Casa MRGT Is a Loft Where Industrial Charm Meets Urban Elegance

In Barcelona, a meticulously renovated loft, formerly a 1961 factory, is on the market for €1.45 million. Located on Passatge de Còrsega, a quiet residential street close to Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, this 3,153-square-foot property offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and modern living. The conversion project, completed in two stages in 2018 and 2019 by architect Pedro Ayesta of Ayesta-Daban Arquitectura, sought to preserve the building’s original industrial character while integrating contemporary design elements. The loft features four bedrooms, with one currently serving as an office, and three full bathrooms. Its layout includes a spacious primary living area encompassing an open kitchen, two lounge spaces, and a designated area for a pool table. Natural light floods the main living space, largely due to a skylight integrated into the barrel-vaulted ceiling. Sustainable features are also incorporated, with photovoltaic solar panels installed on the rooftop to supply a portion of the building’s electricity. The original factory ceased operations in the early 2000s and remained vacant for over a decade before its current owners acquired it. They were captivated by the factory's expansive, naturally lit interiors and aimed to retain its industrial essence. The renovation emphasizes the factory’s existing materials, celebrating their imperfections. This approach is evident in the exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, industrial factory windows, steel ceiling beams and stairs, and barrel-vaulted concrete ceilings that are prominent throughout the home. Several original elements were retained and repurposed. An old water tank, for instance, was preserved and given a new navy-blue paint finish, transforming it into a sculptural piece in the main living area. Other preserved elements include an original steel stairway and tall wooden drawers. The two-car garage is connected to the main living space via reclaimed stained-glass sliding doors, and it also offers potential for an additional live/work studio. The principal bedroom is located in a penthouse-like area, featuring a wall of factory windows that overlook a large roof terrace. This terrace, with its glazed openings, allows natural light to penetrate the living area below. One of the bathrooms maintains its original floor-to-ceiling white tiles, further highlighting the blend of old and new. A glass-walled shower and bath have been integrated into a corner of the principal bedroom, adding a contemporary touch to the industrial backdrop. The bedrooms also showcase barrel-vaulted concrete ceilings interspersed with steel beams, maintaining consistency with the overall design. The property's listing with Barcelona & Costa Brava Sotheby’s International Realty highlights its inspiring loft-style design, parking, and terrace in the Sagrada Família area. #BarcelonaRealEstate #LoftConversion #IndustrialDesign #SagradaFamilia #ArchitecturalRenovation #SustainableLiving #ModernHome #FactoryToHome #HistoricPreservation

This article highlights the distinctive industrial apartment of Terrence Hill, president of Hill Construction, located above Boudreaux & Thibodeaux’s bar on Third Street in downtown Baton Rouge. Hill, despite considering purchasing a home, chose to remain a renter after discovering this unique space. The apartment offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling downtown environment, with Hill frequently enjoying his rooftop balcony to read. The article emphasizes the surprising tranquility of downtown, even amidst ongoing construction. The interior of the apartment is described as Hill's sanctuary, characterized by its one-of-a-kind, salvaged materials and industrial aesthetic. Every element, from exposed piping and weathered wood flooring to exposed brick walls and ceiling beams, contributes to its unique charm. The apartment incorporates old doors with peeling paint, wooden window shutters, stained glass on doors and cabinet windows, architectural pulleys, and steel, hand-welded chandeliers. Even the bedroom closet walls are crafted from galvanized tin, designed to resemble a mini shed. The apartment was constructed in 2007 by Danny McGlynn, owner of Boudreaux & Thibodeaux’s and the Circa 1857 art and salvage shop. McGlynn’s vision for the space involved collecting antique beams and integrating salvaged items throughout the design, effectively eliminating the need for additional furniture or decor. The details themselves, such as a rusted bird cage above the front door or peeling paint on kitchen cabinets, serve as the apartment's art and ornamentation. Items that might seem out of place elsewhere, like large nails in the wall and rods extending from the ceiling, are meticulously incorporated to appear intentional. Key features of the apartment include a living room with weathered wood flooring, exposed brick, and ceiling beams, complemented by an old church pew for seating. The guest bathroom boasts a clawfoot tub with a brass faucet and shower enclosure. In the kitchen, a porcelain sink is paired with a brick and concrete backsplash, stained glass upper cabinet doors, multicolor wood panel lower cabinet doors, and a built-in butcher block cutting board. The apartment also features a small, slanted-roof attic/loft space on the third floor, which Hill occasionally uses for workouts. Hill has added minimal personal touches, such as a large wooden mirror and an Arctic brown sheepskin, choosing instead to let the apartment's inherent character speak for itself. As a commercial contractor, he appreciates the intricate details and craftsmanship of the space, noting that many people believe the apartment perfectly reflects his personality. #IndustrialApartment #DowntownLiving #SalvagedMaterials #UniqueInteriors #BatonRougeRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeDecor #TerrenceHill #DannyMcGlynn

Los Angeles architecture studio CHA:COL undertook the renovation of an apartment for a novelist and game designer, transforming a previously cluttered space into a functional live-work loft. Located in LA's Arts District, the project aimed to create a serene and inspiring environment for the creative couple, moving away from the apartment's former ornate and theatrical aesthetic. The renovation involved a significant simplification of the interior, strategically dividing the space to accommodate both private living areas and a combined kitchen, lounge, and study space. Upon entering the apartment, a clear division was established, with a private area partitioned to the right of the threshold. The main living space, encompassing the kitchen, lounge, and study, is situated at the end of the entry hallway. This layout was designed to optimize functionality and flow for the occupants. During the renovation process, existing structural elements such as heavy timber posts and ceiling beams were exposed, contributing warmth and character to the otherwise bright and minimalist interior. These wooden elements contrast with white-washed walls, light-colored flooring, and the glossy finishes of integrated furniture, creating a balanced and visually appealing environment. Large windows further enhance the brightness of the space, allowing ample natural light to permeate the loft. Custom-made millwork plays a crucial role in defining the various zones within the open-plan area. A bespoke kitchen unit marks the entrance to the combined living space, while another distinct furniture installation separates the lounge from the dedicated work area. This latter installation, known as "the writer's block," was conceived as a double-sided object, serving to clearly delineate the different functions of the space. One side of the writer's block is designed for more public and social activities, such as entertainment, while the other, more private side, functions as a dedicated writer's desk. CHA:COL principal Apurva Pande emphasized that the studio aimed for the space to be both motivating for creative pursuits and suitable for the clients' daily living habits. Adding a whimsical and inspirational element, a large geometric graphic was applied to the wall facing the lounge area. This intricate pattern extends onto the grey carpet in the form of striations. Where these lines intersect with the writer's block, they seamlessly integrate into three sections of the furniture piece, shaping niches and influencing the angles of the shelving units. Both the color palette and the overall design layout draw inspiration from the popular smartphone puzzle game, Monument Valley. This game is renowned among creatives for its impossible architectural mazes and vibrant, stylized graphics. According to Pande, Monument Valley's unique ability to transform two-dimensional shapes and lines into a surreal three-dimensional landscape resonated with the design team and the clients, given their backgrounds in gaming and animation. The concept of the game, where the central character, Ida, navigates tilted planes and angular walls, directly influenced the design of the loft. The architects envisioned the clients moving through the central creative area into the lounge in a similar fashion, translating the game's interplay between 2D and 3D into the physical space. Despite the modern transformation, subtle nods to the apartment's past remain, with gargoyles from the original interior painted over, adding a humorous juxtaposition to what CHA:COL now refers to as a "compact, urban oasis." The project highlights a contemporary approach to residential design, where personal interests and professional needs of clients are deeply integrated into the architectural and interior solutions. By drawing inspiration from unexpected sources like video games, CHA:COL created a unique and personalized living and working environment that fosters creativity and provides a retreat from urban life. This renovation serves as an example of how bespoke design and thoughtful space planning can transform an existing apartment into a highly functional and aesthetically engaging live-work studio for creative professionals. The integration of custom millwork, geometric graphics, and a thematic inspiration from a popular game demonstrates a holistic approach to interior design that goes beyond mere aesthetics to enhance the occupants' lifestyle and work productivity. The blend of exposed structural elements with modern finishes and personalized decor creates a distinctive character for the loft, balancing warmth with contemporary style. #ApartmentRenovation #LiveWorkLoft #CustomMillwork #GeometricGraffiti #MonumentValleyInspired #LosAngelesArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CreativeSpace #ResidentialDesign

Jonathan Matti, an interior designer with an architectural background, has established himself over four decades as a leading figure in Manila's interior design scene. He is the founder and CEO of an eponymous interior design firm and is known for projects such as the Goldenberg Mansion's Glass House and the creative hub Vetted. Matti describes his design philosophy as an integration of "Old World elegance meets 21st-century living," aiming to create spaces that are rich and nuanced without feeling anachronistic or like a museum. Matti emphasizes the importance of client collaboration, stating that successful projects stem from clients who share his appreciation for graceful, modern interiors with a historical feel. He welcomes opinionated clients, viewing such exchanges as a healthy dialogue that enriches the design process. His approach resonated internationally, leading to a collaboration with British company de Gournay to create "Latina Manila," a wallpaper series inspired by Filipino culture and history. His architectural training enables him to bridge the gap between space design and interior design, effectively resolving incongruities between a structure's architecture and its interior furnishings. A notable highlight of Matti’s career involved designing "The Glass House" at the Goldenberg Mansion. Following an unexpected downpour during an event hosted by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Matti was tasked with creating a weather-proof indoor space. He conceived an air-conditioned annex of glass, steel, and wood, drawing inspiration from pre-Victorian era glasshouses. This structure was designed to blend with the gardens and allow natural light and views in, while providing a comfortable, semi-outdoor venue for events, complete with appropriate lighting. Matti's transition from aspiring architect to celebrated interior designer was influenced by his early exposure to diverse architectural styles through his mother, a real estate broker specializing in Makati villages. His first interior design project, which involved significant re-arrangement and minor construction, solidified his passion for interior design. This initial success led to numerous projects, eventually prompting him to focus solely on interior design. The creative hub Vetted emerged during the pandemic when Matti repurposed a rented storage space. Envisioned as a venue for pop-up events and creative gatherings, Vetted extends Matti's design philosophy, ensuring that all hosted events align with his aesthetic. Its inaugural event was an art exhibit by Elmer Borlongan. Despite initial challenges, Vetted has successfully hosted various events, including a pop-up store collaboration called “Garden of Earthly Delights.” Matti continues his collaboration with de Gournay, hinting at future home-related projects that will bear his signature elegance and meticulous vetting. #InteriorDesign #OldWorldElegance #JonathanMatti #ArchitecturalDesign #PhilippineDesign #DeGournay #GoldenbergMansion #VettedCreativeHub

Poul Olson acquired his unit in City View Lofts, Atlanta, in 2015 with the intention of undertaking a comprehensive remodel to align the space with his personal aesthetic preferences. The renovation project involved gutting the kitchen, remodeling both bathrooms, replacing the original flooring, and, more recently, installing new walnut stair treads, which Olson personally stained. He sought the expertise of an interior designer from Chosen Interiors to help articulate a vision for the loft that blended modern and industrial styles with a grayscale color palette. The loft, spanning 990 square feet, features one bedroom and one-and-a-half bathrooms. A key design decision was painting the ceilings black to minimize the visual impact of exposed pipes and ductwork, a common characteristic of loft living, and to impart a cozier ambiance, particularly in the master bedroom. Olson aimed to create a serene and calming environment within the loft, especially for his private sleeping quarters. The renovation also included the installation of a new walk-in closet system and a tankless electric water heater. A low-profile wall in the loft area was replaced with an open railing to match the new stair railing and to enhance natural light penetration into the master bedroom. In the master bathroom, to counteract the often-constrained feeling of loft bathrooms, Olson opted for a floating vanity and frameless shower doors from Shower Doors by TJ. An opaque window in the shower further contributes to the sense of spaciousness by allowing ambient light from the rest of the loft to filter in. The living room features a concrete coffee table from CB2, which reinforces the gray-scale theme and industrial aesthetic. The kitchen is anchored by dark cabinetry from Wellborn Cabinets, installed by Strathmore, with pendant lights made from bamboo fibers and polypropylene from Lumens suspended over the island. The master bedroom's focal point is an accent wall clad in wood-grain tiles from Floor & Decor, complemented by a gallery wall showcasing art collected during Olson's international travels, including pieces from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Mozambique. Key design elements highlighted include the black ceilings, the consistent gray color scheme, and various industrial accents throughout the home. Outdoor features include bamboo screening on the patio. Furniture and decor were sourced from retailers such as CB2, Room & Board, Crate & Barrel, and West Elm. Paint colors used include Benjamin Moore Wolf Gray for the bedroom, Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray for the master bathroom, and Benjamin Moore Moonshine for the half bathroom. The project successfully transformed the loft into a modern and industrial living space tailored to the homeowner's tastes. #LoftRemodel #ModernDesign #IndustrialStyle #GrayscalePalette #InteriorDesign #AtlantaLofts #HomeRenovation #SpaceOptimization

This article highlights a sophisticated corner unit located in the Toy Factory Lofts within Los Angeles's Arts District, currently listed for $1.775 million. The Arts District continues to be a magnet for affluent individuals, and this particular loft exemplifies the area's appeal with its distinctive industrial-chic aesthetic. Spanning 1,875 square feet, the unit boasts impressive features such as high ceilings, premium finishes, and extensive use of concrete, contributing to its modern industrial character. The loft is situated at the top of the Toy Factory Lofts building, which is notable for housing Little Bear, a popular brunch spot and bar, on its ground floor. The interior design adheres to a typical loft configuration, with the main living area designed as a single, expansive space. A key feature of this open-plan layout is the kitchen, which is outfitted with high-end Miele appliances, establishing it as the central hub of the unit. The property benefits from abundant natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. A significant draw is its outdoor connection: it is one of only three units in the entire building that includes a private patio, offering exclusive outdoor living space. The master suite is thoughtfully designed, with the bedroom area cleverly separated from the main living space by custom room dividers that also serve as functional bookshelves, enhancing both privacy and storage. The suite is further complemented by ample closet space, providing extensive storage solutions. A discreet study nook is integrated into the design, offering a dedicated area for work or quiet contemplation. The master bathroom is a luxurious retreat, featuring a soaking tub and a spacious walk-in shower, adding to the unit’s overall allure. From the unit, residents can enjoy views of the building's pool area, contributing to the desirable lifestyle offered by this property. This listing showcases a blend of contemporary design, practical amenities, and a sought-after location in a vibrant urban neighborhood, catering to individuals seeking a sophisticated and distinctive living experience in Los Angeles. #ArtsDistrict #ToyFactoryLofts #LosAngelesRealEstate #LoftLiving #LuxuryApartment #IndustrialChic #PrivatePatio #HomeForSale

A remarkable single-family home in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, originally a garage, is currently listed for just over $1.9 million. This unique residence at 222 Madison Street combines industrial aesthetics with functional living spaces, spanning 3,000 square feet. The exterior maintains a modest garage appearance, cleverly concealing the expansive and stylish interior. The home's design embraces an industrial chic, characterized by cured cement floors, exposed white-washed brick walls, and soaring ceilings punctuated by skylights that flood the space with natural light. This architectural approach creates an open and airy atmosphere throughout the dwelling. The main floor features a spacious living room that provides direct views into a serene atrium, a central element designed to enhance the home's tranquil ambiance. Above this living area, a dedicated reading nook is integrated with a Dutch-designed music storage system, offering both comfort and practicality. The open-plan design seamlessly connects the living room to a large dining area, accommodating substantial furniture arrangements and fostering a sense of continuous flow. Adjacent to the dining area is a chef’s kitchen, equipped with stainless steel counters and cabinetry, a professional 36-inch range and oven, and a prominent Carrara marble island. A generous pantry offers ample storage, catering to the needs of a gourmet kitchen. This level is designed for both everyday living and entertaining, maximizing space and utility. The second level of the home houses the master bedroom suite. This private retreat is large enough to comfortably fit a king-sized bed and includes a walk-in closet for extensive storage. A private terrace extends from the master bedroom, providing an exclusive outdoor space for relaxation. The master bathroom is appointed with a separate soaking tub and a walk-in shower, complemented by two distinctively hand-painted Talavera sinks, adding a touch of artistic detail. Across from the master bedroom on the second level, a second large loft area offers significant versatility. While currently configured as a playroom, its substantial size allows for various creative uses, adaptable to the owner's needs or preferences. This flexibility underscores the home's capacity to evolve with its inhabitants. The outdoor terrace, designed to function as a garden, plays a crucial role in bringing additional light into the main living room through its large windows, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the home is engineered for energy efficiency, incorporating modern conveniences such as on-demand hot water, heated floors, and central air conditioning. An integrated sound system allows for individual control in each space, enhancing comfort and personalization. A private garage provides practical city living, addressing parking challenges. The property is listed by Wendy Stephenson and David Cobell for Compass, showcasing a sophisticated blend of industrial design, modern amenities, and practical living solutions within a transformed urban space. #BedStuy #GarageConversion #IndustrialGlamour #ZenAtrium #SingleFamilyHome #BrooklynRealEstate #ModernDesign #EnergyEfficientHome #LuxuryLiving

DNK Architecture Group has transformed a former furniture factory in Moscow, dating back to the 1980s, into loft-style apartments. The project, named Rassvet Loft Studio, is located in a historic district characterized by redbrick buildings and has been longlisted for a Dezeen Award 2019. The conversion involved two main structures: Rassvet 3.34, a ten-story industrial building, and Rassvet 3.20, a complex of lower units that previously served as workers' housing. A key aspect of the renovation involved replacing the original prefabricated concrete panel cladding with handmade clinker bricks. These bricks, fired at high temperatures, create a shiny surface that contributes to the building's renewed aesthetic. The facade is further punctuated by zinc-framed windows, adding to the contemporary yet respectful design. To mitigate the visual scale of the larger structure, DNK Architecture Group designed the facades to resemble a series of individual homes, each the width of a single apartment. This approach gives the impression of medieval row houses, with each 'house' featuring distinct brickwork textures and colors, framed windows, and balconies. At both large gable ends of the main block, a glazed cut has been introduced down the center. This design element serves to maximize natural light penetration into the apartments. The surrounding grooved brickwork patterns create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow across the building's surface. Inside the apartments, the original concrete skeleton of the factory has been preserved, retaining a sense of industrial heritage. Many of the six-meter-high factory floor areas have been converted into double-height apartments, incorporating mezzanines to optimize space. The converted attic spaces also feature double-height apartments, which open onto small private terraces. At ground level, each apartment has its own entrance and a small garden, elevated on a brick plinth. The project also features a distinctive circular cut-out in the ceiling of the block's main entrance, which casts a moving patch of light on the wall throughout the day, inspired by the Rassvet Loft Studio's solar circle logo. The smaller blocks contain townhouse-style apartments, offering a mix of one, two, and three-level homes. These units are topped with metal-clad dormer windows. Each townhouse includes its own approach and front door, with some benefiting from a small garden area enclosed by a low wall. Cuts in the roofline of these smaller units have been repurposed into terrace spaces, offering secluded outdoor areas sheltered by the projecting dormers. The photographic documentation of the project was carried out by Ilya Ivanov, showcasing the architectural transformation. This adaptive reuse project exemplifies a modern approach to revitalizing industrial structures for residential purposes in Moscow, joining other notable housing developments in the city such as Team Paul de Vroom + Sputnik's tower blocks and MVRDV's constructivist-inspired apartment block designs. #RassvetLoftStudio #DNKArchitectureGroup #MoscowArchitecture #FactoryConversion #LoftApartments #AdaptiveReuse #HandmadeBricks #ResidentialArchitecture #UrbanRenewal

This blog post highlights a luxury Georgian-inspired estate located at 153 Perry Crescent in Toronto, currently on the market for $6.5 million. The property has undergone an extensive renovation since its last sale in 2018 for $1.71 million, transforming from a modest suburban home into a 9,000-square-foot luxury residence. The design and construction were executed by New Age Design Architects and Easton Homes, respectively, with interiors styled by Olly and Em Interior Design. Externally, the house is distinguished by a red brick façade, Indiana limestone trim, and a black synthetic slate roof, contrasting with its neighboring properties. It is situated on a quiet cul-de-sac with direct access to the Islington Golf and Country Club. The interior boasts meticulous design, featuring elements often seen in high-end home decor magazines. The main floor includes the principal living areas and a primary suite. The primary bedroom is equipped with a walk-in closet and an ensuite bathroom that features a double rain shower. The kitchen is a standout area, fitted with a Lacanche gas range, Miele appliances, and honed quartzite countertops, complemented by a butler's pantry. Upstairs, the home offers three additional bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom. There is also a flexible lounge space that can serve as a fifth bedroom and a dedicated craft room or office. The lower level extends the luxury amenities with a home theatre, a spa area including a sauna, steam shower, and cold plunge barrel, and a gym. A unique feature of the lower level is a glass-enclosed car gallery that accommodates three vehicles with a hydraulic stack lift. Technologically, the residence is advanced, incorporating Control4 smart home automation, radiant in-floor heating throughout, six HVAC zones, and a UV light air purification system. The backyard, while designed for year-round use with infrared ceiling heaters, a gas fireplace, and heated flooring on the patio, primarily consists of grass. The lot size of 46.7 by 116.2 feet limits the extent of potential landscaping, though approved plans by Partridge Design exist. Despite the modest outdoor space, the property's private access to the golf course is presented as a compensating feature. #LuxuryRealEstate #TorontoHomes #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #GeorgianArchitecture #SmartHome #CarGallery #LuxuryAmenities #HighEndKitchens

Loft apartments, characterized by their expansive open floor plans, soaring ceilings, and oversized windows, are highly sought after by urban dwellers. These spaces are often housed in former factory buildings and frequently retain industrial elements such as exposed pipes, support columns, or original wood-plank floors. Their long, uninterrupted walls provide an ideal canvas for showcasing large artworks or sophisticated designer furnishings. This article showcases ten distinctive loft spaces curated from the pages of *Architectural Digest*, illustrating how raw industrial spaces can be masterfully transformed into luxurious and unique residences. Each example highlights innovative design solutions and a sophisticated approach to modern living. One prominent example is a Manhattan loft designed by Shelton, Mindel & Associates. The master bedroom in this residence features a striking floating wall that elegantly silhouettes a 1954 lamp by Max Ingrand for FontanaArte. The headboard is upholstered in a Holly Hunt Great Plains fabric, complemented by Pratesi bed linens. The room is further adorned with chairs by Alvar Aalto and Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist, demonstrating a blend of classic and contemporary design. In Seattle, designer Terry Hunziker undertook an extensive renovation of his own loft. He employed free-floating planes to intelligently define distinct spaces, such as a gallery area, within the expansive layout. This approach maintains the open feel of the loft while providing functional delineation. Another Manhattan loft, belonging to Bernd Goeckler, features whimsical Italian chairs that infuse a vibrant energy into the space. This design was a collaboration between architect Francine Monaco and decorator Carl D’Aquino of D’Aquino Monaco, showcasing how artistic furnishings can personalize an industrial setting. A New York loft, also designed by Shelton, Mindel & Associates, is furnished with iconic pieces by Charlotte Perriand, Knoll, and Poul Kjærholm, reflecting a commitment to high-quality, timeless design. The selection of these pieces contributes to a refined and sophisticated atmosphere. Investor Yoon Kim’s Manhattan penthouse, designed by David Mann and Brett McMullen of MR Architecture + Decor, features a custom-made De Angelis sofa covered in Edelman leather. A custom-made blackened-steel console by Soraya Ltd. and a Ball chair with goat-hair upholstery by Inmod add distinctive touches. A cowhide rug by Beauvais Carpets grounds the living area, while the walls throughout the loft are painted in a custom white blend by Benjamin Moore, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The sheer scale of Yoon Kim's loft immediately impresses visitors, with large windows extending the visual dimensions and offering expansive views. The dining area is illuminated by a chandelier by David Weeks for Ralph Pucci and furnished with Eero Saarinen Tulip chairs by Knoll, alongside Hudson counter stools by Emeco, creating a contemporary and inviting space. In the New York loft of architect Steven Harris and interior designer Lucien Rees Roberts, monumental bookshelves serve to delineate the living and dining areas, effectively creating distinct zones within the open plan. A Sherwin-Williams taupe paint provides a neutral backdrop for a 1960 Georges Braque print and vintage Vistosi pendant lights. The dining table, a Rees Roberts + Partners design, is surrounded by Ib Kofod-Larsen chairs upholstered in Roger Arlington silk and adorned with Dorothy C. Thorpe Lucite candlesticks. Designer Campion Platt addressed the challenge of high ceilings in his SoHo loft kitchen by devising a “room within a room,” partially enclosing the kitchen area in his New York residence. He also integrated an illuminated cove above the walls to create a visually striking floating effect. In Manhattan’s West Village, a collaboration between architect Preston T. Phillips and designers Randy Kemper and Tony Ingrao of Ingrao Inc. resulted in a sun-drenched, art-filled loft for financier Chad Leat. The living area boasts a Ron Arad table atop a goatskin carpet by Patterson, Flynn & Martin, flanked by facing Vladimir Kagan sofas from Ralph Pucci International upholstered in Bergamo fabric. A red sculpture by Keith Haring adds a vibrant focal point. Finally, photographers Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin's Manhattan residence was created by combining adjacent lofts by Simrel Achenbach of Descience Laboratories in collaboration with Daniel Sachs of Sachs Lindores. The living area features a crocheted mushroom stool by Anne-Claire Petit paired with Yves Klein’s 1961 Table Bleue, showcasing a unique blend of artistry and design. #LoftApartments #InteriorDesign #UrbanLiving #IndustrialChic #ManhattanLofts #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalDigest #ApartmentDecor #SpaceDesign

Designer Laura Hodges transformed a 2,000-square-foot industrial loft in Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood into a serene, light-filled home. The original space featured raw concrete floors and exposed HVAC piping under 18-foot ceilings, elements Hodges systematically replaced or reconfigured. Hodges, a New York School of Interior Design alumna who previously worked for Jamie Drake and Thomas Jayne, established her firm in Maryland in 2016 and later opened her home boutique, Domain by Laura Hodges Studio. The renovation began with a complete overhaul of the existing floor plan and infrastructure. The concrete floors were covered with wide-plank oak, and a clunky builder-grade stair was replaced with a minimalist white-painted metal version with oak treads and handrails. A glass-framed mezzanine was added above the stairwell, contributing to the refined aesthetic. Hodges emphasized the role of artwork in the design, with the walls serving as a neutral canvas. The open-plan living areas were painted in various finishes of Benjamin Moore’s Super White, and all custom design details were constructed on site. The living room, designed for media and entertaining, includes twin sofas, a Bernhardt armchair, and vintage chairs upholstered in chocolate brown Edelman Leather. A custom niche with grass cloth backing and integrated lighting houses a large bookcase, accessed by a custom white oak rolling ladder on a steel track. The kitchen underwent a complete renovation, replacing a turquoise-painted space. Hodges concealed an existing column within a paneled box and installed new floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, including specialized storage for a coffee bar and a movable spice rack. The kitchen now features Imperial Danby marble counters and backsplash, Fisher & Paykel appliances, and Visual Comfort pendants. BB LaMartina's artwork adorns the space. Hodges ingeniously created a secondary space by inserting a wall into the living room, forming a den that functions as a guest room for the homeowners' daughters. This space incorporates a sliding door and blackout curtains for privacy, alongside bronze transom windows that subtly reference the loft's industrial heritage. A wall-mounted desk, sleeper sofa, closet, and an additional bathroom were integrated into this versatile area. The dining area is distinguished by double-height windows equipped with motorized sheer curtains and blackout shades. Hodges custom-designed the dining table, featuring a starburst-patterned cerused white oak top and ebony legs, in collaboration with Goodwood Studios. Oly dining chairs complete the setting. Throughout the renovation, Hodges prioritized maximizing natural light and views of downtown Baltimore. The transformation successfully converted a formerly stark industrial environment into a peaceful and elegant residence, reflecting a blend of modern aesthetics with functional design and a nod to the building's history. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the ample light and scenic views achieved through the design. This project exemplifies Hodges's ability to create sophisticated, livable spaces from challenging industrial settings. #InteriorDesign #LoftConversion #IndustrialToResidential #BaltimoreRealEstate #LauraHodgesStudio #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving

The Brush Factory Lofts project in South Philadelphia involved the conversion of a former Bestt Liebco paintbrush factory into a distinctive apartment complex. Sherwin-Williams acquired the factory in 2004, which had ceased operations in 2005. The Rufo Companies, led by Anthony Rufo Jr., purchased the abandoned complex from Sherwin-Williams in 2007, recognizing its structural integrity despite being heavily graffitied both inside and out. The conversion project, however, faced significant delays due to the Great Recession and a lengthy zoning variance process, finally commencing in 2015 after an eight-year hiatus. The development aimed to retain elements of the building's industrial past while creating modern living spaces. This includes a hanging sculpture made from old paintbrushes in the residents' lounge and the preservation of original fire doors. The industrial aesthetic extends to the individual units, with kitchens featuring metal shelves instead of traditional cabinets and distinctive LED lighting. The complex comprises five buildings, resulting in unique layouts and dimensions for the 150 units. For instance, some apartments in Building 1 have galley kitchens that project from the main structure, and some first-floor units in Building 2 feature basement bedrooms. The Brush Factory Lofts offer a variety of unit types, including studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, ranging from 625 to 1,500 square feet. Studios are priced between $1,475 and $1,700, one-bedrooms from $1,500 to $2,250, two-bedrooms from $1,750 to $2,400, and three-bedrooms from $2,750 to $2,850 per month. Amenities include a residents' lounge with a coffee bar, a fitness center, and a covered parking garage with 65 spaces available for $200 per month. A green roofdeck is also being added as part of the second phase. The project addressed local concerns, particularly regarding parking, a common issue in South Philadelphia. Although neighbors initially desired one parking space per unit, the city's revised zoning code made this unnecessary. The developer provides 65 spaces for the 150 units, a number deemed sufficient as approximately one-third of residents are observed to own cars. The first phase of 60 units began welcoming tenants in the fall, and the larger 90-unit second phase is nearing completion, with leasing underway and move-ins anticipated soon. The development has been met with positive community reception, with locals expressing enthusiasm for the revitalization of the building. One resident, Charlie Porco, a 75-year-old former neighbor, chose to sell his house and move into the lofts, highlighting the appeal of the renovated spaces and the convenience of single-floor living. #ApartmentConversion #IndustrialLofts #PhiladelphiaRealEstate #AdaptiveReuse #UrbanDevelopment #HistoricPreservation #ResidentialDesign #RentalProperty

This article details the transformation of two historic Dumbo paint factories, an 1891 Brick and Timber building and a 1921 Daylight Factory, into modern residential lofts. The project, a collaboration between Alloy's architecture team and Rebecca Robertson of RR Interior, aimed to preserve the original façades and textures of the centuries-old buildings while updating their functionality to meet contemporary housing needs. The resulting apartments feature unique open floor plans, high ceilings, and abundant natural light, designed to enhance the living experience in the Brooklyn borough. Rebecca Robertson, drawing from her own experience living in a historic New York City loft, spearheaded the interior design. Her approach focused on creating distinct living areas within the expansive open spaces through strategic furniture groupings and rugs. A unified color palette, featuring warm tones accented with hints of black, was chosen to complement the strong architectural elements, particularly the windows. Robertson emphasized layering soft, organic textures, furnishings, décor, and accessories to cultivate a harmonious and lived-in atmosphere. A significant aspect of her design philosophy involved sourcing items from small vendors and artisans, resulting in individualized artwork and fixtures that give each piece a sense of discovered uniqueness. The design process also addressed the evolving role of the home, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need for multi-functional spaces. Robertson's floor plans incorporate separate corners for working, studying, and socializing. A notable innovation is a flexible worktable, developed in collaboration with Braga Woodworks, which can be reconfigured into two individual desks, catering to the growing need for adaptable home office solutions. Further design highlights in the model apartment include custom stools by Skagerak in the entryway and Thonet dining chairs accompanying a table crafted by Braga Woodworks. The space is elegantly illuminated by an Artemide chandelier, a design by Neri and Hu. Additional thoughtful touches include an Ethnicraft credenza and a plush Côte à Coast rug in the entryway, complemented by a Norm Architects oval mirror. The second bedroom features cube shelves, offering customizable storage solutions. The master bedroom showcases a tambour wood wall and an extended headboard that ingeniously conceals an Avera custom closet designed by The Container Store. The master bathroom is designed to evoke a spa-like ambiance, adding to the luxurious feel of the lofts. The exterior of 168 Plymouth, one of the transformed buildings, is also presented, along with a rendering of a future penthouse suite, demonstrating the project's comprehensive approach to modernizing historical architecture. #ResidentialLofts #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #DumboBrooklyn #AdaptiveReuse #RebeccaRobertsonInteriors #AlloyDevelopment #UrbanRenovation #FlexibleLiving

This article details the transformation of a 1990s-built, 3,000-square-foot home in Bay Village, designed to blend industrial and contemporary styles for art-collecting homeowners who enjoy entertaining. The primary focus of the renovation, led by Laura Suglia-Isgro of KAS Interior Design, was to open up the previously constrained foyer area. The original wooden staircase and catwalk, which dominated the entryway, were reconfigured to a side wall. This strategic relocation allowed for better utilization of natural light from the home's large front and rear windows, creating an expansive and open-concept space. To complement the new open design, wrought-iron railings were custom-made by Finelli Ironworks, enhancing the flow of light and contributing to the industrial aesthetic. A custom chandelier, composed of seven clustered pendants, was installed in the foyer, adding a playful touch of color and modernity. The overall design emphasizes a mix of materials, including the wrought iron, lacquer cabinetry, and various glass accents, to achieve a luxurious yet industrial feel. Beyond the foyer, the renovation extended to other key areas of the house. A former first-floor master suite was converted into a large gathering area, specifically designed for entertainment. This space now features a bar, a pool table, a powder room, and a small laundry room, conveniently located for use with the adjacent outdoor pool. The bar area showcases high-end automotive-style finish on the cabinets, juxtaposed with wood accents to introduce a rustic element. In the family room, a large center sectional provides ample seating for guests, while the focal point is a fireplace adorned with a hand-carved stone-tile facade and a custom-designed wood surround. To address the increased openness in the foyer, which reduced privacy, a retractable ceiling shade was discreetly installed under the catwalk, creating a customizable barrier from the entryway. Similarly, motorized skylight shades were incorporated to manage glare and light, offering flexibility for the homeowners. The kitchen was updated with a distinctive two-tiered island. The upper tier features a floating slab porcelain countertop capable of seating up to six people, while the lower tier serves as a food preparation area with quartz counters and an undermount galley sink system. Sleek brown, flat-panel cabinets from Rino’s contribute to the contemporary look. Wine storage was integrated into the pathway leading to the dining area, allowing the homeowners to showcase their extensive wine collection. This design choice reinforces the home's suitability for frequent entertaining, creating a seamless connection between the kitchen, dining, and family rooms. Finally, a two-story home office was designed to double as a music room for the guitar-playing homeowner. This space includes a custom-designed desk and storage unit crafted from steel and walnut by Robert Knauer of Sawhorse Woodworks, highlighting the collaborative and custom nature of the renovation project. The design successfully marries the owners' passion for art and entertaining with a sophisticated blend of industrial and contemporary elements throughout the home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BayVillageHome #IndustrialContemporary #OpenConcept #CustomCabinetry #EntertainingSpace #FoyerTransformation #LuxuryFinishes

This article explores six strategically redesigned residences in various metropolitan locales, from Madrid to Moscow, that transcend historical trappings and spatial limitations to showcase the advantages of urban habitation. These homes are presented as thoughtfully redesigned spaces that adapt to modern living needs while honoring their original structures. First, a Functionalist-style tenement apartment in Prague, redesigned by Malfinio, was stripped of previous modifications to emphasize light and openness. Support functions like the kitchen, baths, and closets are discreetly grouped behind operable MDF panels featuring watercolor-inspired flourishes. This design approach maintains an L-shaped, free-flowing space that can be reconfigured for various uses, such as a workout area that can later become a child’s play zone. The sleeping area is separated by ceiling-hung linen curtains, hand-painted to complement the etched-aluminum and stainless-steel details throughout the apartment. Next, a ground-floor SoHo loft in New York, designed by Productora, features floor-to-ceiling shelving powder-coated in lemony RAL 1012. This extensive steel unit serves multiple purposes, acting as a divider, storage, and a sleeping mezzanine, with clerestories, nooks, and millwork integrated into its design. The apartment also incorporates utilitarian elements such as terrazzo bathroom tiles, a stainless-steel kitchen countertop, and wire-glass interior windows, fitting the character of the 1868 building, which houses an historic artist’s cooperative. In Barcelona, Allaround Lab transformed a studio within a century-old building in the Eixample district into a conceptual living space. The design views the home as "infrastructure defined by its potential for use," distilling habitation into its core activities: cooking, sleeping/living, and ablutions. The apartment's original compartmentalized layout was converted into an open, unprogrammed space that can be adjusted from a one- to a two-bedroom unit using sliding panels. A central white-box kitchen, marked by a swath of ceramic tile, appears to launch into midair, serving as a focal point. The article then features a Moscow apartment by SKNYPL, where two rows of pivoting oak doors replace solid walls, separating zones for sleeping, lounging, and dining. These doors allow the spaces to combine into a single, expansive area, maximizing daylight from the living area’s bay window nook, which is clad in tiles inspired by the public areas of the 1952 landmarked building. A flower-shaped epoxy-resin aperture directs light from the living area into the windowless bathroom, and custom furniture evokes the ambiance of a mid-century Soviet academic flat. Studio Zooco’s Madrid home, a semidetached house with a deep 40-foot floor plate, was redesigned to improve daylight influx and connectivity between its four levels. A skylit cutaway above the stairwell acts as a "lantern," enhancing light distribution. The interior features a serene and reductive palette of pale oak millwork and white-painted walls. The same wood is consistently used for functional elements, including storage enclosures, the hearth, a slatted screen at the entry, and a built-in breakfast nook. Finally, a Kraków home by Butterfly Studio reflects the homeowners' appreciation for Wes Anderson films through nostalgia-tinged pastel hues and strategic color-blocking. This design creates "rooms-within-rooms" and conceals structural elements like dropped ceilings. The decor balances playful accessories with functional features, such as a built-in cat-litter box and a kitchen island with a retractable screen for movie projection. The recurring use of terrazzo throughout the home is a nod to the homeowners' preference for the material. #UrbanLiving #ModernDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorRenovation #SpaceOptimization #ApartmentDesign #FunctionalistDesign #AdaptiveReuse #HistoricBuildings

Australian designer Greg Natale's firm undertook the makeover of a narrow 19th-century town house in New York, drawing inspiration from the art deco era as seen through 1970s European cinema. The project, located on Manhattan's Upper East Side, was commissioned by repeat clients Leticia Francini and Stephen Ninnes, who sought to infuse their new American pied-à-terre with the color, pattern, and layering reminiscent of maximalist European restaurants. The four-story, mixed-use property includes a ground-floor retail space, which was converted into a white-box studio for their Art With Love Foundation, offering free workshops in Renaissance painting techniques. Natale's design approach for the 3,330-square-foot residence involved painting rooms—walls and ceilings—in a rich palette of blush, plum, terra-cotta, and various greens. Colorful shades of veined marble, such as Calacatta Viola, Rosso Levanto, and Verde Alpi, are extensively used on floors, walls, countertops, a fireplace, and to frame portals and doors. The intricate stonework was facilitated by the clients' relationship with an Italian quarrier, who cut the marble in Italy and sent masons to New York for installation. An exterior intervention included reinstating a historically appropriate double street entrance, with two doors defined by fluted limestone pilasters, leading separately to the art foundation and the residence. Engineered oak flooring in a herringbone pattern, designed by Natale, is used throughout much of the home, creating a vivid and welcoming interior within the narrow 12½-foot-wide brick building. The town house, previously renovated in the 1970s, retained its general layout but was stripped to the studs. The living spaces, including a sitting room, kitchen, and dining room, are situated on the middle level, flanked by two two-bedroom floors to accommodate the clients' five adult children. Mirror paneling, especially an art deco-inflected arrangement of bronze- and smoke-hued rectangles in the dining area, enhances the sense of space. The dining area also features a starburst molding centered on an 1980s Murano-glass chandelier, a modern interpretation of Italy's Liberty style. Murals play a significant role in setting the European tone, with an embroidered linen-and-silk mural based on Henri Matisse’s Jazz cutouts in the second-floor hallway and a wallpaper blowup of Wassily Kandinsky’s 1935 painting Deux points verts in the living room. The furniture selection combines vintage and contemporary Italian pieces. The living room features a Gianfranco Frattini 1970s Sesann sofa and Arnold Madsen 1944 Clam armchairs, complemented by a concrete-framed Iris mirror by Shawna and Matt Heide and a custom Anna Bonino paper pendant fixture. The dining area includes Dirk van der Kooij’s recycled-plastic Meltingpot table and Juliana Lima Vasconcellos’s Giraffe chairs. The main bathroom showcases Italian rationalism with a complex inlaid-marble shower pattern, while the adjacent bedroom features Mehmet and Dimonah Iksel’s hand-painted White Blossom wallpaper and Vincent Darré’s Neofutur headboard. A notable feature is the dressing room, connected to the main bedroom by marble-encrusted portals, designed to resemble a high-end boutique with sculptural marble-slab dividers forming open closets. #GregNatale #NewYorkTownHouse #ArtDeco #EuropeanCinemaInfluence #MaximalistDesign #MarbleInteriors #VintageFurniture #CustomMurals #InteriorRenovation