Textiles and Texture Define This Arty Carroll Gardens Townhome

This blog post highlights a four-story townhouse located at 356 President Street in the historic Carroll Gardens neighborhood. Built in 1869, the property has recently been listed for just over $4 million, showcasing a blend of historical architectural details and modern upgrades. The exterior of the townhouse features an arched doorway, original paneled doors, Italianate cast iron hand railings, and an impressive cornice, all preserved within a historic district. Inside, the residence has undergone recent restoration efforts to maintain its original charm. These restorations include eight fireplaces, five of which boast ornate marble mantels, as well as plaster moldings, ceiling medallions, decorative trim, and the original wood floors. The property is currently configured as a three-bedroom owner's duplex, with the garden floor housing the bedrooms and the parlor floor dedicated to living spaces. Additionally, the third and fourth floors are designed as two separate rental apartments, offering potential income. The parlor floor hosts a dedicated dining room adjacent to an eat-in kitchen. The dining room features a fireplace framed by an intricately carved marble mantlepiece. The owner's renovated kitchen is noted for its ample natural light, courtesy of large windows, and its direct access to a deck. One of the rental apartments also includes a kitchen with nearly floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring bright living spaces throughout the property. Bedroom configurations vary, with one bedroom offering a lofty aesthetic characterized by exposed ceiling beams and an exposed brick fireplace painted white. Another bedroom retains more historic elements, including its own fireplace and tin ceilings. The outdoor space has also been significantly upgraded by a landscape architect. The backyard now features vertical cedar fencing, new retaining walls, built-in seating, and a bluestone patio, accessible from the kitchen's deck. This redesigned outdoor area provides a private retreat. Overall, the townhouse at 356 President Street presents a meticulously restored property that balances its historical integrity with contemporary living needs, offering both a luxurious owner's residence and income-generating rental units within a desirable Brooklyn neighborhood. #CarrollGardens #Townhouse #BrooklynRealEstate #HistoricHomes #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalDetails #HomeRestoration #NYCRealEstate

The selection of paint colors and finishes in brownstones and townhouses is a critical aspect of renovation, often presenting numerous options and varying opinions that can be overwhelming. Interior designers emphasize the use of classic and neutral colors as the most effective approach for these types of homes. Tamara Eaton, an interior designer, frequently employs soft whites for walls in townhouses, almost always opting for Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace for trim due to its crisp white quality. This crisp white then serves as a foundation for introducing subtle color on the walls. Eaton's preference leans towards creamy whites or off-whites for walls, generally avoiding bold colors and certain grays. Eaton expresses a reservation about the widespread use of trendy gray walls in townhouses, unless they are specifically a soft, warm gray. She notes that in the presence of warm wood floors and traditional architectural details, gray can often appear too cold and institutional. Complementing this perspective, interior designer Lauren Stern advocates for warm, earthy colors in townhouses. Her suggestions include Benjamin Moore's Chantilly Lace and Linen White, as well as Farrow & Ball's Hay or Elephant’s Breath. Stern stresses the importance of maintaining consistency between paint colors, interior finishes, and architectural elements with the historical period of the building. She believes that modern design elements are best introduced through movable items such as furnishings and accessories. Rich, warm colors are favored for their ability to emulate the effect of oil paint and plaster, materials traditionally found in brownstones. When it comes to paint finishes, Stern recommends a matte finish for walls to absorb light, a satin finish to create a luminous effect, and a high gloss finish specifically for moldings, millwork, and doors. She highlights the necessity of testing paint colors in several spots within a room, as colors can appear differently depending on the time of day, floor color, and both interior and exterior lighting conditions. This variability means that the same paint color can exhibit distinct appearances in different spaces. Jen Albano, another interior designer, suggests utilizing lighter and darker variations of a chosen color to establish continuity between rooms and connect various parts of the house. Alternatively, one can maintain a single color for walls, trim, and ceilings. Albano frequently adopts a cleaner, more modern palette in older homes, particularly vertical Brooklyn houses with intricate trims, by applying one color from floor to ceiling and varying only the sheen. This technique is particularly effective in hallways and for shelving, enhancing the perception of high ceilings. In a current townhouse project, Albano is painting long, dark hallways entirely in different sheen levels of Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl. She advises against using white on its own in darker, narrow halls unless it is a consistent color throughout the entire house. On occasion, Eaton deviates from a muted palette, opting for dramatic dark colors like charcoal or navy blue (such as Benjamin Moore’s Deep Space or Hale Navy) on both walls and trim. While she once had the opportunity to paint a powder room pink, she generally finds that classic and reserved colors are more suitable for brownstones and townhouses. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #Brownstone #Townhouse #HomeRenovation #NeutralPalette #ClassicColors #ArchitecturalElements #DesignTips

This article highlights the transformation of a Victorian terrace in south London, where designer Laura Stephens reconfigured its layout to inject light and modern living while preserving its historical character. The project addressed the common dilemma of modernizing classic townhouses by integrating contemporary elements without compromising original features like paneling, plasterwork, and traditional layouts. Instead of extensive structural changes, Stephens focused on a less interventionist approach, retaining the 19th-century architecture and skillfully adapting the floor plan to suit a modern family. Key changes included relocating the sitting room to the back, moving the kitchen to the middle, and positioning the dining room, which also functions as a small home office, at the front of the house. To enhance natural light, a glazed screen was installed between the hallway and dining room, creating an effect similar to an old-fashioned office partition, which significantly brightened the front of the home. The design incorporated fresh colors, and natural textures like jute and seagrass, along with subtle architectural details to create a living space that feels both contemporary and timeless. The kitchen features periwinkle blue cabinetry designed to complement the high ceilings, contrasted with 'utilitarian' white metro tiles and bronze hardware, which adds a touch of aged elegance. In the sitting room, a new fireplace was installed, and half-paneling was introduced to balance the striped wallpaper. The designer also focused on sustainability and cost-effectiveness by recovering existing furniture pieces such as sofas, armchairs, dining chairs, and an ottoman, demonstrating a commitment to preserving and repurposing items. The main bedroom underwent a significant transformation, with previously 'bleak' wardrobes being revitalized by glazed doors lined with gathered fabric. A gauzy pendant light was chosen for its sculptural quality, echoing the textured pink wallcovering that envelops the room. In the top-floor bathroom, an innovative solution was found when a shortage of mustard and white tiles led to the installation of a mirror panel. This not only extended the striped design but also visually expanded the cozy, eaves-tucked space. Laura Stephens also designed unique rugs in collaboration with Bombay Sprout, incorporating motifs based on antique passementerie and natural jute textures, reflecting the blend of past and present in the home's overall design. Laura Stephens shared her style inspiration, citing her satisfaction with the glazed wall, her preference for 'Spruce' by Paint & Paper Library as a go-to color, and drawing inspiration from interior design books, historical and contemporary, as well as her youngest daughter. She expressed admiration for architect Gil Schafer and the Chrysler Building in New York City. The project successfully created a bright, comfortable, and ageless living space that honors its Victorian roots while embracing modern functionality and aesthetics. #LondonTownhouse #VictorianRenovation #InteriorDesign #LauraStephens #HomeRedesign #ColorPalette #TextureMixing #NaturalLight #KitchenDesign #BedroomTransformation

Tailored Home, an upscale design center, has opened its second location in Greenville, Delaware, taking over the space previously occupied by The Enchanted Owl at Two Greenville Crossing. The new store builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, which operated for over half a century, selling fine china and other home accoutrements. Starr Osborne, the founder of Tailored Home, identified a strong market in Chateau Country for her design services and retail offerings, drawing parallels between Greenville's sophisticated clientele and that of her successful first location in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. Osborne’s business portfolio also includes Philadelphia’s first home-staging firm and a white-glove relocation service. Her decision to expand into Greenville was prompted by the retirement of The Enchanted Owl's owner, Louise Hoffman, creating an opportunity to fill a void in the local luxury retail landscape. The Greenville store offers access to design services through its Chestnut Hill counterpart, ensuring a comprehensive approach to home aesthetics for its patrons. The store continues to embrace tradition by offering a bridal registry that combines personalized consultation with a digital platform. Despite a general shift towards more casual entertaining since The Enchanted Owl first opened in 1971, Tailored Home observes a continued demand for traditional fine goods. Osborne, an interior designer by profession, emphasizes the importance of setting a beautiful table for any occasion, aiming to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests and encouraging the regular use of quality items. Among the legacy brands carried by Tailored Home are Herend, a porcelain manufacturer favored by royalty such as Queen Victoria and Princess Diana, as well as Simon Pearce and Mottahedeh, all of which were previously staples at The Enchanted Owl. In an expansion of its product range, Tailored Home has also introduced bed and bath products, featuring luxury brands like Abyss & Habidecor, John Robshaw, Matouk, Pigeon and Poodle, and Sferra. This diversification reflects an effort to cater to a broader spectrum of home design needs while maintaining an emphasis on high-quality and luxurious goods. Starr Osborne, who holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from Yale University and was a fellow at Historic Deerfield, views her current work as a continuation of curating homes. Her philosophy centers on the belief that homes should be both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, serving as a cherished space for individuals to live and grow. The new Greenville location aims to provide residents with a destination for sophisticated home furnishings and design expertise. #HomeDesign #LuxuryRetail #GreenvilleDelaware #InteriorDesign #BridalRegistry #FineChina #HomeFurnishings #StarrOsborne #ChateauCountry

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

Interior designer Rachel Hills, founder and creative director of Rachel Hills Design Co., and her architect husband, Paul, principal of the Hills Group, have collaborated to create their modern California home. Completed in 2024, this new-build residence, located on a street named Tesoro, meaning “treasure” in Spanish, reflects the couple’s three decades of design experience. The project was conceived with a clear objective: to downsize thoughtfully and design a space that is both intuitive and refined, balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal. Every element in the house serves a purpose and contributes to its overall feeling. The home’s architecture and interior design were meticulously handled in-house, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious flow. The exterior features clean lines and a contemporary aesthetic, softened by organic materials and a natural color palette that seamlessly transitions to the interior. A key design element throughout the house is the thoughtful integration of accent walls. These walls, rather than being overtly dramatic, are subtly impactful, contributing to the home's nuanced texture and visual interest. For instance, the kitchen showcases richly patterned marble paired with two-tone cabinetry in spruce green and light oak. Honed black soapstone countertops, with their delicate green veining, subtly echo the cabinetry, while a gold metallic backsplash from Artistic Tile adds a touch of glamour. Hills emphasized the importance of tactile quality, ensuring surfaces were interesting without overwhelming the space. This emphasis on tactile richness extends to other areas of the home. In the living room, a linear fireplace from EcoSmart is integrated into a concrete tile wall, creating a sculptural contrast to the smooth wooden floors. Curved ceilings, ranging from 14 to 17 feet, are highlighted by custom steel I-beams that align with the architectural design. The ground floor features an open layout that offers views of an internal courtyard, a central element of the home. This courtyard, designed around a century-old olive tree and framed by glass walls, serves as a serene focal point, bringing natural light and a sense of calm into multiple rooms, providing a rhythmic and contemplative space. Art and personal history are woven into the interiors. A large painting of an Egyptian queen, salvaged and painted on tile, is a dramatic feature in the living room. Rachel Hills’s own artwork is also displayed, including an ocean-inspired canvas in the hallway and a floral painting in the guest bedroom, which introduces a softer, more traditional accent wall concept. The bathrooms also feature distinct surfaces; the primary suite includes softly textured wallpaper and an en-suite with metallic Italian stone-look flooring and charcoal tiles from WOW Design. The guest bath combines white marble with deep charcoal accents from Ann Sacks, demonstrating careful composition and visual variety while maintaining overall design consistency. Practicality was a significant consideration in the design. The home includes two separate kitchens: one for entertaining and another specifically tailored for the husband's weekly cooking routine. Hills underscores that functionality does not necessitate compromise but rather encourages intelligent design. The home, therefore, is not primarily intended to impress but to genuinely reflect the couple's current lifestyle, focusing on efficiency, clarity, and thoughtful living with fewer but more intentional possessions. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AccentWalls #ModernHome #CaliforniaLiving #Texture #NaturalPalette #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHomes

Architects Alexandra Burr and Allen Slamic of AlexAllen Studio undertook a comprehensive renovation of a 19th-century wood-frame townhouse in Greenpoint, transforming a dimly lit and structurally compromised dwelling into a bright, energy-efficient home. The initial state of the two-stories-plus-basement row house was described as unpromising, characterized by vinyl cladding, modest size, and cavernous rooms with minimal natural light. A significant structural concern involved the fire hazard posed by shared roof cavities across five connected buildings, necessitating immediate sealing and disconnection from neighboring properties. The renovation focused heavily on enhancing natural light and improving energy efficiency. To achieve this, walls were removed on the ground and a portion of the second floor, and the stair opening was enlarged, sacrificing some upstairs floor space to increase light flow. An existing skylight was expanded, and larger window openings were created on the rear facade, resulting in a dramatic increase in natural illumination. All windows were replaced with double-glazed tilt-and-turn units, except for casement windows in the kitchen, and the HVAC and other mechanical systems were entirely updated, significantly improving the home's energy performance. Attention to design details was paramount, with AlexAllen Studio adopting a pared-down aesthetic that integrated historical elements in a simplified manner. The stair, for instance, retained traditional components like spindles, railing, and a newel post but with a modernized, simplified design. A key design choice involved using reveals instead of moldings at the junctures of walls and ceilings. This technique creates subtle shadow lines, offering a cleaner, more refined look than traditional moldings, though it required more meticulous craftsmanship. The design firm's expertise extended beyond architecture to include interiors, furniture, and lighting design, ensuring a cohesive vision for the entire project. The homeowners' personal touches are integral to the home's character. One of the owners, a photographer, film director, and hobbyist woodworker, crafted numerous pieces of furniture in a basement wood shop. These custom-made items include the kitchen table and stools, a daybed in the living room, the primary bedroom's bed, and children's furniture, adding a unique and personal dimension to the interior. The kitchen, a central feature, was designed in an open-plan layout following the removal of a load-bearing wall. Its palette consists of whites, grays, and natural wood, with a Douglas fir glulam beam emphasizing the soffit where the wall once stood. Vermont Plank flooring, sealed with clear oil to preserve its natural color, contributes to the earthy material scheme. The kitchen design was influenced by BDDW tiles, around which the rest of the elements, including Reform cabinets with painted doors, custom oak veneer millwork, and Atlantic Lava Stone countertops, were coordinated. The homeowner also fabricated the light fixture above the kitchen table. Throughout the house, custom oak veneer doors, trimmed with white oak, maintain a consistent aesthetic, with a large pocket door leading to the primary suite allowing for an expansive sightline. The primary bath features zellige tiles from Clé and an existing skylight positioned over the shower, with angled walls to maximize light, alongside a custom oak veneer vanity with an Arabescato marble top and trim. A second full bath on the top floor serves the family's child, completing the thoughtful and integrated design of the renovated Greenpoint townhouse. #GreenpointTownhouse #HomeRenovation #AlexAllenStudio #InteriorDesign #NaturalMaterials #EnergyEfficiency #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #BrooklynRealEstate

Architect and designer Ili Hidalgo-Nilsson, owner of Terracotta Design/Build, undertook a comprehensive renovation of a 1990s Decatur townhouse to create a vibrant and personalized living space for herself and her daughter. The primary appeal of the property was its abundant natural light, facilitated by 12-foot ceilings and numerous windows in the corner unit. This feature allowed for light fixtures to be chosen more for their aesthetic contribution than their functional necessity, contributing to the home's luminous atmosphere. Hidalgo-Nilsson prioritized factors such as a charming neighborhood, good schools, proximity to work, and minimal landscaping maintenance, all of which the townhouse satisfied. The renovation involved several key transformations. A significant aspect was the application of high-gloss paint to all walls and trim throughout the house. This choice was deliberate to amplify natural light, creating a glowing effect that brightens the interiors. The design philosophy integrated classical modern aesthetics with personal touches inspired by Hidalgo-Nilsson’s Puerto Rican heritage. For example, the office features a woven rug that evokes Caribbean porch styles, and the kitchen’s concrete tile backsplash, with its geometric navy-and-white pattern, is reminiscent of coastal Caribbean design, providing a sense of home and a visual anchor when descending the stairs. Experimentation with a more exuberant color palette marked a departure from previous residences. Favorite shades of blue were prominently used in the kitchen and master bath, while raspberry and lavender accents complemented a base of light gray and white in other areas. The renovation adhered to an 'edit, edit, edit' mantra, which involved removing dated elements such as columns, archways, cherry kitchen cabinets, and ornate lighting. Hardwood floors were refinished from a honey tone to a refined gray. Furnishings were curated to a selection of beloved antiques and contemporary pieces, reflecting a balance between old and new. Specific room transformations included a kitchen remodel where original cabinetry was replaced with ceiling-height units, featuring a wall of high-gloss navy cabinets that ground the space against pale-gray island and perimeter cabinets, all equipped with Thermador appliances. The staircase was modernized with glossy white paint and a simplified railing, and museum trim was added to highlight artwork. The former dining room was converted into a stylish office, featuring a glossy gray ceiling, white lacquered furniture from West Elm, and raspberry accents through X-benches and Jonathan Adler lamps. A sunroom was repurposed into a dining area, furnished with a Saarinen dining table and ivory leather reupholstered chairs, alongside a gallery wall displaying personal items including a vintage Caribbean map and a drawing by her father. A bar area was updated with light lavender-gray cabinets, glass doors, and a mirrored backsplash, complemented by a bargain light fixture from Cost Plus World Market. The master bedroom, a spacious area, accommodates a tranquil sitting area with an Oushak rug and furry benches from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. The master bath’s design was inspired by ocean art, influencing the choice of striking blue, shiny cabinets, and includes a wooden ledge for convenience near the tub. Bird prints, acquired inexpensively, were elevated with gold frames in the master bedroom’s seating area, adding a sophisticated touch. The project served as a demonstration of the significant impact high-gloss paint can have on interior spaces, showcasing a blend of glamour and functionality. The design choices, from material selections to color schemes, collectively contribute to a sophisticated yet personally resonant home that maximizes its natural light and embodies the architect’s creative vision. #DecaturTownhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HighGlossPaint #ColorfulInteriors #TerracottaDesignBuild #IliHidalgoNilsson #ModernClassics #PuertoRicanInfluence

Tamsin Saunders, founder of the design studio Home & Found, has transformed a 1930s cottage in south-west London into a deeply personal home. Initially drawn to the property for its generous, albeit unloved, garden rather than its architecture, Saunders envisioned creating something beautiful. The house, a modest red-brick building, overlooked an open meadow and, despite its unremarkable exterior, presented an opportunity for transformation. Upon moving in, Saunders initially focused on essential structural updates and decoration. However, as her three children grew, the need for more flexible living and entertaining spaces prompted a comprehensive reconfiguration and expansion. A significant addition was an airy rear extension on the ground floor, meticulously designed to integrate a kitchen, dining area, a garden-view seating area, a study, and a laundry room within a relatively small footprint, all while maintaining the cottage’s graceful proportions. Wide French windows in this space frame views of mature trees and lush planting, creating a seamless flow between the interior and the garden. The design emphasizes simplicity, utilizing thoughtful joinery and furniture placement to define distinct areas without creating a sense of separation. The home's design reflects cherished memories and an intuitive approach to beauty. For instance, the wood paneling in the extension was inspired by a tiny outbuilding Saunders admired at a friend's house. Similarly, a sofa was created by reupholstering and reshaping a chaise found in a market, demonstrating her love for improvisation and unique pieces. A separate study provides Saunders with a workspace, offering views of nature and housing a collection of botanical drawings found by chance, adding a layer of serendipity to the decor. The former front living room was converted into a cozy snug, a family favorite during winter. The room features deep, glossy chocolate brown walls, which cleverly dissolve its edges and create an intimate atmosphere. This rich background highlights a mix of textures, materials, and objects, such as a sofa upholstered in Dutch linen with an old blanket and another covered in a rejected Bennison fabric, showcasing Saunders' ability to find beauty in unexpected places. Upstairs, each bedroom reflects the occupant's personality. Freya's room features a headboard upholstered in Svenskt Tenn's 'Mirakel' linen, with Chinese watercolors echoing its vibrant palette. Freya, who founded Black Lion Workshops, also painted various details in her room, giving new life to old lamps and decor elements. Tamsin’s own bedroom, located in the attic extension, is sparsely decorated with soft off-white walls with green undertones, allowing the windows to act as dynamic artworks framing the natural views. The tranquil shed at the end of the garden, built from reclaimed wood and hidden by trees, further exemplifies the home’s organic evolution. Its interior, adorned with patterns painted by Freya, draws inspiration from natural forms and historical motifs. Ultimately, the cottage embodies an approach where every element is brought together instinctively, rooted in memory and emotion, creating a natural and evolving home experience. #HomeDesign #CottageRenovation #InteriorDesign #GardenLiving #PersonalizedDecor #SustainableDesign #LondonHome #FamilyLiving #IntuitiveDesign

Lisa and Gary Mieran, owners of Akyrah Kitchens, designed and largely built their two-storey, industrial-style home with modernist influences in Gympie, Queensland. The house, completed in December 2019 after a two-stage construction, is situated on land historically owned by Lisa's family. The design draws inspiration from Heide II, a modernist icon in Melbourne, celebrating concrete, timber, abundant light, and earthy tones. Lisa envisioned a home that would rise organically from the earth, becoming an integral part of the landscape and improving with age. The structure features off-form concrete, walls of glass, and tactile timbers, with the lower storey clad in cedar and the upper storey in recycled hardwood. Steel balustrading, handcrafted by Gary, complements the exterior, which also includes a swimming pool with Andorra limestone pavers. The interior features a breezeway offering spectacular views and airflow, with ceilings made of Henley Oak Grove engineered timber. The foyer includes a BassamFellows 'Geometric' day bed and artworks by Steve Waller. Given their expertise with Akyrah Kitchens, the kitchen in their home is a highlight, featuring blackbutt veneer doors, Basaltina benchtops, Circa taps from Brodware, and Inax 'Ceravio G' tiles. The living areas include a guest sitting area with a B&B Italia 'Le Bambole' sofa and a living room with a Cheminées Philippe fireplace and Jardan furnishings. The home was built in two stages to accommodate their grown children, Taren and Kirra. The first stage was a self-contained flat, which served as their temporary residence during the main build and now functions as a guest wing. The main house and another guest wing are connected by glassed walkways, with the main bedroom suite located upstairs. This design allows for three self-contained bedrooms with ensuites, providing private quarters for everyone while centralizing communal living spaces. Practicality and functionality are key design principles, evident in the integrated laundry within the bathroom behind a blackbutt joinery feature wall, and the kitchen's two large islands designed for simplicity and ample storage. The materials used throughout the home emphasize natural elements. Recycled timber is used for the upper storey and blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the seamless flow of concrete from exterior to interior reinforces the architectural aesthetic. The home is designed for climate control, with generous light for winter warmth and cross-breezes for summer cooling. Lisa also undertook the landscaping, incorporating native plants like Xanthorrhoea, pandanus, native grasses, and succulents. The furniture, much of it Australian-made from brands like Jardan, is chosen for its timeless appeal and durability, reflecting the couple's preference for classic design over fleeting trends. The house stands as a testament to the couple's comprehensive involvement and shared vision, combining their professional skills with personal passions to create a harmonious and functional living space. #ModernistArchitecture #IndustrialStyle #ConcreteDesign #TimberAccents #SustainableMaterials #HomeDesign #OwnerBuilt #QueenslandHome #InteriorDesign

Liz Carroll, an interior designer, transformed a vacation home in Roaring Gap, North Carolina, for a client who initially requested an all-white aesthetic. Despite the homeowner's desire for a neutral palette, Carroll recognized the potential for vibrant colors due to the home's expansive windows and abundant natural light. She proposed a design incorporating darker hues such as burgundy, plums, browns, greens, and mustard yellows, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape. The client, though hesitant at first, ultimately embraced Carroll's vision. The design process involved a significant leap of faith for the homeowner, as Carroll introduced bold patterns and earthy tones, particularly in the den. For the twin daughters' bedroom, a Sister Parish print was extensively used on the walls, beds, and Roman shades, creating a cohesive and striking look. The homeowner acknowledged this experience as a lesson in releasing control and trusting the designer's expertise. The family's primary objective for the home was its versatility, ensuring it could comfortably accommodate both intimate family nights and large social gatherings of up to a hundred guests. Architect Clark Tate played a crucial role in achieving this balance by designing a floor plan that seamlessly integrated open living areas with more secluded, cozy spaces. Carroll’s interior design choices further enhanced this functionality. The den, for instance, was adorned with a moody yet playful wallpaper and furnished with a deep sectional, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation. In contrast, the lighter-toned living room was designed to flow effortlessly into an outdoor sitting area, perfect for entertaining large groups. Carroll observed that clients tend to be more adventurous with design choices in vacation homes, often being more receptive to incorporating unconventional elements like bold wallpapers or unusually colored trim. This willingness to take risks allowed her to create a unique and unexpected environment for the homeowner, ultimately exceeding their initial expectations. The home became a testament to the idea that vacation properties offer a unique opportunity for creative and daring interior design. #InteriorDesign #VacationHome #ColorPalette #BoldPatterns #LizCarroll #HomeDecor #NorthCarolina #ArchitecturalDesign

If a home's interiors appear bland, boring, or monotonous, incorporating layering techniques can transform these spaces into curated, inviting, and stylish environments. Layering involves combining various textures, finishes, and materials to add depth and make a space feel more "lived in" and vibrant. This approach goes beyond mere aesthetics, aiming to create a multi-sensory experience that engages sight, touch, and movement, resulting in a harmonious flow within the composition. One effective method for layering involves grounding the space by utilizing rugs. Since the floor is often the largest uninterrupted surface, it serves as an ideal canvas for introducing texture and depth. This can be achieved by starting with a large, handwoven base rug made from materials like jute, wool, or a silk blend, which anchors the room. To add personality and create a focal point, a smaller, patterned rug, such as a kilim, Moroccan Beni Ourain, or antique Persian, can be layered on top. Furthermore, using an organic-shaped rug over a rectangular base can soften architectural edges and help delineate specific zones within open-plan living areas, contributing to both visual interest and functional organization. Walls also offer significant opportunities for layering to enhance a room's character. Applying various wall treatments can impart a sense of architecture and tactility. Textured wallpapers, including grasscloth, silk, or linen, can introduce subtle richness and visual interest. Panelling, whether in wood, lacquer, or fluted profiles, creates dynamic shadow play and adds depth to the walls. A sophisticated and finished look can be achieved by combining these elements, for example, by framing a silk wallpaper within slim timber panelling, which adds a tailored touch. Textiles can transcend their traditional roles as upholstery or drapery to become striking art pieces. Hanging a vintage suzani, a woven wall hanging, or a contemporary tapestry can bring softness and a narrative quality to a room. To further enhance dimension and establish a dynamic focal point, a sculptural wall light or a floating shelf can be strategically placed in front of the textile, drawing the eye and adding another layer of visual complexity. Sculptural elements also gain presence when carefully layered with other materials. A ceramic, stone, or bronze sculpture can be positioned in front of a textured wall, such as one finished with silk, timber, or polished plaster, to create a compelling contrast. On shelving units, grouping smaller sculptures with books, framed art, and decorative vessels can contribute to a collected, lived-in feel, reflecting a curated aesthetic. Finally, achieving a balanced and cohesive layered look requires intentional contrasts. Pairing smooth materials like marble with open-weave linen, placing a matte clay vase against a lustrous lacquered cabinet, or introducing woven baskets into a room with clean-lined furniture can effectively soften the overall aesthetic and create a harmonious yet dynamic interior. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #LayeringTechniques #TexturedWalls #RugsAndThrows #SculpturalElements #TextileArt #VisualDepth #ContemporaryHomes

A two-decade-old Hilltop property, despite its spacious floor plan and proximity to local parks, presented an aesthetic challenge for its new owners. The house, initially characterized by traditional design elements such as sweeping staircases with turned-wood balusters, red-oak-paneled libraries, shimmering chandeliers, arched windows, ornately beaded and beveled cabinetry, and extensive crown molding, was deemed to have a "cupcake-style detailing" that did not align with the family's desire for a softer, calmer, and more welcoming style. To address this, the owners enlisted the expertise of Robin Bryant, lead designer at Factor Design Build, and interior designer Beth Armijo, to undertake a comprehensive aesthetic overhaul. Bryant meticulously preserved the home's structural integrity, retaining architectural features like the arched picture windows, paneled walls, and coffered ceilings. However, she introduced contemporary elements to modernize the space. This included installing sleek new fireplaces and twin sets of steel-framed sliding glass doors in the family room to enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity. The powder room received a bold update with hexagonal tiles on floors and walls, transitioning into a vibrant botanical-print wall covering. The main staircase was transformed by replacing traditional spindles and newel posts with modern metal balusters. _The kitchen, in particular, underwent a significant transformation from its early-aughts appearance. Bryant replaced stainless-steel appliances, a glass mosaic backsplash, and abundant golden oak cabinetry with whitewashed white-oak slab cabinet doors and a backsplash of taupe, ribbed glass tile. A streamlined plaster hood and a modern, folding-panel window were added to one wall, opening to the outdoor dining area. An adjacent wall featured floor-to-ceiling cabinetry with bronze-tinted glass cupboards in aluminum frames, providing an industrial yet sophisticated touch. Matte-white quartz perimeter countertops completed the kitchen's refined backdrop. The centerpiece of the kitchen became a massive slab of Blue Marine quartzite for the island, which introduced a dynamic color palette of robin’s egg blue and gold. These colors were then strategically incorporated throughout the house by Armijo. For instance, a newly created intimate sitting room adjacent to the main bedroom was adorned with a botanical-print wall covering in pale blue and green hues, which extended into the main bedroom's textiles and art. The dining room saw chairs upholstered in smoky blue and vibrant chartreuse, contrasting with warm white walls and trim. The study was dramatically updated with a coat of blackened-teal paint on its paneled walls and coffered ceiling, and the French doors were painted a fresh citron color. Armijo’s intention was to merge traditional structural elements with modern finishes and furniture to achieve a timeless European aesthetic. The selection of new furnishings reflected the homeowners' adventurous spirit, featuring sculptural side tables and playful chandeliers. A curved living room sofa and rounded swivel chairs were chosen to soften the home's rigid formality. Armijo also emphasized the use of diverse textures, incorporating hearty wool rugs, soft sheer and linen draperies, chunky chenilles, wool bouclés, and plush velvets. The design focused on texture and color rather than excessive pattern, drawing visual interest from the architecture's geometries and the furniture's curves. This collaborative effort between Bryant and Armijo successfully transformed the Hilltop home into a vibrant, modern, and welcoming space that reflects the owners' personality and willingness to embrace innovative design. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #ModernRenovation #HilltopHome #CustomFurniture #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalPreservation #TexturalElements

Liz and Daniel Farrar, after living in Charlotte for over a decade and residing in several rental homes, finally found their ideal property on Carmel Road in South Charlotte. While the existing house itself held no appeal, the 3.6-acre lot, adorned with five 100-year-old magnolia trees, captivated them. Initially, the couple planned a renovation to accommodate their four children, aged 4 to 13. However, their architect and contractor advised against salvaging the old structure due to previous improper renovations, making a complete rebuild the more practical option. Having lived in numerous houses and with Liz's parents having built custom homes, the Farrars aimed to integrate their favorite elements into their 'forever home'. They enlisted Benham Builders, architect Scott Fleming, and designer Crystal Nagel to bring their vision to life, resulting in a new 7,600-square-foot residence. Their wish list was extensive and specific: Daniel desired a wraparound porch and large wood-burning fireplaces, while Liz sought an art deco style and 'dueling offices' off the foyer. The children wanted a pool, and the entire family prioritized ample space for entertaining and a kitchen capable of accommodating many people. Crystal Nagel emphasized designing a home that would serve the family for the long term, incorporating all their needs from the outset. Groundbreaking occurred in January 2022, and Crystal collaborated closely with Liz on every design decision, noting Liz's strong communication skills and clarity in identifying priorities. They opted for a light-colored, knotty floor for a casual feel, complemented by stained kitchen cabinets. While Liz favored bold colors, Crystal expertly moderated this preference to translate her vibrant personality into the home's aesthetic without overwhelming it. The exterior was designed in a classic Cape Cod style to blend seamlessly with the existing magnolias. As a mother of four herself, Crystal understood the need for functionality, designing what she termed a 'workhorse of a house' with durable furniture and fixtures. The interior boasts six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, and two half-baths. The outdoor living space spans 2,500 square feet, featuring a covered patio, grill, and fireplace. A bright-yellow 'friend entrance' door on the side of the house, symbolic of friendship and happiness for Liz, adds a welcoming touch. The kitchen is equipped with two dishwashers, three sinks, a 60-inch Wolf range, and two oversized islands, designed for both dining and prep space, facilitating large gatherings. The islands are painted in Sherwin-Williams’ Underseas, with white oak cabinets featuring a matte finish. Durable quartz countertops and wipeable leather bar stools were selected. A glass mosaic tile backsplash serves as an accent wall, and brass hardware complements the custom vent hood. A retractable window above the sink opens to the patio, functioning as a snack bar for the pool area. The scullery includes a refrigerator, sink, and dishwasher, with a modern art deco marble backsplash featuring a brass inset, contrasting with the kitchen's more functional design. For the butler’s pantry, a fishtail tile backsplash with glittery marble adds an art deco touch. The cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore's Montpelier and feature reeded glass doors. The spacious mudroom, designated the 'command center,' has porcelain brick floor tiles for dirt concealment and a large island for laundry. Each family member has a dedicated locker with shoe storage beneath, crafted from natural stained wood for durability. The primary bathroom features stained white oak cabinets, white porcelain plank flooring, and a makeup station with abundant natural light. Custom-made large mirrors from Frame Warehouse and polished nickel light fixtures from Visual Comfort were installed. The cabinet hardware incorporates reeded pulls, and the sinks have a scalloped texture, subtly echoing the art deco theme. Liz's 'dueling offices' flank the foyer, which opens into a family room with 10-foot ceilings and a grand fireplace for Daniel. A fluted console table with a Josh Jensen painting and sconces occupies a nook beside the fireplace, connecting to the primary bedroom. The sofa was custom-made, with accent chairs and tables sourced from Slate Interiors, lamps from Black Lion, and an area rug from The Loom and Co., reflecting Liz's 'eclectic and collected' style. Since moving in last July, the house has been a hub of activity, fulfilling the family's desire for a welcoming and functional home for entertaining and everyday life. #HomeDesign #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #CharlotteRealEstate #FamilyHome #ArtDecoInfluence #KitchenDesign #FunctionalLiving #TeardownRebuild

The article showcases Liz Tew's favorite room, highlighting her approach to creating a relaxing and inviting living space. The design centers on a serene color palette, utilizing Benjamin Moore's Pale Oak for the walls, which sets a calming foundation for the room's aesthetic. This choice of wall color contributes significantly to the overall tranquil ambiance of the living area. Several key design elements are incorporated to enhance the room's visual appeal and comfort. Woven raffia wall hangings are prominently featured, adding texture and a natural, organic touch to the space. These hangings are noted as a growing trend in home decor, indicating a contemporary design sensibility. The integration of art pieces is another significant aspect of the room's design, with a collection from artists Annie Howell, Katie Hinshelwood, Grace Pouch, and Whitney Stoddard creating a cohesive and visually stimulating grouping. This curated selection of art reflects a thoughtful approach to personalizing the space. Natural elements are strategically used to introduce warmth and visual interest. A wooden circular mirror serves as a natural texture element, providing a contrast to the cooler tones in the room and adding a sense of organic elegance. Furthermore, a tall fiddle leaf fig tree is positioned in a corner, adding height and bringing a touch of nature indoors, which contributes to the room's freshness and vitality. Textiles play a crucial role in enhancing the comfort and style of the living space. The couch features throw pillows by artist Laura Park, which introduce patterns and colors that complement the overall design. These pillows are paired with thick banded curtains, creating a harmonious and polished look. The attention to detail extends to smaller accents, such as a beaded decoration on a vintage door knob, illustrating how minor elements can contribute to the room's character and charm. A particularly notable art piece in the room is "ÒLarry LlamaÓ" by local artist Marian Pouch. This painting not only serves as a focal point but also connects the interior space to the local art scene, as a larger version of the piece adorns the Camperdown Plaza in downtown Greenville. This inclusion underscores a blend of personal taste with an appreciation for local culture. Overall, Liz Tew's favorite room is characterized by a carefully balanced combination of calming colors, natural textures, curated art, and thoughtful decorative details. The design emphasizes creating an inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment through a harmonious selection of furnishings and decor, reflecting a contemporary yet timeless approach to interior design. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #LivingRoom #PaintColors #HomeStyling #ArtCollection #NaturalElements #TextileDesign #GreenvilleHomes

This article showcases a 7,448-square-foot ranch home in Lake Jackson, Texas, designed by Courtnay Tartt Elias of Creative Tonic Design. The homeowner desired a dream house that was a welcoming gathering place for family and friends. The design's guiding force was the local landscape, characterized by moss-draped oaks and winding waterfront, aiming to create interiors that seamlessly flowed with the outdoors. This connection is immediately apparent upon entering the home, with uninterrupted views bringing the outside in. To manage the expansive scale of the house and ensure livability, Elias implemented her "three purposes" philosophy, meaning each room serves multiple functions. The nearly 22-foot great room exemplifies this approach, featuring distinct zones: two corner sofas for television viewing, a 17-foot banquette for family game nights, and clusters of swivel chairs offering lake views for conversation. Given the vastness of the walls, an 11-foot bookcase was incorporated as a prominent display unit for heirlooms and commissioned art, preventing the space from feeling cavernous. Elias emphasized that scale was crucial, as smaller pieces would have been dwarfed. While gathering spaces are vibrant, private areas prioritize tranquility. The primary suite is adorned with hand-painted wallpaper and coordinating drapery in calming watery blues. A guest wing on the opposite side of the house mirrors this serenity with a suite featuring leafy patterns. Moving down the hall, a bunk room designed for young visitors bursts with vibrant theatrics, including stage-like curtains for impromptu performances, offering a stark contrast to the quiet sophistication elsewhere. Throughout the home, lively colors and layered patterns are consistently used. Examples include lemon-printed tiles in the laundry room and plasterwork branches on the kitchen hood. The article highlights specific rooms and their design elements: The entryway features Aux Abris wallcovering, Oomph consoles, and custom House + Town ottomans. The great room boasts custom sectionals by House + Town in Kravet fabric with Brunschwig & Fils trim, along with M&M Lighting chandeliers. The dining room includes chairs from House + Town with Fanny Shorter and Holly Hunt fabrics, a Doorman dining table, a Stark rug, and Currey & Company chandeliers. The bar, a converted storage space, is painted in Sherwin-Williams Inland and Jocular Green, complemented by jewel-toned glassware. The kitchen features House + Town stools in Ferrick Mason fabric and a chandelier from The Urban Electric Co., with a custom Segreto Finishes plaster hood. The pantry, designed for entertaining, is painted in Sherwin-Williams Broccoflower with Morris & Co. wallpaper on the ceiling and Schumacher fabric-fronted cabinets. The guest suite incorporates Voutsa wallpaper, a Stray Dog Designs sconce, and Sherwin-Williams paints in Faded Flaxflower and Restful. The primary bedroom utilizes Farrow & Ball's Lulworth Blue paint, Gracie Studio wallpaper and drapery, and Doorman nightstands. The primary bath showcases Visual Comfort & Co. fixtures and Designer Stone Center stone, with a Statuario marble shower facade. The closet, a "ladies’ lounge," is lacquered in Sherwin-Williams Lighthearted Pink and features Olivia + Poppy wallpaper. The bunk room includes Serena & Lily bedding, Brunschwig & Fils wallpaper, and a Wildwood chandelier. The kids’ bath features Anna French wallpaper, Julian Chichester sconces with House + Town shades, and Ferguson Home faucets. The kids' shower has red-and-white striped walls and blue hex-tile floors. The laundry room, a multipurpose space, has a desk nook, a Grow House Grow lemon-print cement tile floor, and is painted in Sherwin-Williams Blissful Blue. The veranda, an outdoor living area, includes a custom coffee table, Serena & Lily sofas, and swivel chairs in Harlequin fabric, all chosen for durability in the Houston climate. Carrera Custom Homes and Rice Residential Design contributed to the home's construction. #HomeDesign #RanchHome #InteriorDesign #CreativeTonicDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ColorPalette #PatternPlay #TexasHomes #MultipurposeRooms