This Colorful and Modern Long Island Home Proves Chartreuse Paint Can Look Timeless

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

Brynn Jones, owner of Aralda Vintage, and her husband, Ness Saban, an indie film distributor, transformed their 1963 Robert Lee-designed home in Los Angeles. Jones, who has a lifelong affinity for 1960s and 1970s aesthetics, recognized the potential in the three-bedroom house despite some outdated decor. While Saban initially needed more convincing, Jones envisioned the possibilities, leading them to enlist Frances Merrill of Reath Design to revitalize the property. The home’s original dark wood paneling and brickwork, which date back to 1963, were considered essential elements to retain for their warmth and coziness. However, the kitchen and bathrooms, which had undergone poor remodels in the 1990s, required complete renovation. Jones's design vision was heavily influenced by her love for vintage fashion, drawing inspiration from the homes of style icons like Gloria Vanderbilt, Diana Vreeland, and Diane von Furstenberg, as well as '60s and '70s design magazines. Merrill embraced this approach, encouraging unusual color combinations and bold patterns. The initial phase of the renovation involved a simple yet impactful change: repainting the common areas, original built-ins, and doors from an institutional gray to a rich emerald green. This color choice effectively unified the existing paneling and brickwork. In the kitchen, a glossy chartreuse tiled backsplash was introduced, creating a vibrant contrast that surprisingly complemented the walnut and cream cabinets and dark wood. The primary bathroom became a canvas for more experimental color, featuring a checkerboard pattern of light purple, burgundy, and scarlet tiles, a peachy marble countertop with rose veins, and purple marble lining the shower. Jones acknowledged the intensity of this design, humorously noting a friend's comparison to a Stanley Kubrick film. Beyond color, patterns played a significant role in the home's transformation. The office features a botanical Hermès wallpaper, providing a psychedelic backdrop for a custom desk and wall unit. The main bedroom embraces a moodier ambiance due to a lack of natural light. Jones selected a kaleidoscopic House of Hackney design for the window drapes, bedding, and wallpaper, extending it to the ceiling. Despite the abundance of prints, Jones found the olive green and dark teal color palette to be calming, while Saban humorously described the room as being inside a wrapped, inverted present. The final phase of the renovation focused on the nursery for their son, Odin. Jones aimed to create a stimulating and charming space that avoided a stereotypical kid's room feel. This was achieved with a daybed reupholstered in dinosaur fabric, baby bedding made from mismatched Liberty London textiles, a dusty-blue sky mural by Londubh Studios painted across cabinetry and the ceiling, and a plush custom carpet designed to resemble a coral reef, laid over a purple linoleum floor. The nursery also features a custom clothing and storage nook, a former closet converted into built-in cabinetry, painted in dusty blue and pale lavender to provide a soothing atmosphere. This playful and imaginative design philosophy, first established in the nursery, extends throughout the entire home. #HomeTour #VintageInspired #InteriorDesign #LosAngelesHome #RetroDesign #BoldColors #PatternMixing #RenovationProject #ReathDesign

This article details the transformation of a 1915 San Francisco home by designer Kevin Sawyers, who aimed to imbue it with the vibrant personal style of its owner. Although the house was in good structural condition, it lacked personality and cohesive color. Sawyers addressed this by developing a “lip-smacking and playful, but certainly sophisticated” color palette that directly reflects the homeowner's wardrobe choices. The design strategy involved a tight edit of recurring colors to create cohesion and whimsy. For instance, the deep red from the dining room wallpaper reappears on the kitchen backsplash, family room rug, and as the guest bathroom’s wall paint. Similarly, a peachy orange from the kitchen island is echoed in the primary suite. This intentional repetition of strong colors ensures a unified yet dynamic aesthetic throughout the home. Beyond color, the project emphasized custom woodworking, which serves as a grounding element for the bold palette. Built-in case goods and white oak murals cover many walls, providing functional storage and integrated furniture. These custom pieces also feature unique decorative elements, such as mountain range murals inspired by the family’s vacation to Switzerland, adding a personalized touch. Despite minimal structural changes, primarily limited to the children’s bathroom, the three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home underwent a complete aesthetic overhaul. Virtually every surface was altered, updated, or replaced, making it unrecognizable from its initial state. The extensive design efforts ensured that the house not only became a reflection of its owner but also achieved a joyful, stylish, and clean atmosphere. Key areas of the home showcase this design philosophy. The entryway features a graphic 3D wall mural depicting Swiss mountains and practical storage solutions with circular wall knobs. The living room introduces the home’s ethos with a fireplace framed in Heath Ceramics tile, a nod to the client’s collection, and playful elements like an arch painted on the wall. The family room and playroom embody a flexible, family-friendly style, with wood slats providing subtle separation and a nocturnal Swiss mountain mural in the stairwell. The kitchen features updated cabinetry painted in bold colors like Snowy Shadow and Mysterious Blue, complemented by light fixtures and tiles that match the vibrant hues. A tucked-away pantry adds a playful touch with neon green floating shelves. The breakfast nook, designed for versatility, includes a custom banquette and fluted details that echo design elements found elsewhere in the house. The dining room offers a sleek space for entertaining, with Lee Jofa wallpaper over wainscoting and Benjamin Moore Magenta paint. The primary bedroom provides a tranquil retreat with softer tones like Daytona Peach, while the primary and guest bathrooms incorporate punchy hues, durable materials, and retro-inspired elements like terrazzo-style concrete countertops, maintaining the home's overall vibrant theme. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #CustomWoodwork #SanFranciscoHome #PersonalStyle #ResidentialDesign #VibrantInteriors #HomeRenovation

Interior designer Sara Gilbane's summer retreat in Locust Valley, Long Island, is characterized by a "family party house" atmosphere, reflecting her breezy, classic bohemian aesthetic. The home, located an hour's drive from her Manhattan base, prioritizes relaxation and fun, featuring a large backyard with a homemade slip-and-slide. Gilbane, an alumna of Rhode Island School of Design and protégé of Celerie Kemble, established her own firm in 2008 and launched a line of furniture, fabric, and wallpaper in 2014. The design incorporates family heirlooms and personal touches throughout, such as her grandmother’s china, inherited Turkish and Oriental rugs, and an American flag belonging to her grandfather, which is draped over the stairs. The sunroom serves as a primary lounging area, filled with rattan pieces. In the living room, a white IKEA sofa is made comfortable and family-friendly with custom throw pillows and washable slipcovers, illustrating Gilbane's pragmatic approach to design in a house frequented by children and guests. Playful elements like a large clay leopard add a whimsical touch, preventing the space from feeling overly formal. Gilbane describes her aesthetic as "very high-low," blending vintage furniture with vibrant, modern updates. For instance, a vintage sofa is re-upholstered in a bright floral pattern and layered with cheerful throw pillows. The color scheme, featuring bright pastels and bold primaries, is inspired by the natural surroundings, particularly the stunning sunset views over the Sound. The living room walls are painted a light pink, chosen for its changing appearance from nearly white during the day to brighter at night, reflecting the sunset's hues. Sharing the property is a refurbished squash court, now a cottage owned by Gilbane's best friend, designed to be bright and happy with saturated colors. This cottage features white walls as a backdrop, complemented by tailored furniture in blues, greens, and zebra prints, fostering a fun and inviting atmosphere. The children's rooms also reflect this playful use of color; Gilbane’s son James’s room, for example, heavily features blue—a favorite color for both him and his mother—with red accents to create a lively and "punchy" feel, seen in items like an antique quilt and a bobble bed. Gilbane offers five key ideas for incorporating color into a home's design: drawing inspiration from natural surroundings, using large and abstract art for significant impact, avoiding gender stereotypes with colors like pink, utilizing black as a neutral for elements such as picture frames and furniture bases, and strategically investing in high-quality colored pieces while opting for inexpensive items in white or lighter shades to manage budget. This approach culminates in a home that is both aesthetically rich and functionally resilient for a vibrant family life. #LongIsland #VacationHome #PatternMixing #BohemianStyle #SaraGilbane #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendly #HighLowDesign #ColorPalette

This article highlights a historic 20th-century Jacobethan mock Tudor home in Seattle, designed by Shannon Adamson Interior Design, which effectively blends Art Deco influences with statement 1970s furniture. The design strategy centers on the use of dark paint colors to infuse depth and a luxurious feel, a departure from traditional bright spaces, aiming for a cozier atmosphere. The designer explains that rooms were painted with a consistent wall color from top to bottom, avoiding busy contrasts between walls and trim, thereby allowing the historic interior architecture and moldings to recede into a more textural role. The sitting room, for instance, features Sherwin Williams' Iron Ore, a cool charcoal shade that brings sophistication and highlights the historic crown molding through its satin finish. This choice complements the original quarter-sawn oak flooring. The furniture and fabrics, including cognac leather, sienna velvet, and dark metals, were carefully selected to prevent the dark palette from feeling cold or oppressive. The room's low ceilings were also a factor in choosing dark colors, as they contribute to a cozy feeling, which might not be achievable in spaces with very tall ceilings. The sitting room's design incorporates various textures and shapes, with a carved Italian marble fireplace as its focal point, surrounded by 1950s Italian crystal chandeliers, a custom curved velvet sofa, and 1930s Gilbert Rohde chairs. In the breakfast room, Benjamin Moore's Galapagos Turquoise, a deep teal with both depth and warmth, was used. The designer notes that dark color schemes are particularly effective in areas with gloomy weather, like Seattle, as they beautifully complement filtered natural light. The main bedroom employs Sherwin Williams' Classic French Grey, a warm tone that prevents the room from feeling cold, especially when exposed to south-facing light, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere. Darker colors are deemed suitable for bedrooms, where an enveloping environment is desired. The wet bar area, designed for a sleek and sophisticated look, is painted in Sherwin Williams' Outerspace, a mysterious blue with grey undertones. This space features walnut cabinets, honed Nero Marquina marble countertops, locally-made antiqued mirror panels, an aged brass footrail, and Tom Dixon pendants. Bespoke linear lighting was inlaid into the bookcases, which are lined with textural Arte wallcovering, to showcase the clients' liquor collection, all complemented by the warm acacia wood floor. The article also touches upon the 1970s decorative vibe found in the house, which, while not explicitly intentional, arose from the designer's inspiration from Jean Michel Frank's work, contrasting traditional ornamentation with streamlined furnishings, and incorporating elements like Arteriors wing-back chairs, retro geometric wallpaper, and sculptural lamps, creating a playful reinterpretation of historically accurate home furnishings. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #ModernHome #SeattleHome #LuxuryDecor #HomeRenovation #ColorScheme #HistoricHome #DesignInspiration

Chartreuse, a vibrant color that lies directly between green and yellow, is named after the French herbal liqueur. Historically, The Domestic Monthly (1885) described it as a “delicate, pale green, with a yellow tinge,” rivaling apple green. Over time, its definition has evolved, leading to two recognized versions: traditional chartreuse yellow and the updated chartreuse green. Regardless of these distinctions, chartreuse is recognized as a significant color trend, often associated with high fashion and timeless style due to its acidic hue. Designer Leah Ring emphasizes the color's ability to add an edgy and playful touch to spaces, reflecting a personality that doesn't take itself too seriously, as exemplified by the chartreuse kitchen cabinets in her desert retreat. Various applications of chartreuse in home decor demonstrate its versatility and impact. In Christian Siriano's living room, chartreuse walls function as a neutral backdrop, allowing other patterns and colors to stand out. For kitchen spaces, chartreuse can be used to paint upper cabinets, offering a fresh alternative to more common green kitchens, as seen in a David Netto-designed residence where Benjamin Moore’s Rosemary Green was utilized. Even as a small accessory, like a chartreuse toolbox in Emiliano Salci's Milan apartment, the color can provide a visually striking element. In Leah Ring's desert home, chartreuse lower cabinets contribute to a lively mix of bright colors. The color extends beyond walls and cabinets to other furniture and architectural elements. A chartreuse bed frame can introduce a pop of color into a neutral bedroom, as demonstrated in a Spanish-style Los Angeles home. Eric Allart's Paris apartment features a painted chartreuse floor, creating a perpetually spring-like atmosphere. Upholstery also provides an opportunity for chartreuse, with designer Michael K. Chen using a citrusy shade for a slipper chair in a primary suite, harmonizing with blush tones. Jeanine Lobell and Anthony Edwards incorporated chartreuse built-ins in their colorful breakfast room, complemented by a floral accent wall. Outdoor spaces can also benefit from chartreuse, with lounge chairs on a Brazilian patio designed by Jean de Just maintaining a sunny disposition. Smaller accents, such as a resin accent lamp, can subtly integrate chartreuse into a neutral living room. For dining areas, a coordinated chartreuse palette, as seen in a David Dalton-designed home, can create a decadent ambiance when balanced with white and dark flooring. Outdoor dining chairs in chartreuse, like those in a Long Island home by Joe Nahem, are effectively grounded by a multicolored rug. Jonathan Adler used a geometric chartreuse rug to enliven his space, contrasting it with candy apple green wallpaper. Chartreuse vintage silk wallpaper sets an energized backdrop for a gallery wall in decorator Todd Alexander Romano's kitchen dining nook. In Christina Juarez's New York living room, vintage chartreuse Larsen chairs are paired with a purple velvet sofa, adding to an explosion of color and pattern. Chartreuse can also be used as a vibrant backing for bookcases, as implemented by interior designer Lisa Berman. Sasha Bikoff drew inspiration from Impressionist artwork for an ethereal living room, using chartreuse accent chairs to balance blush tones. A grand dining room in a San Francisco home, designed by Thomas Britt, features custom-made banquettes and chairs in a chartreuse green hue. Liz Caan & Co. used chartreuse chairs against moody blue walls to create a striking contrast, showcasing the power of this color. Lastly, Sophia Amoruso's Los Angeles kitchen challenges the all-white trend with chartreuse green walls, designed to stimulate conversation. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #ChartreuseColor #DesignInspiration #DecoratingIdeas #HomeStyling #VibrantColors

The article discusses the resurgence of chartreuse, a vibrant yellow-green color, in home interior design, particularly highlighting its use in the 2025 Idea House. Chartreuse, which has seen periods of popularity since the Victorian era, including a significant revival in the 1960s and a brief renaissance in the 2000s, is now being embraced again by designers. This trend is attributed to a shift away from minimalist and neutral palettes, such as millennial gray and beige, with people increasingly craving more energetic and bold colors in their homes. Designer Jenna Gross notes that chartreuse offers a fearless alternative to past safe color choices, leading the charge in this new era of vibrant interiors. Russell Goldman, another interior designer, points out that in certain regions, like Palm Beach, Florida, chartreuse has maintained its appeal, suggesting its timeless quality in environments where bold colors are inherently suited to the local light and landscape. The article emphasizes that in such settings, chartreuse is viewed as expressive rather than merely trendy, adding personality to a space without hesitation. For the 2025 Idea House, the specific shade chosen for the living room walls is Chartreuse 0073 by Sherwin-Williams. This particular hue is described as an approachable take on the bold color, favored by Southern designers for its subdued yet distinctive quality. Nina Dekay Grauer and Eleanor Tate Trepte, designers specializing in interiors with pops of color, commend Chartreuse 0073 for its beauty and less overwhelming presence. Another popular Sherwin-Williams chartreuse mentioned by designers Goldman and Gross is Frolic 6703, which is slightly darker and more saturated. The article advises readers to swatch both colors to compare how they appear on a larger scale, as their perceived intensity can vary. For those hesitant to commit to a large-scale application of chartreuse, the article suggests using it as an accent color. Tate Trepte draws a parallel between chartreuse and the 'unexpected red theory,' wherein a small touch of red can elevate a space. Similarly, a vivid chartreuse accent can introduce energy and contrast to an otherwise neutral room, making it appear more refined. Goldman concurs, recommending its use in subtle ways, such as on the back of a bookcase, a lacquered side table, or as an upholstery accent. He highlights that chartreuse doesn't need to dominate a space to make a significant impression. Regarding color pairing, chartreuse is surprisingly versatile due to its combination of cool and warm undertones. A key design tip provided is to pair chartreuse with shades of blue, particularly teal. Gross explains that teal beautifully complements the yellow undertones of chartreuse, enhancing the cooler blue hues. This creates a vibrant, modern, and fresh palette that is impactful without being overwhelming. The overall message is that chartreuse is making a strong comeback, offering homeowners various ways to incorporate this dynamic color into their living spaces, from bold wall applications to subtle accents, thereby moving away from more subdued interior trends. #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Chartreuse #PaintColors #AccentColors #DesignTips #SouthernLiving #IdeaHouse

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

This article details the transformative design of an East Harlem townhouse owned by Gordon Espinet and Jonathan Ledoux, emphasizing the strategic use of color and a collaborative design approach. The project was led by Melissa Miller and Helen Lazic of LAMILL Design, who leveraged their shared professional history with Espinet from the beauty industry, particularly MAC Cosmetics, to establish a foundation of trust and a collective visual understanding. This shared background facilitated an intuitive design process, aligning their aesthetic sensibilities from the outset. The clients' vision for their home was clear: a tranquil yet playful space characterized by simple, clean details, and abundant natural light. They also sought a residence suitable for entertaining, capable of showcasing their art collection and travel-acquired furniture, while maintaining a sense of connectivity and layered design. Gordon Espinet, drawing from his expertise in makeup artistry, played a pivotal role in the thoughtful placement of vibrant color accents, which were carefully balanced against natural wood, neutral finishes, and incoming light. This approach ensured that color, while prominent, integrated harmoniously into the overall scheme. Prior to the renovation, the townhouse was segmented into numerous small, dimly lit rooms. A primary objective of the design team was to open up these spaces, linking them with natural light filtering from both the front and back of the house. This reconfigured layout aimed to create a unified, single-family home ambiance. Given the narrow footprint of the property, structural partitions were minimized. Instead, transitions between rooms were subtly defined through variations in texture, material, and color. Examples include the soft lighting and wood elements in the kitchen, contrasted with high-gloss paint surrounding a sliding door in the dining room. The design strategy extended to the upper levels, where each room was assigned a distinct mood tailored to its function and desired level of privacy. Guest rooms were conceived as more open and expressive, featuring lively tile accents and visual continuity with the hallways. In contrast, the back library and the primary suite were designed as more introspective retreats, characterized by quieter, more focused energy. Lighting received meticulous attention, with the owners expressing specific preferences for its application. The design incorporated a minimal number of recessed lights, prioritizing the strategic placement of decorative pendant fixtures and task lighting. The intention was for the lighting to serve as a complementary backdrop, enhancing the architectural features and finishes rather than dominating them. Additionally, the design team created a series of distinct zones throughout the home, catering to gatherings of various scales. These zones, unified by the natural light from the north and south ends of the property, contribute to a home that is both open and thoughtfully attuned, reflecting its history while being reinterpreted through light and color. #EastHarlem #TownhouseDesign #ColorPalette #CollaborativeDesign #LAMILLDesign #InteriorRenovation #StrategicLighting #ArtIntegration #ModernDesign

The article details the transformation of a traditional Cape Cod-style Manhattan Beach home, originally characterized by corporate-like colors and commercial carpeting, into a vibrant and personalized space for a young family. Homepolish designer Mandy Cheng was tasked with injecting fun, color, and modernity into the abode while ensuring it retained a timeless appeal that the family could grow into. Her design philosophy centered on utilizing bold accent walls, functional furnishings, and a cohesive color palette throughout the home. Cheng addressed the challenge of an open-concept floor plan by establishing visual cohesion between the family room and kitchen. She achieved this by extending the kitchen's color palette, particularly a dark blue used on the island, to the living area's fireplace. Additionally, dusty orange throw pillows in the living room echoed the leather barstools in the kitchen, creating a subtle yet effective link between the spaces. The dining room's design was initiated by a small turquoise print, which inspired a bold application of Benjamin Moore’s Sherwood Forest on the walls, transforming a naturally darker, central room into a striking focal point. Large-scale art and light window treatments were introduced to balance the dark walls. For the boys' bedroom, Cheng introduced accent walls as a test for her clients' willingness to embrace bold design choices. Instead of wallpaper, she used Benjamin Moore’s Blue Macaw and Bluebelle paints, meticulously applying celestial-inspired decals. This approach not only showcased the impact of an accent wall but also resonated with the client’s profession in aeronautics, making space a central theme. The success of this room paved the way for more adventurous choices in other areas. In the nursery, Cheng fully embraced wallpaper, opting for a pink elephant print on two adjacent walls. To manage the budget and create visual contrast, the remaining two walls were painted a soft blue. This strategic application ensured that the most visible walls featured the decorative element, maximizing its impact. The master bedroom was designed as a serene retreat, incorporating a Japanese woven silk wallpaper for the headboard wall, complemented by greenery and sheepskin rugs. Floating shelves were chosen over traditional artwork to allow for easy display and rotation of personal items. Cheng emphasized the natural beauty of mixed wood tones, using brass brackets and wood planks, adhering to the principle that different wood colors can coexist harmoniously if their tones are consistent. An unexpected design challenge arose with the formal living room's vintage spindle back chairs. An order mix-up resulted in chairs with an incorrect stain color and seat cushion. Cheng resolved this by having the chairs bleached by a wood finisher, ultimately achieving the desired aesthetic. The room was further personalized with a six-foot-tall print by photographer Toby Cheng. Finally, in the kids' bathroom, the design prioritized fun and budget-friendliness. A bold floor tile was selected for the small area, complemented by standard wall tiles, demonstrating how a striking design can be achieved without excessive cost, especially in less-frequented areas like children’s bathrooms. #ManhattanBeachHome #InteriorDesign #AccentWalls #ColorPalette #HomeRenovation #FamilyHome #DesignInspiration #MandyCheng #Homepolish

Homepolish designer Mandy Cheng transformed a traditional, corporate-feeling Cape Cod-style house in Manhattan Beach, California, into a vibrant and modern home for a young family with two children. The initial state of the house was characterized by 'office colors' and commercial carpeting, which did not align with the clients' lively personalities. Cheng's design philosophy centered on injecting color, print, and mixed wood finishes to create a timeless yet contemporary aesthetic that the family could evolve with. One of the primary design challenges was achieving cohesion in the open-concept living spaces, particularly between the family room and the kitchen. Cheng addressed this by employing a consistent color palette across both areas. For instance, the dark blue used on the kitchen island was extended to the fireplace in the living room, and dusty orange throw pillows in the living room echoed the leather barstools in the kitchen, effectively tying the spaces together. The dining room provided an opportunity for a bold statement. Inspired by a small turquoise print, Cheng opted to paint the walls in Benjamin Moore’s Sherwood Forest, creating a dramatic and eye-catching effect. This choice aimed to counteract the room's inherently darker orientation within the house and infuse it with a distinct personality. Large-scale artwork and light window treatments were incorporated to balance the bold wall color and introduce a sense of airiness. In the children's bedrooms, Cheng experimented with accent walls as a means of pushing design boundaries with her clients. For the boys' room, instead of immediate wallpaper, she used Benjamin Moore’s Blue Macaw and Bluebelle paints, meticulously applying celestial-inspired decals. This approach served as a temporary solution to demonstrate the potential impact of accent walls, particularly relevant to the wife's profession in aeronautics. The nursery featured a combination of wallpaper and paint to manage the budget and create visual contrast; a pink elephant print wallpaper was used on two visible walls, while the remaining walls were painted in a soft blue. This strategic application maximized visual impact without overspending. The master bedroom was designed as a tranquil retreat. Cheng incorporated Japanese woven silk wallpaper, lush greenery, and sheepskin rugs to foster a serene atmosphere. Floating shelves were chosen over traditional gallery walls, allowing the family to display personal items and easily update family photos. The designer emphasized the use of mixed wood finishes, explaining that varying wood tones, as long as they share a similar base tone, emulate natural environments and add texture to a space. Brass brackets and wood planks on the shelves further enhanced this design element. A particular challenge arose with the vintage spindle-back chairs for the formal living room when an order went wrong, resulting in an incorrect stain color and seat cushion. Cheng resolved this by having a wood finisher bleach the chairs repeatedly until they matched the desired aesthetic, highlighting her adaptability in unforeseen circumstances. The room was completed with a significant print by her brother, photographer Toby Cheng. Finally, for the kids' bathroom, Cheng prioritized a fun yet budget-friendly design. She opted for bold floor tiles in a small area and used standard wall tiles, demonstrating that impactful design can be achieved without excessive spending, especially in less-frequented spaces. The overall project showcases Cheng's ability to transform a dated house into a vibrant, personalized home through thoughtful color coordination, strategic use of accents, and innovative problem-solving. #ManhattanBeachHome #HomePolishDesign #AccentWalls #ColorPalette #OpenConceptLiving #ChildrensRooms #MasterBedroomDesign #MixedWoods #CustomFurniture

A 1970s-style Dallas ranch house underwent a significant transformation, moving away from its original closed-in and sprawling floorplan to embrace an open, light-filled modernist aesthetic with South American influences. The homeowners, with a background in Mexico and Brazil, sought to infuse their new US residence with the warmth and richness reminiscent of their time in South America, creating a vibrant backdrop for their art collection and modernist furniture. Interior designer Joshua Rice led the renovation, focusing on opening up the space, enhancing natural light, and establishing a cohesive flow throughout the home. The original house posed challenges due to its convoluted layout, characterized by a series of disconnected rooms. Joshua Rice addressed this by strategically removing walls, thereby creating a 150-foot visual connection spanning nearly the entire length of the house. This design choice not only improved navigability but also brought a sense of unity to the interior. The entryway now feels spacious and offers a clear view into the kitchen, fostering a connection with other areas of the home. Artworks by Pago Mann and Mr Brainwash, displayed on neutral walls, introduce color and a playful element. One notable design solution involved replacing a hazardous, zig-zagging three-step transition between two living rooms with a simple yet elegant stone half-height wall. This Pietra Grey stone box, with its precise detailing—waterfall edges and articulated reveals—effectively separates the upper and lower levels while maintaining a spatial connection. This intervention significantly improved both the safety and aesthetic appeal of the space, moving beyond the original architectural limitations. The renovation heavily emphasized the use of natural materials and a neutral color palette. In the eat-in kitchen, Faye Toogood's Roly Poly round table and dining chairs introduce a softening element to the otherwise defined lines of the main kitchen. The kitchen itself features cabinetry crafted from teak with bronze accent panels by Forms & Surfaces, paired with concrete engineered quartz countertops by Santamargherita. These elements collectively contribute warmth and a touch of midcentury modern style. White oak flooring extends throughout the main rooms, offering a durable and visually cohesive surface, while a custom vent hood combining teak and blackened steel adds a modernist touch. The living rooms showcase a curated selection of vintage South American midcentury modern pieces. The main living area features iconic Presidential armchairs and a vintage Oushak rug, complemented by a cast bronze table by Jojo Corväiá. The dining room is anchored by a 1959 Guanabara rosewood table by Jorge Zalszupin and illuminated by an RBW Palindrome light, with Fiona Weedon's "Tears and Flowers 1993" oil on canvas adorning Venetian plaster walls. The upper living room, centered around the Pietra grey stone fireplace, includes a Sideways sofa, vintage Alta lounge chair, and two 'Diz' chairs, alongside additional cast bronze and ceramic tables and a rare Brazilian sculpture. The home office incorporates Aim lamps by Flos, vintage swivel and lounge chairs, and a desk from Poltrona Frau, while the main bedroom offers a window alcove with seating and a blackened steel fireplace. The project successfully blends modernist principles with rich, textural materials, creating a luxurious and welcoming environment. The architect, Mark McCollum, noted that despite the original convoluted floorplan, the careful crafting of connections resulted in a grand and gracious home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernistHome #DallasArchitecture #MidCenturyModern #SouthAmericanInfluence #VintageFurniture #OpenConceptLiving #NaturalMaterials

This article explores a Washington, D.C., home designed by Zoe Feldman, which showcases a maximalist yet restrained approach to interior design. The residence, owned by a young, fashion-forward couple with an affinity for British style, particularly House of Hackney, challenges conventional design norms by seamlessly integrating bold patterns, vibrant colors, and diverse textures. Feldman emphasizes that despite the eclectic mix of elements, the home maintains a cohesive and surprisingly neutral feel. The dining room, for instance, features a large, square layout adorned with striped Farrow & Ball wallpaper. This bold pattern, rather than being overwhelming, is described as soothing. The space offers a view into a floral-covered foyer, which in turn leads to a chartreuse-colored living room where various animal prints are harmoniously incorporated. Feldman explains that the striped wallpaper in the dining room naturally complements the William Morris Pimpernel print found in the stairwell, with both areas utilizing tame color palettes that subtly prepare visitors for the vibrant chartreuse living room. A key design philosophy employed by Feldman is balancing quirky and traditional elements, ensuring that "everything can’t be the star." This approach is evident in the inclusion of a vintage landscape tapestry in one corner and a human hand-shaped catchall for keys, a signature touch in Feldman’s projects. She stresses the importance of natural relationships between design elements, rejecting the idea of simply throwing disparate items together. The leopard stair runner is highlighted as an example of a seemingly bold choice that functions as a neutral, according to Feldman, who believes animal prints are inherently neutral and can coexist in nearly any space. The living room further exemplifies this adventurous design, featuring nude sketches by a team designer, antique glass mirror panels, and a 1970s tiger-print daybed. The striking chartreuse walls and window trim, painted in a Benjamin Moore hue matched by Fine Paints of Europe’s Hollandlac finish, create the illusion of lacquer without the associated cost and labor. In contrast to the vibrant communal spaces, the kitchen acts as a palette cleanser with its gradient blue cabinetry. Feldman applied various shades of Farrow & Ball paint—Pale Powder for the walls, Light Blue for medium door fronts, and De Nimes for pantry cupboards—to create a calming, smudged effect. The Donatello marble countertops, integrated sink, and backsplash, with their subtle blue veining, enhance this optical illusion. The adjacent family room, described as the "heartbeat of the house," is designed for both the couple and their young children. A TV is concealed behind bifold cabinet doors, painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stone Blue to match the walls and baseboards, allowing for a versatile space that can be active during the day and serene at night. Feldman’s use of antique brass grilling to disguise lower cabinet panels, a technique often used for radiators and AC returns, adds a functional yet decorative touch. The primary bedroom features an upholstered bed frame that is complemented by speckled Matouk Margot print pillows and duvet, chosen to play up the pattern rather than mute it. Feldman argues that small-scale prints can complement larger ones in ways solids cannot. The children’s bedroom incorporates playful pink dinosaur wallpaper from House of Hackney, with the border painted in an icy blue-green, a tone present in the motif, to ensure a cohesive and impactful design. This careful consideration of trim, doors, and ceiling colors maximizes the effect of the wallpaper, avoiding a stark white that would feel out of place. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #MaximalistDesign #PatternMixing #ColorPalette #ZoeFeldmanDesign #WashingtonDCHome #TextileTrends #EclecticStyle

In Pelham, New York, designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce Design embarked on a project to transform a client's home into a soft-hued, textured environment that harmonized with the stately character of the neighborhood. The client, who had already undertaken significant renovations including updating bathrooms, replacing wood flooring, and upgrading the heating system, doors, and moldings, found the decorating aspect of her home daunting. Her introduction to Enger through a mutual acquaintance led to an immediate connection and the initiation of a comprehensive design overhaul. Enger's approach centered on meticulously furnishing the home with luxurious wallcoverings and a diverse array of chic, personalized pieces tailored to the client's preferences. A significant portion of the furnishings and rugs were custom-designed, allowing for considerable creative freedom in achieving a unique aesthetic. The entryway, for instance, features a striking wallcovering from Alt for Living, providing a vibrant and welcoming first impression for guests. The living room was conceived as a comfortable lounge space, anchored by a custom chaise lounge upholstered in a subtly striped fabric from Rogers & Goffigon, perfect for relaxation and reading, illuminated by a tent lamp from Visual Comfort. In the dining room, a blush-colored wallcovering from Kneedler|Fauchère sets a warm and inviting tone. Custom mirrors introduce geometric elements, complemented by an orb lighting fixture from Bourgeis Boheme, while Rogers & Goffigon fabric elegantly frames the windows. Contrasting elements are strategically employed throughout the home, as seen with sleek, lacquered custom consoles paired with Christen Maxwell stools that introduce a metallic shimmer. The family room is a study in layered textures and soft, warm neutrals, featuring two custom sofas upholstered in Schumacher chenille and custom club chairs in Holly Hunt fabric. A custom bronze and cerused oak cocktail table serves as a central piece, and Jim Thompson Fabrics window shades add a subtle pattern. A raffia console from Made Goods contributes an unexpected texture, and the mantle surround, built-ins, and a wool-and-silk area rug are all custom-designed. Custom millwork is a hallmark of the design, with Enger and her team crafting built-ins throughout the home, including practical solutions in the mudroom. The sunroom is designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and comfortable space. Almost all its furnishings are custom, from the Holly Hunt fabric lounge chair and the wool flat weave area rug to the hexagonal lacquered linen coffee tables. Even the guest bedroom incorporates subtle patterns, with a Cisco Brothers daybed upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric. The master bedroom exudes tranquility with a textured Wolf-Gordon wallcovering. The custom bed is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, and the bedding is from Signoria Firenze. A dark, vintage sunburst mirror above the bed creates a striking contrast against the room's lighter colors, flanked by two Visual Comfort lamps on custom nightstands. A plush lounge chair at the foot of the bed offers additional comfortable seating. The home also includes custom-designed cabinetry by J. Patryce Design for an office nook, showcasing the comprehensive and personalized nature of the project. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurnishings #TexturedInteriors #Wallcoverings #PelhamNewYork #JoanEnger #JPatryceDesign

This article highlights the transformation of a Victorian terrace in south London, where designer Laura Stephens reconfigured its layout to inject light and modern living while preserving its historical character. The project addressed the common dilemma of modernizing classic townhouses by integrating contemporary elements without compromising original features like paneling, plasterwork, and traditional layouts. Instead of extensive structural changes, Stephens focused on a less interventionist approach, retaining the 19th-century architecture and skillfully adapting the floor plan to suit a modern family. Key changes included relocating the sitting room to the back, moving the kitchen to the middle, and positioning the dining room, which also functions as a small home office, at the front of the house. To enhance natural light, a glazed screen was installed between the hallway and dining room, creating an effect similar to an old-fashioned office partition, which significantly brightened the front of the home. The design incorporated fresh colors, and natural textures like jute and seagrass, along with subtle architectural details to create a living space that feels both contemporary and timeless. The kitchen features periwinkle blue cabinetry designed to complement the high ceilings, contrasted with 'utilitarian' white metro tiles and bronze hardware, which adds a touch of aged elegance. In the sitting room, a new fireplace was installed, and half-paneling was introduced to balance the striped wallpaper. The designer also focused on sustainability and cost-effectiveness by recovering existing furniture pieces such as sofas, armchairs, dining chairs, and an ottoman, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and repurposing items. The main bedroom underwent a significant transformation, with previously 'bleak' wardrobes being revitalized by glazed doors lined with gathered fabric. A gauzy pendant light was chosen for its sculptural quality, echoing the textured pink wallcovering that envelops the room. In the top-floor bathroom, an innovative solution was found when a shortage of mustard and white tiles led to the installation of a mirror panel. This not only extended the striped design but also visually expanded the cozy, eaves-tucked space. Laura Stephens also designed unique rugs in collaboration with Bombay Sprout, incorporating motifs based on antique passementerie and natural jute textures, reflecting the blend of past and present in the home's overall design. Laura Stephens shared her style inspiration, citing her satisfaction with the glazed wall, her preference for 'Spruce' by Paint & Paper Library as a go-to color, and drawing inspiration from interior design books, historical and contemporary, as well as her youngest daughter. She expressed admiration for architect Gil Schafer and the Chrysler Building in New York City. The project successfully created a bright, comfortable, and ageless living space that honors its Victorian roots while embracing modern functionality and aesthetics. #LondonTownhouse #VictorianRenovation #InteriorDesign #LauraStephens #HomeRedesign #ColorPalette #TextureMixing #NaturalLight #KitchenDesign #BedroomTransformation

This article details the transformation of a previously bland and dated center hall colonial-style home in NYC into a cozy and stylish family residence, spearheaded by interior designer Tami Wassong. The homeowners sought to retain the home's good structural bones, including tall windows, 10-foot ceilings, and herringbone parquet floors, while desiring a complete aesthetic overhaul that would feel comfortable and layered. Tami Wassong's design philosophy for this project emphasized deep colors, textured wallcoverings, custom millwork, and strategic layouts, all while ensuring no room was off-limits to the children, promoting a non-static living environment. The redesign journey began with the dining room, where a shibori-style Holly Hunt wallpaper was unconventionally applied to the ceiling, creating a distinctive graphic element that complemented the subtle Venetian plaster walls. This space was further enhanced with a Room ceiling light, a custom solid walnut dining table designed by Tami Wassong in collaboration with Withers Studio, and Craft Associates dining chairs. The living room was conceived as a warm and moody retreat, featuring deep olive-toned walls, matching built-ins, and a cohesive ceiling treatment. A custom wool-silk rug, designed in collaboration with Fayette Studio, along with paprika-colored Larchmont lounge chairs (Tami Wassong designs) and muddy grey sofas from Lawson Fenning upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, contributed to the room's inviting ambiance. The space, nicknamed the 'music room,' houses the family's art, music books, records, and turntable, and is illuminated by an Urban Electric ceiling light. For the kitchen, a sustainable approach was adopted, involving the refinishing of existing lower perimeter cabinets and the reconfiguration of a new island and upper cabinets. The addition of new hardware and Arabescato Vagli marble surfaces and backsplash, alongside striking Allied Maker pendant lights and Blueprint wall sconces, modernized the space. A practical eat-in kitchen area, featuring a custom Formica-topped table from Withers Studio and leather-seated oak dining chairs, was designed to maximize an elegant bay window with garden views. The powder room embraced a moody aesthetic with a richly patterned Bleu Cobalt's Athena wallcovering from Black Crow Studios, serving as a foundational color theme for the entire house. Luxurious details included an integrated sink made of Kenya Brown marble, Belgian bluestone herringbone floors, and antique brass fixtures. The entryway, though minimalist with white walls and pale flooring, subtly integrated key colors from the home through playful sconces and ceiling fixtures by Urban Electric, a textural stair runner by Scandécor, and Dora Somosi’s Tondo Art, aiming to create a refreshing and calm welcome. Upstairs, the children's bedrooms also featured distinctive wallcoverings: Zak + Fox’s Ntama paper in deep maroon for one teen, offering a warm yet sophisticated feel, and Aesthetics deep blue textural wallpaper for the other, creating a cozy look. The primary bedroom was designed as a serene sanctuary, employing layered soft whites and greys, Portola Paints limewash walls, and textural window drapes to foster relaxation. The adjoining bathroom maintained this serene mood with Dolomite floors, custom-cut stacked dolomite tiles, an oak vanity, and satin nickel fixtures, blending contemporary design with clean lines. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ColorfulInteriors #TexturedWallcoverings #CustomMillwork #LuxuryDesign #FamilyHome #NYCInteriorDesign #DiningRoomDesign #LivingRoomDecor