11 Skylights Brighten a Compact, Narrow Home in Vancouver

This article explores the use of skylights in residential interior design, highlighting ten projects that demonstrate their aesthetic and functional benefits. Skylights, defined as windows placed on a roof, are typically angled to allow natural light to penetrate interior spaces, serving as an alternative to traditional windows. Their application can provide privacy, introduce decorative lighting, or compensate for a lack of conventional window openings. The article presents a curated selection of residential projects, each showcasing a unique approach to incorporating skylights. The Oculi House in New York City, by O'Neill Rose Architects, exemplifies how elliptical skylights can transform dark brownstone interiors into airy, bright spaces, complemented by rectilinear glass doors. This project was a Dezeen Award shortlist in 2019 for house interior of the year. In Norway, Line Solgaard's Weekend House Fredrikstad features a pyramid-shaped skylight that brightens the entire holiday home, including an oak-lined dining room. The natural light creates dramatic shadows and contrasts with darker kitchen elements. Branch Studio Architects' Casa X in Australia's Phillip Island integrates clerestory windows and large skylights, with three 'pop-up' high-level windows designed to draw northern light deep into the house throughout the day. Fala Atelier converted a windowless garage in Lisbon into a vibrant living space by incorporating strategically placed skylights and painting the walls white, using pops of color like a teal-hued extractor fan to enhance the spacious interior. Yoshihara McKee's Photographer's Loft in Chelsea, New York, despite its ground-floor location, maximizes natural light through an angled skylight. The architects removed internal partitions to optimize the light's distribution, highlighting sculptural furniture in neutral tones. Tres Birds Workshop created an innovative operable skylight from dichroic glass in an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in the Rocky Mountains. This multicolored glass casts dynamic, vibrant light patterns across the interior, changing with the sun's angle and season. In Santiago, Chile, Rodolfo Cañas's Mogro House, also known as Skylight House, features a prominent stainless steel volume topped with an oversized skylight. A floating metal staircase within this volume leads to the roof, while monochrome furniture mirrors the house's steel and exposed concrete palette. FujiwaraMuro Architects designed the House with a Light Void in Japan, achieving privacy through geometric skylights instead of traditional windows. These openings are positioned above five cement-clad volumes, contributing to the minimalist aesthetic. Casa Boavista, a Porto townhouse renovated by Pablo Pita Architects, incorporates skylights on multiple levels to enhance privacy on a busy street. An extension and new storey were added, with a trio of skylights illuminating the neutral interiors. Lastly, R2 Studio's renovation of a Victorian London home uses a skylight to accentuate a bright orange central staircase, adding warmth and vibrancy to the already colorful interiors. The article emphasizes that skylights are versatile architectural elements that can solve practical challenges like privacy and natural light distribution, while also serving as significant decorative features, demonstrating their capacity to profoundly influence the ambiance and functionality of residential spaces. #Skylights #ResidentialInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalLight #HomeRenovation #InteriorLighting #ModernArchitecture #DesignInspiration #Lookbooks

Space4Architecture, a New York-based studio, has completed the renovation of the Verandah Place Townhouse, a former 1800s carriage house in Brooklyn's Carroll Gardens neighborhood. The project aimed to transform the existing interior, which had been subjected to multiple previous renovations that stripped away its original character, into a comfortable and functional home for a family of five and their dog, while adhering to a minimal design aesthetic. The redbrick facade is one of the few remaining original features, with the interior having been previously divided into numerous small rooms and narrow hallways. The primary design challenge was to introduce natural light and a sense of openness into the inwardly narrow structure. Space4Architecture addressed this by integrating a central white staircase, topped with a skylight, as a focal point. This staircase, featuring oak treads and open risers, is flanked by plastered parapets on one side. Its strategic placement, coupled with a large adjacent glass door, allows ample natural light to penetrate and diffuse throughout the four-story residence. According to Michele Busiri-Vici, principal at Space4Architecture, the stairwell functions as a "vessel of light" and a continuous visual reference, enhancing both horizontal and vertical connectivity within the home. The interior design draws inspiration from New York loft apartments, prioritizing an uninterrupted flow of space. The architects achieved an extremely open, contemporary, and welcoming interior that contrasts with the private and traditional exterior. A neutral color palette, primarily consisting of soft white walls and light oak elements, was deliberately chosen to maximize the diffusion of natural light. Built-in oak millwork is featured throughout the rooms, complementing the white walls and pale oak wooden floors, sourced from Italian brand Alpha. Accents of color are introduced through furniture in the living room, which provides a contrast to a blackened-steel fireplace. The main bathroom is adorned with delicate terrazzo tiles from Concrete Collaborative, adding a subtle touch of texture and pattern. The overall design is characterized by its minimalism, cleanliness, and essential functionality, embodying a refined aesthetic. This project reflects Space4Architecture's approach to transforming historic structures into modern living spaces while retaining a sense of their original context. The studio, founded in 1999 by Michele Busiri-Vici and Clementina Ruggieri, has a history of similar projects, including another townhouse in New York's Upper West Side that features a curved white staircase. The Verandah Place Townhouse exemplifies their expertise in creating luminous and expansive interiors within challenging architectural constraints. #Brooklyn #Staircases #MinimalistInteriorDesign #Townhouses #ArchitecturalRenovation #NaturalLight #SkylightDesign #InteriorArchitecture

The J House in Bien Hoa, Vietnam, designed by local studio CTA (Creative Architects), addresses the challenges of a narrow urban plot measuring four by 24 meters by employing a strategic use of folding glass doors, perforated metal screens, and skylights. The client, a teacher, sought a bright and airy home that could also accommodate her gardening hobby. The design prioritizes natural light, ventilation, and noise prevention, drawing from CTA's analysis of common issues in urban townhouses. The home is organized with a layering of spaces. The entrance features a living room and classroom accessible through full-height, folding glass doors. This space transitions into a central kitchen and dining area, which then leads to a bedroom and a small private garden at the southern end of the property. The distinct areas are delineated by large, wood-framed screens, which are infilled with various types of glass – translucent, transparent, and textured. This approach creates diverse light qualities and visual connections throughout the interior, promoting an open yet defined living experience. Given the site's narrow dimensions, the design incorporates skylights to bring natural light and air into the house's central and rear sections. These skylights are equipped with a thin layer of stones on top, which serves to diffuse direct sunlight, reduce glare, and produce dappled shadows within the home. This creates an effect reminiscent of sunlight filtering through leaves, enhancing the natural ambiance indoors. The team at CTA aimed to ensure that while the indoor spaces are abundantly lit, they remain cool and comfortable. A staircase, also illuminated by a skylight, ascends to the smaller first floor. This upper level comprises an additional bedroom, a bathroom, and a terrace at the front of the house. At the rear, a rooftop garden is sheltered by a metal-framed pergola. The exterior of the upper storey is clad in finely perforated metal panels arranged in a gridded pattern. A deliberate gap in this cladding allows for unobstructed views from the bedroom window and terrace, blending privacy with openness. The interior material palette features dark wood, concrete, and stone panels, which complement the play of light and shadow, imparting a sense of warmth and intimacy to the dwelling. Furthermore, a hollow-frame ceiling system is integrated into the design to absorb external noise, contributing to a tranquil indoor environment. CTA, established in 2014 and led by Bui The Long, Vo The Duy, and Nguyen Thi Xuan Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City, has a portfolio that includes other residential projects in Vietnam, such as a home in Tay Ninh with brown scalloped tiles and another in Bien Hoa wrapped in perforated bricks, showcasing their consistent focus on innovative material use and light management in narrow urban contexts. The photography for the J House project was done by Hiroyuki Oki. #JHouse #CTA #VietnameseArchitecture #NarrowPlotDesign #NaturalLight #Skylights #PerforatedMetalScreens #SustainableDesign #UrbanHousing #InteriorDesign

This article showcases ten residential projects that ingeniously integrate lightwells to maximize natural light within various home environments, especially in areas with limited external windows. The selection draws from popular projects featured on Dezeen's Pinterest boards, highlighting diverse architectural approaches to this design challenge. Each project demonstrates a unique method of incorporating lightwells, ranging from narrow urban townhouses to suburban residences and renovated apartments. The Clinton Hill Courtyard House in Brooklyn, USA, by O'Neill McVoy Architects, exemplifies how large skylights carved into an historic brick townhouse can funnel natural light through a small indoor courtyard, revitalizing the interior. Similarly, Kientruc O's House 304 in Vietnam addresses the constraints of a skinny townhouse by designing a lightwell that spans its entire length, creating a central void wrapped by plant-filled balconies across four floors, thus preventing a cramped feeling and enhancing ventilation. In London, Amin Taha Architects' Caroline Place project involved reconfiguring a 1950s terraced house. The design centers rooms around a light-filled courtyard garden, complemented by an open-plan basement level that also benefits from the added light. Coffey Architects' Hidden House, named for its secluded location in London, ensures ample illumination through large skylights arranged in a chequerboard pattern, proving that even a modest brick residence can be brightly lit. VACO Design's H House in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, utilizes perforated concrete walls and ceilings with hollow blocks. These elements not only provide ventilation but also flood an indoor swimming pool with natural daylight, casting distinctive geometric shadows. Pasel Kuenzel's V13K05 House in the Netherlands incorporates a large central atrium and a gravel-filled courtyard with sliding glass doors to innovative fill the home with light. Nook Architects' renovation of The Bookcase apartment in Barcelona, Spain, features a central lightwell that provides daylight to the bathroom, kitchen, and storage areas. This design works in conjunction with restored original tiles and glass partitions to create a bright and open living space. Nuno Melo Sousa's Sala em Pala in Portugal extended a house into its former courtyard, using a glazed wall and a shingle-covered triangular lightwell to establish a visual connection with the outdoor terrace. Welsh + Major's Annandale House in Sydney, Australia, includes a lightwell that physically separates the original house from its new extension, allowing the entire space to "breathe." This lightwell is topped with a retractable glazed roof, offering residents control over the amount of natural light and ventilation. Finally, Chop + Archi's Kamiuma House in Tokyo, Japan, despite having an almost windowless facade facing the street, achieves brightly lit interiors through triangular voids strategically cut into the building's corners. Collectively, these projects demonstrate a variety of creative and functional solutions for integrating natural light into residential architecture, particularly in challenging urban or confined settings. They highlight how lightwells can enhance indoor living environments by improving illumination, ventilation, and a sense of openness, transforming potentially dark spaces into vibrant and functional areas. #Lightwells #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeInteriors #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalDesign #UrbanHomes #Skylights #HomeDecoration #ArchitecturalInnovation

Zook Cabins, a company that began with modular log homes in 2006, has significantly expanded its offerings, including eight styles of tiny homes, each measuring approximately 400 square feet. This article introduces their newest model, The Luna, a collaborative project with New Frontier Design. Matt Esh, Zook Cabins’ marketing director, highlights the Luna's distinguishing features, which include metal and cedar siding, a shed roof, and an open-plan living space. The design prioritizes natural light and offers a clean, modern interior, aiming to connect inhabitants with nature even from indoors. The striking lighting, particularly at night, enhances this connection. Zook Cabins prides itself on combining aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, underpinned by a commitment to construction standards that exceed requirements. Their manufacturing facility in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, situated in Amish country, reflects a dedication to quality craftsmanship. The base model of their tiny homes starts at $75,000, encompassing a fully finished 400-square-foot interior, essential appliances, and delivery. Customization options are limited, with models sold as-is unless a client orders ten or more units. Key interior design elements of The Luna include engineered hardwood floors, solid oak used for a waist-high bar, and shiplap walls that subtly define the bedroom area. The kitchens are equipped with quartz countertops, birch cabinetry, an electric cooktop, a white apron-front sink, Delta faucets, and hookups for a refrigerator and washer/dryer. Bathrooms feature fiberglass shower pans, subway tile walls, and two corner shelves, along with a 28-gallon Rheem electric water heater. An ENVI electric panel wall heater is also installed near the toilet for added warmth. The home's insulation is specially designed for metal siding, ensuring efficiency for the dual ductless mini-split unit. The sophisticated lighting system, characteristic of New Frontier Design's work, incorporates LED valence and strip lights that accent the ceiling, millwork, and windows. The custom-made solid oak bed frame appears to float, an effect amplified by the integrated lighting underneath. Zook Cabins serves the entire U.S., having shipped tiny homes nationwide. Their designs are RVIA certified and comply with ANSI A119.5 codes, indicating they are pre-permitted in various U.S. municipalities. The lead time for a tiny home is approximately six months, varying seasonally. While Zook Cabins assists with necessary documentation for permitting and offers a leveling and stabilization package, clients are responsible for site preparation and utility hookups, though the company can connect them with relevant contractors. #TinyHomes #PrefabHomes #ZookCabins #TheLuna #RecessedLighting #ModernDesign #SmallLiving #ModularHomes #InteriorDesign

This blog post details a significant renovation of a 1970s South County residence, focusing on how lighting fixtures from Metro Lighting, in collaboration with KH Interiors, transformed the home. The project was led by interior designer Krista Howard of KH Interiors and Heidi Sanders of Metro Lighting, aiming to create a practical yet elevated space for a busy family of five. The renovation extended beyond a simple kitchen update, evolving into a two-story expansion that now includes a spacious cooking and dining area, along with a covered outdoor porch. Each design element was meticulously chosen to accommodate the family's active lifestyle, encompassing sports schedules, entertaining needs, and daily functionality. The team involved architect William Cover, Lurk’s Custom Cabinets, and photographer Anne Mathias, with Metro Lighting playing a crucial role in curating the home's lighting. In the reimagined kitchen, two large orb pendants are prominently featured above dual islands, one dedicated to storage and the other to function. These orbs are complemented by onyx stone cylinder fixtures that not only echo the kitchen's stone details but also cast a soft, sculptural glow. Above the breakfast table, a sleek gold fixture introduces a contrasting element, its simplicity providing a calm balance to the kitchen's more dynamic design features, creating a cohesive and visually appealing central gathering space. The lighting design extends thoughtfully into other areas of the home, transforming even transitional spaces. A hallway adjacent to the kitchen, referred to as the “kitchen hall,” connects bedrooms to public areas. Here, lighting is strategically used to gently illuminate stone accents, turning a functional corridor into a refined and welcoming passage. This attention to detail ensures that lighting serves both an aesthetic and practical purpose throughout the residence. The powder room and the adjacent lower-level pool changing area draw inspiration from the past, featuring brass vertical sconces reminiscent of 1940s design. These fixtures are paired with playful wallpaper to create an inviting retro-modern ambiance. The lighting in these areas is described as “quiet and classic,” designed to support the functionality of the space without becoming the dominant focal point, allowing other design elements to shine while providing adequate illumination. Beyond its aesthetic contributions, the home incorporates smart lighting and automated window treatments, enhancing both convenience and energy efficiency. These modern features allow the family to easily adjust their living environment, whether for hosting guests, relaxing in the evening, or quickly departing the house, all without compromising the home's timeless design integrity. Lurk’s Custom Cabinets further anchored the space with exceptional craftsmanship, coordinating finishes and cabinetry details with the overall lighting plan to ensure a harmonious visual flow between the kitchen and adjoining rooms. Ultimately, this South County residence represents more than just a renovation; it is a testament to thoughtful design, sustained collaboration, and the transformative power of architectural lighting. The project effectively elevates not only the home’s structure and aesthetics but also significantly enhances the family’s daily living experience. Through the combined expertise of Metro Lighting and KH Interiors, a once-dated kitchen has been revitalized into a radiant and central hub for connection and comfort within the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LightingDesign #KitchenRemodel #SmartHome #ArchitecturalLighting #KHInteriors #MetroLighting

SlowStudio’s Cottage B&B No.11 is a residential design project located in Chicheng Valley, Hebei, China, envisioned as a prototype for a countryside regeneration initiative. The project stands behind the only preserved historical temple in the northern Chinese village, offering a unique opportunity to integrate modern living with the natural landscape and the site's seasonal changes, as well as its popularity for stargazing. The design emphasizes harmony with the rugged textures of the valley through the use of natural wood and stone, aiming to create a dynamic spatial experience for its occupants. The interior design of Cottage B&B No.11 blends modern amenities with rustic countryside charm, creating a welcoming dwelling that encourages immersion in the surroundings. This approach is achieved through thoughtful color schemes, nuanced lighting, and the incorporation of organic materials, which together instill a sense of dynamism and lyricism within the space. The design celebrates nature, enabling residents to experience the changing seasons and establish a profound connection with the landscape. A key architectural feature is a semi-circular skylight on the roof, designed to introduce dynamic light patterns throughout the day as natural light interacts with the interior walls. At night, this skylight transforms into a window for stargazing, further enhancing the connection to the natural environment. Additionally, the design incorporates an adjustable rotating platform that links the roof with the mezzanine. This platform, capable of a 45-degree rotation, manipulates light and shadow patterns, creating an artistic and ever-changing visual effect within the room. SlowStudio conceptualizes Cottage B&B No.11 as an earthly sanctuary where individuals can find peace and joy, appreciating both the beauty of nature and the passage of time. The project, covering an area of 101 sqm, was designed by Vincent GU and Chen JIN, with a design team including Wan Huiyang and Li Juan Service. The construction drawings and FF&E were managed by Lily Zhao, and the client for the project was UNICO. Boris Shiu was responsible for the photography, capturing the essence of the design and its integration with the environment. #SlowStudio #CottageBBNo11 #ChichengValley #ResidentialDesign #SkylightArchitecture #DynamicLighting #CountrysideRegeneration #NaturalMaterials #Stargazing

The article showcases a unique postmodern villa located at 31 Governors Road in Toronto, Canada, a landmark residential project completed in 1997 by the Italian architect brothers Francesco and Aldo Piccaluga. Known for their distinctive space-age style, the Piccalugas introduced color and geometry to Toronto's architectural landscape, notably with projects such as the CN Tower restaurant. This particular home, situated between the affluent neighborhoods of Leaside and Rosedale, stands out amidst its Victorian and Edwardian counterparts. Initially met with skepticism, the residence has since gained recognition as a celebrated landmark. The 5,906-square-foot home, featuring three bedrooms and four bathrooms, was recently listed for rent. For this occasion, it underwent a revival led by stylist Bentley Bryan of RAE Property Styling and was photographed by Raffi Tutundjian of Jagged Lens. Tutundjian initiated the project by collaborating with the property's agent, architectural historian Alex Mckinlay Corey, to de-stage the house and introduce new furniture. The aim was to create an aesthetic that complemented the home's unique character. Tutundjian secured a partnership with Porch Modern, a local vendor that provided high-end furniture pieces, which then facilitated collaborations with other Toronto vendors sharing a similar design sensibility. Bentley Bryan's approach to styling focused on highlighting the home's distinctive architecture. This involved carefully curating vintage pieces such as a Pierre Jeanneret Kangaroo chair, a restored Maralunga love seat, and a Mario Bellini Lamp chair. These selections were chosen to harmonize with the home's existing luxurious finishes, including Venetian plaster walls, marble staircases, herringbone floors, and geometric windows. The objective was to restore the house to the grandeur and innovative spirit envisioned by the Piccaluga brothers. The design also incorporated furniture and artwork from local Toronto vendors, celebrating the city's design scene. The styling process deliberately departed from traditional home staging practices, which typically prioritize creating a 'livable' appearance. Instead, the focus was on showcasing the house's architectural beauty and interior design as an art form. Key interior features include a saltwater pool housed in a tiled room with windows offering views to both the interior and exterior. The living room features a wall adorned with a cloud motif that stops short of the ceiling, allowing natural light from the staircase to permeate the space. The dining area is characterized by three long, wood-encased windows that provide treetop views. Throughout the living and dining areas, circular motifs are consistently incorporated, reinforcing the home's geometric design language. #PostmodernArchitecture #TorontoHomes #PiccalugaBrothers #HomeStyling #ArchitecturalDesign #MidCenturyModern #InteriorDesign #GeometricDesign #LuxuryRealEstate

This article explores contemporary trends and considerations in home lighting, emphasizing how fixtures can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes within a living space. It highlights the growing popularity of LED pendants, particularly those with black finishes and integrated LED technology, for their elegant contribution to areas such as kitchen islands. The article also discusses the increasing scale of chandeliers, which now act as dramatic focal points, especially when positioned above dining tables, due to their substantial size and multiple light sources. Wall sconces are presented as a versatile lighting solution, capable of enhancing various rooms, including bathrooms, entries, and bedrooms. They are noted for their ability to add both form and function, often installed in pairs to provide balanced illumination and visual interest. The piece further delves into the decorative potential of lighting, showcasing a 3-tier chandelier with a polished nickel finish and mid-century modern shapes, designed to introduce shimmer and shine to living spaces. Playful table lamps are also featured, underscoring their capacity to add an unexpected touch to any room they occupy. A significant trend highlighted is the incorporation of natural materials into light fixtures, such as black jute pendants that create a statement above dining tables. The article showcases how these natural elements contribute to a distinct aesthetic. Sculptural lighting is also a key theme, exemplified by a Visual Comfort Strada Ring Chandelier that lends an artistic effect to a room. Accent lamps, like the Visual Comfort Penelope Table Lamp by Alexa Hampton, are discussed for their dual role in adding color and functionality, particularly on nightstands. The article also touches on modern flush mount fixtures, noting how designs with intersecting rings and celestial shapes can accentuate ceilings and illuminate rooms effectively. Lanterns, specifically Visual Comfort lanterns by Chapman & Myers, are shown to complement colorful home designs. Unique table lamps, such as a pebbled aquamarine lamp by Aerin, are presented as brighteners for any environment, offering a subtle nautical feel. The strategic placement of pendant pairs above dining tables is also examined, highlighting how black details and geometric patterns can imbue decorative fixtures with personality. Tiered chandeliers are recommended for vaulted ceilings, where their volume makes them a prominent focal point. Finally, the article emphasizes the soothing effect of soft contemporary lighting in neutral colors, which contributes to a tranquil atmosphere within a room. Overall, the article serves as a guide to various lighting options available for home decoration, focusing on how different styles, materials, and scales of fixtures can enhance the ambiance, functionality, and visual appeal of diverse interior spaces. It provides examples of specific products and design approaches that align with current trends in home lighting. #HomeLighting #InteriorDesignTrends #Chandeliers #PendantLights #WallSconces #DecorativeLighting #NaturalMaterials #ModernFixtures #AccentLamps

Floor-to-ceiling windows are a design element that maximizes natural light and offers expansive views, making a space feel larger and more connected to its surroundings. This architectural feature is particularly impactful when a home boasts a spectacular vista, whether it's a sprawling forest, a serene beach, or a vibrant city skyline. The glass panels often extend both vertically and horizontally, creating an almost alfresco living experience. Beyond the visual appeal, these windows bring abundant light into interiors throughout the day. A kitchen, for instance, can be bathed in bright, cheerful morning light, while a living room can be imbued with a warm glow as the sun sets. To further enhance the aesthetic impact of floor-to-ceiling windows, design considerations can include painting the window sashes and mullions in a dark hue. This choice creates a striking contrast against the outdoor scenery, making the vista pop even more. However, the inherent beauty of the view itself often negates the need for elaborate additional adornments. The article showcases 25 diverse examples from the Architectural Digest archives, illustrating how floor-to-ceiling windows are integrated into various residential settings. These examples highlight a range of interior design styles and geographical locations, demonstrating the versatility of this architectural element. In a Connecticut house by Carrier and Co., cube chairs by Desiron are positioned to face the living area's floor-to-ceiling windows, inviting inhabitants to engage with the exterior. Kara Ross and Stephen Ross's New York apartment, designed by Ingrao Inc., features city views through curtained windows, complemented by vintage French mahogany floor lamps and a papier-mâché sculpture. A San Francisco residence, furnished by Ken Fulk, boasts a 27-foot-tall window in the great room, offering sweeping cityscapes. The master bedroom of a New York Hudson River Valley retreat, designed by architect Joel Sanders, includes a Poliform platform bed and a CB2 Peekaboo table by the windows, paired with a vintage Frank Gehry Wiggle chair. An art-collecting couple's home in Amagansett, New York, by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, features a sun-drenched open living area framed by Duratherm doors and windows, with custom-made sofas upholstered in Rubelli fabric and a Stark rug. In Laguna Beach, California, a home by Ehrlich Architects integrates a window wall in the master bedroom that slides open to blend indoor and outdoor spaces, with beds by Roche Bobois. Designer John Barman's Miami Beach apartment utilizes a retractable, floor-to-ceiling door to provide immediate ocean views from every room, showcasing Thonet chairs and vintage accessories. A Los Angeles house decorated by Dan Fink features a Poul Kjærholm leather-top stool and a Vladimir Kagan sofa within a great room that connects to the outside through large windows. A Manhattan apartment by Tony Ingrao and Randy Kemper incorporates a Jeff Koons sculpture and vintage Fritz Henningsen chairs at a window wall. Architect Antoine Predock designed a New Mexico home with a master bedroom offering mountain views, where coyotes have been observed walking outside the windows. Jamie Drake’s New York City living room combines a custom cocktail table and sectional sofa with a Pedro Friedeberg Hand chair and gold-leafed floor lamps, all benefiting from ample natural light. A home by Lake|Flato Architects near Austin, Texas, provides broad views of downtown through expansive windows, accented by a large-scale artwork by Vik Muniz. The Florida living room of Judy Blume and George Cooper, renovated by Thomas E. Pope and Malcolm James Kutner, is bordered by a garden rich with palms and orchids, visible through its windows. Adam Levine’s Hollywood Hills living room, designed by Mark Haddaway, is a carefully curated space of vintage pieces, illuminated by natural light. Lee F. Mindel of Shelton, Mindel & Assoc. designed a New York City apartment living area with stools and wicker lounge chairs by Poul Kjærholm, arranged on a custom-made V’Soske carpet. In Nashville, Tennessee, a family room by McAlpine Booth & Ferrier Interiors features a Sutherland lounge chair and a Flexform sectional sofa, with Donghia fabric curtains. A Commune-designed house in Los Angeles incorporates reclaimed-oak paneling in its double-height living room, benefiting from large windows. Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan’s Shelter Island, New York, home features custom-made ceramic tiles in a sunken living area that is brightened by natural light. A New York City pied-à-terre by Jennifer Post Design Inc. includes a vintage Stilnovo light fixture and a Minotti sofa in a living room filled with light. The kitchen of a New York City residence by ODA-Architecture features red-lacquer cabinetry and stainless-steel counters, with light streaming in through large windows. Gilles Mendel’s Manhattan apartment living room showcases an Earl Reiback artwork between nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, offering unobstructed northern city views. A Manhattan apartment’s master bath, designed by Cooper, Robertson & Partners and De la Torre Design Studio, is clad in Jerusalem Gold stone and features custom-made mirrored cabinets. A Sagaponack, New York, home by Christoff:Finio Architecture has a dining area with a Geoff Kuzara mobile and vintage Walter Gropius chairs, situated to take advantage of natural light. Lastly, a Shelter Island, New York, master bedroom by Michael Haverland Architect and Philip Galanes is lined with Carolyn Ray wallpaper and benefits from significant window space, and a New York City living room by Len Morgan features a George III sofa and antique Irish armchairs, illuminated by the natural light from the windows. #FloorToCeilingWindows #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalFeatures #LuxuryHomes #ModernLiving #ResidentialArchitecture #StunningViews

Light and Air Architecture (L/AND/A), a Brooklyn-based studio, has completed a significant renovation of a 2,700-square-foot (251-square-meter) row house, originally built in the 1880s in the Bedford Stuyvesant (Bed Stuy) neighborhood. The project, named Switchback House, focuses on redesigning the interior around a new structural stairwell, aiming to address the inherent challenges of traditional row houses, which are often characterized by their dark, narrow, and divided spaces. The renovation strategically replaces the original stacked stair with a more dynamic "switchback" staircase. This design alteration is central to the project's goal of enhancing natural light penetration and visual connectivity throughout the home. A key element of this transformation is the installation of a 14-foot (four-meter) skylight directly above the new vertical stair volume. This skylight is designed to flood the interior with natural light, which then cascades down through the various levels of the house, thanks to the reconfigured stairwell. To facilitate the new staircase and improve structural integrity, steel beams were integrated at each of the three storeys. These beams reinforce the existing joists and enabled the doubling of the staircase's original opening, thereby creating a more expansive and open vertical circulation space. The switchback design also allowed for the removal of a traditional hallway that typically connected stacked stairs, resulting in a continuous 32-foot-high (10-meter) volume that visually unites the three floors. Additionally, other interior walls were eliminated to create open-plan living areas, further contributing to the sense of spaciousness. The interior aesthetic of the Switchback House is characterized by a minimal approach, complemented by warm material choices. The existing wooden spools and railings of the original staircase were replaced with solid white guardrails, harmonizing with the overall minimalist theme. American white oak flooring is used throughout, along with other timber accents that add warmth and texture to the spaces. The ground floor features a living room and a kitchen with a dining area, separated by a storage area and a powder room. The kitchen cabinetry includes lower timber units that match the flooring, tables, and chairs, contrasted with white storage units and white marble countertops. A large black pendant light by Brendan Ravenhill hangs above the dining table, serving as a focal point. The first floor accommodates a large bedroom and a bathroom, while the upper level houses three additional rooms and another bathroom. These stacked floor plans highlight the narrow footprint typical of row houses, with a private garden situated at the rear of the building. Light and Air Architecture noted that the house was found in disrepair, with much of its historic detailing removed and the original layout having been modified into a rooming house with multiple small apartments. This presented an opportunity to reimagine the potential of an urban townhouse, transforming a historically grand but subsequently neglected space into a bright, open, and visually interconnected contemporary home. This project is part of a broader trend of property renovations in New York City that often involve significant alterations to staircases to enhance light and open up interiors, as seen in various other Brooklyn and New York City projects. #SwitchbackHouse #BrooklynRenovation #StaircaseDesign #NaturalLight #OpenPlanLiving #NewYorkCityArchitecture #ResidentialInterior #HomeRenovation #MinimalistInterior

The Act of Quad design studio has undertaken a renovation project for a 101-square-metre high-rise apartment in Thane, India, introducing vibrant cobalt-blue accents to an otherwise neutral-toned interior. The apartment serves as a residence for a middle-aged couple, their two daughters, and a pet cat. The renovation involved several structural modifications, including the removal of a wall in the entrance area to expand the dining space and the extension of the third bedroom using a convex partition. To soften the architectural lines, sharp corners near the ceiling were rounded off. The studio also designed and integrated a variety of bespoke furnishings into the apartment. These custom pieces include a three-legged dining table topped with quartz, an L-shaped sofa in a muted grey tone, and a suspended swing positioned by the windows, offering inhabitants a relaxed spot to enjoy city views. The cobalt-blue elements are strategically dispersed throughout the interior, appearing in various forms such as a tubular pendant light in the living room and the laminate covering an arched drinks cupboard. Additionally, one of the dining chairs features blue piping on its seat cushion and a corresponding arched backrest. Priyanka Itadkar and Falguni Bhatia, leaders of The Act of Quad, noted that the clients initially expressed reservations about using cobalt blue in their home, considering it an unconventional choice for a residential setting. However, the clients' perception shifted positively post-renovation, with them now stating that they cannot envision their home without the distinctive blue hue. This color theme extends to the younger daughter's bedroom, where a slim, wall-mounted rail is painted cobalt blue. Two back cushions are hung from this rail, allowing the bed to serve a dual purpose as a sofa during the day. This room also incorporates a blue cubby for the family's cat, built into the wardrobe, and a geometric chair made from repurposed on-site waste materials, tucked under the desk. In contrast, the older daughter's bedroom maintains a predominantly crisp white aesthetic, with a peachy-pink niche for a work table and matching orbs on the wardrobe for storage. The parents' bedroom was conceived to evoke the ambiance of wood-lined hotel suites, reminiscent of their holidays in northern India. Birch plywood was used extensively for floor-to-ceiling storage units, the bed frame, and the headboard, contributing to a warmer atmosphere. The en-suite bathroom in this room is clad in veiny brown stone, while the primary family bathroom features cobalt-blue tiles and an organically shaped mirror above the sink. This project highlights The Act of Quad's approach to incorporating bold color choices and custom designs to personalize living spaces, transforming client perceptions of color in residential interiors. #ApartmentInterior #Thane #India #Renovation #CobaltBlue #BespokeFurniture #TheActOfQuad #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome

This blog post from the "Make It Nice" series addresses interior design dilemmas, specifically focusing on ceiling fans, multi-use workspaces, and challenging bedroom layouts. It provides advice based on reader questions. The first reader, Alyssa, seeks a replacement for an ugly ceiling fan in her 110-year-old Craftsman-style home. She desires a fan that aligns with her home's aesthetic, preferably with a light but not necessarily, and avoids plastic. The recommendation is to select a ceiling fan that blends into the ceiling, rather than standing out. Minka Aire's modern low-profile models are suggested, along with their traditional-style fans. Specific models with and without lights are mentioned, noting that integrated LED lights can sometimes appear cold. The article advises checking for local dealers since direct ordering is not available. Alex presents a challenge for a large, two-room top-floor bedroom intended to function as both an office/craft room/studio and a guest bedroom. Key constraints include skylights on one side making it brighter, a desire for a large dining table as a workspace, flexibility for various activities (computer work, podcasting, writing, sewing, painting, weaving), existing large closets for storage, and an undecided paint color. The advice suggests retaining the room's current color, similar to Emily Bode and Aaron Aujla's apartment, and painting the ceilings and brick wall in the same hue. For the workspace, a dining table placed centrally under the skylights and anchored by a rug (a gold one is suggested) is recommended. The article notes that a taller table height might be beneficial for sitting and standing work, suggesting DIY solutions like adding furniture feet. A built-in desktop in the window nook, stained to match existing bookshelves, is proposed for a dedicated desk area. An adjustable task chair, specifically a HÅG Capisco, is recommended for its versatility, noting its high cost but potential availability at lower prices on marketplaces. For the guest area, a "boneless sofa" like the Teddy Sofa or a more affordable Wayfair option is suggested, paired with a colorful rug, such as one from IKEA. Storage is left to Alex's discretion, with the advice to assess needs and then find coated metal or woven bins that fit the shelves and closets. The third reader, Aaron, is navigating the design of a small, upstairs bungalow bedroom in his first home, shared with his wife. Concerns include minimizing claustrophobia in a room with a seven-foot ceiling and sloped side walls (three feet high before the roofline), and an impractical closet due to the roof angle. The main challenge is bed placement, as a queen bed blocks the window and side walls are too low for a headboard. The article advises placing the bed against the window wall with a super-low bed frame, such as the Floyd, and custom-building a wall-to-wall headboard with integrated nightstands and optional shelving. For the closet, extending it and making it open towards the bed with open shelving on one side and double hanging on the other is suggested. Dressers and a small vanity for a laptop or makeup could fit by the stairs, though measurements are crucial. The article concludes that a reading nook might not be feasible with the existing storage needs, requiring prioritization. For color, butter yellow, specifically "Disco Nap" from Backdrop, is recommended to create a warm atmosphere, with a suggestion to test paint samples. #InteriorDesign #CeilingFans #SmallSpaces #HomeDecor #BedroomLayout #WorkspaceDesign #StorageSolutions #Bungalow

Falken Reynolds' latest residential design project in Vancouver's historic Gastown neighborhood draws inspiration from Canadian igloos to create a highly functional and compact living space. The apartment, just under 600 square feet, strategically incorporates extensive storage solutions and a hidden loft bedroom to maximize its small footprint. The design concept directly references the tightened entryway of an igloo, translated into a central corridor that neatly separates the main living area from the entrance, bathroom, and office space. The main living area is characterized by its light and bright aesthetic. White walls and two large windows are key elements that enhance the sense of openness and reflect natural light throughout the interior, preventing the compact space from feeling confined. This intentional choice of color and light manipulation contributes significantly to the overall spacious feel of the apartment. A central storage structure serves as the backbone of the apartment's organizational strategy. This integrated unit is remarkably comprehensive, housing two five-foot closets, a laundry area, a dedicated drying closet, a refrigerator, and multiple pantries. Beyond its storage capabilities, this structure ingeniously conceals a staircase that provides access to the hidden loft bedroom, an innovative solution for space-saving and creating a distinct sleeping zone. The kitchen area features minimal cabinetry, designed for efficiency and aesthetic cleanliness. The matte blue doors and hidden pulls contribute to a sleek, uncluttered look. By consolidating much of the storage within the central white unit, the need for extensive upper cabinetry is reduced, with only a single upper cabinet positioned above the stove to accommodate the vent. This design choice maintains clean lines and prevents the kitchen from feeling visually heavy. Over the dining table, a Bocci 28.7 fixture adds a touch of modern elegance. The dining area is designed to comfortably seat eight people, demonstrating the apartment's surprising capacity for entertaining despite its small size. This project by Falken Reynolds exemplifies how clever design, drawing from unexpected sources like igloos, can transform limited square footage into a highly livable, organized, and aesthetically pleasing home. The apartment successfully integrates functionality, storage, and a bright, open atmosphere through thoughtful architectural and interior design choices. #SmallSpaceLiving #LoftApartment #VancouverDesign #IglooInspired #FalkenReynolds #SpaceSavingSolutions #CompactLiving #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture

Amidst the challenging early months of the invasion of Ukraine, an apartment in Kyiv underwent a transformative renovation, showcasing both creativity and resilience. The '2BM Apartment' project, led by architects Volodymyr Petrunok, Roman Savchuk, and Olexandra Alioshkina of TOP LAB Interiors, aimed to create a vibrant and functional living space despite budget constraints. The 560-square-foot apartment was designed for rental purposes, prompting a resourceful approach to materials and a bold experimentation with color. The design philosophy for the 2BM Apartment centered on trust and a willingness to take risks with unconventional aesthetics. The client's initial skepticism about a particular shade of green for the kitchen cabinets ultimately paved the way for an exploration of diverse colors and materials throughout the space. This bold choice became a defining characteristic of the project, establishing a lively and unconventional atmosphere. Primary colors are strategically employed to create visual interest and delineate different zones within the apartment. The kitchen features vibrant green cabinets juxtaposed with white square tiles and blue grout, creating a striking focal point. In the open living area, contrasting bright blue curtains provide balance and depth, complementing the bold kitchen design. The dining area continues this theme with a red pedestal table and matching red artwork on the wall. The bedroom offers a calmer ambiance with warm-toned walls and textiles, yet still incorporates a pop of color through a Yves Klein blue colored shelf. Resourcefulness is evident in a bedside table crafted from leftover tiles. A hidden element of surprise is introduced with a cherry red interior for the closet, revealed when the floor-to-ceiling white curtains are opened. The entrance features a bold blue sliding door made of polycarbonate plastic, echoing the blue tile grout used elsewhere in the apartment. The bathroom maintains the colorful concept with a yellow glass partition for the shower/tub, a red cabinet supporting the sink, and the consistent blue grout application. These deliberate color choices and material selections transform the compact apartment into a dynamic and visually engaging space, demonstrating that design innovation can flourish even under challenging circumstances. #KyivApartment #InteriorDesign #PrimaryColors #SmallSpaceDesign #ColorfulInteriors #ModernDesign #TOPLABInteriors #DesignInnovation