This cinematic Italian-style villa in Los Angeles took inspiration from Call Me By Your Name

This article showcases a newly constructed Tuscan-style villa in Valley Village, Los Angeles, designed by Shlomi Sfadia of SLS Properties. Completed in 2024, the five-bedroom home integrates contemporary Italian style with relaxed California living, drawing inspiration from Sfadia's travels in Italy to create a unique blend of rustic, organic, and modern aesthetics. The designer aimed to infuse the brand-new property with character and warmth, transforming it into a space that transports its inhabitants. The design focuses on creating a sense of 'La Dolce Vita' in California. The kitchen, situated at the heart of an open-plan family room, features white oak cabinetry, natural plaster walls, and a large island with a white countertop and built-in stovetop. It also incorporates classic modern farmhouse elements like open shelves with rustic pegs and a farmhouse sink. The living room, adjacent to the kitchen, is defined by a Mediterranean-revival arched fireplace and natural lime plaster walls, which soften the new construction and provide a rustic, organic backdrop. Reclaimed wood alcove shelves add a touch of patina and character. Spaciousness is a key design element, with natural wood flooring and a wall of sliding glass doors in the living area opening to a landscaped backyard. The outdoor space is designed as a continuation of the Tuscan theme, featuring plants commonly found in Italian villas such as olive trees, cypress, rosemary, and lavender, ensuring a cohesive design from inside out. The downstairs area, while open-plan, maintains distinct zones, including a cozy dining alcove with an elegant arched window. A classic Mediterranean-style arch also frames the staircase. One of the home's highlights is the upstairs landing, treated as a room in its own right, complete with a rustic lime plaster fireplace and a built-in bench seat, aligning with current staircase trends. The primary bedroom combines rustic and textural details, featuring a contemporary paneled accent wall that bridges the gap between the lime plaster and modern villa aesthetics. Steel-framed glass doors and a balcony connect the bedroom to the outdoors. The seven bathrooms in the house feature clean, minimal plaster finishes, inspired by historic Moroccan designs, and the primary bathroom strategically positions a freestanding tub to maximize exterior views. The pool house offers a bolder color palette, deviating from the neutral tones of the main house with rich wine-colored lime plaster walls and limestone flagstone flooring from Eco-Outdoor, extending to the patio. Custom white oak cabinets and vaulted ceilings with reclaimed wood beams complete this space, which Sfadia considers his favorite part of the project due to its unique and expressive design. #LosAngelesHome #ItalianStyle #CaliforniaLiving #ModernRustic #TuscanVilla #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalDesign

Los Angeles– and New York–based interior designer and architect Luis Fernandez describes his latest Hollywood Hills project as embodying the phrase “More is more.” This sentiment not only refers to the opulent interior styling but also to the physical expansion of the house, which involved adding a second level. This addition created an elaborate entertaining space, drawing inspiration from the lavish homes of Tinseltown’s Golden Age movie moguls. The initial scope of the project evolved significantly, with Fernandez's involvement tripling as spaces were continuously added and some sections unintentionally demolished and rebuilt during foundational work. The client, a human rights lawyer and aspiring screenwriter, embraced these challenges, allowing the project to expand into a grand vision. The residence, spanning just over 3,000 square feet, features four bedrooms and four full and two half bathrooms. It offers stunning views of the San Fernando Valley and blends Art Deco with Italian Modernism. The design incorporates luxurious materials such as heavily veined marble, rich wood paneling, custom geometric brass stair railings, and vintage lighting, creating a mashup of the two distinct periods. Despite the client's desire for an abundant aesthetic, Fernandez, who identifies as a minimalist, worked to reconcile these elements through a process of collaborative push and pull, aiming for elegance without excess. This exercise in restraint and filtering ensured the “more is more” look remained refined and sophisticated. Evidence of this balanced approach is apparent in the interior styling and the careful juxtaposition of materials and furnishings. The living room, for example, is subtly divided by a curvilinear fireplace adorned with a custom-designed ribbed walnut surround and Azul Imperiale marble. Furnishings in this space include a pair of petrol blue armchairs by Gerrit Rietveld and a vintage armchair by Nello Pini for Noverredo, all arranged around a teal lacquered cocktail table by Charlotte Perriand. An aged brass pendant from Apparatus hangs overhead, complementing a metal-and-walnut media unit designed by Ornare that echoes the fireplace’s design. Fernandez notes that while forms and colors were experimented with in the furniture, they were kept softer to allow the captivating views of the pool deck and valley, visible through the retractable window wall, to remain a focal point. In stark contrast to the living area, the screening room, which the client refers to as the “gem box,” is deliberately designed to be intensely dark and moody. This space features more colorful furnishings chosen to offset the predominantly monochromatic blue-on-blue shell of the room. Wall and ceiling panel inserts in the screening room are covered in Phillip Jeffries’s Savile Suiting Londons Navy wool wallpaper. The cinematic theme is further emphasized by a custom dark red sectional and a 1970s burlwood and smoked-mirror cocktail table by Pierre Cardin, with the entire room immersed in a deep navy blue. Fernandez highlights that vintage pieces, such as the coffee table and a custom L’Atelier Paris bar, contribute warmth and character to this otherwise serious environment. The Hollywood Hills retreat masterfully draws inspiration from two distinct design movements, combining rich materials and luxurious finishes to create a space that evokes the glamour of both silver screen sirens and film noir femme fatales, culminating in a dramatic and epic presentation. #HollywoodHillsHome #LuisFernandezDesign #DecoModernist #LuxuryInteriors #ArtDeco #ItalianModernism #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #HighEndDecor

Dimorestudio, in collaboration with Loro Piana, unveiled an immersive installation titled 'La Prima Notte di Quiete' at Milan Design Week 2025. This unique presentation explores the blurred lines between reality and cinematic fiction, set within the evocative backdrop of an elegant, fictional 1970s villa. The experience was designed to showcase new furniture pieces from Dimoremilano – Dimorestudio's furniture brand – for Loro Piana Interiors, alongside existing studio classics re-imagined with Loro Piana fabrics. The installation, located in the Cortile della Seta courtyard at Loro Piana's headquarters, begins with guests entering a foyer designed to resemble a vintage cinema, complete with red velvet curtains and leopard-print carpet. Visitors are then guided through a series of holding areas before entering a pitch-black space. The core of the experience unfolds as individual rooms of the villa are dramatically illuminated, synchronized with a soundtrack composed by Nicola Guiducci. This multisensory approach creates an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue, leaving attendees to ponder the narrative of the villa's unseen inhabitants. The setting is a stormy night, emphasized by the sounds of thunder and water cascading down glass panels. Intermittent voices add to a sense of commotion, subtly reflected in the disarray of the interior spaces: crumpled bed sheets, scattered grapes, and misplaced throw pillows. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in elements like a half-read book on a sofa and faint suggestions of mold on the ceiling, all contributing to the plausibility of the scene. Dimorestudio emphasizes that this realism is achieved through a balanced curation of diverse objects, mirroring the sophisticated taste one would find in a genuinely lived-in home. Among the featured pieces is the 'Varallo' round bed, characterized by a tubular steel frame integrated with a Mohair velvet-upholstered headboard. The 'Valsesia' oval dining table also incorporates the same tubular steel for its legs, supporting a lacquered wood top with an Altai wool and cashmere fabric center. The installation also includes various other luxuriously crafted items, such as cabinets, seating, lighting, and decorative objects, all seamlessly integrated to appear as if they were collected over time by the villa's residents. Classic Dimoremilano designs like the 'Tavolo 089', 'Dega', 'Sciura', and 'Patty' armchairs are reinterpreted using Loro Piana Interiors fabrics, underscoring a commitment to tactile luxury and harmonious design. A notable debut within the installation is Loro Piana's 'Punti a Maglia' porcelain tableware, handcrafted in Limoges, which is presented dramatically shattered, adding to the installation's narrative of disruption. Antique sculptures and artworks, sourced from various galleries including Tornabuoni Art and Cardi Gallery, are strategically placed throughout the vignettes and in metal and glass vitrines, further enriching the environment. Dimorestudio's reputation for a cinematic design approach is evident, with influences from filmmakers like David Lynch and Federico Fellini. The installation, which intentionally raises more questions than it answers, serves as a masterclass in set design, inviting visitors into a thought-provoking experience that culminates in a golden, engraved key as a parting gift, subtly implicating the visitor in the unfolding mystery. #MilanDesignWeek #Dimorestudio #LoroPiana #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ImmersiveInstallation #CinematicDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ItalianDesign

The article details the renovation of a 775-square-foot Haussmann apartment in the Village d'Auteuil, Paris, undertaken by French designer Francesco Balzano of After Bach Studio. Balzano redesigned the apartment for himself as both a studio and a home, drawing inspiration from a return to nature and the integration of art into a creative life. The design concept revolves around creating a sophisticated Parisian garden, characterized by a soft and precious ambiance, where shades of green and ivory interact with art pieces and custom furniture. The apartment’s layout features a gallery-like entrance, with a living/dining room and a bedroom on the west side, and a private office and kitchen on the east. The wet rooms are conceived as luxurious, precious spaces, echoing the grandeur of Versailles. Balzano's material and color palette subtly references Italian architect Piero Portaluppi, incorporating green fabric, satin ivory, ultra-matte paint, and white and green onyx as recurring motifs. Flooring throughout the apartment includes sisal and abaca carpet, ash parquet, and light green onyx. The entrance is entirely upholstered in cotton satin fabric with silk braids, featuring a unique system of doors concealed behind draperies and pivots adorned with Danish ceramic buttons. The apartment retains its historical character with original plaster cornices. His office, located in the backyard, is a space for creative work, filled with samples, artworks, and furniture. It includes custom-made Murano II furniture from his collection, entirely sheathed in leather. Lighting is provided by lamps from his Luce collection, exclusively represented by Kolkhoze gallery, which illuminate the ceiling of each room. The bathroom is a highlight, entirely clad in pale green onyx, designed for a minimalist yet prestigious feel. It features a washbasin and a large walk-in shower. A significant artistic element in the bathroom is a fresco painted with marble powder by Nicolas Resse, which replicates the painted decorations found on the ceilings of one of the pavilions of the Villa Medici. This artistic collaboration underscores the apartment's overarching theme of integrating art directly into the living space. The entire renovation is presented as an artful living space where photos, sculptures, paintings, and engravings seamlessly interact with the architectural elements to create a unique environment for the owner and his partner. #ParisApartment #HaussmannRenovation #FrancescoBalzano #AfterBachStudio #LuxuryInteriors #ArtIntegration #GreenOnyx #PalatialDesign #InteriorDesign

The Beverly Hills Hotel, celebrated for its recognizable pink exterior and glamorous red-carpet entrance, has consistently maintained its status as a premier destination on Sunset Boulevard. While well-known for its opulent suites, the hotel also features a collection of discrete bungalows spread throughout its expansive property. These private accommodations have served as exclusive retreats for Hollywood luminaries such as Gloria Swanson, Marlene Dietrich, and Howard Hughes since 1915, offering a storied history that guests can now experience. Bungalow 9 is the latest addition to the hotel’s refurbished bungalow offerings, marking the culmination of an extensive restoration project initiated in 2016. This renovation effort revitalized all 21 bungalows, a century after their initial construction. The design of Bungalow 9 specifically honors Charlie Chaplin, the legendary silent-movie star. Champalimaud Design, responsible for the interior aesthetics, has crafted a space that balances luxury with a relaxed atmosphere. The 2,030-square-foot bungalow features a comprehensive layout that includes a spacious living room, a distinct dining area, a master suite, a guest room with its own full bathroom, and a private outdoor terrace. The interior design of Bungalow 9 by Champalimaud Design incorporates a soothing color palette dominated by honey-colored neutrals. These hues are complemented by a selection of rich textures and clean, modern lines, contributing to an overall sense of refined comfort. The architectural and decorative elements within the bungalow are carefully chosen to evoke a residential feel, featuring sleek headboards, French doors draped with curtains, and wall-to-wall carpeting in the bedroom. Beyond these structural components, artistic pieces and subtle design details serve as tributes to Charlie Chaplin’s legacy. Guests are immersed in the Chaplin-inspired theme from the moment they arrive, being greeted with a special chocolate dessert. The bungalow's kitchen is also thoughtfully equipped with a cocktail kit, similarly inspired by Chaplin, providing an ideal setup for entertaining guests on the private terrace. The bungalows, strategically positioned amidst lush palm trees and meticulously maintained box hedges, offer an enhanced sense of space and seclusion. This design caters to guests who desire a more private and expansive environment without compromising on the luxurious and glamorous experience synonymous with the Beverly Hills Hotel. A stay in Bungalow 9, with its direct homage to Charlie Chaplin, is designed to be so captivating that guests will find themselves reluctant to depart. The nightly rates for these exclusive bungalows begin at $7,700, reflecting the unique blend of historical reverence, modern luxury, and unparalleled privacy they offer. #BeverlyHillsHotel #HollywoodGlamour #CharlieChaplin #LuxuryTravel #BungalowDesign #ChampalimaudDesign #HotelRenovation #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaHotels

In the Mar Vista neighborhood of Los Angeles, the architecture firm Hsu McCullough designed a new home, the Moore Residence, for a young family. The project arose after a planned renovation of their existing 1925 home revealed structural issues making a new build more feasible. The new design was carefully crafted to fulfill the family's needs while harmonizing with the surrounding 1920s and 1930s homes characteristic of the neighborhood. The family expressed a desire for a design that incorporated elements of California Mediterranean style, particularly in terms of materials and colors. They also sought numerous gathering spaces, both indoors and outdoors, to accommodate their family of four comfortably. Hsu McCullough responded to these requests by developing a white exterior featuring punched and horizontal windows, complemented by wood siding, wood decking, and black window frames. The chosen material palette is simple yet effective, and the design ensures that natural light floods every room. To create ample shared spaces as requested by the clients, the architects strategically downsized some bedrooms and consolidated closet and bathroom areas. The first floor of the residence is notably open, with the den and music room positioned near the kitchen. The kitchen seamlessly connects to the dining room, which further extends to an exterior dining deck. The dining room, in particular, establishes a strong indoor-outdoor connection through a floor-to-ceiling glass expanse that overlooks a textured concrete driveway. A central staircase, crafted from wood and metal, serves as a unifying element, echoing materials found throughout the home. The white oak of the staircase matches the ground floor's flooring, while its black oxide finish corresponds to the dark bronze of the doors and windows. A custom steel and Douglas fir wood trellis, stained in a custom color, provides sun relief, its light bouncing off the white walls. The second floor houses three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a substantial outdoor deck. This deck is equipped with a movie screen and a fire pit, designed for evening ocean breezes, while also offering privacy and shade. Windows line the common corridors on the second floor, ensuring it is well-lit. One of the children's bedrooms faces the street, benefiting from three arched windows that infuse the interior with light. The bathrooms on this level feature a combination of crisp white tiles and geometric blue patterns on the floors. The kitchen is designed to be light and bright, incorporating multiple windows, a sliding glass door, white countertops, a white tile backsplash, and gray cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore "Kendall Charcoal." The home's exterior is further defined by a modern wooden fence that complements the cedar plank siding on the second floor, enhancing the building's aesthetic day and night. Project details include Hsu McCullough as the architect of record, Gramajo's Custom Homes, Inc. as the contractor, Parker Resnick Structural Engineering for structural design, and Jay Griffith Landscape for landscape design. Appliances were sourced from Fisher & Paykel. #ModernArchitecture #LosAngelesHomes #CaliforniaMediterranean #ArtDecoInfluence #HsuMcCullough #IndoorOutdoorLiving #CustomHomeDesign #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

This article details the seven-year restoration project undertaken by Gustavo Antonioni, a former Hollywood executive, to transform an 18th-century nobleman's villa, Masseria Partemio, in Puglia, Italy, into a stylish and soulful home. Antonioni, a cosmopolitan individual born in Argentina to Italian and Greek parents and raised in Mexico, moved to the U.S. in the early 1980s. After falling in love with Puglia's raw beauty during a visit in 2010, he decided to pursue a career change and search for a property in the region. The villa, located in Latiano, was a derelict masseria (agricultural estate) spanning over 40 acres, which had been vacant for nearly five decades and was inhabited by approximately 200 goats when Antonioni first encountered it. The property lacked basic amenities like electricity, heat, and running water, and its structure was in a state of decay, with no foundation, floor tiles, or windows. Despite its dilapidated condition, Antonioni was captivated by the estate's energy and historical significance, noting its unique blend of Spanish, Greek, and Italian architecture. The property, Parts of the Palladian structure date to 1753, when it was built as a hunting lodge, while sections of it, including a Moorish-style tower, were added in the mid-1800s. It was later owned by Benedictine nuns and then a wealthy family. The acquisition process itself was challenging, as the property was not initially for sale and was entangled in family disputes common to historic properties in Puglia. Antonioni finally closed on the property in June 2017. Antonioni, who holds a degree in architecture from Carnegie Mellon and has experience with renovations in London, Miami, and Los Angeles, was drawn to the historical preservation aspect of the project. He collaborated with local architect Maria Formosi, known for her work on churches in southern Puglia, to navigate the region's strict rules for renovating historic buildings. The restoration aimed to integrate ancient elements with contemporary desires, respecting traditional materials and building techniques. For instance, the distinctive Pompeian-red and ochre-yellow facade colors were recreated using traditional methods, including boiling animal bones and mixing the paste with ferrous oxide. Inside, the renovation revealed striking blue frescoes beneath layers of calcium paint, commonly used as a disinfectant. The 13 vaults of the house, each forming an eight-pointed star, had to be reinforced. Antonioni opted for contemporary flooring, using terrazzo made from marble chips and cement, and traditional cementina tiles in the entry. The decor features a seamless blend of local crafts, linen upholstery, and Antonioni’s personal art collection. Significant structural changes included combining four small rooms into a large living area and converting the eastern stable into suites using recycled materials, and the western stable into a modern kitchen and dining room with stainless-steel counters and custom oak tables. The project, initially estimated to take three years, extended to over seven due to challenges such as conflicts with contractors, pushback from city officials, and the global pandemic. Antonioni temporarily left for two years to work remotely in the Netherlands before returning with a more relaxed approach to complete the renovation. The property now features a unique swimming pool inspired by 1970s Capri, and the Moorish-style tower serves as a social hub for gatherings. Antonioni moved into Masseria Partemio in June 2024 and plans to convert a smaller structure into a guest house and operate the estate as a luxury bed-and-breakfast, embodying the Italian saying, “Slowly, slowly, you will go far.” #Puglia #Italy #HistoricRenovation #VillaRestoration #MasseriaPartemio #HomeDesign #ItalianArchitecture #GustavoAntonioni #LuxuryRealEstate

The article details the renovation of an 1886 villa in Sydney's inner west, which was previously featured in Belle magazine in the early 1990s. The original 1990s renovation, undertaken by design writer Davina Jackson and former NSW government architect Chris Johnson, introduced a Memphis-style aesthetic with vibrant primary colors and sawtooth joinery. This renovation also included a luminous, light-filled pavilion extension at the rear, overlooking a courtyard, and the conversion of the attic into three bedrooms, all while preserving the original villa's cornices, molded ceilings, architraves, and ceiling roses. The structural additions of the previous owners proved timeless, even as their interior aesthetic evolved from Memphis to a more earthy, ethnic style. In 2015, the current owners purchased the home, drawn to its unique character, the indoor-outdoor connection, and some of its charming quirks. While the floor plan and some existing joinery were retained, the interiors required a significant update. The kitchen was dated, and the bathroom featured a large 1980s spa bath. The owners sought to refresh the space without altering its fundamental structure, aiming for more workable space, especially for entertaining. In 2020, interior designers Heath Baldwin and Hayden Bagnall of Baldwin & Bagnall (now Bagnall Design Office) were commissioned for the renovation. Hayden Bagnall, acknowledging the home's design heritage, aimed to create an updated interior that maintained the property's original character and personality, avoiding a sterile or overly polished look. The new design approach is described as "minimally eclectic," offering a more subdued and restful ambiance compared to its colorful 1990s iteration, yet still celebrating color with 21st-century restraint. Structurally, the main layout remained intact. However, the pavilion was gutted, and the laundry was reconfigured to serve as a butler's pantry. A bulky joinery unit in the front lounge, which had been used as an office, was removed. The zigzag edge of the stairs, a remnant of the initial renovation, was replaced with a smoothly flowing balustrade. This curvilinear motif was extended to a new, generous joinery unit in the dining area and the kitchen island. The old mullion timber-framed doors and windows in the pavilion and main bedroom were replaced with aluminium-framed sliding panels, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. A picture window was installed in the kitchen, framing a Corten steel sculpture, and modern amenities like underfloor heating and concealed air-conditioning were added for comfort. The updated interiors feature "simple colors," including a lush green carpet throughout the house, chosen because the original floorboards were not suitable for retention. Other design elements include a mustard sofa in the living room, a diverse art collection providing color accents, and a kitchen adorned with green dolomite, black granite, and medium-toned oak. The designers emphasized a balance of textures, reupholstering existing sofas in linens and incorporating walnut furniture as a nod to the past, alongside new oak joinery. The renovation successfully blends the home's historic charm and its eclectic past with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic, respecting its heritage while making it relevant for modern living. #VillaRenovation #EclecticInteriorDesign #SydneyHomes #BelleMagazine #HistoricHomeUpdate #ModernRenovation #InteriorStyling #DesignHistory

The Gilded Age, spanning the last quarter of the 19th century in the US, was a period marked by significant economic growth, industrial expansion, and a stark increase in wealth inequality. This era saw the rise of incredibly affluent families, often referred to as the top 1% of earners, who amassed vast fortunes from industries such as railroads, shipping, and banking. These newly wealthy elites, exemplified by families like the Vanderbilts, sought to display their prosperity through the construction of extravagant residences and the hosting of elaborate social events. The Vanderbilt family, for instance, owned numerous mansions, including ten (now demolished) on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue and the still-standing Châteauesque-style Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. Gilded Age mansions are architectural embodiments of the era's opulence, often drawing inspiration from, and even surpassing the grandeur of, French chateaux and Italian villas. This article showcases nine such historic homes currently available for purchase across the United States, each offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of 19th-century American society at varying scales. These properties include a Beaux-Arts Manhattan townhouse, built in 1901 by Horgan and Slattery, featuring a Venetian Renaissance-influenced terracotta façade, oak wainscoting, pocket doors, and dramatic windows. Another property is an architect’s Italianate villa in Newport, Rhode Island, designed and built by Samuel Powel in the 1850s, which boasts a colonnaded veranda, lunettes above windows, and parkland grounds. Also highlighted is Emily Thorn Vanderbilt’s former summer residence in Massachusetts, an 1886 red-roofed, shingle-style country estate set on 89 acres in the Berkshires. This expansive property, known as renovated Elm Court, features over 65 rooms, including a stately ballroom, and grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. A Park Avenue duplex in Manhattan, built by Beaux-Arts architect Stanford White, is presented with its grand salon, diamond-patterned oak-beamed ceiling, and a wooden staircase leading to a library mezzanine. A clapboard Italianate house in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill Historic District, dating back to the 1860s, is noted for its grand portico, sunlit parlor, restored mouldings, and a ‘secret garden’. Further examples include an 1885 Kansas red brick home with a deep veranda, tall windows, and a decadent wood-lined interior featuring a grand staircase and coffered ceiling. A white stucco Denver mansion, designed by Fisher & Fisher in 1904, showcases wrought-iron gates, crafted woodwork, and modern amenities like a retrofitted elevator, chef’s kitchen, and home cinema. A colourful, wood-lined mansion in Saint Paul, Minnesota, built in 1886, is distinguished by its vibrant green and orange exterior, natural and varnished woodwork, and a working pipe organ. Finally, a Detroit apartment located in the converted 1882 Frederick Butler House, drawing on French Renaissance Second Empire style, offers a gut-renovated condo that maintains its historic ambience with arched double doors, tall windows, and a marble and iron fireplace. #GildedAge #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalStyles #BeauxArts #ItalianateVilla #Mansion #PropertyForSale #USArchitecture

Zendaya, who rose to fame on the Disney Channel and achieved significant success in Hollywood, including an Emmy for her role in "Euphoria," has invested her earnings in real estate. In 2016, she purchased her first home, a 4,155 square-foot mansion in Northridge, for $1.4 million. This Mediterranean-style property, featuring an ornate grand staircase, was well-documented on her Instagram and even showcased in Vogue India. Four years later, in 2020, Zendaya upgraded to a $4 million ranch-style home in Encino, Los Angeles, a highly sought-after area for celebrities seeking privacy and value. Her new Encino estate spans over 5,000 square feet and includes six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a separate two-bedroom guest house. Originally built in 1939, the home has undergone several renovations, preserving its vintage charm while offering modern amenities. Unlike her previous Mediterranean-style home, this property embraces the casual elegance of a ranch house, a style that originated in Southern California in the 1930s and is characterized by low-pitched roofs, backyard patios, and U-shaped layouts. The choice of a ranch home offers Zendaya endless possibilities for personalization, a common appeal for celebrities like Kirsten Dunst who also own such properties. Encino, located in the San Fernando Valley, provides a secluded oasis just outside the bustling city of Los Angeles. This area offers larger land parcels, more space, and greater privacy compared to more expensive neighborhoods like Beverly Hills. While Encino homes are not inexpensive, with an average price of $1.4 million, they offer a lower price per square foot ($712) compared to Beverly Hills ($1,000+). Zendaya's property, situated on four acres, is secured behind gates at the end of a long, tree-lined driveway, ensuring the privacy and security she and her partner, Tom Holland, value. Upon entering Zendaya's home, visitors are greeted by a bright and welcoming entryway featuring vintage-inspired doors, a pitched ceiling, hardwood floors, and a large fireplace. The gourmet kitchen boasts light cabinets, granite countertops, updated appliances, and large windows overlooking the backyard. Despite its current simple aesthetic, the spacious kitchen provides ample room for potential renovations to align with current trends, such as bold backsplashes and marble countertops. The home's six bedrooms, complemented by a detached two-bedroom guest house, offer generous space for Zendaya's large family, who frequently visit. Multiple fireplaces throughout the house, including in the main living room, dining room, and basement, add a cozy ambiance. The primary bedroom features wood floors, white walls, large windows, and a private balcony leading to an all-white marble bathroom with a soaking tub and walk-in shower. The classic and timeless design of the bathroom provides an excellent foundation for personalization. The backyard is an outdoor oasis with a vast lawn, large trees, a stunning garden, and a newly built pool with a hot tub, designed to evoke a resort-like feel. As a recognized style icon, Zendaya's interior design is expected to reflect her immaculate personal style, characterized by rich shades, custom furniture, and space for her art collection. Her neighbors in Encino include other A-listers such as Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson, Channing Tatum, and fellow Disney alum Selena Gomez, who also purchased a substantial estate in the area in 2020. Although Zendaya acquired the home in 2020, it remains uncertain whether she has fully moved in, with speculation suggesting she might be undergoing renovations before a grand reveal. #CelebrityHomes #Zendaya #LosAngelesRealEstate #RanchStyleHome #LuxuryLiving #HomeDesignTrends #Encino #InteriorDesign #RealEstateInvestment

Nestled in Indian Hill, an Italian-inspired mansion offers a secluded and luxurious retreat, characterized by a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from typical Midwestern homes. The property is accessed through gated entrances, featuring a driveway crafted from imported pebbles and a central fountain. The stucco-constructed residence showcases an impressive Italian design, with a symmetrical front facade that includes a six-car garage with heated floors and ample ceiling height for a basketball court. The entrance is reminiscent of the movie home from _The Holiday_, featuring black-pane windows contrasting with light stucco, a dark front door, and a copper-tile roof. Inside, the mansion offers six bedrooms, each with an en suite bathroom and laundry facilities, complemented by eight full bathrooms and three half baths, all boasting distinct styles. The entrance hall itself is a grand affair, paved with heated Italian stone and accented by a chestnut wood-panel wall that conceals a doorway to the main living area. This stylish living space is distinguished by pearl subway tile, built-in open shelving, high ceilings, and a wall of windows that provide views of the exterior. Adjacent to the living room, the open-plan dining room and kitchen integrate similar design elements. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate the entire area, with the kitchen serving as a focal point. It features a La Cornue stove acting as an island, equipped with eight burners, three ovens, and a steamer, all surmounted by a substantial stainless steel hood. Additional high-end stainless appliances, such as a Subzero freezer, are also present. The kitchen's design includes subway tile on the walls and ceiling, a fireplace, and an unconventional addition: a swing. A large pantry provides ample storage, complete with its own refrigerator, sink, and glass cabinets for elegant dish display. The mansion further boasts a conservatory, which evokes Italian influences with multicolored tiles, built-in seating, and a central fountain, creating a luminous environment ideal for houseplants. A sunroom, featuring coffered ceilings and skylights, offers a versatile space for year-round entertaining with a walkout. A library provides a quiet retreat with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. For additional entertainment, a chic theater is available, complete with wood beams, tiered seating, and wood plank floors. The second floor houses all six bedrooms, including the master suite. The master bedroom features wood-paneled walls, motorized shades, two walk-in closets, and a dedicated laundry room. The master bathroom is particularly lavish, equipped with a bronze soaking tub, limestone flooring, a spacious shower with three showerheads, and a fireplace. The remaining bedrooms are individually designed, incorporating elements such as hand-painted tiles, beamed ceilings, and stone brick walls. The lower level extends the living space, featuring intricate details and direct access to the outdoor pool area. This exterior space includes a fire pit with seating, a pizza oven, a kitchenette, a pergola trellis, and a covered patio, providing comprehensive amenities for an all-season residence. #IndianHill #LuxuryHome #Mansion #ItalianDesign #HomeArchitecture #CincinnatiRealEstate #CustomHome #HighEndAppliances #IndoorOutdoorLiving

The article chronicles the journey of interior designer Mike Moser and architect Tyler Thomas as they transform a 1925 Spanish Colonial Revival bungalow in Hollywood Heights into a personalized sanctuary. Their relationship, which began with professional admiration on Instagram, evolved into romance and then engagement. This personal connection naturally extended to their shared creative venture: redesigning their home. The couple approached the renovation of the two-bedroom bungalow with a "clean slate and a lot of intention," converting it from Moser's bachelor pad into a tranquil retreat that merges their distinct design philosophies. Moser's spontaneous, experimental approach combined with Thomas's architectural emphasis on purpose, cleanliness, and conciseness. This resulted in an eclectic blend of contemporary and vintage elements throughout the home. A key aspect of the transformation involved reconfiguring the interior layout to foster an open floor plan conducive to entertaining. Moser's former bedroom was repurposed into an office, while his living room became the primary bedroom. This new primary bedroom features double doors that can remain open, integrating it as an extension of the living space. A custom raw-silk-curtained canopy bed, designed by Thomas during a trip to Paris, serves as the focal point of the bedroom, described by Moser as a space that draws people in and brings him immense joy. The formal living room showcases their blended aesthetic with a mix of iconic vintage pieces, including a 1930s aluminum-framed Warren McArthur sofa, a Jacques Adnet cocktail table, an Otto Schulz ottoman, and midcentury brown mohair chairs. Adjacent to the dining room, a more casual conversation area features a dusty blue Ligne Roset sofa, a Jean-Michel Frank–style parchment cocktail table, and a 1970s Tim Orr ceramic floor lamp, highlighting their preference for unique and artful pieces. Beyond furniture, the couple developed a shared passion for collecting decorative sterling tchotchkes, which are neatly displayed in a wall-mounted oxblood-red lacquered finishing cabinet behind the bed. Another shared interest is monogramming, with their initials "TT" or "MM" appearing on various items throughout the home. This shared design sensibility ultimately led them to launch TTMM, their joint design venture. Through TTMM, they plan to offer furniture, lighting, and objects that reflect their signature style, such as a cushioned stainless steel daybed designed for a nook in their bedroom. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #HollywoodHeights #SpanishColonialRevival #EclecticDecor #VintageFurniture #DesignCouple #OpenConcept #CustomFurniture

This article showcases six distinctive homes across the United States, each featuring significant Italian architectural and design influences. The properties range from historic estates to modern villas, demonstrating how Italian aesthetics, from grand Renaissance styles to rustic Tuscan elements, have been integrated into American residences. These homes highlight various Italian-inspired features, including Palladian windows, arched doorways, intricate stenciled beams, marble accents, and specific room designs like wine cellars and Italian farm-style kitchens. The first featured home, Villa Amore in San Antonio, Texas, was built in 1922 and commissioned for an Italian wife, reflecting classic Italian design with its arched doorways, Palladian windows, and a 1,000-bottle wine room. Its exterior boasts an imported marble fountain, a pool, and an al fresco fireplace, accompanied by a carriage house. Next is a Tuscan-style four-bedroom home on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, constructed in 2004. This property incorporates reclaimed beams, Italian stone, heart-of-pine floors, a 1,000-bottle wine room, and an Italian farm-style kitchen. Its waterfront location offers panoramic views, a pool, a private beach, and direct access to the Intercoastal Waterway. In Nyack, New York, Palazzo Mare stands as a 15th-century-style Venetian villa built in 2001 on the Hudson River. Characterized by its ornate front door, a grand staircase, 27-foot ceilings, and Corinthian columns, the villa also includes a master suite with a green marble bathroom and a spa tub. The property extends to a sandy beach, a pier, and a pool with a spa. The Rialto House in Venice, California, built in 1905, was part of Abbot Kinney's vision for "Venice of America." This four-bedroom home features hardwood floors, Islamo-Byzantine stained-glass windows, a marble-floored sunroom, and an Italian-tile bathroom. A notable addition is an 840-square-foot guesthouse situated above the garage. Casa del Sole in Newport, Rhode Island, is an early 20th-century Palladian mansion extensively renovated in 2017. Owned by former Olympic figure skater Michelle Kwan, the four-bedroom home showcases marble floors, a chef's kitchen, two fireplaces, and formal living and dining rooms that open to a loggia. The two-acre landscaped property includes a fire pit and various seating areas. Finally, the Rohlfing House in Attica, Indiana, an Italianate brick home built in 1887 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underwent a three-year renovation completed in 2010. This renovation preserved historical elements such as period fixtures, original woodwork, oil-on-canvas wall coverings, a stained-glass window, and the kitchen’s original sink and prep room. These properties collectively illustrate the enduring appeal and versatile application of Italian design principles in diverse American settings. #ItalianArchitecture #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #RealEstate #ArchitecturalStyles #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #TuscanStyle #VenetianVilla

This article showcases a Los Angeles home meticulously designed by Betsy Burnham, where Moroccan motifs are ingeniously integrated to bring vibrancy to a predominantly neutral black and white palette. The design strategy emphasizes defining details and a careful selection of materials and furnishings to create a unique and sophisticated interior. The tour begins in the entryway, where a vintage mirror is strategically placed above a custom console, immediately setting a tone of elegant eclecticism. Instead of conventional runners, Burnham chose to "carpet" the entry with inlaid mosaic stones from Country Floors, demonstrating a creative approach to flooring that adds a distinctive Moroccan touch from the outset. The living room exemplifies the designer's philosophy of "defining details." Here, the plaster-relief ceiling has been hand-painted, adding an intricate layer of artistry to the space. Custom furniture pieces, including a sofa covered in Holly Hunt leather with Pindler fabric cushions and an ottoman in Clarence House's Bukhara Crewel, are thoughtfully combined with swivel chairs in Rose Tarlow Melrose House's Canvas Cloth and armchairs in Rogers & Goffigon's Bechamel. Fritz side tables by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams complete the sophisticated arrangement. In the dining room, Burnham expertly balances white floors and black accents with feminine elements. Key pieces include a Montalvo chandelier by Dennis & Leen, Windsor Smith's Scalloped Antique mirror, and chairs upholstered in Le Gracieux's Kirachi linen. Vintage Baguès sconces further embellish the space, adding a touch of whimsy and historical charm. The powder room showcases Ann Sacks's Maghreb 4 tiles on the walls, creating a striking Moroccan-inspired backdrop. Arturo sconces by Paul Ferrante, a Forbidden City mirror by Bunny Williams Home, and a Mehraab sink by Viya for Stephanie Odegard with THG's Versailles fittings contribute to a luxurious and exotic atmosphere. The master bedroom's design is inspired by a 19th-century Indian rug from Rugs & Art, which dictated a soft, serene color scheme. The room features a bed by Posse Furniture, sheets by Deborah Sharpe Linens, a throw from Jayson Home, and a vintage lamp from Downtown. Curtains in S. Harris's Tibet silk with Lee Jofa's Vintage Link trim add texture and elegance. Throughout the house, walls are painted in Benjamin Moore's White Dove, providing a consistent, clean canvas. The guest bedroom is designed to "pop" with color and pattern, incorporating a vintage suzani headboard and Moroccan rugs to create a vibrant and inviting space. The staircase is transformed into a graphic installation with patterned tiles by Country Floors, including a Moorish mosaic, Country Floors' Nabeul Noir, mixed with diagonal striped flooring, making a strong visual statement. Outside, the patio is outfitted with Kingsley-Bate's Southampton seating and cushions in a Perennials fabric. An Indonesian daybed is enlivened with vintage textiles and a seat cushion in Great Outdoors' Fresh Canvas. An etched-brass tray table adds historical depth to the outdoor seating area. The infinity-edge pool, flanked by urns transformed into fountains, offers a breathtaking view that, according to Burnham, blurs the lines of geographical location until the Los Angeles skyline is visible. Southampton woven-wicker chaise longues by Kingsley-Bate complete the outdoor retreat. #MoroccanDesign #InteriorDesign #NeutralPalette #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #CustomFurniture #TileWork #OutdoorLiving #BetsyBurnham

Limewash, a centuries-old paint trend, offers a versatile, environmentally-friendly, and charming wall finish that evokes the aesthetic of Italian villas and French country cottages. While traditionally seen on Greek island homes or modern city lofts, limewashing has recently gained mainstream popularity, with more companies offering a variety of colored options. It provides an "old-style plaster look" at a more budget-friendly price point than actual plaster. Limewash is made from crushed limestone mixed with water, resulting in a thin, milky consistency. Unlike conventional paints, which often contain plastics, biocides, and formaldehyde, limewash, as explained by Bronwyn Riedel of Bauwerk Paints, is VOC-free, making it a more eco-conscious choice. Although most commonly found in neutral tones, pigmented versions are available. Lisa Rickert, CEO of Jolie Paint, suggests using a translucent wash over regular paint for an existing wall, emphasizing that limewash is applied with a brush to create texture and reflect light differently than rolled paint. She cautions against using paint with a sheen, as limewash produces a matte finish. Limewash is adaptable for both exterior and interior walls, though surface material is a crucial consideration. Jamie Davis, cofounder of Portola Paints, notes that traditional lime paints are best suited for raw masonry surfaces like plaster, cement, stucco, and brick. For non-porous interior surfaces, a primer is necessary, and Portola offers a specific primer for this purpose. The article provides examples of limewash applications in various rooms. In a bedroom, a designer used sandy beige limewash to create a tropical, vacation-like atmosphere after a canceled trip. A garage in Joshua Tree was transformed into a guest suite featuring saturated limewash tones in the sleeping nook and broad brushstrokes in the living area. In an industrial Los Angeles loft, white limewash was applied to offset exposed pipes and beams, achieving an airy, ethereal ambiance desired by the homeowner. The application process for limewash involves thin layers to prevent a powdery appearance. Riedel recommends applying each coat in one continuous session, suggesting it can be a communal and enjoyable activity. Davis advises testing the color and pattern on a smaller surface before full commitment. For porous surfaces like brick, one coat may suffice. For interior walls, the process involves first applying a primer coat with a regular paint roller. Subsequently, a 5-inch box brush is used to apply the limewash in a crisscross 'X' pattern, working from the top corner down, without overworking the same spot. It's important to allow the first coat to dry completely, as limewash appears darker when wet. A second coat is then applied using the same 'X' pattern. The article concludes by showcasing various limewash color options from brands like Portola Paint, Kalklitir Paints, and Bauwerk Color, including shades such as El Coyoté, Aqua, Amethyst, Petrolio, Merida, and Squid Ink, encouraging readers to explore the range of available hues for their home design projects. #LimewashPaint #TuscanVillaStyle #EcoFriendlyPaint #InteriorDesign #WallFinishes #HomeRenovation #DIYHomeDecor #PaintTrends #TexturedWalls