Cozy Avondale Estates cottage gets industrial makeover

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

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 highlights the transformation of a 204-square-meter, three-level loft located in Toronto's Dovercourt Park neighborhood. Originally part of a felt factory converted into residential units in 1981, this loft was one of the first legal loft conversions in Toronto, exemplifying a true California-style layout with sleeping quarters on the main level and living spaces upstairs. The property features four-meter-high original beam ceilings, multiple skylights, a private garden, and even a classic projector screen. The owner, filmmaker and creative director Lisa Mann, purchased the loft from a friend, having admired it for years. She decided to rent it out, seeking tenants who would appreciate its unique design and history, including two-tone wooden bookcases designed by Arriz Hassam in the late 1990s. Elizabeth Dyer, an artist and owner of the Summerhill boutique "Advice from a Caterpillar," along with her partner Peter Smith, a creative entrepreneur, were chosen as tenants due to their appreciation for the space. Dyer spearheaded a renovation to create a relaxed, coastal-style decor, focusing on a light and airy atmosphere. This involved painting over the previous dramatic brick-red and black accent walls in the entryway, living room, and bedroom with multiple coats of Cloud White. Heavy black curtains in the bedroom were replaced with diaphanous sheers to further enhance the coastal theme and allow more natural light to permeate the space. The original wood-fronted fireplace in the living room was covered with buff-colored Tufbak, an adhesive-backed paper often used in window displays, to further lighten the aesthetic. Peter Smith contributed to the dining area by constructing a slim table from pickled plywood, which complements the yellow tones of the existing bookcases. The furniture, including comfortable couches, camp-style chairs, and ottomans, many sourced from Dyer's shop, were chosen for their pale and unfussy appearance. The third-floor studio, previously featuring a chalkboard wall, was also painted white across its walls, ceiling, window mouldings, and floor. Smith built a narrow desk for this space, applying the same pickling technique used for the dining table. This comprehensive refresh resulted in an uncluttered space, suffused with natural light, creating an inspiring environment for Dyer's art studio, even on overcast days. The renovation successfully transitioned the industrial loft into a breezy, coastal-inspired abode while respecting its historical elements. #Renovations #DesignIdeas #InteriorDesign #CondosAndLofts #LoftConversion #CoastalStyle #IndustrialToResidential #TorontoDesign

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

Interior stylist Nita Hauhia and her partner Valtteri Vartiainen embarked on an ambitious project to convert a former ski factory in Finland into a chic family loft. This endeavor followed immediately after an extensive renovation of their previous home, an old laundry in Porvoo. The couple, driven by Nita's childhood dream of living in an old factory, purchased the 1950s building in January 2016 and completed the extensive renovations by October 2016. The 307-square-meter factory had been previously converted for residential use in 2008, but this earlier renovation had stripped the building of its historical character, transforming it into a modern, white stone villa that Nita found unappealing. Furthermore, the property suffered from issues such as mould and ground frost due to a lack of consideration for Finland's extreme climate, necessitating a complete overhaul to restore its original factory aesthetic and ensure durability. With the assistance of Nita's grandfather, a construction foreman, and a close friend specializing in building and interior design, the couple commenced demolition and reconstruction. Modern plasterboard walls and limestone floors from the previous renovation were removed, and the original ceilings and pillars were sandblasted to expose their raw, industrial texture. Nita envisioned a functional layout with high ceilings, ample space for entertaining, and numerous windows to maximize natural light. Hard-wearing materials were selected, including treated concrete floors, which allowed their nine-year-old son, Helmer, to freely cycle and skateboard indoors, and Carrara-marble benchtops in the spacious kitchen. The kitchen features black doors and knobs installed on an IKEA framework, contributing to a timeless industrial aesthetic. The dining area continues this theme with concrete ceilings and floors, complemented by a large table built from 3.5-meter floorboards and vintage flea-market chairs. A unique element of the design is the dressing room upstairs, inspired by a shop and restaurant in Estonia. It boasts a handmade brick wall and an iron-framed window overlooking the living room, designed to showcase Nita's shoe and clothing collection. Personal touches are evident throughout the home, such as a 1950s Norton motorbike in the living room, a family heirloom reflecting their passion for racing, and a blue floral porcelain sink in the bathroom, inspired by a hotel Nita admired in Stockholm. Throughout the loft, designer furniture pieces are juxtaposed with vintage rugs, and collected books, magazines, and artworks add warmth and personality to the industrial backdrop. A birch plywood sauna, a quintessential Finnish feature, was also incorporated. Despite initial challenges, such as a non-functioning heating system on their first night, the couple successfully transformed the factory into a home that uniquely reflects their passions and lifestyle. Future plans include adding a metal-framed window between the hallway and garage to view their classic cars, an ambition they regret not completing during the initial renovation phase. #LoftConversion #IndustrialStyle #HomeRenovation #FinlandHome #InteriorDesign #SkiFactoryConversion #FamilyHome #HistoricBuilding

The farmhouse aesthetic, a leading interior design trend popularized in the 2010s by HGTV's "Fixer Upper" and stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, is evolving. While the traditional farmhouse look remains favored, there's a growing inclination towards a modern farmhouse style. This updated approach often involves integrating classic farmhouse details with sleek, industrial design elements, particularly in the kitchen. One impactful way to achieve this industrial farmhouse aesthetic is through the strategic incorporation of mixed metals, a concept previously considered unconventional in home decor. HGTV star Nate Berkus advocates for mixing metals, emphasizing the importance of strong contrast rather than using metals with similar tones, such as gold and brass. He suggests pairing warm metals like gold and brass with cool metals like silver and chrome to create rich, textured visuals. A simple starting point for this update is swapping out existing kitchen hardware. Further modernizing a farmhouse kitchen can involve upgrading appliances to stainless steel, including stainless steel chimney hoods, which are a popular choice for contemporary styles. For those who prefer black or white appliances, combining matte finishes with a sleek stainless steel backsplash offers an alternative. Flooring also plays a significant role in this transformation; instead of light hardwood, industrial-chic concrete or tile floors can introduce a cool contrast against the kitchen's warmer wood elements. The essence of achieving a modern farmhouse style lies in the deliberate blending of old and new. This can be exemplified by hanging industrial lighting, such as industrial pendant lights, over a reclaimed wood island, or pairing a classic farmhouse sink with a contemporary chrome faucet. The key is to maintain a careful balance between these elements. Certain traditional farmhouse features will persist in this modern evolution. Wood accents, including exposed beams, reclaimed wood countertops, open shelving, beadboard paneling, and warm decorative pieces like aesthetic cutting boards and butcher blocks, will continue to be crucial. Farmhouse-inspired cabinetry, painted in soft, muted tones such as cream, light gray, slate blue, or sage green, will also remain. However, the distinction between traditional and modern farmhouse aesthetics is found in the contrast. Contemporary farmhouse kitchens are moving beyond lightly stained or whitewashed woods to incorporate richer, darker-stained woods. Industrial influences, such as metal accents and modern fixtures, are integrated to introduce depth and sophistication. This integration ensures that the kitchen retains its rustic and welcoming charm while acquiring a sleek, updated edge, offering a refreshed take on a beloved design style. #FarmhouseKitchen #IndustrialDesign #ModernFarmhouse #InteriorDesignTrends #KitchenRemodel #MixedMetals #HomeImprovement #DesignHacks

John Marsala and Becka Citron, the creative and business partners behind Modern Anthology, have shifted their focus to interior design services after closing their physical retail stores in Dumbo and Cobble Hill. This move builds on their original business model, as interior design was their primary focus before venturing into retail. Their signature industrial chic aesthetic, previously evident in their stores, is now a hallmark of their interior design projects, such as the Dumbo loft featured in this article. The project involved furnishing a 2,400-square-foot loft for a young couple with a small child. The loft, located in a converted industrial building, retained original features like exposed brick and wooden columns. The designers were tasked with creating a functional and stylish living space, moving away from the clients' initial plans for fully custom-made furnishings. A key structural change was the addition of a dividing wall to create a dedicated den/TV area, separating it from the main living space. The primary focus, however, was on sourcing new furnishings, predominantly from retail outlets. The design choices were influenced by the homeowners' existing art collection, which included quirky pieces such as a framed print humorously stating ‘I was young and needed the money’ and a striking, large-scale portrait. These artworks signaled to Citron that the clients were open to bold design elements and did not wish for an overly conventional approach. The designers integrated these artistic cues into a cohesive design that blended industrial elements with comfort and personality. Key furniture selections included a Chesterfield-style sofa and egg-shaped mid-century chairs from Restoration Hardware, demonstrating a blend of classic and modern aesthetics. A vintage wing chair was given a distinctive update with plastic-coated fabric imprinted with street signs on the back and a tailored pin stripe on the front. An over-dyed vintage rug from Nomadic Trading Company added texture and color, while a Serge Mouille wall-mounted sconce provided sophisticated lighting. For the informal breakfast area, blue vintage chairs paired with a Saarinen-style pedestal table created a casual yet elegant spot. The dining area features a live-edge table complemented by wire chairs reminiscent of Eames designs from Modernica. A long hallway leading to the bedrooms was transformed into a gallery space, displaying framed photos and art unified by simple wood and metal frames. The primary bedroom maintained a warm ambiance with natural brick, furnished with a bed by Brooklyn-based Uhuru Design, a dresser by L.A.-based designer Thomas Bina, and a chandelier from Apparatus, further emphasizing the blend of industrial roots with contemporary design. This project exemplifies Modern Anthology's ability to create warm, functional, and industrially chic interiors using a mix of sourced retail pieces and thoughtful design interventions. #DumboLoft #InteriorDesign #ModernAnthology #IndustrialChic #HomeRenovation #BrooklynDesign #FurnitureSourcing #ResidentialDesign

Bev Adam and Craig Shearn, residents of an 1800s double-fronted miner's cottage in Melbourne's inner north, undertook a significant renovation of their home with the help of designer David Flack of Flack Studio. The exterior of the cottage was painted in a dramatic, heritage 'Oxblood' by Porter’s Paints, a choice that garnered attention and conversation from neighbors, suggesting a potential trendsetting move. The homeowners, both involved in the property industry, sought a professional's expertise for their 'last and biggest hurrah' in renovating, aiming to create a space tailored solely for their enjoyment, rather than focusing on resale value. The renovation involved stripping the residence back to its bare bones and implementing a new scheme and footprint. The brief included establishing a new master wing with a wet area and walk-in wardrobe, a guest bedroom, a den, a powder room, and a spacious new extension. This redesign transformed four period bedrooms into two, prioritizing personal comfort and luxury over the original layout. The interior design showcases a blend of vintage and contemporary elements with a vibrant mix of hues and textures. A key feature of the updated home is the oversized open-plan kitchen, centered around a custom island bench with a honed white Arabescato stone top, mild black steel legs, and brass feet. An adjoining bar, backed by glossy green stone, complements the kitchen. David Flack also designed a cozy nook with a custom leather banquette, a Cassina armchair, a vintage Bonacina side table, and a cowhide, which he describes as a 'crazy little maximalist corner' filled with objects and art. This area, along with the bar, has become a popular spot for guests, fulfilling the homeowners' desire for a space that encourages regular entertaining. The furniture selection combines pieces accumulated by the couple over the years with newly sourced items, including vintage Italian, Danish, and contemporary Australian pieces. These are thoughtfully arranged, particularly under the cathedral ceiling at the rear of the house, overlooking a large fireplace and plunge pool. The main bedroom features walls painted in Porter’s Paints ‘Donkey Grey’ and copper linen curtains. Dulux’s ‘Royal Battle’, a rich Prussian blue, is used in the walk-in wardrobe and to accent the hand-glazed Spanish shower tiles in the ensuite, which David discovered locally. Throughout the renovation, Flack Studio emphasized a methodology of 'testing and sculpting on site' to capture nuances and adapt designs, aiming for a project executed with integrity. The use of varied materials such as American oak timber veneer, polished plaster, steel frames, and Elba stone tiles further contributes to the home's unique character. The project successfully transformed an historic miner's cottage into a vibrant, personalized, and luxurious home that reflects the homeowners' desire for comfort, color, and a distinctive aesthetic. #FlackStudio #MelbourneCottage #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColourfulHome #VintageContemporaryMix #CustomDesign #LuxuryHome

Designer Rebecca Philipson undertook a significant remodel of a 1990s-built, 5,300-square-foot home in Aurora, Ohio, focusing on transforming the kitchen, great room, and lounge into more open and inviting spaces. The homeowners sought to infuse warmth and an open concept into their residence, a vision Philipson brought to life through a blend of traditional and rustic elements, with distinct French Country influences. Central to the design is the incorporation of Amish hand-hewn ceiling beams and elaborate stonework, which serve as prominent features, particularly in the lounge. This area, designed for relaxation and entertaining, includes a wet bar, a built-in refrigerator, and custom alder cabinetry. The adjacent sunroom houses a pool table, creating a seamless flow for social gatherings and post-dinner interactions. The overall layout was reimagined to foster a sense of togetherness, allowing family and guests to interact comfortably across the connected rooms. Philipson achieved this open concept by strategically removing the wall between the great room and kitchen, then linking the kitchen to the lounge. Archways were introduced to formalize these open transitions. The kitchen underwent the most substantial transformation. Previously walled off, it featured an angled peninsula, an irregularly shaped island, and low-hanging soffits. Philipson replaced these with faux beams to maintain the rustic aesthetic and installed a central island with seating for three. The homeowners' desire for warmth and intricate details was met through design elements such as decorative island legs. Attention to detail extends throughout the kitchen, with intricate touches found in the baseboards, legs, valances, and along the bottom of the island cabinetry. The refrigerator was artfully concealed with cabinet panels and mirrored glass, designed to resemble an armoire rather than an appliance, fulfilling the client's wish for cabinetry that emulated furniture. A built-in coffee maker contributed to a decluttered countertop space. The great room further showcases the sophisticated stonework, with cream-colored stone extending from floor to ceiling around the fireplace. This central feature is flanked by built-in cabinets that mirror the design of the kitchen's concealed refrigerator. Oversized iron hardware on the cabinetry adds a dramatic flair, complementing the multi-tiered iron chandelier, which serves as a focal point. Recessed lighting supplements the chandelier, with all lighting choices made to enhance the room's warm ambiance. The remodel successfully integrated rustic charm with French Country elegance, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment across the main living areas. #HomeRemodel #AuroraHome #FrenchCountryStyle #RusticDesign #KitchenRenovation #GreatRoomDesign #LoungeArea #InteriorDesign #OpenConcept

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

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

This article highlights the transformation of a Lake Claire duplex in Atlanta, a rare intown home nestled within a wooded ravine. The property, initially purchased by young film industry professionals as a second home, presented designer Jessica Davis with the challenge of revitalizing a unique midcentury-meets-industrial structure. The duplex was originally divided into two separate units with no internal connection and featured awkward open-concept layouts that blurred the lines between living and dining areas, along with dated bathrooms. Jessica Davis, discovered by the homeowners on Instagram, was tasked with infusing the home with her signature vibrant style while optimizing its layout for both livability and renter-friendliness. A key intervention was the installation of a new interior spiral staircase, which connected the upper and lower levels, allowing the clients to utilize the property as a single cohesive residence or to rent out the lower unit independently. This dual-purpose design was critical to meeting the clients' needs. On the upper level, which houses the primary bedroom, a daughter’s bedroom, and an open-concept living space, Davis implemented strategic design choices to define areas without obstructing the natural views. A stylish banquette was introduced to create a clear separation between the sofa and kitchen areas, ensuring a more functional and aesthetically pleasing flow. Low-profile furniture and retractable window shades were deliberately chosen to maintain an unobstructed vista of the surrounding woods. Although the kitchen and bathrooms had functional layouts and acceptable tile work, Davis performed light renovations, focusing on impactful yet economical swaps such as new hardware and updated base cabinets to refresh these spaces. The lower level was conceived as a self-contained apartment, catering to its potential as a rental unit or an in-law suite. Davis embraced the existing industrial aesthetic of this section. The kitchenette features happy blue cabinetry complemented by a utilitarian stainless-steel backsplash and a compact dining table that can also serve as an island. To maximize storage and better delineate spaces, the kitchen cabinets were extended along the wall behind the sofa, with a color variation that made them function as a credenza, effectively defining the living area. The office on this level was designed to be versatile, doubling as a guest room. Further design details across the home include a vibrant family room where a low-slung teal sofa and rainbow rug draw the eye while preserving the view of the ravine. A secondary seating area in the family room features rattan lounge chairs that swivel, offering flexibility to enjoy the view or engage with the main living space. The sunroom off the main living area, furnished with Couture Jardin sofas and a lime green-and-blue rug, creates a serene space immersed in nature. The daughter’s bedroom was transformed into a playful, treehouse-like environment with a Blu Dot desk and chair, a sculptural pendant, and a trundle bed, designed to adapt as she grows. In the primary bedroom, walls and ceiling were painted a peaceful blue to enhance the sense of space, and a built-in headboard serves as both storage and a focal point, accented by a wood knot sculpture. The primary bath received a refresh with a new floating vanity, knotted pulls, and bubble sconces, while the daughter’s bath was updated with new drawers, coral hardware, and a modern sconce. The downstairs guest bath creatively repurposed the old powder room sink, custom-fitted into a vanity with half-moon pulls and red hairpin legs, alongside a petite red sconce, giving it a contemporary vintage appeal. The overarching design philosophy centered on enhancing existing elements with colorful, modern touches to create a vibrant home that harmoniously integrates with its unique natural setting. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LakeClaire #DuplexRenovation #MidcenturyModern #IndustrialStyle #JessicaDavis #AtlantaHomes #ColorfulInteriors

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller

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