Where We Live: 1890s Queen Anne Victorian style Durham-Davis house

The article explores Queen Anne-style homes, a distinctive and ornate architectural style that emerged in the United States in the 1880s during the Gilded Age. These homes are characterized by their whimsical use of color, elaborate stucco work, and often unconventional floor plans, reflecting the period's economic prosperity and lavish tastes. The beauty of Queen Anne architecture lies in its individuality, with variations seen across different properties and regions. The article highlights five iconic examples of Queen Anne-style homes across the United States. The first example is a red brick townhouse in Kentucky, built in 1889. This property exemplifies classic Queen Anne features, including tall bay windows, unique stained glass, and a fanciful turret. The owner, Zane Platt-Faulkner, emphasizes the ornate grandeur of the late 19th-century residential design, noting the mix of red brick and wood materials, and the personalized stained glass depicting the home's original female inhabitants. The second featured property is the Harper House in Hickory, North Carolina, constructed in 1887. This mansion is notable for its unique layout and exterior, featuring a wraparound porch, a distinctive element of the Queen Anne style, along with a top-floor balcony and an upstairs extension. The house also boasts stained glass windows throughout its tower and interior. Recent renovations have focused on preserving its architectural integrity, using new wood for balustrades and columns that contrast with the gabled roof and paneled walls. The exterior is finished in subtle yellow with darker yellow trim and wood accents, enhancing its intricate design. The third example is a traditional family home in Chevy Chase Village, Maryland, built in 1905, representing a later phase of Queen Anne construction. Interior designer Nina Farmer led the redesign of its interiors, aiming to maintain the home's historical character while updating it with a contemporary color palette. The house features a classic asymmetrical façade, decorative gables, a welcoming wraparound porch that extends beyond the house's perimeter, a white picket fence, and grand classical columns, blending traditional aesthetics with modern sensibilities. The fourth illustration is a butter yellow residence in Lockhart, Texas. This home showcases the whimsical color palette often associated with Queen Anne style, combined with castle-like turrets, ornately carved stuccos, and gabled roofs. The property’s impressive height, exaggerated by its spiral turret and layered roof, and its unconventional three-tiered roof design contribute to its distinctive personality and fable-like reputation. A white-painted balustrade porch and a double curved doorway add to its visual appeal. Finally, the article describes the renowned “Painted Ladies” of San Francisco, a row of Queen Anne-style buildings in the Alamo Square neighborhood, built in the 1870s. These homes are famous for their vibrant, whimsical colors and ornate, individualistic exteriors. Repainted in the 1960s, each house in the row features distinct carved patterns, gable styles, and shaped doorways, transforming a residential street into a widely recognized landmark. These examples collectively demonstrate the diversity and charm inherent in Queen Anne architecture, underscoring its enduring appeal and historical significance in American design. #QueenAnneStyle #AmericanArchitecture #VictorianHomes #ArchitecturalHistory #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #HomeStyles

Althorp House, the childhood home of the late Princess Diana, is maintained by her brother, Earl Charles Spencer. Recently, a previously unseen bathroom within the historic residence was revealed through a photograph shared by Charles's wife, Karen, on her Instagram account. The image showcased a wooden vanity unit, elegantly topped with glass, on which Karen had arranged an urn-style vase featuring yellow blossom twigs. Adjacent to the vase, a silver platter held hand soap, lotion, and a bar of soap, accompanied by a glass jar filled with cotton wool. The bathroom itself is characterized by white brick tiles, contributing to a clean and fresh aesthetic. Karen captioned the post with "Bathroom touches," complemented by a love heart emoji, providing a glimpse into the private quarters of Althorp House. This revelation follows other recent insights into the property, including a look at the Prince of Wales' room. This particular room is not currently occupied by Prince William, the present Prince of Wales, but is named in honor of a former one, King Edward VII, who visited the estate in 1863. The room is distinguished by a grand four-poster bed, a prominent fireplace, an armchair, and a footstool. Earl Charles Spencer has indicated ongoing renovation efforts to restore this room to its original appearance from over a century ago, aiming to remove more modern additions and reinstate its historical authenticity. Althorp House is also famously the resting place of Princess Diana. Her grave is situated on an island within the poignant Oval Lake on the estate, accessible only by boat. Prince Harry recounted visiting this site with Meghan Markle in his memoir, "Spare," detailing their boat trip to pay respects to his mother. While the property is open to visitors during summer months, direct access to Diana's gravesite is restricted. Instead, a dedicated memorial area, a temple, is available for visitors to leave floral tributes and cards in her honor. Earl Spencer and Karen frequently share updates from Althorp House, offering followers glimpses into various aspects of the historic estate and its ongoing preservation. Their social media presence allows for a continued connection between the public and the heritage of the Spencer family and Princess Diana. #PrincessDiana #AlthorpHouse #RoyalHomes #CharlesSpencer #HomeDecor #HistoricProperty #RoyalFamily #InteriorDesign #BritishRoyalty

This article showcases a $1.15 million contemporary home located at 137 Willow Creek Lane in South Hanover Township, Dauphin County, part of the 'Cool Spaces' series. The residence, a Landmark Homes Callahan plan spanning 3,600 square feet, stands out with its distinctive exterior and thoughtfully designed interior. The architectural style incorporates opposing sharp rooflines, varied projections, clerestory windows, and cedar-look siding accents that complement the front door. Further exterior details include stone veneer, contrasting darker siding, black window framing, a metal roof over the front porch, and modern exterior light fixtures. The property also features a three-car side-load garage with doors matching the home's accents and horizontal windows, maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic. Inside, the home boasts hardwood floors across most of the first level. The owner's suite is a key feature, complete with a lit tray ceiling accent, an en-suite bathroom featuring a custom tile shower, and an oversized walk-in closet that conveniently connects to the laundry area. A practical mudroom, equipped with benches and lockers, provides access to both the garage and the dining room/kitchen area. The foyer creates a welcoming entrance with built-in bench seating, storage, and a vertical wall accent, mirroring the adjacent front study's design. A powder room off the foyer is fitted with a floating vanity, under-cabinet lighting, and a floor-to-ceiling tile wall. The dining room, situated to the left of the foyer, features a cathedral ceiling and a wall of windows that follow the ceiling's angle, offering views of the front yard. The open-concept kitchen is appointed with quartz countertops, a matching quartz backsplash, an island sink, a pot filler above the stove, and an exposed stainless steel stove hood. It provides ample storage through extensive cabinetry, including additional cabinets on the great room-facing side of the island. Adjacent to the kitchen is a butler's pantry with a second sink and a separate walk-in pantry. A large breakfast area bump-out off the kitchen provides direct access to the backyard deck. The heart of the home is a two-story great room, distinguished by a full-height gray and black tile surround fireplace that visually contrasts with the wood flooring and abundant windows. The second floor features a bright and open hallway leading to a loft area that overlooks the great room, offering exterior views. The remaining three bedrooms on this level radiate from the loft; one includes an en-suite full bath, while the other two share a full bath. The front bedroom is notable for its window-lit walk-in closet, illuminated by two diagonal windows facing the front of the home. The lower level includes a sliding door side-yard walk-out and can be finished to the owner's specifications. The home is listed by Landmark Homes community sales manager Jilian Treadway. #DauphinCountyHome #ContemporaryArchitecture #LuxuryRealEstate #CoolSpaces #LandmarkHomes #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #WillowCreekFarms

The Danube family's mansion in Emirates Hills, Dubai, is an example of a personalized and luxurious multi-generational home. Sana Sajan, Director of the American Aesthetic Medical Center of Danube Group, spent two years designing this residence with her family and a team of creatives, moving in during 2018. The family sought a larger space to accommodate their growing needs, departing from their previous home on the Palm. The villa, situated overlooking the Montgomerie Golf Course, features eight bedrooms, eleven bathrooms, and a lush garden. Designed to cater to seven family members and twelve staff, the home reflects a lifestyle centered on frequent social gatherings, often hosting between 250 to 300 guests. The 40,000 square-foot residence employs a color scheme of white, black, and gold, complementing bespoke furniture and decor. The design adopts a minimalist modern approach, incorporating statement pieces that highlight each family member's individuality. Natural light is a crucial element, achieved through the extensive use of white, symbolizing purity. The prevalence of gold in the design is a nod to Dubai's fashion-forward culture, embodying a sense of royalty. The design also integrates the family's preferred designers, adding unique stylistic touches. For instance, Sana's master bedroom features a Versace theme, characterized by black and gold elements and the brand's Medusa emblem, reflecting her personal taste for opulent design. Aquatic themes are another notable feature, drawing inspiration from Atlantis Dubai. The mansion includes multiple water bodies and aquariums with exotic fish in the living and master rooms, creating a serene and calm ambiance that aligns with Sana’s vision for a natural and well-lit home. A prominent chandelier, designed by the same lighting architect as the Atlantis hotel, serves as a central artistic element in the main staircase, connecting all floors. Its warm crystal elements, shaped like shells, evoke an underwater theme, offering a unique contrast with the white interiors. Beyond luxurious aesthetics, the home incorporates playful and eccentric elements. A multi-purpose entertainment room is equipped with a Mustang car converted into a pool table, neon wall lights, and a ping-pong table, serving as a versatile space for gatherings and celebrations. Adjacent to this is a 22-seater cinema with recliners and a large screen, designed for a theatrical experience. These spaces are configured to be both quirky and comfortable, suitable for various family events. Sana, leveraging her medical and arts background, found an unexpected passion for interior design during the creation of her dream home, viewing it as a significant personal project. She collaborated with her husband, Adel Sajan, who contributed his expertise in home building. Their collective vision was realized with the assistance of Italian interior designers and local experts. Sana emphasizes that designing a home requires long-term planning, a clear theme, and vision, considering the space as the core of family memories. The Danube house, ultimately, embodies the family’s values of love, vibrancy, and individuality, serving as a testament to a dream realized. #DanubeFamily #EmiratesHills #LuxuryHomes #InteriorDesign #MultiGenerationalHome #VersaceDecor #DubaiRealEstate #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures

This article showcases a three-bedroom Edwardian house in Nottingham that has undergone a significant reconfiguration to align with modern living requirements while preserving its inherent period features. The owner, an interior architect, spearheaded the transformation, acknowledging that despite her professional background, the process of redesigning her own home involved extensive planning and consideration of various layouts. The objective was to achieve a home that offered a seamless flow, ample space, and a comfortable, cozy atmosphere. The renovation started with a "tired and depressing" property, which the owners aimed to revitalize for future generations. Initial attempts to paint everything white were abandoned in favor of incorporating color to highlight the house's character. The living room, for instance, features a soft, neutral backdrop that allows original architectural elements to stand out, complemented by bold pastel accents. The owners discovered that a strategic application of color and contrast was essential to bring the house to life, opting for bright, uplifting hues that feel fresh. The kitchen-diner, originally an exterior courtyard, was extended and now boasts a large skylight, creating a bright and airy space. White units provide extensive storage and a clean aesthetic, while ceramic 'faux flagstone' floor tiles offer the warmth of real stone without the high maintenance. A unique design choice includes using bird wallpaper as a splashback, sealed with polyurethane varnish to withstand the kitchen environment. A Shaker-style cupboard discreetly conceals twin fridge-freezers, maintaining the room's classic appeal. The dining area is adorned with small, impactful pieces like bright blue artwork and distressed barn stars, offering a blend of retro and modern decor against a neutral backdrop. The hallway features traditional panelling painted in a soft-pastel grey, matching the walls and enhancing the period feel. Two side tables pushed together serve as a low-profile alternative to a console, demonstrating clever space utilization. In the main bedroom, contemporary bird-print wallpaper creates a light and dynamic atmosphere, with carefully selected cushions tying the room's color scheme and motifs together. The room benefits from citrus yellow accents, which provide a vibrant contrast to the cool grey palette, balancing color without overwhelming the space. The child's room incorporates a fun foxy wallpaper in a subtle grey, harmonizing with the home's overall color scheme. Hexagonal box shelves add functional storage and a playful display area for toys. The bathroom, once a small bedroom, is now a functional and inviting space located under the eaves. Despite the sloping ceiling, the owners successfully integrated a shower, showcasing efficient space planning. Throughout the house, the renovation demonstrates a thoughtful balance between honoring the Edwardian heritage and introducing contemporary design elements, resulting in a home that is both historically resonant and perfectly suited for modern family life. #EdwardianHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ModernLiving #SpacePlanning #ColorPalette #KitchenDesign #BedroomDecor #BathroomRenovation

The article profiles a classic Victorian home at 3225 Gaylord Ave. in Dormont, dubbed the “Narnia House” by local children due to its whimsical exterior and a green globe lamppost reminiscent of the one in C.S. Lewis’s tale. Dana Burrows and Conor McCaskey were captivated by the home, eventually purchasing it in 2016 after years of admiring it. The house, painted in cheerful period colors, features fish-scale shingles and an enchanting turret, with gold leaf house numbers on transom glass adding to its historic charm. The lamppost served as a beloved meeting point for neighborhood children. Upon acquiring the 2,300-square-foot property, which was originally decorated in a near-perfect period design with extensive wallpaper and antique furniture, the couple embarked on a renovation. They removed most of the wallpaper and rugs, revealing well-preserved original hardwood floors. Key interior upgrades included installing a gas fireplace insert in the living room. Mechanical improvements featured new windows and a slate-look metal roof with a lifetime guarantee, replacing the original slate-tile roof. The charming porch and the home's distinctive yellow and green exterior paint colors were retained. The stunning entry is characterized by an original panel staircase with a brass nymph on the newel post, providing golden light. Several original stained glass windows, located in the entry, formal living room, first-floor landing, and an upstairs bathroom, bathe the rooms in warm, colorful light. The living room features a retrofitted marble fireplace facade with a new Valor Fireplace. The formal dining room was updated with a striking black ceiling, a white medallion, and a modern chandelier, creating a dramatic space ideal for entertaining. The unique kitchen, renovated before the couple purchased the home, boasts an exposed brick hearth wall for the range, wood beams, a ceramic tile floor, and another stained glass window above the cabinetry. The home offers four bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. The second floor includes two full bedrooms, a master bedroom, and one full bathroom. One bedroom was converted into a walk-in closet, and another serves as a home office. The upstairs bathroom features wood tongue-in-groove wainscoting, a heated towel rack, built-in closets, and original hardwood floors. The third floor comprises two full bedrooms and a renovated half bathroom, with a ceiling opened up by previous owners. The basement has been modernized with a full bathroom, fireplace, drop ceiling, and laundry area. The property also includes an enchanting gazebo in the backyard, a detached garage, radiator heating, and window air conditioners. The couple eventually sold the home to move to a property on wooded land. #DormontRealEstate #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #HistoricHomes #PittsburghHomes #NarniaHouse #ArchitecturalFeatures #RealEstateMarket

The article profiles Ilana Aronowitz, a senior interior designer at Clive Daniel Home in Boca Raton, highlighting her expertise in residential, commercial, and hospitality interior design. With over 20 years of experience, Aronowitz has been a part of CDH since its inception almost a decade ago. Her design philosophy centers on creating a comfortable and personalized haven for clients, emphasizing that a home should be an oasis from the demands of everyday life. She meticulously understands each client's needs and lifestyle, often beginning a design project with a focal point such as a piece of art, a specific chair, or a color, and then building the rest of the design around this central element. If a client doesn't have a clear starting point, she takes the initiative to create one for them. Aronowitz's approach involves a hands-on method to bring visions to life. Instead of merely describing ideas, she physically tapes walls and places material samples on them, allowing clients to see and feel how the proposed design elements will look and interact within their space. She has a particular passion for creating dynamic backgrounds and incorporating various layers into her designs. This includes not only hanging art but also blanketing feature walls with a mix of wallpaper, stone, and wood to generate visual interest and depth. Her intuitive understanding of color is another hallmark of her work, as she enjoys introducing clients to new palettes and blending different hues. Currently, popular color trends Aronowitz observes and incorporates include rusts, earth tones, and dusty rose, which she notes are presented with a modern and improved aesthetic compared to their 1980s counterparts. In terms of patterns, geometrics, houndstooth, and herringbone are prominent, often combined with a rich variety of textures within the color schemes. She asserts that Clive Daniel Home is a trendsetter in Boca Raton, constantly innovating and offering fresh perspectives on design. The company's 70,000-square-foot showroom in Boca Raton features a vast selection from over 250 suppliers, ensuring they remain at the forefront of design trends. Aronowitz's educational background includes degrees in photography and advertising and design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, followed by interior design studies at Berkeley College in New Jersey. After establishing her career in design, she moved to Florida 17 years ago. Her contributions to the field have been recognized with multiple Gold and Silver Aurora Awards, underscoring her achievements and influence in the interior design industry. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CliveDanielHome #BocaRaton #IlanaAronowitz #ResidentialDesign #CommercialDesign #HospitalityDesign #DesignTrends

Binh and Thomas Allen, a couple with no prior property development experience, embarked on an ambitious three-year renovation of an untouched Victorian terrace in West Dulwich, South London. They discovered a property built in the early 1900s with many original features still intact, a rarity in today's market, and were captivated by its inherent charm. Their vision for the home was to blend its historical Victorian elements with modern mid-century furniture and contemporary furnishings, a reflection of their diverse backgrounds—Binh from Vietnam and Thomas from Switzerland. The renovation was not without significant challenges. The couple chose to live in the house throughout the process, even enduring a period where their roof was removed for a loft conversion. This meant sharing their living space with builders six days a week and contending with constant dust and exposure to the elements, including birds flying into their bedroom through the open roof. Despite these difficulties, their belief in their dream home never wavered. They meticulously managed the project themselves, from sourcing all materials and furnishings to keeping a strict handle on the budget, a task at which Thomas excelled with his detailed spreadsheets. A key motivation for purchasing a "doer-upper" was to maximize their investment. They began with essential upgrades, such as installing a new boiler and removing outdated carpeting. The renovation was phased over three years due to budget constraints. In the second year, they tackled bathroom renovations, and by the third year, they undertook the two most significant projects: the loft conversion and the kitchen remodeling. They gathered ideas by attending local open house sales, which also helped them understand the precedents for loft conversions and extensions in their area, aiding in the planning permission process. For the loft conversion, they hired a builder with the understanding that they would procure all materials themselves. This hands-on approach resulted in a 20 percent saving on the overall cost, and they learned to negotiate prices effectively. Although the work fell under permitted development, they enlisted an architect specializing in period properties to creatively maximize the space and ensure a premium finish. The architect designed a master suite without compromising ceiling height by strengthening existing joists and adding new ones, avoiding the need for steel beams that would have reduced headroom. They also used the opportunity of scaffolding to repaint windows, repoint, install solar panels, and repair exterior damage. The kitchen renovation involved removing a chimney breast to create space for units, taking out the back wall, and installing Crittall doors. They opted for long and wide timber floorboards to enhance the sense of space and a Shaker-style kitchen with brass details for an urban country aesthetic. Cost savings were achieved by selecting a marble-inspired matte worktop made from natural, recyclable materials, with an offcut used to create a feature shelf. Their patio design was inspired by travertine tiles seen on holiday in Israel, chosen for their creamy, warm appearance and minimalist, Mediterranean feel. They also installed a home office/cinema room in the garden, a multifunctional retreat surrounded by greenery. Inside, they maintained a consistent blue and white color palette, restored original Victorian cornices and ceiling roses, and chose a mix of modern and antique furnishings to create a unique character without being overly traditional. The entrance hall's original Victorian tiles were preserved, with broken ones replaced by matching imitation tiles, and the front door's frosted glass was replaced with stained glass inspired by the floor tiles. The bathroom features reclaimed period tiles from Spain, contrasted with white wall tiles and paint, accommodating a large shower and freestanding bath. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #LoftConversion #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #PeriodProperty #HomeImprovement #LondonRealEstate

This article details the restoration of a historic Victorian-era homestead located in the Western District of Victoria, a region known for its scenic views and dairy farms. The project, led by interior designer Adelaide Bragg, focused on seamlessly blending the original character of the home with modern functionality, ensuring it serves both as a working rural property and a family hub for generations to come. The design brief emphasized practicality, warmth, and a welcoming atmosphere, steering away from anything overly delicate, given that the property is a working farm and frequently hosts family and grandchildren. The homestead's interior now features a calming palette of creams and clay reds, complemented by natural textures. Key elements include sturdy oak floorboards, antique furniture, and a significant art collection from the client. A primary challenge during the renovation was the house's dated configuration, which was not suitable for a modern family, and the lack of sufficient natural light. The renovation addressed these issues by undertaking extensive structural changes. The original back of the house was transformed into a light-filled, spacious front entrance, adorned with botanical fern prints and wool baskets. A large kitchen and family room extension was added, complete with a fireplace and an Aga stove, alongside a generous verandah to facilitate outdoor dining. Designing for a rural home involved specific considerations to honor its historical integrity while making it adaptable for contemporary living. The renovations maintain high ceilings, large-scale rooms, and simple joinery, ensuring a sympathetic approach to the existing structure. The completed home is characterized by an effortless elegance and timelessness, with design elements chosen to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. The dining area, for instance, features a large table and 16 chairs, which serve as a room divider and add textural depth. Kravet fabric on the chairs, referencing horse saddle blankets, and large-scale rooster paintings introduce playful touches. Old olive baskets repurposed as kitchen pendants create a unique focal point, while Monoleath benchtops offer a practical yet concrete-like finish. Oak floorboards, sisal rugs, and cow skins contribute to layering and a casual, inviting ambiance. The homestead's design also integrates with its rural surroundings, offering magnificent views of rolling hills, red gum trees, and the Grampians. The selection of fittings and finishes was guided by the need to be sympathetic to the home's heritage. For example, Sandberg ‘Waldemar’ wallpaper from Ascraft in the powder room was chosen to reflect the oak trees in the garden, and a guest bedroom features a cane bench covered in Lisa Fine ‘Jaisalmer’ fabric from Ascraft. The owners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, confirming that the entire house is now utilized as intended, embodying a successful blend of old-world charm and modern family living. #HomesteadRestoration #InteriorDesign #RuralLiving #VictorianArchitecture #FamilyHome #AdelaideBragg #HomeRenovation #VictorianHomestead

The Courtyard House, designed by D'WELL, is a 920-square-meter farmhouse situated on the outskirts of Surat, India. Completed in 2024, the residence is conceived as a sanctuary for a family seeking a tranquil environment away from urban congestion, fostering a lifestyle integrated with nature and shared family moments. The design prioritizes a connection to the natural surroundings and the creation of intimate, well-lit spaces. The architectural approach emphasizes a contextual design, integrating the structure harmoniously with the site's natural elements. Key to this integration is the extensive use of locally sourced materials, contributing to both the aesthetic and environmental sustainability of the project. Concrete, a primary material, is employed for its thermal mass properties, which help regulate indoor temperatures in Surat's climate. This strategic material selection, combined with passive design strategies, aims to reduce the building's energy consumption. A central courtyard serves as the focal point of the house, influencing both its spatial organization and environmental performance. This open-air space enhances natural ventilation, allowing cool air to circulate throughout the interiors and mitigating the need for excessive artificial cooling. The courtyard also acts as a primary source of natural light, illuminating various rooms and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. The arrangement of rooms around this central element fosters a sense of community and provides a private outdoor oasis for the residents. The interior layout features interconnected spaces that facilitate family interaction while also providing areas for individual retreat. Large openings and strategically placed windows blur the lines between indoor and outdoor environments, offering panoramic views of the landscape and drawing the garden's tranquility into the living spaces. The design incorporates minimalist aesthetics, characterized by clean lines and a neutral color palette, which accentuates the natural textures of the materials and the interplay of light and shadow. Sustainability is a core principle in the Courtyard House's design. Beyond material selection and passive cooling, the project likely incorporates other eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting or solar energy integration, although specific details are not provided. The objective is to create a living environment that is not only visually appealing but also ecologically responsible and conducive to well-being. The project reflects a growing trend in residential architecture towards designs that prioritize user comfort, environmental performance, and a strong connection to nature. By addressing the specific climatic conditions of Surat and the client's desire for a peaceful retreat, D'WELL has crafted a home that embodies thoughtful design and sustainable living principles. The Courtyard House stands as an example of how modern architecture can blend with local context to create functional, beautiful, and environmentally conscious spaces. #ResidentialArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #SustainableDesign #DWELLArchitects #SuratIndia #ModernArchitecture #NaturalVentilation #EcoFriendlyDesign

This blog post explores Place des Vosges, an exclusive residential development in Dallas that draws inspiration from French architectural design. The development, begun in 2006, is specifically modeled after the Place Dauphine in Paris, a triangular residential square with a central courtyard, rather than the more famous original Place des Vosges. Dallas's Place des Vosges is strategically located at the intersection of Irving Avenue and Turtle Creek Boulevard, with its arrow-point design directing residents' views toward Turtle Creek, mimicking the Parisian landmark's orientation to the River Seine. The article highlights the meticulous planning involved in the design of these 16 luxury homes, emphasizing how every proportion, view, window, staircase, and brick was carefully considered to create a distinctive and private environment. The homes within Place des Vosges are characterized by their classic French townhome exteriors and highly individualized interiors. Each residence offers unique features, such as one with a turret observatory and another with an underground garage, demonstrating a commitment to bespoke luxury. These properties attract owners seeking to downsize from larger estates in areas like Park Cities or Preston Hollow, not by reducing their living space significantly, but by minimizing yard work. For instance, Unit #2, a featured property, boasts 6,163 square feet, four bedrooms, and six bathrooms, clearly designed as a family home. This unit is listed by Judy Pittman, who was the original exclusive broker for the development and remains deeply knowledgeable about its architectural nuances and history. Unit #2 exemplifies the sophisticated design principles of Place des Vosges. Its entry hall immediately signals an elegant, non-standard townhouse, providing access to an elevator or a grand staircase leading to the main living level on the second floor. This elevated living arrangement is a nod to traditional grand townhouses and offers views of Turtle Creek during winter months. The second floor features a formal dining room with inlaid wood floors and hand-painted wallpaper, complete with cleverly concealed built-in wine refrigerators. The adjacent kitchen and breakfast area, though not open-concept, are bright and integrate seamlessly into the informal entertaining space. Modern conveniences are discreetly integrated into the 17th-century inspired design, ensuring comfort without compromising historical aesthetic. The upper levels of Unit #2 house a master retreat, office, and family room. A distinctive 'œil de bœuf' (bull's eye) or oculus skylight illuminates the stairwell, a classic architectural feature. The family room is designed to accommodate evolving entertainment technology, with cabinetry framed to fit increasingly large televisions. The master bedroom is spacious, and the master suite includes separate 'his and hers' bathrooms. The 'hers' bathroom is opulent with marble and mirrors, while the 'his' bathroom features a classical wood theme and intricate stone inlay flooring. Even the guest powder room is adorned with stone inlay, an antique vanity, and high ceilings, reflecting the consistent attention to luxury throughout the home. The article concludes by emphasizing the tranquility and secluded nature of Place des Vosges, despite its proximity to the urban core of Dallas. The central location within the development ensures minimal noise, creating a country-like ambiance. The current market condition is unusual, with four of the 16 exclusive homes available for sale, a coincidence rather than a trend. For prospective buyers seeking a luxurious, secluded, yet urban-accessible property, Place des Vosges offers a unique opportunity. Unit #3, another listing by Judy Pittman, is also highlighted as a Palladian three-bedroom home with five full and two half baths, spanning 5,724 square feet, and listed at $5.75 million, also featuring creek views. The article implicitly encourages engagement with Judy Pittman for those interested in these unique properties. #PlaceDesVosges #DallasRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #FrenchCountryside #TownhomeLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #TurtleCreek #HighEndInteriors #DallasLuxury

This blog post offers an exclusive tour of Dallas-based interior designer Erin Sander's custom-built home in University Park, highlighting her unique design philosophy of 'relaxed, refined luxury' and 'Belgian farmhouse' aesthetic. The 5,000-square-foot estate, featuring four bedrooms and five baths, was constructed from the ground up on a quarter-acre lot, with Sander herself drawing the floor and architectural plans. The design emphasizes natural light and understated yet impactful details, drawing inspiration from her travels and other design projects. The home’s architectural features include a long hallway terminating in a window, with steps leading to the second floor, designed to create visually appealing focal points. Custom light fixtures and detailed wood flooring were also designed by Sander. The living room, a space optimized for practicality for her young children, features performance fabrics, a custom grasscloth-covered coffee table, and artwork by Katrine Hildebrandt. An annex, originally Sander's home office, now serves as a family study. This vaulted, story-and-a-half space offers ample storage and privacy. The kitchen is a central highlight, showcasing rift-sawn white oak flooring and hand-hewn Douglas fir beams. A striking pale blue Lacanche oven range, chosen early in the design process due to its year-long procurement time, sets the tone for other blue accents in the space. Other notable kitchen elements include an unlacquered brass faucet by Waterstone and a backsplash by Clé Tile. Over the eye-catching island, custom-made fixtures from Urban Electric Company in a hand-hewn brass finish are suspended. Scandinavian-designed stools provide practical seating, and decorative bowls, including a vintage piece from Sander’s grandmother and ceramics by Sara Kersten, add personal touches. The honed marble countertops were intentionally chosen to observe their wear and tear over time, informing her client recommendations. Café curtains made from hand-blocked fabric by Galbraith & Paul add another layer of detail. The dining room combines vintage McGuire chairs, re-covered in Peter Dunham fabric, with contemporary art by Addie Chapin. Exposed brick and a light fixture from Currey & Company contribute to a modern yet cozy atmosphere. A collection of pewter dishes, including pieces from her mother and finds from the vendor Unrefined, adds dark contrast and personal history to the dining area. A custom coffee station, a testament to the family’s love for coffee, features a La Spaziale espresso machine with walnut panels, open shelving, and an Ann Sacks’ Savoy series backsplash. This functional space is equipped with refrigerator drawers for coffee essentials. The primary bedroom boasts a whimsical Oly Studio light fixture depicting a flock of birds, vintage cabinets from Juxtaposition Home, custom lamps, and quadrille bedding. The master bathroom includes custom white oak vanities and hand-cut limestone floors laid in a unique pattern, accented with tiny blue celeste marble mosaics. The home's exterior features a mix of materials like lime-washed brick and cedar shake, surrounded by live oaks and potted olive trees, creating an approachable street view. A custom wood bench from David Sutherland is nestled among Savannah holly trees in the backyard. The article provides a comprehensive look into an interior designer's personal residence, showcasing a blend of functionality, luxury, and personal style. #InteriorDesign #CustomHome #DallasHomes #HomeFeatures #LuxuryInteriors #BelgianFarmhouse #DesignerHome #HomeDecor #ErinSanderDesign

This article explores the historically rich Queenslander home of Michelle Douglas, a former midwife turned renowned dressmaker and owner of MegByDesign and Chapel & Co, located in Bangalow, NSW. Her home, characterized by its all-white interior, rustic neutrals, and handcrafted items, doubles as her creative workspace. Michelle's design philosophy emphasizes the beauty and energy found in old things and natural materials, which is evident throughout her living space and her fashion labels. The home, a traditional Queenslander, was initially in a state of disrepair with decades of dust and motor oil stains, but Michelle saw its potential. She personally painted the floorboards to complement the existing white walls, creating a minimalist yet inviting atmosphere. The interior is a curated collection of wire cages, metal lamps, and antique wooden tables, all acquiring a muted patina over time. Her living room features sofa cushions made from repurposed postal sacks and painter’s drop cloths, highlighting her commitment to handmade and recycled items. Michelle's artistic journey began with an art course, which profoundly impacted her creative vision, inspiring her to draw and paint. This newfound passion seamlessly integrated into her home's aesthetic and her professional endeavors. The bathroom boasts a freestanding clawfoot bathtub, contributing to the home's bohemian charm. Michelle and her children, Meg and Gabriel, often enjoy the home's verandah, where Gabriel practices the violin, adding to the serene ambiance. The dressmaker expresses a preference for older homes, appreciating their character over new constructions with thin plaster walls and aluminum windows. She particularly values the interplay of white, glass, metal, and grey wood, which creates a bright and airy feel. Her design choices lean heavily towards rustic neutrals, visible in every room, including her kitchen where even the bin has an unpolished silver patina. She notes that attempts to introduce vibrant colors through soft furnishings are often short-lived, with such items quickly finding their way to charity stores, reinforcing her dedication to a neutral palette. An old iron bed serves as a daybed on the verandah, offering a perfect spot for relaxation. Handmade curtains, crafted from vintage petticoats too delicate for clothing, adorn the kitchen's double-hung windows. Light streams through casement windows in the sleep-out area, where Michelle's workspace is filled with timber coat hangers, buttons, linen scraps, and large reams of cotton and linen in baskets, a significant departure from her previous career in a hospital setting. The article concludes by emphasizing Bangalow's appeal as a green, fresh, and visually inspiring community that perfectly complements Michelle's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. #QueenslanderHome #AllWhiteInterior #RusticNeutrals #HandcraftedDecor #BangalowNSW #HomeRenovation #CreativeLiving #VintageDecor #SustainableDesign

Multimedia artist Daniel Arsham, based in New York, lives with his family in a 1969 modernist home on Long Island designed by Norman Jaffe. Arsham's house, which he describes as "all cedar and stone," served as the inspiration for a collection of furniture pieces he initially had no intention of exhibiting. However, upon seeing these creations, Marc Benda, co-founder of Friedman Benda, recognized their potential and suggested showcasing them to the public, offering a glimpse into another facet of Arsham's artistic practice. This collaboration resulted in an installation for this year's Design Miami, where Friedman Benda presents these sculptural explorations within a fictional domestic setting, partly conceptualized as a kunstkammer. Arsham explains that the furniture pieces often incorporate shapes that deliberately contrast with the rigid lines of his modernist home. He notes that Jaffe, the architect, later introduced curves into his designs, moving away from the more angular, modernist approach of his earlier career. The furniture created by Arsham, therefore, serves as a direct counterpoint to the house's original architectural style. Notable pieces include Arsham’s Cleveland Chair I, Paris Chaise Lounge I, and Shanghai Chair. The Shanghai Chair aligns with Arsham's signature achromatic aesthetic, characteristic of his fossilized future relics. In contrast, the Cleveland Chair I and Paris Chaise Lounge I introduce a fresh formal and tonal vocabulary to his work. Many of these furniture items are crafted from canvases previously used in Arsham's studio, which are dyed in various colors. Arsham often draws notes directly onto his sculptures to indicate where erosion will be applied, and he has chosen to integrate these drawings onto the furniture objects. This creates the impression that these pieces are destined to be transformed into future sculptural cast works. The artist's Long Island environment further influences the objects displayed at Friedman Benda’s Design Miami booth. For example, Arsham’s Pasadena Sea Glass Lamp blends his concept of fictional archaeology with technological allusions, drawing from his ongoing project at NASA JPL in Pasadena. Arsham describes how finding sea glass, including fragments of text from bottles, on the beach near his home inspired this lamp. He envisioned a scenario where glass shards and components from a large piece of NASA machinery or spacecraft would eventually land and become tumbled into this object, resembling a polished piece of glass from the future. The exhibition highlights a unique dialogue between Arsham's personal living space and his artistic output, demonstrating how his domestic environment directly shapes his creative process and the forms his work takes. It offers a deeper understanding of the artist's engagement with material, form, and the interplay between past, present, and imagined futures, all through the lens of a domestic installation that blurs the lines between art, design, and personal narrative. The installation provides an opportunity for the public to experience a more intimate and unexpected dimension of Arsham’s multifaceted artistic journey, revealing the profound influence of his private residence on his public artistic statements. #DanielArsham #ModernistHome #NormanJaffe #DesignMiami #FriedmanBenda #SculpturalFurniture #DomesticInstallation #FictionalArchaeology #ArtAndDesign

This article explores Anmer Hall, the 10-bedroom Georgian country house in Norfolk, England, where Catherine, Princess of Wales, is reportedly recuperating from abdominal surgery. Part of the sprawling 20,000-acre Sandringham Estate, Anmer Hall is a significant royal residence with a rich history and notable design. The property is located in the quaint village of Anmer, a three-hour drive from London, and is a private family residence for the Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children. The history of Anmer Hall dates back to 1802 when it was built. It became part of the Sandringham Estate in 1896 when Prince Albert Edward (later Edward VII) purchased it from the Coldham family. The house features a charming brick facade made from red and brown brick, with 13 bays and dormer windows. Over the years, it underwent several renovations, including significant improvements after Edward VII's purchase. Before the current royal family, the house was leased to various members of the British aristocracy, such as the Duke and Duchess of Kent from 1972 to 1990, and Hugh van Cutsem, a close friend of King Charles III. In 2013, rumors emerged that Prince William and Kate Middleton would move into Anmer Hall. At the time, they were living in a farmhouse in Anglesey, Wales, while Prince William worked as a helicopter pilot. The move was confirmed later that year, though they physically moved in two years later, after a $2 million refurbishment. This extensive renovation included a new roof, additional trees for enhanced privacy, and significant interior improvements. The family also spent the COVID-19 lockdown at Anmer Hall, and in 2017, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry stayed there with William and Kate. For the interior design, the Prince and Princess of Wales engaged architect Charles Morris for the renovation and designer Ben Pentreath, known for his work on their Kensington Palace apartment. Pentreath's design philosophy blends inspirations from 18th and 19th-century English practitioners with a fresh, modern sensibility. Observations from social media snippets reveal Anmer Hall's interiors are characterized by high ceilings, decorative moldings, soothing neutral color palettes (though the dining room is reportedly a deep green), and accessorized with houseplants, antiques, and gilt-framed art. Kate Middleton's decision to add a second kitchen at Anmer Hall, alongside one at Kensington Palace, garnered some media attention, earning her the nickname "Three Kitchens Kate." The property also boasts amenities such as a pool, a tennis court, and even its own honeybee colony. Intriguingly, the house is also said to be haunted by a ghost, adding another layer to its historical appeal. #AnmerHall #RoyalResidence #KateMiddleton #PrinceWilliam #SandringhamEstate #GeorgianArchitecture #InteriorDesign #RoyalHistory #CountryHouse

Architect David Hicks designed Woodend house, located in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia, drawing inspiration from European vernacular architecture, particularly villas found in the French, Tuscan, and Puglian countryside. The house features a deliberate windowless facade, a design choice Hicks frequently employs to create intrigue and privacy. This approach ensures that the dwelling's interior experience is revealed only upon entry, rather than from the exterior. The single-story home was created for an older couple seeking to downsize, who had previously owned another windowless property designed by Hicks. Access to the Woodend house is gained through a wrought-iron arched gate situated on the side of the building, leading to a portico and then into an entrance vestibule. The interior walls throughout the house are rendered in micro cement and finished with limewash, imparting a stone-like texture. A vintage chandelier, made from ruched Murano glass, is a focal point in the vestibule, suspended from a circular recess in the ceiling. A central corridor extends from the vestibule, providing access to all the other rooms within the residence. Among the rooms is a 'retreat' area, functioning as a relaxed study and sitting room. This space is furnished with an Eames lounge chair, a multi-armed light fixture by French designer Serge Mouille, and a fireplace framed by a Ceppo marble surround. The same Ceppo marble is utilized for shelves within two arched display niches, adding a cohesive aesthetic element. Double doors connect the retreat to the principal bedroom, which is appointed with luxurious touches including a velvet rug, a satiny headboard, and fluted glass wall sconces. Storage solutions in the bedroom are subtly integrated behind white lacquered panels. The principal bedroom also features an en-suite bathroom where surfaces are covered in pale Calacatta marble. Large sliding glazed doors at the rear of the bathroom offer views of a small brick courtyard, which is adorned with a miniature maple tree. The main living area, a more formal space, contains white armchairs and a curved baby pink sofa, with sheer linen curtains covering French doors that open to the garden. The kitchen, integrated into this area, includes simple white cabinetry and a breakfast island topped with Calacatta marble. The home's powder room showcases extensive use of Ceppo marble, covering the walls, floor, and washbasin with its distinctive pattern. The photography for Woodend house was captured by Shannon McGrath. The project exemplifies a trend in Australian architecture for homes with striking, often unconventional, facades. Other notable examples include the Birdwood house by Peter Besley, which features a perforated screen of terracotta brick and metal mesh, and the Bangalow Road House by Son Studio, characterized by a wall of timber louvres that echo traditional wooden beach shacks. These designs collectively demonstrate a focus on unique exterior treatments that often contrast with rich and private interior spaces. #AustralianArchitecture #DavidHicks #WoodendHouse #VictoriaAustralia #WindowlessFacade #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #Marble #ResidentialArchitecture