parents. This policy underscores the university's commitment to fostering a vibrant on-campus community. Each residence hall features double-occupancy rooms designed in a suite-style configuration, where two rooms share a single bathroom. The rooms come equipped with stackable furniture, including beds with mattresses, dressers, desks, desk lamps, and chairs. Bathrooms are furnished with a shower, toilet, sink, counter space, and storage, with essential supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning supplies readily available at the front reception desk of each hall. Additionally, rooms include closets with shelves, built-in bookshelves, and connectivity options like WiFi and ethernet ports, ensuring a comfortable and functional living and study environment for students. Beyond individual rooms, the residence halls offer a comprehensive array of amenities designed to enhance student life. These include an extra community bathroom with a tub, toilet, and large sink for additional convenience. Each floor provides a lounge area with a kitchen, fostering communal cooking and socializing. Centralized reception desks handle mail and offer sports equipment and games for recreation. Spiritual needs are addressed with meditation chapels and prayer rooms. Academic support is facilitated by network printers, basement lounges, and dedicated study areas. Recreational facilities like a recreation room and bicycle storage options, including outdoor racks and an indoor room, cater to various student interests. Furthermore, specific halls like Bolt-Heyns-Timmer and Noordewier-VanderWerp are equipped with copy machines in their lobbies, and an ATM is available in Noordewier-VanderWerp. A trunk room is provided for storing off-season clothing, boxes, and suitcases, with summer storage options for returning students. Prospective and current students can access practical resources such as a detailed list of what to bring and what not to bring, a Residence Hall Reference Guide in PDF format, and information on housing costs. The university also offers a Student Handbook outlining the Student Conduct Code. To aid in planning and visualization, students can utilize a PDF document detailing dorm layouts and measurements, view a virtual tour of the Bolt-Heyns-Timmer residence hall, and watch a video demonstrating various furniture arrangements. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared and supported during their residential experience at Calvin University, integrating living arrangements seamlessly into their broader educational journey. #ResidenceLife #StudentHousing #CampusLiving #DormRooms #CalvinUniversity #StudentAmenities #OnCampusExperience #UniversityHousing

The article presents a curated list of top country house specialists in Britain, recognized in Country Life's Top 100, crucial for individuals undertaking new-build projects or restoring listed buildings. The selection emphasizes the importance of skilled craftspeople in achieving high-quality outcomes. Each featured company is highlighted for its distinct expertise and contributions to the field of home construction, renovation, and interior design, often with a focus on traditional techniques, sustainable practices, and heritage preservation. Artichoke, a firm with over 30 years of experience, specializes in bespoke kitchens and fitted joinery, known for sensitive updates to period homes and now offering comprehensive interior design services. They prioritize British timber suppliers and cure wood on-site, ensuring a seamless experience from their Somerset base. Artorius Faber, a family-run natural stone specialist from Somerset, creates bespoke interior flagstone flooring, exterior paving, and architectural details like staircases. They utilize stone from their own quarry and reclaimed materials for projects ranging from Georgian townhouses to heritage buildings, offering full-service design and installation. Graphenstone is recognized for its leadership in sustainable paint manufacturing, producing 'Purifying Paints' from lime, calcium carbonates, natural minerals, and graphene. This non-toxic, 21st-century technology, combined with traditional materials, results in ecological, sustainable, and durable paints favored by prominent designers and used in prestigious locations like The Ashmolean and Historic Royal Palaces. Jack Badger, a traditional joinery company, consists of skilled craftspeople celebrated for their work on prestigious heritage projects. Founded 15 years ago, the firm excels in period architectural joinery and carving, including doors, flooring, gates, kitchens, and bespoke pieces. Their commitment to authentic, handmade joinery helps preserve traditional skills, as exemplified by their award-winning work on a medieval manor house. Knowles, established over 30 years ago, is a construction company known for its expertise in complex super-prime projects. This family-run firm provides comprehensive construction and specialist heritage services in London and the Home Counties, including special projects and aftercare. Lapicida, a leading luxury tile and stone specialist, offers a wide array of natural stones, antique reclaimed stone, and Italian porcelains. With showrooms in Harrogate and London, they provide custom design and manufacturing services, including a new collection in collaboration with English Heritage. Oakwrights specializes in award-winning oak-frame homes, extensions, and garden buildings. They use renewable green oak, focusing on energy efficiency and high-performance characteristics. They built the UK's first oak-frame Passivhaus and offer in-house architectural design and workshop visits. Prime Oak is a market leader in oak-frame garden rooms, orangeries, annexes, garages, and stables. Founded in 1999, the company uses sustainable, air-dried oak, manufactured in Staffordshire with show sites in several locations. Moulding, established in 1798, is a family-owned residential builder specializing in new-builds and renovations of country houses. With over 100 craftspeople, they offer in-house bespoke joinery and planned preventative maintenance, also maintaining English Heritage sites across the West of England. R. W. Armstrong, founded in 1957, is another family-owned residential builder operating across the South of England and London. They specialize in the refurbishment and renovation of country houses and listed properties, as well as constructing bespoke new homes, offering in-house joinery and custom architectural interiors. Rose of Jericho, a Dorset-based team, possesses extensive knowledge of materials for conservation, repair, and decoration of traditional and historic buildings. They provide consultancy services, currently for the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace, and are launching a new natural chalk wash paint. W. G. Carter, established in 1947, is a full-service construction company specializing in the restoration and renovation of country and heritage houses, many of which are listed. Operating across Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds, and surrounding counties, the award-winning firm is run by James Robertson. ZOTA, a Cirencester-based construction company, is known for its work in the Cotswolds on new-builds and renovation projects. They collaborate with leading architecture and interior-design studios, providing a complete service from initial planning to realization, including bespoke cabinetry, smart home technology, sustainable solutions, and a specialist decorating team. #CountryHouseSpecialists #BuildingRestoration #HomeRenovation #BespokeJoinery #SustainableBuilding #ArchitecturalInteriors #HeritagePreservation #Craftsmanship #LuxuryHomes

This article explores three distinct properties across Michigan, Florida, and New York, each valued at approximately $2 million, offering a glimpse into diverse architectural styles, historical contexts, and lifestyle opportunities. Each property presents unique features, from expansive single-family homes to multi-unit Art Deco buildings and multi-structure compounds. The first property is a custom-built 1979 house in Ann Arbor, Michigan, listed at $1.99 million. Designed by local architect Don Paul Young, this five-bedroom, six-and-a-half-bathroom residence spans 5,249 square feet on a 0.77-acre lot within the wooded Hillwood Preserve. Situated near the University of Michigan’s Nichols Arboretum, the home offers winter views of the Huron River and convenient access to the university campus and downtown. Recent renovations include new exterior siding, updated windows, and fresh oak flooring in key living areas. The interior features a grand foyer, a dining room with a 16-foot glass wall, a living room with a wood-burning fireplace, and three separate studies. The kitchen is equipped with a granite-topped L-shaped island, a Wolf range, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator, opening to a screened porch and ipe-wood patio. A dedicated guest wing includes a bedroom, bathroom, and office, with elevator access to all floors. The second level houses the master suite with a walk-in closet and private balcony, three additional bedroom suites, and a library connected to an indoor-outdoor exercise room. The finished lower level adds over 2,400 square feet, comprising a family room, office with a fireplace, full bathroom, and workshops, plus access to a three-car garage. Outdoor amenities include a large paved patio with a fire pit, surrounded by mature trees. The second property is a four-unit Art Deco apartment building in Miami Beach, Florida, available for $1.995 million. This 1936 complex, located in the Bayshore neighborhood, is two blocks west of Indian Creek and a short distance from Mid-Beach hotels and cultural attractions. The building totals 4,478 square feet and consists of four identical units, each approximately 1,200 square feet, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The units are sold furnished, and three are currently rented, with leases up to six months and rents ranging from $2,900 to $3,200 monthly. Each unit features a living room with wood floors and a decorative fireplace, a wood-floored dining room, and a kitchen with varying surfaces and appliances. Bedrooms include wrap-around windows and en suite bathrooms. The complex offers a shared garden with a seating area and grill, and street parking permits are available for residents. The third property is a unique compound in Shawangunk, New York, priced at $2.025 million. This 24.7-acre estate features an 1835 farmhouse and a recently built 2019 custom log house, collectively offering eight bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms across 5,400 square feet. Located about 75 miles north of Manhattan, the property serves as the country retreat for an interior designer and her husband, designed for entertaining. The yellow clapboard-sided farmhouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, boasts a traditional double parlor with antique floorboards, wallpaper in modern Victorian patterns, and a kitchen with stainless steel and concrete countertops. The original kitchen downstairs has been converted into a “speakeasy” space. Upstairs, the master bedroom features hand-glued scalloped paper on a slanted wall, and the bathroom combines raw brick, patterned wallpaper, and concrete vanity. The log house, constructed from reclaimed barn wood, showcases eclectic design with botanical and animal-themed wallpapers, contrasting with the dominant wood-and-mortar aesthetic. Each upstairs bedroom in the log house has a private bathroom, and there's a main-floor master suite with a distinctive bathroom. Outdoor features include a hot tub, bandstand, fire pit, seating areas, and a paddock for animals. #RealEstate #LuxuryHomes #HomeDesign #MichiganRealEstate #FloridaRealEstate #NewYorkRealEstate #ArtDeco #HistoricHomes #LogCabin

This article highlights the design philosophy and personal home of Katie Kath, an interior designer and partner at Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Kath embarked on building her dream home with her husband, Jesse, on a double-wide lot along Minnehaha Creek, aiming to create a space that prioritizes timeless interiors, exceptional quality, and impeccable craftsmanship, moving away from a standard builder-grade aesthetic. The vision for their 4,000-square-foot home was to incorporate customized features tailored to their family of five, ensuring every detail was intentional and thoughtfully chosen. The construction of the home, which commenced during the pandemic, was completed in a swift eight months. Despite the rapid timeline, design decisions were meticulously made, with Katie acting as both the manager and client. This dual role necessitated careful attention to both major and minor details to ensure the home's enduring appeal. Key design elements on the main floor include reclaimed wood beams from Manomin Resawn Timbers and alder accents in the cabinetry, island, and built-in banquette, which together create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The cast stone fireplace surround, matching the kitchen cabinetry, serves as a contemporary focal point in the living room, with white oak flooring extending up to its base for a seamless look. The home's modern design is enhanced by black-frame windows, which are balanced with gold tones to maintain a comfortable and clean feel. The baseboards and millwork are intentionally taller than standard, adding a traditional touch. Unlacquered brass cabinet hardware from Armac Martin in London provides a desired contrast in the kitchen. Beyond the physical design, the article emphasizes that the true essence of Kath's home lies in the traditions she shares with her family, especially during the holiday season. These traditions transform the house into a cozy, safe, warm, and inviting home, fulfilling her original vision of a timeless, traditional abode with festive flair. Kath also shares practical tips for incorporating seasonal spirit into home decor without overwhelming the space or compromising on timelessness. She advises decorating for the season rather than specific holidays to allow decor to remain relevant for longer periods. Sticking to neutral earth tones for the main color scheme, with bright accents, is another recommendation. Kath suggests focusing decorating efforts on main entertaining areas, like the ground floor, and involving family in the decorating process to make it an enjoyable event. Finally, she advocates for investing in high-quality, reusable decor pieces, such as garland, and taking advantage of end-of-season sales to build a collection of timeless decorations that can be cherished year after year. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #TimelessInteriors #HolidayDecor #CustomHome #JkathDesignBuild #Renovation #FamilyHome #SeasonalDecor

The article, originally published in March 1994, explores the enduring appeal of home libraries in a world increasingly dominated by electronics. It highlights that despite technological advancements, the love for physical books and the rooms dedicated to them remains strong, with Barnes & Noble continuing to expand its superstores. The piece features insights from prominent figures such as writer Joan Didion, who describes her household's extensive book collection spanning every room, organized by genre, chronology, or even sentimental value. Didion notes the constant need for more shelving despite working from home, illustrating a common challenge for avid readers. Renowned interior designer Billy Baldwin's 1972 book, *Bill Baldwin Decorates*, is cited, asserting that books are a premier decorative asset for any room, including unexpected spaces like bathrooms. Baldwin emphasized that the type of shelving material is less important than the books themselves, advocating for various options from glass and metal to oak and pine. Architect Pietro Cicognani of Cicognani Kalla Architects encourages clients to build libraries, viewing them as reflections of a homeowner's intellectual life and interests. He envisions libraries with natural light, rounded walls, and comfortable seating, ideal for reading and contemplation. Architectural professors Robert Dripps and Lucia Phinney exemplify this dedication with their two-story library in Virginia, which serves as the heart of their home. Their library houses a diverse collection, including architectural theory, family heirlooms, and historical documents like a Thomas Jefferson letter. The family enjoys dining in their library weekly, and visitors often express a desire to spend more time in the space, underscoring its inviting atmosphere. Writer A.M. Homes shares her own experience of books overflowing shelves and transforming into makeshift furniture, emphasizing that books reveal more about their owners' personalities than the owners themselves. Judith Joseph, President and CEO of Rizzoli International, discusses her family's built-in shelves and her daughter's growing collection, noting the comfort and memories books provide. Robert Silvers, editor of *The New York Review of Books*, ponders the absence of books in magazine-featured apartments, confirming his own home office is surrounded by diverse literary works, from dictionaries to French classics. Silvers is selective about new additions, questioning whether he will revisit a book before acquiring it. The article concludes by referencing Thomas Jefferson's profound love for books, demonstrated by his immediate re-establishment of a personal library after selling his original collection to form the nucleus of the Library of Congress. The overarching sentiment is that books are indispensable for many, a testament to their enduring value in home and life. #HomeLibraries #InteriorDesign #BookCollection #ArchitecturalDesign #LiteraryLifestyle #HomeDecor #ReadingNooks #PersonalSpaces

This article provides an in-depth look at a unique open-concept living and dining room located in an 1840s rowhouse in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia. The design, executed by Phoebe Schuh of PS & Daughters, successfully integrates historical elements with modern aesthetics, creating a family-friendly and livable space. The primary design goal was to create a mixed-use area suitable for both family life and entertaining. One notable feature discussed is the use of salvaged large interior doors, which were originally from a demolished church in the neighborhood. These doors contribute to the room's eclectic charm and historical depth. The article highlights a bold design choice: a dark grey accent wall painted with Valspar's Mark Twain Grey. This decision was made to enhance a large print with an oversized white frame, making the artwork 'pop' against the darker background. This illustrates how strategic use of color can dramatically impact the presentation of art within a space. The house, built in the 1840s, features original rustic wood beams and flooring, which were intentionally left unrestored to preserve their character. To prevent the exposed wood beams from feeling overwhelming or making the tall ceilings appear lower, simple Italian light fixtures were chosen. This decision maintained a youthful and livable ambiance, avoiding the heaviness that a more elaborate chandelier might have introduced. A significant design victory involved the fireplace. Initially covered with multiple layers of lavender paint, the entire brick fireplace and a hidden square tile medallion from the 1840s were meticulously restored. The paint was removed to reveal the original tile work, adding significant warmth and historical authenticity to the room. Further enhancing the fireplace, an 1840s wooden mantelpiece was salvaged from Architectural Antiques Exchange. This piece, with its rustic yet clean lines, provided a perfect finishing touch that integrated seamlessly with the room's eclectic style. To define different zones within the large open-concept space, a custom sisal area rug was used to delineate the living area, creating a distinct zone for seating, conversation, and television viewing. The fireplace naturally divides the space, while an oversized window and a modern chandelier contribute to the spacious feel of the dining area. The biggest design challenge was harmonizing the eclectic art and furniture with the 1840s townhouse architecture without creating an imbalance. This was achieved through careful paint choices and the selection of clean, minimal furniture, which helped maintain a light and accessible feel throughout the space. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #NorthernLiberties #PhiladelphiaRealEstate #HistoricHome #EclecticDesign #RowhouseRenovation