This Grade A-listed Georgian home in Edinburgh is elegant and colourful

The article details the transformation of a three-story, five-bedroom Georgian house in Devon, England, into a joyful and colorful summer retreat for a family of five. British designer Nicola Harding, who previously worked on the family's London residence, was commissioned for the project. The family desired a home radiating "love and joy." Initially, structural modifications were necessary to integrate the original, intimate spaces of the house with a newer, open-plan addition. Harding collaborated with Patrick Kinmonth, International Editor at Large for *World of Interiors*, to incorporate a glass extension, linking the historical structure with a former stable block. This addition seamlessly connects the entry and kitchen, creating a cohesive living space. The entry area of the house features a rustic stone wall and a reclaimed wooden dresser, juxtaposed with a modern glass ceiling and a contemporary neon sign. Beyond the entrance, the expansive area is cleverly divided into distinct zones, including a kitchen, dining space, and lounge, which flow into a sun-drenched orangery. Harding's design philosophy emphasizes creating a lived-in feel, as if the house evolved over time with cherished pieces acquired through travel or from friends. This approach is also highlighted in her first monograph, *Homing Instinct*. The kitchen is painted in a dusty pink shade called Nicaragua by Edward Bulmer, with a striking oxblood-red archway. A large scrub pine table is paired with sky-blue French chairs featuring red accents, with reversed colorways used in the orangery for continuity. Velvet furniture in mustard and navy hues adds vibrant touches, balanced by an ashy gray reclaimed stone fireplace. Harding describes color as the "language of feeling within a space," and stresses the importance of contrast in bringing a room to life. The kitchen integrates appliances discreetly, with the sink housed in a vintage dresser and the refrigerator concealed behind antique cabinetry, giving it the ambiance of a cozy loft rather than a functional workspace, enhanced by large windows overlooking the countryside. The upper floor includes a vibrant boys' room adorned with clover-patterned wallpaper, striped aqua and brown headboards, and bright yellow nightstands. In contrast, the primary bedroom offers a serene and romantic atmosphere, featuring a four-poster bed draped in sheer fabric, soft pink walls mirroring the kitchen's palette, and bedside tables skirted in a chocolate-striped fabric, topped with antique lamps. A hand-dyed cotton dhurrie rug adds texture and a sense of history to the floor. The Devon retreat reflects the family's desire for a lighthearted, connected, and comfortable lifestyle, embodying Harding's aim to create a space filled with warmth and positive emotions. #InteriorDesign #GeorgianArchitecture #EnglishCountryside #HomeRenovation #ColorPalette #NicolaHarding #DesignPhilosophy #LuxuryHome #FamilyRetreat

Octavia Dickinson, a renowned interior designer, created a vibrant and welcoming Georgian London townhouse for a couple who frequently entertain guests. The design prioritizes sociability, featuring two entrances to the kitchen for optimal flow and drinks cabinets on both the ground-floor sitting room and the first-floor drawing room, enabling entertainment across multiple levels. Dickinson's signature layered decorating style is evident throughout the home, characterized by deep sofas, tactile fabrics, and soft, diffused lighting, contributing to an overarching sense of warmth and comfort. The homeowner, a first-time buyer, was drawn to Dickinson's playful and joyful aesthetic, aligning with her own upbringing in colorful homes. The client's significant art collection was also a key consideration, with Dickinson, an art history expert, meticulously integrating these pieces into the various schemes. She often determines artwork placement once the room's design is complete, advocating for the flexibility to move pieces around as desired. While renovations of the Grade II-listed townhouse were already underway when Dickinson joined the project, with the architect handling the kitchen extension, joinery, and bathrooms, Dickinson introduced strategic adjustments. In the kitchen, she fine-tuned the cabinetry, commissioning low cabinets and wall shelves from a craftsman, painted in a bright turquoise to contrast with the coral-pink walls. Frilled lampshades and upholstered dining chairs further softened the space. Dickinson frequently begins a design scheme with a particular fabric. For the first-floor drawing room, an exuberant floral fabric was chosen for the sofa, which required craning through a window. The same fabric was extended to the blind in the adjoining snug, a cozy space separated from the drawing room by theatrical circus-striped curtains. These curtains are lined with fabric matching the snug's wallpaper, creating an enveloping effect when drawn. A similar cozy atmosphere was achieved in the main bedroom with half-tester drapes featuring an exquisite floral pattern. Decorating with antiques is integral to Dickinson's richly layered approach, incorporating sumptuously patterned rugs, arresting wall sconces, and mirrors. The search for specific pieces often takes time, as exemplified by the striking glazed mahogany bookcase in the drawing room, which serves as one of the drinks cabinets. Despite being one of the last items sourced, its precise measurements were crucial to fit the available space without encroaching on circulation, illustrating Dickinson's belief in waiting for the perfect piece to complete a design. #GeorgianTownhouse #LondonHome #InteriorDesign #OctaviaDickinson #SociableSpaces #LayeredDecorating #ArtIntegration #AntiquesInDesign #ColorfulInteriors

The article details the comprehensive restoration of a Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse in London, a property that had remained untouched for eight decades. Creative director Mike Fisher of Studio Indigo led the architectural redesign, transforming the building into a modern home while preserving its historical integrity. The project aimed to infuse modernity into the 1820s structure, which retained many original architectural features despite suffering minor bomb damage during the 1940s. Nathalie Hirst, the homeowner and a property buyer, actively contributed to the design process, emphasizing the importance of selecting features that would enhance the property's value and create a special atmosphere. The renovation prioritized maximizing space, a crucial aspect given the townhouse's compact size of under 3,000 square feet. This was achieved by opening up connections between rooms, creating seamless views to the garden, and optimizing the layout to make the interior feel larger than its actual dimensions. Key structural changes included extending and opening up the ground floor to create a cohesive kitchen, sitting, and dining area, forming the heart of the home. The original form of the closet wing was preserved, and existing spaces were reconfigured to incorporate en-suite bathrooms. These new additions were designed with a modern aesthetic that remained sensitive to the house's historic character, avoiding overly contemporary elements that might clash with its Georgian roots. The restoration also involved reinstating and refurbishing period details such as paneling, cornices, skirtings, and architraves, ensuring that the historical essence of the building was maintained. Mike Fisher and Nathalie Hirst collaborated with interior designer Dominique Bonino for the decor. Bonino focused on curating Hirst's existing furniture and art pieces, blending them with new selections to achieve a timeless, transitional style. The chosen color palette for the interior was fresh and light, reflecting the Georgian period, with accents of yellow, green, blue, and ochre introduced through furniture and soft furnishings. The objective was to create an inviting and cozy environment that was functional for daily living, allowing Nathalie's heirloom pieces to shine while complementing them with carefully chosen contemporary elements. The design philosophy emphasized mixing modern and traditional pieces to create a balanced, enduring aesthetic, avoiding overly dark colors to maintain an airy feel while incorporating rich fabrics and exquisite patterns to add character without appearing bland. #GeorgianTownhouse #HomeRestoration #TransitionalStyle #InteriorDesign #LondonProperty #HistoricRenovation #SpaceOptimization #PeriodFeatures #ColorPalette

The article highlights the home of Kat Rogers in Birmingham, Alabama, showcasing how designer Caroline Gidiere transformed the space by integrating family antiques with contemporary touches. Kat Rogers, facing a new home and an upcoming dinner party, enlisted Gidiere's help to furnish her dining room, primarily using pieces inherited from her aunt who was downsizing. This initial collaboration set the tone for decorating the entire house, as Rogers had access to a trove of sentimental family furniture, which Gidiere skillfully incorporated into each room. The design philosophy employed in Rogers' home aligns with the 'grandmillennial' style, a growing trend that blends traditional aesthetics, often featuring inherited or antique items, with modern elements. Gidiere explains that this style resonates with many, particularly after recent global events, as it encourages a return to roots and a preference for meaningful, historical pieces over new, custom-made furniture that might involve long lead times. Kat Rogers expresses deep appreciation for this approach, finding joy and heritage in seeing her grandmother's beloved items actively used and cherished in her own home. The article details several key design strategies Gidiere used throughout the house. In the dining room, for instance, Gidiere refreshed antique furniture with vibrant colors and patterns, including new seat covers and floral wallpaper, and introduced contemporary accents to reflect Rogers' personality. For the foyer, Gidiere requested a chest of drawers and two chairs, which Rogers sourced from family members, allowing Gidiere to enhance them with lively hues and prints. This process of incorporating existing family pieces continued across various rooms, each time revitalized with Gidiere's design expertise. Specific examples of Gidiere's work include the integration of a chest of drawers with intricate inlay work alongside a French mirror, Central Asian-inspired prints, and a mid-century-style chandelier, demonstrating a balance between traditional and modern elements. In the kitchen, Gidiere modernized a 1990s layout while maintaining a classic feel by adding beaded board backsplashes, cabinet brackets, and latch-style hardware, complementing the existing antiques. A new built-in bar area was also added to facilitate entertaining. The dining room, almost entirely furnished with handed-down pieces, achieves cohesion through a scenic wallpaper and a consistent blue color scheme, with a custom-colored chandelier chosen to match the draperies and rug. Gidiere emphasizes her intuitive approach to design, mixing various styles of lamps and furniture legs to create an eclectic yet harmonious environment. The 'adult den' features a screen from Rogers' mother's house as its centerpiece, around which Gidiere built the room's design with a blue color palette encompassing painted ceilings, grass cloth walls, and a performance velvet sectional, ensuring the space is both stylish and family-friendly. Pattern play is another significant aspect of Gidiere's design, guided by her philosophy that 'more is less when it comes to prints' – meaning a bolder use of patterns can sometimes make them blend in more seamlessly. This is evident in a younger daughter's room with a sophisticated yet playful wallpaper and in the primary bedroom, where Brunschwig & Fils wallpaper was chosen to complement existing turquoise armchairs. Even the screened porch was updated by refreshing antique iron furniture, swapping a wood tabletop for glass, and adding warm woven accents, using vintage textile patterns like 'Chrysanthemum by Tillett' for upholstery to tie everything together. The overall design successfully marries the past with the present, creating a home that is rich in history and personal meaning. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #GrandmillennialStyle #FamilyAntiques #BirminghamHome #CarolineGidiere #SentimentalStyle #TraditionalDecor #ModernEclecticism

The owner of a two-bedroom London maisonette, Gemma Edwards, who frequently travels for work with a government conservation agency, opted to hire interior designer Sean Symington to transform her home. Edwards sought a unique and non-standard interior, explaining her desire to avoid a “cookie-cutter” look and her focus on enjoyable aesthetic changes rather than extensive structural renovations. Symington, known for his adept use of color and pattern, was selected to invigorate the apartment. The living room, despite its inherent character, was previously described as dull and lacked a central feature. Symington addressed this by introducing a fireplace surround and incorporating alcove shelving, which served both as a focal point and provided display and storage options. A marble mantelpiece, sourced from a reclamation yard, enhances the room's coziness, particularly when candles are lit, despite not being a functional fireplace. The room features watermelon velvet sofas from Sofa.com and an armchair upholstered in an animal spot velvet. Edwards's existing Dashiki curtain fabric was adapted for the south-facing living room, with Sean lengthening them using an additional panel, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new curtains. The room also benefits from a small balcony, providing a pleasant outdoor space for morning coffee and a developing potted garden, accommodating Edwards's busy schedule that limits traditional gardening. In the kitchen and bathroom, the strategy focused on redecorating rather than replacing existing fixtures and appliances, which were of good quality, to avoid waste. Edwards prioritized investing in fabrics and furniture, elements she could potentially take with her if she were to move. The kitchen now boasts soft, earthy red walls contrasting with dark blue cupboards and a chequerboard floor. Radiators were painted to match the walls, a budget-friendly solution. A matching Roman blind and sink skirt introduce softness, and vintage dining chairs were reupholstered. The narrow hallway was not overlooked in the decorative scheme. One wall features a gallery of framed prints, each without a backing to expose the wall behind. The radiator is cleverly concealed by a fabric skirt and a shelf, providing both style and utility. The main bedroom showcases a vibrant palette of emerald and mustard, combined with natural materials. A half-tester over the bed creates a bold statement, complemented by a classic William Morris print wallpaper. Table lamps from Pooky and smaller reading lights with scalloped seagrass shades adorn wicker-topped bedside tables. Fitted wardrobes, painted in Bancha by Farrow & Ball to match the woodwork, include both panelled doors and open shelves, aiding in creating a sense of spaciousness, with Ikea baskets used for storage. The home office underwent a significant transformation from an unliked baby blue to a warmer Farrow & Ball India Yellow. This color provides a suitable backdrop for a painting and a kilim rug, a souvenir from Edwards's time working in Africa. An antique desk from Vinterior and practical shelves with decorative scalloped edging complete the space. Edwards expresses her satisfaction with the final result, highlighting how each room now possesses a distinct character and individual color scheme, attributing the elevated aesthetic to the paint colors and fabrics chosen with Symington's expertise. #LondonMaisonette #InteriorDesign #ColorfulHome #PatternedDecor #BudgetDecorating #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeOfficeIdeas #Renovation #SeanSymington

Louise Roe, a television presenter, fashion journalist, and author, relocated from Los Angeles to Oxfordshire, England, with her husband, Mackenzie Hunkin, and their daughter, Honor. They settled into an 1819 Georgian farmhouse, which Roe felt an immediate connection to. Having envisioned her ideal home design for years, Roe embarked on a six-month renovation project after securing a highly-regarded contractor. The initial 12 weeks of renovation focused on essential tasks before the family moved in, including gutting the kitchen, relocating plumbing fixtures, and replacing floors. A significant discovery during this phase was the uncovering of original Victorian tiles beneath the flagstones in the entryway, which delighted Roe and required minimal restoration. Roe deliberately maintained the original layout of the farmhouse, with the exception of raising a doorway. She appreciated the distinct zones created by the existing structure, each serving a unique purpose and possessing its own character. For the kitchen, she prioritized specific finishes, opting for British Standard cabinets painted in a sage green to integrate with the natural surroundings. Other key elements included an extra-deep Irish farmhouse sink beneath a window and an AGA stove, which Roe had always desired and learned to cook on. Despite objections from family and tradesmen regarding the room's narrowness, Roe insisted on an island, commissioning a custom high table made from the same wood as the floors, providing valuable workspace. Counter stools from their Los Angeles home were upholstered in water-resistant Peter Dunham fabric. An adjacent breakfast nook was transformed into a playroom for Honor, featuring a vibrant curry yellow, a color Roe had long admired. Edward Bulmer, a paint expert, provided guidance on historical color choices for various rooms. The drawing room, the grandest space, was painted in a brick hue that shifts appearance with the light. Roe also undertook the project of commissioning a new ceiling rose to replicate the original, which had been removed. She intentionally designed this room without a television, focusing seating around the fireplace and adding floor lamps with ground-level electrical sockets. A bureau desk, her most significant indulgence, now serves as her workspace in this room. The television was placed in a compact snug, a British term for a media room, featuring built-in cabinets for electronics and book display. Roe, an avid reader, designed this room with floor-to-ceiling shelves. The joinery in the snug was painted in a high-gloss muddy brown, a color her painter initially disliked but later appreciated as it transformed into a rich dark green, complementing her collection of old Penguin Classics. This same custom cabinetry was extended to her dressing room, where a dusty rose paint matched a fringed ottoman. A small powder room showcases blue Nina Campbell wallpaper, artwork, and mirrors, creating a nostalgic feel reminiscent of their California life. Matching roman shades integrate with the traditional English farmhouse style, while an oversized Slim Aarons photograph adds a playful touch. A guest bathroom features floral Cole & Son wallpaper, with a bright cherry red from the pattern used for the window covering and sconce shades. Roe intentionally retained the hardwood floor to ground the vibrant colors. Another guest room in blush tones incorporates a green and white fabric from Soane for curtains and a scalloped headboard, coordinating with the adjacent teal bathroom, which was updated with a historically accurate claw-foot tub. Roe's favorite bedroom, destined for her daughter, is nestled in the eaves and adorned with Pierre Frey wallpaper and a matching headboard pattern, a design she had admired for years. She also shared her go-to vintage shop, local home stores, plant and gardening supplier, and online home store, emphasizing her love for books and her Oka sofas, and her desire to experience the house's first Christmas centuries ago. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GeorgianFarmhouse #ColorPalette #CustomCabinetry #VintageFinds #BritishInteriors #HomeDecor #FamilyHome

Sarah Peake, founder of Studio Peake, showcases one of her most cherished interior design projects: a double-fronted Georgian cottage in South London. This project was particularly significant as it marked her first solo endeavor after establishing her studio. The cottage, located on a wisteria-filled terrace, previously featured an industrial aesthetic dominated by black and grey, and an unsympathetic 1980s rear extension. The initial phase of the project involved extensive renovation to restore original architectural elements such as architraves, doors, skirtings, cornices, and radiators, which had been lost or altered over time. The clients, who had moved into the house after their honeymoon, lived there for six months to understand its nuances before commissioning Peake. Their brief was to create a vibrant, distinctive, yet comfortable and cozy home. The kitchen, rather than being completely replaced, underwent a significant refresh to combine existing features with new additions. A new limestone floor, Lanyan Limestone by Artisans of Devizes, was installed, and the existing joinery was painted in a custom green matched by Dulux. Carrara marble replaced the laminate countertops, and new drawer handles were sourced from Lassco reclamation yard. A French polisher from Portobello Painters restored the timber cupboards, while a custom floor paint from Papers and Paints and 'Stone I' from Paint and Paper Library were used for the walls. To introduce coziness, soft furnishings were added, including curtain fabric from Namay Samay with a Samuel & Sons fringe, an A Rum Fellow rug, an embroidered cushion from William Yeoward, and a white lamp from Porta Romana, effectively balancing the hard surfaces. In the main living space, a bespoke yellow paint color, mixed by Papers and Paint, was chosen for the walls, extending the painted wooden floor from the kitchen. A colorful rug from Ornate Rugs complemented the vibrant walls. A fireplace surround made of Bardiglio marble from Jamb and a chandelier from The English House were key features. The client's appreciation for art was evident with a William Crozier painting from Piano Nobile displayed above the fireplace. The design aimed for an interesting yet unoverbearing space through a mix of patterns, plains, and finishes. A small, low-ceilinged area at the back was transformed into a cozy nook with bespoke TV and bookcase joinery by Billy Crawshaw, carpeted with Tim Page Claremont, and featuring a David Seyfried chair upholstered in Fermoie fabric with Besselink & Jones wall lights. The master bedroom, described as Peake’s favorite, achieved a balance of color and tranquility. The walls and joinery were painted in Fencing Blue by Papers and Paint Library. Curtain fabric from Lasso by Pierre Frey and a Kelly Wearstler headboard with Romo Linara piping were incorporated. A painting by Venetia Berry, already owned by the client, served as the color palette's foundation for the room. Bed linen from Gayle Warwick Siena, a throw from Once Milano, and a custom cushion made from Guy Goodfellow fabric with a Samuel and Sons fringe completed the space. Moving to the landing and stairs, the entrance hall was designed as a crucial introduction to the house. Sanderson ‘Hemp’ wallpaper provided a muted backdrop, contrasting with the more defined colors in adjacent rooms. The French polisher from Portobello Painters restored the handrail, and Edward Bulmer’s Celadon paint was used on architraves and doors. An antique chair, a Sarah Balme painting, a mid-century chandelier from Pamono, and a white lamp from Porta Romana adorned the half-landing. For the guest bedroom, situated opposite the main bedroom, the focus was on the view of the bed. A shaped headboard by Pat Giddens Ltd, upholstered in Holland and Sherry fabric, was a central element, complemented by Afghan hats from Etsy above the bed. Hand-dyed velvet cushions by Kirsten Hecktermann and a custom-embroidered rectangular cushion from A Rum Fellow added luxurious touches. An antique pedestal desk was brightened with modern pieces, including a Benchmark chair upholstered in Vaughan and Holly Hunt fabrics, a raspberry lacquered lamp from Salvesen Graham, and a gathered silk shade by Penny Morrison. Finally, the tiny box room underwent a significant transformation. Previously painted black with acid green wallpaper and a low, angled ceiling, it was re-envisioned with a ‘bed nook’ to maximize standing height. Billy Crawshaw paneled the walls with MDF, painting them in Edward Bulmer’s Fair Blue. Ottoline Devries’ wallpaper and fabric were used within the bed nook, along with Samuel and Sons contrast piping and Colefax and Fowler roman blind borders. A bookcase above the headboard and a wall light replaced a traditional bedside setup. The bathroom, largely preserved due to its existing good condition, received subtle enhancements using leftover stone and marble, Edward Bulmer Celadon paint on woodwork, a touch of Soane wallpaper, and a rattan mirror from Kempton Racecourse, demonstrating that minor changes can have a major impact. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #GeorgianCottage #StudioPeake #SouthLondon #Renovation #ColorfulInteriors #CozyHome #ArchitecturalRestoration

In Mountain Brook, Birmingham, an 11-year-old Georgian-style house, designed by architect James F. Carter and decorated by owner Caroline Gidiere, has become a local sensation, drawing admirers for its distinctive design and paint colors. The residence stands out amidst older English-style homes, characterized by its strict Georgian proportions and enchanting gardens, often leading strangers to inquire about its aesthetic choices. Caroline Gidiere, initially a lawyer with a latent passion for design, embarked on this project after she and her husband, Stephen, purchased a dilapidated house. Believing it was a fixer-upper, they soon learned from Carter that it was beyond repair. This unexpected turn led Gidiere to articulate her vision for a new home, drawing inspiration from the George Wythe House in Colonial Williamsburg, a place she visited annually since childhood. Her affinity for the 1750s structure's symmetry and balance was a guiding principle in the design process. Gidiere's personal vision was so clear that she opted to forgo an interior designer, collaborating directly with Carter. Her design philosophy embraces traditional elements alongside vibrant patterns and colors. The foyer, for instance, features Chinese blue-and-white exportware. The living room boasts sofas with ruffled slipcovers in Colefax and Fowler's Bowood fabric, harmoniously paired with Kentian consoles and a games table from the Paris Flea Market. The dining room is adorned with hand-painted chinoiserie wallpaper in a midtone green, cleverly concealing storage closets. The home's color palette, while bold, maintains an elegant balance, creating a joyous and cohesive atmosphere. An example is the lavender sofa with pink and aqua pillows in the kitchen and family room, complemented by a bright orange banquette and a pleated lampshade crafted from an orange silk sari. Hot-orange millwork contrasts with traditional chocolate brown cabinetry in the bar area, preventing any sense of stuffiness. This integration of color underscores the home's connection to nature, both indoors and out, facilitating a seamless flow between spaces designed for entertaining and daily family life. Stephen Gidiere played a significant role in the landscape design, working with Randy McDaniel to select plants and maintain the gardens. He personally tends to the dahlia garden, espaliered hornbeams and fruit trees, and myrtle topiaries, viewing it as both a hobby and a stress reliever. Caroline Gidiere's immersion in the decorating process, including mundane tasks like hardware selection, eventually led Stephen to secretly file her incorporation papers and secure her decorating license, encouraging her to pursue her passion professionally. She subsequently transitioned from law to a successful career in interior design, exceeding her own expectations. #GeorgianArchitecture #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CarolineGidiere #AlabamaHomes #TraditionalDesign #ColorPalette #GardenDesign #DesignInspiration

This article showcases the transformation of a 1918 brick Georgian home in Greenwich, Connecticut, into an ultimate entertaining space, spearheaded by interior designer Shazalynn Cavin-Winfrey and architect William Hellow. The owners desired a colorful and collected aesthetic that conveyed happiness, leading to an imaginative, elegant, and vibrant design throughout the house. The tour begins with a high-octane dining room, emphasizing deep, layered colors and magical lighting. Key features include a luminous silver-leafed ceiling that reflects light, high-gloss trim custom-matched to the velvet walls, and Baltic blue velvet upholstery that provides a regal feel and excellent acoustics for dinner parties. Abstract art from the owners' collection adds a personal touch and breaks the formality, while a late-18th-century mahogany sideboard with gold details complements the Georgian style and offers practical heat resistance with its marble top. The powder room, presenting a geometric challenge due to an off-center leaded-glass window, was elegantly resolved with Ralph Lauren silk wallpaper in pinstripes and a marble chevron floor. Playful antique parrot sconces and a Lucite-and-gold sink base introduce a hint of fun without compromising sophistication. The kitchen is designed to work the crowd, featuring prime seating, intriguing collections, and an easy flow for mingling. A mohair banquette framed in walnut offers a comfortable and virtually indestructible gathering spot. Globe lighting, re-created from a Los Angeles find, adds a touch of retro charm, blending playfully with the room's rectilinear layout. White stone walls provide a clean contrast to reclaimed walnut islands, which appear aged and symmetric. Double islands, one equipped with an ice machine, sink, and beverage drawer, enhance functionality and balance in the voluminous space. A coffered ceiling, custom-matched to the cabinetry, ensures harmony, while a corner cabinet with British metal mesh offers light, period-appropriate vertical storage that accents gold elements. The French Lacanche range, trimmed in brass and nickel, serves as the kitchen's centerpiece, inspiring a custom hood with beautifully detailed rivets. The bar area, originally a sunroom, was transformed into an intimate formal bar. It features a copper cupola and an octagonal laser-cut marble floor pattern, echoing the cupola's shape. Green lacquer walls, ceiling, and cabinetry are illuminated by penlights, creating a festive sheen and a solarium-like atmosphere with a 360-degree garden view. Guest rooms are designed with gusto, using layered patterns for a cozy, timeless, yet pleasing aesthetic. An example includes a blue plaid with cream and gold stripes, offering a fresh take on classic patterns. Another feminine bedroom showcases a bold bargello rug contrasting with traditional pink pagoda prints on walls, windows, and bed upholstery, all complemented by luxurious yet manageable bed linens. This comprehensive design approach ensures every space is not only beautiful but also perfectly suited for frequent entertaining. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #EntertainingSpace #GeorgianHome #LuxuryDecor #DiningRoom #KitchenDesign #BarArea #GuestBedrooms

This article details the extensive restoration of a Georgian cottage in Barbon, South Cumbria, by Rachel and David Ellershaw. The couple initially overlooked the property due to its condition and price but were ultimately charmed by its period features and potential. After purchasing the two-bedroom terraced cottage, built in 1800, in August 2010, they embarked on a major renovation project that transformed both the house and their lives. The renovation began in June 2011, starting with the upper floor to allow more time to save for structural work on the ground floor. The avocado bathroom suite was replaced, and its layout reconfigured to include a freestanding bath and shower. In 2012, attention shifted to the bedrooms, with the master bedroom undergoing significant changes, including the reinstallation of a chimney, a new fireplace sourced from eBay, a cast-iron radiator, and varnished floorboards. The guest room required less intervention. The most challenging phase involved the ground floor, where the couple discovered original Yorkstone flags beneath the carpet, which became a focal point. They removed the wall separating the cramped galley kitchen and the former living room to create a spacious open-plan kitchen-diner. This structural alteration also necessitated pulling down much of the old lath and plaster ceiling. A wood-burning stove was relocated to the inglenook fireplace in the new sitting room, and an Aga was installed in the kitchen. New sash windows were fitted at the front of the cottage, and a lean-to conservatory was replaced with a newly built one, with David Ellershaw actively participating in its construction alongside a joiner. Throughout the renovation, the Ellershaws made conscious design choices to enhance the cottage's character and functionality. The exterior was repainted, and the garden landscaped with a cobblestone path, lavender, and bay trees to enhance symmetry. Interior finishes included Farrow & Ball paints such as 'Mole’s Breath,' 'Purbeck Stone,' 'Old White,' 'Clunch,' 'Light Blue,' 'Pointing,' and 'Castle Gray.' The kitchen was fitted with Lacewing Green crackle glaze tiles from Marlborough Tiles and granite worktops from Westmorland Stone. Furnishings were carefully selected from retailers like Laura Ashley, and custom artwork was commissioned. The restoration not only resulted in a charming home but also inspired David to launch his own property renovation company, Ellershaw Property Renovation. #GeorgianCottage #HomeRestoration #CountryCharm #OpenPlanLiving #PeriodFeatures #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeImprovement #YorkshireDales

This blog post explores the transformation of a historic colonial revival home dating back to 1895 in Newton Center, Massachusetts. The owners sought to update their property with a glamorous, sexy, and elegant aesthetic, while simultaneously restoring and enhancing its original architectural features. The project aimed to integrate sympathetic interior décor with a contemporary flair from the 2020s. Before addressing the design details, the primary challenge involved removing uncomplimentary architectural additions from the 1940s, 80s, and 90s, particularly a deteriorating 1980s kitchen. Designer Cecilia Casagrande was commissioned to address these challenges, focusing on enhancing the home's original architecture while adapting it for modern living. Her approach successfully blended original period details with quirky and glamorous contemporary touches. The kitchen redesign, for instance, drew inspiration from the client’s Turkish Iznik pottery collection and antique rugs, transforming a drab 1980s space into a bright, open area. The design incorporated a mix of midcentury, antique, and modern elements, evident in pairings like a midcentury side table with a modern bed frame, or a curved sofa with modern lamps. The breakfast nook features an antique pedestal table and vintage dining chairs, harmonizing with the updated kitchen. The cabinet colors, specifically Farrow & Ball’s Paean Black and Benjamin Moore’s Yorktowne Green, were inspired by the blue hues of the Turkish plate collection. The kitchen also boasts vintage rugs from Afghanistan, brass taps by Barber Wilson, and handmade tiles from Winchester Tile in England, along with green stone accents, contributing to a worldly and earthy feel. The living room, characterized by intricate wood detailing and an impressive bay window, features walls, trim, and ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue. This bold color choice maintains the modernity of the ornate trim while creating a cozy Victorian parlor ambiance. Natural walnut elements on doors and trim are highlighted with a clear poly finish. The room includes a midcentury vintage sofa upholstered in mohair blue velvet, complemented by a rounded Jonathan Adler Danner sofa and Kelly Wearstler lamps to create a “sexy vibe.” Midcentury furnishings, such as a reupholstered Thayer Coggin swivel chair and a new Thayer Coggin Roxy chair, along with a round midcentury pi-coffee table and Moroccan inlaid side tables, contribute to a global aesthetic through eclectic accessories sourced internationally. A vibrant artwork by Hunt Slonem in a gilt frame and a vintage carved sideboard add glamour to a corner of the living room. The dining room reflects the clients' vision with quirky contemporary elements like Cole & Son Leopard Walk wallpaper and a stag chandelier sourced from Germany. Iconic midcentury Saarinen chairs and a stunning Suzani tablecloth complete the eclectic and joyful space, which is described as Victorian modern. The upstairs landing serves as an inviting seating area, utilizing natural light from an original gothic-detailed 1895 window and featuring French-style armchairs and a chess set. The primary bedroom showcases pastel pinks, blending antique, vintage, and modern furnishings. Brass elements, such as Sarreid chests, an antique mirror, and an Alexa Hampton ceiling light, add character. Walls are painted in Farrow & Ball's Middleton Pink with trim in Dove Tail, while House of Hackney and Timorous Beasties pillows, a modern champagne velvet bed, and a faux sheepskin swivel chair balance the vintage pieces. The bathroom features a Penhaglion cast iron tub in unlacquered brass, a striking choice for the historic home, complemented by classic marble tiles, Timorous Beasties curtains, and brass accents, offering a modern twist on traditional design. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the transformation, noting that each room was thoughtfully designed and inspired by their existing collections, making the renovation a collaborative effort from architectural restoration to fabric selection. The project successfully honored the home's original features while introducing contemporary humor and subtle updates. #HistoricHomeRenovation #ColonialRevival #InteriorDesign #BoldColorSchemes #VictorianModern #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDecor #BedroomIdeas #BathroomDesign

The Tlustosch family's Edina residence exemplifies a harmonious blend of European-inspired design and modern functionality, meticulously crafted to integrate seamlessly into an established neighborhood while catering to a young, growing family. Initially, the home's distinctive black exterior might appear unconventional amidst its white and gray counterparts in Edina, but it has become a defining and much-appreciated feature. This color choice, along with a steep gable roof and low eaves, draws inspiration from classic German and Scandinavian architecture, providing the home with character and ensuring it doesn't overshadow adjacent properties. Colby Mattson, lead designer at Charlie & Co. Design, emphasized the importance of this sensitive approach, aiming to avoid oversized structures that cast large shadows. The owners, Ryan and Becca Tlustosch, observed this design philosophy during their travels in Europe, particularly in Germany, where exteriors often blend with historical surroundings while interiors are thoroughly modern. This principle guided the design of their Edina home. Upon entering, the house reveals an open-plan main level, designed to maximize natural light and views through to the backyard. Ten-foot-tall ceilings and an open-design 'floating' staircase enhance the sense of spaciousness. The interior palette is predominantly white, extending to walls, trim, built-in bookcases, windows, countertops, backsplashes, and most kitchen cabinets, creating a bright and contemporary feel. White oak is used for the remaining kitchen cabinets, adding a touch of warmth that prevents the all-white scheme from feeling too sterile, especially during Minnesota winters. A prominent feature is the herringbone-patterned white oak floor, a design choice inspired by European aesthetics that imparts a timeless quality to the modern interior. Despite the higher cost associated with its labor-intensive installation, the Tlustosches prioritized these floors, considering them a non-negotiable element. Bill Costello, project director for Elevation Homes, oversaw the construction, including the precise installation and staining of the floors by craftsman Steve Belrose, recognizing their significant impact on the main level's aesthetic. The floors were also chosen for their durability, reflecting Becca's desire for a welcoming home where guests and family, including their young children, don't need to worry about being overly cautious. Interior designer Lucy Penfield played a crucial role in curating the family's wish list while introducing unexpected design elements. Furnishings were selected for both style and practicality, such as the easy-to-clean green Verner Panton dining chairs and the spill-resistant handmade Turkish wool rugs from Aubry Angelo. The house also features a cozy 'away room,' which serves as an office and a quiet retreat, incorporating a sentimental avocado-green chair belonging to Becca’s grandfather. Cabinet fronts discreetly conceal kitchen appliances, and Caesarstone quartz countertops extend down the island sides, contributing to a tailored look. Clerestory windows near bookcases further augment natural light. The overall design successfully marries a sophisticated yet playful aesthetic with the functional demands of a lively family home, ensuring it is well-integrated into its community for the long term. #EdinaHome #EuropeanInspiredDesign #ModernInterior #OpenConceptLiving #HerringboneFloors #FamilyFriendlyDesign #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalHarmony #CustomHome

Interior designer Rachel Reider embarked on the renovation of her own 1912 Georgian Revival home in West Roxbury after residing in it for several years. With nearly two decades of experience running her firm, Reider + Co, she found the process of designing her personal space uniquely challenging, often feeling like her own most difficult client due to the vast array of choices she encounters professionally. Her primary desire for her home's interior was an abundant use of color, envisioning a layered design with a cohesive jewel-toned palette throughout, deliberately avoiding a neutral aesthetic. The renovation focused on infusing vibrant hues and creating distinct atmospheres in different areas of the house. The den, which evolved from a playroom to an art room and finally to a library as her daughters grew, became Reider's favorite space. This room is characterized by color-blocked shelves filled with books. In the living room, she opted for saturated blues, her preferred color, to establish a lively gathering area. This space features deep-teal paint on the trim and fireplace surround, complemented by pale-blue silk wallcoverings and a green sofa, creating a luxurious and inviting ambiance. An Ochre pendant, a long-coveted item, hangs overhead, and the walls are adorned with pastels, reflecting Reider's upbringing around art and its influence on her design philosophy. The living and dining rooms were designed to flow harmoniously, situated across a hall from each other. The original rundown wood paneling in the dining room was modernized with a moody, deep greenish-blue shade, deemed appropriate for a dining space. The foyer serves as a neutral transition zone, offering a reprieve from the intense colors of the adjacent rooms, save for a vintage oriental stair runner. The home's architectural integrity, preserved by the previous owner who was an architect and lived there for over 80 years, served as significant inspiration for Reider. A notable feature retained from the previous owner's design was an eat-in table in the kitchen, which Reider favored over a large island to maintain intimacy and functionality for family activities. The kitchen's design includes cozy gray-blue cabinetry and a backsplash made from crackled subway tiles, another design element Reider had long wished to incorporate. Similarly, the primary bedroom showcases deep navy blues and serene purples, accented by an antelope carpet, a cherished swatch she had been eager to use in her own home. These specific elements—the wild carpet, an artful pendant, and the crackled tile—served as foundational inspirations for the home's overall design. The culmination of her professional experience and personal aspirations resulted in a strategically designed yet deeply personal space, integrating items she had admired for years, ensuring enduring satisfaction. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #GeorgianRevival #JewelTones #ColorPalette #DesignerHome #WestRoxbury #RachelReider #HomeStyling

This article details the transformation of a 51 sq m one-bedroom apartment in a Georgian townhouse in Dublin into a luxurious and eclectic city pad. The project was undertaken by interior designer Kris Turnbull for clients with whom he had previously collaborated on their main home in Northern Ireland. The clients desired a compact weekend getaway that would evoke the sophistication of Milan, Paris, or London, while embracing the Georgian heritage of the building. With 4m-high ceilings and large sash windows overlooking Dublin’s Grand Canal, the first-floor property was in a dilapidated state, allowing Turnbull’s team to strip it back and begin with a blank canvas. The design strategy focused on blending period elegance with contemporary bespoke pieces and an international aesthetic. In the living space, wall panelling, ceiling details, and a period fireplace were added to restore a sense of Georgian grandeur. The furniture selection includes an architectural curved sofa upholstered in Pierre Frey fabric with Hermès and Jim Thompson cushions, and a brass, hand-finished coffee table with black smoked glass, all contributing to an eclectic mix of antique pieces and contemporary styling. A notable technological integration is a TV screen concealed within a two-way mirrored glass above the mantelpiece, offering both entertainment and a reflective surface when off. Additional elements comprise an antique chest of drawers, a customized Christopher Guy drinks cabinet, a bespoke cocktail table, contemporary artwork, Kris Turnbull-designed rugs, and a Bella Figura ceiling light crafted from milled Murano glass, demonstrating how numerous items were strategically placed within the compact room. The kitchen was designed to feel welcoming and timeless, resembling a Parisian apartment rather than a sterile modern space. Smoky blue units, inspired by a feature armchair in the lounge, are complemented by antique mirrored glass panelling, Calacatta marble for shelving, backsplashes, and worktops, and dark petrol-blue ceramic tiles. The combination of these materials creates visual interest and an established feel. A round dining table with a burnt smoked oak top and vellum leather base, paired with carvers upholstered in Métaphores fabric, introduces an elegant belle époque style with a sculptural, modern touch. In the bedroom, the design prioritizes modern functionality while maintaining the apartment's grand aesthetic. The window, a focal point, features Rubelli curtain fabric—a deconstructed and expanded traditional damask—along with an upholstered pelmet, braids, and tiebacks. Other pieces include a Christopher Guy chair with a shell back and a rock crystal brass pendant, which serves as a statement piece blending contemporary design with belle époque influences. The bathroom was conceived to have an elegant, international flair that respects the property's age. It features ink-blue cabinetry with gold leaf framework, a period mirror, and antique mirrored glass, creating reflective layers. The shower boasts a reeded glass enclosure and brushed brass fixtures, including exposed pipework. A slab of Calacatta marble was butterflied and cut for the shower, creating a continuous pattern that enhances the luxurious feel. The use of book-matched marble flooring extends from the bathroom into the small entrance hall, where three types of marble form a geometric pattern, alongside a wall of antique mirrored glass with small rosettes and a bespoke console table topped with a Porta Romana lamp. The designer and owners expressed great satisfaction with the finished apartment, particularly how a sense of grandeur was achieved within the small footprint through careful attention to proportions, windows, ceiling heights, and detailed design choices. #InteriorDesign #GeorgianArchitecture #KrisTurnbull #DublinApartment #LuxuryDecor #EclecticStyle #PeriodFeatures #BelleEpoque #CompactLiving

Interior designer Nicole Fisher of BNR Interiors transformed a four-bedroom, builder-grade row house in Hudson, Upstate New York, into a vibrant home with British charm. The initial state of the house, purchased by a developer, lacked character with generic hardware store moldings and fixtures. Fisher's primary goal was to infuse personality and warmth into the space, moving away from the common 'white on white' aesthetic prevalent in the region. The design process began with selecting a cohesive color palette, largely inspired by House of Hackney’s Avalon wallpaper, a striped and floral pattern used in the dining room. This wallpaper dictated the selection of 14 different paint colors applied throughout the house, aiming to create a distinctly British, rather than farmhouse, atmosphere. The homeowners, being British themselves, were receptive to a bold and layered approach to interior design, having previously embraced unconventional choices like a lime green kitchen in their London home. Fisher embraced the British tendency for playful interiors, characterized by multiple patterns and layers, creating spaces that feel timeless rather than confined to a specific era. The philosophy was to choose elements that the homeowners loved, ensuring they would work together harmoniously if executed correctly. A significant feature of the renovation included the incorporation of two hidden doors—one leading to a pantry and another in the TV room. These hidden spaces serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing privacy in a house where the entire length is visible from the front door, and offering practical solutions for entertaining by concealing clutter or creating a 'speakeasy' feel. Attention to detail extends to specific rooms, such as the primary bedroom, where multiple patterns are successfully integrated. The key to this success lies in a common color thread, specifically a cranberry hue, which is consistently pulled through various elements like the bed, wallpaper, and chair tassels. Additionally, Fisher employed variations in scale, combining small and large patterns, such as a chunky floral fabric from Liberty (which held sentimental value for the homeowner as her wedding dress designer) for the headboard. This approach creates a collected, aged feel, reminiscent of a modern grandmother's country house, avoiding a 'too new' or 'too precious' ambiance. The kitchen also showcases unique finds, including a faux marble island sourced from 1stDibs. This island, with its colors complementing the chosen wallpaper, became a central element that set the tone for the rest of the kitchen, contributing to the overall layered and inviting aesthetic Fisher aimed for. Other notable design choices include Sanderson’s Stapleton Park Wallpaper in the dressing room, Farrow & Ball’s Potted Shrimp for the den walls, Phillip Jeffries’s Island Raffia in the living room, Cole & Son’s Frutta e Geometrico in the bar area, Soane’s Scrolling Acanthus in Bloom in the primary bedroom, John Derian wallpaper in another bedroom, and Scalamandre’s Magnus in Indigo Blue in the laundry room. These selections highlight a rich interplay of patterns, textures, and colors, successfully transforming a generic space into a home filled with character and warmth, deeply influenced by British design sensibilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #BritishCharm #PatternMixing #WallpaperDesign #ColorPalette #HiddenDoors #HudsonHome #BNRInteriors

This article details a sophisticated Art Deco-style home in Sydney, designed by Greg Natale, which departs from his signature black-and-white interiors to embrace a softer palette of pink and grey. The design was heavily influenced by the owners' European travels and their desire for a classic yet modern and streamlined home, leading to a strong French Art Deco theme. The primary design cue came from the bleached-oak parquet flooring chosen by the owners, Vince and Melissa Ciolino, setting the tone for the entire house. The palette is described as a 'youthful romance' between pink and grey, a combination that resonated with Natale from his teenage years in the 1980s and inspired his career in interior design. The home's exterior features a curved facade with Juliet balconies and ornate ironwork against a stucco finish, while the interior minimizes right angles, emphasizing curves throughout. The renovation transformed a humble stucco bungalow, retaining only the original front two rooms behind the new curved facade. The expanded home now includes two lounge rooms, four bedrooms, a study, a grand dining room, and a well-appointed kitchen with a butler’s pantry, catering to the owners' love for entertaining. The ground floor layout features an entry that leads past a media room, study, and laundry, opening into an expansive L-shaped formal living, dining, and kitchen area. An informal living addition at the rear of the house encloses the pool. Melissa's request for a light and airy feel, combined with the pale herringbone parquet, led Greg to propose pink walls with white joinery, further solidified by an artwork with blush hues intended for the dining area. This choice created a fresh and uplifting atmosphere. Brass accents are strategically used throughout the kitchen and living room shelving, adding a vibrant 'pop' against the softer tones. The design incorporates luxurious materials such as Carrara marble for the doorstep, fireplace, bathrooms, and benchtops. Terrazzo floors and charcoal furnishings introduce the grey elements that complement the pink, forming the glamorous combination Natale envisioned. The Art Deco influence is evident in every detail, from the sensuously rounded facade to the curved fireplace, the seamless wall-to-ceiling transitions without cornicing, oval bookcases with elongated arches, and a spectacular spiral staircase. Natale further innovated with ceilings, incorporating raked designs and coffered inserts with rounded edges to break up white expanses and enhance the curved motif. The furniture selection deviates from traditional heavy Art Deco pieces, opting instead for modernist furniture, particularly 1950s Italian designs. This choice aims to provide cleaner profiles that beautifully offset the architectural detailing, creating an eclectic and unexpected scheme. Natale notes a growing trend among clients for softer palettes, moving away from monochrome, and expresses his enthusiasm for incorporating more pink into his designs. The project showcases Natale's ability to evolve his aesthetic while delivering a sophisticated and welcoming home that celebrates both classic Art Deco elements and modern, youthful romance. #ArtDecoHome #GregNatale #InteriorDesign #PinkAndGreyPalette #CurvedArchitecture #LuxuryInteriors #SydneyHome #HomeRenovation #ModernistFurniture