How Two Rhode Island Artists Made a Home in This 19th Century Voting Hall

The Mary Heaton Vorse house in Provincetown, a historic home purchased by interior designer Ken Fulk, serves as a unique exhibition space for the Provincetown Arts Society. Rather than a conventional white-box gallery, the house, with its meticulously renovated yet historically preserved interiors, provides a domestic setting for showcasing art. Gene Tartaglia, director of the Provincetown Arts Society, highlights the distinctiveness of exhibiting art within this context, noting that the art “resonates in a way it doesn’t in a gallery.” This approach creates a more intimate and personal connection between the artwork and the viewer, contrasting sharply with the often sterile environment of traditional galleries. The current exhibition, “A Community Affair: PAGA at the Mary Heaton Vorse House,” is the largest to date, featuring 140 works by 40 artists from 14 galleries, all members of the Provincetown Art Gallery Association. This marks the second group show for PAGA at the Vorse house. The interior design, overseen by Fulk, intentionally retains elements of the house's history, such as peeling paint, exposed laths, and worn treads, which are complemented by eclectic furnishings. These historical traces provide a rich backdrop against which contemporary and traditional artworks are displayed, creating a dialogue between the past and present. Tartaglia emphasizes the curatorial process, which involves considering how each artwork interacts with the house's interior. For example, Joel Janowitz’s watercolors of dune pathways are strategically placed next to a window, giving the impression that the pathway leads outside. Rob DuToit’s painting, "The Raft," with its cool tones, harmonizes with the patina of the wall behind it. Joshua Meyer’s "Polyphony," a portrait painted with a palette knife, finds a textural kinship with the exposed wood where it hangs. These thoughtful placements create “vignettes” throughout the house, encouraging close looking and discovery in various nooks and hidden corners. Notable pieces in the exhibition include Jane Paradise’s photograph of a dune shack, displayed in a small bathroom, offering a unique self-reflection moment for the viewer. "Mary’s Room," formerly Vorse’s bedroom, hosts a range of historical and contemporary paintings, including Charles Hawthorne’s full-length female nude, whose demure pose and placement reflect the sensibilities of its era. Another bedroom features Mike Carroll’s abstract painting, "Pareidolia," whose horizontal width corresponds to the bed next to it, inviting contemplation on its title's meaning. Downstairs, Bailey Bob Bailey’s "GLOW" at the east entrance complements and contrasts with the surrounding bookshelves, showcasing its compositional symmetry and stacked forms. The Provincetown Arts Society, under Tartaglia's direction, aims to be a “conduit and collaborator” for existing arts organizations in Provincetown. Beyond exhibitions, it hosts artist residencies, fundraising events, film screenings, dinners, and lectures. Tartaglia curates based on his instinct and personal preferences, believing that if he loves a piece, others might too, leading to sales that support the artists. The unique atmosphere of intimacy and informality at the Vorse house fosters a personal connection between art, artists, and the community, embodying the quirky spirit of Provincetown. The exhibition is open on Fridays from 5-7 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. through May 18, and admission is free. #ProvincetownArtsSociety #MaryHeatonVorseHouse #ArtExhibition #KenFulkDesign #ProvincetownArtGalleryAssociation #CuratorialPractices #LocalArtists #HistoricHome #CommunityArts

Contemporary interior design is witnessing a profound transformation, moving beyond mere aesthetics to create deeply personal, experiential, and expressive living spaces. This shift is marked by a resurgence of sculptures as primary design elements, transcending their traditional roles in museums and gardens to become integral components of architectural design within homes. Sculptures are now seen as instrumental in shaping the atmosphere and guiding movement within a residence, reflecting a growing appreciation for contemplative beauty in everyday life. Internationally recognized Indian sculptor Murtikar Naresh Kumar Kumawat, renowned for his Samudra Manthan mural in the new Parliament, emphasizes that sculptures are establishing themselves as a permanent fixture in interior design. Historically, Indian sculptures primarily depicted divine figures, animals, and intricate stone carvings. While these traditional forms continue to inspire contemporary aesthetics, modern Indian artists are broadening the scope to include abstract and kinetic art, utilizing diverse materials such as industrial steel, polished resin, and ceramic alloys. This evolution encourages residents and designers to approach the entire space as a canvas, where a singular, impactful sculpture can redefine the room's character. For instance, a large, abstract metal sculpture placed in a minimalist foyer can become a dynamic focal point, its raw energy invigorating an otherwise quiet space and complementing the overall architectural design. Sculptures possess a unique ability to engage viewers and redefine three-dimensional space in ways that two-dimensional paintings cannot. They invite interaction from multiple perspectives, influencing the flow and perception of a room. Designers are leveraging this characteristic, using sculptures to subtly direct movement and attention. A series of wall-mounted pieces, a rhythmically arranged collection, or a delicately suspended installation can guide the eye through a space. Furthermore, a strategically positioned large vertical sculpture in an open-plan living area can function as an elegant, non-physical divider, separating conversational zones from dining areas without the need for solid walls. This architectural utility is highly valued by individuals seeking distinctive living environments. There is a discernible trend among homeowners to view their residences as extensions of their identity, artistic preferences, and personal philosophies. This perspective has led to an increased demand for sculptures that function as small-scale architectural installations, indicative of a sophisticated artistic sensibility. In modern design, the selection of a sculpture often precedes furniture choices, with the artwork dictating the room's color palette, material textures, and lighting scheme. Subsequent furnishings are then carefully chosen to complement and support the sculpture, ensuring it remains the artistic nucleus of the space. In contemporary homes, sculptures are often placed to foster a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments. A robust stone or bronze figure, for example, can effectively anchor an interior, bridging the gap between sleek modern designs and the dynamic elements of a garden, thereby imparting a sense of timelessness and intentional connection with nature. Kumawat notes that this burgeoning artistic trend has significantly benefited the Indian contemporary art market. Homeowners are actively commissioning both emerging and established Indian sculptors for site-specific works, thereby fostering a stable and robust ecosystem for creative talent. This practice not only ensures an aesthetic fit tailored to individual homes but also cultivates a deep personal connection to local craftsmanship and artistic vision. The use of innovative and unconventional materials further enriches this trend. Sculptures crafted from reclaimed wood, repurposed textiles, or recycled industrial waste not only offer visual interest but also reflect a growing environmental consciousness and a commitment to responsible consumption among Indian consumers. Therefore, sculptures are no longer mere accents but central characters that structure and elevate modern Indian homes, transforming ordinary living areas into sophisticated, complex, and highly personalized works of art that capture a cultural moment characterized by optimism and discerning taste. #SculptureDesignTrend #HomeInteriors #ArchitecturalSculpture #IndianArt #MurtikarNareshKumarKumawat #ContemporaryArtMarket #SustainableArt #PersonalizedHomeDecor #ExperientialDesign

Art history frequently features paintings of home interiors, offering valuable insights into artists' lives and working environments. For example, Henri Matisse's 1911 painting, *Red Studio*, not only showcases his identifiable artworks and objects but also reveals the arrangement of his studio, functioning as a historical record of his artistic space. Recognizing the historical and personal significance embedded within these interior paintings, the creative agency NeoMam, in collaboration with the home-improvement service HomeAdvisor, embarked on a project to re-imagine six such historically significant rooms. They transformed these famous art-historical interiors into realistic computer-generated (CG) renderings, presenting a modern interpretation of how these spaces might appear today. One of the re-imagined rooms is Vincent van Gogh's *The Bedroom* (1888), which provides an intimate glimpse into his personal life in Arles, France. Van Gogh intended the painting to evoke peace and relaxation. Historical analysis by the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam indicates that the vibrant, strongly contrasting colors seen today are partly due to years of discoloration; the walls and doors were originally purple, not the blue that is now prominent. Another featured interior is from Grant Wood's 1928 painting *The Sun Shine on the Corner*. Wood, a Midwestern realist painter renowned for his rural American depictions, including *American Gothic* (1930), presents a charming and inviting nook in this work. The painting's muted, earthy color palette contributes to its welcoming atmosphere. Wassily Kandinsky's 1909 painting *Interior (My Dining Room)* is also among the chosen works. Kandinsky, a pioneer of abstraction, used this painting not only to explore color and texture but also to depict his home. The eclectic palette employed in the artwork imbues the space with a distinct personality, reflecting his artistic approach even in a domestic setting. Konstantin Korovin's 1913 painting *Interior* portrays a Russian Impressionist setting. Korovin, known for his landscapes, portraits, and still lifes, used rose and beige hues, complemented by the view of winter snow outside the window, to create a quiet and comforting environment in this work, emphasizing warmth and tranquility through its depiction of bare wood. Finally, the project includes Roy Lichtenstein’s 1991 work, *Interior With Restful Paintings*. This piece, representative of Lichtenstein’s mature Pop Art style, is part of his “Interiors” series. In this series, he depicted domestic environments, often drawing inspiration from furniture advertisements. A recurring element in these works is an artwork placed within the artwork itself, here positioned above a couch. The CG rendering of this interior provides a contemporary view of Lichtenstein's distinct flat pop imagery in a three-dimensional context. The collection also highlights Eduard Petrovich Hau’s 1835 watercolor of *Empress Alexandra Feodorovna’s Sitting Room*, detailing the opulent interior of Russia's last empress's living space with rich ornamentation. #ArtHistory #InteriorDesign #FamousPaintings #DigitalArt #CGIRenderings #HomeDecor #ArtInterpretation #VisualCulture

The article details the formation of Pellegrino’s Art and Design Co., a collaboration between longtime friends and artists Teresa Pellegrino and Jesse Stone. Both artists previously worked at Pellegrino’s School of Music and Art in Springfield, where Stone had been an art instructor for nine years. The idea for their partnership arose when Pellegrino sought an artist to collaborate on a wooden floor mosaic. This project marked Pellegrino's second time working on a floor mural in the home of Dr. Shachar and Debbie Tauber. The initial mural had to be removed after an incorrect sealer application, prompting the Taubers to commission a recreation. Pellegrino seized this opportunity to involve Stone, who she admired as an artist. The two collaborated on a new design, aiming to create a piece superior to the original. The mural, described as a large medallion resembling inlaid wood, spans approximately 5.5 feet across. It was meticulously hand-drawn before any work began on the floor. Precision was crucial, requiring accurate measurements and detailed artistic planning to execute the intricate design. The project was completed over five days, and the Taubers expressed even greater satisfaction with the new mural than the first. Pellegrino and Stone are experienced artists, each having completed numerous professional murals independently over the years. Stone refers to their individual styles as 'old-school' artistry. The success of this initial joint venture led to the formal establishment of Pellegrino’s Art and Design Co. With new projects already in the pipeline and both artists possessing established client bases—in addition to the regular flow of students and parents from the art school—they anticipate a promising future for their collaboration. They envision a balanced approach, continuing to teach classes while also taking on various art projects as opportunities arise. The artists express a desire for their company to expand, viewing this merger of artistic minds as a natural progression in their lives. They can be commissioned for custom projects through Pellegrino’s School of Music and Art. #WoodenFloorMural #LocalArtists #ArtCollaboration #HomeDecor #PellegrinosArtAndDesign #InteriorDesign #CustomArt #SpringfieldArtists #MuralArt

The article delves into the intricate world of Creole interiors as depicted in the paintings of Andrew LaMar Hopkins. Hopkins, who developed an early fascination with architecture, interiors, and fashion, began painting interiors at the age of ten. His exhibition, “Créolité,” at the Venus Over Manhattan gallery, showcases over 15 acrylic paintings that serve as odes to Creole interiors of the 18th and 19th centuries. Organized by Alison Gingeras, these vibrant and detailed artworks reflect Hopkins's deep knowledge of the era's design and art traditions, with each object and character revealing broader historical connections between Europe, the Gulf Coast, and the Caribbean. Hopkins, despite living in Savannah, continues to observe Creole architectural elements, such as French doors, balconies, and shutters, across the region. Hopkins's personal life, including his experience performing in drag, is as colorful as his art. His alter ego, Désirée Joséphine Duplantier, is featured in a solo portrait within the exhibition, and each painting subtly incorporates his vast understanding of interior design history as it relates to Creole culture. The artworks are rich with stories of people and built environments influenced by class, intellect, and aesthetics. The article highlights ten specific paintings, with Hopkins providing insights into their architectural, design, and historical symbolism. One featured painting, “Creole Jubilee,” illustrates the eclectic nature of early 19th-century Creole interiors in Louisiana. It depicts an arrangement of European and North American furniture, including French doors, a French porcelain vase, and a Philadelphian wooden chest, reflecting a period when furniture making was still nascent in the South. Another work, “Creole Tête-à-tête,” captures an 1830s New Orleans afternoon scene in the French Quarter, revealing construction traditions like the use of imported stone for cooling. “Alix de Morainville in the Louisiana Wilderness” tells the dramatic story of a French aristocrat who migrated to Louisiana, her European past symbolized by a harp in a typical Louisiana farmhouse, alongside local craft. The painting highlights design traditions like curved table legs, popular in France and later among Creoles, and a basket woven in local tradition, honoring the plantation workers who assisted de Morainville. “The Tomb of America’s First Architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe in Creole New Orleans” pays homage to Benjamin Henry Latrobe, one of America's first formally trained architects. It depicts a shrine to Latrobe in a 19th-century cemetery, emphasizing the lack of formal architectural education in early America and the presence of gentleman architects. “Anglo Saxon Family Living in Creole New Orleans” illustrates the cultural melting pot of New Orleans after various shifts in colonial rule, showcasing a blend of French and American furniture and design elements, like Louis Philippe-era French seating and a New York marble and wooden table. This painting underscores the coexistence of diverse cultures and social observations from the era. “Neptune’s Bathroom” is described as a “tasteful nude” painting, inspired by an Instagram image of Christian Dior’s bathroom and an antique shop find. It connects late 18th-century fashion rejuvenation with interior design. “The Baroness Micaela Almonester de Pontalba in the Hôtel de Pontalba” recounts the story of Micaela Almonester de Pontalba, one of Louisiana’s wealthiest women. The painting features a Japanese lacquered room in her Parisian mansion, reflecting the era's fascination with Chinoiserie style. “Tea Time in Creole New Orleans” portrays 1840s domestic architecture and racial dynamics, with a servant bringing tea to a white woman. This painting includes cherished heirlooms, a French clock, a painting by Jacques Aman, and a flamingo watercolor by John James Audubon, providing insights into social hierarchies and artistic practices of the time. “Marie Laveau in her Saint Ann St Creole Cottage” contrasts with the opulent interiors by depicting a humble Creole cottage, emphasizing that Creole identity was often expressed through interiors rather than facades. It showcases the home of New Orleans’s Voodoo queen, Marie Laveau, highlighting the blend of Catholicism and Voodoo and social customs such as interracial cohabitation. Finally, “Gabriel Aime at Le Petit Versailles” illustrates the luxurious plantation life in Louisiana, featuring the owner's son with European art and decorative objects, including a porcelain bust and a replica of a Leonardo da Vinci painting, symbolizing the wealth and cultural exchange of the period. These paintings collectively offer a rich tapestry of Creole history, culture, and design, filtered through Hopkins’ unique artistic lens and meticulous research. #CreoleInteriors #AndrewLaMarHopkins #ArtExhibition #NewOrleansHistory #19thCenturyDesign #LouisianaCulture #InteriorDesignHistory #VenusOverManhattan #ArchitecturalTraditions

This article explores a historic 1920s double-wide townhouse on the Upper East Side of New York City, which served as the 47th Annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House. The clients purchased the entire building after attending the show house, initiating a gut renovation led by Francis Nicdao, principal designer and chief creative officer of Pembrooke & Ives, and Stephanie Sarkies-Schabot, the firm's managing director of decorating. The renovation, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to create a family home capable of displaying a vast, museum-quality art and antique collection without feeling overly formal. The design achieved a balance between contemporary cleanliness and traditional detailing, respecting the building's historical character. The entryway features checkerboard marble flooring and a spectacular spiral staircase connecting five of the six levels, designed to facilitate a smooth transition to vertical living. The living room, expansive due to the home's double-wide layout, is furnished with collectible design pieces and art, creating a grand and impactful atmosphere. Gold accents add a glamorous edge to a soft color palette. The combined breakfast and family room functions as the home's hub, with a custom back-to-back sofa dividing dining and lounge areas. This space, which opens into the kitchen, incorporates rich textures and blue hues, overlooked by Ralph Goings's artwork, _Tom’s Diner_. The kitchen, located on the entry floor, was designed for high functionality and ease of maintenance, with easily cleanable surfaces and ample counter space. Its blue island and barstools create a cohesive connection with the adjacent breakfast room. The wine cellar and wet bar, located in the basement and dining room respectively, demonstrate that even lower-level spaces can be glamorous, featuring specialty lighting for the wine display and a high-gloss blue paint with a mirrored backsplash in the wet bar. The primary suite, one of seven bedrooms, offers a dreamy ambiance with pink details and natural light enhancing its glow. The unique layout connects the bedroom to a walk-in closet and bathroom through a windowed corridor along the back facade. A guest bedroom provides a relaxing retreat with a neutral color palette, plush carpeting, embroidered drapery, a custom upholstered headboard, and a high-gloss wall finish. The primary bathroom integrates decorative lighting as a focal point, with a stunning chandelier and sconces, alongside symmetrical design and stone detailing for a luxurious and modern feel. Finally, the backyard patio, designed by landscape architect Luciano Guibbilei, serves as a “zen-like enclave” in the city, covering approximately 1,500 square feet and featuring a mural by artist Annie Morris, providing a serene outdoor escape. #NewYorkCity #TownhouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #HistoricPreservation #ArtCollection #PembrookeAndIves #KipsBayShowHouse #HomeDecor

Displaying art in a home, whether it's a house or a condo, is an artistic endeavor that requires careful consideration of various factors to create impact and harmony within the space. While there are no strict rules in design, according to Ben Leavitt of PlaidFox Studio, there are optimal approaches to showcasing artwork. The size of the living space significantly influences art placement, with larger homes offering more opportunities than smaller condos. Despite size constraints, art is considered essential for bringing life to any space. Happy Home Design, for example, specializes in optimizing art display in small spaces like modern condos, which often have abundant windows, limiting wall space. In such environments, art pieces become more impactful as they face less competition from other artworks. The density of windows in new condo builds necessitates a strategic approach to identifying feature walls and determining appropriate artwork sizes. Artwork chosen for display should allow for "breathing room," meaning individual pieces should have enough surrounding space to be appreciated. For collectors with numerous pieces, the challenge lies in curating these items to provide each piece with adequate space and to thoughtfully juxtapose them to foster a dialogue between artworks. When assisting clients in selecting art, designers consider the homeowners' interests, desired mood for the room, and color schemes. The physical dimensions and scale of the artwork must be proportionate to the furniture and the overall balance of the room. Creating visually engaging vignettes as one moves through a space is also important; blank walls that disrupt the room's balance are opportunities for artwork. In prominent areas like a foyer, a larger artwork can create a significant visual impact compared to a smaller piece on a grand wall. Different rooms call for different artistic considerations. Leavitt suggests that the choice of art for a bedroom versus a living room depends on the desired atmosphere. Calming artwork would suit a serene room, for instance. Practical aspects, such as reflections, are also important; rooms with ample natural light may benefit from art without glass or with non-glare, matte-finish glass to prevent distracting reflections. Family artwork is often preferred in more personal areas, such as bedrooms or hallways leading to private spaces, rather than in public living rooms. Thematic art, like a beach scene, might be appropriate for a bathroom, especially if it relates to family photos or interests. Another approach to displaying art is creating a gallery wall, space permitting. For those who haven't accumulated art over a long period, the goal is to create a curated look that suggests a long-standing collection. This involves selecting diverse pieces that represent stylistic contrasts, ranging from minimalist to vibrant and colorful. A well-designed gallery wall incorporates a variety of frames, including wood, gilded, vintage, and contemporary, as well as pictures on stretched canvas. The inclusion of three-dimensional pieces, such as artifacts from travels, is also recommended to add depth and interest. A common strategy is to start with a primary piece in the center and expand outwards, leaving small sections to be filled with personal items. This method allows for the collection to evolve and grow with the homeowner over time. #HomeArt #InteriorDesign #ArtCuration #GalleryWall #HomeDecorating #SmallSpaceDesign #ArtworkPlacement

Hyphen House, a historic Hudson Valley farmhouse dating back to the 1700s, has undergone a significant transformation from a flower farm into a live-work artist's retreat. Originally built for the Dutch Van Messler family, the property once functioned as three separate apartments, now reconfigured into a single, cohesive residence. The name "Hyphen House" signifies this reunification of fragmented spaces, emphasizing the delicate balance required to merge its historical integrity with modern functionality. The renovation was spearheaded by artist Michele Lobo, the owner of Hyphen House, who commissioned her daughter’s design practice, NoNo Studio, co-founded by Susannah Stopford and Alejandra Murillo. The core challenge for NoNo Studio was to modernize the centuries-old structure without sacrificing its inherent historical soul. The designers described the process as a "high-stakes game of chess," navigating thick stone walls and inherent structural quirks to create a flowing layout while preserving the imprint of its past. Upon Lobo's initial acquisition, the house was a 'time capsule' filled with floral motifs, from wallpaper to light switches and lampshades, a legacy of its flower farm origins. While some original elements, such as specific wallpaper in the southern living room and powder room, were retained, others were reimagined. Notably, a quirky wax melter for candle making, hidden behind a fireplace, was preserved, as was the original wood of a mantle stripped back after extensive paint removal. Other enduring features include silk-screen wallpaper, a stone wall in the kitchen, a powder room under the stairs, and a built-in bookcase filled with art books. The aesthetic choices, including color palettes and material selections, were heavily influenced by the home's history and Lobo's extensive collection of art and objects. The designers aimed to create a dialogue between heritage and contemporary freshness, integrating 18th-century antiques with Lobo's globally sourced pieces. The guiding principle was to identify and amplify the distinctive character of the house. A primary goal of the renovation was to establish a home that could support Lobo’s artistic endeavors. After decades abroad, she sought a space near family that could accommodate her work across various mediums and scales. The property now thrives as a creative compound, featuring a sculpture studio in the former flower shop and a barn converted into an art gallery and entertaining area. NoNo Studio embraced the building's peculiarities, such as parallel staircases and duplicate living areas, transforming them into unique design opportunities. The project stands as a testament to the idea that preserving the spirit of an old building is as valuable as constructing something new, resulting in a warm, 'unbuttoned,' and inspiring "incubator of creativity." #HistoricRenovation #ArtistRetreat #HudsonValleyHome #NoNoStudio #InteriorDesign #AdaptiveReuse #ArchitecturalPreservation #LiveWorkSpace #FarmhouseRenovation

This article details the transformation of two historic Dumbo paint factories, an 1891 Brick and Timber building and a 1921 Daylight Factory, into modern residential lofts. The project, a collaboration between Alloy's architecture team and Rebecca Robertson of RR Interior, aimed to preserve the original façades and textures of the centuries-old buildings while updating their functionality to meet contemporary housing needs. The resulting apartments feature unique open floor plans, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, designed to enhance the living experience in the Brooklyn borough. Rebecca Robertson, drawing from her own experience living in a historic New York City loft, spearheaded the interior design. Her approach focused on creating distinct living areas within the expansive open spaces through strategic furniture groupings and rugs. A unified color palette, featuring warm tones accented with hints of black, was chosen to complement the strong architectural elements, particularly the windows. Robertson emphasized layering soft, organic textures, furnishings, décor, and accessories to cultivate a harmonious and lived-in atmosphere. A significant aspect of her design philosophy involved sourcing items from small vendors and artisans, resulting in individualized artwork and fixtures that give each piece a sense of discovered uniqueness. The design process also addressed the evolving role of the home, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need for multi-functional spaces. Robertson's floor plans incorporate separate corners for working, studying, and socializing. A notable innovation is a flexible worktable, developed in collaboration with Braga Woodworks, which can be reconfigured into two individual desks, catering to the growing need for adaptable home office solutions. Further design highlights in the model apartment include custom stools by Skagerak in the entryway and Thonet dining chairs accompanying a table crafted by Braga Woodworks. The space is elegantly illuminated by an Artemide chandelier, a design by Neri and Hu. Additional thoughtful touches include an Ethnicraft credenza and a plush Côte à Coast rug in the entryway, complemented by a Norm Architects oval mirror. The second bedroom features cube shelves, offering customizable storage solutions. The master bedroom showcases a tambour wood wall and an extended headboard that ingeniously conceals an Avera custom closet designed by The Container Store. The master bathroom is designed to evoke a spa-like ambiance, adding to the luxurious feel of the lofts. The exterior of 168 Plymouth, one of the transformed buildings, is also presented, along with a rendering of a future penthouse suite, demonstrating the project's comprehensive approach to modernizing historical architecture. #ResidentialLofts #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #DumboBrooklyn #AdaptiveReuse #RebeccaRobertsonInteriors #AlloyDevelopment #UrbanRenovation #FlexibleLiving

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

Rachel Schlather, the blogger behind CLEfashionista, transformed her new Strongsville home with a Cleveland-themed gallery wall, making it a central decorating priority upon moving in last year. Her approach involved a curated collection of prints, posters, and art sourced from local shops, reflecting a style she describes as “midcentury modern with a touch of Cleveland.” Schlather aimed for a cool, un-kitschy vibe by taking her time with the selection process, acquiring pieces over several months. This allowed for a blend of budget-friendly items and more expensive art, ensuring a balanced aesthetic. Color coordination was a significant factor, leading her to even paint some frames to perfectly match the overall scheme. The meticulous planning involved laying out the gallery wall on the floor numerous times before finalizing its arrangement. The gallery wall is prominently displayed in the joint dining and living room of her 1960s ranch-style home, creating an immediate and lasting impression on visitors and serving as a conversation starter. One of Schlather's most cherished pieces is a print of the Leonard Schlather Brewing Co. This find holds personal significance as her husband is a distant relative to one of the brewery’s namesakes. Operating from 1857 to 1902, the company's storage facilities were historically located in the building that now houses the Great Lakes Brewing Co., a detail often mentioned during brewery tours. Further enhancing the local theme are two framed maps from Lakewood’s Cuyahoga Collective, positioned above the dining table. These maps feature Strongsville, her current hometown, and Marblehead, the location of her family’s lake house, a frequent summer retreat. These pieces serve as year-round reminders of cherished family memories and important geographical connections. A framed copy of The Plain Dealer front page commemorating the 2016 NBA Championship is another key element, included at her husband's insistence. This newspaper article celebrates a significant moment in Cleveland sports history, adding a dynamic and commemorative aspect to the collection. Beneath the gallery wall, a cozy sitting area is bathed in natural light. This space features midcentury-style chairs in a warm hue paired with a gray couch, designed for both admiring the art and relaxation. Schlather emphasizes the functional and inviting nature of this area, noting that the furniture and decor are not overly formal, making it practical for a household with two children. This sitting area is regularly used for enjoying coffee or working, underscoring the blend of aesthetics and utility in her home's design. #ClevelandThemedDecor #GalleryWall #HomeStyle #MidcenturyModern #LocalArt #StrongsvilleHome #HomeDecor #CLEfashionista

Art serves as a transformative element in home décor, offering a means to refresh living spaces and reflect personal tastes without extensive redecoration, particularly beneficial for renters. Experts suggest that a strategic selection and display of artworks can revitalize a home's ambiance, evoking emotions or establishing specific moods. For instance, abstract art with loose, expressionistic marks can create a romantic atmosphere, while a more graphic style can impart a modern, urban feel. The flexibility of art allows for periodic reconfigurations, mirroring how public galleries re-hang their collections, providing a renewed perspective within a home. Practical considerations for hanging art include using small nails for easy patching in rental properties or opting for leaning art against ledges, book stacks, mantelpieces, or consoles for a casual display. When integrating new art, it should complement existing furniture and homeware rather than compete with them. This can be achieved by placing art alongside items with similar aesthetic qualities, such as echoing patterns in a rug or the curves of ceramics, or by creating juxtapositions with personal ephemera like postcards or family photos. Wall-hung art can also provide a visual counterpoint to bulky furniture, acting as a focal point that balances the weight of larger pieces like sofas. Furthermore, carefully chosen art can unify a room by linking disparate design elements, such as contrasting materials or colors, ensuring a cohesive look. Artworks can reflect or complement tones present in fabrics or wood, thereby integrating the room's overall design. Beyond traditional wall art, incorporating usable art, such as art-themed coasters and placemats, can make art acquisition and display more approachable and enjoyable. Artists like Selina Snow demonstrate how personal art collections, including works by family members, travel souvenirs, and her own creations, can be curated against a neutral backdrop to create a unique and personal environment. Snow emphasizes the importance of linking colors and motifs in a way that enhances individual pieces without causing them to blend indistinguishably. She advocates for professional framing for original artworks to ensure their preservation and suggests installing UV protective window film in bright areas. Sculpture also has a place in home interiors, extending beyond gallery settings. Instead of relying solely on tables or plinths, sculptures can be displayed on affordable free-floating shelves at varying heights to create engaging domestic arrangements. For those looking to start an art collection, visiting art exhibitions, auctions, and open-studio events is recommended to discover art that resonates personally. Many galleries offer a 'try before you buy' service, allowing potential buyers to see how art integrates into their home environment at different times of day and in various locations. Before making permanent hanging decisions, it is advisable to experiment with configurations by laying pieces out on the floor. Ultimately, the selection of art should be deeply personal, reflecting what truly speaks to the individual, whether adhering to a specific theme or simply choosing pieces based on intuition, as there is no right or wrong approach to art selection. #HomeDecor #ArtDisplay #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #LivingSpace #HomeStyling #ArtConsultancy #RoomTransformation #PersonalExpression

This article offers a virtual tour of 14 spectacular homes belonging to renowned artists and architects around the world. These residences, usually open to the public but now virtually accessible, provide a glimpse into the personal spaces and creative environments that shaped these influential figures. The article highlights unique architectural styles, interior designs, and personal touches that reflect each artist's personality and work. The tour begins with Frederic Church's Olana in New York's Hudson Valley, a 19th-century landscape painter's home that blends Victorian and Middle Eastern motifs. Oscar Niemeyer's Casas das Canoas in Rio de Janeiro showcases his signature curves and reinforced concrete, with organically positioned boulders integrated into the design. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin in rural Wisconsin is described as his architectural autobiography, an 800-acre estate that is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Philip Johnson’s Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut, features wraparound windows designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape, a meticulously sculpted environment inspired by a 17th-century painting. Duncan Grant and Vanessa Bell’s Charleston House in Sussex, United Kingdom, embodies bohemian charm with hand-painted cupboard doors, patchwork chintz curtains, and stenciled paisley walls, complemented by a vibrant garden. Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul in Mexico City, the site of her birth, death, and many years of her life, is a cobalt-washed residence with chartreuse floors and bright white walls, showcasing local folk art, handmade ceramics, and pre-Columbian sculptures. Auguste Rodin’s La Villa des Brillants in Meudon, France, served as his workshop, business place, and home, filled with dazzling white sculptures. Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner’s East Hampton home has remained untouched since Krasner’s death, featuring paint-splashed floors in the studio and an eclectic interior with a broken anchor and Krasner’s seashell collection. Georgia O’Keeffe’s home and studio in Abiquiu, New Mexico, radiates natural light and includes surprises like a rattlesnake skeleton, along with an extensive potager garden. Clementine Hunter’s modest cabin at Melrose Plantation in Louisiana showcases her prolific artistry, with thousands of paintings depicting daily life. Frederic Church's Olana, a Persian-inspired fortress, is rich with hues of mustard, cherry, and clay, lavishly draped in Turkish rugs and ornate frames. Jim Thompson’s teak Thai-style home in Bangkok, though not an artist's own work, houses an extraordinary collection of traditional Thai art. Sam Maloof’s 1952 California ranch-style home, relocated to Pomona, features treehouse vibes with redwood walls, a hand-carved spiral staircase, and whimsical stained-glass windows. Irma Stern’s The Firs in Cape Town, South Africa, is a colorful collage of portraits and tribal artifacts, painted in mint green, sunny yellow, and and vivid corals. Finally, Claude Monet’s home in Giverny, France, is famous for its poetic interior with a stream of copper pots in the kitchen and lemony yellow dining room, alongside his collection of Japanese art. #ArtistHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #CulturalTourism #VirtualTours #ArtHistory #HistoricHomes #TravelInspiration #GlobalArt