This Fairfax home mixes rich colors with classic designs for a extravagant look

This blog post features a unique custom-built home located at 3482 Flamingo Ave. on Siesta Key, currently on the market for $5.8 million. Completed in 2019, the residence seamlessly blends Old World architectural elements with modern design aesthetics. The owner, Gary McDermott, who had no prior experience in architecture or home design, custom-built the four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom house with personal touches that also appeal to a broader market. McDermott is selling the home due to a relocation to Raleigh for work. The exterior of the home showcases more than 24 feet of hand-carved Cantera stone framing the double front doors, which are 10-foot-tall mahogany. These carvings include frangipani, his wife’s favorite flower, and a flamingo, a nod to the home's address. Wall-climbing vines and a water fountain contribute to a regal entrance, while wrought-iron balconies overlook a Roman-style pool. The property sits on an acre of land on the north end of Siesta Key and includes a three-car garage. Inside the 4,152 square-foot residence, the fusion of styles continues. An interior courtyard houses a 45-foot lap pool, surrounded by stone pillars. This five-foot-deep pool not only serves as a focal point but also functions to cool the house, reportedly lowering the temperature by 10-15 degrees and creating a natural draft. The pool area also offers views of a large backyard and canal access to Sarasota Bay. McDermott sourced the hand-carved stone from Mexico, emphasizing his preference for Old World styles while maintaining a clean, modern look. The interior features extensive tiling throughout, with traditional furniture pieces and light fixtures complementing updated bathroom and kitchen cabinetry. The kitchen boasts blue azul granite countertops, a material also used around the pool. The owner noted that delays in finding specific tiles provided ample time to refine their vision for the home. A notable amenity for contemporary living is a one-bedroom, one-bathroom guest house equipped with a full kitchen and a luxury office, catering to remote workers. Looking ahead, the roof was intended for further development, with plans for a greenhouse, a day bed, a putting green, and a bocce ball court, adorned with cacti and bromeliads. These future projects are now available for the next homeowner to undertake. Steve Abbe of the Abbe Ross Team with Coldwell Banker Realty in Florida is the contact for inquiries regarding the property. #SiestaKey #CustomHome #LuxuryRealEstate #MediterraneanArchitecture #OldWorldDesign #ModernDesign #SarasotaHomes #HomeForSale #ArchitecturalFeatures

Chris and Jenn Goode purchased their 1960s home in Alexandria's Villamay neighborhood primarily for its Potomac River views, despite its traditional style, dated finishes, limited lighting, and insufficient space for their three growing children, aged 9, 11, and 14. Their vision for the renovation was to transform the house into a spacious, rustic-chic sanctuary that offered enough individual space for every family member. Case Architects & Remodelers, led by director of project development April Case Underwood, was enlisted for the remodel. Underwood, having previously worked with the Goodes on their kitchen, understood their preference for a more transitional style. The original home was deemed outdated and lacked cohesion, especially for entertaining guests or accommodating three children preparing for school with only one shared bathroom. The renovation aimed to address these issues by expanding the living areas and updating the aesthetics to better suit the family's needs and style. A significant part of the renovation involved adding a two-story extension to the front of the house. This addition created a new primary bedroom suite for Chris and Jenn, which included dedicated his-and-her closets and a five-piece bathroom. The Goodes' daughter subsequently moved into the original primary suite. To accommodate their two sons, a one-story addition was built at the back of the home, featuring a new bedroom equipped with a Jack-and-Jill-style bathroom and walk-in closets. Additionally, a home gym with a rubberized floor was installed in the third garage bay at the base of the front addition. Indoor renovations were further complemented by the inclusion of a pocket office with a sliding glass door and a butler's pantry, which was outfitted with wall cabinets, open shelves, and wine fridges, enhancing both functionality and storage within the home. Although the kitchen's layout, counters, and backsplash from a previous renovation remained unchanged, the area received a refresh with new gold accents and a new faucet. A unique and personalized addition to the kitchen was a custom dog station for the family's goldendoodle, Dewey. This innovative feature, inspired by Jenn's mother, replaced a seldom-used cookbook bookcase. The dog station was designed for practicality and aesthetics, featuring a tiled area with built-in bowls, and a cabinet nearby for storing Dewey's food, treats, and medication. Its proximity to the kitchen sink allowed for the installation of a pot filler, simplifying the process of refilling water bowls. The exterior of the house underwent a dramatic transformation to align with the interior's rustic-chic design and the surrounding landscape. The original brick exterior was painted blue, and new shutters and wooden brackets were installed. Stone accents were added around the new garage bay to introduce texture. The renovation also incorporated a new front porch and a gable, contributing to a true Craftsman-style aesthetic. The Goodes praised the effective communication with Case Underwood, noting weekly meetings over several months that allowed for detailed planning and adjustments, ultimately bringing their vision to life. The cohesive design throughout the entire house made it feel like a brand-new home, satisfying the family's desire for a perfect, spacious living environment, and even attracting attention from passersby who stop to admire the renovation. #HomeRemodel #FairfaxCounty #CaseArchitectsRemodelers #RusticChic #HomeExpansion #InteriorDesign #ExteriorRenovation #FamilyHome

The concept of updating home decor with the changing seasons, much like fashion, is explored. The article highlights that seasonal fabrics and styles are not exclusive to runways but can also influence home aesthetics. Betsy Chapin, a college professor, exemplifies this trend by changing decorative elements in her North Wilmington townhouse five times a year to achieve a fresh, seasonal look. She focuses on easily interchangeable items such as area rugs, accessories, table centerpieces, throw pillows, candles, and dried or silk flowers, considering it an inexpensive method to refresh her living environment and create a warm, welcoming, and comforting mood tailored to different times of the year. The historical precedent for this practice is noted with Henry Francis du Pont, who, as often as four times a year, would change curtains, rugs, and slipcovers in his Winterthur mansion to suit the seasons, sometimes even altering ceramics. Linda Eaton, curator of textiles for Winterthur Museum & Country Estate, explains that du Pont's changes were about balancing colors and adapting items for appropriateness in different seasons. For instance, in the Chinese Parlor, he used green satin drapes with white floral sprigs for winter, dark green damask with blue trim for spring, tamboured mulls with yellow taffeta valances for summer, and yellow taffeta valances and curtains for fall. The article details both the practical and decorative reasons behind seasonal home decor changes. Heavy drapes in winter help reduce drafts and create a cozier atmosphere, while lightweight curtains in warmer months allow for better airflow and natural light. Crisp, breathable fabrics are preferred for summer, and unadorned floors are cooler than heavy wool rugs. Additionally, rotating items seasonally can extend their lifespan, as noted by Meredith Graves, a stylist and co-owner of Found, a shop specializing in antiques and home accessories. Graves mentions that taking up rugs seasonally allows for thorough cleaning and maintenance. The cost-effectiveness of this approach is emphasized, with Chapin finding affordable decor items at craft stores like Michael’s, where she buys silk flowers and glass jars to fill with seasonal elements such as shells for summer or pine cones for fall. Graves suggests grouping accessories, like a gleaming mahogany box with paperweights and pheasant feathers for fall and winter, or sterling silver nut dishes near a seascape painting for summer. She also advises changing candle colors and sizes to match the season. Traditionally, seasonal decor changes involve textiles. Du Pont, for example, reportedly changed his drapes to complement the outdoor views. The article mentions the Port Royal Parlor, which had white cotton curtains with a purple print in summer, 18th-century yellow damask in fall, green-and-gold floral silk in January, and Regency yellow silk damask in spring. While full curtain and slipcover changes can be costly for most, the article suggests more accessible alternatives like inexpensive covers for dining chairs or using throw pillows and area rugs, as Chapin does, often sourcing them from stores like Kohl's. For fall, tapestry or needlepoint pillows are recommended, used sparingly. Cottons and stripes are suitable for summer, while mohair, wool, or cashmere throws add luxury and warmth for cooler nights. The concept extends to bathrooms, with seasonal towel changes, and bedrooms, where summer matelassé can be replaced with darker colors and silks for fall, along with storing and unfurling seasonal rugs. The goal is to make every room feel magical and inviting through these seasonal adjustments. Specific fall fashion tips for home decor are provided, including incorporating burnished oranges, rich reds, golds, and browns, or deeper hues of existing color schemes. Emphasis is placed on texture, favoring warm fabrics like brushed velvet, cashmere, and wool over summer cottons. Suggestions include exchanging a bowl of seashells for fruit, nuts, or pine cones, using more opulent placemats and napkins, and switching to thicker, heavier candles. Even kitchens can embrace the season with themed area rugs, mitts, and dish towels, allowing for a touch of whimsy with items like smiling pumpkins. Finally, changing door wreaths from summer grapevines to pine cones or autumn leaves for winter is recommended. #HomeDecor #SeasonalDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDecor #HomeAccessories #DelawareHomes #WinterthurMuseum #FashionForwardHome #FallDecor

Color drenching, a design technique that involves bathing an entire room in a single color or color scheme, has been a prominent style in homes since the early 2000s. This method can create a monochromatic look or utilize similar hues within one color palette, with results varying from elegant to potentially overwhelming depending on the execution. Interior designer @houseofbrinson showcased a recent application of this trend in a historic home renovation, specifically in a bedroom setting. The designer used terracotta hues for the main bedroom, while an adjacent nook was painted in a muted green, creating a contrasting yet harmonious effect. This approach was described by one commenter as making the nook appear like 'a jewel sitting in the jewelry box.' Despite the initial surprise many might feel about using a pinkish-brown color in a historic home, the overall aesthetic of the room received significant positive feedback. Comments highlighted the unexpected beauty and masterful execution of the design, with users noting its 'gorgeous' and 'phenomenally executed' qualities, creating a space that is 'cozy yet elegant and fresh.' This particular project demonstrates that color drenching, when thoughtfully applied, can successfully blend modern design sensibilities with historical architecture, transcending conventional expectations for period homes. The enduring presence of color drenching in interior design suggests its timeless appeal, as evidenced by its historical roots and continuous adaptation to contemporary tastes. The introduction of modern elements, such as the contrasting green room in the showcased project, helps to maintain the trend's freshness and relevance. Furthermore, experts suggest that well-executed color drenching can potentially enhance a home's value. When considering implementing this trend, it is crucial to research expert advice on color selection and application to ensure a cohesive and appealing outcome. Personal anecdotes, such as painting a living room black and offsetting it with dark gray recliners, illustrate how individual preferences and specific spatial considerations can influence the trend's application. While largely praised, color drenching is not without its critics. Some individuals find the technique overwhelming for a space, or express concerns about color connectivity. However, the designer's response to such criticisms, emphasizing personal preference, underscores a fundamental principle of interior design: the ultimate satisfaction of the homeowner. As long as the residents appreciate the result, external opinions hold less weight. This reinforces the idea that design choices, especially those as bold as color drenching, are deeply personal and should prioritize the comfort and aesthetic enjoyment of those living in the space. #ColorDrenching #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #ModernUpdate #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends #ColorPalette #TikTokDesign #HomeValue

The Houston Estate project, located in a lush Houston neighborhood, exemplifies a seamless integration of traditional and modern design elements, creating a distinctive aesthetic that also showcases the client’s art collection. The entryway sets a grand tone with oversized custom steel doors and plaster walls, a recurring design feature throughout the home. A custom staircase, eclectic artwork, and a floral sofa contribute to a bold, inviting atmosphere, complemented by reclaimed octagon and dot tile from Italy, adding warmth and historical character. The formal dining room features grasscloth wallpaper matching the wood trim, producing a dramatic effect. Each furniture piece in this room is a statement, including a solid travertine table seating eight in velvet barrel-back chairs, and a custom console with a carved wave design. A personalized cupboard was also built to display the client’s china collection. In contrast, the formal living room opts for intricate millwork instead of grasscloth, presenting a color-drenched space where walls, ceiling, and drapes share the same hue, creating a sophisticated and dramatic ambiance. Furniture groupings in this room are arranged around a central fireplace, optimizing both aesthetics and functionality. The kitchen is a custom-designed space, rich with marble and tailored to the height of the homeowner, former MLB player Jason Castro. Details such as a bullnosed countertop profile, bookmatched backsplash, integrated marble sink, and hand-painted plug-in covers reflect meticulous craftsmanship. Oak cabinetry and a black Lacanche range complete the culinary area. The adjacent pantry is notable for its abundant natural light, dark blue cabinetry, soapstone countertops, and brass hardware, creating a moody yet stylish storage solution. An oversized vintage rug adds texture and patina. A casual breakfast nook, located off the kitchen, features a light fixture that harmonizes brass and darker metals, linking it with the kitchen's design. Seating includes comfortable, durable chairs with leather seats and plaid upholstered backs, chosen for a family with young children. Artwork by Tyler Guinn and a Heath Oak Cabinet from McGee & Co. enhance the space. The family room, a more relaxed gathering area, incorporates pieces from Round Top, Texas, and a vintage rug that informs the room's color palette. A curved-back sectional with crypton fabric offers durability, while the fireplace, with its fluted front, curved sides, and reclaimed fire brick, is a focal point. Styled built-ins provide display space for collectibles. The primary suite is designed as a serene retreat with a vaulted ceiling and a fireplace. Its neutral palette of browns, greens, creams, and moody blues is layered with custom millwork and relaxed drapes matching the wall color. Abstract artwork by Kimberly Moore is intentionally scaled smaller above the bed. The primary bathroom features unique elements such as a mixed metal vanity and plaster walls and ceilings between wood beams. The guest bedroom offers a calm and serene environment with ample natural light from windows on two sides. It is furnished with McGee & Co.'s Sutherland Bed and luxurious bedding. The ensuite bathroom features contrast trim derived from the wallpaper and a Calcutta marble-topped vanity. The study is dedicated to displaying the homeowner's baseball memorabilia, including Jason Castro's MLB career mementos and a World Series trophy. A herringbone wood floor with a brass inlay defines the room. The playroom features a distinctive wallpapered ceiling and various nooks for children's activities, including a firepole leading to a netted loft and built-in shelving for toys and books. The girls' room is characterized by a bold wallpaper dictating a soft pink contrast trim, layering pattern on pattern for a playful effect. The ensuite bathroom extends the trim color to the walls for cohesion, and an arched shower entry creates an artistic focal point. The boys' room utilizes a dramatic, high-contrast paint color derived from the upholstered headboard, which is complemented by a display of baseball hats as art. Its ensuite bathroom has subway tile throughout and a strategically placed vanity and mirror in front of a window. In the nursery, design elements such as wallpaper with contrast trim and a paneled ceiling are echoed from other areas of the home. The crib is positioned as the focal point for both aesthetic and practical reasons. The laundry room is designed to be a pleasant space, featuring wallpaper, patterned floors, and soft-colored cabinetry. A bold floral pattern is mixed with a geometric one, unified by a cohesive color palette. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TraditionalModernMix #HoustonEstate #FamilyHomeDesign #CustomInteriors #LuxuryDesign #ResidentialDesign #RoombyRoomDesign