Milton Home Designed for Creative Pursuits

The "Providence" residence in Milton, Georgia, a luxurious six-bedroom, nine-bathroom abode near the Atlanta National Golf Course, underwent a significant interior design transformation led by Aliesha Porto of Stevie Interiors. The project aimed to elevate the home's aesthetics, focusing on an elegant black and white color scheme. The client, who discovered Stevie Interiors through their Crabapple studio, sought design assistance to enhance the property's grandeur. A key feature of the redesigned home is the foyer, which sets a formal tone with its black and white marble flooring. This traditional yet fashionable design choice was a specific vision of the homeowner, which Stevie Interiors helped actualize. The dining room showcases a striking spiral chandelier, chosen for its texture to complement the marble flooring. Additionally, a dried floral arrangement commissioned from The Crafted Company introduces a natural element into the space, blending indoor and outdoor aesthetics. Meghan Basinger, CEO of Stevie Interiors, provided insights into the design process and offered advice for individuals embarking on their own home renovation projects. She emphasized the importance of a focused, room-by-room approach, advocating for quality and completion over attempting to address multiple areas simultaneously. Basinger suggested that rather than scattering efforts across various rooms, it is more effective to perfect one space before moving on to the next, even if it extends the renovation timeline over several years. She cautioned against underestimating the duration and complexity of renovations, advising homeowners to multiply their expected timeline by five to establish more realistic expectations. This perspective highlights the firm's commitment to thoroughness and client preparedness in design undertakings. #InteriorDesign #MiltonGeorgia #LuxuryHome #StevieInteriors #HomeRenovation #BlackAndWhiteDesign #AlieshaPorto #MeghanBasinger

The article explores how a newly constructed home in Utah was transformed into a characterful and cozy living space, despite the typical challenges of new builds often lacking a lived-in feel. Interior designer Alex Adamson was involved from the planning stages, aiming to instill warmth and character into the modern structure. The design draws inspiration from a nostalgic New England style and colonial architecture, incorporating thoughtful detailing to create a timeless aesthetic. The living room exemplifies this approach, designed as a comfortable and familiar space. Alex Adamson explains that infusing warmth and character into a new build, which can often feel sterile, was a primary challenge. To overcome this, she drew inspiration from the client's childhood home and neighborhood in Maryland, integrating nostalgic elements through custom millwork, classic wallpaper, and antique fireplace mantels. The inclusion of vintage furniture further enhances the aged, storied feel of the room. A golden grasscloth wallcovering, suggested by Adamson late in the build process, became a favored feature, along with a custom-designed rug. For the dining room, the family, consisting of eight members, needed an extra-long dining table to accommodate their frequent hosting of guests. Since a vintage piece of the required scale was not available, a custom table was designed to replicate antique details, ensuring it fit seamlessly into the space while maintaining a timeless appeal. The overall spatial planning was crucial for this forever home, with rooms designed to be spacious and flexible enough for a growing family and future generations, particularly for large holiday gatherings. The kitchen, central to an entertaining home, features a large stainless steel and brass Lacanche range and double islands. One island is specifically dedicated to seating, serving as a family gathering spot for daily meals, reminiscent of a classic farmhouse work table. Key elements in the kitchen, such as copper pots on a pan rail, glazed white cabinetry, and a classic white tiled backsplash, were chosen to evoke a sense of history and tradition, echoing the homeowner's East Coast upbringing. An adjoining colorful pantry, with rich blue cabinetry and walnut counters, adds both visual interest and practical functionality, designed for everyday use while complementing the owner's blue and white plate collection. Instead of a conventional home office, a cozy, wood-paneled library and music room were created, adding significant character to the new build. This space was intentionally designed with a round table and comfortable seating to foster an inviting atmosphere, moving away from a traditional desk setup. The children's areas also reflect this emphasis on coziness, with a playroom functioning as a library and chess area, featuring a niche for a sofa nestled among bookshelves to create a tucked-in, warm reading spot. The primary bedroom was designed as a sanctuary for the parents of six children, featuring a calming palette of warm buttery cream and soft neutrals. A large antique rug, an antique fireplace mantel, and a distinctive crossed four-poster bedframe contribute to the room's importance and tranquil ambiance. Soft furnishings like floral-printed Roman shades and linen drapes add layers of comfort. An adjoining dressing room, designed to be light and airy with sheer drapes and a custom scalloped ottoman, helps maintain a clutter-free environment. One of the girls' bedrooms utilizes a tone-on-tone approach with varied patterns, including a Robert Kime floral wallpapered ceiling and Les Indiennes hand-blocked duvet, tied together with a soft green rug to create a pretty yet sophisticated look. The designer expressed satisfaction with achieving a timeless feel for the new build and the positive client reactions, particularly from the children, highlighting the rewarding experience of balancing old and new elements and working with various vendors and craftsmen. #InteriorDesign #NewBuild #HomeTour #CharacterfulHomes #UtahHomes #NostalgicDecor #CustomMillwork

This article highlights four distinctive home design projects by various architectural firms, showcasing innovative approaches to residential living spaces. Each project demonstrates a unique blend of creativity, functionality, and personalized style, reflecting contemporary trends in interior and architectural design. The first featured project is by Itch Società d’Architettura in Milan, focusing on the transformation of early-20th-century attic apartments and duplexes. These residences incorporate clever interventions such as a daylight-ushering glass rooftop extension that opens onto a balcony, enhancing natural light and outdoor access. The design also emphasizes refined color blocking, which serves to animate and add character to otherwise understated interiors, utilizing original wood-slat ceilings crisscrossed with steel beams as a foundational element. Next, Ubalt Architectes in Paris presents a conversion of a 1970s computer data center into a live-work unit on the outskirts of the Marais district. This project boldly reimagines the typically grayscale office environment with fearless design choices. Notable features include vertical blinds, a vibrant jolt of tinted Plexiglas cladding structural steel, and a unique staggered terrazzo jardiniere. This jardiniere, accessed by a surrealist pool ladder, ingeniously extends the terrace greenery into the interior space, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Office S&M;, an emerging London practice, contributes a remodeled lower level of a Victorian town house in Islington. Their design is characterized by a playful and vibrant aesthetic, incorporating joyous tropical colors and tinted mirrors that introduce warped views, adding a whimsical dimension to the space. Custom built-ins, designed with peaks and arches, reference the surrounding architecture and evoke a playhouse-like charm. A strong emphasis on sustainability is evident through the use of reclaimed materials, such as countertops made from melted-down plastics and pendant lights crafted from recycled crushed brick, giving new life to previously existing elements. Finally, Rowland+Broughton showcases a contemporary three-story family home in Aspen, Colorado. This residence is a crisp composition of natural and refined materials, including soap-finished larch, bleached oak, charred pine, and black steel. Situated adjacent to a meadow and surrounded by evergreens, spruce trees, and Gambel oaks, the home integrates seamlessly with its natural environment. Interior highlights include a sculptural spiral staircase featuring LED-lit treads and a hand-carved Pele de Tigre marble fireplace, a collaboration with the Haas Brothers, which serves as a central artistic statement within the home. These elements collectively define a sophisticated and modern living space deeply connected to its serene surroundings. #ResidentialDesign #CreativeHomes #InteriorArchitecture #HomeRenovation #MilanDesign #ParisianLiveWork #LondonTownhouse #AspenHome

The top floor of a two-unit limestone townhouse in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, previously characterized by a challenging, maze-like layout, underwent a significant renovation by Shapeless Studio to enhance its functionality and aesthetics for a young family of three. The primary goal was to simplify the floor plan, increase natural light, and incorporate ample storage, a common priority in New York City apartments. Architects Andrea Fisk and Jess Thomas Hinshaw of Shapeless Studio undertook the project, focusing on opening up spaces and improving flow. Key design elements include the extensive use of rounded millwork throughout the apartment. This distinctive feature is present in the new kitchen cabinetry, a storage and display unit on the dining area wall, and a bay-windowed breakfast nook. The same curved motif is extended to frame wide openings between public spaces, contributing to a softer and more cohesive interior aesthetic. The design team also aimed to retain the apartment's original character by preserving existing window moldings, restoring baseboards, and replicating old panel doors in the bedroom hallway. The narrow-plank wood floors were maintained and repaired as needed. Due to budget constraints, initial lighting plans were deferred, with temporary porcelain socket fixtures installed. These are intended for future replacement. The color palette was carefully selected, involving a review of 150 samples to find hues that resonated with the clients. Benjamin Moore Featherstone was chosen for the basic wall color in the kitchen, bedroom, and bath, while Benjamin Moore Brandy Cream was used for the custom millwork. A notable and unique aspect of the renovation is the playful floor treatment in the gut-renovated bathroom. This was created using an assemblage of broken stone remnants, including fragments of colored marbles and limestone, along with repurposed terrazzo from a previous project, to achieve a chunky terrazzo effect. The bathroom also benefited from the restoration of a previously covered skylight, which introduced natural light into the space. The custom vanity top in the bathroom and the kitchen counters utilize Durat, a durable, polyester-based composite solid surface material made from recycled plastic. In the living room, a dark bluish-gray, extra-smooth projector paint was applied to one wall, matched with Benjamin Moore Dior Grey on other walls. This solution addressed the homeowners' desire to watch television without a visible screen, using a hideaway projector setup. The kitchen design features only lower cabinets and a thin metal shelf to maintain a light and open feel. MDF was chosen for cabinetry due to its ease of carving. Additionally, a 'stealth refrigerator' was integrated into the dining area's custom millwork due to space constraints in the kitchen. Built-in seating and a 'puddle-shaped' table create a distinct breakfast nook under the bay window. The son's room features wallpaper sourced from the Danish brand Ferm Living. The project successfully transformed a challenging space into a light-filled, functionally improved home with distinctive design elements. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentRenovation #BrooklynHomes #CustomMillwork #SmallSpaceDesign #ShapelessStudio #ModernInteriors #LimestoneTownhouse #ProspectLeffertsGardens

Metricon has unveiled its latest collection of display homes at SkyRidge, showcasing a fusion of thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship tailored for the contemporary home upgrader. These four residences are engineered to embody light-filled, intelligent, and insightful designs, seamlessly blending local Australian aesthetics with enduring functionality. Each home at SkyRidge is characterized by a cohesive layout that balances sophistication with practicality, ensuring that every space enhances the rhythm of daily life. The design philosophy centers on creating bright, fresh, and warm atmospheres, offering open social areas for gatherings, and incorporating intuitive zoning to provide both privacy and connection. This approach defines modern living at its peak. Adrian Popple, Metricon’s Design Director, emphasizes that customers seek more than just a house; they desire a home that feels welcoming and meticulously considered. This philosophy is evident across the SkyRidge display homes, where every space serves a purpose, the kitchen acts as the central hub, and natural light freely flows through open-plan living areas, culminating in a modern yet timeless expression. The collection includes the Waterford 47, which makes a bold statement in modern contemporary design with its Pacific façade, featuring striking cantilevers and geometric forms. This home offers a well-appointed guest suite, an entertainer’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, and expansive living spaces with dramatic ceiling voids. Upstairs, it provides three bedrooms with ensuites and a secluded master suite. Its interiors are marked by sleek dark cabinetry, metallic accents, and statement tiles. The Vantage 48, with its Las Palmas façade, draws inspiration from Palm Springs, showcasing mid-century modern charm through clean lines and expressive details. It boasts grand voids and an arched window that illuminate the open-plan living and dining areas, extending seamlessly to an outdoor entertaining space. The upper level includes a master retreat and additional bedrooms. The interior design of the Vantage 48 features curved forms, pastel accents, and a sophisticated wine storage room. The Clara 27, presenting the Escape façade, blends traditional elements with modern sensibilities. It features a private bedroom wing, a media room, and open-plan living areas. The kitchen, equipped with a walk-in pantry and raked ceilings, is positioned as the heart of the home. Scandi Luxe interiors, incorporating veined tiles, soft hues, and brass finishes, contribute to its warm and understated luxury. Completing the collection is the Marion 40, featuring the classic Princeton façade, which combines refined aesthetics with functional design. A grand entry leads to a light-filled stair foyer and a study. The master suite upstairs includes two walk-in robes, a private balcony, and an indulgent ensuite. This home offers multi-zoned living to ensure both privacy and connection, with coastal-inspired interiors in crisp whites and soothing greys creating a serene atmosphere. Popple highlights the kitchen in the Marion 40 as a highly functional and welcoming space, enhanced by carefully selected lighting. These homes collectively underscore Metricon’s dedication to quality and innovation, providing prospective homebuyers with a vision of an elevated lifestyle. Located at Parkway Circuit, Worongary 4213, these display homes are open daily for exploration. #HomeDesign #ModernLiving #MetriconDisplayHomes #SkyRidge #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #FamilyHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeUpgraders

Liz and Daniel Farrar, after living in Charlotte for over a decade and residing in several rental homes, finally found their ideal property on Carmel Road in South Charlotte. While the existing house itself held no appeal, the 3.6-acre lot, adorned with five 100-year-old magnolia trees, captivated them. Initially, the couple planned a renovation to accommodate their four children, aged 4 to 13. However, their architect and contractor advised against salvaging the old structure due to previous improper renovations, making a complete rebuild the more practical option. Having lived in numerous houses and with Liz's parents having built custom homes, the Farrars aimed to integrate their favorite elements into their 'forever home'. They enlisted Benham Builders, architect Scott Fleming, and designer Crystal Nagel to bring their vision to life, resulting in a new 7,600-square-foot residence. Their wish list was extensive and specific: Daniel desired a wraparound porch and large wood-burning fireplaces, while Liz sought an art deco style and 'dueling offices' off the foyer. The children wanted a pool, and the entire family prioritized ample space for entertaining and a kitchen capable of accommodating many people. Crystal Nagel emphasized designing a home that would serve the family for the long term, incorporating all their needs from the outset. Groundbreaking occurred in January 2022, and Crystal collaborated closely with Liz on every design decision, noting Liz's strong communication skills and clarity in identifying priorities. They opted for a light-colored, knotty floor for a casual feel, complemented by stained kitchen cabinets. While Liz favored bold colors, Crystal expertly moderated this preference to translate her vibrant personality into the home's aesthetic without overwhelming it. The exterior was designed in a classic Cape Cod style to blend seamlessly with the existing magnolias. As a mother of four herself, Crystal understood the need for functionality, designing what she termed a 'workhorse of a house' with durable furniture and fixtures. The interior boasts six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, and two half-baths. The outdoor living space spans 2,500 square feet, featuring a covered patio, grill, and fireplace. A bright-yellow 'friend entrance' door on the side of the house, symbolic of friendship and happiness for Liz, adds a welcoming touch. The kitchen is equipped with two dishwashers, three sinks, a 60-inch Wolf range, and two oversized islands, designed for both dining and prep space, facilitating large gatherings. The islands are painted in Sherwin-Williams’ Underseas, with white oak cabinets featuring a matte finish. Durable quartz countertops and wipeable leather bar stools were selected. A glass mosaic tile backsplash serves as an accent wall, and brass hardware complements the custom vent hood. A retractable window above the sink opens to the patio, functioning as a snack bar for the pool area. The scullery includes a refrigerator, sink, and dishwasher, with a modern art deco marble backsplash featuring a brass inset, contrasting with the kitchen's more functional design. For the butler’s pantry, a fishtail tile backsplash with glittery marble adds an art deco touch. The cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore's Montpelier and feature reeded glass doors. The spacious mudroom, designated the 'command center,' has porcelain brick floor tiles for dirt concealment and a large island for laundry. Each family member has a dedicated locker with shoe storage beneath, crafted from natural stained wood for durability. The primary bathroom features stained white oak cabinets, white porcelain plank flooring, and a makeup station with abundant natural light. Custom-made large mirrors from Frame Warehouse and polished nickel light fixtures from Visual Comfort were installed. The cabinet hardware incorporates reeded pulls, and the sinks have a scalloped texture, subtly echoing the art deco theme. Liz's 'dueling offices' flank the foyer, which opens into a family room with 10-foot ceilings and a grand fireplace for Daniel. A fluted console table with a Josh Jensen painting and sconces occupies a nook beside the fireplace, connecting to the primary bedroom. The sofa was custom-made, with accent chairs and tables sourced from Slate Interiors, lamps from Black Lion, and an area rug from The Loom and Co., reflecting Liz's 'eclectic and collected' style. Since moving in last July, the house has been a hub of activity, fulfilling the family's desire for a welcoming and functional home for entertaining and everyday life. #HomeDesign #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #CharlotteRealEstate #FamilyHome #ArtDecoInfluence #KitchenDesign #FunctionalLiving #TeardownRebuild

This article highlights a 6,810-square-foot, two-story residence in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, designed and built by Michael Paul Design + Build, specifically for an active family of five. The project, overseen by CEO/owner Michael Laumann, prominently featured the contributions of Natalie Talley from Talley Jane Interiors and Maggie Tarr from Margaret Jane Design Group, emphasizing a collaborative and 'girl power' driven effort. The home's design successfully blends "Midwest modern" aesthetics with functionality and entertainment, catering to the family's dynamic lifestyle. The residence boasts extensive recreational amenities, including a two-level sport court, an outdoor pool, an exercise room, an indoor faux hockey rink, and a 21-foot rock climbing wall, alongside a family bonus room for movies and a dedicated craft area for children. The interior design emphasizes durability and practicality, incorporating performance fabrics in various colors, leather upholstery to prevent staining, and vinyl wall coverings, selected for their resilience against the wear and tear of an active household. Talley Jane Interiors was chosen by the homeowners after their positive impression of her work on the 2019 Luxury Home Tour. The aesthetic of the home is characterized by a "Midwest modern" style, achieved through the integration of rustic-style beams and columns, and a selection of natural materials. Key material choices include Italian marble, a walnut-clad refrigerator, and dark-wash wood floors. The home also features custom oak, walnut, and painted cabinets and built-ins, complemented by a sophisticated color palette of grays ranging from jet black to taupe. This approach aims for an earthy look without being overtly rustic, creating a refined yet natural atmosphere. Notable architectural and design features include a modern floating staircase at the front of the home, a generously sized 'chef-inspired' back pantry, and breathtaking views of the Minnesota River Valley, particularly from the master bedroom and the entire second level. Michael Laumann emphasized the prime location of the lot, describing it as one of the top ten in the metro area, with the design goal of maximizing these views. The project successfully met the clients' objectives, providing a home that offers comfort, refuge, and ample opportunities for family activities and memory-making, such as impromptu hockey matches. The house details include five bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a blend of rustic and modern design elements. #HomeDesign #MidwestModern #LuxuryHome #FamilyFriendlyDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CustomBuild #EdenPrairie #RecreationalAmenities

The Coach House, a compact three-bedroom residence with an ash-lined guest annexe, has been completed by London-based Open Practice Architecture and interior design studio Kinder Design. Situated on a previously neglected infill site in East Dulwich, which once housed a Ministry of Transport (MOT) garage and its outbuildings, the project represents a growing trend of architectural firms venturing into property development. Open Practice Architecture and Kinder Design jointly acquired the site in 2017, acting as both developers and designers. The main house, organized around a central courtyard, was finished in 2022, followed by the adjacent annexe in 2023. Rupert Scott, director at Open Practice Architecture, highlighted that this approach allows architects to navigate challenging market conditions by directly engaging in development. Despite aiming for an "architecturally unique" outcome, the design intent was to create a structure that integrated subtly into its surroundings rather than drawing overt attention. The primary objective was to deliver a serene, well-lit, and functional family home that also met high standards of insulation and energy efficiency. The L-shaped layout of the Coach House mirrors the footprint of the original structures on the site. The ground floor accommodates the living, dining, and kitchen areas, which feature full-height sliding glass doors that open directly onto the central courtyard, fostering an indoor-outdoor connection. A white-steel staircase provides access to the first floor, where three bedrooms are situated. These bedrooms offer views of both the central courtyard and a strategically placed lightwell, designed to draw natural light into the deeper, naturally darker sections of the plot. Scott elaborated on the challenge of maximizing natural light, given the building's north-facing orientation. The inclusion of a "light pocket" at the rear was crucial in allowing two of the bedrooms to benefit from south-facing light, preventing all rooms from being clustered around the courtyard and ensuring a more equitable distribution of sunlight throughout the upper level. The material palette reflects a blend of historical context and modern functionality. Reclaimed London brick was chosen for the exterior, enabling the Coach House to harmoniously blend with the surrounding mews buildings and acknowledging the site's utilitarian past. The interiors are characterized by painted and plywood walls, complemented by a concrete floor with exposed aggregate, maintaining an industrial yet refined aesthetic. A large sliding wooden door, suspended from an exposed steel beam, marks the entrance, further referencing the site's previous function. The guest annexe presents a material contrast, featuring natural ash cladding on both its interior and exterior surfaces, including a hinged shutter on the first floor. This singular material application for the annexe, while simple, provides a deliberate visual counterbalance and acts as a distinct "bookend" to the main residence, according to Scott. This project contributes to a series of infill developments in London, such as a textured brick house by Platform 5 Architects and a cluster of homes with sawtooth roofs by Dallas Pierce Quintero, all of which creatively repurpose former industrial or neglected spaces. #CoachHouse #OpenPracticeArchitecture #KinderDesign #LondonArchitecture #EastDulwich #InfillDevelopment #ResidentialArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ReclaimedBrick #CourtyardDesign

The article explores the increasing trend of custom-built homes designed to deeply reflect the homeowners' unique hobbies, habits, lifestyles, and aspirations. It highlights various examples of newly constructed residences that integrate personalized features, from specialized storage solutions and accessibility considerations like elevators to bespoke artistic elements such as custom murals and wallpaper. This focus on personalization ensures that each home serves as a distinct extension of its occupants' lives. One featured home, built by Stonewood for empty nesters seeking an "Up North" feel near the Twin Cities, exemplifies luxury and natural integration. By combining two Lake Minnetonka lots, the design maximizes privacy and incorporates traditional elements like stone arches, cedar shingle siding, and custom iron handrails, all chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. The interior boasts extensive millwork, unpolished brass, and blackened hardware that will gracefully patina over time. Custom wallpaper in each room contributes to a unique narrative, while ample windows frame lake views. The home also incorporates forward-thinking materials and systems, including geothermal heating, superior insulation, and low-maintenance exteriors, achieving a blend of timeless design and modern sustainability without sacrificing beauty. Another project by Nor-Son Custom Builders demonstrates a "Mixed Media" approach, blending rustic charm with modern sophistication. This home features a juxtaposition of materials, with steel and metal accents alongside natural timber and stone. The exterior combines natural stone, brick, and cement board siding, while the interior showcases a three-story stairwell with metal railings, wrapped in brick, and reclaimed oak flooring. Reclaimed oak beams in the great room complement a concrete fireplace and countertops in the kitchen. A notable detail is the owner's suite headboard wall, crafted from reclaimed walnut sourced from trees removed from the building site, further emphasizing the integration of natural and repurposed materials. Gonyea Custom Homes' model home, initially showcased in the Parade of Homes, redefines the concept of a "model" by focusing on realism and attainability rather than a generic template. Strategically placed to leverage a preserved wetland, the kitchen is at the front, allowing the great room and dining area to enjoy scenic views. A unique staircase design includes a mid-level loft for versatile use as a music room, office, or sitting area, and a dedicated kids' space maximizes functionality. The home incorporates various colors beyond white, such as a soothing tan in the kitchen, and features unique light fixtures, custom wall paneling, and artisan tile work. Earth tones and curved, organic shapes like arches contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance. Streeter Custom Builder's "Old Romantics" project on a lakeside property blends classical aesthetics with whimsical, personal details. The East Coast–inspired exterior, with its stone and symmetry, gives way to an interior filled with character. A porthole window into the pantry and Grecian-patterned vent covers add antique charm. A hand-painted verdure mural in the dining room conceals a hidden jib door leading to a blushing pink china closet, adding an unexpected touch of whimsy. Custom tiling in the kids' shower with a "No Diving" motif and a pull-down world map at the kitchen table further reflect the homeowners' personalities and travel aspirations. Landschute's Cape Cod-inspired lakefront property, designed with two equally important "front" sides due to its lake visibility, focuses on classic style and extensive outdoor living. Gables, dormers, gray shingles, and white windows create an approachable, luxurious aesthetic. The home features multiple porches on both the front and lakeside, along with a boathouse, creating abundant spaces for relaxation and enjoying the waterfront. OA Design+Build+Architecture's "Coloring Outside the Lines" project emphasizes the connection between built and natural environments. The exterior features durable PVC decking with a cedar look, contrasting with stark panels and channel. The color palette, including a copper roof, blue and beige panels, and orange highlights, creates a complex yet calming impression. Inside, the primary suite showcases urban forested burl maple and Russian olive in the vanity, a Turkish quartzite counter resembling petrified wood, and hand-carved sinks with kimono patterns. A "rust wall" in the mudroom, designed to look like Corten steel, meets a spalted birch bench, celebrating the natural beauty of materials in various stages. Ron Clark Construction and Design's "Small But Mighty" walk-out rambler in Ridgewood Ponds targets downsizers who desire high-end finishes and ample space for entertaining. It features big windows, a cathedral vault with arched trusses on the main level, and a lower level designed for parties with a stone fireplace, wet bar, and billiards room. The design incorporates trends towards more color, layered looks, millwork, and stained cabinetry. A clever apothecary-style built-in at the stairs conceals functional doors behind decorative drawer fronts. Custom One Homes' "Life, Styled" project was tailored to a health-conscious couple's specific needs, including a chef’s kitchen, double island, and generous bedrooms. A dedicated wellness retreat on the lower level, complete with a workout area, infrared sauna, and adjacent outdoor hot tub, provides a private sanctuary. An elevator was included for longevity, ensuring the home can adapt to their changing needs over time. A sunroom connects the interior to the deck and outdoor kitchen, and the backyard features multiple entertainment areas, water features, and lounging zones, designed as an extension of the indoor living spaces. Howard Homes' "Natural Selection" project, designed by Albertsson Hansen Architecture and Interior Design, focuses on simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature. The secluded home uses natural materials like a dramatic natural fir ceiling and a soapstone slab island. The color palette draws from the surrounding landscape, featuring whites and muted greens. Adaptability is key, with a main-floor office that doubles as an overflow bedroom via a hidden Murphy bed. The homeowners actively restored natural prairie grass and created a large garden, with all interior finishes and wood window sashes chosen to frame the natural views like art, reinforcing the idea of homes becoming a personal reflection of their owners' lives and habits. Finally, Bronder Construction’s cabin, designed by Rehkamp Larson Architects, on a central Minnesota lake, embodies "Cabin Fever" with Scandinavian flair and year-round functionality. Despite its narrow peninsula location, every room offers water views. The design prioritizes private indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, with a deep overhang porch featuring a fireplace and ceiling heaters to extend its use through seasons. Durable, polished concrete with heated floors on the first level and warm wood cladding throughout the main floor create a cozy, Scandi-inspired atmosphere. A remodeled bunkhouse and renovated storage shed with a rooftop deck provide flexible spaces for smaller groups, quiet reading, or remote work, catering to the post-COVID trend of balancing togetherness with individual space. #CustomHomes #InteriorDesign #Architecture #HomeBuilding #LuxuryHomes #PersonalizedSpaces #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

This article highlights the historical significance and modern amenities of the Wagamon House, a bungalow located in the heart of Milton's historic district. Built in 1913, the property showcases a successful blend of traditional architecture with contemporary upgrades, reflecting a dedicated effort by its previous owners to maintain and enhance its classic charm. The listing agent, Leslie Byrne of Anthony Patrick Real Estate LLC, emphasizes the specialized attention required for historic homes and praises the meticulous upkeep of this particular property. The main house features elegant hardwood floors throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It includes formal living and dining spaces that are well-suited for entertaining guests. The first floor accommodates two bedrooms and one full bathroom. The kitchen, equipped with stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops, maintains a traditional self-contained layout. An innovative conversion of the former “summer kitchen” has resulted in a bright and cozy dining area, which provides direct access to an expansive outdoor deck, ideal for relaxation and social gatherings. Adding to the property's allure are the beautifully landscaped grounds, which boast a charming pergola and a tranquil koi pond. These outdoor features contribute to a luxurious living experience. The second floor of the main residence is dedicated to a comprehensive owner's suite. This private sanctuary comprises a bedroom, a bathroom, a comfortable living area, a kitchen with a wraparound bar, and a dining space, offering complete self-sufficiency and comfort. In addition to the main house, the property includes a detached two-car garage, which also provides a third carport space. Above the garage, a one-bedroom apartment has been thoughtfully developed. This auxiliary unit features a kitchen on the ground floor, while the upstairs level encompasses a bedroom, a living area, a bathroom, and a walk-out deck. Leslie Byrne notes that this apartment was specifically designed and converted for use as Airbnb accommodations, presenting a lucrative opportunity for potential buyers. This setup allows for versatile use of the space, whether as a private guesthouse for visitors or as a short-term or long-term rental property, generating additional income. Beyond its architectural and interior merits, the bungalow's location is a significant advantage. It offers convenient access to a variety of local attractions in Milton and Lewes, enhancing the lifestyle appeal for residents. Furthermore, the property is situated close to the natural beauty of Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge and the popular coastal destination of Rehoboth Beach, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. The article underscores that the Wagamon House offers a unique combination of historic elegance, modern comfort, and strategic location, making it a highly desirable residence. #MiltonDelaware #HistoricHome #Bungalow #RealEstate #HomeDesign #LuxuryLiving #RentalProperty

A family seeking a unique summer retreat in Southampton commissioned a home that deviates from the typical Hamptons shingle-style aesthetic. They collaborated with local architect James Merrell to design a modern structure on a four-acre plot, which successfully balances 21st-century design with traditional Hamptons village vernacular. The resulting H-shaped house, oriented east to west, maximizes natural light throughout the day, with careful placement of windows and plantings by AD100 landscape architect Edmund Hollander ensuring views of the outdoors from every room. To infuse the Zen-inspired interiors with personality and vibrancy, AD100 designer Kelly Behun was enlisted. The homeowners expressed a desire for both playful and sophisticated elements. Behun curated a space filled with distinctive furniture and art, leveraging her network of artisans. Notable pieces include a Shape Up chandelier by Ladies & Gentlemen Studio, colorful rugs designed by Kinder Modern and Behun for the Rug Company, and a collection of Memphis Group ceramics alongside contemporary vessels by Erica Prince and Manal Kara. Behun approached furniture as sculptural elements, prioritizing both comfort and functionality. The outdoor spaces were also integrated into the design, with Behun collaborating with Hollander to strategically place and light outdoor art installations. These include a stainless-steel zipper sculpture by Mark Richard Hall and an eight-foot-tall painted-fiberglass sculpture by Chiaozza. For the children, a supersized chessboard and Thomas Heatherwick's Spun chairs were added to the yard, creating whimsical and engaging elements. Despite the playful additions, Behun maintained a refined aesthetic by anchoring the interiors in neutral tones, luxurious materials, and stained white oak. The living room features a modular Francesco Binfaré sofa, complemented by brass and stone furnishings. The master bedroom, designed with a 1970s chalet-by-the-sea ambiance, incorporates fuzzy wool carpet, a vintage ribbon-like chair, and a channel-tufted headboard. Reading nooks and a library were also key considerations, reflecting the homeowner's profession as a novelist. The home's central, double-height library serves as a family gathering space, complete with Vladimir Kagan sofas. A shared "bunkroom" for the children includes capsule-like beds and cozy wall nooks for reading. A less conventional request, a bowling alley in the basement, was designed by Behun with inspiration from French artist Jean Dubuffet, featuring a graphic black-and-white pattern on Élitis wallpaper, creating a perception-bending effect. The finished home successfully provides a fun-filled, non-electronic environment for the family and their children's friends. #HamptonsDesign #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #KellyBehun #LuxuryHomes #LandscapeDesign #ArtisticInteriors #CustomFurniture #FamilyHome

Katie and Jesse Kath, known for their design-build firm Jkath Design Build + Reinvent, embarked on an unexpected journey to construct their "forever home" in Minneapolis. Initially aiming for a renovation, their three-year search for the perfect property led them to pivot when Jesse discovered a wide lot with a small, old house for sale. Despite being unprepared, their offer was accepted, pushing them into the realm of new construction. The couple envisioned a modern Tudor that would accommodate their family of five in its current stage and seamlessly transition to a comfortable space for just the two of them in the future. Katie, who leads the company's interior design, emphasized thoughtful space utilization and an aesthetic that would endure. The resulting 4,000-square-foot home blends traditional and open-concept areas, featuring a formal dining room alongside a casual kitchen and living room. The living room is intentionally modest in size, designed for conversation rather than large-scale entertainment, allowing the saved square footage to be allocated to a highly desired sunroom. This sunroom, a favorite feature for the couple, boasts stackable vinyl windows that transform it into a screened porch, creating a versatile indoor-outdoor experience. Upstairs, an office provides future work-from-home flexibility, and most of the children's bedrooms include private bathrooms, a long-term luxury for when the children visit as adults. Katie's design approach leans towards sophistication, with a notable use of dark-stained, furniture-like built-ins crafted by Jesse or his cabinet shop team. These bespoke elements contribute to the home's unique character. Practicality is also a key aspect of the design; for instance, the pantry, equipped with a grab-and-go beverage fridge, a water bottle-filling faucet, and a built-in wall oven, has become a family favorite. The 10-foot-long quartz island in the kitchen provides ample seating and display space, while the living room features a cast-stone fireplace and a picture window designed to maximize future landscape views. The home incorporates several custom and functional details. The banquette area includes an alder wood bench built by Jesse, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Oversized mercury glass pendants in the kitchen serve as a focal point. The pass-through pantry's storage cabinet is designed to resemble an antique heirloom, with reeded glass sliding doors for both aesthetics and functionality. The mudroom, a top request from their clients, features five integrated lockers behind massive built-in cabinet doors, along with a dedicated pet storage area for their dog, Otis. The powder room, designed around a classic floral trellis wallpaper, showcases details like crown molding and baseboards painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx and polished nickel finishes. Further design highlights include the primary bath with natural stone tiles, a marble floor, and a custom alder vanity built by Jesse. The primary bedroom features a built-in display and storage unit in a previously dead corner, and the room is strategically placed for privacy. The upstairs laundry room, a welcome change for Katie, boasts hexagonal marble tile flooring and blue-gray cabinetry, creating a bright and functional space. A hall bath combines vintage charm with modern elements through unique tile flooring, a V-groove panel vanity, playful wallpaper, and sleek black accents. Charlie's bedroom incorporates antique elm as a feature wall, demonstrating a blend of character and practical application for client showcases. The exterior, a modern Tudor style, harmonizes with the established neighborhood, featuring oversize James Hardie panel siding, a metal and shingled roof, and black windows, with landscaping by Exterior Design Studio. The floor plan, initially sketched by Katie and Jesse, thoughtfully positions traditional spaces at the front and casual areas at the back, with a finished basement adding significant living space. This home epitomizes Jkath Design Build + Reinvent's philosophy of smart space utilization and timeless design. #HomeDesign #NewConstruction #ModernTudor #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FamilyHome #MinneapolisRealEstate #JkathDesignBuild #SustainableDesign

Danielle Kalish, a 37-year-old entrepreneur with a background in fashion merchandising and marketing communications, has fulfilled her lifelong dream of opening a retail store. Her new home decor and accessories shop, Abode by Parklyn Interiors, recently opened in the DeMun neighborhood of Clayton. The store aims to introduce new brands to customers and provide a physical space where they can interact with products before purchasing. Kalish's vision for Abode is clear, though her journey to establishing the venture was indirect. She graduated from Southeast Missouri State in 2010 and has since worked at Caleres (formerly Brown Shoe), where she holds the position of senior design director. Beyond her career in fashion, Kalish has a deep passion for interior design. Her husband, Powell Kalish, a 39-year-old commercial real estate broker, frequently purchases, renovates, and sells houses. Over the years, the couple has lived in five such homes, with Danielle taking the lead on their decor and design. This personal experience led to friends and family seeking her help with their own design projects. The pivotal moment arrived in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, when reduced work travel provided her with the time and clarity to focus on her interior design interests. This period led to the official launch of Parklyn Interiors in the fall of 2020, with her first client being a friend who needed assistance remodeling her inherited, decades-old grandmother's house. Kalish describes her design philosophy as classic and timeless, always incorporating a unique or 'funky' element to personalize a space. This aesthetic is directly reflected in Abode's diverse inventory, which blends modern pieces with antique finds, and features a mix of vibrant colors and neutral palettes. Examples of the shop's offerings include a splatter vase by Sharland England, antique bookends depicting President Abraham Lincoln, block-print pillows, blankets from Australia-based Raine & Humble, vintage Ethan Allen table lamps, coaster sets, and a selection of vintage art. Kalish has ensured that the shop maintains accessible price points, with items like pillows at $75, blankets at $70, lamps at $120, and art starting at $200. The atmosphere is intentionally welcoming, designed to be less intimidating than a traditional designer showroom. The 800-square-foot shop itself is meticulously designed to create a homey feel. It features a botanical mural by Rebel Walls on the back wall, while the other walls are painted in Farrow and Ball's Shaded White. An Old English-style wood table serves as both a display area and a checkout counter. Vintage furniture, such as a dresser, and a large brass mirror further enhance the inviting ambiance. The lighting has been upgraded with a classic sconce from Ralph Lauren Home and a rattan pendant from Crate and Barrel. The selection of these elements contributes to a cohesive and appealing retail environment. Kalish was drawn to the storefront's charming appearance and its prime location in the DeMun District, which is conveniently close to her University City home, allowing her to walk to work. This area holds sentimental value for her; she lived on Alamo in DeMun after college, and her first date with her husband was at Jimmy's on the Park, a place they still visit for celebrations. The discovery of the vacant space happened serendipitously when the couple was celebrating their new retail vendor's license at Sasha's and noticed a sign indicating the previous tenant, Dot Dot Dash, had moved. Powell Kalish promptly contacted the building's broker, and within a month, they secured the lease for 736 DeMun. Currently, Kalish is balancing the demands of her new small business with her full-time role at Caleres. Her hope for Abode by Parklyn Interiors is that it becomes a destination for both designers and general shoppers, encouraging them to linger and enjoy the retail experience rather than feeling rushed. The establishment of Abode by Parklyn Interiors adds a unique home decor shopping option to the Clayton area, reflecting Kalish's personal style and dedication to creating an accessible and inspiring space for customers. #HomeDecor #Retail #InteriorDesign #ClaytonMissouri #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #DeMunNeighborhood #FashionBackground

Los Angeles architecture studio CHA:COL undertook the renovation of an apartment for a novelist and game designer, transforming a previously cluttered space into a functional live-work loft. Located in LA's Arts District, the project aimed to create a serene and inspiring environment for the creative couple, moving away from the apartment's former ornate and theatrical aesthetic. The renovation involved a significant simplification of the interior, strategically dividing the space to accommodate both private living areas and a combined kitchen, lounge, and study space. Upon entering the apartment, a clear division was established, with a private area partitioned to the right of the threshold. The main living space, encompassing the kitchen, lounge, and study, is situated at the end of the entry hallway. This layout was designed to optimize functionality and flow for the occupants. During the renovation process, existing structural elements such as heavy timber posts and ceiling beams were exposed, contributing warmth and character to the otherwise bright and minimalist interior. These wooden elements contrast with white-washed walls, light-colored flooring, and the glossy finishes of integrated furniture, creating a balanced and visually appealing environment. Large windows further enhance the brightness of the space, allowing ample natural light to permeate the loft. Custom-made millwork plays a crucial role in defining the various zones within the open-plan area. A bespoke kitchen unit marks the entrance to the combined living space, while another distinct furniture installation separates the lounge from the dedicated work area. This latter installation, known as "the writer's block," was conceived as a double-sided object, serving to clearly delineate the different functions of the space. One side of the writer's block is designed for more public and social activities, such as entertainment, while the other, more private side, functions as a dedicated writer's desk. CHA:COL principal Apurva Pande emphasized that the studio aimed for the space to be both motivating for creative pursuits and suitable for the clients' daily living habits. Adding a whimsical and inspirational element, a large geometric graphic was applied to the wall facing the lounge area. This intricate pattern extends onto the grey carpet in the form of striations. Where these lines intersect with the writer's block, they seamlessly integrate into three sections of the furniture piece, shaping niches and influencing the angles of the shelving units. Both the color palette and the overall design layout draw inspiration from the popular smartphone puzzle game, Monument Valley. This game is renowned among creatives for its impossible architectural mazes and vibrant, stylized graphics. According to Pande, Monument Valley's unique ability to transform two-dimensional shapes and lines into a surreal three-dimensional landscape resonated with the design team and the clients, given their backgrounds in gaming and animation. The concept of the game, where the central character, Ida, navigates tilted planes and angular walls, directly influenced the design of the loft. The architects envisioned the clients moving through the central creative area into the lounge in a similar fashion, translating the game's interplay between 2D and 3D into the physical space. Despite the modern transformation, subtle nods to the apartment's past remain, with gargoyles from the original interior painted over, adding a humorous juxtaposition to what CHA:COL now refers to as a "compact, urban oasis." The project highlights a contemporary approach to residential design, where personal interests and professional needs of clients are deeply integrated into the architectural and interior solutions. By drawing inspiration from unexpected sources like video games, CHA:COL created a unique and personalized living and working environment that fosters creativity and provides a retreat from urban life. This renovation serves as an example of how bespoke design and thoughtful space planning can transform an existing apartment into a highly functional and aesthetically engaging live-work studio for creative professionals. The integration of custom millwork, geometric graphics, and a thematic inspiration from a popular game demonstrates a holistic approach to interior design that goes beyond mere aesthetics to enhance the occupants' lifestyle and work productivity. The blend of exposed structural elements with modern finishes and personalized decor creates a distinctive character for the loft, balancing warmth with contemporary style. #ApartmentRenovation #LiveWorkLoft #CustomMillwork #GeometricGraffiti #MonumentValleyInspired #LosAngelesArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CreativeSpace #ResidentialDesign

This article highlights the transformation of a derelict 1930s farmer’s cottage in Perthshire, Scotland, into a contemporary four-bedroom family home named 'Black and Stone.' The London-based architecture studio Mallett spearheaded the renovation, focusing on preserving the original structure's heritage while integrating modern living standards and sustainable design principles. The project, situated in a region known as 'Big Tree Country' for its extensive woodlands, presented a unique challenge due to the cottage's abandoned and fragile state. Mallett's design director, Simon Dickson, expressed a strong desire to save as much of the existing ruined cottage as possible, recognizing its careful stone details and beautiful aspects. He noted that the original house was exceptionally well-designed for a farm cottage, and the goal was to respect its inherent beauty while adapting it for contemporary needs, including greater space and sustainable features. This approach was chosen despite the fact that a complete demolition and rebuild might have been considered a more straightforward option. To achieve this delicate balance between conservation and innovation, the architecture firm collaborated extensively with the client, who was a structural engineer, local authorities, and a team of skilled craftspeople. This collaborative effort was crucial in navigating the complexities of renovating a fragile historic building. The project prioritized the use of locally sourced materials and traditional building techniques, further rooting the new design in its Scottish environment. The design drew inspiration from Norwegian 'hytte' architecture, characterized by simple, traditional Nordic cabins. Mallett developed a modern interpretation of rural living by constructing a timber-framed structure within the existing stone shell of the cottage. This innovative method allowed for the preservation of the exterior while creating a robust and modern interior. One of the significant challenges involved maintaining the historical character of the site, particularly given the extensive changes required for internal walls, door and window openings, and roof connections. Dickson described this as a 'real challenge' that ultimately shaped the final building, underscoring the firm's commitment to the conservation aspect of the project. The exterior features a dark larch-wood façade, which provides a striking visual contrast to the original light stonework of the cottage. In the interior, great care was taken to reuse existing materials. Stones salvaged from the original structure were meticulously cleaned and sorted by hand to create an internal feature wall in the kitchen, blending the old with the new. The ground floor windows are strategically positioned within the original openings, slightly higher than usual, to frame the dramatic Scottish landscape like a 'massive picture frame.' This detail, particularly appreciated by Dickson, enhances the connection between the indoor spaces and the surrounding natural environment, especially as soft lights illuminate the stone from outside at dusk, bringing the old building to life. The interior aesthetic is defined by a textural palette of timber, stone, and white walls, complemented by black accents and micro-cement flooring. This combination creates a soothing and grounding atmosphere designed to feel spacious. The original three-room cottage was expanded into a generous four-bedroom house, a transformation that Dickson considers a success. He hopes that visitors will be struck by the sense of generosity and the blend of new and old elements, along with the stunning views, upon entering the home. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #HistoricPreservation #SustainableDesign #ScottishArchitecture #CottageRenovation #MallettStudio #ModernCraftsmanship #RuralLiving

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