Liddicoat & Goldhill adds Tailored House to Victorian terrace

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

This article details the renovation and extension of an unrenovated double-storey Victorian terrace in Fitzroy North, Melbourne, transformed by Figureground Architecture into a serene family home. The project, led by architect Matt Rawlins, was designed for a couple with two children, aiming to maximize space and functionality within the existing heritage structure and its surroundings. The house's original features, including its east–west orientation and a sufficiently long block, provided a solid foundation for the extensive renovation. The renovation strategy was executed in three distinct phases. The first phase involved replacing the existing lean-to structure at the rear with a new, full-width extension. This addition now accommodates a laundry room, powder room, a galley-style kitchen, and an open-plan living and dining area. This new space is characterized by its pavilion-like design, offering ample light and air, and is enriched with tactile surfaces that contribute to a contemporary aesthetic. A key design element in this transition is a joinery-lined vestibule, which discreetly conceals the laundry and powder room door within its cabinetry and uses angled storage along the northern boundary to guide occupants into the main living space. The kitchen, though compact, is highly functional, featuring sage-colored 2-pac overhead cabinets, a marble splashback and benchtop, and a fridge cleverly integrated into a joinery-wrapped column that also hides culinary items from view. A foldaway breakfast station within a timber joinery unit further helps manage clutter in the busy household. Drawing from his background in hospitality design, Matt Rawlins opted for an upholstered banquette along the northern wall in the dining area, paired with Thonet dining chairs, as a space-saving solution compared to a traditional freestanding dining table. The living zone extends this focus on integrated furniture with an east-facing daybed, capturing morning sun through a large pivoting window, and a low, marble-topped plinth along the southern wall for displaying personal items. The interior's material palette, including pine lining boards for ceilings and a combination of ivory-hued brickwork and American oak wall panelling for walls, underscores a commitment to craftsmanship and fine detailing. The second part of the strategy focused on the courtyard garden, which was envisioned as an extension of the interior living space. This lush garden is divided into paved and grassy sections, with low-maintenance shrubs and architectural elements like brick walls and timber battens extending the house’s design language outdoors, promoting an intimate connection between the indoors and outdoors. The final phase involved constructing a compact standalone building at the site’s eastern boundary, bookending the courtyard garden. This structure serves a dual purpose, housing a workshop on one side and a music studio on the other, catering to one client's musical pursuits. The music studio incorporates perforated plasterboard for acoustic control and cavity-sliding doors to minimize sound leakage, and it also functioned as a home office during the pandemic. The exterior of this secondary building also reflects Figureground’s focus on craft, featuring a distinctive roof form that effectively blocks sight lines from neighboring properties. Ultimately, the completed Fitzroy North House is noted for its surprising sense of calm, a quality attributed to the rigorous planning that shaped every volume, the meticulous detailing that optimized every element, and the serene, green courtyard garden that brings tranquility to the home's core. The project stands as an exemplar of how thoughtful design can reconfigure heritage houses for modern living while maintaining a sense of order and serenity. #VictorianTerrace #HomeRenovation #FiguregroundArchitecture #FitzroyNorth #InteriorDesign #CompactLiving #CustomJoinery #OutdoorLiving #Craftsmanship #FamilyHome

The Sonoma-based interior design firm Hommeboys, led by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, has opened a new studio and launched three new capsule collections for their furniture line, Haus of Hommeboys. The firm is known for its thoughtful design approach and hands-on craftsmanship, blending classic Wine Country aesthetics with a modern, refreshing twist. Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier, who have been married since 2019, have previously garnered acclaim for their designs in projects such as Healdsburg’s Marine Layer tasting room and Sonoma’s Valley Bar + Bottle restaurant. The new studio, which also houses a woodshop and cabinetry studio, is situated just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma. This expansion represents a significant step for the Hommeboys, fulfilling a long-held ambition to establish their own showroom. Mutter-Rottmayer expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the venture, acknowledging the risk involved in showcasing their unique design vision to a wider audience, but emphasizing their consistent desire for a dedicated space. The Hommeboys’ design philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on mixing materials and incorporating organic and natural elements. They experiment with various shapes in plaster, stone, and wood, aiming for a look that is both earthy and deeply connected to the Californian landscape. This approach is reflected in their furniture line, which features organic and natural materials. One of their new capsule collections for Haus of Hommeboys draws inspiration from rustic themes. This collection includes dark, ebony-stained, hand-notched cedar furniture, designed to evoke a raw, rustic, and edgy feel. The shapes within this collection are described as anthropomorphized, influenced by the golden hills of California. The design process at Hommeboys is driven by creativity and a desire to have fun. Alex Mutter-Rottmayer highlighted an instance where green velvet from a photo shoot was spontaneously used to cover a bedroom’s walls, illustrating their adaptive and playful approach to design. This method emphasizes utilizing available resources and embracing unexpected inspirations to shape their distinctive interiors. #InteriorDesign #Sonoma #DesignStudio #FurnitureDesign #HausOfHommeboys #WineCountryDesign #OrganicDesign #Craftsmanship

The 'nieuw leyden townhouses' project, designed by Dutch practice 24H-architecture, is part of MVRDV's 'nieuw leyden' urban plan in Leiden, the Netherlands. This urban plan allows for the construction of 18 unique houses by various architects, without strict zoning limits or aesthetic regulations, requiring only adherence to a given building envelope. 24H-architecture contributed two sustainably-driven townhouses that exceed Dutch ecological standards. A distinctive feature of these townhouses is a central courtyard, referred to as the 'canyon,' which acts as a fissure running through the house. This design choice serves to illuminate all interior spaces, creating a comfortable living environment that benefits from natural solar heating. To maintain internal temperatures efficiently, the houses incorporate highly insulated walls and low-emissivity glass. Furthermore, solar water heating systems are utilized to reduce reliance on grid energy, emphasizing the project's sustainable approach. The front facade of the townhouses is a key characteristic, presenting an artistic composition of organically curved lines. These lines are crafted from FSC-certified louro gamela and jatoba wood planks, combined with corten steel panels. This combination not only creates a unique and aesthetically pleasing elevation but also highlights the use of sustainable materials. The interior design continues this focus on sustainable and natural materials, featuring bamboo parquet floors, bamboo window and door frames, and a back terrace decking made from the same material. The project demonstrates a commitment to sustainable architecture through its material choices and passive design strategies. The 'canyon' courtyard not only provides natural light but also contributes to the thermal comfort of the residents by maximizing solar gain. The use of FSC-certified wood and corten steel on the facade, along with bamboo interiors, underscores the architects' dedication to environmental responsibility and material innovation. The overall design prioritizes energy efficiency and a harmonious integration of natural elements into the living spaces. The townhouses, completed in 2011, have a floor area of 200 m² and 180 m² for the two private residences respectively. The project clients were Fam. van Dam – Lock and Fam. Blansjaar – Visser. The design team from 24H-architecture included Maartje Lammers, Boris Zeisser, Olav Bruin, Anja Verdonk, Albert-Jan Vermeulen, Yana Vlasova, Floor Kokke, and Valentine van Dam. This development exemplifies how architectural design can integrate sustainability and unique aesthetic expression within an urban planning framework. #NieuwLeydenTownhouses #SustainableArchitecture #24HArchitecture #GreenBuilding #LeidenNetherlands #UrbanPlanning #EcoFriendlyDesign #BambooInteriors #CortenSteel

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller

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

This article details a renovation project by Studio Ben Allen, focusing on a Victorian terraced house in York, England. The project involves extending the brick home by adding two barrel vaults, also constructed from brick, to the rear garden. This extension seamlessly integrates with the existing architecture while introducing modern elements. The newly created double-arched space houses the kitchen and a small dining area. To maintain a connection with the outdoors and preserve greenery, the extension incorporates a courtyard enclosed by glass doors and sliders on three sides. This design choice allows natural light to permeate the interior and offers a visual link to the garden. A recurring motif of arches is present throughout the home, extending beyond the external barrel vaults. Inside, arched cubbies are featured underneath the concrete sink, providing stylish storage solutions in the kitchen. In the main floor bathroom, tall mirrors with curved tops are installed above a double vanity, echoing the arch theme. Despite the consistent use of arches, the design avoids monotony, instead imparting a classic charm to the home. The interior design employs a mix of materials to create a fresh yet warm aesthetic. Raw concrete is used for the kitchen counter, complemented by polished concrete floors. The original brick walls are maintained, adding texture and historical character, while oak cupboards and shelving introduce warmth and a touch of natural elegance. This combination of materials and architectural details ensures the home feels contemporary without losing its inherent classic appeal. The renovation exemplifies how modern architectural interventions can respect and enhance the character of historic buildings. Studio Ben Allen's approach demonstrates a thoughtful balance between old and new, creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. The emphasis on natural light, material selection, and the continuation of architectural themes contributes to a cohesive and inviting environment. #VictorianArchitecture #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalExtension #BrickDesign #VaultedCeilings #InteriorDesign #MaterialMixing #StudioBenAllen #EnglandArchitecture

Digital creative and brand consultant Lucy Williams embarked on her first renovation project, transforming a Victorian terraced house in west London into a home that reflects her distinctive style. Despite initially not wanting a Victorian terrace, Williams and her husband, Ruaraidh, found a house in late 2020 that, while well-maintained, offered the scope for a significant renovation. Their previous home, a "cavernous" two-bedroom flat, prompted a desire for a change of pace and a project that hadn't been updated in decades. Williams collaborated with Chantal at Flower Michelin Architects to achieve a balance between preserving the house's original character and integrating contemporary design elements. The renovation process began with the kitchen, where Williams learned the intricate interconnectedness of design decisions, likening it to a game of Jenga. A key starting point for the kitchen's design was a window seat, envisioned as a comfortable spot for their dog, Finn, and a feature that would connect the indoor space with the generous, south-facing garden. The garden itself, a rare private outdoor space in London, was a significant draw for the couple and was transformed into a "mini English country garden" with the help of Butter Wakefield, featuring abundant alliums and aquilegia. The design ensures the garden is visible from all ground-floor rooms, integrating the outdoors into the home's overall feel. The overarching design philosophy for the house was practicality and comfort, aiming for a space where guests could relax without being overly cautious. Williams intentionally designed the home to suit their actual lifestyle, rather than an idealized, more chic fantasy. The living room, for instance, boasts a bold blue color palette complemented by a large orange Maker & Son sofa, catering to their shared love for television. The kitchen was designed with entertaining in mind. Williams allowed herself one 'fantasy' space: a second reception room located between the kitchen and living room, featuring a travertine fireplace and sheepskin-covered antique chairs, where she envisions enjoying an evening glass of whiskey. Inspiration for the home's aesthetic draws from diverse sources, including the Copenhagen home of Ganni founders Ditte and Nicolaj Reffstrup, and California-based Reath Design. This blend of Californian and Scandinavian influences is evident throughout the house. The main bedroom and bathroom exude a west coast vibe with their relaxed ambiance and neutral colors, featuring an enormous, waved headboard and a custom-designed wardrobe. In contrast, other areas like the spare bathroom and attic room showcase vibrant patterns and prints, reminiscent of Beata Heuman's style. The master en suite includes an arched microcement shower inspired by Mediterranean summers, while the vanity was custom-made to provide ample storage while maintaining a sense of space. The house also incorporates a mix of vintage and antique finds alongside bespoke pieces. Reclaimed flooring and tiles were extensively used, and furniture was sourced from auctions, markets, and vintage shops. Unique elements like the bespoke kitchen by Browson Design, painted in 'Sky Blue' with Beata Heuman hardware, and a custom red pendant light by Beata Heuman in the dining area, highlight Williams's bold use of color. The hallway features 'Soho Pink' walls and reclaimed quarry tiles, with a vintage pine wall light as a favorite find. The study combines a 1950s Gio Ponti desk with a vintage chair reupholstered in mustard cord and vintage Poul Cadovius wall shelves. Even practical spaces like the guest bathroom, with its geranium wallpaper, and the utility room, located upstairs for convenience, are thoughtfully designed. The loft bathroom, clad in tongue and groove panelling and painted in 'Cavendish Cream,' includes sauna lights and a vintage rope mirror, demonstrating attention to detail even in smaller spaces. Williams views the house not as a 'forever home' but as an adaptable space perfectly suited to their current needs, a testament to thoughtful, personalized design. #VictorianTerrace #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #WestLondonHouse #LucyWilliams #BoldColors #VintageFinds #GardenDesign #CustomFurniture

HK Associates undertook an extensive renovation of a mid-century modern home in Arizona's Catalina Foothills, originally designed and built by Tucson architect Tom Gist. The project, named Casa Luce, aimed to modernize the 1960s structure while preserving its architectural heritage. The original residence featured earthen walls of burnt adobe and a low-slung roof, characteristic of Gist's style. Despite its historical significance, the home required significant updates to meet contemporary living standards. The redesign prioritized enhancing natural light, removing obstructive elements, updating finishes, and unifying the ceiling design to create a seamless connection between the interior and the desert landscape. Initially, the home suffered from an introverted layout, particularly a dimly lit and closed-off kitchen that overlooked a floor-to-ceiling picture window with views of the Santa Rita Mountains. The spatial continuity was further disrupted by a low mechanical bulkhead, a sunken indoor terrarium, and a compartmentalized ceiling composed of painted wood beams and textured white plaster. The renovation by HK Associates sought to rectify these issues, transforming the living spaces into a light-filled, open-plan environment. A pivotal modification involved the removal of four masonry piers that supported the central roof. This structural change allowed for the creation of a floating ceiling, dramatically altering the perception of space in the main living areas and enhancing spatial fluidity. This required advanced engineering, precise carpentry, and careful construction. The material palette chosen for Casa Luce emphasizes natural light and subtle design. Artisanal lime plaster walls and sustainable wood veneer cabinetry were incorporated, creating a minimal yet sophisticated aesthetic that complements the home's original concrete, adobe, and timber elements. These materials were selected to reflect the balance between structure and environment prevalent in the Sonoran Desert. The bedroom wing also underwent a significant transformation. A previously dark and enclosed corridor was reimagined as a passage guided by light. A frosted glass screen positioned at the entrance to the kitchen diffuses natural light, while the partially exposed roof structure casts dynamic shadows that shift with the sun's movement, creating an interactive play of light and space throughout the home. The outdoor areas were redesigned to extend the interior's visual perception and strengthen the connection to the natural surroundings. An infinity-edge swimming pool was added, visually extending towards the distant Santa Rita Mountains from the south-facing picture window. Adjacent to the pool, long concrete steps emerge from the interior, serving as amphitheater seating for outdoor living and framing the desert landscape. In summary, the Casa Luce project by HK Associates revitalized a mid-century modern residence by addressing its functional shortcomings while honoring its historical integrity. The renovation focused on opening up the interior, maximizing natural light and views, and integrating the home more deeply with its desert environment through thoughtful material selection and innovative structural modifications. The result is a contemporary dwelling that respects its origins while offering enhanced living spaces and a profound connection to its unique setting. #CasaLuce #HKAssociates #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #ArizonaArchitecture #NaturalLightDesign #DesertLiving #SustainableDesign

This article offers an exclusive tour of interior designer Gil Walsh's home on Bankers Way in Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, showcasing her distinctive design aesthetic. Walsh, who has been in the interior design business for over 40 years, purchased the home two years prior to the article's publication. The original structure was built and designed by Patrick Ahearn Architects, with Walsh and her team subsequently adding custom touches that reflect her signature style, characterized by careful attention to detail, strategic pops of color, and a blend of antique and custom-made pieces. The tour begins with the 'party barn,' a detached building featuring a cupola and weathervane. This space, originally a concrete garage, was transformed into a spacious sitting room with hand-laid brick floors, pine and floor-to-ceiling beadboard paneling. It is adorned with repurposed antiques and vintage displays, demonstrating Walsh's ability to integrate diverse elements into a cohesive design. An upstairs office within the barn serves as a workspace for Walsh and her project manager, Julie Sierputoski, highlighting the detailed craftsmanship evident in elements like a perfectly sculpted handrail. Architectural details in this area were enhanced by Joseph W. Dick-Architecture Inc., with Timothy McHugh Builders and Arthur Sierputoski Contractors also contributing to the project. The outdoor area includes a pool, garden, and porch, framed by two trellises that create a 'secret garden' atmosphere. An elliptical window further enhances the architectural appeal. Inside the main house, the living spaces are a testament to Walsh's mastery of detail. The dining room features six upholstered chairs stenciled with a vine and leaf pattern, custom-cut antique pieces, an English setter weathervane by Travis Tuck, and Christopher Spitzmiller lamps in the living room. The design maintains a tactile symmetry, where individual elements, though varied, contribute to a harmonious whole. The kitchen is equipped with marble quartz countertops, built-in cabinetry, a six-burner Wolf range, and white beadboard paneling with crown molding. Sierputoski emphasizes the interplay of layers and colors throughout the home, designed to evoke a sense of happiness. The foyer showcases a willow table with seashell inlay from the south of France and a rug from Egypt, underscoring Walsh's global sourcing for unique pieces. The master suite, located on the first floor, is Walsh's favorite room. It features a light blue valance, a clean white comforter, and subtle pops of color from wall art and lampshades. Double doors provide access to the pool and porch. Walsh states that every room in her house is special, each possessing a unique architectural detail or a remarkable piece of furniture. The tour continues to the basement, which was transformed from a concrete space into a vibrant area with distinct rugs, an African tribal skirt, and antique sumo wrestler lamps. An ottoman covered with a red sari fabric demonstrates Walsh's creative use of materials to complement existing decor. Upstairs, another sitting room features upholstered furniture and intricate details, described as whimsical and elegant. The guest bedrooms each have a distinct theme: the 'queen room' with floral valances from a previous home, the 'blue twin room' with twin beds and a multicolored rug, and the 'needle point room' with pastel throw pillows and a Victorian writing desk. Walsh's approach to design often begins with a standout painting or carpet, or a compelling fabric, and she advises looking to nature for color inspiration. The article concludes by inviting readers to suggest other interesting Martha's Vineyard homes for future features in the 'Can we take a peek?' series. #GilWalshInteriors #EdgartownHome #InteriorDesign #MarthaSVineyard #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDetails #CustomDesign #AntiqueFurniture #LuxuryHomes

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

Tailored Home, an upscale design center, has opened its second location in Greenville, Delaware, taking over the space previously occupied by The Enchanted Owl at Two Greenville Crossing. The new store builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, which operated for over half a century, selling fine china and other home accoutrements. Starr Osborne, the founder of Tailored Home, identified a strong market in Chateau Country for her design services and retail offerings, drawing parallels between Greenville's sophisticated clientele and that of her successful first location in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. Osborne’s business portfolio also includes Philadelphia’s first home-staging firm and a white-glove relocation service. Her decision to expand into Greenville was prompted by the retirement of The Enchanted Owl's owner, Louise Hoffman, creating an opportunity to fill a void in the local luxury retail landscape. The Greenville store offers access to design services through its Chestnut Hill counterpart, ensuring a comprehensive approach to home aesthetics for its patrons. The store continues to embrace tradition by offering a bridal registry that combines personalized consultation with a digital platform. Despite a general shift towards more casual entertaining since The Enchanted Owl first opened in 1971, Tailored Home observes a continued demand for traditional fine goods. Osborne, an interior designer by profession, emphasizes the importance of setting a beautiful table for any occasion, aiming to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests and encouraging the regular use of quality items. Among the legacy brands carried by Tailored Home are Herend, a porcelain manufacturer favored by royalty such as Queen Victoria and Princess Diana, as well as Simon Pearce and Mottahedeh, all of which were previously staples at The Enchanted Owl. In an expansion of its product range, Tailored Home has also introduced bed and bath products, featuring luxury brands like Abyss & Habidecor, John Robshaw, Matouk, Pigeon and Poodle, and Sferra. This diversification reflects an effort to cater to a broader spectrum of home design needs while maintaining an emphasis on high-quality and luxurious goods. Starr Osborne, who holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from Yale University and was a fellow at Historic Deerfield, views her current work as a continuation of curating homes. Her philosophy centers on the belief that homes should be both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, serving as a cherished space for individuals to live and grow. The new Greenville location aims to provide residents with a destination for sophisticated home furnishings and design expertise. #HomeDesign #LuxuryRetail #GreenvilleDelaware #InteriorDesign #BridalRegistry #FineChina #HomeFurnishings #StarrOsborne #ChateauCountry

This article details the restoration of a historic Victorian-era homestead located in the Western District of Victoria, a region known for its scenic views and dairy farms. The project, led by interior designer Adelaide Bragg, focused on seamlessly blending the original character of the home with modern functionality, ensuring it serves both as a working rural property and a family hub for generations to come. The design brief emphasized practicality, warmth, and a welcoming atmosphere, steering away from anything overly delicate, given that the property is a working farm and frequently hosts family and grandchildren. The homestead's interior now features a calming palette of creams and clay reds, complemented by natural textures. Key elements include sturdy oak floorboards, antique furniture, and a significant art collection from the client. A primary challenge during the renovation was the house's dated configuration, which was not suitable for a modern family, and the lack of sufficient natural light. The renovation addressed these issues by undertaking extensive structural changes. The original back of the house was transformed into a light-filled, spacious front entrance, adorned with botanical fern prints and wool baskets. A large kitchen and family room extension was added, complete with a fireplace and an Aga stove, alongside a generous verandah to facilitate outdoor dining. Designing for a rural home involved specific considerations to honor its historical integrity while making it adaptable for contemporary living. The renovations maintain high ceilings, large-scale rooms, and simple joinery, ensuring a sympathetic approach to the existing structure. The completed home is characterized by an effortless elegance and timelessness, with design elements chosen to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. The dining area, for instance, features a large table and 16 chairs, which serve as a room divider and add textural depth. Kravet fabric on the chairs, referencing horse saddle blankets, and large-scale rooster paintings introduce playful touches. Old olive baskets repurposed as kitchen pendants create a unique focal point, while Monoleath benchtops offer a practical yet concrete-like finish. Oak floorboards, sisal rugs, and cow skins contribute to layering and a casual, inviting ambiance. The homestead's design also integrates with its rural surroundings, offering magnificent views of rolling hills, red gum trees, and the Grampians. The selection of fittings and finishes was guided by the need to be sympathetic to the home's heritage. For example, Sandberg ‘Waldemar’ wallpaper from Ascraft in the powder room was chosen to reflect the oak trees in the garden, and a guest bedroom features a cane bench covered in Lisa Fine ‘Jaisalmer’ fabric from Ascraft. The owners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, confirming that the entire house is now utilized as intended, embodying a successful blend of old-world charm and modern family living. #HomesteadRestoration #InteriorDesign #RuralLiving #VictorianArchitecture #FamilyHome #AdelaideBragg #HomeRenovation #VictorianHomestead

Interior designer Lexi Brandfon of Lex & Hudson undertook a project to refresh and furnish a freestanding early 20th-century Edwardian house in Ditmas Park for its new homeowners. The residence, despite its age, was in excellent condition, featuring well-maintained mechanical systems, recently updated kitchen and bathrooms, and original wood flooring. However, the clients found the abundant vintage woodwork overwhelming, prompting a design approach aimed at toning down these elements while introducing a more contemporary aesthetic. Brandfon's design philosophy prioritizes creating a warm atmosphere that respects the existing architecture, avoiding sterile or overly delicate spaces. A key inspiration for the interior scheme was the clients' affinity for the William Morris Snakeshead wallpaper pattern, dating back to 1876. The chosen green colorway of this wallpaper informed the decision to use forest green for the paneled walls in the dining room, while its warm neutral tones guided the selection of furniture throughout the house. To bridge the gap between the home's historic character and modern furnishings, Brandfon incorporated traditional elements like vintage rugs, which also served to introduce additional color into the scheme. The inclusion of accessories on open shelving, leather chairs, and existing architectural details such as wood and brick further contributed to the overall warmth of the space. The living room, measuring 27 feet in length and featuring two bay windows, presented a particular design challenge. Brandfon addressed this by conceptualizing the space as two distinct yet cohesive areas. The front portion of the living room was designated as a more formal seating area, highlighted by a ventless fireplace set within a Tadelakt plaster wall, serving as a central focal point. The section closer to the kitchen was designed as a more casual game and reading area, equipped with deep lounge seating from Four Hands. The intention was to create a convivial environment conducive to conversation, achieved through furniture placements like a curved sofa from Lee Industries, comfortable leather chairs, and a daybed from Croft House strategically positioned to facilitate interaction across the room. Practical additions included a newly upholstered window seat near the entry, complemented by a custom built-in designed to store coats, boxes, boots, and umbrellas, thereby managing clutter near the main entrance. New custom millwork was also incorporated, such as a unit with both open and closed storage, enhancing the functionality of the area surrounding the central staircase. In the dining room, an asymmetrical modern light fixture from Fair Design, a vintage table from Somerset House, and upholstered chairs from Bo Concept contributed to its aesthetic. For the kitchen, Lex & Hudson designed a mobile island on casters with an engineered stone top, offering versatility for use as a buffet in the dining area or even on the back deck, catering to the clients' entertaining needs. The primary bedroom was furnished with lamps from OKA and nightstands from Serena & Lily, while a West Elm nightstand in the teenage daughter's bedroom was revitalized with purple paint for a vibrant touch. #interiorDesign #homeRenovation #EdwardianArchitecture #customMillwork #DitmasPark #BrooklynHomes #LexAndHudson #vintageModern #furnishings

This article explores fourteen innovative and thoughtfully designed extensions that breathe new life into historic London residences, many of which are over a century old. These projects demonstrate how contemporary architectural approaches can integrate seamlessly with the existing character of Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian-era homes, often introducing open layouts, modern materials, and a strong connection to the outdoors. Each example highlights unique design challenges and creative solutions from various London-based architectural firms. One featured project, by Yellow Cloud Studio, details a 485-square-foot extension for a Victorian home in East London. This addition, necessitated by a growing family, includes a dining area, a spacious kitchen with a bespoke terrazzo island, and a second-level brick-clad section housing a guest room, study, and family bathroom. The design emphasizes a seamless indoor/outdoor connection through bifold doors, incorporating minimalist, brutalist-inspired elements like pale bricks and polished plaster alongside warm oak carpentry and brass accents. Turner Architects' renovation of a Georgian row house in disrepair showcases a low-slung, 45-foot-long extension. This addition features new dining, living, and kitchen spaces with a retractable wall of windows opening to a rear garden and a green roof. The interior is inspired by Dutch courtyard paintings, creating 'monastic spaces' that connect to the landscape and sky, notably with an enclosed courtyard featuring a single cherry tree separating the living room from the dining and kitchen areas. Another project involves Mitchell + Corti Architects expanding a terraced Victorian for a historian couple, focusing on creating more space for their children and extensive book collection. The 1,291-square-foot floor plan includes a rear extension with a circular skylight illuminating a floor-to-ceiling bookcase in the open-plan common area, designed with future renovations in mind. Archer + Braun drew inspiration from postwar brutalism for a Georgian-style home's renovation in Stepney Green, East London. The addition utilizes custom concrete matching the surrounding buildings and existing brick tones, with an exposed aggregate concrete floor and a skylight over the dining table creating an inviting space. Critical Architecture Network (CAN), led by Mat Barnes, transformed an Edwardian home with a postmodern glass-box addition topped by a foamed aluminum mountain range, inspired by Disneyland’s Matterhorn. The interior is equally imaginative, featuring kitchen cabinets made from recycled milk bottle tops and tiled steps displaying a family catchphrase. Amos Goldreich Architecture's 'Framework House' project for a London Victorian focused on transforming the ground level to create functional, light-filled spaces. An extension with exposed steel rafters and oak cladding incorporates permeable shelving as a room divider, providing distinct zones within an open-plan area. Studio Ben Allen implemented prefab elements in a four-day renovation of a Victorian terrace home, expanding the rear with a new kitchen and bathrooms swathed in green-, blue-, and red-pigmented concrete. Off-site construction was used for exterior and structural concrete, nonstructural concrete elements, and the balustrade, with an arch motif unifying the design. DGN Studio's renovation of a semidetached Victorian terrace near London Fields features a rear extension with exposed concrete and white-oiled oak. A lowered level at the back hosts the kitchen and dining room, accessed via concrete steps that double as seating, creating a grounded and robust base for various activities. Amos Goldreich Architecture also designed an extension for an avid gardener's Victorian mid-terrace house, where the design revolves around connecting to the garden. The rear extension includes a spacious kitchen with a terrazzo island and an enclosed winter garden featuring automated skylights and an irrigation system, allowing residents to enjoy plants year-round. Novak Hiles Architects added a 194-square-foot extension to a London terrace home, featuring an open-plan kitchen and dining area connecting to a split-level garden. The exterior is clad in pressed metal with a frieze of handmade ceramic tiles referencing Arts and Crafts. The interior incorporates muted earth tones, mirroring the outdoor greenery. Another project by Amos Goldreich Architecture involved remodeling a terraced Victorian brownstone for a couple with a newborn, adding a side extension with an enlarged kitchen and efficient storage solutions. Modified Ikea cabinets with plywood fronts and azure-and-birch trim demonstrate how a beautiful and unique home can be achieved on a budget. Architect Mat Barnes of CAN designed a playful extension for a Victorian terrace house in Brockley, South London, featuring an exterior with offset Douglas fir battens painted blue and gray. The interior, kept muted with bright white surfaces, incorporates glossy tiles from the exterior to clad a brick pillar in the kitchen and lounge area. Finally, DeDraft designed a mint-green aluminum extension for a 1920s London home, catering to the clients' preference for green. The interior features concrete floor tiles, concrete blockwork walls, exposed Douglas fir ceiling joists, and bespoke birch plywood cabinets, with natural light flooding in through a skylight and tall glass doors. Alison Brooks designed a 750-square-foot home office extending from a Victorian home for a design and photography firm. The angular addition, inspired by a camera aperture, is clad in Corian, with a sunken courtyard providing a side entrance and unique openings, including a skylight, to maximize natural light for staff. #LondonArchitecture #HomeExtensions #VictorianHomes #EdwardianHomes #GeorgianHomes #TerraceHouses #ModernAdditions #ArchitecturalRenovations #InteriorDesign