Tour a Mid-Century Hacienda Filled with Modern Charm

This article highlights the transformation of a Montecito estate by designer Christina Rottman, showcasing how it blends old-world charm with modern ease. The property, located between mountains and the Pacific Ocean in Southern California, captivates with its natural beauty and serves as a significant source of inspiration. The homeowners, having relocated from Colorado and previously the East Coast, were drawn to the house's unique connection to its surroundings, feeling suspended over the ocean and deeply connected to the earth. The original architecture, designed in 1992 by Bob Easton, is characterized by clear lines, large rooms, and a sensitivity to the landscape, reminiscent of Mexican modernist Luis Barragán. Rottman's design approach focused on creating a sophisticated yet family-friendly interior that avoids the coldness often associated with modernism. To achieve this, she incorporated ample texture and layers, moving away from the home’s initial Southwestern-influenced, rustic aesthetic. Key renovations included plastering over tongue-and-groove ceilings and built-in shelves to accommodate sleek lighting and contemporary art. Soaring steel-cased windows were adorned with linen sheers and silk or embroidered curtains, adding softness and elegance. In the dining room, Rottman introduced warmth with reclaimed wood siding from an old Santa Barbara barn, complemented by a geometric Hubert Le Gall pendant and a Jonathan Saiz wave painting. The kitchen cabinets were striéd in shades of turquoise and charcoal, bringing depth and color, with blue being a recurring motif inspired by the homeowners’ preferences. The furnishings throughout the house exhibit a 1940s French flair, combining vintage and new pieces with linear silhouettes and tactile fabrics. This selection harmonizes with the architecture’s angular grace, creating a comfortable and soothing atmosphere. The master suite features custom elements such as a canopy with C&C Milano fabrics and Kenneth Meyer trim, a Vaughan fabric headboard, and a vintage Syrian dresser. The bath includes Lefroy Brooks sink fittings, Urban Electric Co. sconces, Hansgrohe shower fittings, and Ann Sacks tiles. The hall showcases studded Jerry Pair leather closet doors and a Mansour rug, while the entry features a custom lantern, sconces, and walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s White Dove. Douglas Hoerr’s landscape design seamlessly extends the home’s living space, incorporating a cactus garden and various outdoor areas. The courtyard includes custom armchairs in Perennials fabric. The outdoor dining room is furnished with a custom table, vintage Maison K pendants, and Roost chairs in Perennials fabric, while the pool area features a Tuuci umbrella. The overall design successfully marries the dramatic natural setting with refined interiors, embodying the client's desire for an elegant yet comfortable home. The project reflects Barragán's philosophy that architecture should express serenity, a quality evident throughout the Montecito estate. #MontecitoEstate #ChristinaRottman #LuxuryDesign #CaliforniaHome #InteriorDesign #ModernTraditional #BobEastonArchitecture #CoastalLiving #LandscapeDesign

In Old Havana, a boutique hotel known as A|S Residence offers an intimate lodging experience, blending contemporary design with historical elements. The project is the result of a two-year restoration by Havana-born dancer and musician Sandy Solano Diahave and Dutch fashion designer and artist André Visser. The hotel, formerly a baroque 19th-century mansion, is situated in a city recognized for its diverse architectural heritage, encompassing Spanish colonial, Art Deco, and 1950s styles, many of which face challenges from environmental factors and economic conditions, despite their UNESCO protection. The A|S Residence comprises five suites and four junior suites. The restoration aimed to maintain the original character of the building while integrating modern design. This approach is evident in the preservation of architectural features such as towering five-meter-high ceilings, exposed brickwork, stripped doors, and woodwork. Original elements like carved columns, intricate ironwork, Carrara marble, and handmade floor tiles were meticulously conserved and serve as a foundation for the interior design choices. The interiors are curated with a mix of influences. Rooms feature Italian lighting and are adorned with Cuban art alongside Visser’s abstract canvases. The furniture selection includes modernist pieces, such as Barcelona lounge chairs, complemented by items crafted by local artisans. The blend of European and Cuban design sensibilities creates a distinctive atmosphere within the residence. Beyond accommodation, A|S Residence engages with the local community through its ground-floor establishment, HAV Coffee. This space functions as both a cafe, serving Cuban coffee and brunch, and an art gallery, showcasing works by emerging local and international artists. The hotel also boasts a rooftop terrace that offers views of Havana. This area is available for activities like yoga sessions and dance classes, and it also serves as a tranquil spot for guests to relax with a drink after exploring nearby attractions. The hotel's capacity is limited to ten guests, and it enforces a policy of no children under 16, contributing to its quiet and exclusive ambiance. The location of A|S Residence provides convenient access to significant landmarks and vibrant streets in Old Havana, including Obispo and Mercaderes Streets, Belém Convent, Plaza Belém, the Capitolio, the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, and the Gran Teatro de La Habana. The thoughtful restoration and design of A|S Residence contribute to the preservation of Havana’s architectural legacy while introducing a contemporary hospitality experience. #HavanaHotels #BoutiqueHotel #CubanDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #OldHavana #InteriorDesign #ArtAndCulture #TravelCuba

This article details the transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in Philadelphia's Main Line suburbs into a modern family home with transitional design elements. The property, untouched for over a decade, was in a state of disrepair with failing windows and siding, an untreated cedar roof, a caving patio, and outdated interiors described as 'screaming late 90s'. The renovation was undertaken by PS & Daughters, led by founder Phoebe Schuh, who was drawn to the historical character of the house despite its challenges. The clients, a blended family with a wide age range of children, sought a home that honored its architecture while supporting a modern lifestyle. They also possessed a world-class art collection that needed to be integrated into the design. The primary objective was to create a transitional home, blending the best of old and new to achieve a relaxed elegance and comfort, without being overly precious, while incorporating sumptuous velvets, mixed patterns, and layered textures. The extensive remodel resulted in a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family residence equipped with contemporary amenities such as a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and games room. Throughout the house, custom-made modern pieces are seamlessly combined with vintage finds, ensuring a balance between historical nods and modern functionality. One of the favorite spaces for the designer was the master bathroom, reimagined as a luxurious wet room clad in Calcutta marble. The design incorporated a client's specific request for a window in the shower, leading to a massive shower area, a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab bench, and intricate mosaics on the ceiling, all complemented by brass fixtures. For the children, a vibrant and functional playroom was designed. It features a jungle gym, an oversized jewel-toned mural depicting dreamy mountain tops, and a custom-built arched reading nook, catering to various age groups from teens to toddlers. The project encountered significant construction challenges, including failed stucco on the backside of the house. This was resolved by removing the stucco, properly sealing the home, and installing a new exterior elevation with bright white siding, a stone veneer foundation, a limestone patio, a glass railing, and a mahogany handrail. A unique, last-minute challenge involved rerouting a direct hot water line from the heater to the master suite shower to address a client's concern about water temperature, showcasing the team's commitment to client satisfaction. Ultimately, the farmhouse was transformed from a neglected historic property into a contemporary family haven, characterized by bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, all while maintaining a respectful connection to its original architectural style. The project exemplifies transitional design, achieving a sophisticated yet comfortable aesthetic for modern family living. #TransitionalFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ModernAmenities #CustomDesign

This article showcases a three-bedroom, five-bathroom house, complete with a casita, in Indian Wells, designed by Aimee Meisgeier of AM Interior Design. The project successfully blends traditional Hacienda-style architecture with contemporary elements, fulfilling the clients' desire for a home that incorporates color and distinctive patterns while maintaining a fresh, modern feel. The retired couple, who spend seasons in the desert, sought a design that was rustic, traditional, and contemporary. Meisgeier's approach involved integrating architectural features reminiscent of Spanish Colonial Revival homes, alongside colors and patterns inspired by traditional Talavera tiles. The design process began by understanding the clients' preferences for tile patterns, colors, wallpaper, lighting, and custom furniture. Key design interventions include the addition of vintage wood ceiling beams in the entryway, living room, and dining room, which introduce texture and a rustic aesthetic. To foster an indoor-outdoor living experience, Fleetwood slide systems were installed throughout the house, complemented by wide rustic French oak wood floors that add warmth. The living room's fireplace wall was remodeled to feature a larger firebox, better suiting the room's scale. Its surround is clad in a 3D concrete tile with a compass star pattern, providing dimension, while built-ins are wrapped in vintage-finished oak. A custom lime wash finish was applied to the walls throughout the property, and the wet bar incorporates traditional Hacienda-style patterned tile. In the kitchen, the opening between the great room and kitchen was enlarged to improve circulation. The cabinets received a vintage oak finish, and new appliances and materials were introduced. A significant feature is the 11-foot marble island, capable of seating six guests. A dedicated breakfast nook was created, featuring custom green built-ins that infuse color into the space. The primary bathroom continues the indoor-outdoor theme with a Fleetwood slide system, integrating the exterior environment. It also boasts a marble slab shower, a custom double vanity, and a makeup vanity. The vibrant Zellige and custom floor tiles, designed in a traditional Hacienda-style pattern, contribute additional color and character to the bathroom. The overall design achieves a balanced fusion of traditional Hacienda elements with contemporary touches, resulting in a home that the owners appreciate for its traditional feel and innovative, fresh design. #HaciendaStyle #ModernDesign #IndianWellsHome #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #TraditionalContemporaryBlend #SpanishColonialRevival #IndoorOutdoorLiving

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

The property, known as Casa Las Palmas, is located at Sollano 81, Centro, in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and is listed for $3.99 million. This tranquil compound in the historic city center is situated near Benito Juarez Park, a landmark green space. The home, dating back to the late 1990s, was personally designed by its former owner, Dolores Gazzotti, who incorporated a unique blend of European, Art Deco, Asian, and Mexican Colonial styles. The design elements include arched doors, decorative panels, and shutters, alongside imported artworks and furnishings from Italy that are still present in the house. The exterior of Casa Las Palmas features a red ochre facade, which harmonizes with the traditional colors prevalent in San Miguel. The property emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, with a main level built around a garden area characterized by graceful arches on stone pedestals. Most rooms on this level have doors that open to the outside, facilitating an integrated living experience suitable for entertaining or relaxation. The interior showcases a rich mix of design influences; the entryway and living room, for example, feature Asian-themed accents such as crane sculptures, murals, and large vases. Accommodation on the primary level includes two bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom adorned with distinctive tile motifs. One bathroom boasts glittering blue mosaic columns, while another features intricately patterned green tiles, both reflecting an opulent aesthetic. The property also contains an apartment with a separate entrance on the second level, offering two additional bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom, continuing the theme of unique tile work and Art Deco inspiration. Furthermore, an unfinished casita on the property presents an opportunity for a separate dwelling or an expansion of the main house. The Centro neighborhood, where the home is located, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its 16th- to 18th-century architectural style and historical significance. Benito Juarez Park, often referred to as San Miguel’s “outdoor living room,” was developed in the early 20th century with a French garden style, featuring tailored greenery, fountains, wrought-iron benches, and winding trails. The more prominent central plaza, El Jardin, surrounded by historic buildings, is also nearby. San Miguel de Allende has a rich history, transitioning from a 16th-century Spanish outpost and silver mining center to a 19th-century independence movement birthplace, and later a hub for artists and artisans in the early 20th century. Today, it stands as a premier travel destination, attracting affluent individuals seeking unique second homes like Casa Las Palmas. Vanessa Garay of CDR San Miguel is the listing agent for this property, which is offered at $3.99 million and includes some of its furnishings and artwork. #LuxuryRealEstate #SanMiguelDeAllende #HistoricHomes #MexicanColonialDesign #EclecticInteriors #IndoorOutdoorLiving #UNESCOWorldHeritage #ArtDecoInfluence #GardenProperty

The Kaufman House, a historical landmark in Zelienople, Pennsylvania, originally built in 1902, has undergone a significant restoration after being severely damaged by a fire in 2011. This 121-year-old building, which served as a hotel, factory worker housing, and an iconic tavern, was a vital rest stop for travelers and a community focal point. After the fire, the building remained closed until 2020, facing potential demolition. However, the Zelienople Borough recognized its cultural and economic importance, purchasing it in 2017 with a state Redevelopment Assistance Capital Grant to ensure its preservation. The restoration project aimed to maintain the building's original aesthetic, particularly concerning its windows. James Druschel, former vice president of finance and CFO of Veka, played a crucial role by initiating the project and facilitating the donation of window profiles from Veka Inc. Wincore Windows contributed by charging only for labor, glass, and hardware. The choice was made to use residential windows, specifically the 7700 Series from Veka, to replicate the original single-hung, wood windows. These included double-hung, fixed, and awning glass windows, with picture windows on the street level and double-hung windows on the upper floors. The 7700 Series is an LC-rated product, deemed suitable for the project. Technical specifications include white interior and exterior frames and low-e argon insulated glass with a 0.29 U-value, totaling 51 double-hungs, 30 fixed, and 3 awning windows. Beyond windows, the restoration also involved reinforcing the Main Street-facing balcony on the second floor with beams and updating it with VEKAdeck in Signature Storm color and white Veka rails, with the contractor receiving a reduced price for these materials. The rehabilitation proved more extensive than initially anticipated, as structural deficiencies were progressively discovered. Many previous repairs had overlooked structural integrity, leading to a situation where 60 percent of the building's structural integrity was found to be compromised and required replacement. The interior was gutted, re-walled, rewired, and re-plumbed, essentially rebuilt to meet modern codes. In its reimagined state, the Kaufman House now serves multiple purposes. The ground floor has been re-established as a restaurant, coffee shop, and bar. The second floor features a banquet hall, retail and office spaces, and meeting rooms. The third floor accommodates the regional office of a marketing firm. The basement is designed to host entrepreneurs offering complementary products to the restaurant. To ensure compliance with local codes, an elevator and a new stairwell were installed. Looking ahead, the building is also slated to function as a boutique hotel and a training facility for the tourism, culinary arts, and hospitality industries, further cementing its role as a revitalized community asset. #HistoricPreservation #BuildingRestoration #ArchitecturalDesign #WindowRenovation #KaufmanHouse #CommunityRevitalization #VekaWindows #WincoreWindows #ZelienoplePennsylvania

Scallop Path, a nearly 7.5-acre private island property in Cape Cod, is currently listed for $19.8 million. This historic estate, once owned by the renowned designer and horticulturalist Bunny Mellon, offers panoramic water views and meticulously designed gardens. The property comprises a 17th-century main house spanning 5,894 square feet and a guest house constructed by the Mellon family in the 1970s. Thomas Lloyd, Mellon's grandson, is the current seller and has overseen recent renovations, including window and roof updates, and the addition of a new living room window to enhance waterfront vistas. The main house, believed to date back to 1680, was historically moved from mainland Cape Cod to Oyster Harbors, a private island. It features seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, along with distinctive architectural details and hidden passageways that reflect its Colonial American origins, potentially serving as a hiding place during King Philip's War. The Mellon family undertook a sensitive restoration of the property in the 1970s, balancing historical preservation with modern enhancements. Notable interior features include pumpkin pine floors installed by Bunny Mellon and original wood beams. The property's gardens are a key highlight, meticulously designed and cultivated by Bunny Mellon, who was also responsible for redesigning the White House Rose Garden. These lush gardens feature a variety of flowers, herbs, and vegetables, showcasing Mellon's horticultural expertise. To ensure their long-term preservation, Lloyd has collaborated with a local landscaping firm to install an irrigation system and replace annual plants with perennials, making maintenance easier for future owners. In addition to the main residence, the estate includes a guest house with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and laundry facilities. Other structures on the property include a charming wood shed, a boathouse, and a garage, all maintaining historic architectural elements. The property's strategic location provides 270-degree views of Nantucket Sound and Martha's Vineyard, with every room in the main house offering a glimpse of the scenic surroundings. For potential buyers interested in further customization, architect Patrick Ahearn has developed a video showcasing possibilities for transforming Scallop Path. Ahearn's vision includes preserving the original main house as a secondary living space by moving it, allowing for the construction of a new custom home on its current site. This approach aims to honor the property's historical legacy while accommodating contemporary needs. Interested parties can contact Zenas Crocker for more details on this unique and historically significant Cape Cod estate. #HistoricHome #CapeCod #LuxuryRealEstate #BunnyMellon #GardenDesign #ColonialArchitecture #WaterfrontProperty #InteriorDesign #EstateSale

Fashion consultant Michael Carey, known for his work with menswear brands like Ralph Lauren and Hackett London, has channeled his visual storytelling expertise into renovating an 1830 Federal house in Claverack, New York. Carey, who spent nearly a decade in London, had been collecting antique furniture and artworks with the vision of furnishing his future country home, famously stating, "Buy for it, and it will come." His search for a historic property led him to the modest wood-frame house in the Hudson Valley. Despite his real estate agent initially calling it a "dump," Carey was drawn to its structural soundness, period details such as original windows and doors, wide-board flooring, and five working fireplaces, all set on a property shaded by a mature copper beech tree. He recognized the architectural integrity and history embedded in the home, situated in a town founded in 1788 and surrounded by stately Georgian mansions. Upon closing on the property, Carey immediately began exterior landscaping, clearing pines and planting a hornbeam hedge. In the spring of 2012, he commenced renovations, making monthly trips from London to oversee the project. His approach was to honor the house's original "bones" rather than drastically reinvent it, adding architectural details that complemented its historical character. He strategically moved doors and repositioned windows to enhance the home's formal symmetry. The renovation also included modernizing the 1950s-era kitchen on the main floor, adding a back entry hall and a powder room. A sun-filled potting room, which also serves as a laundry room and informal office, was created. One of the downstairs guest rooms is located in the original 19th-century kitchen, complete with its hearth and beehive oven. Throughout the house, every available space was converted into a closet. For the interior aesthetic, Carey adopted a black-and-white color palette, with the kitchen's dove-gray being the only exception, to provide a neutral backdrop that highlights his eclectic collection of furniture and art. His furnishings span various periods, including Georgian, French Deco, and midcentury pieces, alongside unique items like a moose-leg table. His extensive art collection is displayed salon-style on walls in every room, creating a consistent visual narrative. The overall design results in a traditional yet subtly contradictory atmosphere, which Carey describes as a "collage," where individual elements combine to tell a cohesive story, much like his creative process for fashion brands. The transformation has made the historic home brighter and crisper, while respecting its past. #HistoricHome #FederalStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FashionConsultant #HudsonValley #AntiqueFurniture #ArtCollection #BlackAndWhitePalette

Patrón, the premium spirits company, has created a luxury guest house, La Casona Guest House, at its Hacienda Patrón Distillery in Jalisco, Mexico. This exclusive facility serves as a first-hand brand experience for VIPs, media partners, and customers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the history and craft of Patrón tequilas. The guest house integrates art, architecture, local design, and Hispanic heritage, reflecting the brand's creation process. The project was a collaborative effort between Patrón’s architectural department and three local firms: Joaquin Homs Studio for interior design and interior landscaping, GVA architects for general landscape, and Grupo CASGO for construction management. The 20-room guest house, not open to the public, features dining and entertainment areas, a full-service bar, and conference facilities, offering world-class hospitality. Designed in a traditional Spanish Colonial style, La Casona incorporates architectural details from 1800s Spanish, French, and Italian designs to acknowledge their historical influence on Mexico. These traditional elements are seamlessly blended with modern design to achieve a cohesive, updated aesthetic. Joaquin Homs, who was deeply involved in the project, noted the correlation between the historical hacienda economic systems and the labor-intensive tequila distillation process. He emphasized the importance of community involvement, engaging over 2,000 local townspeople in creating almost all interior and exterior design elements. The design team implemented bioclimatic architectural processes to suit the local climate and pay homage to historical hacienda design principles. Features such as 16’ 6” high ceilings and strategically angled windows ensure optimal natural lighting and ventilation. Custom lighting systems compensate for variations in natural light throughout the day. The main building’s statement chandelier, crafted by local artisan Ernesto Cruz, features recycled glass and reclaimed wood with working bees on agave plants, symbolizing the importance of agave bees in tequila production. Other lamps and sconces are handmade from forged iron, metal, copper, hand-blown glass, and ceramic tile by local Mexican artisans. Attention to detail extends to the furnishings and fabrics, which are custom-made. Mattresses are custom-sized, and linens are locally sourced. All furniture is custom-designed, echoing early 1900s Mexican character while being modernized with various textiles. Wallpapers from Italy and France, textiles from Mexico and the U.S., French linens, and sustainable silk and grass fiber wallpapers are used throughout. Peter Leder, Patrón’s head of hospitality operations, highlighted the intention to convey Patrón’s legacy as a modern company rooted in heritage. Sustainability is a key aspect, with features like water recycling, rain absorption and well replenishment, red clay walls for climate and acoustic protection, LED lighting, and the use of cacti and semi-desert vegetation for reduced water consumption. Local materials such as Cantera (limestone), marble, onyx, clay tiles, and red bricks are utilized for their natural, reusable, durable, and biodegradable qualities. La Casona exemplifies a growing trend in design, where modern elements harmonize with old-world styles to create warm, inviting, and livable spaces, making commercial hospitality venues feel more like homes. #SpanishColonialDesign #ModernFlair #GuestHouse #MexicanArchitecture #LuxuryTravel #SustainableDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #BioclimaticArchitecture #InteriorDesign #PatronTequila

This article details the extensive renovation of a Midcentury Modern Ranch home in Mockingbird Park, transformed from an unappealing 2003 purchase into a private, dramatic retreat. The original home, characterized by a pink brick facade, was reimagined with a focus on integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces. The renovation began serendipitously when a roofing contractor, whose wife Jamie Ali is an architect with Demense, was hired to fix leaks. This connection led to a comprehensive overhaul of the three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom residence. A key aspect of the exterior transformation involved replacing the original pink brick with a dark gray facade, which enhances its appeal and maintains privacy from the street. The house features floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides, creating an unimpeded visual connection to an outdoor living space. The interior renovation focused on opening up the space and incorporating new materials. The kitchen, previously separate, was opened to a former office space, enhancing its functionality and flow. Walnut wood was chosen for its warm aesthetic, and hot rolled steel, a cutting-edge material in 2014, was prominently used on the fireplace wall, kitchen island, vent hood, and garage doors, adding a dramatic industrial touch. Structural improvements included removing a boxed-in center beam in the vaulted ceiling, which revealed a solid, straight piece of cedar, a material now rare to find in such dimensions. Personal touches were also integrated into the design, such as blue Kilkenny limestone in the wine closet, a tribute to the homeowner's Irish heritage, inspired by the Irish Hunger Memorial in New York. The kitchen was outfitted with high-end Thermador appliances, including a six-burner gas range with a steam oven and griddle, a built-in drawer microwave, and dual dishwashers. Silestone Yukon quartz countertops and a Glass House glass backsplash complete the contemporary kitchen aesthetic. In the bathrooms, an environmentally friendly composite stone bathtub was installed, and both the primary and guest bathrooms feature heated floors, adding a touch of luxury and comfort. The most significant external transformation occurred at the rear of the property. What was once a simple fence was replaced with concrete and rusted metal walls, and a cantilevered covered pavilion was added. This new outdoor structure includes an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace, and a shower, significantly increasing the usable living space and making the home feel much larger than its 2,760 square feet. The architect noted that the courtyard acts as an extension of the living area, creating an impression of 5,000 square feet of living space. This renovated Midcentury Modern Ranch, located at 5355 Southern Ave., is currently listed for $1.95 million by Michael Mahon of Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate. #MidcenturyModern #RanchRenovation #HomeTransformation #InteriorDesign #ExteriorRedesign #LuxuryRealEstate #DallasHomes #ArchitecturalRenovation #OutdoorLiving

This blog post outlines a detailed architectural tour through the Vinyet and Terramar neighborhoods of Sitges, Spain, highlighting a collection of significant historical buildings. The route commences at Plaza de la Fragata, beneath the Parish Church of La Punta, and proceeds along Passeig de la Ribera, showcasing a series of architecturally distinct houses. The tour begins with "Villa Lola" (Josep Barnet Albareda’s house), a modernist structure from 1907 (rebuilt in 1976), known for its floral ornamentation and curved iron balconies. Next is the Simó Llauradó House (1908, Gaietà Miret), now Hotel Celimar, characterized by its three-story facade adorned with intricate modernist windows. Adjacent is the Casa Francesc Robert i Yarzàbal (1901, Salvador Viñals), notable for its covered, sea-facing balcony. The Isabel Ferret House (1899, Enric Sagnier i Villavecchia) features varied window types across its three floors and an eclectic style, including a wooden and tiled barbican with battlement-like railing. Casa Marina Planas (1908, Gaietà Miret) exhibits modernist floral motifs on window edges and the roof railing. Josep Sunyer House – Villa Candelaria (1920, Josep M. Martino Arroyo) is a Noucentista-style building distinguished by its gallery of round arches and sgraffito ornaments around the windows. Pilar Parellada House (1916, J. Domènech Estapà) is a popular work with a ground floor and two upper floors, decorated with a painted sundial and a protruding tiled cornice. The Gili Casanovas House (1909, Marcelí Coquillat), currently Hotel Santa María, is a modernist building featuring a stone railing with floral ornamentation on window moldings and a curved roof railing. Continuing the route, the Llúcia Catasús Soler House (1915, Josep Graner) exemplifies eclectic style with a Catalan-style terrace, a central relief of Sant Jordi, and a second-floor gallery with round arched windows. Further inland, Casa Ferratges (1910) on Bassa Rodona is a large modernist building with floral decorations on the first-floor lintels. The tour then moves to Avinguda Sofía, featuring grand houses such as Casa Emili Sacanella (1925, Albert Carbó Pompido), a Noucentista design with a tower inspired by traditional Catalan architecture and a sundial. Casa Antoni Ferratges (1928, Josep M. Martino Arroyo), now Hotel Capri, is another notable structure in this area. The architectural exploration extends into the Terramar neighborhood, a garden-city project initiated in 1923 by Josep Armengol i Durán. Most buildings in Terramar were designed by Josep M. Martino and are largely Noucentista in style, characterized by prominent central bodies, sea-facing facades, terraces, and porches. Key examples include Casa Vilella (1919, Joan Rubió i Bellver), now Hotel Casa Vilella, a modernist building reminiscent of Catalan “masías” with a raised ground floor and arched galleries. Casa Francesc Armengol, Villa Florentina (1919, Josep Renom i Costa), comprises juxtaposed volumes, a steep glazed-tile roof, and Noucentista friezes. Casa Sansalvador (1923, Josep M. Martino Arroyo) features multiple volumes crowned with balustrades, a tower with a sgraffito sundial, and a porticoed front porch. La Reserva (1924, Josep M. Martino Arroyo) is a neoclassical residence with a portico tower, ionic columns, and a balustraded terrace. Finally, Casa Josep Freixa (1919, Josep M. Martino Arroyo) is a classic Noucentisme example with a pediment, cornice, and floral designs and carved vases above the entrance, supported by Ionic columns. The route concludes with the Terramar Park, designed by Miquel Utrillo, which includes a tree-lined path and a central pond, as well as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Vinyet. This 18th-century neoclassical sanctuary, modified over centuries, is known for its single nave, ten richly decorated Baroque side chapels, and a bell tower from 1872. It holds significant cultural and religious importance to the people of Sitges, particularly sailors, with its interior adorned with ex-voto model ships. #SitgesTourism #ArchitecturalTour #VinyetNeighborhood #TerramarNeighborhood #ModernistArchitecture #NoucentistaStyle #HistoricalBuildings #CatalanArchitecture #CulturalHeritage #JosepMartinoArroyo

This article highlights the extensive customization and sophisticated interior design of a 22,000-square-foot estate in Orem, Utah, for a family of eight. The home, designed by Alice Lane Home Collection with Jessica Bennett as the principal designer, blends a Hamptons-inspired exterior with a transitional contemporary interior. The exterior features white trim, copper gutters, chimney pots, and natural gray-stained cedar shakes, reflecting a coastal aesthetic despite its Utah Lake location. Upon entering the residence through white oak front doors, the interior design immediately showcases meticulous attention to detail. A key inspiration for the homeowner was his aunt's black and white checkered entry, which symbolized sophistication to him. The design team honored this sentiment by creating a custom black and white marble pattern for the entry flooring, introducing a contemporary touch while retaining the classic elegance. A peacock-colored roped stool provides a vibrant accent, linking the interior with a subtle coastal theme. This black and white motif, established in the entry, was intentionally woven throughout the entire home's color scheme. An adjacent powder room, for example, is entirely clad in black with gilded accents, including a glass fringe chandelier by Suzanne Kasler, and black and bronze Lily wallpaper from Cole & Sons, which Bennett playfully compares to a pocket square. The kitchen and formal living room, along with the master suite on its own half-floor, demonstrate thoughtful architecture and design. The airy, open-plan kitchen features marble and Caesarstone-clad double islands, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Pendant fixtures by Thomas O'Brien for Visual Comfort add a golden touch to the practical space, catering to a household with six children and two adults. Bennett credits Think Architecture from Salt Lake City for the home's comprehensive architectural planning, including the integration of an elevator. She emphasizes that while the architecture provides a strong foundation, the carefully selected furnishings truly define the home's unique style, elevating it beyond typical American expectations. Other notable areas include a bright breakfast nook with a three-tiered Walt chandelier from Oly Studio, resembling an inverted wedding cake. The dining room is anchored by a custom zebrawood table capable of seating fourteen, complemented by a silver-leafed barrel-vault ceiling and burnished silver leaf pendants by Aerin Lauder. Dining chairs by Thom Filicia are upholstered with luxurious velvet backs and practical leather seats. A second powder room features glass and mother-of-pearl tile from Oceanside Glasstile and geometric stone flooring, with coastal sisal wallpaper from Thibaut adding warmth. The home also includes a dedicated room for a grand piano, situated within a turret-style architectural element, featuring a Petite Pentagone chandelier by Jonathan Browning to add a modern edge. The master bedroom incorporates a mohair headboard in lavender, a color chosen to be both masculine and regal, alongside a Kedan stool by Oly Studio. The master bathroom boasts a freestanding tub on a marble platform, illuminated by a Ralph Lauren chandelier and a mirror with smoked-glass trim from Arteriors. A home office within the master suite maximizes space with a his-and-hers desk, purple-upholstered chairs, a two-sided fireplace, and grasscloth wallcovering on the ceilings for a cozy atmosphere. The downstairs snack bar is equipped with smoke stack-inspired hood ranges, offering nostalgic treats. These details collectively create a luxurious and personalized living space. #HomeDesign #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #OremUtah #CoastalContemporary #AliceLaneHomeCollection #DreamHouse #TransitionalDesign

The 'Optimism' project showcases interior designer Jake Arnold's approach to transforming a one-story, mid-century Californian ranch designed by architect Gerard Colcord. Arnold was entrusted by his clients to locate a home with character, leading him to this property in Beverly Hills, distinguished by Colcord’s classic architectural elements such as colonnaded porches, large paneled windows, and pitched roofs. The residence offers expansive canyon views. Arnold's renovation involved stripping back an unsympathetic interior, meticulously refurbishing original wooden floors, reinstating paneling, and gradually layering decorative elements. His color strategy was informed by the clients' preference for neutral palettes, yet he introduced bolder, tonal hues that resonate with the natural surroundings. Arnold's design philosophy incorporates historical prints from renowned brands like Fortuny, Liberty, Ralph Lauren, and Schumacher, which imbue the space with timeless gravitas. These are harmonized with textural plains from de Le Cuona, Holland & Sherry, and Pierre Frey. The curation of old, new, and custom-made pieces is central to the project, reflecting Arnold's commitment to exploring and integrating diverse treasures. The living room is designed to foster relaxed conversation and intimacy, achieving visual impact through scale, materiality, and form. Creative zoning of rooms optimizes flow, enhancing opportunities for entertaining and comfort. Curved, bespoke furniture contributes to a gentle fluidity and intimacy, counterbalancing the linear elements of paneling, bookcases, and angular rooflines. A capacious home office features a bespoke curved sofa upholstered in de Le Cuona velvet, its blue-gray hue mirroring the Farrow & Ball De Nimes shade used throughout the property. Natural materials, including custom-made brass and suede bars, antique rugs, vintage oak and sheepskin chairs, primitive wooden tables, Audoux Minet vintage lights, and Brèche de Vendôme stone flooring, lend a sense of soul and quiet luxury. Arnold emphasizes that great design is about remaining grounded and expressing creativity, believing that a home, regardless of its size, should be a place of comfort and well-being. The home library, painted entirely in mauve, offers an enveloping atmosphere. The kitchen diner pairs a vintage trestle table with mid-century rattan and wood chairs by Charlotte Perriand. A cozy breakfast nook is characterized by a curved corner banquette, designed by Arnold and upholstered in a nostalgic Claremont checked fabric. The dining room, featuring new wall panels that match the original wainscoting and an organically shaped dining table complemented by round chairs, offers stunning views of the outdoor space. In the main bedroom, Farrow & Ball's London Stone paint on walls and ceilings creates a soft, cocooning effect within the vaulted space. The guest bedroom suite, situated among the treetops, harmonizes with its natural environment. The guest bathroom features a tactile rattan mirror and curtaining on the vanity, adding warmth and softness. The project exemplifies Arnold's skill in crafting serene, sophisticated interiors that honor architectural heritage while introducing modern comfort and aesthetic appeal. #JakeArnold #MidCenturyModern #CaliforniaRanch #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #NeutralPalette #CustomFurniture #NaturalMaterials

SHED Architecture & Design undertook a comprehensive restoration of a 1959 ranch house in Seattle, aiming to resurrect its original mid-century charm while integrating modern functionality. The property, upon acquisition by the homeowners, had undergone multiple remodels that had largely erased its historical character. SHED's approach involved stripping the house back to its foundational elements to meticulously revitalize its inherent aesthetic. The project, known as the Madison Park Ranch House, focused on creating a cohesive and timeless design. This was achieved through the careful selection of materials that resonate with the era of the home's origin, coupled with a contemporary open-plan layout. The chosen color palette was also instrumental in honoring the house's history, facilitating a seamless blend between its past and future iterations. This thoughtful combination of elements ensures that the renovated home functions efficiently for modern living without sacrificing its historical integrity. Externally, significant changes were made to the backyard. Previously existing structures were removed to clear space for a new landscaped area. This outdoor living space now features a fire pit, providing a focal point for gatherings, and a lower patio designed for relaxation. An elevated deck, accessible via a set of stairs, extends directly from the kitchen, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Large sliding glass doors were incorporated to further enhance this connection, allowing for easy access and an abundance of natural light to penetrate the interior. The interior renovation saw the kitchen undergo a substantial transformation. A prominent, generously sized island was installed, serving multiple purposes from food preparation and cooking to dining and socializing. To compensate for any potential lack of natural light, a series of skylights were integrated into the kitchen ceiling, effectively illuminating the space. The flooring throughout much of the interior was updated with expressed aggregate concrete tiles, which were deliberately chosen to match the pavers used in the outdoor areas, thereby promoting a visual continuity between the indoor and outdoor environments. Bathroom renovations prioritized a minimalist design philosophy, which not only modernized their appearance but also significantly improved their functional utility. Each aspect of the renovation, from the removal of old structures to the selection of new materials and the strategic placement of design elements, contributed to the overall goal of transforming the 1959 ranch house into a functional, aesthetically pleasing, and historically respectful contemporary home. The project successfully reinstated the home's original character while adapting it to meet the demands of a modern lifestyle. #Architecture #HomeRestoration #MidCenturyModern #RanchHouse #SeattleDesign #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #ModernLiving