natural finishes pair with clean modern lines at amalia savu's house in romania

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of Los Angeles-based designer Sarah Solis in transforming a Hancock Park home into a Mediterranean villa. The clients, a young artistic family in the entertainment industry, sought a home that would foster creativity and evoke a European vacation feel. Solis focused on restoring and enhancing the home's original Spanish architecture, which included features like exposed beams and arches that had been previously concealed. She also added more arches to maintain architectural integrity, particularly at the entrance and between rooms, aligning with the 1920s Spanish and Mediterranean home styles. A central aspect of Solis's design approach is storytelling, employing an intuitive method to styling. She created a cohesive yet vibrant home by blending rich colors, various woods, velvets, metal, and tiles, aiming for both comfort and elegance. Solis emphasizes the significant role of texture in shaping a home's experience, illustrating this with the use of velvet red sofas for luxury and leather chairs for a formal touch in the dining area. The kitchen achieves casual elegance through a wood and metal combination, while the bedroom offers an ethereal feel with soft linens and subtle patterns. This combination of diverse materials allows the space to be suitable for both entertaining and relaxation. The designer notes that the strategic use of materials helps soften strong colors, as seen with the bright red velvet sofa in the living room, which makes it more luxurious and inviting. Artwork was another crucial element, selected to be visionary and reflective of the clients' artistic backgrounds. Solis sourced unique, original pieces for nearly every room, ensuring they harmonized with the existing color palettes and added depth. The goal was to create an inspiring yet livable space, avoiding a 'too precious' feel and promoting a sense of relaxation throughout. Given the home's California location, indoor-outdoor living was a priority. Solis capitalized on the abundant natural light by installing layered window treatments—woven shades topped with fabric—to control light levels while adding an organic touch. The master bathroom features a massive copper tub positioned to face the sunlight, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The patio area mirrors the interior's aesthetic, incorporating similar textures and tiles for the fountain and built-in bench, which was updated with Moroccan zellige, thus creating a serene and cohesive outdoor environment. Solis concludes that these small, thoughtful details are instrumental in elevating and enlivening the entire space. #MediterraneanDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SarahSolis #LuxuryLiving #TexturalDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArtisticHome

Designers Dominique Brammah and Shannon Shlom of Duet interior studio transformed a 1930s Spanish-style home in Avalon, Sydney, into a warm, European-inspired retreat. The property, initially featuring existing Sydney red gums, tree ferns, and cabbage tree palms, was enhanced by landscape architects Spirit Level and stone masons Farley Roberts, who integrated native plantings and a network of sandstone flagging, stepping-stone paths, and boulders. This extensive landscaping connects the home with its Australian surroundings while maintaining a European feel. The 1930s structure, although humble, had robust timber windows and masonry walls that were retained. The redesign focused on reshaping the interior spaces and expanding the footprint. A nursery and a 'wet block' containing the main ensuite, powder room, and laundry were added to the rear. An old lean-to was removed to create a north-facing loggia, which now houses an open-plan kitchen, dining area, and breakfast banquette that seamlessly connects to an alfresco terrace. New French doors and casement windows were installed to improve airflow and integrate the indoors with the outdoors. The external laundry was repurposed into a multi-functional butler’s pantry, and bespoke tumbled mosaic floor tiles were designed by Duet. The internal layout of the home is arranged around a central sandstone fireplace, optimizing space and eliminating unnecessary hallways. Upstairs, the study was updated with sisal carpet and a caramel sofa, and a new bathroom was added for the guest room. The primary bedroom was expanded to include an ensuite and a generous balcony offering garden views and a distant water vista. The designers employed a courageous and cohesive color palette, drawing inspiration from the natural environment and the client's preference for feminine softness. Common areas, initially white, were given a buttery gloss finish, using Dulux Rice Crop on walls and high-gloss Bread Crumb on ceilings to enhance natural light. Private spaces, such as bathrooms, were adorned with rose pink and cloudy blue, while the nursery and a downstairs bedroom featured midnight and Dulux Blue Balm, respectively. Tadelakt plaster was used to create textured surfaces, contributing to the home's distinctive character. The furniture and lighting selections involved a mix of cleverly sourced vintage pieces and custom-designed items, including warm upholstery and textile panels in cabinetry, and fabric-covered joinery doors. These elements, combined with dramatic drapes, add a layer of romanticism and quiet luxury, reflecting both the home's architecture and the client's spirit. The overall design successfully blends the romance of the past with contemporary functionality, creating a unique and inviting living space. #SpanishStyleHome #AvalonRenovation #InteriorDesign #DuetStudio #LandscapeArchitecture #HomeRemodel #ColorPalette #VintageFurniture #EuropeanInfluence

Interior designer Amber Lewis transformed a bland, all-gray home into a warm and inviting rustic retreat. Known for her modern rustic style, Lewis, founder of Shoppe Amber Interiors and a successful design studio, demonstrated her ability to infuse character and warmth into previously uninspiring spaces. The renovation focused on creating a luxurious yet livable environment, emphasizing natural materials and a subtle, layered color palette. The dining room, initially lacking character, was revitalized with a chic lime wash on the walls and the addition of exposed wooden beams, introducing depth and a rustic feel. Antique-style wood furniture was incorporated to lend a sense of grandeur and tradition. A serene forest landscape wall mural served as a focal point, breaking up the brown tones and connecting the earthy and rustic elements of the room. Accessories like a rustic gold candelabra, a vintage-inspired wall mural, and a burl wood console table were highlighted as key pieces to achieve this aesthetic. The living room underwent a dramatic change, moving from a bland gray space to a spacious and intentional area. Architectural elements such as a stone fireplace, wall paneling, and exposed beams were added. A window seat extended the layout, creating a dedicated zone for relaxation. Despite using a neutral color scheme, the room felt interesting and inviting due to careful layering of creams and browns, combined with organic materials like linen and wood. This approach created a modern organic style that felt effortlessly cool and sophisticated. Key items for the living room included a brown glazed terracotta vase for sophistication, a Salvador end table for rustic charm, and a deep brown velvet throw pillow cover to add warmth and luxury. These elements contributed to the overall cozy and luxurious atmosphere, moving away from the initial stark, all-gray appearance. The bedroom was completely reimagined, with every element elevated to reflect Amber Lewis's signature rustic touch. The existing wood floor was complemented by a plush rug, adding warmth and coziness. A dated velvet bed frame was replaced with a sophisticated upholstered style that harmonized with richer brown tones. The stark black window frames were softened with a limewash finish, blending them seamlessly into the scheme and creating a more cohesive and harmonious look. High-quality organic linen bedding and a stylish Calabria Rustico table lamp were suggested as ways to emulate this rustic bedroom aesthetic. Finally, the home office was transformed with a focus on functionality and elegance. A built-in wood shelving unit provided practical storage while adding natural warmth. This room exuded a luxurious grandeur, enhanced by a bold gold desk placed centrally to contrast with the natural wood and evoke a high-end, mid-century style. The shelves were meticulously styled with vintage books and trinkets, and picture lights were added to create depth and highlight the aged accents against the new wood. Marble candlesticks and a Rome-themed coffee table book were recommended to achieve the sophisticated and elegant office ambiance. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ModernRusticStyle #AmberLewis #HomeTransformation #RusticDecor #NeutralPalette #OrganicMaterials #LuxuryDesign

Valencia-based studio Paloma Bau recently completed the renovation of a 55-square-metre beachfront apartment in Dénia, Spain, which now serves as a holiday home for its owner. The project, named Mediterrasian, aimed to blend East Asian and Mediterranean design influences while addressing inherent structural shortcomings of the original 2008 construction. The renovation focused on correcting common issues such as awkward ceiling drops for technical installations, poorly integrated pillars, unnecessary structural build-ups, and unresolved material junctions. Paloma Bau meticulously considered architectural detailing to achieve a coherent and streamlined aesthetic throughout the apartment. This approach prioritized functionality and visual harmony, ensuring that every element contributed to the overall design. Key to the Mediterranean influence is the incorporation of built-in elements, which serve to soften the interior and enhance practicality. For instance, bathrooms feature shelving integrated into curved corners, effectively zoning the shower area while providing discreet storage. Similarly, the living room and bedrooms benefit from recessed shelving and smooth-fronted, integrated cabinets, offering ample storage without introducing visual clutter. The material and color palette is intentionally neutral, creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. Light-colored oak cabinetry and shelving are consistently used across multiple rooms, providing a unifying element amidst varied textures. This choice of wood brings warmth and tactile richness, characteristic of Mediterranean design. East Asian influences are evident in several bespoke design elements. A floor-to-ceiling sliding door, separating the communal and private spaces, is a prominent example. Crafted from translucent, dappled glass with arc-shaped tracery, this door draws inspiration from traditional Japanese wooden-and-paper panels. The studio reimagined these materials in metal and cathedral glass, aiming to evoke the gentle movement of ocean waves. This artistic interpretation serves as a focal point and a functional divider. Further East Asian touches include rice paper lampshades and sheer linen curtains, which contribute to a light and airy ambiance. These delicate elements are thoughtfully contrasted with dark hardware on doors, adding a subtle touch of modernity and definition. The combination of these stylistic elements—the earthy warmth of Mediterranean design with the refined restraint of Asian aesthetics—defines the apartment's unique character. Custom-built volumes in the living space double as bases for the sofa and steps leading to the terrace, showcasing a smart integration of form and function. An archway gracefully connects the living area to the kitchen, repeating an architectural motif seen elsewhere. The design ethos prioritizes spatial mindfulness and clarity, ensuring that the relatively compact 55-square-metre space feels open and uncluttered. The project successfully marries the artisanal qualities often found in traditional Mediterranean homes with sophisticated architectural precision, resulting in a design that is both visually appealing and highly functional for a holiday residence. The renovation highlights how thoughtful design can transform a standard apartment into a unique space that reflects a nuanced blend of cultural aesthetics. #ApartmentRenovation #MediterraneanDesign #EastAsianInfluence #CoastalLiving #InteriorArchitecture #HolidayHome #NeutralPalette #PalomaBau #CustomMillwork

Modern European style represents a harmonious blend of traditional European charm and contemporary design, offering a versatile and enduring aesthetic for home interiors. This style is characterized by a neutral and sleek foundation, punctuated with strategic pops of color and appealing features. Designers emphasize its appeal as a balanced approach, distinguishing it from both purely traditional and strictly minimalist styles. At its core, modern European design prioritizes timelessness and a curated, collected feel. It avoids the transient nature of trends, instead focusing on creating spaces that tell a story and reflect the inhabitants' lives. Key elements include clean lines, minimalism, and a strong emphasis on functionality and comfort. The aesthetic often makes a space feel as though it has evolved organically over time, integrating new elements with a sense of history and permanence. The color palette for modern European interiors typically starts with a neutral base, incorporating shades of white, cream, beige, and various grays. These foundational colors establish a clean, airy, and versatile backdrop. To prevent the space from appearing sterile, designers introduce bolder accent colors such as deep blue, emerald green, mustard yellow, or rich burgundy. Alternatively, soft earth tones like taupe, terracotta, olive green, and sandy browns can be used to add warmth and a connection to nature, often appearing in textiles, furnishings, and accent pieces. Laetitia Laurent highlights that the base palette of creamy whites and wood tones is enriched with jewel tones like chartreuse, royal blue, and ruby red, adding depth and sophistication. Natural materials are integral to this design style, contributing to its authentic and lived-in feel. Materials such as plaster, oak wood, marble, limestone, and terracotta are frequently used, valued for their ability to patina gracefully over time, embracing imperfections as part of the aesthetic. Applied moldings and intricate millwork details further enhance the traditional European influence. The introduction of luxurious yet approachable fabrics like tweed, linen, silk, velvet, mohair, and leather in decor items brings a sense of coziness and tactile richness. Furniture in modern European style features clean lines and simple forms, leaning towards a contemporary aesthetic. Large investment pieces like sofas, dining tables, and coffee tables are chosen for their unfussy, classic shapes. These foundational pieces are then elevated with textured fabrics or design-focused centerpieces. The simplicity of the furniture ensures that the overall environment remains streamlined while allowing decorative elements to introduce color and charm. To achieve an authentic modern European look, designers suggest mixing pieces from various European countries and periods. This approach helps create a truly collected and storied interior, moving beyond a mere imitation of a single style. Incorporating French, Italian, English, and Scandinavian furnishings and decor items from different eras contributes to a rich and varied aesthetic. This blending of influences ensures the space feels genuinely reflective of European design heritage. Finally, displaying collected art and decor is crucial for infusing personality and charm into a modern European interior. This aligns with the current trend of eclectic, lived-in spaces. Art pieces, travel mementos, and curated trinkets can be strategically placed on shelves, walls, or other surfaces to add character. This personalization, whether through a gallery wall or a thoughtful arrangement of collected items, creates a calming, clean, and open space that is also rich with interesting artifacts and personal narratives. #ModernEuropeanStyle #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #NaturalMaterials #TimelessDesign #EclecticInteriors #FunctionalComfort

This article offers a comprehensive tour of Camille Styles' Mediterranean-style home in Austin, detailing the design journey and the evolution of each space over 13 years. The home, which was built from the ground up after acquiring an overgrown lot with an old 1950s house, reflects a 'warm minimalism' aesthetic, blending simplicity with comfort. A significant inspiration for the design came from a honeymoon trip to Italy, leading to the incorporation of Mediterranean elements like terra cotta, plaster, olive trees, and jasmine in the landscaping. A key feature of the home is the use of American Clay, a natural earth plaster from New Mexico, for the walls. The shade 'Forté White' covers the entire downstairs, providing a matte, earthy, organic, nontoxic, and eco-friendly finish. The living room is characterized by abundant natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, achieved through large steel doors that open onto the patio, connecting the space to the backyard. The kitchen, a central hub for recipe development and family meals, initially lacked natural light, prompting strategic use of light colors and styling. A significant update involved replacing a stainless steel venthood with a custom plaster surround and installing bright white Caesarstone countertops in 'Cloudburst Concrete' with a waterfall edge and continuous sink. The backyard is highlighted as a favorite space, representing 12 years of work and continuous evolution. It features an outdoor lounge area and an infinity-edged pool designed to evoke the feeling of being built into a cliff, with dark tiles reminiscent of the Mediterranean. The lower backyard, previously an unusable hillside, has undergone a remarkable transformation, earning recognition in Architectural Digest. The primary bedroom serves as a sanctuary, featuring a custom-designed bed made from unstained white oak with integrated sconces and a corner window ideal for morning coffee and evening relaxation. Camille's tiny office, an alcove off the kitchen, was reconfigured with a floating white oak desk for efficiency and a clutter-free environment. The media room, which has served various purposes over the years, is now a family space for movies and video games, designed with durability and a consistent color palette in mind. The studio, located in a converted guest bedroom, is a light-filled space used for shooting recipe content and Casa Zuma products, created on a budget to foster collaboration. The family office, primarily used by Adam, aims for a minimalist and clean aesthetic to promote clear thinking, often housing Casa Zuma prototypes. Finally, a loft area, which previously functioned as a playroom and TV room, has been transformed into a meditation room—a low-stimuli environment for relaxation, yoga, and pilates. The article concludes by emphasizing the home's role as a canvas for creativity and inspiration, with each room telling a unique story of its evolution alongside the family. #HomeTour #MediterraneanDesign #WarmMinimalism #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #OutdoorLiving #AustinHome #DesignInspiration #CamilleStyles

Melissa Oholendt, founder of Oho Interiors, has carved out a unique niche in the interior design world with her distinctive “Elevated Cozy” aesthetic. Although she initially pursued a finance degree, her passion for interior design, ignited by a childhood bedroom's Ralph Lauren Polo bears and the challenge of matching navy paint, eventually led her to launch her Minneapolis-based firm in 2019, which now extends its services to Colorado and beyond. Oholendt's early years in business, coinciding with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, were a period of intense, hands-on learning. Without formal design education or prior experience in a design firm, she navigated the complexities of the industry, developing her expertise project by project. This rigorous self-education paid off significantly, leading to her first hire in 2022 and subsequent expansion of her team to seven by the following year, allowing her to focus more on creative direction. The Oho Interiors style is characterized by a fresh interpretation of traditional design, drawing heavily from English and European influences. Oholendt describes her approach as a blend of diverse elements: the vibrant color palettes found in English design, the natural materials and warmth of Belgian aesthetics, and the playful, unexpected curves seen in French and Spanish styles. This eclectic mix contributes to spaces that feel both sophisticated and inviting. Central to Oholendt's design philosophy is the concept of “Elevated Cozy.” She aims to create environments where clients can comfortably relax, kicking off their shoes and enjoying a glass of wine, yet also feel prepared to host an impromptu dinner party. This balance between comfort and elegance is a guiding principle for her team. While they appreciate and utilize a broad spectrum of colors, they also demonstrate restraint, knowing when to employ a neutral palette for a harmonious effect. Her designs often feature rich, deep hues, such as mulberry walls, complemented by carefully selected furnishings like leather ottomans and chintz drapery. A key aspect of Oholendt’s work is her belief in selecting pieces that improve with age, fostering a “nothing is too precious” mentality. This ensures that the interiors not only look beautiful upon completion but also develop character and charm over time, evolving gracefully as they are lived in. This timeless approach ensures that her projects retain their appeal and functionality for years, truly aging to perfection within a dynamic living environment. Oholendt shared insights into her design process, including a cherished antique, hoofed side table she's held onto for the perfect project. She encourages her team to step outside their comfort zones, citing a recent bathroom project featuring pink tile balanced with classic white and black accents, a campaign-style vanity, and polished nickel fixtures. Her dream collaboration would be with Casa Gusto, envisioning a collection of pattern-heavy upholstery and hand-painted furniture. She also expressed admiration for Ellen of Great Florals, known for her delft-inspired pottery, which frequently appears in Oholendt's own home. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ElevatedCozy #TraditionalDesign #EuropeanInfluences #ColorPalette #TimelessDesign #MelissaOholendt #OhoInteriors

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

The author shares a comprehensive home tour of her Mediterranean-style residence in Austin, detailing the evolution of the property over 16 years. The journey began with the purchase of an old 1950s house on an overgrown lot, which was then rebuilt from the ground up with architect Ryan Street. This process, initially daunting, ignited a passion for design and construction in the author and her husband. Despite living in the house for 13 years, the home is viewed as an ongoing project, with yearly updates reflecting evolving tastes and needs. The aesthetic of the home is described as "warm minimalism," aiming for simplicity while maintaining a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. A significant Mediterranean influence is evident, stemming from the author's honeymoon in Italy. This inspiration led to the incorporation of materials like terracotta and plaster, as well as plants such as olive trees and jasmine in the landscaping. Key features and design choices across various rooms are highlighted. The walls throughout the house are plastered with American Clay in Forté White, a natural earth plaster known for its soft, organic, non-toxic, and eco-friendly qualities. The living room emphasizes natural light and indoor-outdoor flow, featuring large steel doors that open completely to the patio and backyard. The kitchen, a central hub for recipe development and family meals, initially faced challenges with natural light, leading to strategic color and styling choices. A recent kitchen update replaced a stainless steel vent hood with a custom plaster surround and upgraded countertops to white Caesarstone in a Cloudburst Concrete finish, including a continuous Caesarstone sink. The backyard is presented as the author's favorite space, a result of 12 years of work. It includes an outdoor lounge area and an infinity-edged pool designed to mimic a cliffside setting, offering views of the tree canopy. The dark tiles of the pool evoke Mediterranean waters. The lower backyard, once an unusable dirt hillside, has been transformed into a featured landscape, even appearing in Architectural Digest, and remains a continuous project. The primary bedroom serves as a sanctuary for relaxation, with a corner window ideal for morning coffee or evening journaling. A custom-designed bed made from unstained white oak features built-in sconces. Other areas include a small alcove office connected to the kitchen, a media room for the children that has evolved from a gym and home office, a dedicated studio for recipe photography, a minimalist family office, and a meditation room that was previously a playroom and TV room. The children's rooms reflect their individual personalities, with Henry's room being organized and Phoebe's featuring collections and large windows with city views. The article concludes by emphasizing the home's role as a canvas for creativity and inspiration, with each room telling a story. #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #WarmMinimalism #MediterraneanStyle #AustinHome #HomeRenovation #BackyardDesign #PlasterWalls #CustomFurniture

The Patio House, designed by Solum Studio, is a residential project located in Sicily, Italy, specifically in the province of Syracuse. The house is positioned on a narrow strip of land that extends towards the sea, concluding on a cliff, and is designed to fully occupy the buildable area of the plot. Its architectural concept focuses on creating an introverted oasis that strategically opens up to embrace the seascape through its living areas. The design of the Patio House is characterized by its longitudinal development, running from the access road towards the sea. This layout allows for a sequential experience, starting from an enclosed, private arrival point and gradually transitioning to expansive views of the sea. The introverted nature of the initial spaces provides a sense of seclusion and privacy, which then gives way to an open and airy living area that acts as a direct interface with the natural coastal environment. Key architectural elements and materials used in the project include concrete, which contributes to the structural integrity and aesthetic of the building. The choice of materials and the overall design aim to create a harmonious balance between robust construction and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The project's emphasis on a patio or courtyard structure suggests an interior-focused design that likely incorporates natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience while maintaining privacy from external views, except for the deliberate openings towards the sea. The project was completed in 2025 and covers an area of 400 square meters. The architectural team involved Mattia Agates, Lorenzo Campagna, Filippo Gismondi, and Alessandro Loda from Solum Studio, with Gian Mario Vecchiato as a collaborator. Nicolò Panzeri is credited for the photography, capturing the essence of the house and its relationship with the Sicilian landscape. Manufacturers such as Carl Hansen, Fornace Sant'Anselmo, Ideal Work, Sicilianagessi, and dnd contributed to various aspects of the house, indicating a selection of quality materials and furnishings. This residential architecture project is categorized under houses and highlights contemporary design principles tailored to its unique coastal site. The strategic placement and orientation of the house demonstrate an understanding of both environmental factors and the desire to create a private yet visually connected living space. The use of a patio and the intentional opening towards the sea suggest a thoughtful approach to balancing indoor and outdoor living, privacy, and engagement with the natural surroundings. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Avola #Italy #SolumStudio #Concrete #CoastalDesign #PatioHouse

The San Francisco home of interior designer Anu Jain, founder of Atelier Oleana, is a testament to the harmonious blend of vintage charm and contemporary aesthetics. This 100-year-old Tudor-style residence, acquired by Jain and her husband four years prior, captivated her with its rich architectural details, including dark hardwood floors, high ceilings, brass fixtures, and tall casement windows. Jain, who transitioned from a career in tech to pursue her passion for design, personally undertook the renovation and interior styling, balancing it with her professional projects and family life. The living room serves as a focal point, meticulously designed around an original centenarian stone-carved fireplace. The walls are adorned with rosy beige Phillip Jeffries wallpaper, mimicking fabric texture, while the ceiling is painted in Benjamin Moore’s 'Whipped Mocha.' The upholstery and furniture selections maintain a consistent old-world color scheme. A striking contrast is introduced by a matte-black single-tiered chandelier by Philippe Malouin for Matter, exemplifying Jain's philosophy of blending different eras and elements. The room features a vintage rattan trunk coffee table and a couch upholstered in Pierre Frey’s Teddy Mohair, known for its lush pile. A custom-made chair in dusty rose velvet by F. Schumacher & Co. and a Hadar Lounge Chair by De La Espada, crafted from leather and timber, further enhance the room's eclectic yet cohesive design. In contrast to the living room's warm brown tones, the dining room embraces shades of green. Jain transformed the space by painting the walls in a minty green, replacing the original chinoiserie wallpaper, to create a minimal and fresh ambiance. A marble-topped dining table is paired with olive-colored chairs, also upholstered in Pierre Frey’s Teddy Mohair, and a sage green floor. Decorative Fornasetti plates adorn the walls, complemented by an 'Arrow' chandelier from design studio Apparatus, crafted from metal and suede. Jain emphasizes her appreciation for lighting, describing it as her "love language." This intentional color transition between rooms creates distinct moods while maintaining overall cohesion within the home. Jain's design approach consistently highlights the home's inherent architectural features, such as arches and a courtyard, which she notes evoke memories of India's ornate architecture and outdoor living spaces. Her background in India also instilled a deep appreciation for rich textiles, leading her to prioritize investing in quality fabrics for her designs. This is evident in various corners of the house, including a reading nook in the living room, which features patterned furnishings and plain textile curtains, and the foyer. The foyer, with its Benjamin Moore ‘Butter Pecan’ walls, showcases a bench upholstered in Dedar Milano’s Tiger Mountain fabric, inspired by Tibetan carpets, in a vibrant golden hue. These details collectively create a home that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a personal archive of her design philosophy and cultural influences. #SanFranciscoHome #InteriorDesign #VintageModern #AnuJain #AtelierOleana #TudorArchitecture #CollectibleDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors

The article details the transformation of a 1959 mid-century home in Brentwood, California, initially a small kitchen renovation project, into a comprehensive redesign by French-born interior designer Victoria Gillet. The property belongs to model and presenter Shana Hiatt and film producer Todd Garner. The original structure, designed by Kenneth Lind, was 3,000 square feet and was expanded to 3,700 square feet with the addition of a guesthouse and an outdoor bar, both designed to seamlessly match the existing architecture. The house's original layout emphasized indoor-outdoor living, with doors opening directly to a Zen garden, a feature that Gillet further enhanced. Gillet's design philosophy for this project was to blend French elegance with Southern California energy, utilizing natural materials and bold accents. Her vision was significantly influenced by artists such as Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, and Alexander Calder, which led to the incorporation of vibrant colors like blue, pink, orange, and yellow throughout the home. These bold hues, combined with playful shapes, contribute to a joyful and lively atmosphere. The material palette is rich and varied, featuring walnut, cement tile, velvet, and brass. Gillet notes that velvet adds depth, warmth, and a luxurious, cozy feel, while brass introduces an element of opulence and a nostalgic charm. The renovation focused on maximizing the home's stunning views and promoting an indoor-outdoor lifestyle, achieved through numerous windows that invite the outside in. The outdoor spaces are designed for entertaining, boasting a pool and spa area, captivating canyon vistas, a bar, and a fireplace. The garden was completely redesigned to evoke a touch of Provence, France, complementing the Southern California setting. Key design elements and furnishings include a mobile by Jim Hunter from 1stdibs, an Anissa Kermiche vase on a custom walnut brass credenza at the entry, and a Revoar swing by Marta Manente near a fireplace, contributing to a relaxed ambiance. In the dining room, custom pink velvet chairs surround a custom dining table featuring vintage brass legs and a live-edge monkey pod wood top, all illuminated by a Circa Lighting chandelier. The living room showcases a custom colorful sofa and ottoman, resting on a blue silk rug and lit by an Eichholtz fixture. A commissioned artwork by Claire Desjardins adorns the back wall. The main bedroom includes a custom bed by Shine by S.H.O, a Circa Lighting pendant, and a Jonathan Adler nightstand. The family room is equipped with a custom solid walnut library, a custom sofa, a Jonathan Adler table lamp, an R&Y Augousti side table, a vintage 1970s chair, and an Arteriors coffee table. The outdoor area features a custom sofa with colorful Schumacher pillows, protected by Tuuci umbrellas, further emphasizing the home's focus on comfortable and stylish outdoor living. #SoCalHome #MidCenturyDesign #InteriorDesign #VictoriaGillet #BrentwoodCalifornia #ColorfulInteriors #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ResidentialDesign

The author, Hanya Yanagihara, reflects on the concept of 'home,' noting that her transient upbringing across nine cities and 20 residences prevented her from associating the idea with a single physical space. Instead, her sense of rootedness is derived from an accumulation of specific details, rooms, furniture, and light from the various places she inhabited. This personal reflection introduces a broader exploration of diverse relationships with the notion of home, as presented in T Magazine's Design Issue. The article highlights several distinct examples of family residences, each offering a unique perspective on what constitutes a home. One featured residence is a mountain compound in Brazil, meticulously constructed by furniture designer Etel Carmona and her grown children. This compound is designed to accommodate three generations, balancing communal living with the need for individual privacy for each family member. This arrangement demonstrates a contemporary approach to multi-generational living, where shared spaces coexist with distinct personal areas. Another case study involves an English art dealer in Italy who decides to rededicate himself to Venice, a city with which he has a complex relationship. His new apartment, situated in a 17th-century palazzo, surprisingly turns out to be a place he was familiar with during his teenage years. This narrative explores the serendipitous return to a place that held previous personal significance, illustrating how history and personal memory can intertwine with one's definition of home. The story suggests that familiarity and a sense of connection can transcend the novelty of a new dwelling, transforming it into a deeply personal space. The cover story of the Design Issue focuses on the three residences created by the Swedish painter Carl Larsson and his wife, Karin, located north of Stockholm. Their first house, Lilla Hyttnäs, has been maintained by their descendants since the 1940s, with parts accessible to visitors and others remaining private. This home, more than a century after the Larssons' passing, continues to preserve their artistic legacy, furniture, and overall spirit, while also adapting to the improvisations and additions introduced by subsequent generations. This longevity and evolving nature of the Larsson home exemplify a living history, where a residence becomes a vessel for enduring family heritage and creative expression. The Larssons' original vision for their home was revolutionary for its time, rejecting the perceived monotony of bourgeois design characterized by dark furniture and neo-Renaissance styles. Instead, they championed folk art, craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and a sense of coziness. Their intention was to create an environment that felt inherently like a 'home,' rather than merely a 'house.' This distinction underscores the emotional and experiential qualities that define a true home, emphasizing comfort, personal expression, and a departure from conventional, often sterile, architectural norms. The article concludes by reinforcing the idea that a home is not just a structure but a dynamic entity shaped by personal histories, family connections, and artistic values. #HomeDesign #FamilyResidences #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyle #BrazilianDesign #VenetianApartment #SwedishArt #MultiGenerationalLiving

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a lakeside villa in the Algarve, Portugal, undertaken by Architecture and Interior Design Studio De Rosee Sa. The project aimed to modernize a dated property, transforming its fragmented layout into an open-plan living space while preserving its traditional Portuguese aesthetic and incorporating elements of a modern English style. The clients, who had been visiting the Algarve for over two decades, sought a home suitable for year-round use as their family grew, explicitly requesting to avoid a 'beachy' feel. The renovation focused on unifying the original split-level ground floor to create a continuous, expansive, and fluid area ideal for entertaining and daily family life. This involved reimagining a dated conservatory with large windows to maximize natural light and garden views. The design process began with a mood board that blended traditional Portuguese coastal homes with contemporary, pared-back interiors, reflecting the client's preference for softer finishes, layered textures, and classic English kitchen details. The objective was to achieve a warm, lived-in, and comfortable atmosphere year-round, successfully integrating the relaxed, open feel of a Portuguese home with traditional English interior charm. The design approach emphasized atmosphere and materiality over overt stylistic references, leveraging the Mediterranean backdrop of sunlight and natural textures. Local materials like stone, timber, and marble were used, but with refined finishes and tailored joinery reminiscent of English interiors. The color palette moved away from stark white, exploring subtle hues of light pink, soft green, and gentle off-white for communal areas to add character without overwhelming the space. The dining room, a central hub for family and friends, was furnished with a bespoke walnut dining table seating ten, complemented by a sculptural pendant light and walnut detailing in the adjacent kitchen to ensure visual cohesion. Bathrooms were designed with distinct material palettes; family bathrooms featured Portuguese Estremoz White marble for a timeless aesthetic, while the master suite showcased a bolder Verde Viana marble paired with Farrow & Ball’s Dimity. A unique sculptural moment was created in the powder room with a bespoke marble sink, its raw front face highlighting the stone’s natural texture against a limewashed wall. The designers also integrated several vintage pieces and artwork sourced from various markets, personalizing the space and tying the different elements together. Challenges encountered included a language barrier and managing the project remotely from another country. Sustainability was a key consideration, leading to extensive sourcing of materials like marble, tiles, and stone within Portugal to reduce shipping impacts. For UK suppliers, those with European distribution points were prioritized. The use of marble flooring also contributed to sustainability by naturally regulating indoor temperatures during hot summer months. The most transformative aspect of the renovation was deemed to be the living areas, which evolved from disconnected rooms into a light, expansive, and modern open-plan space seamlessly connecting to the garden and pool, while retaining a homely feel. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #PortugueseInteriors #EnglishAesthetic #AlgarveVilla #OpenPlanLiving #SustainableDesign #LuxuryInteriors #MaterialPalette

European interior design, encompassing diverse styles like Italian, French, English, Scandinavian, and Spanish, is celebrated for its ability to blend tradition with enduring charm and elegance. This approach emphasizes history, craftsmanship, and the beauty of the natural world, resulting in timeless and stylish homes. Interior designers frequently draw inspiration from these sensibilities, integrating key elements into their projects to create sophisticated and inviting spaces. This includes high ceilings with exposed beams, rustic flooring like stone or terracotta (often in a checkerboard pattern), abundant wood tones, old-world art, and an appreciation for luxurious natural materials such as marble. To infuse European romance and `je ne sais quoi` into a home, designers recommend focusing on several core lessons. Craftsmanship forms the backbone of European design, prioritizing well-made pieces over fleeting trends. This involves preserving traditions and showcasing artistry through hand-carved furniture, intricate moldings, and specialized wall finishes like Venetian plaster. Investing in high-quality, durable materials ensures longevity and a timeless aesthetic. Similarly, old-world and vintage art, including classic oil paintings, sculptures, and tapestries, add layers of depth, intrigue, and a sense of history. These pieces can evoke nostalgia and fascination, transporting occupants to different eras and cultures. Designers suggest exploring antique shops, auctions, and online marketplaces for pieces that resonate with personal style, encouraging a curated, eclectic mix of different art styles and periods. European homes also masterfully blend the old and the new, creating transitional spaces that feel both classic and contemporary. This eclectic approach involves juxtaposing antique furnishings, vintage textiles, art, and decor with modern fixtures and fittings. Such a mix helps to create interiors rich in character, history, and personality, while also ensuring functionality. Vintage or vintage-inspired lighting and accessories are particularly effective in adding a European flavor, contributing to spaces that appear thoughtfully curated and lived-in. Another distinctive feature is the use of living finishes, which evolve and develop a natural patina over time. Materials like aged metals, natural stone, unlacquered brass, or copper lend warmth, character, and reflect the life and history of the space. Imperfect textiles, such as silk velvet that shows wear or tapestry-like fabrics with antique charm, further enhance this authentic, grounded aesthetic. A serene color palette, typically featuring soft, muted tones like pale blues, earthy greens, and warm neutrals, is another hallmark of European design. These colors, often inspired by the natural landscape, create a sense of calm and serenity, steering clear of overwhelming bright hues. Designers like Marie Flanigan advocate for this approach, particularly drawing from Belgian influences that combine elegance, simplicity, and natural materials like weathered wood, stone, wool, and linen. The strategic addition of unlacquered brass or polished nickel in fixtures and hardware further elevates the luxury of these spaces. While European interiors exude a sense of grandeur, the key is not to overdo it. The focus is on quality over quantity, investing in timeless pieces, and incorporating luxurious materials like marble, velvet, and brass. The aim is to create a layered scheme that prioritizes comfort and reflects a certain effortless elegance. Finally, bringing the outside in is a significant aspect of European design. This involves integrating elements of nature into living environments through indoor gardens, living walls, and water features, which foster a sense of rejuvenation. Large windows frame picturesque views, allowing natural light to flood the space and promoting biophilic design. The use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and rattan further blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Incorporating antique olive jars and aged copper gas lanterns can add a romantic, bygone-era charm, reinforcing the seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces. By adopting these seven lessons, one can create a home that not only reflects personal style but also evokes a rich sense of history, culture, and sophistication characteristic of European design. #EuropeanInteriorDesign #Craftsmanship #VintageArt #EclecticDecor #LivingFinishes #SereneColorPalette #LuxuryInteriors #BiophilicDesign #TimelessStyle

This article highlights the renovation of a five-bedroom family home in Sydney’s east, masterminded by interior designer Jemma Brender in collaboration with architectural firm Place Studio. The owners, a young family, sought to blend sophisticated design with practical liveability, particularly with a toddler and a newborn. The house, purchased in 2016, captivated them with its harbor views, classic architecture, and Spanish-influenced facade, particularly the grand staircase in the entry and a wood-fired pizza oven. However, the existing layout was dated, with a peachy exterior and reddish timber interior, and suffered from disconnected, dark communal areas located on the south side, away from desirable views. The renovation aimed to reorient the floor plan to leverage the northern aspect and harbor vistas. A key objective was to create an airy, open-plan living space with a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, while meticulously preserving the home’s heritage character. The owners desired a design that was traditional enough to complement the exterior but also fresh and contemporary. Jemma Brender, drawing inspiration from French interior designer Christian Liaigre, focused on natural hues, layered textures, clean lines, and meticulous attention to detail. This approach allowed for a 'tone-on-tone' style that effectively modernized the traditional elements of the home. Significant changes on the ground floor included converting a northern corner bedroom into a new kitchen, with its former ensuite and walk-in closet repurposed for casual dining and living areas. The formal dining room, designed to seat ten, was relocated to where the main living zone previously existed, a more logical placement for evening use. A bedroom and family room on the south side were retained without significant changes. The material palette for the interiors emphasized relaxed yet durable furnishings suitable for a family with young children. Linens, outdoor fabrics adapted for indoor use, and oak joinery were chosen for their robustness and earthy, stain-camouflaging tones. Carrara marble was utilized for benchtops in the kitchen and vanities in bathrooms, with specific tapware and lighting fixtures chosen to enhance the overall aesthetic. Illustrations throughout the article showcase the transformed spaces, featuring custom-designed sofas by Jemma Brender, Cadrys rugs, Orient House side tables, and lighting from Fred International and The General Trading Company. Artworks from Art2Muse Gallery and accessories from various high-end brands contribute to the sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance. The bedroom features custom bedheads and joinery, with textiles from Ondene and Maison et Jardin, and sconces from Bloomingdales Lighting. Bathrooms display custom joinery and marble surfaces, alongside fixtures from Candana and Brodware. The owner expressed satisfaction with the outcome, appreciating Jemma's aesthetic that successfully married contemporary elements with the home’s traditional foundation, creating a harmonious and calming environment for family life. #FrenchInfluence #NeutralPalette #FamilyHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SydneyHome #OpenPlanLiving #HeritageCharacter #ContemporaryStyle

Boho-style living rooms are recognized for their eclectic and collected aesthetic, combining various styles, objects, and materials in a seemingly effortless manner. While many contemporary boho spaces lean towards neutral palettes with white walls, rattan furniture, and abundant plants, the style's historical roots are characterized by a vibrant mix of global artifacts, colors, and patterns. Modern designers are increasingly re-embracing these more eccentric aspects to create personalized looks that are warm and inviting without appearing cluttered. Key design principles for achieving a lasting boho-style living room include embracing a neutral color palette, which helps minimize visual clutter and creates a serene backdrop. Interior designer Katelyn De Spain emphasizes using earthy, muted tones and inviting textures to foster a calming environment. When incorporating rattan, a hallmark of boho style, it should be used judiciously to avoid an overly styled or one-dimensional look, as advised by De Spain. Juxtaposing different textures, such as bouclé sofas, limewash walls, sculptural plaster accents, and plush Moroccan rugs, adds depth and prevents a tonal palette from appearing flat. For those with a maximalist inclination, styling open shelves with curated ceramics and vintage books while maintaining a cohesive tonal palette ensures visual harmony. Plants are an essential element, energizing the space and adding a natural dimension. Emilie Fournet, another expert designer, suggests varying plant pot heights to create layered visual interest. Walls painted in warm whites with red or yellow undertones provide an inviting glow and serve as a neutral canvas, allowing color to be introduced through fabrics, accessories, and art. If a more colorful boho aesthetic is desired, defining a main color palette and distributing those accents throughout the room can prevent visual busyness. Designing a boho-style living room involves balancing minimalism with controlled injections of color and a pared-back maximalism. Emphasizing comfortable seating, thick rugs, and natural fabrics contributes to a warm, cozy, yet light and peaceful atmosphere. Achieving balance is crucial; for instance, a vibrant rug can be paired with neutral walls to prevent visual conflict. Designers also recommend avoiding overly clichéd elements like mass-produced macramé, favoring unique handmade pieces or DIY wall decor instead. Layered lighting from various sources, including wall lights, floor lamps, and table lamps with warm bulbs, creates an inviting ambiance. Bohemian interiors frequently blend disparate styles. Midcentury modern, with its soft and uncomplicated lines, pairs well with the warm and eclectic nature of boho design. However, it is important to balance mixed styles to achieve an effortless look. Incorporating elements such as wall baskets, floor cushions, or layered rugs can introduce texture and a laid-back feel. For spaces with extensive collections, an accent wall with built-in shelves can display objects and art in a curated manner. A minimalist boho living room can benefit from a "hero piece" that adds bold personality, such as a brightly colored sofa. Decorating with pampas grass adds height and a distinctive boho touch. Finally, the wabi-sabi philosophy, which celebrates natural finishes, organic forms, and the beauty of imperfection, aligns well with modern boho design, and mixing various materials like wood, tile, leather, and natural fibers creates a streamlined yet rich visual interest. #BohoStyle #LivingRoomDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #TexturalElements #Houseplants #EclecticDecor #MidcenturyModern