Anastasia Mirzoyan Offers a Fresh Take on the Bauhaus Aesthetic for a Historic Apartment

The article explores Art Nouveau design, a movement originating in Belgium in the late 19th century, characterized by undulating curves, asymmetrical lines, and earthy colors and motifs. It differentiates Art Nouveau from the later Art Deco movement and highlights the influence of Czech painter Alphonse Mucha, whose iconic posters, featuring botanical elements and curved archways, became synonymous with the style in France. The piece then guides readers through preserved historical Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels, beginning with Maison Hannon. This corner townhouse, built in 1902 and recently restored, showcases a blend of botany and antiquity through intricate mosaic floors, stained-glass windows that cast golden light, a theatrical spiral staircase with wrought-iron railings, and frescos reminiscent of Mucha's art. The design emphasizes natural light permeating every corner, creating an ethereal escape. Further exploring Brussels, the article details the Horta Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to architect Victor Horta, considered a father of Art Nouveau. Horta's former home is furnished with custom-designed items like flower-shaped lamps and curved wooden chairs, reflecting his integrated design approach. Other Art Nouveau sites by Horta, such as Hotel Solvay, are mentioned as grand mansions where the style meets maximalism. Outside Brussels, the Zurenborg neighborhood in Antwerp is presented as a charming example of diverse Art Nouveau exteriors, demonstrating that the style is not limited to verdant hues. Transitioning to Singapore, the article notes the scarcity of Art Nouveau architecture compared to Art Deco but highlights Dragonfly Singapore, a new Art Nouveau-inspired cocktail bar conceptualized by Australian designer Ashley Sutton. For Singaporean homeowners interested in incorporating Art Nouveau, the article offers practical suggestions. Despite the limitations of apartment living, laser-cut wood paneling can replicate intricate detailing. Stained-glass film from online platforms like Etsy provides an option to diffuse sunlight or decorate glass doors with Art Nouveau motifs. Decorative wrought-iron grilles with botanical flair from suppliers like M Aluminium & Glass can enhance metal gates. Additionally, lighting shops such as Horizon Lights offer floral-inspired chandeliers and lights that embody the Art Nouveau aesthetic. The article concludes by emphasizing the enduring appeal of Art Nouveau, which, even today, offers a visually pleasing outlet for whimsy and elegance, connecting people to the fluidity and harmony of the natural world amid increasing urbanization. #ArtNouveau #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #BrusselsArchitecture #SingaporeDesign #HomeRenovation #HistoricalBuildings #DesignInspiration

Art Deco, a style characterized by geometric patterns, animal prints, and glitz, continues to captivate over a century after its inception. While genuine Art Deco residences from the 1920s and '30s are rare, many individuals seek to infuse this historic style into modern homes. This article showcases seven distinctive homes that either preserve original Art Deco elements or are inspired by its opulent aesthetic. One featured residence is designer Wesley Moon's Park Avenue apartment, where gilded wall panels, reminiscent of Paris’s Restaurant Le Gabriel, utilize customized wallpaper to create a delicate and neutral backdrop for salon-style art. Moon’s approach involves reinterpreting classical elements for contemporary times, as seen in a marble fireplace mantel embossed with python scales and turquoise molding, a collaboration with Cocobolo gallery director Benjamin Wiener. The apartment blends Old World grandeur with modern sensibilities. In Melbourne, interior designer Greg Natale transformed a 4,000-square-foot penthouse into a lavish space inspired by the owners' luxury watch and jewelry business. Natale infused the formerly minimalist apartment with jewel tones, particularly pink and maroon, creating a grand entrance with mirrored panels and arches. Sculptural Kelly Wearstler lights and a postmodern Art Deco rug further enhance the glamorous and sultry ambiance, reflecting both the owners' and Natale's love for luxury. Washington, D.C.-based interior designer Lorna Gross reimagined an 1870 row house in Georgetown, drawing inspiration from the golden age of travel and the Orient Express. The client, a writer and historian, desired a home that evoked the feel of a bespoke train car. Gross installed antique furnishings and lighting from the 1930s on the first level, creating an Art Deco-period atmosphere in the long and narrow space. Antique chandeliers were re-envisioned, and wall coverings provided a warm setting for a mix of antique and contemporary pieces. In a New York City high-rise, designer Alexander Doherty and architect Danielle Albert undertook a dramatic renovation of a top-floor unit. To achieve a unique and refined interior, they reworked the layout, extended the living space, and increased ceiling height by relocating ductwork. A lake-like depression in the ceiling, covered in 24-carat gold leaf, adds glimmer and enlarges the room. Doherty selected Art Deco and modernist pieces from Paris galleries and international auction houses to furnish the space, creating a style that complements the contemporary glass structure. A Dublin home, designed by LyonsKelly, transforms an unassuming 1930s semi-detached house into a spacious, arching gallery. The design firm created a unified architectural and interior vision, resulting in a three-story house with a basement. The procession of rooms on the ground floor, with formal areas at the front and family spaces overlooking the garden, embodies an Art Deco spirit while maintaining a timeless appeal. Celebrity chef turned interior designer Travis London found his ideal home in a 1940 Miami town house. The property featured pristine original Art Deco details, including a fireplace, travertine floors, and interior arches. London embraced the home's character, using it as a canvas for self-expression and a showcase for his design business, Studio London Co. The dining area, for instance, features Jonathan Adler chairs in pink velvet around a brass Boca do Lobo table, exemplifying a chic and grown-up aesthetic. Finally, a Chicago co-op in a prestigious 1920s building underwent a significant transformation by Jessica LaGrange. Moving away from its dated decor, LaGrange guided the design with the building's history, creating a high-contrast home. A custom terrazzo-and-bronze circular design, inlaid in the foyer, serves as a focal point, radiating like a sunburst and setting an Art Deco-inspired yet exceedingly modern tone for the art-collecting couple's pied-à-terre. #ArtDeco #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalRenovation #DesignInspiration #ModernArtDeco #HistoricHomes #GlamorousInteriors

The article details the design process and outcome of a new build home in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which was specifically crafted to possess a timeless, lived-in feel, rather than appearing brand new. Interior designer Victoria Sass spearheaded this project for a family of five, collaborating with architecture firm Murphy & Co. The core challenge was to infuse character and an aged aesthetic into a modern construction, a task Sass describes as surprisingly difficult. The design philosophy aimed to avoid the 'too perfect' trap often associated with new builds by incorporating elements that mimic the natural irregularities and evolved nature of older homes, such as slightly unconventional floor plans and asymmetrical shapes. The initial design brief from the homeowners favored an understated, classic American white brick house, reflecting a 'casual but tailored' sensibility. This led to plans emphasizing wooden balconies, large windows, screened verandas, and a traditional porch, all situated to capitalize on the tranquil waterside setting near Minnehaha Creek. The interior adopted a traditional color palette of off-whites, rusts, and caramels, complemented by oak flooring and timber windows, establishing a grounding backdrop across the home's three main living levels. A significant shift occurred in the design direction when the family spent time in Barcelona during a pause in construction. This experience broadened their perspective, prompting a desire for more color and 'joie de vivre' upon their return. Victoria Sass adapted the design to incorporate these new influences, focusing on furniture, fabrics, hardware, and lighting to introduce unexpected and vibrant elements. This strategic re-evaluation led to the inclusion of unique pieces such as a mosaic table made from corn husks, sourced from a Spanish artist, and a sculptural 'Moon light' art installation in the entryway. Further examples of this evolved design approach include a powder room vanity adorned with distinctively mismatched tiles, deliberately chosen to evoke Mediterranean design aesthetics, and a dining room featuring a bespoke wall mural by Ginny Sims. This mural intricately weaves in the family's personal story, adding a deeply customized and playful touch. The snug area boasts a chimney breast finished with hand-fired tiles, which Sass notes might subtly reference Scandinavian coziness, reflecting her husband's Danish heritage. Across the home, there's a strong emphasis on varied textures—from large-scale photographic prints and custom wall sculptures to marbleized wallpaper in the study—contributing to a rich, almost three-dimensional feel. Victoria Sass highlights the delicate balance required to integrate diverse decorative influences while maintaining a cohesive overall aesthetic. She explains that a consistent color palette and careful consideration of scale are crucial for harmonizing these elements. The designer emphasizes that if one design 'dial' is turned up, another must be adjusted to ensure equilibrium. The final result is a home that seamlessly combines classic and experimental features, juxtaposing graphic silhouettes with undulating forms. This blend achieves what Sass terms a 'perfectly imperfect' outcome, effectively transforming a new construction into a residence that embodies the charm and character of an older, well-established home. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #NewBuild #TimelessArchitecture #MinneapolisHome #VictoriaSass #HomeTours #DesignPhilosophy #ArchitecturalRenovation

The article discusses the renovation of an apartment located at 99 Spring Street in Melbourne, a modernist building completed in 1971. The apartment's transformation, undertaken by March Studio, aimed to create a 'house in the sky' that is materially rich and deeply connected to its urban surroundings. The building itself, known as the 'tower of power' in the 1980s due to its notable residents, was designed by Moore and Hammond and is considered an early example of the podium-tower model in urban architecture. The renovation pays homage to the building's 1970s origins while introducing a sophisticated vision for urban domestic life. March Studio's intervention in the apartment involved embracing and enhancing the existing bronze anodized aluminum glazing suites with a mix of shiny and weathered brass, stainless steel, and aluminum, creating a gilded aesthetic. A notable feature is the reflective aluminum ceiling system, inspired by Peter McIntyre's Parliament Station concourse ceiling, which links the living and kitchen areas. This ceiling not only reflects light but also expands the perception of space in these newly opened-up areas. The original three-bedroom apartment, already spacious, now feels even more expansive, offering panoramic views of Melbourne, including Treasury Gardens. The kitchen's design, influenced by the owner's hospitality background, prioritizes functionality and expression. It features four distinct joinery elements, including a central bench with thick curved terrazzo that serves as a focal point for gathering. A stand-up desk for recipes and a washing-up area with views of Treasury Place enhance its utility. The main living area was expanded by removing a third bedroom, creating two sitting areas and a generous dining space, all reflected in the distinctive ceiling. The bathrooms are designed as immersive, curving pods clad in penny-round mosaics, evoking a futuristic 1970s aesthetic. The project by March Studio is significant for its ability to both respect the modernist legacy of the building and reimagine contemporary domestic interiors. It avoids current design trends, instead speculating on the potential of space by incorporating the building's history and broader context into the interior design. The integration of these historical and contextual elements ensures that the new interventions are not clearly separate from the past, offering a sophisticated and timeless result. The article also lists specific products and materials used in the renovation, such as Porter’s Paints French Wash, Flos Zeppelin pendant lighting, Wolf M Series kitchen appliances, and furniture by Rigmarole Design and Oscar Niemeyer. Key project details, including the project team, joiner, and the Aboriginal Nation on whose land the building stands (Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin nation), are also provided. The project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to renovation, balancing historical appreciation with modern living requirements. #ResidentialArchitecture #ApartmentRenovation #ModernistBuilding #InteriorDesign #MarchStudio #MelbourneArchitecture #DesignHistory #LuxuryApartment #AdaptiveReuse

First-time homeowners Kaisha and Joey Flynn embarked on a significant renovation of their unique Bernal Heights home, a property characterized by its unusual setback and hidden nature. Initially, the couple sought to revamp only two bathrooms, a task that proved challenging in San Francisco due to architects' reluctance to undertake small-scale projects. They enlisted Ryan Leidner, an architect who had recently established his own practice. While Leidner agreed to the bathroom assignment, he was immediately struck by the property's challenging layout, which involved descending over 30 stairs to a sunken front yard and then climbing another 20-plus steps to reach the front door. During a conversation, Joey Flynn asked Leidner what changes he would make without any limitations. Leidner, who had been contemplating the property's design throughout the meeting, proposed building a bridge to address the complex entry. This suggestion transformed the project from a modest bathroom renovation into a comprehensive reimagining of the entire property. The renovation, which began before the COVID-19 pandemic, spanned two and a half years. The finished entry now features a new gate that leads to a 30-foot-long footbridge. This bridge dramatically improves accessibility and offers an ideal vantage point to view the house. The property's exterior is clad in charcoal-stained cedar planks, evoking the appearance of redwood weathered by San Francisco's fog, and the landscape, designed by Stephens Design Studio, bursts with lush greenery. The bridge leads directly to the front door, opening into an entry landing illuminated by a skylight that connects to the main living area. The original exposed-beam ceiling has been meticulously restored, and the interiors feature light white oak floors and cabinets, complemented by gallery-white walls, providing a versatile backdrop for the couple's burgeoning art and vintage furniture collection. Both Kaisha and Joey Flynn are product designers themselves, working at Open AI and Instagram, respectively, and share a keen eye for detail. Leidner frequently collaborates with creative clients who are similarly committed to intricate design. The home showcases a blend of modern architecture and vintage pieces, carefully curated by Joey. Notable items include a 1970s patchwork leather sofa by Swiss brand de Sede and vintage Italian dining chairs. An innovative design feature is a cross-beam converted into a ceiling-spanning planter box, adding a touch of nature and a unique aesthetic. The home's design was also influenced by the couple's travels, particularly a record-listening lounge on the lower level, inspired by similar concepts in Japan. This room features floor-to-ceiling white oak, a dedicated turntable station, a comprehensive vinyl collection, a wet bar, and a built-in olive green daybed. The lounge can be fully opened to the front garden through disappearing pocket doors, integrating the indoor and outdoor spaces. The Flynns designed the house as a child-free couple but welcomed their daughter shortly after the renovation's completion, reaffirming their design philosophy that their choices would not have significantly changed even with children in mind, given their initial willingness to embrace the property's unique challenges. #BernalHeights #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #SanFranciscoHomes #LandscapeDesign #VintageFurniture #CreativeClients

Casey Neistat, a YouTube vlogger known for his dynamic, fast-paced content, and Candice Pool, founder of the fine jewelry companies Billy! and Finn, have created an urban sanctuary in their high-rise Battery Park City apartment. Eschewing the typical chaotic loft living often associated with creative New Yorkers, the couple sought to establish a tranquil, homey environment that contrasts sharply with Neistat's bustling SoHo office. Their goal was to find a suburban-like peace within the city's confines, a desire that became increasingly important as they grew their family. Working with New York City-based designer Daun Curry, who had previously designed showrooms for Pool’s jewelry brands, Neistat and Pool transformed their three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath apartment into a serene retreat. The couple explicitly wanted to avoid a stark, impersonal 'white box' aesthetic, which Pool, a former West Village resident, found unappealing. Curry addressed this by introducing dynamic layers and a sense of history into the modern condo space. One notable design choice was the application of matte-black wainscoting and painting everything below the window sills in the same dark shade. This technique visually grounds the space, drawing attention to the apartment's expansive views of the Hudson River while creating an illusion of depth and lowering the perceived floor level. The interior design adopted a 'Bohemian Aristocrat' theme, characterized by a 'laid-back luxe' aesthetic. The living room, for instance, features a large, comfortable Belgian linen sofa from Restoration Hardware, adorned with embroidered textiles from ABC Carpet & Home and a faux-fur throw from Barneys New York. This blend of comfort and subtle luxury is complemented by a diverse art collection, including a leopard photo by Caroline Gibello—a nod to Pool's South African heritage—a custom painting by Shantell Martin incorporating their initials, and a pastoral painting discovered during a stay at the Ocean House Hotel in Rhode Island. A gold skateboard sculpture, a Father's Day gift from Pool to Neistat, serves as a unique personal touch. The apartment's layout, which Neistat and Pool describe as perfect, provides distinct areas within an open floor plan, offering both spaciousness and defined living zones. Practical amenities, such as on-site laundry, further contribute to the suburban feel desired by the couple as parents of a toddler with another child on the way. Clutter avoidance was a key principle in their design philosophy, with Pool emphasizing that expanding square footage does not equate to expanding hoarding habits. Built-ins in the bedroom and the removal of excessive cabinetry from previous owners underscore their commitment to a calm, neat living space. Ultimately, the apartment has achieved its purpose: providing a genuine sense of home and belonging in New York City, a sentiment Neistat describes as a profound shift from merely surviving to truly living in the city. #CelebrityHomes #ApartmentDesign #InteriorDesign #NewYorkCity #ZenLifestyle #HomeDecor #UrbanRefuge #DesignerCollaboration #BohemianAristocrat

Architect Maxim Kashin has designed a 753-square-foot apartment on the 16th floor of a new residential building in Moscow, conceptualized as a "white 3D canvas with metallic installations." The design pays homage to Russian Suprematism, a 20th-century art movement founded by Kazimir Malevich. Kashin, who founded his studio in 2013 after studying at the Moscow Architectural Institute, was inspired by the movement's principles of geometry and color, and its transition from flat surfaces to volume and architecture. He aimed to use the interior itself as a medium to express these concepts. The apartment features a super-white aesthetic and is divided into three primary rooms: a multifunctional main space combining lounge, dining, and kitchen areas; a separate bedroom with a sleeping zone that can be enclosed by sliding panels; and an office and bathroom. Kashin meticulously oriented the walls towards windows to optimize natural light, guiding the flow from the entry to the living area. A central design element is the installation of sculptural steel pieces anchored to the floor and suspended from the ceiling. A treelike steel object near the entry functions as a clothing rack. The main space is dominated by a central steel feature that serves as both an island and a dining table, delineating the kitchen and dining zones. Above this, a third steel piece, weighing over 550 pounds, hangs from exposed concrete, serving purely aesthetic purposes without integral lighting. Kashin utilized 3D modeling to determine the dimensions and shapes of these metal planes, which were cut from sheets and welded in place. The steel was left unfinished, allowing it to oxidize to a velvety rust. The interior's sparse furnishings allow the architectural elements to take prominence. Kashin custom-designed a built-in banquette in the lounge, upholstered in creamy faux suede and set on a split-level podium made of MDF panels. Custom kitchen cabinetry is also crafted from varnished MDF boards. Windows, which overlook the building's courtyard and the Moskva River, are covered with semitransparent matting. The kitchen floor is paved with marble, while the living room features polyurethane-coated foam rubber, which Kashin describes as comfortable. The bathroom stands out as an exception to the minimalist scheme, featuring a vibrant color palette of deep blue, violet, and fuchsia, achieved with a single paint color that shifts with light temperature. This use of color reflects a Suprematist idea about the superiority of color over shape. The client granted Kashin significant creative freedom, enabling him to realize his preference for minimalist white interiors. #MoscowApartment #MaximKashinArchitects #RussianSuprematism #MinimalistInteriorDesign #SculpturalSteel #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #WhiteInteriors

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

Mimi Shin, a UCLA-trained architect and interior designer, brings a unique perspective to her work, deeply influenced by her decade-long career as a fashion editor at prestigious magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue. Shin’s design philosophy emphasizes a foundational approach to space, prioritizing timeless, handcrafted materials, and graceful proportions, similar to how a fashion editor would focus on the silhouette of an outfit. She integrates carefully curated accessories to elevate the overall design, treating them as analogous to the finishing touches in fashion. This methodology is evident in her personal Venice bungalow remodel, which serves as a prime example of her ability to blend new construction with existing character. Shin's journey into interior design was sparked by a realization that her passion lay in the broader aspects of design rather than solely clothing. After a transformative dream, she pursued architecture at UCLA, attracted by its innovative 3D modeling program. Her architectural education provided her with a comprehensive understanding of construction, zoning laws, building codes, and materials, which she considers crucial for establishing credibility in a male-dominated field. She notes the importance for women in the industry to be highly qualified and knowledgeable, enabling them to confidently engage with other architects. In her professional practice, Shin has cultivated a loyal client base among Los Angeles's creative and executive communities, including Hollywood writers, producers, and Snapchat executives. Her clients value her design expertise and her distinctive fashion background. Her own home, a Spanish colonial beach shack in Venice, showcases her design principles. Facing the need for more space, Shin opted for a thoughtful expansion rather than a complete demolition, adding a second story to the main house and constructing a discrete two-story back house. This expansion respects the original character of the bungalow while addressing modern needs, including additional bathrooms and a media room. The outdoor space of her Venice home further exemplifies her innovative approach, featuring a rectangular pool, an outdoor dining area, and a wooden sauna nestled within an ORCA-designed urban garden. The design cleverly integrates these elements without making the lot feel crowded, maintaining a sense of openness and surprise for visitors. Shin consciously preserved the original footprint and scale of her bungalow, contrasting with the “raze and rebuild” philosophy sometimes taught in architecture school. She implemented design choices such as limewashed plaster walls to create a lived-in, authentic feel, preferring this over the sterile appearance of new drywall. Shin's fashion background is particularly evident in her approach to accessories and finishes. She integrates vintage furniture pieces, like a Charlotte Perriand chaise lounge, which add character and a sense of history, much like a stylist would use a worn item to add authenticity to an outfit. Her bathrooms feature an artful mix of tiles by Nathalie du Pasquier for Mutina, custom stained-glass windows, and fixtures chosen for their aesthetic appeal, often resembling jewelry. She actively seeks wall sconces that evoke earrings, highlighting her continuous thought process regarding lighting as a form of adornment. Her work demonstrates a cohesive integration of fashion-forward detailing with solid architectural principles, resulting in effortlessly beautiful and deeply personalized spaces. #MimiShin #InteriorDesign #FashionEditor #HomeTours #VeniceBungalow #ArchitecturalDesign #Remodeling #DesignPhilosophy #CreativeSpaces

The article details the redesign of a 1920s Mediterranean Revival home in Bronxville, focusing specifically on the living room. The family of four, upon purchasing the home, sought to restore its original architectural details that had been removed by previous owners, while also creating a family-friendly environment. Designer Alexandra Denburg of M&P Design Group, in collaboration with contractor Michael Guttilla, spearheaded this transformation, aiming to reintroduce Mediterranean elements and revitalize the space. Denburg's design approach for the living room emphasizes a careful selection of furniture shapes and materials to create a balanced and cohesive aesthetic. She strategically paired a square sofa with a curved one, demonstrating a mindful consideration of how different forms interact within a space. The choice of fabrics and materials was guided by both functionality and visual appeal. For instance, a large, fully upholstered sofa was complemented by a smaller, leg-exposed upholstered sofa, and two armchairs with decorative metal frames were placed on the opposite side of a wooden coffee table. This combination ensures visual interest and variety. Central to Denburg's material palette for the living room were woods, stones, metals, clays, and various fabrics. She explains her design philosophy by highlighting the importance of juxtaposing different textures and finishes—such as polished against raw stones, soft velvets with chunky knits, and woods with diverse surface textures. Mixed metals were also incorporated to add depth. This layering of textures and materials is crucial, especially within a monochromatic scheme, as it prevents the space from appearing flat and instead introduces tactile interest. Architectural details were also a significant focus of the redesign. To reinstate some of the home's original character, Denburg installed ceiling beams. These beams serve a dual purpose: they visually heighten the room by extending sightlines and provide a contrasting element to the dark wood flooring, enhancing a neutral color palette. The fireplace was another area of significant renovation. Denburg removed the wall jut behind it, creating a flush surface for the new fireplace, and added an angled surround to further contribute to the room's perceived height. Moravian star lights were installed, hanging alongside strong linear beams, exemplifying Denburg's eclectic approach to furnishing styles. She states that she always incorporates a mix of styles, regardless of the overarching aesthetic, to achieve a dynamic and engaging design. The overall transformation of the Bronxville living room by Alexandra Denburg successfully marries the restoration of historical architectural details with modern, family-friendly design principles, utilizing a rich interplay of shapes, textures, and materials to create an elegant and inviting space. #BronxvilleLivingRoom #HomeRedesign #InteriorDesign #AlexandraDenburg #MediterraneanRevival #FamilyFriendlyDesign #TextureAndMaterial #ArchitecturalRestoration

The article delves into the interior design of a sprawling apartment located in Herzog & de Meuron’s 56 Leonard Street, colloquially known as the "Jenga tower," in TriBeCa, New York City. Renowned interior designer Richard Mishaan undertook the challenging task of transforming the austere, contemporary space into a family-friendly home that balances sophistication with practical comfort, all while preserving the apartment's panoramic views. From the outset, Mishaan aimed to create a sense of adventure. The entry hall features a vibrant mural by street artist Rostarr, whimsical bunny sconces by Hubert Le Gall, and marble-inset parquet flooring. The master bedroom door is upholstered in purple velvet, leading to a space designed to evoke a sense of discovery. The open-plan living room, characterized by warm reds and browns, jewel tones, and a golden ceiling, is anchored by oversized furniture from Liaigre and Romeo Sozzi to complement the 16-foot ceilings and vast scale. An alabaster sculpture by Manolo Valdés adds an artistic touch. Mishaan ensured the space, while elegant, could also accommodate children, albeit with a humorous warning about touching the art. The apartment's layout, inspired by a Gothic cathedral, allows public spaces like the dining room, entertainment room, and kitchen to radiate seamlessly from the central living area. The client's appreciation for glittering gemstones is reflected throughout the design. The entertainment room, for instance, features a custom-colored malachite rug and a geode-inspired mural by Black Crow Studios, creating a "feeling of stone" without making the space feel cold. The dining room boasts a striking light fixture by artist Johanna Grawunder, comprising two acrylic wings and an LED that projects an intense straight line onto the cerused-oak dining table. The kitchen area is designed with a towering wall of azure cabinetry and custom island, range, and hood by Herzog & de Meuron, providing a vivid, sapphire-like ambiance. The master bedroom continues this theme with a royal-blue Maharam mohair-upholstered California king bed and Theodore Alexander sofa, designed to make occupants feel immersed in the sky. The master bath features a custom tub under a David Weeks chandelier, with walls and floors clad in book-matched Cassiopea marble from ABC Stone. Mishaan acknowledges the project's complexity, likening it to building his own Jenga tower. The design successfully integrates an appreciation for contemporary art and gemstones with the practical needs of a young family, creating a dynamic and visually engaging home that lives up to the architectural distinctiveness of the building it inhabits. #InteriorDesign #LuxuryApartment #Tribeca #HerzogDeMeuron #RichardMishaan #JengaTower #ContemporaryArt #ModernArchitecture #ManhattanLiving

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

In Siberia, interior designer Elena Rybalkina has completed the "Art House" project, a 1,615-square-foot residence designed to highlight the creative spirit of a family of artists. The home integrates an explosion of colors, textures, forms, and mixed-media art, challenging conventional perceptions of Siberian design. A key feature of the residence is its three substantial studio galleries, which are interconnected and serve multiple functions, including showcasing the owners' paintings and photographs, hosting parties, acting as a meeting space, and providing a quiet reading nook. Rybalkina emphasized mobility and variability in all components of the design, selecting interior items that are both comfortable for relaxation and resemble art objects themselves. The design strategy includes distinctive flooring choices. In the more traditional areas like the bedroom, kitchen, and living room, terrazzo flooring features a geometric design conceived by Rybalkina. The kitchen, despite its small size, makes a strong statement with matte black facades contrasting against a walnut backsplash. The living room takes a more avant-garde approach with glossy self-leveling floors that have had paint directly poured onto them, explicitly emphasizing the creative purpose of the space. This free-spirited painting motif extends into the ceramics studio, where paint was intentionally splattered onto the walls to create natural, whimsical color spots. The color palette is dominated by graphite and ultramarine, which are complemented by raw textures such as untouched concrete blocks and fragments of brickwork. These textural elements provide a rich background, allowing the furniture to stand out prominently. Rybalkina articulated that the diverse range of interiors is intended to foster liberation and creative activity, ultimately cultivating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a distinct "own world" for the residents. The project also focused on practical enhancements, with the initial step involving the expansion of windows to maximize natural light and airflow throughout the home. Each area of the house is thoughtfully designed to serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. For instance, the staircases are not merely transitional elements but are also designed to offer comfortable seating. The bedroom, while maintaining a more subdued anthracite tone, is enlivened by exaggerated forms, adding an artistic touch even to personal spaces. A neon slogan installed in the house encapsulates Rybalkina's design philosophy, serving as a motivation and instruction for the home's operation: "impressions of the environment, creativity without templates and restrictions, personal perception of reality, and personalization—all this is embedded in the interior." This slogan underscores the bespoke and artist-centric approach taken in the Art House, making it a unique and inspiring living environment tailored to its creative inhabitants. #SiberianDesign #ArtHouse #InteriorDesign #ElenaRybalkina #CreativeResidence #ArtStudios #TexturalInteriors #GeometricDesign #ModernLiving

Canadian studio Post Architecture has undertaken a significant renovation of a century-old brick house in Toronto, located across from a popular park in the Riverdale community. The project, named Riverdale Dormer House, involved a collaboration with engineers, designers, and builders to modernize the urban residence and enhance its connection to exterior views, while maintaining sensitivity to the surrounding streetscape. The architects aimed to integrate a modern aesthetic within the existing masonry structure, acknowledging the challenges of such an intervention. A key exterior modification was the replacement of the original roof and attic with a new third-floor addition. This addition is clad in standing-seam metal and features a sloped facade facing the street and a flat roof at the rear, designed to align with the heights of neighboring buildings. Traditional gabled dormers were removed and replaced with large, rectilinear window boxes. These new dormers are characterized by deep overhangs on all sides, strategically designed to modulate both internal and external views. Inside, the renovation focused on adapting the dwelling to accommodate a modern lifestyle. A new kitchen extension was added, which includes a custom wine cellar. Furthermore, a new garage was constructed, incorporating a hydraulic lift that can store up to three cars or be used to free up floor area, effectively extending the rear yard. The modernization efforts also extended to the integration of a radiant floor heating system throughout the house and the installation of commercial-style return air vents, enhancing comfort and efficiency. Lighting design was a crucial aspect of the interior update, with LED lights installed to be as discreet as possible. These lights were specifically positioned to complement and highlight the various art walls present throughout the house, contributing to the overall contemporary decor. The ground floor of the residence was reconfigured to feature an open-plan layout, encompassing a living zone, dining room, and kitchen, which seamlessly connects to a wooden deck in the backyard, promoting indoor-outdoor living. The basement level was designated for utilitarian and recreational spaces, housing an exercise area, a laundry room, and additional storage. A central staircase, crafted from a combination of wood, glass, and metal, serves as a prominent design feature and facilitates circulation within the home. This staircase leads to the second floor, which contains two bedrooms and a spacious den, providing flexible living arrangements. The master suite is privately situated on the third level, offering expansive views and a serene retreat. Throughout the interior, a diverse palette of materials was utilized to create a contemporary aesthetic, including elegant marble counters and warm wooden flooring. This project aligns with Post Architecture's portfolio of work, which also includes other notable residential renovations such as the Junction Shadow House in Toronto, known for its slender urban design and a distinctive monochrome staircase with white perforated metal guards. The photography for the Riverdale Dormer House project was provided by Arnaud Marthouret at Revelateur Studio. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #TorontoRealEstate #PostArchitecture #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #UrbanLiving #ContemporaryUpdate #HistoricHome

This blog post showcases a 4,100-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath residence in Naples, Florida, designed by Eileen Marcuvitz of Plum Interiors and her husband, Andrew. The home, built by Big Island Builders and designed by Village Architects of Key Biscayne, Inc., stands out for its minimalist Bauhaus-style architecture, a departure from the repetitive designs often found in the area. The design emphasizes straight lines and flat surfaces, requiring significant skill and precision in its execution. The property's unique features begin with its exterior, a concrete structure featuring a three-step walkway wrapped in porcelain tile, appearing to float over a lit, filtered zero-edge pond. A slatted overhang extends from the roof, contributing to its modern and minimalist aesthetic. The home's design was inspired by a similar structure by Village Architects in South Beach, leading the couple to commission this new build despite initially not planning to do so. Upon entering the home through a large glass and bronze pivot door, visitors arrive directly into the living room. This space is characterized by a back-lit drop ceiling, massive walls of windows, and sliding doors that offer extensive views of the outdoor living area and pool, ensuring abundant natural light. The living room is furnished with Christian Liaigre sofas atop a Tibetan silk carpet from Holly Hunt, with a Robert Natkin oil painting serving as a focal point. Throughout the residence, 24- by 48-inch rectified porcelain tiles with a striated pattern are prominently featured, extending into the outdoor living spaces, pool deck, and even up the side of the building, providing texture to the home's silhouette and a sense of continuity. The kitchen exemplifies uniformity and architectural minimalism with its dark Poliform solid wood cabinetry, where hand-aligned grain patterns extend to the 12-foot ceilings, effectively concealing appliances. The waterfall-edge island and all kitchen surfaces, including those in the hidden pantry and adjoining laundry room, are crafted from Cristallo quartzite. A low linear window behind the double-faucet sink allows for natural light, complemented by white Poliform upper cabinetry that adds linear visual impact and storage. Symmetry is a guiding principle throughout the home, particularly evident in the dining area. Here, a large, custom alabaster and brass lighting fixture by Gabriel Scott is precisely mounted to an inverted drop ceiling, which also conceals curtain rails. A Holly Hunt dining table and chairs complete the space, alongside flush baseboards with reglet trim for a clean finish. The family room showcases the couple's appreciation for high design, featuring a Poliform Mad Joker armchair upholstered in Hermès leather and Poliform fabric, set on a Christian Astuguevieille rug. Wallpapers introduce texture and playfulness in various rooms, such as a peach-colored graphic finish in the powder room and grasscloth gray-blue coverings in the second-floor entertainment room. Upstairs bedrooms maintain a sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance, with the primary suite boasting a wall of glass overlooking the pool, drop-down soffits concealing integrated curtains, and oversized his-and-hers walk-in closets. The primary bathroom continues the use of rectified porcelain tile, complemented by wall-mounted faucets and a tub filler. A third-floor, roof-level sun deck, accessible via elevator, provides views of nearby Cambier Park. The property also features retaining walls around its perimeter to level the site, and the pool's design allows it to spill over on two sides. The porcelain tile from the interior extends below the waterline, creating a seamless flow and ensuring the home makes an impression from every perspective. The project was executed by Village Architects of Key Biscayne (architect), Big Island Builders (builder), and Plum Interiors (interior design), with photography by Diana Todorova Photography. The home garnered three 2022 Sand Dollar Awards, including best kitchen and pool, highlighting its successful integration of innovative design and meticulous craftsmanship. #BauhausArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #NaplesHome #ModernHome #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalInnovation #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

Amalia Savu's residential interior design project, titled 'Within a Frame House,' is located in Vâlcea, Romania, and presents a sophisticated blend of contemporary minimalism and natural elements. The design prioritizes harmony with nature, making the surrounding landscape and an indoor tree central to the home's aesthetic. The project, conceived for a private client, aims to integrate the living space seamlessly with its exceptional natural setting through careful material selection, light manipulation, and proportional design. The minimalist approach, characterized by clean, contemporary lines, serves to emphasize the natural beauty visible through large window openings, which function as 'living paintings.' The interior design employs a palette of earthy tones, natural wood, and textured stone, creating a balance between visual tranquility and tactile richness. Throughout the open-plan kitchen, dining, and hallway areas, vertical wooden slats and monolithic surfaces contribute to a sense of rhythm and depth. These elements are strategically placed to define spaces while maintaining an open and fluid layout. Sculptural furniture pieces, chosen for their aesthetic appeal and functional purpose, complement the minimalist design. Integrated lighting solutions are utilized to highlight the architectural lines and enhance the overall spatial clarity, contributing to an ambiance that is both modern and inviting. A key feature of the 'Within a Frame House' is the inclusion of a tree housed within a glass cube at the core of the structure. This architectural decision reinforces the design concept of bringing nature indoors and fostering a constant connection between the inhabitants and their environment. The extensive use of large windows not only frames the external views but also allows ample natural light to flood the interiors, further blurring the lines between the inside and outside. This deliberate integration of natural light enhances the perception of space and contributes to the serene atmosphere. Amalia Savu, the architect behind the project, meticulously curated every detail to ensure that the design fulfilled both aesthetic and practical requirements. The selection of materials such as natural wood and stone was made not only for their inherent beauty but also for their ability to contribute to the desired contemporary yet warm environment. The architectural execution aligns with modern design values, focusing on understated luxury and functional elegance. The project exemplifies a design philosophy where the built environment respectfully interacts with and celebrates its natural context, offering a refined living experience tailored to the client's lifestyle. #AmaliaSavu #ResidentialDesign #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryMinimalism #NaturalMaterials #RomanianArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ModernHome #ArchitecturalLighting