Gigi Hadid's self-designed New York City home: Quirky or ugly?

In Pelham, New York, designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce Design embarked on a project to transform a client's home into a soft-hued, textured environment that harmonized with the stately character of the neighborhood. The client, who had already undertaken significant renovations including updating bathrooms, replacing wood flooring, and upgrading the heating system, doors, and moldings, found the decorating aspect of her home daunting. Her introduction to Enger through a mutual acquaintance led to an immediate connection and the initiation of a comprehensive design overhaul. Enger's approach centered on meticulously furnishing the home with luxurious wallcoverings and a diverse array of chic, personalized pieces tailored to the client's preferences. A significant portion of the furnishings and rugs were custom-designed, allowing for considerable creative freedom in achieving a unique aesthetic. The entryway, for instance, features a striking wallcovering from Alt for Living, providing a vibrant and welcoming first impression for guests. The living room was conceived as a comfortable lounge space, anchored by a custom chaise lounge upholstered in a subtly striped fabric from Rogers & Goffigon, perfect for relaxation and reading, illuminated by a tent lamp from Visual Comfort. In the dining room, a blush-colored wallcovering from Kneedler|Fauchère sets a warm and inviting tone. Custom mirrors introduce geometric elements, complemented by an orb lighting fixture from Bourgeis Boheme, while Rogers & Goffigon fabric elegantly frames the windows. Contrasting elements are strategically employed throughout the home, as seen with sleek, lacquered custom consoles paired with Christen Maxwell stools that introduce a metallic shimmer. The family room is a study in layered textures and soft, warm neutrals, featuring two custom sofas upholstered in Schumacher chenille and custom club chairs in Holly Hunt fabric. A custom bronze and cerused oak cocktail table serves as a central piece, and Jim Thompson Fabrics window shades add a subtle pattern. A raffia console from Made Goods contributes an unexpected texture, and the mantle surround, built-ins, and a wool-and-silk area rug are all custom-designed. Custom millwork is a hallmark of the design, with Enger and her team crafting built-ins throughout the home, including practical solutions in the mudroom. The sunroom is designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and comfortable space. Almost all its furnishings are custom, from the Holly Hunt fabric lounge chair and the wool flat weave area rug to the hexagonal lacquered linen coffee tables. Even the guest bedroom incorporates subtle patterns, with a Cisco Brothers daybed upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric. The master bedroom exudes tranquility with a textured Wolf-Gordon wallcovering. The custom bed is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, and the bedding is from Signoria Firenze. A dark, vintage sunburst mirror above the bed creates a striking contrast against the room's lighter colors, flanked by two Visual Comfort lamps on custom nightstands. A plush lounge chair at the foot of the bed offers additional comfortable seating. The home also includes custom-designed cabinetry by J. Patryce Design for an office nook, showcasing the comprehensive and personalized nature of the project. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurnishings #TexturedInteriors #Wallcoverings #PelhamNewYork #JoanEnger #JPatryceDesign

An Instagram account titled 'Please Hate These Things' has gained attention for showcasing homes with extremely unconventional and often bizarre interior designs. While many individuals turn to platforms like Instagram for home decor inspiration, this particular account offers a stark contrast by highlighting designs that are widely considered unappealing, terrifying, or absurd. The collection features a variety of design choices that challenge traditional aesthetics and raise questions about the designers' intentions. Among the examples featured is a room with oversized fish motifs adorning the walls, creating an unusual aquatic theme that deviates significantly from common interior design trends. Another prominent example includes a fireplace surrounded by a large, intimidating gargoyle, presenting a gothic and potentially unsettling focal point in a living space. The account also spotlights a kitchen where the interior surfaces appear to be covered in padded leather, an unconventional material choice for a culinary environment. Further examples of these unique and often puzzling designs include a mahogany kitchen paired with an unusual carpet, a combination that has drawn skepticism from viewers regarding its aesthetic coherence. A particularly imposing feature is a gigantic, volcanic-looking fireplace that dominates a room, suggesting a design choice focused more on dramatic impact than domestic comfort. The collection also displays a home with a red and black sofa, described as more fitting for a bar setting than a residential living room, indicating a departure from typical home furnishings. Other notable designs include a bedroom with a bed that is unusually challenging to access due to its placement or surrounding elements, and a kitchen featuring a disproportionately large, brown sink that consumes a significant portion of the countertop space. The outdoor areas are not spared from these peculiar designs either, with an image showing a swimming pool overlooked by a large, imposing bear statue, creating an unsettling atmosphere for relaxation. Additionally, one interior is characterized by a chaotic mix of patterns, which the article suggests could induce headaches due to visual overload. The account also features a bright red jacuzzi tub, which is critiqued for its color choice, suggesting that a different hue might have made it appear more elegant. A bedroom completely saturated in various shades of pink demonstrates a designer's extreme dedication to a single color palette. Finally, a rocky hot tub is likened to a set from 'The Flintstones,' highlighting its unusual and somewhat anachronistic design. These examples collectively illustrate the diverse range of unconventional and often critiqued interior design choices cataloged by the 'Please Hate These Things' Instagram account, providing a humorous and sometimes bewildering look at homes that defy conventional notions of beauty and functionality. #UglyHomes #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BizarreDesigns #InstagramTrends #ArchitecturalFailures #UnconventionalHomes #DesignCritique #HomeAesthetics

Matilda Goad, a 31-year-old designer and creative consultant, has become a prominent figure in the intersection of fashion and interiors. Her designs, characterized by eccentric flourishes, rainbow colors, scalloped edges, and cane detailing, are highly popular on platforms like Instagram, where she boasts over 62,000 followers. Goad has also established herself as a go-to homeware expert within the fashion industry, counting notable figures such as creative director Alex Eagle and designer Margherita Missoni among her admirers. Her strong connections to the fashion world are evident through her familial and social circles, including her cousin, Vogue journalist Plum Sykes, her best friend and Shrimps founder Hannah Weiland (whose 2018 wedding Goad styled), and her friend and neighbor, podcaster and author Pandora Sykes. During a tour of her recently renovated London home with her three-month-old baby, Domino, Goad emphasizes her keen attention to detail in her decorating approach. She explains that her decorating style mirrors her fashion sense, prioritizing detailing, accessories, textures, and colors. Examples of her meticulous design choices include vibrant red grout on white pantry tiles, cut-out cane diamond paneling in her bedroom wardrobes, and French bistro-style half-curtains by her breakfast table. Goad's journey into interiors was somewhat serendipitous. She began her career in fashion, working for Vogue Russia, Teen Vogue, and Wonderland magazine, and later assisting photographer and stylist Venetia Scott. Her transition to interiors occurred when she struggled to find an affordable lampshade with specific design elements. This led her to customize lampshades by adding braiding and eventually having them professionally made. This pursuit of visual perfection culminated in the launch of her eponymous brand in 2016. The brand, which initially featured a best-selling range of lampshades, has since expanded to include cutlery, napkins, planters, and other items, with prices ranging from £24 to £300. Her products are retailed at prominent stores like Liberty and Matchesfashion.com, and she also maintains a global customer base through her website. Goad is mindful of not overproducing, aiming for a concise collection where every item serves a strong purpose while also being aesthetically pleasing. In May 2019, Goad and her husband, Tom Corbett-Winder, moved into their three-story terrace house in northwest London. The renovation, which took four months, was managed by Tom's project management company. The outcome is a colorful and contemporary space that seamlessly blends practicality with style, embodying Goad's whimsical aesthetic while remaining a functional family home. The home features several clever design solutions: a reeded drawer cabinet in the sitting room, painted a vibrant betel-nut red with Beata Heuman bow handles, offers deep storage for children's toys. The denim-upholstered banquette in the kitchen incorporates hidden plug sockets and built-in storage. Japanese-style bar stools swing out from a reinforced breakfast bar to maximize space. While the design includes feminine touches, Goad ensures a balanced aesthetic by incorporating elements that add a subtle toughness, preventing the overall look from being overly sweet. For instance, her pink bedroom is balanced by scuffed wooden floorboards and a four-poster wooden bedframe, an eBay find that she personalized with blue rings using leftover tester pots. Goad draws inspiration from diverse sources, ranging from her mother's appreciation for chintz to the art of Swedish artist Hilma af Klint. She actively shares her design knowledge through her monthly newsletter, the Dispatch, where she recommends suppliers and sells vintage finds. Despite the polished appearance of her home, Goad considers it an ongoing project, constantly adding and adjusting elements, believing that a home evolves over time. She likens small changes, such as swapping a lampshade, to putting together a new outfit, emphasizing that these adjustments can refresh a room. Ultimately, she believes that the feeling a home evokes prepares one to engage with the outside world. Matilda also offers several practical tips for achieving a stylish home: repurpose luxurious fabrics for smaller impactful areas, use misspelt words or designer names in eBay searches for bargains, follow accounts like @haines_collection for affordable fabric offcuts, don't hesitate to use placeholder items until the perfect piece is found, and introduce unexpected furniture pieces into rooms to make them feel less sterile. She also recommends several antique dealers on Instagram: @oldalbion for vintage gems, @thehomebothy for decorative antiques, and @vintageonthevine for Goadesque chintzy pieces. #MatildaGoad #InteriorDesign #LondonHome #HomeDecor #FashionAndInteriors #DesignTips #ColorfulInteriors #Renovation #HomeStyling

AD100 designer Hadley Wiggins recently completed a significant project: the interior design of a stately limestone town house located on Manhattan's Upper East Side. The residence, home to a family with two young children, required a design approach that respected its historical architectural features while introducing softness, warmth, and individuality suitable for contemporary family living. When the house was acquired, it retained its original architectural details such as moldings, windows, and fireplace surrounds, but had undergone a previous renovation that resulted in a very stark, optic white aesthetic. The primary objective for Wiggins was to implement more nuanced design choices to create visual contrast and interest, thereby enhancing the inherent beauty of the existing architecture rather than overshadowing it. Wiggins's design philosophy is characterized by an intriguing interplay of subtle tones interspersed with strategically placed moments of saturated color. For example, richly hued spaces, such as the dining room—which Wiggins considers one of her favorite projects—were designed to "compress" the home's expansive layout. This technique allows for the creation of cozy and intimate areas within a large home, contrasting with the more airy, light-filled spaces. A unifying element across the diverse palette of the home is Wiggins’s meticulous curation of furnishings, art, and decorative objects, a process she undertook with the assistance of art advisor Kate Bellin. Each room is a blend of pieces from various eras, styles, and origins, reflecting Wiggins's signature approach of selecting items that resonate with her and then integrating them harmoniously into the space. This method results in a collected aesthetic, giving the impression that the homeowners have accumulated these cherished pieces over a long period. Notable elements in the design include an antique tapestry in the living room, which serves as a foundational piece for the space, complemented by an oil painting and a diverse array of lighting fixtures. Wiggins's proficiency with pattern and texture, honed during her tenure at Ralph Lauren, is evident throughout the home. She emphasizes that incorporating pattern is a complex process, involving numerous fabric choices that must meet criteria for design, durability, and client approval, ultimately leading to a rewarding outcome. This detailed attention extends even to functional areas, such as the powder room, which features a custom wood vanity and matching toilet seat, clad in a moody, cocoon-like wallpaper. Wiggins believes that a powder room's purpose transcends mere function, aiming instead to evoke a sense of the incredible. Despite the exquisite detailing and bespoke elements, Wiggins maintains that the house is fundamentally a family home. She asserts that her role is not to create a museum-like environment, but a living space capable of accommodating the realities of family life. The design is intended to evolve and age gracefully, improving over time. This distinctive blend of elegance and approachability, historical respect and modern sensibility, and deliberate specificity combined with serendipitous finds, defines Wiggins's work. She actively seeks out pieces that possess beauty due to their age and wear, striving to achieve an "imperfect perfection" in every space she designs. #HadleyWiggins #AD100Designer #NewYorkTownHouse #UnderstatedElegance #InteriorDesign #UpperEastSide #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalRenovation #FamilyHome

A-List designer David Netto embarked on a design project for a New York apartment, facing an initial challenge in defining a strong conceptual direction. The clients, who had combined two apartments in a 1929 Greenwich Village building, trusted Netto’s vision, allowing him to propose unconventional room-to-room connections for a more open, loft-like layout. The turning point arrived during a meeting when the client’s Italian name inspired Netto to create an "Italian New York apartment," not necessarily for the famous Agnelli family, but infused with their sophisticated spirit. The core concept involved radical combinations of old and new, emphasizing quality above all. This approach integrated traditional architecture with modern art, juxtaposing 18th-century antiques and silver with contemporary furniture. The client’s preference for a joyful color palette further guided the aesthetic. The project involved carefully curated objects and their unexpected pairings. For instance, the gallery features Louis XV blue and white ormolu-mounted cachepots from Emilio Terry and a cabinet from Henri Samuel, alongside chairs by Carlo Scarpa. The living room showcases a Noa mosaic coffee table by Elisabeth Garouste complementing a George III armchair from Gerald Bland. The library is anchored by an iron and leather desk inspired by Jean Michel Frank, an antique Louis XVI Fauteuil de Bureau, custom rift oak paneling, an antique rug by Katie Leede, and a sectional sofa upholstered in cinnamon-hued Claremont linen velvet. Throughout the apartment, contemporary Bonacina pieces are prominent. The finishes contribute significantly to the apartment's unique character, such as faux Iznik tiles in the kitchen backsplash, inspired by museum patterns, and a zigzag brown and white Parish Hadley floor in the music room. The dining room makes a bold statement with Zuber’s Combats des Grecs wallpaper, providing a vivid and sensual backdrop, subtly contrasted by contemporary rattan chairs by India Mahdavi. A more subtle Italian influence is observed in the higher mounting of door hardware, reminiscent of Venetian palazzos, an effect Netto previously witnessed in a theatrical New York apartment designed by Renzo Mongiardino. This detail aims to create a sensual rather than purely visual experience, encouraging an unfamiliar interaction with the space. The design process also involved defending choices, such as the use of architectural mirrors to enhance light and add glamour, which Netto argued would ultimately make walls “invisible.” The successful execution of the design is encapsulated as a recipe: a mix of art, boldness, and quality; a blend of 21st and 18th-century elements; a strong point of view; and, most importantly, a space meant for enjoyment and entertaining. This design philosophy emphasizes that successful decorating engages multiple senses beyond sight, contributing to a truly immersive and personal living environment. The article highlights the importance of client trust and a clear design concept in transforming an ordinary space into an extraordinary one, reflecting a unique blend of cultures and eras through thoughtful curation and audacious choices. #ItalianChic #NewYorkApartment #DavidNetto #InteriorDesign #EclecticStyle #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #DesignProcess #ArtAndAntiques

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.

Jules O’Carroll, co-founder of Parker & Jules, showcases her Edwardian terraced home in West London, which she affectionately calls a 'Cottage in the City.' The house, shared with her husband Dero, reflects the brand's signature use of printed textiles and wallpapers, blending timeless patterns with modern colors to create an alluring, maximalist, country-style interior. When they first purchased the property, Jules was drawn to its period charm and original features, despite its predominantly white interior. Having previously owned a very modern country house, Jules was keen to work with the architectural character of this Edwardian home to create a unique and quirky aesthetic. Rather than undertaking extensive structural renovations, Jules and Dero opted for a 'decorative overhaul.' They maintained the existing layout, focusing on enhancing the home's aesthetic appeal. Major updates included replacing the bathrooms, installing air-conditioning in the main bedrooms and sitting room, and constructing a combined pantry and utility area. A significant decorative change involved replacing the 1980s black and white hall tiles with bold, patterned tiles to better suit the property's character and inject color. The kitchen floor was hand-painted with a diamond pattern, contributing to a more unified and connected feel within the space. Jules, whose work revolves around color and pattern, felt confident in her design choices, aiming to create an environment that resonated with her personal style. The downstairs rooms feature biscuit-hued walls, serving as a warm backdrop for the vibrant color palette. Jules's design philosophy centers on mixing 'ugly and pretty colors,' incorporating a recurring palette of khaki green, lilac, and a 'granny reddy-pink' to unify the interior. The kitchen exemplifies this approach with its green cabinetry, diamond-painted floor, emerald zellige tiles, a rich brown banquette, and striking red kitchen chairs. Jules describes this space as her 'laboratory,' where she experimented with unexpected color combinations. The utility area, located in the side return, features dark purple cupboards and Parker & Jules' Strawberry Fields wallpaper and curtain fabric, creating a playful, colorful, and fun atmosphere. In the sitting room, Jules created a more sophisticated and mature space, utilizing lime paint for depth on the walls and ceiling, complemented by earthy khaki and saffron tones. A specific fabric, Claremont Tree of Life, was a key element in this design. As one moves from the larger main room to the cozier TV area, the design transitions to a more intimate 'jewel box' aesthetic. The main bedroom upstairs maintains a cozy and eclectic feel, featuring pink painted wardrobes, a Parker & Jules wallpaper, and a gold fabric by Jennifer Shorto used in reverse on the headboard. Mid-century furniture pieces are integrated to introduce a modern touch, preventing the space from feeling overly traditional. Throughout the house, a maximalist aesthetic is achieved through extensive layering of fabrics, artwork, and rugs. Jules emphasizes that this layering is crucial for making the house feel like a home, blending charming and unexpected elements with moments of grown-up sophistication. This approach ensures that the home offers elements of surprise and visual interest in every corner. Jules reflects on her design process, noting that the house allowed her to expand her color palette and incorporate beloved fabrics. She identifies her biggest indulgence as the bathroom, her greatest success as the kitchen transformation, and the patterned hall floor tiles as a small change with a big impact. Her go-to color is a 'light bronze green,' which she considers an 'ugly color' that works effectively against prettier hues. Jules defines her style as colorful, layered, and confident, and she finds inspiration in a secret address, Nushka, known for vintage textiles. #CottageDecor #MaximalistInterior #LondonHome #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #PatternMixing #EdwardianHouse #ParkerAndJules #HomeRenovation

The article presents a detailed tour of Leena Nasser's landmarked Upper West Side apartment in Manhattan, designed by Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors. Leena, a social scientist, writer, artist, and dancer, sought to create a home that truly embodies her imaginative and free-spirited personality, a concept she refers to as her ‘creative womb’. The apartment, built in 1915, initially featured builder-grade finishes but possessed significant potential with its tall ceilings, exposed bricks, and a gorgeous terrace. The collaboration between Leena and Molly began during the closing of the apartment sale, fostering a strong connection from the outset. Leena's international lifestyle, with residences in New York, London, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia, influenced the design, as she frequently sent Molly ideas gathered from her travels. The design philosophy integrated a classic New York aesthetic with Parisian influences, culminating in a space tailored to Leena's unique tastes rather than being moderated for a broader audience. Molly highlighted the freedom of designing for an individual, allowing for a celebration of her client's identity. A significant aspect of the design involved incorporating Leena's interest in the divine feminine, the female form's strength, and her nature as a dreamer. An example of this is the mural in her bedroom, which was inspired by a dream she had about a waterfall cascading over a woman, brought to life to be a daily source of inspiration. This creative synergy enabled the realization of highly personalized elements throughout the apartment. The apartment is described as a 'feminine goddess sanctuary,' with each room possessing its own distinct 'magic' and feeling like a 'jewel.' Comfort and beauty were paramount, achieved through inviting elements like sheepskin armchairs and plump sofas, creating a soft and feminine ambiance. Live-edge wood shelving and terrace foliage were incorporated to bring natural elements indoors. The bathrooms feature zellige tiles, chosen for their unique textures and ability to evoke a spa-like, escapist atmosphere. Leena's passion for Arab history, forgotten Arab queens, and various cultures and fictional worlds also played a crucial role in the design. Historical elements are thoughtfully integrated throughout the apartment. A collection of her fairy tales, framed by Ilana Lobet, creates an arresting display on the exposed brick walls of the dining area, with over 75 unique pieces. The furniture in the main living space was specifically chosen to be light and movable, accommodating Leena's love for tango dancing and large-scale painting. The project not only resulted in a personalized sanctuary but also fostered a firm friendship between the client and the designer. Molly Torres Portnof shared insights into her design choices, highlighting the joy in Leena's appreciation for the apartment. She pointed to enlarging the terrace doors as a small change with a huge impact, significantly increasing light and life within the space. Her preferred color palette includes golden mustard with deep purples and greens, and she draws inspiration from Australian designers like Tali Roth and Flack Studio. Her favorite building, the Empire State Building, even influenced her company's name, 'Designing A Tiny Empire.' She also recommended the Demolition Depot in Harlem as a hidden gem for unique finds, emphasizing her attachment to her rug collection, which she views as 'pieces of art on our floors' that tell stories. #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #ArtistHome #FeminineDesign #CustomInteriors #ExposedBrick #UpperWestSide #DATEInteriors #LeenaNasser

Ponton Interiors undertook a significant revitalization of a 1926 residence situated in Tampa’s Swann Circle Park, transforming it into a luxurious sanctuary for political strategist Anthony Pedicini. This two-story home, featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms, along with a detached two-story garage, was redesigned to seamlessly integrate contemporary functionality with its inherent historical character. The renovation successfully preserved original architectural details, including exposed brick walls and a fireplace in the sunroom, which had survived previous modifications that introduced multiple layers of paint, stucco, and wallpaper. The interior design draws inspiration from the Art Deco era, employing a sophisticated palette dominated by deep green, accentuated with gold, and enriched by dark wood tones. Notable design elements include striking stained glass windows, complemented by brass and crystal light fixtures that enhance the glamorous aesthetic. The kitchen is equipped with a gloss black Aga range, serving as a focal point. The sunroom offers picturesque views of Swann Circle Park, while the kitchen itself underwent a substantial redesign aimed at improving both its symmetry and overall visual appeal, creating a space that is both beautiful and highly functional. Throughout the project, Ponton Interiors demonstrated adept problem-solving, overcoming various design and structural challenges. The result is a home that distinctly evokes the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, harmoniously blended with Tampa’s rich historical essence. A core objective of the renovation was to create an environment perfectly suited for entertaining, achieved through careful preservation of original features while simultaneously updating the layout and enhancing the bathrooms within existing spatial constraints. Specific design details contribute to the home's unique character. For example, a bathroom features bold flamingo-themed wallpaper, a custom vanity paint-matched to the theme, a black marble countertop with pink and white streaks, and hexagonal Tilebar Blonde Indigo Blue Foliage tiles on the floor, creating an eclectic and playful space. The dining room employs layers and drama through textured fabrics, tufted banquette seating, and custom Vanguard dining chairs with cut velvet and nailhead detailing. The kitchen’s brick details were preserved, paired with Cambria quartz countertops featuring waterfall edges, a geometric marble mosaic floor, and a custom hood with brass inlay. A custom-designed sectional adorned with cut velvet accent pillows from Schumacher, Kravet, and Lillian August provides comfortable seating. The original wood flooring was refinished and stained, and an under-stair closet was ingeniously converted into a fully functional wine storage area, complete with a mosaic marble floor and a peg display. Restored stairs feature a plush plaid runner for both aesthetic appeal and practicality for the owners' dogs. A powder bath showcases forest green millwork, textured leaves on Arte wallpaper, and a vintage console-inspired sink by Signature Hardware. Another room features whimsical pillows and blue textured Arte wallpaper behind the headboard, alongside soft, patterned curtains from Romo Fabrics. The residence now stands as a meticulously curated masterpiece, balancing bold design choices with practical living spaces, tailored to the homeowner’s lifestyle and principles of historical preservation. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #GatsbyGlam #ArtDeco #HistoricPreservation #TampaHomes #LuxuryInteriors #RenovationProject #PontonInteriors

Homepolish designer Tali Roth offers practical advice for renters looking to personalize their temporary living spaces, emphasizing that a rental unit's potential should not be wasted due to its temporary nature. She asserts that individuals often reside in rentals longer than anticipated, making it essential to create a comfortable and personalized environment rather than living in a state of limbo. Roth's own Chelsea loft serves as a prime example of how to infuse personal style into a rental without undertaking extensive, permanent renovations that could jeopardize a security deposit. Roth suggests focusing on easily modifiable elements within a rental. Lighting and window treatments are identified as key areas for impactful changes. For instance, an existing, generic light fixture can be replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing one. In her dining room, Roth replaced an IKEA light with a Synapse chandelier by Apparatus Studio, which helped to make the space feel cozier by lowering the ceiling's visual height. For those hesitant to alter existing wiring, sculptural wall lamps that plug into outlets and can be mounted high are presented as a viable alternative. Installing blinds and full-length curtains is also recommended to add warmth, texture, and privacy, with Roth opting for gray Belgian flax linen curtains to complement her home's modern color scheme. The article highlights Roth's innovative approach to customizing furniture, particularly her collaboration with Semihandmade to transform standard IKEA cabinet systems. Through this, she added custom taupe doors, a counter, and brass hardware to her units, demonstrating how affordable, modular furniture can be elevated to appear bespoke. One of the most significant transformations in Roth's loft was the application of faux concrete to a large wall by i faux. This technique was used to address the challenge of vast, white rental walls, adding significant texture and depth to prevent the space from feeling like a stark, empty box. Roth's design philosophy embraces geometric patterns and chunky forms, which she refers to as a "Flintstones aesthetic," influenced by her appreciation for modernism. This theme is consistently applied throughout her home, evident in sculptural vases, Hubble Wall Sconces by Pietro Russo for Baxter in the living room, and terrazzo wallpaper in the bathroom. While Roth chose traditional wallpaper, the article also suggests removable wallpaper options for renters seeking less commitment. The process of designing each rental space is also presented as a learning opportunity, allowing individuals to refine their tastes and understand what works best for their lifestyle, including considerations for living with young children. Roth shares a personal insight regarding her velvet couch, noting that its susceptibility to watermarks might lead her to choose a different material in future rentals, at least until her son is older. Ultimately, Roth emphasizes that customizing a rental is a common practice, particularly in cities like New York, where landlords generally expect tenants to personalize their living spaces. She reassures renters that most lease agreements simply require the unit to be returned to its original state, detailing her plans to reverse her changes, such as reinstalling the original light fixture, deconstructing the faux concrete, removing wallpaper, and repainting walls white, before moving out. #RentalDesign #LoftLiving #InteriorDecor #HomepolishDesigner #TaliRoth #DIYDecor #ApartmentRenovation #ModernAesthetic #IKEAHacks

Gala Magriñá, an interior designer, shares her journey from film and television studies at New York University to founding her eponymous design firm in 2018. Initially, Magriñá worked for Diesel, creating window and in-store displays, and later launched her own production agency, orchestrating events for high-profile companies. A pivotal moment in her career was the discovery of Vedic meditation, which led her to redefine her professional purpose and shift from temporary event spaces to permanent interiors. This newfound passion for mindfulness became a cornerstone of her design philosophy, aiming to create spaces that merge aesthetic appeal with holistic well-being. Her Westchester, New York-based firm, which is women-led, undertakes both commercial and residential projects globally. Magriñá's design approach focuses on balancing diverse elements to create environments that inspire and uplift the energy of their occupants. She values the support and guidance of her mentors and fellow interior designers, often collaborating and seeking feedback to enrich her creative process. Despite a demanding schedule, she prioritizes meditation to maintain her well-being and productivity, especially when feeling fatigued in the afternoon. In her "Friday Five" feature, Magriñá identifies five key sources of inspiration. Travel is her primary muse; she finds visiting diverse cities like Rishikesh, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Tokyo particularly transformative. She enjoys planning visits to museums, stores, and restaurants in new cities but also embraces spontaneity, allowing herself to wander and discover hidden gems. Art and objects are another significant source of inspiration. She frequently attends art and design fairs, such as Art Basel and Design Miami, documenting ideas for future projects. These outings, often shared with designer friends, serve as essential breaks from routine work, fostering creativity and camaraderie. Interior architectural and design details consistently capture her attention. Magriñá often photographs elements like door handles and moldings, particularly noting European design for its simple yet modern aesthetics, which she integrates into her projects in the United States. Nature provides another profound source of inspiration and peace. Daily walks in the park, regardless of weather, help her find mental clarity and generate new ideas, as the vastness of nature helps put her problems into perspective. Finally, her hometown, New York City, remains a constant wellspring of creativity. The city's energy, people, fashion, and architecture, from the bustling streets to the iconic Chrysler Building, continually stimulate her imagination. She resonates with artist Marina Abramovic's sentiment that Manhattan's bedrock amplifies its energy, a feeling Magriñá experiences every time she steps into the city. The article also showcases several projects by Gala Magriñá Design, illustrating her aesthetic. The Design Studio Office in Long Island City, a 4,000-square-foot headquarters for a creative agency, blends mid-century modern with industrial flair, featuring hybrid meeting rooms and collaborative spaces tailored for a post-COVID work environment. The Irvington, NY Residence involved transforming a 1929 colonial-style home by preserving original details, using soothing off-white palettes, and incorporating pops of color through furniture, abstract art, and curated accessories. The West 67th Street Apartment, a two-bedroom unit with New York City views, underwent a full remodel emphasizing soft tones, natural woods, and textures to create a "sanctuary" feel, with notable features like a dark blue grasscloth wallpaper in the primary bedroom. The Postlight 5th Avenue Office was reimagined as a Soho House-inspired space, featuring curated lounge areas, custom wallpaper, and a 24-foot TV wall, designed for both employees and clients. Lastly, the Yousician NYC Office, located in a loft-style building in the Meatpacking district, incorporates the company's signature green, converting a space into a music-inspired hangout room with a bar and record player, embracing a "resimercial" concept for a fun and informal setting. #InteriorDesign #GalaMagrina #DesignInspiration #NewYorkCity #MindfulDesign #CommercialDesign #ResidentialDesign #TravelInspiration #ArtAndDesign

This article highlights the interior design choices made by Rachel and Adam Jones, a creative couple residing in a 650-square-foot Clinton Hill brownstone apartment. Despite being renters, they have actively personalized their living space over three years, focusing on paring down possessions and making strategic improvements. Their approach to interior design combines simplicity with unique flea market finds, resulting in a cozy and thoughtfully curated home. Key design modifications include painting their Victorian claw foot tub for a more polished look and whitewashing the brick chimney breast in the bedroom after some experimentation. A small kitchen nook has been updated with chalkboard paint, adding a functional and aesthetic touch to the compact space. The couple's furniture selection is minimal but impactful, featuring carefully chosen treasures found at Brooklyn flea markets, such as an Art Deco armoire and an antique bar table. The living room is designed to maximize both comfort and space. A built-in wooden bench provides additional seating and offers a view of the street outside. Other notable pieces in the living room include a yellow velvet chair and wooden crates, also sourced from local flea markets, which contribute to the apartment's rustic yet refined aesthetic. The use of dark walls in the kitchen provides a striking contrast to the brighter areas of the home, demonstrating an unconventional yet effective design choice. Despite the apartment's modest size, the couple's deliberate strategy of owning fewer knick-knacks and furniture pieces helps create a sense of openness and prevents the space from feeling cluttered. This conscious decluttering contributes to the apartment feeling larger and more airy than its actual square footage might suggest. The overall design ethos reflects a blend of practicality, personal style, and resourcefulness, transforming a rented space into a distinctive and inviting home. #ClintonHill #ApartmentDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #FleaMarketFinds #InteriorRenovation #BrooklynHomes #RentalDecor #RusticModern #HomeStyling

Lauren Wesley Designs, an Atlanta-based interior design firm founded by Ebonee Clark and Jameelah Watkins, both featured on HGTV's "Married to Real Estate," has transformed a fashion model's historic Roswell loft into a distinctive work of art. The designers aimed to create a bold, passionate, yet comfortable and welcoming space that reflects the client's personality and style. Their approach eschewed monochrome trends, embracing a colorful boho aesthetic characterized by natural elements and striking statement pieces. The designers emphasized the transformative power of wallpaper, noting that modern options offer unique ways to add interest, texture, and artistry to a home, with the added benefit of being removable for versatility. They highlighted that contemporary wallpaper is far removed from its traditional, often dated, perception. A key aspect of the design involved leveraging the loft's architectural features, particularly its breathtaking windows. The designers sought to integrate the outdoors, creating a seamless flow between the interior and the natural environment. A standout space in the home is the "content room," which features large black panel windows providing abundant natural light. This room was specifically designed to serve as a perfect backdrop for fashion hauls and content creation. The application of palm leaf wallpaper throughout this room adds a unique touch, complementing a blush sofa and a beaded blue chandelier, thereby contributing to the room's overall aesthetic and functionality. Ebonee Clark and Jameelah Watkins underscore the importance of taking risks in interior design. They believe that apprehension about selecting bold wallpaper or non-traditional upholstery colors can limit creativity. Instead, they encourage clients and aspiring designers to be adventurous in their choices, asserting that design should be inspiring and enjoyable. This philosophy is central to their work, enabling them to craft spaces that are not only visually appealing but also deeply personal to their clients. Beyond merely beautifying homes, Lauren Wesley Designs aims to inspire their clients to embrace a lifestyle that celebrates individuality and personal well-being. They view their role as interior designers as an opportunity to connect with clients on a deeper level, transforming living spaces into reflections of who their clients are and aspire to be. This holistic approach to design fosters environments that are vibrant, authentic, and conducive to a fulfilling life, moving beyond mere aesthetics to create meaningful and inspiring personal sanctuaries. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AtlantaDesign #HGTV #RoswellLoft #BohoStyle #WallpaperTrends #LaurenWesleyDesigns

Hailey Bieber, in collaboration with Maison Trouvaille’s Erick Garcia, undertook the transformation of Rhode’s Beverly Hills office from a traditionally masculine space into an embodiment of the "clean girl" aesthetic. The initial office featured heavy woods, dark leather, and large furniture, a stark contrast to Bieber's vision of a calming, relaxed, and vibrant environment that reflects the Rhode brand's identity. The design process began with a pivotal observation: Bieber's use of a Rhode lip tint. This inspired the installation of an elaborate, wall-spanning bronze mirror at the elevator's entrance. The mirror serves both an aesthetic and functional purpose, allowing visitors and employees to check their appearance and capture content, aligning with the needs of a beauty brand. Its earth-toned color subtly references Rhode's popular Espresso lip tint, reinforcing brand consistency. Bieber envisioned Rhode as a lifestyle brand centered on easygoing essentials. This philosophy extended to the office's interior, drawing inspiration from classic '90s sweatsuits, particularly the "true Russell Athletics gray." Consequently, a heather gray, a color also featured in many Rhode product containers, became a predominant shade throughout the space. This choice reinforces the brand's aesthetic of sporty cool and on-the-go functionality. A key influence on the office's design was Bieber's fascination with rituals and routines, particularly how they foster a sense of calm. She applied this concept from her personal skincare routine to architectural elements. Her own Beverly Hills bathroom, described as a safe and cozy space, served as a primary inspiration. This led to an office environment that evokes the tranquility of a spa. The interiors feature walls covered with limewash from Portola Paint, complemented by white boucle furniture. Sparse shelves are artfully arranged with Rhode skincare products, contributing to the minimalist and clean aesthetic. Despite the serene setting, Bieber noted that her employees maintain a stylish presence, often opting for business casual attire such as boxy blazers and suits, demonstrating a seamless integration of personal style with the professional environment. The office's overall design successfully translates the essence of the Rhode brand and Bieber's personal aesthetic into a functional and inviting workspace. #HaileyBieber #RhodeOffice #InteriorDesign #CleanGirlAesthetic #MaisonTrouvaille #ErickGarcia #BeverlyHills #BeautyBrand #MinimalistDesign

Gilles Mendel, CEO of J. Mendel, a renowned fashion house specializing in furs and red-carpet gowns, offers a glimpse into his Manhattan duplex near Central Park. The article highlights the designer's personal sanctuary, which serves as a contrasting backdrop to his dynamic professional life, blending functionality with sophisticated aesthetics. Despite his career in high fashion, Mendel's home frequently transforms into a "soundstage" where he, along with his teenage children, Chloe and Sacha, enjoys playing rock music, showcasing a blend of elegant living with a vibrant, family-oriented lifestyle. The duplex, meticulously designed by Mendel's friend, interior designer Alan Tanksley, reflects a deliberate balance between modern glamour and earthy elements. While Mendel's fashion creations are often characterized by their luxurious furs and sleek lines, his home design principles lean towards a tailored and pared-down environment. The apartment's interior features shiny surfaces and mirrored walls reminiscent of 1970s glamour, a period Mendel particularly admires, often drawing comparisons to fashion icons like Halston. These contemporary features are harmoniously contrasted with more traditional art pieces, such as a Picasso lithograph and a vintage African-style ceramic mask, creating a visually rich yet uncluttered space. Mendel's design philosophy for his home signifies a departure from his previously cherished collection of Art Deco furniture and Paris flea-market finds. He decided to store these treasures for his children, marking a conscious move towards a new, forward-thinking aesthetic for his current residence. This decision underscores his belief in evolving personal style and creating an environment that reflects his current sensibilities. His children, Chloe and Sacha, represent the potential sixth generation to lead the J. Mendel family business, which was founded in 1870 by Joseph Breitman. Key influences in Mendel's home design include the Far East and the 1970s. The apartment masterfully synthesizes these diverse worlds, incorporating elements like Forbidden City scarlet hues, high-gloss black floors, mirrored walls, and flashes of chrome and nickel. Another significant influence is the work of Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, known for his ability to make heavy materials appear weightless. This inspiration is evident in the dining room, which features a Saarinen Tulip table with a black marble top, surrounded by inky walls displaying black-and-white photographs by Nereo and Günter Siever. Mendel draws parallels between Saarinen's innovative use of materials and his own approach to working with fur, transforming it into a versatile fabric that challenges traditional perceptions. Throughout the apartment, luxurious textures and subtle details reinforce Mendel's signature style. The living room, an almond-pale space, is furnished with an oversized sofa on a mirrored base, complemented by pillows of nougat-beige mink and a shaggy white Mongolian lamb floor cushion. A Vladimir Kagan armchair, upholstered in jet-black pony hide, adds a touch of bold elegance. The master bedroom offers a deliberate contrast with its blood-orange walls, ebonized wood floor, and a striking zebra rug, designed to evoke an Asian ambiance that Mendel finds deeply personal and transportive. Despite the seemingly minimalist approach, Mendel infuses warmth and comfort with elements like a chinchilla blanket, ensuring the space remains inviting and functional. #CelebrityHome #InteriorDesign #FashionDesigner #ManhattanApartment #LuxuryLiving #ModernGlamour #ArtAndDesign #FashionForward #ElegantInteriors