camarim arquitetos restores lisbon house with decorative facade of patterned tiles

Jai Alfama, a 17th-century residence located in Lisbon, Portugal's historic Alfama neighborhood, is currently on the market for approximately $3.78 million USD. This unique property, spanning 4,574 square feet, features four bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering a blend of historical charm and modern updates. The home is renowned for its original 17th-century frescoes and intricate tin-glazed azulejos, which are ceramic tiles characteristic of Portuguese art. The property boasts high ceilings and offers unparalleled views of the Tagus River from its reception rooms. On the opposite side, windows overlook the charming Sao Pedro Tower square, complete with a fountain and an orange tree, providing a picturesque urban outlook. The iconic building has undergone a renovation that carefully preserves its historical elements while integrating contemporary design. Original wooden beams are maintained throughout the structure, contributing to its authentic character. A significant feature of the renovation is the handcrafted wood-and-metal modern staircase. This contemporary addition is designed to create a sense of floating space, serving as a striking contrast to and an enhancement of the ancient 17th-century frescoes. The walls are adorned with stucco work by a renowned Chilean artist, further enriching the artistic ambiance of the interior. Solid French oak floors are installed throughout, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. The home’s interior details include well-preserved frescoes lining the hallway that connects the upper-level bedrooms, showcasing the artistry of the period. One of the bathrooms features mirrored walls and an oversized soaking tub, providing a luxurious modern amenity within the historic setting. The combination of exposed beams and French oak floors consistently reinforces the warm and welcoming aesthetic envisioned for the space. Jai Alfama is presented as a distinctive property that successfully marries its rich historical past with the comforts and design sensibilities of the present. It offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Lisbon's architectural heritage, updated for contemporary living, making it suitable for those seeking a unique residence with profound cultural and artistic significance. The listing is handled by Carlota Barroso of Fantastic Frank. #LisbonRealEstate #HistoricHome #17thCenturyArchitecture #PortugueseDesign #LuxuryApartment #FrescoArt #Azulejos #ModernRenovation #Alfama

DepA Architects, a Porto-based firm, has undertaken the renovation and extension of a traditional Portuguese home situated in the northern district of Porto. The project aimed to optimize the home's previously compartmentalized floor plan and integrate a new extension around two distinct gardens. The design approach focused on referencing the original structure's aesthetic, particularly its decorative tiled facade framed by green concrete panels, while introducing a contemporary sensibility. The exterior of the two-storey residence now features an exposed concrete and sage-green tiled facade. This choice of material and color palette was deliberate, drawing inspiration from the existing building and ensuring harmony with the surrounding typical Portuguese architecture. The studio incorporated sage green tiles for the primary facade, complemented by exposed concrete beams that define the entrance of a newly added garage. The architects emphasized the preservation of the building's historical identity, seeking to maximize the plot's potential by retaining the main structure and adding a new volume at the rear, oriented inward towards the two patios. The initial state of the property included several disjointed annexes, which resulted in a floor plan with many small rooms lacking natural light. DepA Architects addressed this by opening up the interior spaces, creating a more fluid and flexible layout. The garden was subsequently divided into two courtyards, with the new extension facilitating this reorientation. A central idea behind the renovation was to leverage the long and deep plot, maintaining the original house while introducing a new volume in the backyard. This strategy led to the creation of elongated spaces that organize a pathway from the entrance, fostering an open plan that enhances the connection between interior spaces and with the exterior patios. The interior design continues the material and color themes established on the exterior. The ground floor now accommodates a two-car garage, a kitchen, open-plan dining and living areas, a study, and a bathroom. A long corridor spans from the front garage area to the living spaces at the rear, occupying what were previously separate annexes. Ochre-hued concrete was applied to the floors throughout the ground level, while board-marked concrete covers the walls and ceilings, contributing to a unified aesthetic across the largely open-plan interior. Portuguese chestnut wood adds warmth, used for doors and cabinetry, while the exterior's sage green is echoed in interior elements such as skirting boards, balustrades, and external door frames. The reconfigured outdoor spaces include two courtyards. The first, adjacent to the dining room, features dark wood decking. The second, located at the back of the property, includes a pool, outdoor showers, and integrated seating within an ochre concrete wall. DepA Architects, established in 2009, specializes in reimagining and reorganizing existing buildings, aiming to create contemporary homes that maintain their original character while maximizing interaction with outdoor environments. This project exemplifies their philosophy by blending traditional Portuguese elements with modern architectural interventions. #PortugueseArchitecture #HomeRenovation #DepAArchitects #SageGreenTiles #ConcreteDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CourtyardGardens #OpenPlanLiving #MaterialPalette

This blog post showcases a gut renovation project of a 1920s Mediterranean-style home in Los Angeles, transformed by interior designer Mandy Cheng. The owners, a young couple, aimed to update their property while preserving its original character, despite their preference for contemporary furniture and decor. Cheng's strategy focused on seamlessly integrating modern elements with the home's existing architectural details. One of the key solutions employed by Cheng was the incorporation of custom built-ins. For instance, the family room features an entertainment center that spans an entire wall, incorporating arches and integrated windows to allow natural light into the space. This custom millwork harmonizes with contemporary furnishings, such as a white boucle armchair and a globe sconce, effectively bridging the stylistic gap between old and new. Beyond aesthetic updates, the renovation included significant structural reconfigurations. The four-bedroom, three-bathroom house was expanded into a five-bedroom, five-bathroom layout. On the upper floor, Cheng redesigned a previously oversized bedroom, a smaller room, and a shared, narrow bathroom. This reorganization allowed for the addition of individual en-suite bathrooms for each of the clients' two children and a refreshed primary suite. The main floor saw the kitchen reoriented and walls removed to create a more open-plan design, providing a clear sightline to the family room. This layout enhances the functionality of the home, enabling parents to oversee their children while preparing meals. A notable design feature in the kitchen is the use of hand-painted tiles sourced from Tabarka, a coastal town in Tunisia. The procurement of these tiles presented challenges due to pandemic-related shipping delays. The finished kitchen also includes pendants from Visual Comfort, Brizo fixtures, Vadara Quartz countertops, an RH dining table, Hati Home chairs, and a Jas Becker bench. The cabinetry is painted in Troubador by Portola Paints and features hardware from RH, complementing the Tabarka Studio tiles and terracotta-colored grout. The living room is designed for both elegant entertaining and family activities, featuring a variety of seating options, including a blue Maiden Home sofa and a Serena & Lily hanging chair. Key items in this space include a Meadow Blu chandelier, a One Kings Lane coffee table, and a Lulu & Georgia rug. The dining area, visible upon entering the house, features a custom 10-foot table by Estuary Home, Design Within Reach chairs, Rove Concepts end chairs, a Rejuvenation rug, and a Park Studio light fixture. The primary bathroom is adorned with hand-painted tiles from Mexico, adding a unique and artisanal touch. The exterior of the property also underwent a major transformation, with a dilapidated garage converted into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and pool house. This involved altering the roof pitch, adding a pergola, and integrating it with a newly installed swimming pool. The ADU features an efficient kitchen with blue cabinetry painted in Hamilton Blue by Benjamin Moore, Schoolhouse hardware, Tabarka Studio tiles, Illuminate Vintage sconces, and Brizo fixtures, alongside Clad Home sofa and a coffee table from The Vintage Rug Shop. The 3,500-square-foot home is described as livable, easy, and suitable for both playdates and dinner parties, successfully maintaining its original charm while embracing modern living. The project is an example of how a 1920s structure can be sensitively updated to meet contemporary needs without losing its historical essence, achieved through a thoughtful blend of custom features, reconfigured spaces, and carefully selected materials and furnishings. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MediterraneanStyle #CustomBuiltIns #OpenConcept #TileDesign #LosAngelesHome #HistoricPreservation #MandyChengDesign

Heather Phillips, founder of interior design studio Sunday Supper Club, undertook the transformation of a Hollywood Spanish Revival home for a young and growing family. The initial challenge involved creating a dedicated entryway without encroaching upon the small living room. Working with Barrett Cooke, co-founder of Arterberry Cooke Architecture, the solution involved a small 163-square-foot addition to the front of the house, which also incorporated a compact library to the right of the front door. This expanded the house to a total of 1,753 square feet. The renovation involved a full gut renovation, removing previous additions, stucco, drywall, and updating all systems, demonstrating a commitment to doing the new project justice while respecting the original architecture. Phillips prioritized preserving the home's historic identity. The new entryway features a custom stained glass door, created in collaboration with Judson Studios, along with copper detailing, whimsical archways, and floral motifs, establishing the Spanish Revival aesthetic that permeates the home. During the renovation, hidden features such as old wallpaper layers and a paint-covered tile fireplace façade and hearth in the living room were discovered and restored. Throughout the house, Phillips integrated unique tiles from Mission Tile West and designed custom patterns, meticulously overseeing the tile installation to achieve a pre-aged, antique look with porous glazes and darker grout. The renovated entryway now showcases green-and-white checkerboard tile with a floral border, where the stained glass door casts a rainbow. Whimsical archways lead into the main living areas, a result of a two-year process to infuse the home with charm. The kitchen, designed to transition from a bright daytime space to an intimate evening setting, features chunky walnut countertops, a creamy backsplash from Pratt & Larson, leaded glass cabinet fronts, and high-gloss green cabinets in Benjamin Moore’s Summer's Day. A vintage-inspired Lacanche Range and custom mosaic tile, inspired by a train station, complete the space, continuing the subtle flower motif. The only indoor dining area is a cozy nook adjacent to the kitchen, designed to feel like a supper club suitable for both sunny days and intimate gatherings. A nearby Dutch door opens to a larger outdoor dining area. The living room, centrally located, serves as a dual-purpose living and family room, acting as a neutral "palette cleanser" between the more colorful spaces. A hidden television is concealed within a plaster alcove behind a pocket mirror with antiqued beveled panels. The newly added library, a space for solitude or shared moments, features hot air balloon wallpaper and lofted shelves with a ladder, providing access to higher shelves and a kids' loft above the entryway. The laundry room, a functional space, incorporates playful colors and tile, with cabinets in Benjamin Moore’s Cinnamon n’ Spice and a wardrobe in Damask Yellow. The flooring tiles are made from the same marble as the dining room table, and clever storage solutions are integrated throughout. The primary bedroom offers a neutral respite with custom wall-to-wall built-in cabinetry and a window seat, providing ample storage and a sense of calm. The primary bathroom, inspired by old Hollywood green rooms, features a vanity space with floral wallpaper, echoing the home's continuous flower motif, and a fully tiled wet room with a freestanding tub from The Water Monopoly. The kids’ room embraces whimsy with treehouse-inspired bunk beds and playful accents in sophisticated hues. The kids’ bathroom features handmade white tiles, allowing the blue-and-yellow daisy flooring to pop. Skinny yellow tiles form a ribbon-like pattern, and arched niches and custom built-in medicine cabinets continue the arched motif. The back patio was reoriented for better pool access, aiming to evoke a 1930s/1940s neighborhood pool aesthetic, with custom petal motifs on the iron railing, contributing to the home's cohesive and charming design. #SpanishRevival #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CustomTile #FloralMotifs #VintageInspired #HollywoodHomes #WhimsicalDesign #ArchitecturalAdditions

This article details the transformation of a 6,300-square-foot 19th-century Greek Revival home in Massachusetts, undertaken by interior designer Lisa Tharp for a young family. The family, initially hesitant about the home's traditional and somewhat uninviting interior, sought Tharp's expertise to create a more relaxed and contemporary living space suitable for their lifestyle and for hosting. Tharp assured them that their vision was achievable, even within a historical context. The renovation began with a fresh coat of white paint for the walls, trim, and ceilings throughout the house, chosen to introduce a clean, new feel and serve as a versatile backdrop. The design process also prioritized minimizing chemical exposure, with Tharp planning to use natural-fiber fabrics, non-toxic paints and floor stains, and formaldehyde-free wood for custom furnishings. Architectural details were significantly modified. In the original 1830 section of the house, the foyer opens into a living room where custom built-in bookcases, crafted by Burnham Builders, were added to enhance coziness. A pocket door now connects this space to the dining room, both of which retain their black marble fireplaces. The hardwood flooring in these rooms was sanded and treated with a pale gray stain. Additionally, original interior shutters, rediscovered in an outbuilding, were reinstalled in the living and dining room windows, restoring a classical European and early American feature. The study and kitchen, located in the center of the house, were redesigned to create central gathering areas, particularly for the children. In the study, a custom desk was built into the bay window to encourage homework completion. The kitchen received new black soapstone countertops for the island and perimeter, which contrast with white cabinetry and a Neolith backsplash. On the second floor, bedrooms were revamped. A bunkroom behind the master suite was a key addition, featuring custom built-ins, shiplap-plank accents, and a new dormer that accommodates four twin beds and one full bed. This room was further enlivened with whimsical yellow painted floors by Pauline Curtiss and a chalkboard wall. Overall, the project aimed for a minimal yet inviting aesthetic. The homeowner expressed satisfaction with the white palette, likening it to a 'little black dress' that provides a neutral foundation for adding personality through furniture and accessories. The article highlights the successful balance of preserving historical integrity while infusing modern, family-friendly design elements, resulting in a home that is both clean and casual. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GreekRevival #ContemporaryDesign #HistoricHome #LisaTharp #WhitePalette #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDetails

The article details the thoughtful renovation of a Spanish Revival home in Los Angeles by interior design studio Ome Dezin, in collaboration with interior designer and content creator Marco Zamora. The project aimed to restore the home's historical essence while integrating modern design sensibilities, culminating in an interior that is both soothing and European-inspired. Located in the historic Outpost Estates neighbourhood, the renovation respects the architectural roots of the Spanish Revival style, which was prominent in 20th-century California, characterized by clay tile roofs, white stucco walls, arched doorways, exposed wooden beams, carved doors, and wrought ironwork. The design approach by Ome Dezin and Zamora blends old-world European-Spanish textures with contemporary, clean-lined elements. The chosen colour palette features earthy neutrals, including deep-stained woods, terracotta tiles, and marble, creating a calming atmosphere. Natural materials contribute to the home's soulful character, while touches of stainless steel introduce a sophisticated tension. The interior styling involves a curated mix of vintage and modern pieces, sourced from various places including Amsterdam Modern, Ruemmler, Lulu and Georgia, Nordic Knots, and European flea markets. This eclectic yet refined selection emphasizes the impact of a few well-chosen elements over visual extravagance. A key aspect of Spanish Revival architecture, the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, is meticulously addressed in the renovation. The project extends the backyard with a deck that cantilevers over a canyon, featuring a secluded outdoor kitchen surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees. Winding paths lead to hidden sections of the property, including a meditation hut offering expansive views of the hills. Every design decision, from material choices to object selection, reflects a balance between preserving heritage and embracing a modern aesthetic. The result is a home that does not adhere strictly to past or present trends but rather occupies a thoughtful middle ground, creating a timeless and serene living environment. This renovation is part of Wallpaper's series, "The Inside Story," which spotlights innovative interior design projects. The article highlights how the collaboration successfully captures the nostalgic spirit of 1950s Los Angeles while adapting it for contemporary living. The project underscores the importance of a nuanced design approach that respects a home's history while infusing it with new light and functionality. #SpanishRevival #LosAngeles #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #OmeDezin #MarcoZamora #ArchitecturalHistory #EuropeanDesign #OutdoorLiving

Porto-based architecture studio Fala Atelier undertook a significant renovation of a 60-square-metre apartment located in a historic tile-clad building in downtown Lisbon. The project, named Príncipe Real Apartment, was led by Fala Atelier co-founders Filipe Magalhães and Ana Luisa Soares. The primary objective of the renovation was to transform a cramped and spatially disorganised flat into a bright, open-plan living space. The initial state of the apartment was characterized by an erratic spatial system, with interior walls creating a tightly packed and inefficient layout. The architects decided to completely remove all existing interior walls, effectively gutting the apartment to establish a clean slate. Following this demolition, only two new partitions were introduced, allowing for a largely open-plan configuration that dramatically altered the flow and perception of space within the flat. A key design intervention involved the strategic relocation of living spaces. The architects moved the primary living and dining areas from the north side of the apartment to the south, thereby maximising access to natural light and offering enhanced views of the city from the small, enclosed balcony. This reorientation not only improved daylighting but also capitalized on the apartment's urban context. The redesigned layout incorporates mirrored and glass sliding doors, which play a crucial role in enhancing the sense of openness and light. These doors connect the central living and dining space to bedrooms and bathrooms positioned on either side. The reflective surfaces of the mirrored doors contribute to the illusion of a larger space and help distribute light throughout the interior. The balcony, featuring two glazed sides, was conceived as a direct extension of the living room, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor areas through two doorways and an adjoining white brick wall. Material choices further contribute to the apartment's aesthetic and functional improvements. The floor in the main living area is adorned with black and white patterned tiles, a design choice that subtly references the decorative facade of the building itself. Bright white paint was used extensively on both walls and ceilings throughout the apartment, creating a neutral and expansive backdrop. This 'clear canvas' approach allows for a curated selection of furniture pieces, which are treated as independent objects within the space, to stand out. Custom-designed furniture elements add character and functionality. A deep green sideboard, featuring a tessellating geometric print, is positioned in the living space, serving as a preparation area adjacent to the kitchen. In one of the bedrooms, a chest of pale-blue drawers with a diamond pattern cut into its surface provides both storage and a decorative accent. The apartment's previous layout included a windowless bedroom in the centre, which lacked views. This was rectified by re-situating both bedrooms side-by-side across the north facade, with the master bedroom gaining French doors that open onto a small balcony. The project effectively addressed the spatial deficiencies of the original flat, creating a modern, light-filled, and functionally superior living environment through thoughtful demolition, reorientation, and strategic material and furniture selections. #ApartmentRenovation #LisbonArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #FalaAtelier #ResidentialArchitecture #SpaceRedesign #ModernInteriors

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a lakeside villa in the Algarve, Portugal, undertaken by Architecture and Interior Design Studio De Rosee Sa. The project aimed to modernize a dated property, transforming its fragmented layout into an open-plan living space while preserving its traditional Portuguese aesthetic and incorporating elements of a modern English style. The clients, who had been visiting the Algarve for over two decades, sought a home suitable for year-round use as their family grew, explicitly requesting to avoid a 'beachy' feel. The renovation focused on unifying the original split-level ground floor to create a continuous, expansive, and fluid area ideal for entertaining and daily family life. This involved reimagining a dated conservatory with large windows to maximize natural light and garden views. The design process began with a mood board that blended traditional Portuguese coastal homes with contemporary, pared-back interiors, reflecting the client's preference for softer finishes, layered textures, and classic English kitchen details. The objective was to achieve a warm, lived-in, and comfortable atmosphere year-round, successfully integrating the relaxed, open feel of a Portuguese home with traditional English interior charm. The design approach emphasized atmosphere and materiality over overt stylistic references, leveraging the Mediterranean backdrop of sunlight and natural textures. Local materials like stone, timber, and marble were used, but with refined finishes and tailored joinery reminiscent of English interiors. The color palette moved away from stark white, exploring subtle hues of light pink, soft green, and gentle off-white for communal areas to add character without overwhelming the space. The dining room, a central hub for family and friends, was furnished with a bespoke walnut dining table seating ten, complemented by a sculptural pendant light and walnut detailing in the adjacent kitchen to ensure visual cohesion. Bathrooms were designed with distinct material palettes; family bathrooms featured Portuguese Estremoz White marble for a timeless aesthetic, while the master suite showcased a bolder Verde Viana marble paired with Farrow & Ball’s Dimity. A unique sculptural moment was created in the powder room with a bespoke marble sink, its raw front face highlighting the stone’s natural texture against a limewashed wall. The designers also integrated several vintage pieces and artwork sourced from various markets, personalizing the space and tying the different elements together. Challenges encountered included a language barrier and managing the project remotely from another country. Sustainability was a key consideration, leading to extensive sourcing of materials like marble, tiles, and stone within Portugal to reduce shipping impacts. For UK suppliers, those with European distribution points were prioritized. The use of marble flooring also contributed to sustainability by naturally regulating indoor temperatures during hot summer months. The most transformative aspect of the renovation was deemed to be the living areas, which evolved from disconnected rooms into a light, expansive, and modern open-plan space seamlessly connecting to the garden and pool, while retaining a homely feel. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #PortugueseInteriors #EnglishAesthetic #AlgarveVilla #OpenPlanLiving #SustainableDesign #LuxuryInteriors #MaterialPalette

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Lisbon palacete into a serene, California-inspired retreat, designed by Los Angeles-based Studio Shamshiri. The project, initiated by a West Coast family seeking a zen-like living space in Portugal, deviates from traditional European interior styling by embracing an eclectic aesthetic reminiscent of their Californian lifestyle. Pamela Shamshiri, the founder of Studio Shamshiri, aimed to create a calming escape that reflected the clients' interests and previous home in LA, despite the studio's usual approach of localizing design to its environment. The residence, featuring a delicate cobalt blue-tiled facade, is situated just off Avenida da Liberdade. The interior showcases contemporary wood detailing, a soft color palette, and abundant natural light from numerous windows and French doors overlooking the Jardim Botânico and a private backyard, designed by Spanish landscape designer Fernando Martos. Shamshiri emphasizes the client's preference for meditation and a calm life, which guided the design choices to immerse the family in beauty. The project involved collaboration with UK-based architecture firm McLean Quinlan, who completed the structural work on the 6,600 sq ft main house. Studio Shamshiri then contributed to the finishes and details of the 3,400 sq ft rooftop apartment and the overall interior styling. Shamshiri noted that the design process for this home challenged their usual rules, allowing for a more fluid and imaginative approach. The main house was designed to be ethereal, creating a sense of floating in another reality, while the rooftop apartment was conceived with the four classic elements of air, fire, water, and earth in mind. Upon entering, an Anish Kapoor sculpture, _New Red to Dark_, establishes an otherworldly tone in the foyer. The living room, bathed in a soft green light filtered by drapery, features a custom green silk rug by Studio Shamshiri and a John Williams coffee table. This space also incorporates modern elements like a marble bookcase by Renato Polidori, an Alvar Aalto chair, and a Luigi Caccia Dominioni lamp, creating a midcentury vibe. A nearby lounge space uses pink sheers to diffuse light, highlighting a lavender rug from Shamshiri’s forthcoming collection, a plush sofa from Diesel's collaboration with Moroso, and 18th-century Japanese Kano School screens. The primary bedroom is characterized by a blue sheer curtain that colors the light, creating a calm atmosphere. A pale grey plaster wall serves as both a headboard and room divider. Adjacent to this is a minimalist massage room with plastered walls and a walnut screen, aligning with the homeowner’s ethos. The home office features soap-finished Douglas fir flooring from Amsterdam, an Erik Tinstrand pendant, and a vintage Charles Eames office chair customized with an angora goatskin hide 'chair cosy,' fostering a contemplative environment. Surprisingly, the family primarily uses the top-level, three-bedroom, four-bathroom apartment, which Shamshiri describes as offering a sense of freedom and play, akin to a vacation. The living room in this pied-à-terre strongly evokes a 1960s California character with a custom upholstered sofa, a George Nakashima chair, Sergio Rodriques armchairs, a Hans-Agne Jakonsson floor lamp, and Emmanuel Boos’ 'Comme un Lego' coffee table. The open-plan design includes a dining area with a Pierre Chapo dining table and benches, and a kitchen with metal and opaline glass pendants that maintain garden views. A custom dark walnut breakfast nook, though small, is a favored gathering spot. All bedrooms in the upper level are designed with minimalism and high functionality, accommodating the unique architectural angles. A notable feature is the 'family suite' with a window bench comprising two twin beds and a shutter system designed to block light, create shade, and frame specific views. Shamshiri reflects on the personal significance of the project, highlighting her joy in reconnecting with her clients and being part of this new chapter in their lives, bridging a 6,000-mile journey from the US West Coast to the Iberian Peninsula. #LisbonHouse #StudioShamshiri #InteriorDesign #CaliforniaCool #ZenLiving #LuxuryHomes #PortugueseArchitecture #ModernInteriors #EclecticDesign #PamelaShamshiri

The owner of a two-bedroom London maisonette, Gemma Edwards, who frequently travels for work with a government conservation agency, opted to hire interior designer Sean Symington to transform her home. Edwards sought a unique and non-standard interior, explaining her desire to avoid a “cookie-cutter” look and her focus on enjoyable aesthetic changes rather than extensive structural renovations. Symington, known for his adept use of color and pattern, was selected to invigorate the apartment. The living room, despite its inherent character, was previously described as dull and lacked a central feature. Symington addressed this by introducing a fireplace surround and incorporating alcove shelving, which served both as a focal point and provided display and storage options. A marble mantelpiece, sourced from a reclamation yard, enhances the room's coziness, particularly when candles are lit, despite not being a functional fireplace. The room features watermelon velvet sofas from Sofa.com and an armchair upholstered in an animal spot velvet. Edwards's existing Dashiki curtain fabric was adapted for the south-facing living room, with Sean lengthening them using an additional panel, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new curtains. The room also benefits from a small balcony, providing a pleasant outdoor space for morning coffee and a developing potted garden, accommodating Edwards's busy schedule that limits traditional gardening. In the kitchen and bathroom, the strategy focused on redecorating rather than replacing existing fixtures and appliances, which were of good quality, to avoid waste. Edwards prioritized investing in fabrics and furniture, elements she could potentially take with her if she were to move. The kitchen now boasts soft, earthy red walls contrasting with dark blue cupboards and a chequerboard floor. Radiators were painted to match the walls, a budget-friendly solution. A matching Roman blind and sink skirt introduce softness, and vintage dining chairs were reupholstered. The narrow hallway was not overlooked in the decorative scheme. One wall features a gallery of framed prints, each without a backing to expose the wall behind. The radiator is cleverly concealed by a fabric skirt and a shelf, providing both style and utility. The main bedroom showcases a vibrant palette of emerald and mustard, combined with natural materials. A half-tester over the bed creates a bold statement, complemented by a classic William Morris print wallpaper. Table lamps from Pooky and smaller reading lights with scalloped seagrass shades adorn wicker-topped bedside tables. Fitted wardrobes, painted in Bancha by Farrow & Ball to match the woodwork, include both panelled doors and open shelves, aiding in creating a sense of spaciousness, with Ikea baskets used for storage. The home office underwent a significant transformation from an unliked baby blue to a warmer Farrow & Ball India Yellow. This color provides a suitable backdrop for a painting and a kilim rug, a souvenir from Edwards's time working in Africa. An antique desk from Vinterior and practical shelves with decorative scalloped edging complete the space. Edwards expresses her satisfaction with the final result, highlighting how each room now possesses a distinct character and individual color scheme, attributing the elevated aesthetic to the paint colors and fabrics chosen with Symington's expertise. #LondonMaisonette #InteriorDesign #ColorfulHome #PatternedDecor #BudgetDecorating #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeOfficeIdeas #Renovation #SeanSymington

Gon architects have transformed Casa Flix, a 42-square-meter attic apartment in Madrid's city center, into a flexible, light-filled urban home. Located on the sixth floor of a historic 1900 building near Calleo square, the renovation addressed the challenges of a compact space with a sloped roof and unconventional layout, aiming to maximize space, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The original two-room layout was reconfigured into four distinct, yet visually connected, areas: a bedroom/dressing area, an entrance, a workspace/bathroom, and a kitchen/living/dining room. The apartment's entrance, designed to evoke a ship's interior, features a blue tunnel, a metal shelf, and a circular window, creating a unique transitional space. The central bathroom separates the sink and toilet from the shower, utilizing mirrored panels to conceal plumbing and expand the perceived space through reflections. A glass block wall in the shower ensures privacy while allowing natural light to penetrate. The workspace includes a triangular desk against a green partial wall, complemented by an orange Moustache chair. The kitchen area features pale yellow cabinets running along the higher end of the sloped ceiling, providing storage for kitchen essentials, cleaning products, and even the owner’s clothes. A vibrant blue dining table is positioned beneath the lower part of the ceiling. To enhance natural light and ventilation, additional skylights were installed in the bedroom and living room, creating an airy atmosphere. A transparent glass door at the entrance further contributes to the apartment's openness, allowing light to flow throughout. At night, the glass-blocked shower illuminates, casting a soft glow across the entire apartment. While most of the apartment features a mix of bold colors and white surfaces, the bedroom maintains a serene, minimalist aesthetic by being completely void of vibrant hues. The exterior of the building, with its small, open terrace offering views of tiled rooftops, complements the modern interior. The renovation successfully transformed a drab attic into a dynamic, colorful, and highly functional living space, emphasizing smart design solutions for small urban dwellings. The project highlights the potential for innovative design to revitalize historic spaces, creating contemporary homes that embrace both aesthetic appeal and practical living. #AtticRenovation #MadridArchitecture #ColorfulInterior #SmallSpaceDesign #UrbanLiving #GonArchitects #ModernApartment #ResidentialDesign #InteriorTransformation

In 1927, French diplomat Larz Anderson designed a guest house in Brookline, Massachusetts, drawing inspiration from his and his wife’s travels to Santa Monica, California. This Spanish Colonial-style residence, characterized by its red terra-cotta tile roof, adobe-colored stucco walls, and cast stone entrance, presented a unique architectural style in Brookline. Nearly a century later, the property found new owners with family ties to Spain, making the home's original design particularly fitting. However, the interior required a modern refresh to align with contemporary preferences. Alexandra Aquadro of AGA Interior Design spearheaded the renovation, aiming to brighten, clean, and open up the previously dark and heavy spaces. The initial state of the house featured heavy window treatments and dark wood, which contrasted with the client's desire for a warm environment that seamlessly integrated the outdoors. The renovation, which began in the fall of 2020, involved a collaborative effort with R L Clancy Builders, T.A. Hatcher Architects, and landscape architect Zen Associates. Significant structural changes were made, including opening up the kitchen, dining room, and back entrance. Walls were removed to create an expansive primary suite. After one year, the historic, two-story property was transformed, blending its historical integrity with a more modern aesthetic. The clients' taste was described as a mix of minimal, clean contemporary, and a fondness for midcentury modern design. Aquadro's goal was to balance these styles while remaining true to the home's historic character. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a neutral-toned seating area featuring A. Rudin chairs and a minimalist hanging light from Urban Electric. Adjacent to this space is a blue family room, which incorporates clean lines, traditional styles, and eclectic items collected during the couple’s travels. The blue hue, a favorite of the client, was integrated throughout the house, including the primary suite, providing a cohesive and calming palette that complemented the neutrals and warm woods. The primary suite on the second floor boasts an upholstered blue bed by A. Rudin, a modern magnifying glass-esque hanging light from Urban Electric, and early 1900s Japanese artwork. A walk-in closet leads to a bright, spa-like en suite bathroom, finished with bianco dolomite marble floors and a custom Jonathan Browning Studios ceiling light. Leaving the primary suite, a bridge offers views of the main living room, where the original Spanish Baroque-style white stucco wood-burning fireplace stands as a historical centerpiece. Contemporary elements, such as a neutral sofa and chairs from A. Rudin, an Evan Lewis glass coffee table, and a subtly detailed Patterson Flynn rug, were incorporated around this historical feature. Large windows extend to the ceiling, filling the room with natural light and offering views of the lush exterior. The kitchen, once described as dark and cramped, underwent a complete transformation. It now features leather Bright Chair bar stools, a glass backsplash, Caesarstone countertops, and a large picture window. The adjacent dining room, designed for entertaining, showcases a framed black shawl, a special family heirloom belonging to the wife’s grandmother, which she wore to church in Spain. This detail underscores the home’s connection to the couple's heritage, making the property a fitting blend of historical charm and modern living. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BrooklineHome #SpanishColonial #ModernDesign #HistoricPreservation #LuxuryHomes #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeDecor

The article describes the transformation of an old Mexican house into an artist's retreat for financial adviser Dorsey Gardner, located in San Miguel de Allende. Gardner initially sought a small studio but acquired a significantly larger 19th-century cottage, which was later expanded to 12,000 square feet. The property, built in the late 1700s, was surrounded by high walls and presented several challenges. Upon acquiring the property, Gardner faced initial issues, including a dense "cactus farm" on the premises. Hundreds of cacti, including a large candelabra cactus, were carefully relocated. The house also featured numerous false ceilings installed in the 1950s in its oldest section, which architect Sebastian Zavala removed to restore the original height and appearance of the rooms. Zavala also enhanced some ceilings with grand wooden crossbeams and refinished existing 1950s wood doors and windows with a light whitewash. During the renovation, a hand-painted frieze in the primary bedroom was uncovered and preserved. Gardner, who had previously undertaken remodeling projects on his own homes in Boston, entrusted the design of this Mexican property to Zavala and Paris-born, San Miguel–based designer Anne-Marie Midy. Gardner expressed a preference for a neutral aesthetic, distinct from traditional Mexican decor. He provided the designers with inspiration from magazines and gave them "carta blanca" for the project before embarking on an extended trip. Midy, along with her partner Jorge Almada, founded Casa Midy, a design firm specializing in furniture and accessories. Gardner's house became their first major interior design project. He had discovered Midy and Almada at their former bistro, Plum, known for its distinctive all-purple decor, which Midy noted was an effective way to attract clients. Zavala converted the original structure into a three-bedroom, five-bathroom artist's retreat, maintaining the house's Spanish Colonial architectural elements, stone walls, and archways. He added a spacious studio and installed robust columns on the patio, using locally quarried stone. A new second-floor guest room was also added, offering views of the 17th-century parish church's Gothic-style tower, an 1880 addition inspired by European postcards. Midy and Almada adhered to Gardner's request for a more understated Mexican interior design. They avoided extensive use of decorative elements like talavera tiles, except for a minimal application in the kitchen, and chose muted colors. However, they integrated rich local decorative resources, using jute from Yucatán for curtains, linens from local cotton mills, and furniture sourced from regional antiques shops. Even the traditional lime-and-pigment paint was mixed with San Miguel dirt to achieve a warmer tone. Midy and Almada also designed furniture and accessories for the house, such as iron sconces, a leather cocktail table, and bed linens. They collaborated with Zavala to create trench-like fountains inspired by hacienda horse troughs. The project concluded after a year, with Gardner expressing immense satisfaction, declaring the house fit for a king. #MexicanDesign #ArtistStudio #SanMiguelDeAllende #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SpanishColonial #ArchitecturalRestoration #CasaMidy #LuxuryHome

The article showcases the transformation of an unassuming 1950s family home into a stylish Scandi-style haven, guided by Lee Thornley, founder of Bert & May tiles. The renovation focused on creating a space that feels open and airy while incorporating distinct personality into each room. The design elements include smooth wood finishes, graphic tiles, bold color accents, spa-like bathrooms, and Crittal-style doors. Thornley emphasizes the importance of being bold and experimenting with textures and colors to add depth and intrigue to a home. The kitchen design began with mood boards to achieve a 'Scandi simple vibe.' A bold Caesarstone backsplash was chosen first, followed by complementary tiles and timber. The island features Bert & May’s Hexagonal Split tiles in Pearl and Brighton stone. Adjacent to the kitchen is a comfortable family living room, which includes Scandi-style wood cladding on a back wall, a piano in an alcove, and a raised wood-burning stove with log storage. This space is considered the heart of the home, appealing in both winter and summer, especially when large doors open to connect with the garden. A snug living room offers a cozy retreat with dark 'Purple Brown' walls by Little Greene, complemented by a dark textured rug, reclaimed wood flooring, and timber cladding around a wood-burning stove. This combination of tones and textures creates a sophisticated and sensual atmosphere. Thornley encourages homeowners to embrace bold designs rather than solely relying on neutral spaces to infuse personality into their homes. The interplay of smooth wood, graphic shapes, and vibrant paint colors is highlighted as key to making each room distinctive. The hallway features Bert & May's Blue Alpardo tiles on the floor and a new light pine staircase, creating a bright and fresh aesthetic with a blue and white diagonal striped effect. Crittal-style doors and panels provide a harmonious flow between downstairs spaces, allowing for privacy and separation while maintaining an open-plan feel. The bedrooms exhibit a distinctly Mediterranean influence, with one featuring a forest-green tiled bedhead wall and midcentury furnishings, and the main bedroom continuing the nature-inspired theme with a rustic slatted wood bedhead and pine green walls, evoking a strong Scandi ambiance. The three renovated bathrooms are designed to be luxurious and spa-like, each with a unique personality. Lee's own bathroom incorporates Mylands’ deep Market Green™ No.38 paint with black Bert & May Old Iron Hexagon tiles for moody drama. His daughter Iris’s bathroom features glamorous pink Luna Rose tiles, chosen for their feminine appeal and timelessness. His other daughter Layla’s bathroom is designed with a cooler, more adult aesthetic, utilizing glossy jewel-toned green tiles from Fired Earth and sleek black fittings from The Watermark Collection. A garden studio, a Study Box from the Bert's Box collection, serves as a home office and Phil’s pottery studio. This structure, designed in collaboration with Box 9 Design, is finished with Bert & May materials, maintaining a consistent design language with the main house. The exterior of the home, originally unremarkable, was timber-clad to align with the Scandi design ethos, providing a facelift that sets the tone for the relaxed interior and hints at the natural furnishings, neutral palette, and bold stylistic injections within. #ScandiStyle #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TileDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #CrittalDoors #BertAndMayTiles #HomeOffice

This article highlights a 3,000-square-foot home in Los Angeles, along with its 400-square-foot Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), designed by Shanty Wijaya and James Mulyadi from the firm Allprace. The design incorporates a soft interpretation of Catalan Modernism, also known as Modernisme, while honoring the home's original Spanish-style architecture, which is prevalent in the neighborhood. Unlike traditional Catalan Modernism, the design eschews elaborate stained-glass windows and mosaic-tiled exteriors in favor of a subtler approach. The residence maintains key characteristics of California-Spanish homes, such as an earthy color palette and smooth archways. However, the designers introduce distinct elements in the floors and ceilings to create visual interest and tension. For instance, the family room features a barrel-vaulted white oak ceiling, a bathroom showcases groovy Bibiena Variegato terracotta floor tiles, and the entry steps are adorned with a round Lucite baluster. These details intentionally shift focus from eye-level elements to the upper and lower architectural features. Wijaya shares several design insights from the renovation. The majority of the home's ceilings and walls are finished with European plaster, with some painted surfaces. The dining room, centrally located, acts as a focal point, featuring wallpaper with a detailed nature-landscape pattern in a neutral hue that aligns with the Catalan Modernism theme. Color is used impactfully, particularly in a bathroom where midnight port zellige tiles create a moody atmosphere. The texture and color of these tiles complement the wood ceiling and wall, adding depth to the space while keeping eye-level elements muted. Natural light is also thoughtfully integrated; in the guest bathroom, skylights complement a window, casting shadows that highlight the terracotta floor and add drama to the simple plaster walls. The ADU significantly enhances the property's value and functionality, offering flexibility for use as a guesthouse, office, or income-generating Airbnb. Throughout the main house, curves, arches, and geometrical designs are consistently applied, as seen in the round, curvy marble bullnose vanity in a bathroom, ensuring design cohesion. The barrel-vaulted ceiling serves as both an artistic element and a focal point, beautifully framing the view of the pool and complementing the cabana's ceiling, thus strengthening the indoor-outdoor connection. Regarding the budget, the biggest splurges were on high-quality finishes, including lighting, plumbing fixtures, appliances, and flooring. Conversely, a bio-ethanol fireplace in the living room represented a significant cost-saving measure. Wijaya particularly favors the Lucite stair baluster and the curved barrel-vaulted white oak ceiling, intending to reuse these unique, art-like details in future projects. #HomeDesign #SpanishStyleHome #CatalanModernism #ADUDesign #InteriorRenovation #ArchitecturalDetails #TerracottaTiles #NaturalLight #CustomFinishes