Jamie Lee Curtis' extreme take on her 'dream home' is so relatable – design experts explain why

This article details the transformation of a three-story Sydney beachside home by interior designer David Flack, founder of Flack Studio. The client, a hardworking New Yorker with a blended family, sought a complete respite from his busy life, and while the original home featured a calming "white on travertine on white" coastal aesthetic, it didn't align with his personality. Flack, known for his intuitive design approach that eschews extensive questioning in favor of understanding a client's essence and lifestyle, aimed to create a home that reflected the client's witty, straight-shooting, and kind nature, while also incorporating a blend of New York, European, and Australian influences. Despite no significant structural changes beyond the addition of a bathroom, Flack Studio reimagined every aspect of the interiors. This involved introducing rich materials like walnut and American oak, polished plaster in jewel tones, terracotta tiles, and a diverse selection of marbles. The design intent was to evoke a sense of global sophistication. For instance, the modern kitchen features a hammered brass rangehood, Portuguese tiles, and rust-colored stone, creating a look that Flack describes as reminiscent of a Renaissance oil painting, or a blend of "Mexicana meets Milan" with Palladiana flooring and handmade checkerboard tiles. The dining area, which connects to the kitchen, includes a banquette as requested by the owner, complemented by an organic-shaped Christophe Delcourt dining table and Mario Bellini chairs, alongside art by Nabilah Nordin and Reko Rennie. The living room exudes a brownstone-salon vibe, characterized by timber library walls, timeless furniture, and a curated collection of art. Flack emphasizes that this space, despite facing the ocean, deliberately avoids a typical coastal aesthetic, aiming instead for an antithesis of beachside Sydney property design. The lower-ground level features a cellar and tasting room that channels a 1970s nightclub aesthetic, complete with Kiron Robinson neon wall art and pieces by Indigenous Australian artist Tracey Moffatt. Attention to intricate details is a hallmark of Flack Studio's work, such as a thin red line subtly integrated into the library joinery. This level of bespoke craftsmanship is fostered by clients who appreciate such nuances. The home also boasts a carefully chosen art collection, including works by prominent artists like Daniel Boyd, Dale Frank, Bill Henson, and Tracey Moffatt, alongside pieces from emerging artists. The bathrooms incorporate American oak, Opus marble, and vintage Murano glass lights, creating dramatic and tactile spaces. The client's satisfaction is evident in his ongoing communication with Flack, sharing his continued love for the home and photos of family gatherings, highlighting the success of the personalized and deeply considered design. #InteriorDesign #FlackStudio #SydneyHome #ModernCoastal #LuxuryInteriors #CustomDesign #ArtCollection #Materiality

The article details the home renovation journey of Temi Johnson, a participant in BBC1's Interior Design Masters, who transformed her two-bedroom Victorian end-of-terrace house in Hertfordshire into a vibrant and personal space, ultimately leading her to pursue a full-time career in interior design. Temi and her husband initially fell in love with the house's location, which offered good links to London while feeling like it was in the countryside. They had previously lived on a narrowboat to save for a mortgage, and ironically, their new home was right next to a boatyard they frequented for repairs. Upon purchasing the house, Temi quickly realized it needed significant work beyond a cosmetic makeover, including extensive modernization and redecoration, especially the bathroom which had exposed old soil pipes. Despite these challenges, the house retained its original parquet flooring and had a small kitchen extension, providing a good foundation. The renovation began with ripping out the downstairs kitchen and old shower room, transforming it into a larger kitchen, laundry room, and downstairs toilet. This phase, initially planned for six weeks, stretched to nearly three months due to unexpected building issues, forcing them to wash dishes in the bathtub. Temi's vision for the kitchen was a decent-sized space for entertaining, reflecting her love for food. She describes the kitchen as the heart of the house, where they spend most of their time with friends and family. The design incorporated cabinetry with hidden storage and open shelving, cubbyholes for plates, and a built-in wine rack. For the worktops, she opted for durable quartz over more expensive and delicate marble, considering they have a three-year-old. The kitchen also features a country-style Butler sink and brass taps and handles, with the island housing the oven and hob. The living room was designed to feel larger and more inviting, using a bright orange eco-friendly lime-wash paint from Francesca’s Paints, as Temi expresses a dislike for wallpaper. The room is furnished with a mix of vintage finds, including an Ercol sofa and a brass coffee table from eBay, complemented by cherished artworks. Temi highlights her love for antiques and vintage items, emphasizing their character and charm, and describes her style as a blend of traditional and modern vintage with a strong emphasis on color. She mentions painting the fireplace black, a detail inspired by a previous boat renovation, and notes the polarizing reactions to her orange living room. Moving to the private spaces, the main bedroom features a birch bed from Ikea and a color scheme with Dulux’s Bright Skies on the walls and a Farrow & Ball Arsenic-matched paint for the door. A fitted wardrobe with curved door inserts and large circular brass handles, sourced from Pushka Home, was custom-built to fit an alcove. Her son's bedroom is designed for play and storage, featuring a raised Ikea bed to accommodate toys and a teepee that serves as a snug area. The bathroom, a surprising challenge during the renovation due to unseen damage and previous modifications for disability, was updated with a second-hand bath and sink from eBay, with all plumbing replaced. Temi concludes by advising against rushing home decoration, encouraging homeowners to take their time to find items they truly love, emphasizing that a home will come together authentically with patience. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #VictorianHouse #Hertfordshire #ColorfulDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #BedroomDecor #DIYHome

This article details the collaboration between Benny Robles Jr. of Bartow Ford and Debra Ackerbloom Interiors, Inc. for the design of Robles' new home. The two-story residence, completed in 2024, is situated on three acres in Stone Lake Ranch, Thonotosassa, and encompasses seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, two double-car garages, and a climate-controlled gym. The design concept focuses on blending modern architecture with luxurious furnishings, fixtures, and materials to create a dramatic and immersive living experience. The interior design, orchestrated by principal designer Debra Ackerbloom and senior designer Jacinea Vela, features dynamic designs using modern building materials in natural tones and textures. High-performance textiles and leathers were selected to enhance the furnishings throughout the home. The early involvement of the interior design team in the architectural planning process was crucial, allowing for the seamless integration of Robles' aesthetic preferences and his passion for entertaining. Key design elements and features are highlighted throughout the residence. The exterior presents a combination of smooth pure white stucco, textural natural grey concrete, and dark walnut horizontal weatherproof Longboard. Upon entry, a custom pivot door leads into a foyer with a grand staircase and a soaring great room. Large-format Calacatta Gold porcelain tile covers the floors in this area. The great room's centerpiece is a 15-foot-by-15-foot custom sectional made of performance fabric, complemented by ebony leather swivel chairs and aged brass and ebony tables. The home also includes specialized entertainment spaces. The game room features a coffered ceiling, dark walnut hardwood planks, custom gaming tables, a burnished porcelain fireplace, and a tropical tank that separates it from a golf simulator. A hidden door leads to a Secret Lounge, which is accessed via a circular staircase. This lounge boasts a custom bar wrapped in vein-cut vanilla onyx, paired with black leather swivel bar stools accented with aged brass. Another game room located downstairs includes a sleek waterfall-edge bar made of Silver Wave marble, accented with backlit Verite glass, and complemented by tufted black leather barstools. The master ensuite is designed for comfort and luxury, featuring fireside swivel chairs, an upholstered platform bed, and seeded crystal pendants. The master bath is equipped with a double floating vanity against a full wall of custom Italian glass tiles, a Crema Delicato marble countertop, and Calacatta Gold porcelain floors and shower tiles. Other notable areas include an upstairs landing with a custom feature wall and lounge seating, and a downstairs sunroom. The sunroom incorporates Deco tropical wall tile, matte black and white floors, blush velvet seating, and a Deco aged brass pendant. The comprehensive design aims to create a sophisticated and cohesive living environment tailored to modern luxury and entertainment.

While a limitless budget might suggest sophisticated interior design, many ultra-rich individuals often opt for ostentatious and, at times, downright tacky home decor, according to interior designers. This phenomenon is explored through examples of high-profile figures whose homes have been critiqued for their lack of taste despite immense wealth. Interior designer Nichole Smith notes that the super-wealthy either prioritize practicality or, conversely, become examples of the adage that money cannot buy good taste. Jeffrey Epstein's homes, including his Manhattan townhouse and private island, revealed interiors described as garish. His New York bedroom featured cream wallpaper with blue flowers, a sapphire chandelier, and mahogany furniture, with an ivory carpet painted with blue grids. Another bedroom had pink walls, a green velvet headboard, and stripy curtains. Lisa Marconi, an interior designer and founder of Design Led, observed that while everything in these rooms was undoubtedly expensive, the overall aesthetic lacked beauty. She suggested that the super-rich often compile individually tasteful items in a way that ultimately ruins the space. The black marble bathroom with a light-up mirror and speakers, contrasting with light wooden door frames, was cited as another example of mismatched elements. Interior designer Benji Lewis characterized Epstein's rooms as an “overload of vulgar and bad taste,” noting the cavernous blue and cream bedroom had insufficient furniture, and the art was ghastly and sinister, reflecting the owner. The living room's diamond candlelight chandelier, patterned rug, taxidermy tiger, and mahogany walls were seen as elements contributing to the tackiness, demonstrating a tendency to overdo decorations. Elon Musk, despite his vast net worth, lives in a modest, minimalist two-bedroom house in Boca Chica, Texas. Walter Isaacson, his biographer, described it as spartan. The home features a dark wooden table and matching floors in a white kitchen, along with a spaceship sculpture. Lisa Marconi commented that this plainness is fitting for Musk, suggesting it conveys a focus on important matters over home decor. She likened it to a young man's first starter home, devoid of personality, and found it an interesting choice for the world's richest man. Lauren Sanchez's interior design also drew criticism. Her luxurious writing nook, with a white bevelled desk, bright pink surface, blue walls, and a sky-effect ceiling, was mocked for resembling a "Barbie" house with "elementary school vibes." Benji Lewis described the space as "cold and unfriendly," criticizing the lip-motif curtains as cheap and the overall cobalt blue and neon pink accents as stark. He suggested a rug might improve the space, but only as a starting point given the poor consideration. Rishi Sunak's London townhouse showcased a monochromatic scheme in a pre-budget photo, with a light blue sofa against darker royal blue cabinets and blue pillows. Lisa Marconi pointed out that while monochromatic schemes can be effective, Sunak's use of clashing shades created a jarring effect, contrary to the desired cozy outcome. Mark Zuckerberg commissioned a 7ft statue of his wife, Priscilla Chan, for their garden, resembling a Greek goddess. Lisa Marconi found the oxidized green copper and steel sculpture hideous and incongruous with the garden, describing it as randomly placed without regard for its surroundings. She noted it suggested an over-inflated sense of self. Donald Trump's Trump Tower apartment exemplified a "more is more" approach, characterized by angelic painted ceilings, numerous diamond chandeliers, lavish candlesticks, and glass tables. Lisa Marconi stated that Trump's decor was a display of wealth, like a peacock fanning its tail, and Nichole Smith called it a definition of "you can't buy good taste" with its "gaudy gold" everywhere. Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch featured a cinema room with rows of red velvet chairs and blue walls, which Nichole Smith compared to a "school auditorium" due to its wooden stage and silver tinsel curtain. Lisa Marconi added that it felt more like a primary school stage than a cinema, noting its unnecessarily huge size. Vijay Mallya's mansion, a two-story replica of the White House perched atop a skyscraper in Bangalore, was described as an "absolutely hilarious show of wealth" by Lisa Marconi. She interpreted it as a desperate attempt to broadcast wealth, likening it to a giant banner proclaiming richness. Nichole Smith echoed this, calling it a perfect example of how not to be subtle with wealth display. #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #TackyDecor #UltraRichLifestyle #CelebrityHomes #ArchitecturalExcess #DesignCritique #WealthDisplay #HomeDecor

This article offers an exclusive look inside the various ultra-modern mansions owned by Kris Jenner, a prominent figure from 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians,' detailing the interior design and key features of these luxurious properties. In 2021, Kris Jenner acquired a $20 million mansion situated adjacent to her daughter Khloe Kardashian’s future residence. Beyond this significant purchase, she possesses three additional condominiums in Calabasas and a £9 million estate in La Quinta, California. The article also references her former ownership of the iconic Kardashian family home, which her son Rob Kardashian subsequently occupied and redecorated for Christmas, as evidenced by photos he shared featuring his daughter, Dream. The tour begins with Kris Jenner's bedroom, revealed during a visit from designer Diane Von Furstenberg. Consistent with the overall aesthetic of her homes, the bedroom features a minimalist design with a muted cream and white color palette, a low-rise bed, and cashmere covers, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere. The living room, showcased during a Christmas photoshoot with her grandson Mason, is characterized by a sophisticated cream and black color scheme. Furnishings include cream and white sofas and armchairs, a black grand piano, and an open log fireplace with a herringbone wood backdrop, suggesting an elegant and cozy space for family gatherings. Another view of the living room from the hallway highlights its open-plan layout on the ground floor, featuring a large cream rug over wooden flooring. Kris Jenner's hallway is distinguished by double-height ceilings, enhancing its grandeur. It is furnished with a stainless steel console table and a wooden seat, complemented by wooden stairs and a matching bannister. A unique and noteworthy feature of one of her mansions is an entire room dedicated to crockery. This 'dish room' is described as a museum-worthy space, meticulously arranged with fine China pieces, underscoring her penchant for organized luxury and collecting. Her office, revealed in a selfie, is equipped with high-gloss black cupboards accented with silver frames and handles. The space is personalized with various awards and family photographs, blending professional functionality with personal touches. The kitchen is presented through two distinct styles from different properties. One kitchen, seen in an episode of 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians,' features cream cupboards, grey marble worktops, and a black dining table. Another kitchen, from a different home, showcases black cupboards and walls, with vibrant pink kitchenware providing a pop of color, demonstrating a diverse range of design preferences across her residences. These insights provide a comprehensive overview of Kris Jenner's opulent and meticulously designed homes, reflecting her modern aesthetic and luxurious lifestyle. #KrisJenner #CelebrityHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ModernDesign #InteriorDesign #KardashianFamily #HomeDecor #MegaMansions #CoreyGamble

Metricon has unveiled its latest collection of display homes at SkyRidge, showcasing a fusion of thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship tailored for the contemporary home upgrader. These four residences are engineered to embody light-filled, intelligent, and insightful designs, seamlessly blending local Australian aesthetics with enduring functionality. Each home at SkyRidge is characterized by a cohesive layout that balances sophistication with practicality, ensuring that every space enhances the rhythm of daily life. The design philosophy centers on creating bright, fresh, and warm atmospheres, offering open social areas for gatherings, and incorporating intuitive zoning to provide both privacy and connection. This approach defines modern living at its peak. Adrian Popple, Metricon’s Design Director, emphasizes that customers seek more than just a house; they desire a home that feels welcoming and meticulously considered. This philosophy is evident across the SkyRidge display homes, where every space serves a purpose, the kitchen acts as the central hub, and natural light freely flows through open-plan living areas, culminating in a modern yet timeless expression. The collection includes the Waterford 47, which makes a bold statement in modern contemporary design with its Pacific façade, featuring striking cantilevers and geometric forms. This home offers a well-appointed guest suite, an entertainer’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, and expansive living spaces with dramatic ceiling voids. Upstairs, it provides three bedrooms with ensuites and a secluded master suite. Its interiors are marked by sleek dark cabinetry, metallic accents, and statement tiles. The Vantage 48, with its Las Palmas façade, draws inspiration from Palm Springs, showcasing mid-century modern charm through clean lines and expressive details. It boasts grand voids and an arched window that illuminate the open-plan living and dining areas, extending seamlessly to an outdoor entertaining space. The upper level includes a master retreat and additional bedrooms. The interior design of the Vantage 48 features curved forms, pastel accents, and a sophisticated wine storage room. The Clara 27, presenting the Escape façade, blends traditional elements with modern sensibilities. It features a private bedroom wing, a media room, and open-plan living areas. The kitchen, equipped with a walk-in pantry and raked ceilings, is positioned as the heart of the home. Scandi Luxe interiors, incorporating veined tiles, soft hues, and brass finishes, contribute to its warm and understated luxury. Completing the collection is the Marion 40, featuring the classic Princeton façade, which combines refined aesthetics with functional design. A grand entry leads to a light-filled stair foyer and a study. The master suite upstairs includes two walk-in robes, a private balcony, and an indulgent ensuite. This home offers multi-zoned living to ensure both privacy and connection, with coastal-inspired interiors in crisp whites and soothing greys creating a serene atmosphere. Popple highlights the kitchen in the Marion 40 as a highly functional and welcoming space, enhanced by carefully selected lighting. These homes collectively underscore Metricon’s dedication to quality and innovation, providing prospective homebuyers with a vision of an elevated lifestyle. Located at Parkway Circuit, Worongary 4213, these display homes are open daily for exploration. #HomeDesign #ModernLiving #MetriconDisplayHomes #SkyRidge #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #FamilyHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #HomeUpgraders

Kathryn M. Ireland, a Los Angeles-based interior designer, is releasing a new book titled "A Life In Design" on October 24. This book commemorates her three decades in the industry, highlighting her distinct and fearless approach to interior design. Ireland's philosophy emphasizes a non-serious, playful attitude towards decorating, which has attracted a diverse clientele, including notable figures like Steve Martin and Drew Barrymore. The book will feature some of her Hollywood projects and personal residences, showcasing her signature style of blending colors, global styles, and various fabrics. Ireland's journey into interior design began unconventionally. She transformed her filmmaker husband's editing studio in Santa Monica into a decorative accessories shop, which quickly gained popularity. Her initial foray into professional interior design came when Steve Martin, impressed by an article she wrote for House & Garden about another celebrity home, commissioned her to design his cottage. For Martin's home, Ireland incorporated subtle seafoam green and cream fabrics with interesting textures to complement his vibrant modern art collection. She also designed simple yet luxurious curtains and created relaxed seating areas, fostering an environment suitable for conversation or impromptu musical sessions, reflecting Martin's interest in playing the banjo. Ireland views each project as a significant learning experience, and her work for Steve Martin taught her the importance of starting with art and antiques in her design process. Her design projects extend beyond celebrity homes to include residential transformations across various locations. For instance, she renovated cosmetics giant Victoria Jackson's ranch house in Ojai, California. This project involved extensive work, such as stripping floors and remodeling bathrooms, and introduced elements like Moroccan and Mexican tiles, Spanish light fixtures, and European furnishings. Ireland also added unexpected details, such as curtains made from vintage Mexican serapes and distinctive red floral-shaped light fixtures in the master bedroom, embodying her preference for amusing, unexpected touches over kitsch. Her expertise also extended to a full-scale renovation of a British actor's farmhouse in the Cotswolds, formerly owned by Sir Mark Palmer. In this project, she meticulously preserved the original spirit of the house while infusing her style. This included wallpapering the master bedroom with her Marrakech Natural in Teal fabric, pairing it with a French armchair upholstered in Pampas Teal by Andrew Martin, and incorporating an armoire from Lorfords in Tetbury. A kente cloth bedspread, created by an Ashanti tribe in Ghana, further exemplified her global aesthetic. Ireland's connection to Ghanaian fabrics dates back to the 1980s when she traveled there for a documentary, and these textiles have since become a primary inspiration for her own fabric collections, which are also featured in her new book. Ireland describes her rooms as resembling a "United Nations," where diverse elements from Bali, Ghana, and France coexist harmoniously. She believes that while many elements can be prominent, they must collectively create a sense of balance and unity rather than any single item dominating the space. Her long-standing engagement with textiles began at an early age, winning a sewing prize at seven for a patchwork quilt, and she continues to sew her own clothes. Ireland, who started her career in fashion, views home design as an extension of fashion, believing that decorating is a therapeutic and relaxing process for both herself and her clients. #KathrynMIreland #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignBook #CelebrityHomes #GlobalStyles #TextileDesign #CaliforniaDesign

The article explores the connection between the homes and decorating choices of the 'Real Housewives' and the frequent dramatic events depicted on the show, utilizing feng shui principles for analysis. Tisha Morris, a feng shui consultant and interior designer, provides insights into how a home's atmosphere and decor can reflect and influence its inhabitants' personalities and behaviors. Morris suggests that while 'Real Housewives' are known for their dramatic interactions, often occurring within their luxurious residences, applying feng shui could potentially mitigate these tensions. The article delves into specific examples from various 'Real Housewives' homes, starting with Kyle Richards' living room. Despite her public persona, her traditional living room layout and decor, featuring numerous family photos and an emphasis on the number four, suggest a stable, protective, and family-oriented individual who may resist change. The number four, according to Morris, symbolizes family, stability, and grounding, aligning with Richards' maternal role. In contrast, Carlton Gebbia's bedroom showcases a distinct decorating style that reflects her personality. The prevalence of the number three in her room is interpreted as indicative of a social, fiery, and fun energy. Her gothic design choices are attributed to her English roots, highlighting how cultural background can manifest in home aesthetics and further differentiate her from other housewives like Kyle Richards. Aviva Drescher's bedroom, described as a quintessential New York apartment, is praised for its elegant design, likely the work of an interior designer. However, Morris points out that the room, while beautiful, lacks a clear reflection of Aviva's personal touches, suggesting a potential disconnect between her living space and her individuality. This observation hints at how a meticulously designed space, while aesthetically pleasing, might not always capture the resident's true essence. Heather Thomson's Berkshires living room, with its mid-century modern aesthetic, is presented as a reflection of her creative and innovative spirit. Morris links the design's emphasis on form and function to Thomson's success in her shapewear line, indicating a desire to create and innovate. This example illustrates how a home's design can mirror professional aspirations and achievements. Finally, Kristen Taekman's living room is characterized by its energetic atmosphere, possibly inspired by Elvis Presley's 'Jungle Room,' given the prominent animal print theme. The abundance of toys in the room underscores Kristen's devotion to motherhood, while the 'no frills' decor suggests an authentic personality unwilling to present a facade for the cameras. This analysis highlights how a home can convey both personal passions and a commitment to authenticity. The article concludes by inviting readers to consider the accuracy of these predictions and engage in discussion about how home decor can influence and reveal personality. #FengShui #RealHousewives #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PersonalityReflection #CelebrityHomes #RealityTV #DecoratingTips

Television personality Keltie Knight embarked on a significant home renovation two years prior when she purchased a fixer-upper in Los Angeles’s historical district. This extensive project necessitated a complete gut renovation. Despite her demanding schedule as an Emmy Award winner, *Entertainment Tonight* host, and founder of the *LadyGang* podcast and TV show, Knight was enthusiastic about transforming her new residence. Her initial attraction to the home was its fundamental structure, particularly the unique circular bedroom. After enduring nearly a year of sleeping on a mattress placed directly on the floor, Knight was eager to initiate the bedroom’s redesign. A self-described design enthusiast, she dedicates time to design blogs, curates her Instagram around homemaking themes, and actively engages in decor shopping. To ensure her vision for the bedroom was effectively realized, Knight enlisted the expertise of Kylee Trunck, a designer from Havenly, whom she discovered through the platform’s mobile application. The bedroom's existing state, characterized by its blank canvas and distinctive architectural features, provided Knight and Trunck with considerable creative freedom for the redesign. Trunck observed that Knight's personal aesthetic leaned towards the eclectic. Knight presented several initial concepts for the space, ultimately selecting a design that incorporated a subtle bohemian influence. The overarching design scheme for the entire home is anchored by a black and white color palette, complemented by a thoughtfully chosen array of plants. This combination cultivates a relaxed, "California-cool" atmosphere, reminiscent of East Coast chic. The bedroom serves as a direct extension of this established aesthetic. For Knight and her husband, Chris, the design prioritized both visual appeal and practical utility. Given Chris’s stature, a large, visually striking bed was deemed essential. The space integrates various elegant, custom elements tailored to their individual requirements. For instance, side tables were specifically wired, and reading lights were installed on both sides of the bed to facilitate Knight’s late-night reading habits. A designated reading nook was incorporated to align with Knight’s preference for keeping televisions out of the bedroom. Furthermore, a fireplace, a long-cherished aspiration for Knight, was included. These personalized details not only cater to the couple’s lifestyle but also contribute to the bedroom’s cozy and distinctive ambiance. The couple, who maintain a transient and bicoastal lifestyle, found that these bespoke touches were crucial in making the house feel more like a permanent home. The bedroom's high ceilings and exposed beams naturally exuded a sense of "effortless charm." Knight decided to sand down these beams to eliminate their original red stain and opted for white walls to further emphasize the room's height. Behind the bed, wall paneling was introduced to create a contemporary interpretation of traditional shiplap. To introduce vibrancy and depth to the black and white color scheme, Trunck strategically incorporated various textures, suggesting that the addition of patterned rugs and pillows would significantly enhance the room’s liveliness. As the renovation progressed, Knight began acquiring decorative items, including Rwandan "peace baskets" from a recent trip, which she incorporated as wall art. These baskets, along with her collection of books and photographs, were considered by Knight to be integral to imbuing the space with its unique "soul." #CelebrityHomes #BedroomDesign #HomeRenovation #BohoChic #InteriorDesign #CustomDecor #HavenlyDesign #KeltieKnight #CaliforniaCool

This article offers a comprehensive tour of 50 celebrity living rooms, showcasing a diverse range of interior design styles and personal touches. The living room, a central space for relaxation and socializing, is presented through examples from prominent figures in entertainment and media. Each celebrity's living room is described with attention to its unique features, color schemes, furniture choices, and overall aesthetic, providing readers with inspiration for their own homes. The article begins with Kaley Cuoco's living room, described as a perfect spot for unwinding, featuring a large L-shaped grey sofa, glass doors, and a mini home bar. It then transitions to David and Victoria Beckham's Cotswolds home, highlighting its rustic charm with exposed brick, wooden beams, and green tartan carpets. Their urban living space is also detailed, showcasing a luxurious velvet button-back sofa and concrete lamps. Sharon Osbourne's living room is noted for its vibrant color palette, including a pink L-shaped sofa with clashing green and blue cushions, and large windows overlooking the garden. Katherine Heigl's living room is characterized by abundant natural light, a pink corner sofa, and personalized bookshelves. Ben Shephard's Richmond home features a multi-functional navy blue living room with mustard accents and floor-to-ceiling windows. Drew Barrymore's relaxation room doubles as a library, filled with colorful books and a comfortable grey sofa. Rochelle and Marvin Humes' living room incorporates a large grey corner sofa, cream carpets, and blue walls with prints. Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes' Surrey home is described as cozy with soft beige walls, wooden floors, and a modern black fireplace. Charlotte Hawkins' living room is elegant with a chesterfield sofa and a cream sideboard. James and Ola Jordan's modern living room features plush grey carpets, metallic silver accents, and white wainscoting. Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan's former living room had a muted cream color scheme with metallic touches. Robbie Williams and Ayda Field's Los Angeles home boasts a huge corner sofa, a piano, and gold light fittings. Charley Webb and Matthew Wolfenden's living room is praised for its bold color scheme, combining a burnt orange velvet sofa with charcoal walls. Patsy Palmer's Malibu living room offers a relaxed beach house vibe with a lilac accent wall and wooden flooring. Justin and Hailey Bieber's living room includes a pale blue sofa and a marble coffee table with a statement artwork. Courteney Cox's Malibu home features a calming neutral color scheme with cream sofas and fresh flowers. Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly's individual living rooms are contrasted, with Dec opting for soft cream tones and Ant choosing blue panelled walls and a velvet sofa with yellow cushions. Megan McKenna's living room exudes luxury with a dark navy palette, velvet L-shaped sofa, and matching curtains. Amanda Holden's two living rooms are detailed: one with midnight blue walls and an azure velvet sofa, and another in her country home with traditional wooden beams, hardwood flooring, and a colorful velvet corner sofa. Geri Horner's living room, famous for the Spice Girls reunion, features green patterned wallpaper, an open fireplace, and numerous awards. Lucy Fallon's transformed living room presents pale green walls, leather sofas, and a fluffy rug, while Kym Marsh showcases a statement glass-topped coffee table. Nick Grimshaw's cool living room displays a dark color scheme with velvet, metallic accents, and animal prints. Joe Wicks' former living room used midnight blue velvet sofas and a contrasting orange footstool, adorned with a world map and guitars. Scarlett Moffatt's living room is stylish with a silver hammered metal coffee table, a pink sofa, and a zebra print rug. Rylan Clark-Neal's open-plan living room and kitchen are glamorous, featuring a silver-grey velvet sofa and a mirrored coffee table. Emma Willis' lounge has wooden flooring, a grey patterned rug, and decorative touches like a lantern and cushions. Catherine Zeta-Jones' New York living room is traditional and formal, with terracotta walls, patterned rugs, and multiple seating areas. Cindy Crawford's open-plan home is decorated in muted neutral tones with chevron cushions and faux fur throws. Lena Headey's living room features reclaimed oak flooring, an open log fire, and statement lighting. Diane Kruger's New York apartment boasts oversized windows, reclaimed oak flooring, and an original brick wall. Julianne Moore's New York townhouse living room has dark grey walls and striking furniture. Robert Downey Jr.'s living room, located at the base of a converted windmill, includes a unique wraparound fireplace. Lindsey Buckingham's spacious home has a modern, neutral décor with a comfortable seating area, dining table, and bar. Adam Levine's former home features a grand living room with two seating areas, an ornate chandelier, and a grand piano. Eva Longoria's home has formal and informal family rooms with high ceilings, oak flooring, and plush sofas. Novak Djokovic's beachfront apartment offers incredible views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel's penthouse living room is a comfortable space for relaxation. Rosie O'Donnell's New York penthouse provides dual-aspect city views with a sofa area and a dining table. Vince Vaughn's home features an open-plan downstairs with neutral colors, dark wooden floors, and a traditional fireplace. James Corden's Brentwood home has a pristinely furnished living room with an open fireplace and grand piano. John Krasinski and Emily Blunt's Brooklyn home includes a middle parlor room with stained glass windows and built-in bookshelves. Jon Bon Jovi's New York property boasts a spacious living and dining room with impressive city views. Kris Jenner's Hidden Hills home has an open-plan family room filled with natural light. Kylie Jenner's rented home features a beautifully decorated living room with high ceilings and ample seating. Angelina Jolie's Hollywood mansion contains a formal living room with plush sofas and a traditional fireplace. Serena Williams' new home enjoys plenty of natural sunlight with floor-to-ceiling windows and a grey corner sofa. Matthew Perry's Los Angeles penthouse living room is bright and spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows and a grand piano. The article concludes by emphasizing the variety of designs and personal preferences reflected in these celebrity spaces. #CelebrityHomes #LivingRoomDesign #InteriorInspiration #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #DesignTrends #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeStyling #CelebrityLifestyle

Kacey Primer, the owner and founder of Marietta-based interior design firm 26th & Oregon, brings a unique blend of function and personality to family homes. Ten years ago, Primer, a Texas native, felt a calling for a fresh start, leading her and her partner, Michelle, to move from Milwaukee to Cobb County. This decision marked a new chapter, allowing Primer to pursue her long-held dream of becoming an interior designer. The couple quickly established their business in 2015, with Kacey focusing on design concepts and Michelle managing project execution and contractor coordination. The firm's name, 26th & Oregon, pays homage to the Milwaukee streets where they first met two decades ago, symbolizing their enduring partnership in both life and business. 26th & Oregon offers a comprehensive range of bespoke design services, including full-service renovations, home refreshers, consultations, e-designs, and a curated online shop. The firm caters to a diverse clientele with varying design preferences, from traditional to maximalist and mid-century modern styles. While Kacey has experience in both commercial and residential projects, her specialty lies in single-family homes. Her design philosophy emphasizes creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing spaces, incorporating eclectic details and unexpected charm to make homes feel uniquely lived-in and cherished. Primer describes her personal style as contemporary with a modern flair, often featuring whimsical pops of color, bold artwork, and upholstered accent chairs, all while ensuring that family homes can be both stylish and practical. A core belief for Primer is that everyone deserves a beautiful home, regardless of their lifestyle. Primer's inspiration is primarily drawn from her clients' aspirations for their spaces, paying close attention to minor details such as art collections or even shoe choices to visualize a design that perfectly aligns with their aesthetic desires. She embraces each new project as an opportunity for creative exploration, keeping up with the latest design trends through social media, publications, and home markets, though always adapting them to suit her clients' individual preferences. Primer also encourages clients to venture beyond their comfort zones, subtly introducing elements of the 26th & Oregon aesthetic, even for those who prefer a minimalist approach, through accents like rugs or art pieces. Her creative foundation was built in a childhood home filled with DIY projects and artistic endeavors, influenced by her mother's passion for home improvements and her late father, radio legend Bobby O’Jay's, entrepreneurial spirit and eloquence. These influences instilled in her a natural inclination for self-expression through design and business. Initially viewing interior design as a hobby, Primer's confidence grew through personal home renovations and collaborations with contractors. Her experience in event planning, which involved transforming spaces with unique themes, solidified her vision for a full-time career in design. Looking ahead, Primer aims to expand 26th & Oregon, planning to take on more commercial projects and establish a brick-and-mortar store in the coming years. She envisions the business as a family legacy, to be passed down to future generations. Primer also highlights the connection between interior design and mental well-being, believing that comfortable and beautiful living spaces contribute to a better quality of life. She intends to evolve 26th & Oregon into a broader lifestyle and wellness brand, all while remaining focused on her own path and avoiding comparisons, underscoring the importance of forging one's unique journey in entrepreneurship. Primer offers practical tips for homeowners looking to elevate their spaces, including advice on curtain styling, minimizing glass decor, decluttering, organizing throws, embracing negative space, and experimenting with furniture paint and hardware upgrades. Additionally, she suggests DIY hacks for a luxurious look, such as adding trim to soft furnishings, upgrading cabinet hardware and switch plates, layering lighting, creating custom accent pillows, mixing old and new decor, and using art frame TVs or custom frames for existing televisions to display art, along with layering rugs for a sophisticated touch. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KaceyPrimer #26thAndOregon #Marietta #EclecticDesign #FunctionalHomes #DIYHome #DesignTips

This article details the interior design process of a 10,000-square-foot Houston, Texas estate by designer Courtney Hill Fertitta. The primary design challenge involved making each room distinct while maintaining a cohesive overarching theme throughout the home. Fertitta addressed this by replacing door and window details with a nude trim, creating a neutral base for individual room designs. The two-story entryway serves as a grand focal point and establishes the design direction for the downstairs area. It features a light and bright aesthetic, with a bold color pop that influenced the patterned rug in the adjacent family room. This strategic use of color and texture allows for a visual progression from one space to the next. The downstairs continues this bold theme with a purple-toned office, a green-walled library, and a living room with gold accents. High ceilings presented an opportunity for creative lighting and wall color choices. Fertitta incorporated a large glass chandelier in the entry, along with subtle pendant lights in the kitchen and sleek gold fixtures in a guest bedroom. Many of the lighting fixtures are vintage, having been sourced early in the project to fulfill various aesthetic and functional requirements. Layered lighting is emphasized for its ability to adapt to mood and external conditions. The design heavily utilizes patterns and textural details, carefully balanced to avoid overwhelming the formal spaces while ensuring comfort for a family with young children. A key principle was to highlight one patterned or colored element in a room, complementing it with rich, saturated tones. This approach is evident in the dining room, where scenic wallpaper is paired with softer fabrics. Smaller areas within the home, such as two bar areas, allowed for more design risks while still adhering to the overall theme. The downstairs bar, connected to a bright kitchen with metallic accents, incorporates reflective back-painted glass and open shelving. The upstairs coffee bar, attached to a brown and neutral-toned guest bedroom, features suede wallpaper, gold accents, and hidden storage to add sophistication and visual interest. Fertitta's favorite room is the sophisticated green library, which also functions as a casual dining space. This multipurpose room was designed with a focus on lighting, furniture, cozy accents, and a grand scale. Elements such as tortoiseshell wallpaper behind bookcases, a large chandelier, wooden chairs, and a patterned wall were combined. To prevent visual clutter, different shades of a single color were used, and natural light from French doors contributes to a calming atmosphere. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHome #HoustonDesign #CourtneyHillFertitta #GlamorousInteriors #DesignInspiration #MultipurposeRooms

The article explores the increasing trend of custom-built homes designed to deeply reflect the homeowners' unique hobbies, habits, lifestyles, and aspirations. It highlights various examples of newly constructed residences that integrate personalized features, from specialized storage solutions and accessibility considerations like elevators to bespoke artistic elements such as custom murals and wallpaper. This focus on personalization ensures that each home serves as a distinct extension of its occupants' lives. One featured home, built by Stonewood for empty nesters seeking an "Up North" feel near the Twin Cities, exemplifies luxury and natural integration. By combining two Lake Minnetonka lots, the design maximizes privacy and incorporates traditional elements like stone arches, cedar shingle siding, and custom iron handrails, all chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. The interior boasts extensive millwork, unpolished brass, and blackened hardware that will gracefully patina over time. Custom wallpaper in each room contributes to a unique narrative, while ample windows frame lake views. The home also incorporates forward-thinking materials and systems, including geothermal heating, superior insulation, and low-maintenance exteriors, achieving a blend of timeless design and modern sustainability without sacrificing beauty. Another project by Nor-Son Custom Builders demonstrates a "Mixed Media" approach, blending rustic charm with modern sophistication. This home features a juxtaposition of materials, with steel and metal accents alongside natural timber and stone. The exterior combines natural stone, brick, and cement board siding, while the interior showcases a three-story stairwell with metal railings, wrapped in brick, and reclaimed oak flooring. Reclaimed oak beams in the great room complement a concrete fireplace and countertops in the kitchen. A notable detail is the owner's suite headboard wall, crafted from reclaimed walnut sourced from trees removed from the building site, further emphasizing the integration of natural and repurposed materials. Gonyea Custom Homes' model home, initially showcased in the Parade of Homes, redefines the concept of a "model" by focusing on realism and attainability rather than a generic template. Strategically placed to leverage a preserved wetland, the kitchen is at the front, allowing the great room and dining area to enjoy scenic views. A unique staircase design includes a mid-level loft for versatile use as a music room, office, or sitting area, and a dedicated kids' space maximizes functionality. The home incorporates various colors beyond white, such as a soothing tan in the kitchen, and features unique light fixtures, custom wall paneling, and artisan tile work. Earth tones and curved, organic shapes like arches contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance. Streeter Custom Builder's "Old Romantics" project on a lakeside property blends classical aesthetics with whimsical, personal details. The East Coast–inspired exterior, with its stone and symmetry, gives way to an interior filled with character. A porthole window into the pantry and Grecian-patterned vent covers add antique charm. A hand-painted verdure mural in the dining room conceals a hidden jib door leading to a blushing pink china closet, adding an unexpected touch of whimsy. Custom tiling in the kids' shower with a "No Diving" motif and a pull-down world map at the kitchen table further reflect the homeowners' personalities and travel aspirations. Landschute's Cape Cod-inspired lakefront property, designed with two equally important "front" sides due to its lake visibility, focuses on classic style and extensive outdoor living. Gables, dormers, gray shingles, and white windows create an approachable, luxurious aesthetic. The home features multiple porches on both the front and lakeside, along with a boathouse, creating abundant spaces for relaxation and enjoying the waterfront. OA Design+Build+Architecture's "Coloring Outside the Lines" project emphasizes the connection between built and natural environments. The exterior features durable PVC decking with a cedar look, contrasting with stark panels and channel. The color palette, including a copper roof, blue and beige panels, and orange highlights, creates a complex yet calming impression. Inside, the primary suite showcases urban forested burl maple and Russian olive in the vanity, a Turkish quartzite counter resembling petrified wood, and hand-carved sinks with kimono patterns. A "rust wall" in the mudroom, designed to look like Corten steel, meets a spalted birch bench, celebrating the natural beauty of materials in various stages. Ron Clark Construction and Design's "Small But Mighty" walk-out rambler in Ridgewood Ponds targets downsizers who desire high-end finishes and ample space for entertaining. It features big windows, a cathedral vault with arched trusses on the main level, and a lower level designed for parties with a stone fireplace, wet bar, and billiards room. The design incorporates trends towards more color, layered looks, millwork, and stained cabinetry. A clever apothecary-style built-in at the stairs conceals functional doors behind decorative drawer fronts. Custom One Homes' "Life, Styled" project was tailored to a health-conscious couple's specific needs, including a chef’s kitchen, double island, and generous bedrooms. A dedicated wellness retreat on the lower level, complete with a workout area, infrared sauna, and adjacent outdoor hot tub, provides a private sanctuary. An elevator was included for longevity, ensuring the home can adapt to their changing needs over time. A sunroom connects the interior to the deck and outdoor kitchen, and the backyard features multiple entertainment areas, water features, and lounging zones, designed as an extension of the indoor living spaces. Howard Homes' "Natural Selection" project, designed by Albertsson Hansen Architecture and Interior Design, focuses on simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature. The secluded home uses natural materials like a dramatic natural fir ceiling and a soapstone slab island. The color palette draws from the surrounding landscape, featuring whites and muted greens. Adaptability is key, with a main-floor office that doubles as an overflow bedroom via a hidden Murphy bed. The homeowners actively restored natural prairie grass and created a large garden, with all interior finishes and wood window sashes chosen to frame the natural views like art, reinforcing the idea of homes becoming a personal reflection of their owners' lives and habits. Finally, Bronder Construction’s cabin, designed by Rehkamp Larson Architects, on a central Minnesota lake, embodies "Cabin Fever" with Scandinavian flair and year-round functionality. Despite its narrow peninsula location, every room offers water views. The design prioritizes private indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, with a deep overhang porch featuring a fireplace and ceiling heaters to extend its use through seasons. Durable, polished concrete with heated floors on the first level and warm wood cladding throughout the main floor create a cozy, Scandi-inspired atmosphere. A remodeled bunkhouse and renovated storage shed with a rooftop deck provide flexible spaces for smaller groups, quiet reading, or remote work, catering to the post-COVID trend of balancing togetherness with individual space. #CustomHomes #InteriorDesign #Architecture #HomeBuilding #LuxuryHomes #PersonalizedSpaces #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

The "Jolie Laide" trend, translating to "pretty-ugly," is gaining significant traction in interior design, offering an antidote to overly curated and impersonal home aesthetics. This approach encourages the incorporation of unconventional, quirky, or even initially jarring pieces that evoke a strong emotional response, ultimately injecting personality and promoting authentic self-expression within a living space. It moves away from the pursuit of aesthetic perfection and embraces elements that might initially raise eyebrows but ultimately contribute to a more distinctive and meaningful environment. According to designers like David Lucido, the inclusion of "ugly" pieces sparks conversation and brings energy to a space, preventing it from feeling too serious or sterile. Design expert Virginia Chamlee emphasizes that "ugly" in this context is a term of affection, signifying items that are unconventionally beautiful and, when paired with more traditional elements, create a balanced and intriguing dynamic. She offers a litmus test: if a piece makes one question or ponder, it likely fits the 'jolie laide' philosophy, drawing parallels to historical art movements like Jackson Pollock’s abstract work or even popular yet polarizing items like Crocs. Interior designers, including Joyce Huston of Decorilla, have observed a growing client demand for unique and personalized elements in their homes, a departure from previously popular "magazine-ready" aesthetics. Designers find excitement in helping clients embrace this unconventional approach, viewing it as a means to create original and authentic spaces that move beyond predictable design solutions. This trend serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the prevalence of algorithm-driven design, which often promotes homogenous, "greige" aesthetics, as noted by Chamlee. Darlene Molnar highlights that algorithmic influences make it challenging to deviate from popular looks, underscoring the importance of 'jolie laide' in encouraging designers and clients to challenge conventional choices. The trend manifests in various forms, from unique art pieces to bold pattern combinations, all contributing to a space's distinctiveness. Molnar suggests that the most successful designs are those that may not appeal to everyone, emphasizing the subjective nature of beauty in this context. Shannon Askinasi of Ash & Pine Interiors sees the 'jolie laide' philosophy emerging naturally through clients' desires to incorporate sentimental or avant-garde items. She considers these "ugly-pretty" pieces as strong starting points that inspire and challenge the design process. Molnar views 'jolie laide' as a deeply rooted design philosophy rather than a fleeting trend, focusing on creating spaces that narrate personal stories through cherished, unconventional objects. This perspective is echoed by Ghislaine Viñas, who believes the trend fosters confidence in one's own taste and encourages a non-judgmental appreciation for diverse forms of beauty. To adopt the 'jolie laide' aesthetic, Askinasi recommends starting small with decor or accessories, encouraging individuals to revisit sentimental family pieces or seek out unique finds at antique markets. Christie Ward suggests exploring obscure websites and estate sales for statement pieces. The core idea is to select items that create a "good WTF moment," adding interest and personal meaning to a space. Even bold wallpapers that initially seem jarring can become beloved elements, demonstrating that true personalization often lies in embracing the unexpected.

This article highlights the design and construction of Peter Donohoe's multi-use homestead in Carlisle, Massachusetts, crafted by Patrick Ahearn Architect. Donohoe, a former Olympic bobsledder and current athlete conditioner, sought to create a property that could seamlessly integrate his personal life with his professional endeavors. The nearly 3-acre plot was envisioned to include a main house for entertaining and guests, a carriage house for his car collection, and a barn for his training facility and his wife's office. The initial design phase focused on complex site planning due to the hilly terrain, a process that took several months to finalize. The primary challenge was to create a grand country house that maintained a sense of intimacy and privacy, fitting within Carlisle's farmhouse aesthetic without appearing ostentatious. Architect Patrick Ahearn's design philosophy prioritized the client experience, ensuring that professional activities did not infringe on family life. This was achieved by creating a secondary driveway leading directly to the fitness barn, allowing clients to access the facility without interacting with the main residence or family members. The barn itself was designed with board-and-batten siding and strategic landscaping to blend harmoniously with the surrounding compound. The property features multiple outdoor spaces, including covered porches, second-floor decks, terraces, and gardens, providing various settings for relaxation and private moments. Three of the upstairs bedrooms offer direct access to private outdoor areas. The exterior aesthetics were carefully considered, with new stone walls constructed to mimic older ones and a painted clapboard carriage house designed to appear historically established. The main house, despite exceeding 7,000 square feet, is clad in cedar shingles and designed as a double-gambrel cottage, giving it a more modest appearance from the front. Interior design elements like varying ceiling heights, French doors, and a mix of textures such as beadboard, glass, and stone were used to delineate spaces and prevent the large home from feeling overwhelming. A single main corridor ensures easy flow without passing through multiple rooms. Specific areas within the house demonstrate this thoughtful design. The spacious kitchen is divided by half-walls and columns, creating a distinct breakfast room with views of the bluestone patio and pool. The living room features a stone-veneer fireplace, while a formal dining room was included to accommodate Donohoe's desire for weekend-long dinner parties. These architectural and design choices collectively create what Ahearn describes as "drama that’s intimate in scale." The interior décor, a collaboration with Duncan Hughes Interiors and Dewing Schmid Kearns, blends existing and new furniture and artwork, reflecting a modern farmhouse aesthetic that is both cozy and functional, impressive yet unpretentious, reminiscent of an old New England homestead. The property's overall design effectively balances scale, privacy, and functionality to meet the diverse needs of its owners. #HomeDesign #Architecture #LuxuryHomes #CarlisleProperty #PatrickAhearnArchitect #HomesteadDesign #SitePlanning #InteriorDesign #OutdoorSpaces