This Hong Kong apartment looks like a North American cabin in the woods

Interior designer Aviva Duncan, who has lived in Hong Kong for over 20 years, embraces moving homes and sees it as an opportunity to refresh her living space. She recently relocated from Mid-Levels to a 2,000 sq ft flat in Stanley on Hong Kong Island’s south side, seeking a lifestyle change. The new three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment was in excellent condition, saving Duncan the usual hassle of dealing with unattractive features common in Hong Kong properties. She even provided her landlord with specific paint color preferences to ensure the walls were freshly coated before she moved in. This proactive approach highlights her meticulous attention to detail and dedication to creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment from the outset. Duncan prioritizes investing in durable, versatile furniture pieces, such as her Cassina sofa, which are designed to last and adapt to various living spaces. With each move, she incorporates existing furniture by upcycling it to achieve a new look. For her current home, she reupholstered two club chairs with black-and-white geometric-patterned Gastón y Daniela fabrics and two stools in Jim Thompson leopard-print fabric with fringes. She also designed a large geometric rug to anchor the living area, emphasizing the importance of a sufficiently sized rug for a cohesive look. Duncan advocates for embracing color and pattern in rugs as a way to inject personality and fun into a room, demonstrating her belief in personalized and expressive design. Art plays a significant role in Duncan's design philosophy, where she combines large statement pieces with eclectic gallery walls. She strategically integrates the television into her art display in the living room, avoiding it becoming the main focal point. Her approach to art acquisition is driven by personal connection rather than investment, and she encourages a varied, personal collection that is not constrained by a single color, theme, or size. This reflects her belief that art should be an extension of one's identity and adapt to different living environments. Her new flat also includes a dedicated home office space, reflecting the increasing demand for functional work-from-home solutions, and emphasizes the importance of comfortable and beautiful surroundings for virtual meetings. The flat’s spacious roof terrace was a major draw. Initially neglected by previous tenants, Duncan revitalized the outdoor space by clearing debris, adding vibrant plants from the Prince Edward Flower Market, and refreshing existing sofas with new cushions. This transformation created an inviting area for dining, reading, and gardening, aligning with her desire for a home that encourages relaxation and entertaining. The article provides a detailed inventory of furniture and art pieces in various rooms, including the living room, dining area, office, main bedroom, and roof terrace, showcasing items from designers and brands such as Cassina, Altfield, Jim Thompson, Manks, La DoubleJ, Tom Dixon, Astier de Villatte, Oluce, &Tradition, and Artemide. These specific mentions offer readers a glimpse into her curated collection and provide potential sources for similar items. The emphasis on both functionality and aesthetics, combined with the successful revitalization of a previously underutilized space, underscores Duncan's expertise in creating personalized and livable interiors. #InteriorDesign #HongKongHome #UpcycledFurniture #EclecticArt #RoofTerrace #HomeOffice #LifestyleChange #PersonalizedDecor

Limdim House Studio has undertaken a renovation project for the Brown Box apartment in Vietnam, transforming a previously commercial two-bedroom unit into a serene one-bedroom home. The design philosophy centers on creating a gentle and calm living space, inspired by the owner, Ms. Brown, and her preference for the color brown. The renovation involved a significant reorganisation of the apartment's layout, primarily by removing existing walls to foster a more open and fluid environment. A key design element implemented throughout the apartment is the extensive use of curved walls and arched niches. These architectural features serve to soften the interior, eliminating sharp corners and contributing to a sense of fluidity and openness. Complementing these curves are tiered cornices, which offer a contemporary interpretation of traditional crown mouldings, further enhancing the gentle aesthetic of the space. The overall design embraces a natural color palette, predominantly featuring light browns, beige, and various wood tones, which collectively evoke a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere. The studio's material selection plays a crucial role in defining the apartment's character. Terrazzo is a prominent material, applied not only to the flooring but also to key furniture pieces such as the kitchen island. This choice provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing surface that contributes to the apartment’s cool and soothing feel, particularly beneficial in Vietnam’s tropical climate due to its heat dissipation properties. The continuous flow of terrazzo from the kitchen island across the floors unifies the main living areas. In the open-plan kitchen and dining area, a rounded island clad in pale terrazzo acts as a central feature, offering additional counter space while blending seamlessly with the apartment's overall design. An arched niche within the kitchen frames the sink, terrazzo countertops, and a semi-circular arrangement of taupe-brown overhead cabinetry, all designed to fit harmoniously within the alcove. The living space, separated from the kitchen and dining area by floor-to-ceiling Melaleuca wood cabinetry and a curved ceiling, continues the theme of natural materials and soft forms. This curved ceiling transitions into an arched wall, subtly demarcating the living zone. Wooden furnishings further tie into the natural aesthetic, ensuring consistency throughout the main living areas. The bedroom, accessed through an arched doorway from the living area, maintains the calm and airy aesthetic. The walls in this private space are finished with a grey plaster-like texture, adding a tactile dimension. An en-suite bathroom adjoins the bedroom, featuring a free-standing terrazzo bathtub positioned beneath a large circular window, which provides a visual connection between the two spaces. Redbrick tiling is used within the en-suite, introducing a contrasting texture while remaining within the natural material palette. Limdim House Studio emphasizes that the primary goal of their design is to create a comfortable and sophisticated living environment that truly resonates with the owner. The studio believes that a successful design goes beyond meeting basic needs, aiming to foster a sense of enjoyment and peace within the home. This project reflects their architectural and interior design approach, which focuses on integrating natural materials, subtle curves, and a calming color scheme to create a harmonious and inviting space. #LimdimHouseStudio #VietnamInteriors #ApartmentRenovation #CurvedWalls #ArchedNiches #TerrazzoDesign #NaturalPalette #OpenPlanLiving #ContemporaryInteriors

This article details the transformation of a 100-year-old American Craftsman home in the foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains by the design firm Salvesen Graham. The project was initiated when a young couple, one American and one British, relocated from California and sought a home that blended their cultural traditions, offering both relaxation and elegance without being overly formal. The designers, Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, aimed to create a comfortable yet sophisticated living space. The house, part of a community of heritage homes dating back to the early 20th century, presented a unique opportunity for Salvesen Graham, a firm more accustomed to working with buildings over 100 years old in the UK. The designers meticulously preserved and enhanced the home's period features, such as its brick and shiplap exterior and expansive veranda. Their approach balanced respect for the original architecture with a desire to update it for modern living, rather than creating a "living museum" of a 1900s mining town house. In the entryway, a small-scale patterned wallpaper contributes to a Victorian aesthetic, complemented by an Arts and Crafts lantern. The designers made a conscious decision to paint some of the original pine woodwork a sage green to neutralize its overwhelming orange tones, allowing the unpainted sections of craftsmanship to be appreciated more easily. This thoughtful intervention highlights the delicate balance between preservation and contemporary adaptation. The drawing room was designed as a sophisticated space for entertaining, with the clients actively participating in sourcing art, including an abstract floral piece. The living room, in contrast, serves as a more casual gathering area. The project was significantly impacted by the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to initial client-designer interactions via Zoom. This period also amplified the British client's desire to infuse English design elements into the American architectural style. A central pass-through space in the house was transformed into a hallway-cum-library, offering an intentional quiet zone that connects different rooms. The kitchen, designed in a Shaker style, bridges functional utilitarianism with English charm. Its formal layout was maintained, rejecting the trend of open-plan spaces, and features fitted units and a large island painted in various shades of blue. The dining room, referred to as the "hearth room," provides an informal dining experience with windows on three sides, creating a sense of dining among treetops. The space incorporates a striped floral fabric for curtains and Roman shades, aligning with painted tongue-and-groove paneling on the ceiling. Upholstered dining chairs, vintage rattan chairs, and a vibrant green built-in window seat contribute to a layered aesthetic. The bedrooms, particularly the master suite, are characterized by a rich interplay of color and pattern, featuring florals, stripes, paisleys, and soft geometrics in a cheerful palette of pinks and greens. Salvesen Graham, founded in London in 2013 by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, is known for its layered aesthetic and timeless approach, aiming to create warm and soft interiors inspired by Georgian England and 18th- and 19th-century Indian textiles, while bringing an edge to quintessential British charm. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AmericanCraftsman #BritishCharm #SalvesenGraham #ColoradoHomes #HistoricRenovation #TraditionalModern #LayeredAesthetic

Designer Marshall Watson and his husband Paul Sparks reside in an exquisite Edwardian five apartment on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, which they have meticulously transformed into a haven of traditional elegance and sophistication. Having lived in the apartment since the 1990s, Watson, with his theater and film background, designed the space to be a sanctuary from the bustling energy of New York City. The apartment, situated in a 1912 building, initially appealed to Watson for its impressive ceiling height and abundant natural light, elements he considered irreplaceable. The recent renovation, only the second since they acquired the property, reflects Watson's thoughtful approach to design, blending historical influences with personal touches. To amplify the sense of spaciousness and light, Watson drew inspiration from Scandinavian design, incorporating a palette of cream and blue. This is complemented by wide-plank oak floors, graceful antiques, and strategically placed mirrors. Doorways were enlarged and aligned to enhance flow, while others were ebonized or cleverly concealed with paneling. A pair of elaborately carved 19th-century French doors, left unpainted, provide a rustic contrast at the bedroom entrance, and an open archway to the study allows light from three exposures to permeate the living area. The entry vestibule, lined with silk velvet, creates a jewel-box effect. The hall and kitchen doors are upholstered in leather with nailhead trim, and the kitchen door features a portal window salvaged from an old submarine. The kitchen ceiling is adorned with burnished-gold paper, harmonizing with the deep, glossy cabinetry. Watson notes that dark colors can paradoxically make a space feel larger, especially at night when shadows minimize boundaries, lending a glamorous ambiance. Lacquered ceilings in the living area further contribute to this illusion by reflecting light, making rooms appear double-height. The apartment showcases treasured items collected over time, including Gracie wallpaper from the 1980s, which now graces the study and complements a Regency desk. An enormous solid iron pediment, rescued from a demolished bank building, is artfully integrated above a built-in closet in the study, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical storage. Decades-old bath tiles, once stored, are now finally installed, illustrating Watson's patient and considered approach to his home. Furnishings acquired from auctions and sales, such as Billy Baldwin-designed étagères from Mario Buatta's estate, are interwoven with personal family heirlooms, including Watson’s mother’s bouillotte table, a grandfather’s violin, and a bronze clock from his great-great-grandfather. These elements imbue the space with a rich sense of history and personal connection, reflecting Watson’s belief in a home as a place of nurture and comfort. Each room exhibits unique design elements. The study, featuring the Gracie wallpaper, showcases floral motifs that echo the carvings of the Regency desk. The dining area highlights a beloved pedestal table, described by Watson as a testament to perfect proportions. The kitchen, designed as a butler’s pantry, incorporates modern mirrored finishes to brighten the dark cabinetry, while a late-19th-century lantern connects to William Morris wallpaper. The bedroom, adorned in shades of periwinkle blue, features a Suzanne Tucker print on the walls and curtains, alongside Persian temple doors that belonged to Watson’s mother. The bathroom subtly honors Watson’s grandfather with a violin silhouette repeated in the marble backsplash, demonstrating his continuous experimentation with design. These thoughtful details reflect a deeply personal and elegant approach to interior design. #InteriorDesign #NewYorkApartment #MarshallWatson #HomeDecor #LuxuryLiving #TraditionalElegance #GracieWallpaper #ScandinavianInfluence #ArchitecturalDetails

The Rowan is the newest tiny house model introduced by the online marketplace, Tiny House Listings. This 34-foot-long (10-meter) tiny house distinguishes itself with a useful porch area and an expansive interior layout, uniquely arranged on a single floor. While its length is comparable to many North American tiny houses, its increased width of 10 feet (3 meters) — 1.5 feet wider than the standard 8.5 feet (2.6 meters) — contributes significantly to a more spacious and home-like feel inside. However, this extra width necessitates a permit for towing on public roads in the USA, making it less ideal for frequent relocation. The Rowan is constructed on a six-axle trailer, a notable feature that suggests a design choice to distribute weight effectively. The exterior is finished with engineered board and batten wood, complemented by a metal roof, ensuring durability and a contemporary aesthetic. The interior boasts drywall finishes, providing a clean and modern canvas for residents. Access to the home is through a 6-foot (1.8-meter) porch, which leads into the living room via double glass doors. The living area is well-lit with generous glazing and is designed to accommodate a sofa, a TV, and a cabinet, creating a comfortable space for relaxation. Adjacent to the living room is the kitchen, which is equipped with an induction stove and a sink. It offers ample cabinetry and designated space for additional appliances, catering to practical cooking needs. A breakfast bar with seating for two further enhances the kitchen's functionality, serving as a casual dining or workspace. Moving deeper into the tiny house, past the living and kitchen areas, is the bathroom. This facility includes a shower, a sink, a flushing toilet, and some storage, providing essential amenities within a compact footprint. One of the most significant design aspects of the Rowan is its single-floor layout, particularly evident in the bedroom. Unlike many tiny houses that feature loft bedrooms requiring occupants to crawl, the Rowan’s bedroom offers ample headroom, allowing residents to stand and move around comfortably. Located at the opposite end of the house from the entrance, the bedroom is designed to accommodate a queen-sized bed. It also includes a large built-in closet and washer/dryer hookups, maximizing convenience and storage within the limited space. The Rowan is currently available for purchase at US$92,000. This model aligns with Tiny House Listings' recent offerings, which include the larger duplex-style TinyPlex and the more budget-friendly Cortado, showcasing the marketplace's diverse range of tiny home solutions. The Rowan represents a practical yet comfortable option for individuals or couples seeking a tiny house experience with an emphasis on interior spaciousness and a semi-outdoor living component provided by its porch. #TinyHouses #TinyHouseDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #MobileHomes #AffordableHousing #CompactLiving #MinimalistLiving #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

The client's preferred color, avocado, which is both on-trend and known for its calming properties, was central to the minimalist renovation of a 520 sq ft (48 square meter) high-rise flat in Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong. The apartment benefits from ample natural light and compelling city views. Although the owner's primary request for a home office rather than a second bedroom was accommodated, her desire for an open kitchen could not be met due to a structural wall. To create an inspiring workspace, the top half of the wall separating the smaller bedroom from the living room was removed and replaced with bi-fold timber louvre panels positioned above the desk, allowing for city views and privacy when closed. Simple French design elements were subtly incorporated into the flat. For instance, wainscoting, which can consume space in small apartments, was replicated by painting the lower half of the dining area wall in avocado green, framed by a low-profile walnut molding and topped with creamy white. The bedroom features a grey-silver bird pattern wallpaper on an accent wall, designed to catch sunlight. Instead of an open kitchen, the existing swing door was replaced with a timber-lined archway, connecting the kitchen and dining area seamlessly. The design language is consistent across materials, with herringbone patterns in both timber flooring in the dining room and wall tiles in the kitchen. The kitchen cabinetry is avocado green with creamy white Corian benchtops, complemented by white and black floor tiles. The bathroom showcases a varied tiling approach, utilizing terrazzo stone for a feature wall, herringbone avocado ceramics for the splashback, and pure white for the shower walls and base, countering a matchy-matchy aesthetic. An elongated, arched mirrored cabinet was also integrated into the bathroom to maximize storage. The overall design effectively utilizes space and achieves the client's goal of an inviting and soothing ambiance. #MinimalistDesign #HongKongApartment #AvocadoGreen #InteriorRenovation #FrenchSimplicity #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeOffice #MTDesign

This article provides a detailed tour of a 992 square-foot BTO (Build-To-Order) home located in Bidadari, Singapore, owned by a couple named Jun Hao and Sara. The primary objective behind the design of this compact apartment was to cultivate an inviting, open, and spacious atmosphere, addressing the owners' desire for a relaxing environment after work and a suitable space for entertaining guests. The design philosophy heavily incorporated natural elements such as wood and raw concrete throughout the interiors, aiming to instill a sense of earthy spaciousness that contrasts with their urban surroundings. This choice of materials contributes to a warm and cohesive aesthetic. The kitchen exemplifies an open-concept approach, featuring creative open shelving that allows for the display of various personal items, including knick-knacks, ceramics, and books. A large kitchen island, designed with ample drawer storage underneath, enhances both functionality and storage capacity within the space. The living area is a testament to flexible design, having been created by combining two common rooms. This strategic merging of spaces facilitates a greater sense of openness and adaptability. A sliding door has been incorporated into the design of the living area, offering the option for privacy when desired, allowing the space to be reconfigured as needed. Within this flexible living space, distinct zones have been established: a dedicated lounge area for television viewing and a workstation accompanied by a bookshelf, further maximizing the utility of the area. The bathrooms maintain a minimalist design ethos, utilizing neutral tones to create a serene and uncluttered environment. In the master bedroom, simplicity and minimalism are prioritized to ensure ease of rearrangement for furnishings. The only fixed carpentry in the master bedroom is a flush-to-the-wall wardrobe, a design choice intended to maximize available space and maintain the room's open feel. The overall design and layout have successfully created a home that their friends and family perceive as cozy and welcoming. The open-concept design facilitates social gatherings, games, and meals, fulfilling the couple's desire for an entertaining space. This BTO home stands as an example of how thoughtful design can transform a smaller apartment into a comfortable, warm, and spacious sanctuary. The residence is presented as an evolving space that continues to meet the needs and preferences of Jun Hao and Sara, providing them with a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing living environment. #HomeTours #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #BTOHome #WoodyInteriors #FlexibleLayout #MinimalistDesign #OpenConcept #SingaporeRealEstate

A couple in Sham Tseng, Hong Kong, David Yu and Amy Chan, renovated their 800 sq ft (74 square metre) flat with their three cats in mind. Alvin Cheng Ka Heng, creative director at MAD Studio, drew parallels between the needs of active preschoolers and playful felines, recognizing their shared enjoyment of climbing and exploring. This perspective led to a purposeful design that goes beyond mere decoration. The owners sought a clutter-free Japanese aesthetic and smart-home functionalities. Cheng's design successfully blended these desires, resulting in a minimalist, open-plan interior featuring extensive storage solutions. Although the original two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout was largely preserved, the removal of several walls significantly altered the flow of the space. The kitchen is now open to the dining area, necessitating a re-evaluation of its layout. Similarly, the second bedroom, repurposed as a study, is visually connected to the living area, requiring it to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. A cohesive design language was crucial throughout the flat, extending even to integrated overhead cat runways and a climbing frame crafted from light oak joinery. These bespoke feline elements are subtly incorporated, often surprising visitors who initially perceive them as mere decoration, though the cats readily adapted to their intended use. Practical considerations also influenced material choices, such as the robust and tactile luxury vinyl tile flooring selected instead of timber, which is prone to scratching by playful paws. To address the owners' desire to restrict cat access to certain areas while maintaining an open feel, Cheng designed two sliding Shoji-style screens made of clear glass in black aluminium frames for the kitchen. A matching fixed screen was installed between the living area and the study, cleverly concealing audiovisual and internet cables to prevent cats from getting entangled. To counteract the original floor plan's lack of storage, a platform was built in the study, featuring 40cm-deep hydraulic compartments for bulky items and serving as additional seating. A diatomaceous earth wall finish was applied to add texture and provide sound-absorbing and air-purifying properties. In the main bedroom, where there was a lack of wardrobe space due to existing door and balcony placements, Cheng maximized the remaining wall space by designing hanging units and drawers that extend to the bed's edges, each including a niche for essentials. The former helper's quarters, originally a small sleeping nook and toilet, were reconfigured into a larger guest bathroom. This new wet room functions as both a laundry area with a combined washer/dryer and a dedicated space for washing and grooming the cats. The home also integrates smart technology, including motion-sensor lighting, a pop-up projection screen, and automated curtains, enhancing convenience and comfort. The project, completed in 2022, represents a fusion of functionality and beauty, facilitating easy living for the five occupants, including the three feline residents. #MinimalistDesign #OpenPlanLiving #CatFriendlyHome #HongKongInteriors #SmartHome #IntegratedStorage #JapaneseAesthetic #PetFriendlyDesign #FunctionalBeauty

This blog post details the design and features of a 4,000-square-foot mountain home in Park City, Utah, built by homeowners as their "forever home." The residence, designed by Unscripted Interiors, is situated on a lot with a creek, offering views of the Wasatch Range and access to year-round outdoor activities. The design process involved a collaboration with architects from the ground up, with Unscripted Interiors playing a pivotal role from the initial drawing plans. Kari Armstrong, principal of the Denver-based Unscripted Interiors, describes the home’s style as "Modern Americana" with a "mountain-ish" sensibility, avoiding overly rustic themes despite its mountain setting. The design subtly incorporates a red, white, and blue color palette, with reds appearing in vintage Turkish carpets, blues in blankets and pillows, and whites in paneled hallways and custom tile installations in the kitchen and bathrooms. Materials such as alpaca, local stone, petrified wood, bouclé, and linen contribute to the sophisticated aesthetic, ensuring the home feels elegant and adaptable to various settings. The double-height great room features custom bespoke elements, including an A. Rudin sofa, a 13-foot dining table with bronze accents from Holly Hunt, custom chairs with leather detailing, and a fireplace hearth crafted from local “Park City Gold” limestone. A custom-made rug from Nepal and a Ralph Lauren light fixture for Circa Lighting further enhance the room’s luxurious feel. The built-in bar showcases a unique approach to traditional mountain house elements, with custom-clad leather cabinets finished with nailhead details by The Tanner’s Craft. Accommodation for visiting family is a key aspect of the home's design, including a "four seasons" sun porch that provides comfort in winter with a fireplace and opens up in summer. A dedicated coffee and breakfast bar connected to guest rooms on the second floor caters to early risers. Other notable features include a sitting room with custom walnut millwork, a kitchen with a herringbone pattern backsplash from Concept Studio and metal cabinets, and a primary bedroom with an antler chandelier, a custom bench, and a bouclé bed. Guest rooms include "dueling bunks" with built-in storage and a wood-paneled guest room painted in Cornwall Slate by Sherwin Williams, adorned with vintage blankets transformed into pillows. The primary bathroom boasts a Victoria & Albert freestanding tub and Phylrich faucets. Outdoor spaces feature Gloster dining chairs and bar stools for al fresco meals and a "she shed" near concrete raised garden beds, offering a serene escape. #ParkCity #MountainRetreat #ModernAmericana #UnscriptedInteriors #HomeDesign #CustomInteriors #LuxuryHome #Utah

The "Oslo Home" in Chennai, a 2,000-square-foot residence designed by The Auburn Studio, embodies the clean and minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian design, characterized by an open layout, soft beige tones, and natural wood accents. The renovation aimed to create a calming environment through a carefully selected color palette of soft beige as the primary tone, complemented by light wood and off-white fabrics. Significant changes included upgrading the flooring and integrating these subtle, natural elements throughout the space. Upon entering the home, a distinctive wooden partition screen in the foyer serves both as a functional element and a visual statement, creating an inviting and refined entryway. This screen subtly conceals the spaces beyond, generating a sense of anticipation. The ceiling above the foyer is adorned with textured rattan wallpaper, and a decorative rattan pendant light from Claymango casts a soft, organic glow, enhancing the area's welcoming atmosphere. The living room features an intimate seating arrangement positioned with its back to the windows, allowing natural light to fill the space while defining the seating area. The furniture in this room is custom-made, with lighting fixtures sourced from Claymango. A nook near the windows is dedicated to indoor plants, adding a refreshing touch of greenery and strengthening the room's connection to nature. The homeowners' original marble dining table was updated with new light wooden legs featuring subtle curved detailing, giving it a contemporary flair. This updated table is paired with comfortable, curved dining chairs, and decorative lights from Orange Tree further elevate the dining area's warmth and sophistication. The house includes two additional rooms, one transformed into a study and the other into a master bedroom. The master bedroom features a minimal and neutral palette with a soft, comfortable bed, bedding by Sarita Handa, a rug from Rugberry, and lighting from Home Canvas. Sleek wooden ledges serve as bedside tables, maintaining the room's minimalist aesthetic. An artwork titled "Eternal Ties" by Rhea adds sophistication to both the bedroom and its adjoining dressing nook. The study, previously a home theater, is designed for versatility, functioning as both a cozy living area and an efficient meeting space. A touch of mustard adds warmth, and the room is furnished with an accent chair from West Elm, a coffee table from Dtale Modern, and a side table from Objectry. Curved wall details and arched paneling introduce softness and fluidity, complemented by statues from Escape Crematory and a pendant light from The White Teak. The overall design of the Chennai home successfully executed the homeowners' brief, resulting in a bright, airy living space that integrates functional design with aesthetic beauty, offering a harmonious blend of relaxation and style through varied textures on cushions and carpets. #ScandinavianDesign #ChennaiHome #MinimalistInterior #TheAuburnStudio #NaturalWarmth #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernAesthetics

This article details the transformation of a newly built holiday home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, designed to offer a tranquil escape for a busy family. The property, acquired during the Covid period, replaced an old fibro shack with a modern structure by InForm and Pleysier Perkins, featuring interiors curated by Bree Banfield. While the exterior of the house incorporates Japanese design influences with moody, geometric black charred screens, the interior design prioritizes a lighthearted, low-key, and family-friendly atmosphere, emphasizing comfort and serenity. The homeowner was actively involved in the design process, providing a detailed vision, which was then refined and elevated by interior designer Bree Banfield. Banfield praised the client's thoroughness, using the moodboards as a foundation for sourcing artwork and soft furnishings, in addition to advising on finishes. A core element of the interior scheme was the color palette, which began with Dulux Earth Warming on the pantry joinery. This established a foundation of warm, clay-based tones with peach hues, deliberately avoiding a purely Scandinavian aesthetic. Soft oranges and tints of green were layered throughout to enhance a summery feel and contribute to the overall earthy ambience. Upon entering through a Zen courtyard, visitors are greeted by a double-height, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. This expansive space is made cozy in cooler months by a fireplace. Located behind the living room is the children's wing, which includes a secondary living room, the main bathroom, and three bedrooms, one of which has an ensuite. The design team focused on creating a comfortable and durable environment, selecting high-quality, hard-wearing pieces, including solid timber furniture, to withstand the rigors of family life without appearing overly precious or pristine. Imperfections are embraced through textured materials and the deliberate avoidance of stark white surfaces. An L-shaped outdoor area complements the home’s interior, featuring an entertaining deck that connects to a dedicated health studio. This studio is equipped with an infrared sauna, an ice bath, and a Pilates reformer bed, catering to the family’s commitment to health and wellness. The initial plan for a single-level home was revised due to the irregular plot shape, leading to the addition of an upper floor. This second level houses the main suite, a cinema room, and a parents' retreat, offering private spaces within the larger home. The owner highlights that despite the house's size, careful design has created cozy and inviting spaces, fostering a sense of being on holiday and promoting a slower pace of life, leading them to consider making it their permanent residence. Banfield's primary challenge was to soften the modern architectural lines, which she achieved through strategic material choices. She introduced textural elements like a Tigmi rug to contrast with the existing terrazzo and used sconces, shapely lamps, and a custom crochet pendant by Hamimi to add warmth and character, moving beyond standard ceiling lights. Pattern was integrated through an armchair in the lounge and khaki-print wallpaper in a guest room, while textile artworks by various artists further enrich the walls. The overall design successfully fosters a calming environment that encourages relaxation and quality family time, fulfilling the owners’ desire for a peaceful retreat away from city life. #HolidayHomeDesign #ZenInspiredInteriors #MorningtonPeninsula #WabiSabiStyle #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FamilyFriendlyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #OutdoorLiving

This article details the transformation of a 1922 bungalow in Denver's Washington Park neighborhood, owned by Julie and Joe Anderies, an art historian and a jazz musician, respectively. The couple sought to revamp their home to reflect their personal style and world travels, selecting interior designer Katie Schroder of Atelier Design Group for the project. The renovation involved stripping the house down to its studs, allowing for a comprehensive redesign that blends modern and antique elements within a modest space. The design process began with a specific Schumacher fabric and a photograph of teal kitchen cabinets, which heavily influenced the home's overall color palette and aesthetic. Julie Anderies' openness to vibrant colors and her desire for each piece to have a unique story were central to Schroder's approach. To balance the potential for busyness from extensive art collections and colorful furnishings, Schroder opted for a neutral taupe-gray paint (Benjamin Moore’s Thunder) for the main walls, allowing the upholstery and art to be the focal points. The couple's trip to Morocco, where they purchased several rugs, also integrated Moroccan influences into the design, contributing to a jewel-toned theme throughout the house. Schroder emphasized playing with color and texture, creating a dynamic yet cohesive interior. An example of this balance is found in the master bedroom, where a muted Moroccan rug grounds vibrant bedding and a patterned headboard. Hand-carved doors by California artist Evelyn Ackerman add another unique artistic touch. The kitchen, designed by Angela Otten of William Ohs, features a large custom island, sandstone countertops, and recessed lighting to compensate for minimal natural light, all while incorporating the initial Schumacher fabric on a built-in banquette. Functionality was a key consideration in the design. The architect, Jon Hindlemann, strategically placed the living room at the back of the house, behind the kitchen, to draw guests deeper into the home. This layout acknowledges the kitchen's role as a central gathering space. Given the couple's desire to downsize without sacrificing their accumulated possessions, built-ins and hidden storage solutions were crucial. The living room includes an Italian cabinet that conceals a TV, books, and electronics, while a nearby bench seat provides open storage underneath, maintaining an airy feel despite extensive storage. A significant design element highlighted is the vaulted ceiling in the living room, which is covered in Makrana wallpaper by Harlequin, mimicking marble. Schroder initially had to persuade Julie about the wallpaper, but its organic and neutral pattern ultimately brought attention to the unique architectural feature. Midcentury design influences are evident, particularly in the living room and dining area, with Mexican midcentury dining furniture and stained glass French doors by local artist Ann Wolff, serving both as artwork and a privacy screen. The exterior also saw changes, with the original garage being replaced by a new structure further back on the lot, designed to resemble a small studio, complemented by landscaping from Altgelt & Associates and Landwise. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of building trust between designer and client to achieve such bold and personalized interior transformations. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #GlobalInspiredDecor #MidcenturyModern #WashPark #DenverRealEstate #AtelierDesignGroup #CustomInteriors

This article features the insights of Alexandra Gove, co-owner of Hygge Life, on where to find unique home decor in Colorado's High Country. Gove and her husband, Koen van Renswoude, established Hygge Life five years ago, introducing a Scandinavian-inspired design aesthetic to the Vail Valley. Their boutique, known for handcrafted ceramics, shearling, candles, and classic Scandinavian design, has recently expanded to include more furnishings, lighting, and home decor, along with interior-styling services. The physical space of Hygge Life in Avon is designed to emulate a serene residential home, characterized by plaster walls, soft lighting, and constant candlelight, embodying Gove's vision of a retail store as an artist's personal curation. The article highlights three specific high-country home goods boutiques recommended by Gove, offering diverse styles and product selections. The first recommendation is Vintage Magnolia, located in Riverwalk at Edwards. Gove describes it as an "eye candy" experience, emphasizing its blend of a popular floral studio with a warm, bohemian home decor and gift assortment. She particularly appreciates the shop's unique and artistic offerings, which stand out from commonly repeated products seen on social media. The store features a wide array of pillows, blankets, planters, and various textures, alongside floral designs that exhibit a loose, organic style. A notable aspect is the visible worktable where florists assemble arrangements, contributing to the shop's transparent and engaging atmosphere. The second featured destination is Collective Design + Furnishings in Frisco, described as a hub for "mountain-modern" design. Gove notes a growing trend away from traditional mountain aesthetics, and Collective is presented as a resource for those seeking a fresher yet still inviting look. The showroom is characterized by its spaciousness and beautifully arranged furnishings and accessories for every room. Additionally, it offers a full-service design team to assist customers in bringing their design visions to life. The article implies that this store caters to a clientele looking for contemporary and sophisticated design solutions for their mountain homes. Finally, Gove recommends R|D Home in Steamboat Springs, an establishment affiliated with the local design firm Rumor Design + ReDesign. Her discovery of this shop during a stroll impressed her with its size and beauty, including a chic coffee bar and a communal table, encouraging visitors to linger and appreciate the space. The store offers an extensive collection of furniture, lighting, and decor, featuring many unique and playful items, from sculptural lounge chairs to decorative objects and special upholstery fabrics. Gove specifically mentions finding a roll of Kelly Wearstler wallpaper and an antique dresser there, underscoring the shop's eclectic mix of old and new pieces, which makes for an engaging shopping experience and allows customers to find distinctive items. #HomeDecor #ColoradoDesign #HyggeLife #RetailTherapy #InteriorDesign #MountainModern #ScandinavianDesign #HighCountry

The article details the design process and outcome of a custom-built home in Dallas for Chris and Lynsey Synek, whose personal style, particularly Lynsey's "couture" fashion, heavily influenced the interior design. Faced with a limited real estate market offering homes that were either too old or too small, the Syneks decided to purchase a lot and embark on a custom build. They engaged designer Philip Thomas Vanderford of Studio Thomas James, Janson Luter Architects, and builder Faulkner Perrin to create their ideal home. The design aesthetic for the house was directly inspired by Lynsey Synek's curated and edgy fashion sense, characterized by precise editing and a specific color palette. This influence translated into the home's selection of deep charcoals, dusty whites, spicy mustards, eggplant, and sophisticated pinks, some enhanced with high-gloss finishes. These colors were balanced with natural elements like oak beams, flooring, and cabinetry, extending even to the office ceiling. Vanderford's approach focused on holistic design, ensuring seamless transitions and optimal mobility between spaces. The couple's preference for having all main living areas on the first floor guided the layout. A central feature of the home is the living room, designed as the nexus for family and guests, and considered one of the Syneks' favorite areas. To prevent the large room from feeling either overcrowded or empty, Vanderford implemented a "rule of two," using pairs of significant furniture pieces such as 85-inch settees, midcentury modern chairs, and coffee tables. This strategy aimed to improve circulation and flow, making the room feel both inviting and functional without appearing cartoonish, a common pitfall in oversized Texas rooms. The article also provides a room-by-room breakdown, highlighting specific design choices and sourced items. The entryway features an inky, textural wallcovering from National Solutions and custom black-and-white tile, complemented by a custom Riloh chandelier and a St. James Lighting lantern. The living room includes pieces from Paul Matter and Baker-McGuire, with a Stark rug. The family room, serving as a more informal entertaining space, contains chairs by Julian Chichester, a Visual Comfort & Co lamp, and a coffee table from Theodore Alexander. The kitchen is characterized by a wall of windows, warm oak cabinetry, and Bianco Superiore quartzite, furnished with vintage stools in Élitisfabric and Riloh pendants. Further sections detail the butler's pantry with Hapny hardware, a breakfast nook featuring a custom banquette and a Riloh chandelier, and a dining room painted in high-gloss Benjamin Moore Ciao Bella, accented with Carlucci draperies and a Jonathan Browning Studios chandelier. The wet bar, located opposite the living room, is equipped with Fyrn barstools. The powder room showcases terrazzo tile from Ann Sacks, Visual Comfort & Co sconces, and Phylrich fixtures. The primary bedroom features a supersized custom headboard and a pitched ceiling, with a Visual Comfort & Co chandelier and Thibaut wallcovering. The main level owners' suite and an outdoor cabana are also mentioned, completing the comprehensive tour of this custom-tailored Dallas residence. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomBuild #DallasRealEstate #InteriorArchitecture #ColorPalette #FurnitureArrangement #PhilipThomasVanderford