The Insider: Cypress Hills Homeowner Showcases Colorful Vintage Style in DIY Reno

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

This article details the renovation of a 19th-century Newton home, transforming it into a luxurious yet family-friendly space for a family of six. The homeowners, moving from a condo, were drawn to the original charm of the 1848 abode, including its authentic millwork, curved staircase, and glass-etched double front doors. Their vision was to infuse the historic property with a fresh, modern energy while preserving its inherent character. Interior designer Cara Fineman spearheaded the "glow up" primarily focusing on the first floor. This involved minor modifications to improve livability in the kitchen, pantry, and three bathrooms. Key updates included new countertops, tile backsplashes, brass hardware, and modern fixtures. Notably, the existing custom Kochman Reidt + Haigh kitchen cabinetry was in excellent condition, necessitating only a fresh coat of wispy white paint. The adjacent pantry and wet bar received a more dramatic makeover with bold new color schemes on existing cabinets, complemented by Aux Abris grasscloth and Ferrick Mason wallcoverings, along with linen window treatments, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fineman's design strategy for the study, family, and living rooms centered on integrating soft furnishings crafted from family-friendly textiles and contemporary lighting. In the family room, a spacious and plush sectional, ottoman, and lounge chairs were installed to create a comfortable gathering space. The living room now features a sleek game table made of lacquered swirl resin, designed to encourage board games and social activities. A significant design element across the communal spaces was the strategic incorporation of color and pattern, particularly through wallpaper, fulfilling the clients' desire for a vibrant and dynamic interior. The home boasts a sophisticated yet serene atmosphere, achieved through a diverse material palette including silk, grasscloth, antique brass, velvet, and rattan. A personalized sanctuary was created for the mother of the house in the first-floor study. This feminine space, designed for quiet reading, features an opal wall color, warm artwork, and bookshelves filled with books, accompanied by an overstuffed sofa for relaxation. Despite having four young children under the age of six, the first floor was intentionally designed to feel luxurious and mature without being overly precious or inaccessible to the kids. The design philosophy emphasized materials that were not easily damaged and the rehabilitation of existing elements rather than complete replacement, such as using natural fibers and updating existing cabinetry. This approach allowed for the preservation of the home's originality while adapting it to the contemporary needs of a young family. The playroom, adjacent to the boys' bedroom, features a lively Serengeti wallpaper, beanbags, storage baskets, and wall shelves, designed to be age-appropriate yet durable for a growing family. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NewtonHome #HistoricHome #FamilyLiving #ModernDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ResidentialDesign

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

This article highlights a residential renovation project in Rye, Westchester County, where designer Tara Kantor collaborated with a family to create a sophisticated and vibrant home. The project, undertaken during the pandemic, focused on incorporating significant amounts of color into a classic Colonial house, a departure from Kantor's typical neutral aesthetic. The clients, a family of four with a dog, desired bold hues of green, orange, pink, and burgundy, and remained committed to this vision throughout the design process. The renovation involved a complete gut and rebuild of the 6,000-square-foot home, with custom details throughout. The grand entry features a double-height ceiling and a sculptural light fixture that complements the metal stair railing, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. Consistent design elements, such as complementary rugs and related color palettes, connect the various open spaces within the home. The living room includes green Sean Woolsey chairs, and the dining room is characterized by a hand-painted Porter Teleo wallpaper with vibrant floral patterns. The dining room also features a custom wire-brushed walnut table and a credenza in a blue leather shade that mirrors the wallpaper's colors. The butler's pantry showcases a rich navy mosaic tile from Artistic Tile, a specific request from the homeowner. Despite the extensive use of color, the design maintains balance through the integration of soothing neutrals. For example, the family room includes wood cabinets and built-ins with a brown cerused wood finish and gray tones, while the oak flooring throughout the house provides a calming, balanced backdrop. Wood tables and textural rugs from Fayette Studio further ground the colorful elements. Practicality and durability were key considerations for the family-friendly home. In the kitchen, where the client initially desired Arabesque marble, Kantor suggested a compromise: a marble backsplash combined with durable Caesarstone for the countertops and island. This approach allowed for the desired aesthetic without sacrificing functionality. The kitchen also features Gubi Beetle chairs, known for being plastic and wipeable, paired with an oval wooden table topped with Caesarstone. Custom bar stools and a custom blue-gray sectional in the adjacent family room are also covered in high-performance, easy-to-clean fabrics, catering to the needs of a household with children and pets. The primary bedroom serves as a tranquil retreat, designed with a minimal and neutral palette of creams and taupes. It includes soft wool rugs from Fayette Studio and subtle hints of mauve in the pillow fabric. A marble-patterned wallpaper in the vestibule connects the primary bedroom to the bathroom, adding visual interest while maintaining a sophisticated flow. The project successfully combined the clients' desire for bold color with Kantor's expertise in creating chic, functional, and inviting interiors, resulting in a home that satisfied both parties. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #RyeNewYork #RenovationProject #ColorPalette #FamilyFriendlyDesign #CustomInteriors #LuxuryHomes

The article details a design project undertaken by Emma Beryl Kemper of Emma Beryl, a New York City design studio, to transform a two-bedroom Greenpoint duplex. The condo, originally created from a storefront in a vintage row house approximately a decade prior, was characterized by a cold, "cookie-cutter" aesthetic and lacked personalized touches for the young family residing there. The primary objective of the renovation was to infuse warmth and character into the space, making it feel more like a home, and to significantly enhance its functionality. One of the initial challenges involved the original kitchen, which featured only a single wall of cabinetry and an island. Beryl reconfigured this area, adding a wine bar with a glass cabinet to create a smoother transition between the functional kitchen space and the open living room, integrating it more effectively with the adjacent dining area. Beyond the kitchen, the project focused on maximizing storage throughout the duplex. This included reconfiguring the upstairs bathroom and adding a shower to the downstairs powder room, thereby converting it into a full bath. Custom built-ins were designed for an awkward downstairs room, which served the dual purpose of concealing plumbing pipes and creating a cozy nursery for the family. To achieve the desired warmth and character, the design incorporated vintage pieces, hand-painted tiles, and a selection of specific furnishings and materials. Manhattan-based Jan Renovations carried out all the new construction work, including custom millwork. In the open living room, a vintage rug from ABC Carpet, a grasscloth-covered media unit, and a new sofa from Restoration Hardware were combined with the clients' existing coffee table and chairs. The floor-to-ceiling storefront windows, which made the living room feel exposed, were addressed by adding a built-in window seat with integrated storage, creating a barrier and softening the space with curtains. A custom-built narrow bookcase in the corner was installed to hide wires. The dining area features a built-in banquette that conceals a steel rail for the downstairs staircase, also providing additional storage. Rejuvenation chairs accompany a wooden farmhouse-style table, complemented by a West Elm chandelier. A wooden desk from Restoration Hardware is positioned alongside the dining area. The kitchen was enlarged while maintaining its general location, featuring a contrast of white upper cabinets and open shelves with dark navy lower cabinetry. Carrara marble countertops and handmade tiles on the backsplash were significant upgrades. The master bedroom, being small, was designed to maximize openness, with custom floating nightstands and walls painted in a moody dark hue. Lutron shades were installed for privacy on the frosted storefront windows. The door to the upstairs bathroom was relocated to the front entry, necessitating a complete change in the room's footprint. The bathroom's color scheme aligns with the kitchen and master bedroom, incorporating patterned floor tiles from Tabarka Studio and custom-made wall tiles to match the blue in the flooring. A Restoration Hardware vanity and Cedar & Moss sconce completed the new bathroom. On the lower level, a custom-built angled closet provides linen and coat storage. The downstairs nursery features a bi-level window seat, a long wall of storage, and a floor-to-ceiling closet, all custom-built from lacquered wood to conceal mechanicals while allowing access. Distinctive wallpaper from Hygge & West and Dwell Studio baby furnishings enhance the space. A shower was added to the downstairs bathroom by utilizing space beneath the staircase, with a sink from Restoration Hardware and floor tile from Wayfair. The article also mentions the availability of before-and-after photos to illustrate the transformation. #InteriorDesign #Greenpoint #CondoRenovation #EmmaBeryl #CustomMillwork #BrooklynDesign #HomeTransformation

Julia Kramer, a former Bon Appétit editor, and her husband, Zach Kaplan, purchased a Craftsman home in Koreatown, Los Angeles, sight unseen during the early days of the pandemic. The decision was primarily influenced by a stained-glass peacock window in the dining room, which resonated with their family's experience visiting live peacocks at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This personal connection served as a significant sign, making the long-distance purchase feel destined. The couple, still residing in their two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper West Side, relied on an L.A.-based friend to view the property shortly after it was listed before making an offer. Following the purchase, and with only six weeks until their move, Kramer and Kaplan enlisted the help of Jamie Haller, an experienced Craftsman restorer and shoe designer. Haller's primary task was to modernize certain aspects of the home while also stripping away inappropriate additions, such as built-in speaker systems in the living room and kitchen, and numerous recessed lights. The goal was to preserve the original character and 'good stuff' of the Craftsman style. Kramer, who was largely put off by the ubiquity of newly remodeled kitchens featuring subway tile and open shelves during her house hunt, found the untouched, wood-heavy kitchen of this home particularly appealing. She expressed a preference for living without common countertop materials like marble and granite and appreciated the kitchen's separation from other rooms, allowing her personal space while cooking. Restoration efforts in the kitchen focused on subtle yet crucial updates. Haller oversaw the replacement of awning window chains with historically accurate hardware, a task that required considerable effort to source and install. She emphasized 'restraint' in the renovation process, focusing on making the space functional without sacrificing its original charm. A carpenter was brought in to repair the track of the old-fashioned bread box's garage door, ensuring its safe operation. While the kitchen lacks modern amenities like soft-close hinges, it retains a distinct 'soul' that appealed to the owners. One of the most challenging projects was the living room, where plaster walls had been covered in blue silk dupioni fabric and secured with an estimated 45,000 staples. Removing these staples was a laborious process, taking a week of manual effort. The focal point of the revitalized living room became Kramer’s vintage coffee table, a 1stdibs acquisition, which uniquely functions as a champagne and shrimp cocktail station, with its inverted center perfectly accommodating her ice bucket. Haller also had to source new lighting fixtures, as the previous owners took the originals. She turned to a salvage shop in Los Angeles known for preserving lights from Old Hollywood celebrity homes, finding an antique sconce for the guest bedroom’s salvaged sink that once belonged to Buster Keaton. Distinguishing this Craftsman from others, the home features dark, purple-hued mahogany wood rather than the typical red-orange Douglas fir. This unique wood tone harmonizes surprisingly well with subtle pink accents, such as the original fireplace grout and the new dining room walls, which were painted a soft dusty lavender-gray. Haller noted that the natural light interacting with these elements creates a warm glow. Due to the tight renovation schedule, restoring the painted wood trim was not feasible. Instead, it was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s dark navy shade, Railings, to achieve a cohesive look. In contrast to the home’s more vibrant areas, the main bedroom adopted a softer palette, transforming its previous purple walls into a serene cream. Kramer, typically drawn to maximalist designs, was swayed by Haller’s vision for a neutral, tranquil space. The bedroom renovation included creating two closets on either side of the bed by reallocating space from an adjacent children’s room, and adding a built-in reading nook with a tufted cushion, which serves as Kramer’s preferred work-from-home spot. For the children’s bedrooms, Kramer and Haller exercised a different form of restraint, opting for allover wallpapers with prints that strike a balance between kid-friendly and adult-approved aesthetics. Kramer expressed her desire to postpone 'ugly child spaces,' choosing whimsical crane designs by House of Hackney for her youngest son's room and a floral print by the same brand for the bathroom. She found that the numerous built-ins in the large bathroom helped to break up the busy floral pattern effectively. The various bird motifs throughout the home, from the initial peacock window to the crane wallpaper, have become a personal symbol of good fortune for Kramer. #HomeTour #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SightUnseenPurchase #HistoricPreservation #VintageDecor #FamilyHome

Brynn Jones, owner of Aralda Vintage, and her husband, Ness Saban, an indie film distributor, transformed their 1963 Robert Lee-designed home in Los Angeles. Jones, who has a lifelong affinity for 1960s and 1970s aesthetics, recognized the potential in the three-bedroom house despite some outdated decor. While Saban initially needed more convincing, Jones envisioned the possibilities, leading them to enlist Frances Merrill of Reath Design to revitalize the property. The home’s original dark wood paneling and brickwork, which date back to 1963, were considered essential elements to retain for their warmth and coziness. However, the kitchen and bathrooms, which had undergone poor remodels in the 1990s, required complete renovation. Jones's design vision was heavily influenced by her love for vintage fashion, drawing inspiration from the homes of style icons like Gloria Vanderbilt, Diana Vreeland, and Diane von Furstenberg, as well as '60s and '70s design magazines. Merrill embraced this approach, encouraging unusual color combinations and bold patterns. The initial phase of the renovation involved a simple yet impactful change: repainting the common areas, original built-ins, and doors from an institutional gray to a rich emerald green. This color choice effectively unified the existing paneling and brickwork. In the kitchen, a glossy chartreuse tiled backsplash was introduced, creating a vibrant contrast that surprisingly complemented the walnut and cream cabinets and dark wood. The primary bathroom became a canvas for more experimental color, featuring a checkerboard pattern of light purple, burgundy, and scarlet tiles, a peachy marble countertop with rose veins, and purple marble lining the shower. Jones acknowledged the intensity of this design, humorously noting a friend's comparison to a Stanley Kubrick film. Beyond color, patterns played a significant role in the home's transformation. The office features a botanical Hermès wallpaper, providing a psychedelic backdrop for a custom desk and wall unit. The main bedroom embraces a moodier ambiance due to a lack of natural light. Jones selected a kaleidoscopic House of Hackney design for the window drapes, bedding, and wallpaper, extending it to the ceiling. Despite the abundance of prints, Jones found the olive green and dark teal color palette to be calming, while Saban humorously described the room as being inside a wrapped, inverted present. The final phase of the renovation focused on the nursery for their son, Odin. Jones aimed to create a stimulating and charming space that avoided a stereotypical kid's room feel. This was achieved with a daybed reupholstered in dinosaur fabric, baby bedding made from mismatched Liberty London textiles, a dusty-blue sky mural by Londubh Studios painted across cabinetry and the ceiling, and a plush custom carpet designed to resemble a coral reef, laid over a purple linoleum floor. The nursery also features a custom clothing and storage nook, a former closet converted into built-in cabinetry, painted in dusty blue and pale lavender to provide a soothing atmosphere. This playful and imaginative design philosophy, first established in the nursery, extends throughout the entire home. #HomeTour #VintageInspired #InteriorDesign #LosAngelesHome #RetroDesign #BoldColors #PatternMixing #RenovationProject #ReathDesign

A 19th-century brownstone in a Historic District, featuring extensive mahogany woodwork, underwent a significant renovation to balance the preservation of its original details with the creation of a brighter, more contemporary living space. The project was led by architect Kim Letven of NV/design.architecture, with construction completed by Brooklyn-based Burda Construction over 14 months. The brownstone's layout was reconfigured, dedicating three floors to the homeowners and reserving the garden level for visiting relatives. The parlor floor now houses the living room and a new kitchen/dining area, the second floor contains the primary bedroom, a study, and a new bathroom, while the third floor accommodates two children’s rooms and two new bathrooms. A key aspect of the renovation involved extensive structural modifications, including blowing out the rear walls on both the parlor and garden levels. These openings were then fitted with large steel and glass installations to maximize natural light entry. Despite these modern interventions, great care was taken to restore the original architectural elements. The magnificent burled mahogany doors, carved moldings, and plasterwork throughout the house were meticulously retained and repaired, ensuring that the historical character of the home remained intact. Beyond aesthetics, the renovation encompassed a complete overhaul of the building's infrastructure. All mechanical systems, including plumbing and electrical, were replaced. Radiant heating elements were installed beneath new pale white oak floors, which feature a herringbone pattern on the parlor floor and a straight run elsewhere, contributing to both comfort and a clean, modern aesthetic. The interior decor was influenced by the clients' preference for the color blue, evident in the sectional sofa in the front room. Specific design choices highlight the blend of old and new. The kitchen features lower cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore’s Beau Green, complemented by white Caesarstone countertops and matte gold fixtures from Restoration Hardware. A subtle gap in the crown molding above the new window wall discreetly integrates an automatic roll-down window shade. The primary bedroom emphasizes minimalism, allowing the intact original moldings and window trim to stand out. The second-floor study/library is distinguished by blue-backed bookcases and a preserved plaster arch. Bathrooms throughout the house received modern updates. The primary bath employs a subtle color scheme with a custom wood vanity designed to resemble furniture, gold-toned hardware, and gray marble hex tiles. One of the top-floor baths features turquoise glass tiles in the shower and marble mosaics on the floor, while another uses Popham encaustic cement tiles from Ann Sacks. A new large skylight and a wood-veneer pendant from LZF illuminate the top floor landing, further enhancing the home's brightness. Even a boy's room was personalized with a wall covered in a rocket ship blueprint, adding a unique touch. The lower level, designated for guests, also received an expansive kitchen as part of its renovation. #ParkSlope #BrownstoneRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #BrooklynRealEstate #NVdesignArchitecture

In the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, independent creative director Nate Clark and attorney Allen Loeb embarked on a significant home renovation project for their growing family. They acquired a Craftsman-style house, which, despite its appealing location and size of 2,500 square feet, required extensive updates. The previous renovations had left the house with a disjointed aesthetic, characterized by ill-fitting finishes, mismatched casework, and an inefficient spatial layout, particularly on the second floor where a large primary bedroom and an oversized secondary bedroom with a loft created an imbalance. The owners desired a home that blended traditional charm with contemporary comfort and reflected their refined, yet eclectic, personal style, influenced by their background as sketch comedians. To achieve this vision, they enlisted architect and designer Tanya Paz of TAP Studio, who collaborated with Jeffrey Miller Architecture & Design. The primary objective of the renovation was to transform the gutted Craftsman into a welcoming haven, elegant yet comfortable for a family of four. Tanya Paz aimed to infuse traditional elements with modern amenities, creating a balance between the house's original Craftsman style and the family's eclectic taste. The design process was highly collaborative, involving extensive selection of materials, textures, and patterns to ensure a cohesive and purposeful aesthetic. Blues were incorporated throughout the space, along with handcrafted tiles and fixtures, to evoke a “beachy” feel. The design team sought to create a sense of organic evolution rather than a complete overhaul, meticulously selecting each element to form a seamless narrative that unified the entire home. On the first floor, the layout was reconfigured to include a dedicated family room, a formal dining room, and a multifunctional laundry room/mudroom with outdoor shower access, specifically designed for beach days. The kitchen floors were darkened, and custom trims were created for doors and windows using on-site materials, contributing to the desired blend of old and new. The fireplace received a facelift, and the pantry was refinished. A large millwork piece was custom-designed to wrap from the kitchen into the den, ingeniously concealing new structural elements, wiring, piping, and venting necessary for the second-floor addition and kitchen. This millwork also defined comfortable seating areas, including a custom sofa, for family gatherings. Upstairs, a minor addition allowed for the resizing of bedrooms and bathrooms, transforming a redundant space into a third bedroom for the couple's second child. A thoughtful “transition” space leading to the primary bedroom was created, featuring walnut millwork and fabric wallcovering. This area not only expanded closet storage but also served as a distinctive entry point to the primary bedroom and its accompanying bathroom, becoming a notable feature of the design. The primary bathroom itself was updated with brass fixtures and additional millwork. Outside, the detached garage's office space was converted into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), functioning as both an office and a pool room. The successful renovation resulted in a dream home that the owners deeply appreciate, feeling fortunate to have a space perfectly suited for raising their children. #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanStyle #EclecticDesign #FamilyHome #InteriorDesign #LosAngeles #HomeTour #ArchitecturalRenovation

This article details the extensive renovation of the historic Miles Costin House in downtown Wilmington by homeowners and interior designer Paula Warren and her husband, Chan Warren. Purchased in 2020, the nearly 7,000-square-foot, four-story Italianate-style home, built in 1855 by architect James F. Post, underwent a complete transformation across all 22 rooms. The Warrens moved from Washington, D.C., seeking a warmer climate and a vibrant town, but initially underestimated the scale of the project, especially the challenges of restoring a historic property. The renovation began with the basement, a laborious process that involved stripping everything down to the dirt, taking almost a year to complete. This space was converted into a cow-themed Airbnb named 'Steer on Dock'. Following the basement, the couple tackled the main house, where Paula's design philosophy of eclectic style came to life. She blended bold colors, fun patterns, contemporary fixtures, and unique vintage finds to modernize the once-dated dwelling while honoring its historical grandeur. Key design choices include painting the dining room and parlor in Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore, while the kitchen features White Dove walls and Chantilly Lace cabinets and trim. Paula, known for her frugal and secondhand shopping approach, sourced many pieces from local estate sales, Facebook Marketplace, and Paper Wood Vintage, valuing the character and quality of older items. Modern fixtures were acquired from Capitol Lighting, Shades of Light, and Anthropologie. The kitchen was significantly updated with leathered Taj Mahal quartzite counters by Marmolite Granite & Marble, new pulls, and redesigned layout to incorporate a functional island. Architectural details of the Miles Costin House, such as the grand center staircase spanning three floors, detailed crown molding, thick paned windows, and Greek Revival fireplaces, were preserved. The house is also notable for having one of Wilmington's few mansard roofs and a unique side piazza with floor-length walkout windows, along with distinctive 'come-and-go' front porch stairs. These historical elements were integrated with contemporary design choices, such as curvilinear light fixtures, to create a harmonious blend of old and new. Further renovations included Chan’s second-floor office, which was wallpapered in Phillip Jeffries grasscloth (Manila Hemp in navy). The five bathrooms were updated with creative tile layouts, wall-mounted faucets, and modern fixtures, with four of them being completely gutted. The primary bathroom, formerly a small bedroom, was transformed into a luxurious suite with a fireplace, cappuccino station, and flat-screen TV, featuring Tesoro Bianco marble vanity tops. The primary bedroom boasts a patterned Scalamandre Raphael wallpaper by Sandberg. Children's rooms and guest rooms on the third floor also received fresh paint, such as Cedar Path and Aspen Skies by Benjamin Moore. Exterior restorations included the front porch, side veranda, back deck, and a roof replacement. After two years, the Warrens, along with their French bulldog Atlas, now enjoy their uniquely restored home and its vibrant downtown Wilmington location. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #EclecticStyle #WilmingtonNC #HomeDecor #MilesCostinHouse #DIYRenovation

The article details the renovation of a vintage three-story row house in Prospect Lefferts Gardens (PLG), led by Brooklyn-based architectural practice Studio Officina. The project was initiated by new homeowners who expressed a strong preference for vibrant colors in their interior design, a departure from currently popular monochromatic schemes. However, the renovation faced significant initial challenges, as extensive structural issues, including considerable termite damage and unresolved leaks, were discovered after demolition began. These issues necessitated the replacement of numerous joists on each floor, delaying the implementation of the homeowners' colorful vision. Once the structural repairs were completed, Studio Officina proceeded with the comprehensive renovation of the parlor level and the addition of a new bathroom on the top floor. The original layout of the 50-foot-long structure, which had been a two-family residence, featured four rooms per floor with two internal rooms and a meandering corridor, creating a somewhat inefficient and disjointed feel. The architectural team retained but modified the long hallway on the parlor floor, strategically narrowing the middle rooms to integrate a coat closet, a new powder room, and pantry storage. This adjustment aimed to enhance functionality and flow within the space. The core of the aesthetic design revolved around the bold use of paint and tile. The homeowners’ desire for color was met with unabashedly bold primary hues, meticulously balanced with substantial amounts of white to prevent the spaces from feeling overwhelming. The architect emphasized that at eye level, even in the hallway, white surfaces largely dominate the visual field, providing a clean contrast to the vibrant accents. A notable design element is the use of patterned tiles from the Margherita range by Mutina, designed by Natalie du Pasquier, a co-founder of the 1980s design collective Memphis, available through Stone Source. These tiles are featured prominently throughout the project. Specific design choices highlight the colorful theme. The staircase structure was painted a vivid blue, tempered by white wainscoting. The front parlor, serving as the living room, features walls painted in Farrow & Ball’s Stirabout, a neutral earthy tone, complementing a brown velvet sofa from Sarah Ellison, which was one of the few new furniture purchases. The kitchen, a central focus, was designed around the clients' specific request for a "pink kitchen" from "Day One." This vision materialized with a pink Samsung Bespoke refrigerator and custom cabinetry by Jon Besch. A backsplash of zellige tile from Zia Tile and natural wood elements, including open cubbies and a cabinet, were incorporated to provide textural variation and prevent the pink from dominating the space. Countertops are stone slabs from Geraci Stone Gallery, and pendant lights above the kitchen island were crafted by one of the homeowners, a ceramic artist. The dining area, adjacent to the kitchen, was created by removing a load-bearing wall to establish a wider, more open space. A Noguchi Akari light fixture illuminates the dining table. The newly added powder room and upstairs bathroom also showcase the project’s commitment to distinctive tile work. The powder room features graphic wall and floor tiles from Mutina’s Margherita line, while the upstairs bath includes a vanity from Alape and Pixel tile from Italian supplier 41zero42. Studio Officina also utilized an existing light well, enlarging it to accommodate a new skylight, enhancing natural light in the new bathroom. The article concludes by noting that until all rooms are renovated, the homeowners' children are given artistic freedom on the walls, underscoring the family-centric and personalized approach to the home’s ongoing evolution. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorfulInteriors #ProspectLeffertsGardens #StudioOfficina #BrooklynRealEstate #TileDesign #StructuralRepair #CustomCabinetry

A comprehensive renovation project was undertaken for a landmarked five-story brownstone in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, prompted by the structural deterioration of its rear wall. The initial repair evolved into a complete top-to-bottom transformation, encompassing significant architectural and interior design changes. The project involved the installation of a new three-story wood and glass window system on the rear facade, enhancing natural light and views. The formerly low-ceilinged attic space was converted into a skylit home office, complete with a kitchenette and access to a newly created roof terrace. The restoration work paid careful attention to preserving historical elements, including the meticulous repair and reinstallation of original lacy plasterwork and other intricate historic details throughout the house. Concurrently, the homeowner, an interior designer, curated an entirely new color palette and furnishings scheme, blending modern aesthetics with the home's 19th-century character. Built in 1850 in the Anglo-Italianate style, the house is part of a unique architectural complex where three row houses are designed to appear as a single, larger mansion. This architectural type, characterized by its approximately 16-foot width and absence of a high stoop, is a notable, albeit rare, feature of the neighborhood. The English basement primarily serves for storage, with utilities entering at this level. The first floor, historically the staff and kitchen area, was reconfigured to improve light, airflow, and sightlines. The front room was preserved as a cozy sitting area with an arched window, while the kitchen and dining area were relocated to the middle and rear, offering expansive views of the backyard. The elegant second floor, known as the _piano nobile_, features a grand staircase leading to a central hall that separates a formal living room at the front from a more casual family room at the rear. The decorative plaster crown moldings on this level were restored, and the staircase was reinforced and given new treads. The third and fourth floors are dedicated to bedrooms, with a primary suite on the third floor and children's rooms on the fourth. The primary suite's layout was reconfigured so that it is entered from a generous hallway in the center of the house, rather than at one end, which is typical for row houses. A fitted closet connects the bedroom and bathroom, with the two-level bathroom design dictated by plumbing considerations. Children's rooms and bathrooms on the fourth floor were designed with vibrant patterns and colors. In the former attic space, The Brooklyn Studio created a functional penthouse study and a central kitchenette/bar area that opens onto an outdoor deck with a brick fireplace. An oval glass insert in the kitchenette floor allows natural light from the new skylight and sliding glass doors to extend to the floor below. The kitchen features a custom brass stove hood, a marble backsplash with prominent veining, and hand-blown glass knobs by Danish artist Nina Norgaard on the stained oak millwork. The design prioritized an airy feel by minimizing upper cabinetry. Throughout the renovation, existing floor structures were maintained where possible, with new parquet veneer flooring laid over original surfaces in some areas to preserve the underlying structure. #CobbleHill #BrownstoneRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #TheBrooklynStudio #HomeOffice #Kitchenette #RoofTerrace #StructuralRenovation

This article highlights the extensive renovation of a historic 1914 home located in Nashville's Waverly neighborhood, undertaken by Sara Ray Interior Design and Allard Ward Architects. The homeowners, enthusiasts of mid-century furnishings, historic architecture, and houseplants, aimed to create a residence that seamlessly blends its historical integrity with contemporary design elements. The 3,520-square-foot home, featuring three bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms, underwent a comprehensive overhaul that included structural repairs, and updates to electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and modern functionality. The renovation involved gutting the kitchen and all bathrooms, replacing all surfaces such as flooring, tile, and cabinetry, and installing new light and plumbing fixtures. A significant two-story addition was constructed at the rear of the house, which now accommodates a primary bathroom upstairs and a screened-in porch, mudroom, and family room on the main level. One of the key structural changes was the removal of a wall on the main floor to create an open and flowing living and dining area, catering to a more contemporary lifestyle while preserving the home's original character. Externally, the home received a fresh coat of paint and an added outdoor living space complete with a fire pit, enhancing its curb appeal and providing additional areas for relaxation and entertainment. The architectural style of the home, shingle-style reminiscent of the Craftsman movement, aligns with the City Beautiful Movement that shaped the Historic Waverly neighborhood with its curved streets and lush gardens. This historical context was carefully considered during the design process. A notable discovery during the renovation was a previously hidden fireplace in the family room, which was uncovered and transformed into a striking focal point. The homeowners' desire to maintain original features was also evident in the kitchen, where exposed brick from an original fireplace was preserved and highlighted with custom brass shelving. The kitchen was completely reimagined with custom green cabinetry, a custom brass-clad range hood, and a custom butcher block island, blending historical elements with modern craftsmanship. The home's layout was reconfigured to optimize flow while respecting its historical integrity. The entry remained intact, with formal living and dining rooms on either side, though the dining room is now utilized as an office. The family room and a new dining area were opened up to create a more modern, open-concept space. The kitchen remained in its original location but was extended as part of the new addition. The main level also includes a guest bedroom, guest bathroom, powder room, and mudroom. Upstairs, there is another guest bedroom and bath, a laundry room, and the primary suite, with the primary bathroom being part of the new addition. The primary bathroom features antique-inspired tile flooring and a refinished clawfoot tub, serving as a central design element. The two-year renovation, completed in Fall 2023, successfully created a warm, inviting sanctuary that reflects the homeowners' personalities and passions, achieving a perfect fusion of past and present. #HistoricHome #NashvilleRealEstate #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorfulAccents #SaraRayInteriorDesign #CraftsmanStyle #MidCenturyModern

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

This article details the transformation of a 1950s ranch home in Nashville, owned by painter Elizabeth Stern, into a vibrant and personalized living space. The renovation, led by local architecture firm Pfeffer Torode with lead architect Erin Cypress and interior designer Liz Bonesio, focused on enhancing natural light and integrating a distinctive color palette inspired by the homeowner's artistic vision. Initially, the ranch lacked sufficient light and color, presenting a blank canvas for the design team. A primary objective was to open up the internal structure to allow more natural light to penetrate. Cypress achieved this by designing a series of cased openings that connect the private sleeping quarters with the public entertaining areas. These public spaces were conceived to be free-flowing, suitable for parties, pool, and mah-jongg. A significant addition was a sunroom extension off the kitchen, living, and dining rooms, designed with numerous windows and high ceilings to create a seamless connection with the garden and patio, making the outdoors feel like an integral part of the interior. Stern also expressed a preference for minimal recessed lighting. Bonesio addressed this by sourcing various flush-mount fixtures throughout the house, ensuring an even distribution of light without relying heavily on overhead recessed lights, except for a few essential ones in the kitchen. The color scheme played a crucial role in reflecting Stern's artistic sensibility. A recurring earthy, pink-toned terra-cotta, found in the plaster walls of the dining room and reclaimed French _parefeuille_ floors of the sunroom, became a central theme. This warm hue was harmoniously paired with blues, primarily Farrow & Ball Skylight, a pale blue-gray, which served to highlight the warmth of the terra-cotta tones. This deliberate choice of colors created a harmonious and personal atmosphere, aligning with Stern's artistic preferences. The renovation extended to various rooms, each featuring carefully selected details and materials. The living room showcases built-ins painted in a combination of mineral paint and fine paints, flanking an original marble mantel. Custom elements like a Remains Lighting Company flush mount, a Materia's Forchette 24 Chandelier, custom Lee Jofa fabric curtains, and an Erden custom rug contribute to its unique character. The kitchen features an oak island designed without plumbing, along with cabinets painted in Domingue Architectural Finishes' Chapel and Cristallo Azul quartzite countertops. Barber Wilsons & Co. faucets and Balsamo pendants complete the look. The butler's pantry, converted from a storage room, includes a deep Kohler sink for flower arranging, complemented by pendants from Remains Lighting Company and London Silk quartzite countertops. Its cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore Sandblast and Sherwin-Williams Blustery Sky, with Zak + Fox wallpaper backing Stern’s ceramic collection. The sunroom, referred to as the “catbird seat,” is an idyllic dining area with a Soane pendant, Zak + Fox fabric shades with Bruder trim, and a custom banquette. The dining room, intended for parties, features paneling painted in Farrow & Ball Skylight, allowing for art salon-style displays, and includes a dining table that doubles as a pool table, alongside a piano. The mudroom incorporates a vintage Facebook Marketplace sink with de-plated Chicago Faucets, and walls painted in Benjamin Moore's Seapearl, Pilgrim Haze, and Blue Note, with Currey & Company pendants. The primary bedroom features a Dennis Miller bed upholstered in Rose Tarlow fabric, a Brett Design nightstand, a Soane sconce, and Libeco Home bedding. The guest room uses Peter Fasano wallpaper to inspire a natural palette, with custom beds lacquered in Fine Paints of Europe GC603, Made Goods nightstands, and custom Osborne & Little fabric coverlets. Bathrooms are equally detailed; the primary bathroom includes a gilded papier-mâché Fisher Weisman chandelier, a Victoria + Albert bathtub with Barber Wilsons & Co. tub filler, custom Etamine fabric café curtains, and an Eliko Rugs rug. The guest bathroom, a jack-and-jill style, features a Lacava trough sink, Farrow & Ball De Nimes paint, Tabarka Studio wall tile, a Remains Lighting Company ceiling light, and a Circa Lighting sconce. Lastly, a Hartley Botanic Victorian plant house serves as a greenhouse and potting shed for garden herbs, reflecting Stern's personal touch throughout the entire property. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NashvilleHomes #ColorPalette #SunroomDesign #KitchenDesign #ArtistHome #HistoricRanch #PfefferTorode