A Sierra Retreat That Lets the Landscape Do the Talking—With a Little Gingham for Good Measure

The article details the creation of Whimsy Valley, the Western North Carolina mountain retreat of photographer and historic preservationist Perry Vaile. Vaile and her husband embarked on a long journey to find and build their dream mountain home, ultimately settling on a property near Burnsville after a previous attempt in Chimney Rock was thwarted by a landslide specialist's warning, which proved prescient when the property was destroyed by Hurricane Helene. This experience highlighted the importance of thorough environmental assessments before purchasing land for construction. With the new property, Vaile collaborated with local contractor Chris Jarrett over two years to construct a home that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Her background in historic preservation influenced the architectural choices, such as incorporating bark siding as a nod to late 1800s architect Henry Bacon, who popularized this style in Linville, North Carolina. This design decision aimed to give the new build vernacular sensitivity and integrate it respectfully into the region's architectural history. The interior design reflects Vaile's photography career, lending her an eye for creating visually compelling spaces. She combined antique pieces, diverse patterns, and a carefully curated color palette to achieve a timeless yet whimsical atmosphere. The living room features vaulted ceilings, providing a sense of grandeur and allowing for the inclusion of a stained-glass window sourced from a decommissioned church, which casts magical light when illuminated by the south-facing sun. The kitchen is designed to evoke warmth and character, channeling an "eccentric grandma" aesthetic. A William Morris patterned backsplash complements soft blue cupboards, adding texture and personality to the space. The master bedroom is built around a blue patterned wallpaper, inspired by an inn Vaile photographed, and features antique doors from an architectural salvage center in New Orleans. For her daughters' bedroom, Vaile aimed for a playful yet chic English bed and breakfast feel, incorporating gingham curtains and wallpaper from House of Hackney, with wood paneling completed by Vaile and her husband. Outdoor elements were also carefully considered. Vaile, who always desired to live near water, created an artificial stream that mimics natural rock formations and winds through the yard, providing a soothing soundscape and a scenic place to relax. The master bathroom features a copper tub as a focal point and an antique dresser with a marble countertop and stone sink, a resourceful find from Facebook Marketplace. The home also includes a wraparound deck equipped with rocking chairs, designed to offer expansive views of the surrounding mountains. The property is further enlivened by six miniature ponies, which roam the grounds, adding to the idyllic, storybook ambiance of Whimsy Valley, where Vaile's mother also resides in a nearby cabin, fostering a nostalgic, close-knit family environment. #MountainRetreat #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #WesternNorthCarolina #WhimsyValley #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHome #OutdoorLiving

This article details the design and aesthetic choices made by designer Lindye Galloway for a contemporary ranch house in California, focusing on achieving a balance between coziness for a family of five and spaciousness for entertaining guests. The seven-bedroom, eleven-bathroom home is divided into two distinct wings, one for children and one for adults, with the primary kitchen acting as a central hub for social gatherings. The kitchen features a double island for cooking and dining, complemented by a butler's and walk-in pantry to maintain tidiness and provide ample storage. The home also includes a breakfast nook for relaxed mornings and a sleek bar for evening drinks. A key design objective was to blend the family's preference for an earthy, streamlined style with maximum functionality. Galloway aimed to create an inviting atmosphere that avoids the sterile feel of a museum, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and practical use for everyday living and hosting. A neutral color palette, inspired by the surrounding natural landscape, was applied throughout the property, establishing a calming ambiance and allowing the outdoor views to be a focal point through large windows. The interior design incorporates a mix of custom-made furniture, such as a family-sized sectional, and vintage pieces like planters, which contribute character and charm. Durable materials, including marble kitchen counters and limestone bathroom flooring, were selected for longevity and to develop a timeless aesthetic. Beyond the main residence, the property extends its entertaining capabilities with a pool cabana and an outdoor kitchen, offering spaces for dining and relaxation by the pool. A private, detached two-bedroom guest house further enhances the property's suitability for hosting, making it a comprehensive gathering spot for family and friends. The article provides a detailed room-by-room breakdown, beginning with the entry, where glass-and-steel doors open to a limestone patio, adorned with vintage planters. The family room features neutral furnishings with varying textures to enhance coziness without distracting from natural light and backyard views. The kitchen's design includes black powder-coated metal elements contrasting with light oak and marble, and a custom raked plaster range hood adds texture. Practical spaces like pantries are equipped with custom cabinetry and fluted glass doors for organization. The breakfast nook is designed for comfort with a custom banquette, while the bar features dark walnut cabinetry and Noir Francia marble for a bold, moody effect. The primary bedroom prioritizes tranquility with a neutral palette, rich accents, and blended textures, including a custom headboard and specialized lighting. The primary bathroom serves as a spa-like retreat with white oak cabinetry, a fireplace framed by Calacatta Paonazzo marble, and a large soaking tub, alongside his-and-hers vanities. The daughter's bedroom incorporates muted pink tones through artwork and fabrics, maintaining an age-appropriate yet sophisticated feel. Guest bedrooms in the detached house reflect the surrounding olive grove with neutral palettes and touches of green, taupe, and brown, featuring custom beds and carefully selected lighting and furniture. The outdoor kitchen is equipped with a trough sink and high-end appliances, while the pool area offers multiple seating arrangements, emphasizing both sun exposure and shaded comfort, all within a cohesive and thoughtfully designed environment. #CaliforniaRanch #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #LindyeGalloway #NeutralPalette #CustomFurniture #EntertainingSpace #OutdoorLiving

This article details the design and aesthetic choices made for a private hunting lodge located in rural Louisiana, north of Baton Rouge. The project involved a collaboration between Baton Rouge-based architect Mark Matthews, design consultant Allyson Hicks of Allyson Hicks Design Consulting, and contractors Ryan Crum and Noah Wilson of Waterfront Custom Homes. The primary goal was to create a retreat that functions both as a family getaway and a hunting destination for friends, blending rustic elements with a refined, timeless appeal. The lodge is designed for large groups, featuring a main living area with a vaulted ceiling and antique beams, a casual dining space, and a kitchen accessible through an arched brick opening. In addition to a large primary bedroom, there are four guestrooms and a bunkroom equipped with four twin beds. Each guestroom boasts a unique design, avoiding the uniformity of a hotel, while the overall layout allows for flexible separation of family and guests. Public areas prioritize both entertainment and practicality, including a game room, a bar, an open-concept living and dining area, and a fully appointed outdoor kitchen. A large mudroom provides private, lockable closets for guests to store gear, and a separate drop zone is designated for hunters to shed muddy attire. The exterior features a lakefront area with deep porches, a putting green, and a firepit surrounded by Adirondack chairs. Allyson Hicks faced the challenge of incorporating design elements that reflect Louisiana's heritage and the lodge's purpose without resorting to a typical casual hunting camp aesthetic. The homeowner's preferences, such as a fondness for gray and a dislike for gold, guided the color palette and material selection. Gray tones were used on walls and trim, and metal finishes like polished nickel, gunmetal, and black iron were chosen. Louisiana-specific elements, such as exposed beams and old brick, were integrated into the design. A key aspect of the design involved balancing rustic and contemporary styles to ensure a current yet timeless look. Hicks achieved this by mixing worn, vintage-looking pieces with more streamlined furniture. Antique woods were a prominent feature, with weathered shiplap used for the outdoor kitchen ceiling, antique beadboard for accent walls, and antique doors complementing new stained alder wood doors. The bunkroom, designed for younger guests, incorporates remnants from the lodge’s wood beams and flooring for stair treads and upper-bunk railings, alongside shiplap walls and built-in storage. The refined-meets-rustic aesthetic extended to the use of galvanized metal, mirroring the lodge's roof indoors. Artisan Josh Guillory created a custom galvanized metal range hood for the kitchen, and light fixtures with a similar matte metal appearance were selected for the bar area. The kitchen also features oversized nickel handles on drawers and cabinets to introduce a masculine touch, alongside Mont Blanc quartzite countertops and a textured Milas white marble tile backsplash with chiseled edges. Lighting was thoughtfully curated to combine streamlined fixtures with cruder pieces that fit the rural environment, ensuring the lodge serves as a comfortable and inviting haven throughout the year. #HuntingLodge #RuralRetreat #InteriorDesign #LouisianaDesign #RusticChic #FamilyGetaway #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHomes #TimelessDesign

Megan and Tyler Duncan, residing in Shakopee with their three young children, aspired to create a year-round lake retreat on Bone Lake in Luck, Wisconsin, near Tyler's parents' cabin. Their vision for the new home included ample shoreline views, a wooded lot, and an interior that would seamlessly blend the outdoors with natural materials and expansive windows. The couple sought a cozy and comfortable environment, with the kitchen as a central gathering space, alongside various quiet nooks for individual relaxation. In 2013, an existing one-room cabin adjacent to Tyler's parents' property became available, prompting the Duncans to accelerate their plans. The Duncans enlisted a collaborative team: Stonewood in Wayzata for design, B & H Builders in Cushing, Wisconsin, for construction, and Martha O’Hara Interiors in St. Louis Park for interior design and furnishings. The 5,000-square-foot home, completed in 2016, exemplifies rustic sophistication, incorporating reclaimed millwork, natural stone, and an airy, neutral color scheme. Martha O’Hara highlighted the textural and natural construction materials throughout the house, particularly the reclaimed barn wood used in the living room, dining room, and kitchen. These three open-plan rooms are unified by reclaimed wood beams, posts, and ceilings. A river rock fireplace in the living room complements the ceiling beams, while the kitchen features a hearth-like surround for the range. An open-weave rope chandelier above the dining table and wicker kitchen stools introduce additional natural textures. To prevent the windowless kitchen from feeling enclosed, interior designers Kristy Conlin, Andrea Surtel, and Bhavana Bhimavarapu opted for crisp white subway tiles on some walls and open shelving in place of upper cabinets, creating a spacious and light aesthetic. A dark gray soapstone island and hickory and oak cabinets add contrasting colors and textures, balancing the rugged beams. The adjacent hearth room, built with wood reclaimed from a shed on the property, offers a practical space for children. A screen porch with a fireplace provides an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying lake and wood views. The family room, featuring plaid, wool, fur, and reclaimed wood accents, offers a warm setting for movie nights. The house includes four bedrooms, with the master bedroom serving as a private retreat, complete with a natural stone fireplace, white wood panels, and a balcony overlooking the lake. The home also caters to children with a reading nook in the attic and a secret fort accessible through a child-sized door in one bedroom. The basement provides ample entertainment options, including video games, ping-pong, and movies, along with a guest bedroom and a spacious bunk room. Throughout the residence, wood is integrated with varied designs and finishes, such as blue-stained panels in one bathroom, horizontal striping in another, and log walls with chinking in the foyer. The design team aimed to give each space a distinct identity while maintaining overall coherence, ensuring material integrity and suitability for each area. The Duncans utilize the cabin year-round, finding it a favorite place for family and friends, offering both communal areas and individual spaces for relaxation, making it a true retreat. #RusticDesign #LakeHome #InteriorDesign #ReclaimedWood #NaturalMaterials #FamilyRetreat #WisconsinArchitecture #Stonewood #MarthaOHaraInteriors

This article details the interior design project undertaken by ELLE DECOR A-List Titan Sheila Bridges for a New York City couple's new 8,000-square-foot house in Vermont. The couple, enamored with Vermont's natural beauty and architectural heritage, decided to build a new residence on a sprawling 240-acre plot despite the initial challenge of accessibility. They selected Bridges for her expertise in layering and texture, a skill they admired after seeing her work featured in ELLE DECOR. The house, designed by Burlington-based TruexCullins and completed in 2023, is a Greek Revival structure mirroring traditional 19th-century New England connected farms. The layout includes a central rectangular section with the husband’s library, an office, and a parlor for the wife, with four bedrooms upstairs. What began as an occasional ski trip destination has evolved into a frequent retreat for the couple, their adult children, and friends. A double-height, barn-like space with undecorated walls serves as a venue for larger gatherings, while the great room and kitchen form the heart of daily family life, with the primary suite located above. Bridges's design approach was uniquely inspired by the distinct leafy-green hue of the Vermont license plate, a color prominently featured in the Morris & Co. Blackthorn Autumn wallpaper, which covers the kitchen cabinets and extends into the great room. This choice reflects Bridges’s deep connection to nature, drawing from her childhood experiences in Vermont and her personal residences in the Hudson Valley and Iceland, where she keeps horses. The flora and fauna theme is pervasive throughout the house. Barn swallows adorn a downstairs powder room, while vines and butterflies embellish another. Custom Roman shades in the great room also feature animal motifs. Upstairs, bedrooms display cheeky prints, with one showcasing prancing deer and another depicting skiers zooming down slopes. Bridges emphasizes her commitment to originality, stating that in her 30 years as a designer, she strives never to reuse the same pattern or textile. This dedication to bespoke design is evident in the wife’s parlor, where the focus shifts to botanical prints on an earthy chinoiserie grass-cloth toile by Scalamandré, intentionally designed to be pattern-light. The primary suite, which offers the best views, is conceived as a serene, green sanctuary, underscoring Bridges’s desire for the new build to convey a sense of history rooted not just in human narratives but also in nature, acknowledging the land's past as a forest. This story was originally featured in the Winter 2025 issue of ELLE DECOR. #SheilaBridges #VermontDesign #InteriorDesign #MountainHouse #ArchitecturalHeritage #NatureInspiredDesign #CustomInteriors #PatternAndColor #ElleDecor

In early 2022, Brooklyn-based designer Whitney Parris-Lamb discovered a century-old cabin in the Hudson Valley, which had remained unsold despite its potential. Her business partner, Amanda Jesse, initially harbored reservations due to the cottage's extensive deferred maintenance and haphazard additions over the years. However, Jesse recognized Parris-Lamb’s talent for revitalizing properties, and the duo, who co-founded the design firm Jesse Parris-Lamb, proceeded with the acquisition and renovation. Their firm is known for creating elegantly refined yet cozy spaces, characterized by bespoke furnishings and tactile materials like terra cotta tiles and cork wallpaper. The renovation of the 2,500-square-foot cottage was approached with a commitment to preserving its original character, a promise Parris-Lamb made to the previous owner. The rambling floor plan was largely kept intact, with one significant alteration: a doorway in the vaulted living room was relocated by four feet. This seemingly minor adjustment, suggested by Jesse, created visual symmetry and cleared the line of sight to the striking stone fireplace, unlocking the room's potential and improving furniture placement. The interior design prioritized a curated blend of existing pieces, family heirlooms, and items Parris-Lamb had collected over time. The living room, for instance, features antique Arts and Crafts chairs passed down from Parris-Lamb’s great-grandmother, now reupholstered in a whimsical Décors Barbares motif. A vintage teak-framed sofa, clad in camel velvet, and an Ikea sofa with a custom golden stripe slipcover from Bemz, highlight the emphasis on comfort for a weekend retreat. A cocktail table fashioned by Parris-Lamb’s mother from a family heirloom dining table, and a spherical Noguchi paper lantern, add personal and modern touches to the rustic space. The kitchen and dining area, an addition from the 1980s, required less structural work. The existing pine cabinets were retained, but the floors were refinished and updated with handmade terra-cotta tiles from Zia Tile in various shades of green, complemented by leather cabinet pulls from Spinneybeck. This area, which sold Parris-Lamb on the house, features warm wooden panels and a corner with floor-to-ceiling stonework housing a retro wood-burning stove. The antique wooden dining table, a bequest from the former owner known for hosting large gatherings, serves as a centerpiece, juxtaposed with a suite of mid-century George Nakashima chairs from Knoll. A custom plaster pendant by London artist Alexandra Robinson adds an organically shaped, slightly cockeyed element above the table. The overall color scheme of the cottage leans towards understated, muddy, and warm natural shades, a departure from the firm's typically bolder aesthetic. This evolved organically, reflecting Parris-Lamb’s desire for a quieter, more neutral home and a methodical process of furnishing. The house became a destination for beloved, disparate pieces accumulated over time, creating an atmosphere that feels organically sourced from antique barns in areas like Asheville or the Catskills. #HudsonValley #CottageRenovation #InteriorDesign #RusticCharm #HistoricPreservation #JesseParrisLamb #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #SustainableDesign

The Interior Design's Giants of Design Retreat convened nearly 50 designers in Joshua Tree National Park for a three-day event held from March 2-4 at AutoCamp Joshua Tree, California. The retreat focused on restorative experiences and discussions from industry experts. Editor in Chief Cindy Allen initiated the event by encouraging attendees to engage in a playful exercise, challenging them to consider four-letter words in a novel way to foster fresh perspectives. She shared her personal 'four-letter word' as 'edit,' explaining its relevance to both her professional and personal life, highlighting the importance of removing unnecessary elements to make space for new growth. This exercise prompted other attendees to share their own insights on words like 'note,' 'save,' 'talk,' and 'undo,' encouraging a deeper reflection on their meanings and applications. One of the initial sessions featured Michael Luft-Weissberg from Workshop/APD and Meena Krenek from HKS Architects, who discussed the design philosophy behind AutoCamp properties. They detailed how AutoCamp consistently reinvents itself, emphasizing the integration of each location with its natural surroundings. Workshop/APD, which collaborated on AutoCamp sites in Cape Cod and the Catskills, found these projects to be a unique hybrid of residential scale and ground-up construction, blending the intimacy of home with the functionality of a hotel. For the Joshua Tree location, HKS Architects focused on creating a curated collective community while ensuring individual experiences, with bespoke chairs from local manufacturers and locally sourced textiles, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. This approach transforms each AutoCamp into an indoor-outdoor oasis, seamlessly merging with the desert landscape. The retreat also included a presentation by Stuart Mangrum, director of the philosophical center at the Burning Man Project and host of the Burning Man Live podcast. Mangrum highlighted the design principles behind Black Rock City, an ephemeral city of 75,000 people that is constructed and dismantled annually without leaving a trace. He underscored four key design ideas: organic and adaptive design, collaboration, iterative design, and alignment with Burning Man's 10 core principles, which include radical inclusion, gifting, and decommodification. These principles encourage participants to challenge conventional thinking and explore alternative ways of doing things, echoing the spirit of innovative design. Musician Allen Stone shared his perspective on success and authenticity, defining it as staying true to oneself. He explained his songwriting process as a form of therapy, aiming for honesty and realness that he can consistently bring to the stage. Stone encouraged attendees to find their unique voice, acknowledging that this journey can be lifelong, drawing inspiration from others while developing an individual message. He also spoke about detaching from his creations, viewing himself as a vessel through which art flows, allowing it to resonate with those who experience it. The final session convened local experts, including Brad Wilson of Atelier Ace, Bernard Leibov of BoxoPROJECTS, and Alison Carroll of Wonder Valley, to discuss the creative community in Joshua Tree. They emphasized the dynamic and demanding nature of the desert environment, highlighting its critical role in carbon capture and the importance of respecting its natural rhythms. The panelists shared how the desert fosters creativity and a sense of community, noting that the harsh conditions necessitate greater mutual dependence. The discussion also touched upon the prevalence of art installations made from reused objects, such as those found at the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum of Assemblage Art, indicating that the desert inherently promotes recycling and resourcefulness. The collective sentiment was that while the desert attracts creative individuals, it also tests and refines them, underscoring the resilience and interconnectedness required to thrive in such a unique landscape. #DesignRetreat #JoshuaTree #AutoCamp #HospitalityDesign #SustainableDesign #BurningMan #CommunityBuilding #DesertInspiration #InteriorDesign

The Ishawooa Mesa Ranch in Wyoming is home to a new architectural creation by Lake Flato, designed to be both a sanctuary and a tribute to its wild, majestic surroundings. Located within the Shoshone National Forest, near Yellowstone National Park, the ranch experiences extreme weather conditions, from scorching summers to harsh winters, necessitating a robust and thoughtfully constructed home for its owners and the diverse animal life on its 200-plus acres, including horses, cattle, hogs, chickens, and occasional bears. Steve Raike, a partner at Lake Flato, emphasizes that the design aims for 'thoughtful luxury' while acknowledging the area's inherent wildness. The inspiration for the ranch house draws from the traditional homestead-style log cabins prevalent in the region, which were historically built using locally sourced, readily available materials. This tradition is reinterpreted in the new home through the use of thick cedar wood for part of the façade, stained black to echo the creosote once used to protect older timber structures. Stone, sourced from Montana, further roots the house in its regional context, embodying a 'humble' conceptual approach to the exterior. Internally, the residence transitions into an environment of sophisticated comfort, a balance of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The interior layout features a central, double-height lounge, kitchen, and dining area, around which all other main rooms are arranged. A monumental fireplace serves as the focal point of this communal space. The homeowners collaborated with interior designer Marnie Wright to select furnishings that align with the home's aesthetic, heavily featuring wood, leather, and steel. The kitchen, notably, is equipped with a roaring fire and a built-in Argentinian grill, designed for large family gatherings. These cook-ups became a regular part of the construction process, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where the architectural team and owners discussed the evolving design. A significant aspect of the project was its commitment to sustainability, which Lake Flato refers to as 'building performance.' This philosophy, shared by the ranch's owners who manage their land organically and support local wildlife preservation, guided critical decisions. The property operates entirely on electricity, utilizing a ground-source pump for both heating and cooling, a choice that Raike proudly notes as a 'rejection of fossil fuels' in a region often associated with traditional energy sources. This approach reflects a forward-thinking environmental consciousness integrated into the home's core design. Adjacent to the main house and connected by a sheltered courtyard stands a large timber-framed barn. While primarily functional for equipment storage and crop processing, it has also served as an event venue, showcasing its versatility. The barn's design, with pull-back doors, allows for expansive panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, which are also visible through the carefully positioned windows of the main residence. Raike highlights that the design enables occupants to 'appreciate and inhabit the landscape without feeling tiny, insignificant, and at the mercy of the elements,' underscoring the harmonious relationship between the architecture and its spectacular natural setting. #WyomingRanch #LakeFlato #SustainableArchitecture #RusticLuxury #RegionalDesign #EnvironmentalConsciousness #ShoshoneNationalForest #HighAltitudeLiving #ThoughtfulLuxury

This article details the transformation of a 2,000-square-foot prewar apartment in Park Slope, Brooklyn, designed by Williamsburg-based artist and designer Leyden Lewis. The apartment, located in a 1929 building on Prospect Park West designed by architect Emery Roth, was renovated to combine elegance with accessibility for a nonagenarian client. Lewis, who has a BFA in architecture from Parsons and teaches at various design schools, emphasized craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout the project. A central aspect of the renovation was to create a barrier-free environment, making the apartment easily navigable by walker or wheelchair. This was achieved by eliminating door saddles and incorporating numerous curved surfaces, which Lewis noted also contribute to a sense of calm and safety by reducing sharp, 90-degree corners. These curves are prominent in design elements such as a kitchen ceiling soffit and a living room fireplace, replacing previously rectilinear shapes and fostering a tranquil atmosphere within the urban setting. Significant structural changes included converting a traditional closed-off kitchen into a modern, open-concept space. Architectural details, such as plaster cove moldings, were meticulously restored or recreated to honor the apartment's original character. The design incorporated a variety of luxurious finishes, such as leather floors in the entry foyer and bronze-clad steel door surrounds for new pocket doors featuring laminated textured-glass inserts. S. Hertz and 9 Co. served as the general contractor for the renovation. The entry foyer features leather hides from Edelman Leather, cut into tiles and treated with butcher’s wax for durability. Contemporary horsehair-covered benches from Donzella complement this space. Throughout the apartment, ordinary doors were replaced with wide bronze-clad steel pocket doors with textured-glass inserts, fabricated by Brooklyn-based Face Design. In the dining room, a limestone floor from Stone Source is juxtaposed with walls upholstered in iridescent silk from Jim Thompson. The living room's curved fireplace, a custom creation made from exterior-grade concrete, serves as a sculptural focal point, anchoring the room with its soft lines. Furnishings in this area include a custom silk rug from Joseph Carini, a contemporary sofa from Donghia, vintage 1960s armchairs from Donzella, and a coffee table from Horseman Antiques. The client's existing dining set was integrated into the new design, and the dining room drapes are made from gold and bronze sheer striped fabric by Jack Lenor Larsen. The master bedroom features silk-wallpapered walls and is illuminated by an Ingo Maurer light fixture. The kitchen's design includes a curved peninsula with a quartzite countertop from Stone Source, and a ceiling soffit that harmonizes with an existing circular plumbing stack. A chandelier from jGood Design enhances the kitchen's aesthetic. Opposite the kitchen, a 1950s French confectioner’s cabinet from Conjeaud & Chappey provides storage. The bathroom, while fully compliant with ADA standards, maintains the apartment's elegant aesthetic. It features custom sandblasted steel grab bars and other metalwork by Face Design, teak shower details, Waterworks hardware, and tiles from Walker Zanger. The project successfully blends high-end design with practical accessibility, resulting in a sophisticated and comfortable home. #InteriorDesign #ParkSlope #PrewarApartment #AccessibleDesign #LuxuryInteriors #LeydenLewis #BrooklynHome #Renovation #CustomFurniture

The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga offers a unique accommodation experience nestled within the natural landscape of Taronga Zoo Sydney. Guests can choose from a range of thoughtfully designed rooms, each offering distinct views and amenities. The retreat emphasizes luxury facilities combined with sustainable practices, ensuring a comfortable stay that also considers environmental impact. All accommodations feature spacious king or twin bedding, climate control (air conditioning and heating), elegant custom furniture, and sustainable amenities free from single-use plastics. Complimentary high-speed WiFi and flat-screen TVs are standard, providing options for relaxation amid the sounds of the Taronga sanctuary. The Bushland Room provides views of iconic Australian bushland, with native birds and flora visible from the windows. Packages for this room type typically include a Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast at Me-Gal restaurant, complimentary access to Taronga Zoo Sydney, and free parking. These rooms accommodate a maximum of two adults and one child, with options for interconnecting rooms for larger families with children aged 10 and over. Amenities include a king-size bed, an open-plan ensuite with a shower, a mini-bar menu, a pull-out trundle bed (suitable for children up to age six upon request), and a baby cot (also upon request). The Animal View Room offers direct views of the Wildlife Retreat's Sanctuary, a lush habitat where Australian animals reside just outside the window. Similar to the Bushland Room, packages include a Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast, zoo access, and parking. Room capacity and amenity details mirror those of the Bushland Room, including the availability of interconnecting rooms for families. The emphasis is on providing an immersive experience, bringing guests closer to the wildlife. For those seeking panoramic vistas, the Harbour View Room presents stunning sunrise views over Taronga Zoo Sydney, extending across Sydney Harbour to include the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The package inclusions for Harbour View Rooms are consistent with the other room types. These rooms also accommodate up to two adults and one child, with family-friendly options for interconnecting rooms. All standard amenities, such as the king-size bed, open-plan ensuite, and sustainable products, are provided. For an elevated experience, the Treetop Suites are the most spacious accommodation option, featuring panoramic views and an open-plan ensuite with a freestanding bathtub. These suites are designed for ultimate comfort and include the same package benefits as the other rooms. Treetop Suites can accommodate a maximum of three adults or two adults and one child. In addition to the standard amenities, they boast a custom king-size bed and the luxurious addition of a bathtub. The Wildlife Retreat also provides Accessible Rooms, specifically designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs. These four rooms include bathrooms and shower facilities suitable for wheelchair access. The N'Gurra Lounge and Me-Gal Restaurant also feature fully accessible toilets. The Sanctuary and Wollemi Tour are wheelchair accessible, and guests can obtain an accessible Zoo Map to navigate the zoo's paths. Accessible Rooms can accommodate up to three adults or two adults and one child, offering a king-size bed and a single roll-away bed upon request, alongside all other standard room amenities. #WildlifeRetreat #TarongaZooSydney #LuxuryAccommodation #SustainableTravel #AnimalViewRooms #HarbourViews #TreetopSuites #AccessibleAccommodation #ZooStay

Marie Turner Carson of M. Elle Design and architect Bob White of Forest Studio collaborated to create a unique family getaway at Victory Ranch, near Deer Valley, Utah. The clients desired a "family camp" atmosphere, which was interpreted not as a rustic, traditional lodge, but as a luxurious yet comfortable design focusing on community, activities, and nature. The home's unconventional layout diverges from a typical lodge, featuring guest rooms designed as individual "cabins" to accommodate a multi-generational family and their guests. White's design emphasizes breaking down the traditional "big box" lodge into a compound of structures that integrate with the rolling landscape and are arranged around connecting courtyards. This innovative approach optimizes views while ensuring privacy and a continuous sense of discovery throughout the property. White conducted space planning on-site to frame views perfectly and envisioned the new build as a historic home that evolved over generations, bringing an authentic feel to the design. The collaboration with local builder Ivan Broman resulted in a structure that serves as an ideal backdrop for family gatherings, allowing everyone to feel at home with their own space, while also incorporating inventive and thoughtful details. The main entry of the house offers an intimate feel with a lower ceiling, providing a glimpse into a central courtyard rather than a dramatic, expansive entrance. This design choice encourages exploration and a gradual appreciation of the home's features. The living room, a central and open area, is anchored by a monumental plaster fireplace, which provides a visual anchor amidst painted boards. Steel elements like a sculptural wood wall and door casings balance the room. From the living room, residents can enjoy views of the river and a courtyard with a fire pit, creating a sense of connection to the outdoors. To enhance coziness, the living room features layered wool rugs and various textures in its furnishings, arranged in two sections for versatile seating. The dining room, notably dark and dramatic, is positioned on a cantilevered hallway that acts as a bridge connecting different areas of the house. This unique placement offers a slightly disorienting yet engaging experience, constantly relating to the exterior landscape. An outdoor dining area complements the interior, featuring a custom-made table large enough to seat at least 16 guests, mirroring the indoor dining capacity with flexible seating options. The kitchen is strategically located at the furthest point of the house to maximize views, offering a 180-degree panorama. Inspired by Edwin Lutyens' designs, it includes a round island and cabinetry that reinterpret Alpine style. Beyond the primary living spaces, the home includes a bar with reclaimed wine barrels and walnut panels for guests to carve their names, and a basement speakeasy, embracing a cozy, wood-clad Alpine aesthetic. The main bedroom offers serenity with a muted palette and stone walls that seamlessly blend the interior with the surrounding environment. For younger guests, there are tastefully designed bunkrooms, one with rush beds for girls and another with cot-like beds and canvas curtains for boys, evoking a summer camp feel. The design team meticulously sourced items like vintage trunks to complete the authentic, yet refined, camp aesthetic, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall theme of a luxurious and comfortable family retreat. #FamilyGetaway #LuxuryDesign #MountainHome #UtahArchitecture #MElleDesign #ForestStudio #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #AlpineStyle

In March 2020, Charlotte and Robert Henry purchased a double shotgun house in New Orleans, Charlotte's hometown, intending to transform it into a single-family home. The couple, originally from Dallas, sought to establish a family residence after their marriage, a plan that soon included two daughters, Merritt and Libby. Their renovation journey began with Chris Kornman at Entablature, a contracting firm known for its professionalism and realistic expectations. The Henrys appreciated the firm's use of an app for selections, communication, and plan sharing, which provided much-needed guidance for first-time homeowners undertaking a significant construction project. Entablature subsequently referred the Henrys to Leslie Raymond, vice president and principal, and Dan Akerley, senior project manager, at Albert Architecture. Raymond and Akerley played a crucial role in shaping the home's style and design, meticulously attending to details such as knob placements, outlet cover positioning, and trim installation. The primary goal for the remodel was to gut the existing structure and customize it to their preferences. The house was one of three identical double shotgun homes on their street, and the Henrys aimed to convert it into a single-family dwelling while ensuring a seamless flow in their primary living space, which they envisioned at the back of the house. Maximizing storage was also a priority, leading to the addition of closets in the master bathroom, front room, and hallway, as well as double closets in one of the bedrooms. A significant aspect of the renovation was the preservation of the home's historic elements. The Henrys salvaged two original bathroom windows, repurposing them for the new laundry room and a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. They also removed a second door from the double shotgun layout and created a replica of the other front windows to maintain the historical aesthetic. Raymond emphasized the team's commitment to retaining the home's historic character, even in the room layout. They largely preserved existing structural walls, strategically placing openings rather than relocating entire walls. The completed remodel successfully meets the Henry family's needs. The combined kitchen and living space has become the central hub for the family, particularly with two young children. The design allows for easy supervision of outdoor play while cooking or working. The kitchen itself was custom-designed to their specifications, featuring a large island with ample storage and a kitchen hood at a customized height for Robert. The use of two slabs of Dakar White polished quartzite for the counter and backsplash, alongside Shiloh Cabinets in Mindful Gray, creates a distinctive statement. Anne Villere of Anne Villere Designs contributed to the interior, selecting paint colors, wallpaper, drapery, and rugs. The design incorporates a calm, traditional color palette with subtle pops of greens and blues, offering a relaxing atmosphere. Despite their initial inclination towards neutrals, the Henrys embraced more bold design choices with Villere's guidance, incorporating wallpaper and playful color trims to complement the off-white walls. Carrie Knapp of Carrie Knapp Interiors later converted the guest room into a nursery, seamlessly integrating the new design with existing elements. Looking ahead, the Henrys anticipate needing more space as their family grows, considering a future camelback addition to the house, an idea initially suggested during the early planning stages. #HomeRenovation #NewOrleansHomes #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CustomKitchen #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeRemodel

The Ranch Mine, a US architectural studio based in Phoenix, has completed a holiday home called Noir Peaks in Flagstaff, northern Arizona. The house is characterized by its black, gabled forms that appear to 'burst vertically from the ground,' reflecting the surrounding volcanic landscape. The location of the property on a grassy, high-altitude plateau in Flagstaff, an area known for its mountains, aspen stands, pine forests, and a vast volcanic field, heavily influenced the design and materiality of the vacation home. The last volcanic eruption in this region occurred approximately 1,000 years ago, leaving a distinctive geological footprint. The Noir Peaks house is built on a two-acre (0.8-hectare) site and consists of a cluster of gabled forms perched on a two-foot-high concrete base. The architectural concept specifically aimed to mimic the volcanic mountains that dot the plateau, with three prominent gabled structures rising vertically. The exterior of the home features fibre-cement, board-and-batten siding, which is painted to match the dark lava rocks prevalent on the site. The spacing of the battens is intentionally varied to evoke the organic and scattered arrangement of nearby aspen trees, contributing to a seamless integration with the natural environment. The design team emphasized the economic construction of the house, stating their goal was to utilize a simple, cost-effective material that could withstand the harsh environmental conditions while achieving an elevated aesthetic through a unique batten pattern. Spanning 2,405 square feet (223 square meters), the interior layout of Noir Peaks is meticulously planned to optimize views of the majestic San Francisco Peaks. The house encompasses multiple communal spaces, a primary suite, three additional bedrooms, a mudroom, a laundry room, and a generously sized garage. The interior design adopts a neutral colour palette complemented by earthy materials such as wood and stone, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere. For instance, tongue-and-groove hemlock clads the ceilings in the great room and the primary bedroom, adding textural richness and natural beauty. Fireplaces throughout the home are faced with Texas Crème limestone, further enhancing the natural and refined aesthetic. The overall interior ambiance is designed to be cozy and restful, drawing inspiration from the Danish concept of 'hygge.' This philosophy emphasizes creating a comforting and convivial environment that promotes well-being and contentment. In line with this, the designers aimed for the home to serve as a refuge where occupants can recover, rest, reflect, and re-energize in preparation for future adventures. To enhance comfort during the colder months, radiant heated concrete floors are installed throughout the house, providing a consistently warm and pleasant daily sensation. The Ranch Mine has a history of developing projects in Arizona, including a minimalist house in Paradise Valley and a series of townhomes in Phoenix featuring brick, stucco, and weathering steel facades. #VolcanicTerrain #GabledForms #HolidayHome #ArizonaArchitecture #TheRanchMine #SustainableDesign #HyggeInterior #EarthyMaterials #ModernArchitecture

This article highlights four high-style vacation destinations in Colorado, offering a blend of adventure and sophisticated design that can inspire fresh ideas for home decor. Each location presents a unique aesthetic, from opulent Western themes to contemporary mountain chic, catering to various design preferences. The first destination, Kessler Canyon, is a 15,000-acre resort featuring five cabins and two guest suites. The design embraces a "more is more" philosophy, showcasing hotel mogul Richard Kessler's personal collection of antique guns and taxidermy. Authentic details, such as bronze-inlaid poker chips on pool tables, prevent the Western theme from becoming kitschy. The expansive wrap-around front porch with handmade rocking chairs is a notable feature. Located in De Beque, Kessler Canyon offers nightly rates ranging from $395 to $895. Dunton River Camp, nestled in the San Juan Mountains along the Dolores River, is the second featured getaway. Owned by art collectors Christoph and Katrin Henkel, this luxury campsite comprises eight tents that reflect a devotion to stylish living. Designer Christina Rossi conceived custom beds that don't sit flush with the wall to create an airier feel. The tents boast en-suite bathrooms and are adorned with cowhide rugs, Bolivian frazadas, and custom bedding from L’aviva Home. The communal 19th-century farmhouse, meticulously renovated in 2013, features quirky accessories like horsehair-stuffed rocking chairs, fish lights made from real fish, and antique milk bottles. Starting at $1,500 per night, Dunton River Camp is located in Dolores. Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, a 6,000-acre resort, is the third destination, distinguished by its locally inspired style. The design pays homage to the surrounding red-rock canyons and petroglyph-covered slickrock. Owners Maureen and John Hendricks collaborated with designer Suzanne Geibel McCammon to select a color palette that mirrors the Unaweep Canyon backdrop. Accent walls in each suite are painted with real copper and iodized to create a unique patina, while upholstered pieces and accessories feature Southwestern hues of turquoise, deep red, and soft yellow. Detailed wood case goods complement the saturated color scheme. Handcrafted Peruvian-wood barn doors are a prominent design element in the Kayenta and Casitas rooms. Rates range from $400 to $1,700 per night at this Gateway location. Finally, Scarp Ridge Lodge in Crested Butte is a 12,000-square-foot Victorian property that blends history with refined modern style. Originally an 1885 saloon and dance hall, the lodge, owned by Eleven Experience, features a restored 19th-century facade and original wooden double doors. The fully renovated six-bedroom interior exhibits exceptional craftsmanship, including a stair railing and metal chairs forged by local blacksmith Jeff Brethauer. Beams reclaimed from a Tennessee tobacco farm highlight the architecture. The decor maintains a light and chic aesthetic with a neutral palette and layered textural linens, deviating from typical mountain retreat styles. Bluestone flown in from Belgium accentuates the cool hues in the bathrooms and lobby. Summer rates start at $860 per guest per night. #ColoradoTravel #LuxuryGetaways #InteriorDesign #HomeDecorInspiration #VacationRentals #WesternDesign #MountainResorts #BoutiqueHotels

This article details the transformation of a 100-year-old American Craftsman home in the foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains by the design firm Salvesen Graham. The project was initiated when a young couple, one American and one British, relocated from California and sought a home that blended their cultural traditions, offering both relaxation and elegance without being overly formal. The designers, Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, aimed to create a comfortable yet sophisticated living space. The house, part of a community of heritage homes dating back to the early 20th century, presented a unique opportunity for Salvesen Graham, a firm more accustomed to working with buildings over 100 years old in the UK. The designers meticulously preserved and enhanced the home's period features, such as its brick and shiplap exterior and expansive veranda. Their approach balanced respect for the original architecture with a desire to update it for modern living, rather than creating a "living museum" of a 1900s mining town house. In the entryway, a small-scale patterned wallpaper contributes to a Victorian aesthetic, complemented by an Arts and Crafts lantern. The designers made a conscious decision to paint some of the original pine woodwork a sage green to neutralize its overwhelming orange tones, allowing the unpainted sections of craftsmanship to be appreciated more easily. This thoughtful intervention highlights the delicate balance between preservation and contemporary adaptation. The drawing room was designed as a sophisticated space for entertaining, with the clients actively participating in sourcing art, including an abstract floral piece. The living room, in contrast, serves as a more casual gathering area. The project was significantly impacted by the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to initial client-designer interactions via Zoom. This period also amplified the British client's desire to infuse English design elements into the American architectural style. A central pass-through space in the house was transformed into a hallway-cum-library, offering an intentional quiet zone that connects different rooms. The kitchen, designed in a Shaker style, bridges functional utilitarianism with English charm. Its formal layout was maintained, rejecting the trend of open-plan spaces, and features fitted units and a large island painted in various shades of blue. The dining room, referred to as the "hearth room," provides an informal dining experience with windows on three sides, creating a sense of dining among treetops. The space incorporates a striped floral fabric for curtains and Roman shades, aligning with painted tongue-and-groove paneling on the ceiling. Upholstered dining chairs, vintage rattan chairs, and a vibrant green built-in window seat contribute to a layered aesthetic. The bedrooms, particularly the master suite, are characterized by a rich interplay of color and pattern, featuring florals, stripes, paisleys, and soft geometrics in a cheerful palette of pinks and greens. Salvesen Graham, founded in London in 2013 by Mary Graham and Nicole Salvesen, is known for its layered aesthetic and timeless approach, aiming to create warm and soft interiors inspired by Georgian England and 18th- and 19th-century Indian textiles, while bringing an edge to quintessential British charm. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AmericanCraftsman #BritishCharm #SalvesenGraham #ColoradoHomes #HistoricRenovation #TraditionalModern #LayeredAesthetic

This article is the second part of a five-week series detailing the design project of the Hilltop Estate, specifically focusing on its living and dining areas. The living room and dining room are presented as a cohesive, larger space, characterized by a high ceiling vault. The design approach emphasizes a sense of continuity, achieved through elements like uniform drapery and symmetrical chandeliers. The color palette employed throughout these spaces is softened, featuring peaceful and calming tones, with black accents strategically used to complement the bold steel windows. In the living room, a focal point is created by built-in shelving constructed around a limestone fireplace. The design pays meticulous attention to molding details and the selection of décor accessories. A notable feature within the built-in shelving is a flannel-textured wallpaper backdrop, adding a subtle textural dimension to the space. The article highlights the Studio McGee design approach of mixing furniture styles, illustrated by the use of spindle lounge chairs that complement a cream-colored sofa without being an exact set. Furthermore, a blue-gray sofa with a distinct shape and upholstery is incorporated, contributing to a diverse yet harmonious furniture arrangement. Shea McGee, the designer, articulates the design objective for the living space: to create an environment that feels elegant and refined but remains comfortable and practical for the clients' lifestyle. This balance between aesthetics and livability is a core principle guiding the design decisions for the Hilltop Estate. The dining room, which adjoins the living area, features two prominent long walls. These walls are utilized to introduce height and scale into the space. One wall is adorned with a sideboard and a mirror, which not only serves a functional purpose but also reflects the surrounding views, enhancing the room's spaciousness. The opposite wall features a large hutch, providing both aesthetic interest and valuable storage capacity, contributing to the room's overall functionality and style. The integration of these elements ensures that the dining room, while distinct, maintains the overarching design philosophy and aesthetic continuity established in the living room. The article underscores the thoughtful consideration given to every detail, from architectural features to furniture selection and decorative accents, all working in concert to create a sophisticated yet comfortable living and dining experience within the Hilltop Estate. The design aims to blend traditional and modern elements seamlessly, resulting in a timeless and inviting home. #HilltopEstate #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomDesign #DiningRoomDesign #HomeDecor #DesignContinuity #FurnitureStyling #StudioMcGee