A Creative Director Turned Wood From His Demo Into the Kitchen Cabinets

Arne Jensen, an Emmy Award-winning art director from WBZ-TV, and his wife transitioned from a multi-story loft in Lowell to a 1,900-square-foot midcentury-style home in Walpole, specifically chosen for its architectural bones and convenient location. While Jensen's professional background was in set design, where aesthetics often supersede comfort, he applied his predilection for midcentury modern aesthetics to the redesign of his family's new home. This personal project ultimately led him to launch his own interior design and graphics firm. The exterior of the home was subtly updated to enhance its curb appeal and integrate it with the natural surroundings. Jensen painted the front door a spicy red and replaced the walkway with crisply cut granite pavers. He cultivated the front garden with a Japanese maple, azaleas, and a dwarf white pine, adding lush personality. The house features large, floor-to-ceiling glass expanses that foster an indoor-outdoor connection, a key attraction for the couple. To further emphasize this connection and integrate the interior with the exterior, Jensen stained the interior window frames dark brown, making them recede visually and allowing the eye to focus on the outside scenery. The interior walls, previously covered in dated, sharp stucco, were grounded, sanded, and repainted. The upper section of the highest wall, which separates the public spaces from the bedrooms, was painted a comforting mochaccino shade. This darker color choice was strategic, helping to visually knit the wood ceiling to the walls and reduce the vastness of the room, making it feel more intimate. The living space features a revitalized fireplace, which was originally clad in the same material as the home's front facade but deemed unsightly. Jensen transformed it by applying a Portola Paints’ lime wash to create a nuanced patina on the now-smooth stucco surface. He removed the raised hearth, installing a blackened steel plate flush with the floor, and incorporated a Stûv insert with a blackened steel surround, known for its heating efficiency. A pine mantel was added to link the fireplace with the existing wood ceiling, resulting in a streamlined yet cozy focal point. The fireplace is centered by a coffee table, flanked by leather sofas that exude a relaxed, midcentury sensibility. A reading nook was created in the remaining space, furnished with Barcelona-style chairs and adorned with black and white photography, along with Jensen's Emmy statuettes. The kitchen and dining areas underwent significant renovation to achieve a more open floor plan. Jensen removed the wall between the dining room and kitchen, replacing it with a breakfast bar. Upper cabinetry was eliminated in favor of maple base cabinets with deep drawers, valued for their practicality. Black granite countertops provide a grounding contrast to the light wood. The kitchen's focal point is a backsplash made of skinny, stacked olive tiles from Heath Ceramics, which Jensen chose due to his Bay Area roots. The varied green tones of these tiles harmonize with the outdoor view, drawing attention outwards. The deck, spanning the length of the house, was refurbished to include an outdoor kitchen with a gas grill and smoker, a Solo pellet stove for warmth, and a pergola with a louvered top for al fresco dining. Grapevines, replanted from an existing arbor, now trail over modern rails. Motivated by the desire for soothing sounds, Jensen also created a pond with lily pads and frogs. Additional outdoor features include an existing bocce court, which effectively separates the house from the lawn, and a vegetable enclosure built by Jensen, where he tends to raised beds of various produce. This multiyear renovation project, largely executed by Jensen himself, marked a significant career shift, leading him from television production to establishing Arne Jensen Design, an interior design and graphics firm, reflecting his enjoyment of the transformative process. #HomeRenovation #MidcenturyModern #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #ArneJensenDesign #WalpoleHome #IndoorOutdoorLiving

The Edinburgh gallery Bard presents a new exhibition titled 'Bardware,' which aims to reframe the perception of craft from an exclusive, high-art domain to an accessible, everyday practice. Founded by Hugo Macdonald and James Stevens, Bard seeks to bridge the gap between craft as a specialized hobby and as luxury objects, instead focusing on items designed for daily use and sensory engagement within the home. The inspiration for 'Bardware' stems from the founders' appreciation for traditional hardware stores, which they view as symbols of optimism and the human capacity to make, fix, build, and repair. The exhibition features works from 20 Scottish craftspeople, designers, and artists, all commissioned to create objects that enhance daily domestic life. The brief encouraged the artists to produce items that could be touched and used regularly, challenging the conventional hands-off approach often associated with gallery exhibits. The display includes a diverse range of functional and decorative items, such as Primitive Arrangement vases by Nick Ross, two-armed candelabras by David Taylor, and architectural toilet-roll holders crafted by Juli Bolaños-Durman from salvaged materials. Other notable pieces include James Rigler’s bronze-glazed ceramic 'Greek Knobs,' Oliver Spendley’s bowls made from polished mountain rock shards, and All About Willow’s hand-turned cherry porridge spurtles. The collection also showcases Clement Knives’ pocket knives made from whisky-barrel hoops, Eve Eunson’s baskets woven from sea plastic collected from Shetland’s beaches, and Studio Viv Lee’s devotional ceramic characters. Additionally, Jess White contributes leather-wrapped boulder doorstops, while Araminta Campbell offers cozy alpaca hot-water bottle covers. Each piece is presented to encourage interaction, emphasizing the tactile and experiential qualities of craft. This exhibition marks three years since Bard opened its doors in Leith, establishing a unique approach to presenting and selling craft. Macdonald highlights the importance of humor and mild irreverence in making craft more approachable and moving it beyond the confines of a museum setting into everyday life. He acknowledges the cost associated with handcrafted items but underscores their inherent value, contrasting this with the societal issue of cheap, mass-produced goods. Since its inception, Bard has observed a significant increase in public engagement with craft, marked by a greater willingness to purchase, utilize, and inquire about the practitioners, materials, and skills involved. Macdonald believes that craft is a fundamental 'life force' that enriches human experience and fosters connections across cultures and time. He posits that craft is not a regressive or counterbalancing force to design and technology but rather a parallel and powerful element that becomes even more impactful when integrated into modern life, indicating a collective awakening to its enduring relevance and value. #CraftExhibition #ScottishArt #HomeDecor #DesignInteriors #FunctionalArt #BardGallery #EverydayObjects #HardwareShopInspiration #ContemporaryCraft

The Cubrick is a storage cabinet that embodies an elegant and unexpected transformation, developed through a collaboration between industrial designer Cairn Young and cabinet maker Ian Spencer, who operate as Yard Sale Project. This UK-based duo works out of a South London workshop, specializing in small-batch furniture pieces. Their philosophy centers on combining Young's unique design skills with Spencer's artisanal talents, aiming to bridge the gap between contemporary design aesthetics and the meticulous craftsmanship of handmade, one-off items. The Cubrick is presented as a storage furniture counterpart to the Fletcher Capstan Table, renowned for its intricate expanding mechanism. A key aspect of the Cubrick's design and functionality is what Yard Sale Project refers to as the "Chaos Technique." This approach is fundamental to their creative philosophy, allowing them to transcend traditional construction methods that often impose limitations on design possibilities. By embracing this "chaotic" technique, they aim to break free from conventional boundaries while maintaining a deep understanding and appreciation for woodworking. Their method draws inspiration from the Arts & Crafts movement's technical knowledge of wood, yet simultaneously rejects its sometimes rigid adherence to "truth to materials" and "honesty." This willingness to challenge tradition extends to their incorporation of various other materials beyond wood. The Cubrick is available as a made-to-order piece, offered in four different sizes and a diverse range of finishes and colors. Pricing for the Cubrick varies significantly based on its configuration and materials. For instance, the lowest-priced model, a twelve-box unit with a semi-matte finish, starts at approximately £4,698 (US $7,335). The cost can increase to as much as £7,484 (US $11,684) for a variable-height 20-cube model, particularly when finished with materials like Nextel Suede. Potential buyers are provided with an interactive online demo that allows them to virtually customize and visualize their desired Cubrick configuration. #FurnitureDesign #IndustrialDesign #CabinetMaking #StorageSolutions #TransformingFurniture #ChaosTechnique #BespokeFurniture #ArtisanCraftsmanship

This article details how home decor designer Yvonne Ellen transformed an IKEA Billy bookcase into a unique and personalized display cabinet, offering an affordable and creative solution for refreshing existing furniture. The Billy bookcase, known for its practicality and versatility as a shelving and book storage unit, can lose its appeal over time. This DIY trick provides a way to refresh it without significant expense. The transformation process begins with repainting the bookcase. Yvonne Ellen suggests utilizing existing paint pots for a budget-friendly approach. After cleaning the unit, pastel paints can be applied, with different colors layered for subtle or bold contrasts. For her project, Yvonne Ellen used Farrow & Ball Faded Terracotta for the exterior and LICK Green 09 for the interior of the cupboards, demonstrating a harmonious color combination. Next, the article highlights the importance of enhancing organization within the bookcase by adding rails, hooks, and storage boxes. Emphasizing the utilization of vertical space, Yvonne Ellen recommends installing items like gold rails and hooks, available at IKEA, to create hanging storage for items like teacups. Additional shelving, such as IKEA PALYCKE clip-on baskets and IKEA CISSAN napkin holders, can be incorporated to hold lightweight items, maximizing storage efficiency and organization within the unit. Another crucial step involves installing lighting to improve visibility within the display cabinet. Yvonne Ellen used a battery-powered motion-sensor light, easily sourced from online retailers like Amazon, to illuminate the contents. This simple addition enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the display. The final stage focuses on personalization through detailing. Yvonne Ellen considers this the most enjoyable part of the process, as it allows for a unique and exclusive finish. She applied gold leaf to the bevelled edges of the doors to match her personal style. The transformation is completed by adding decorative handles, such as the vintage-looking green and gold handles from Anthropologie, which contribute to a more expensive, art-deco appearance. This comprehensive approach demonstrates how a common furniture piece can be elevated into a bespoke display unit, allowing individuals to showcase their favorite items without needing to purchase new furniture. #IKEAHack #BillyBookcase #DIYHomeDecor #FurnitureTransformation #DisplayCabinet #HomeUpcycling #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecorating #StorageSolutions

Renova Custom Woodworks, based in Fort Worth, specializes in providing custom wood features that enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of residential spaces. The company collaborates with builders and homeowners to create unique and personalized elements, including custom cabinetry, vent hoods, built-ins, and custom islands. This approach allows for distinctive designs that transform houses into tailored living environments. David and Brenna Blacklock, owners of BT Builders, frequently partner with Renova's owner, Mark Crowell, on both custom and speculative homes. They highlight that Renova offers greater customization options and better value compared to larger retailers, which often have limited styles and higher costs for deviations. Brenna Blacklock, responsible for design at BT Builders, appreciates Crowell’s ability to understand and execute her vision, even from rough sketches, making otherwise complex or unique designs a reality. Crowell's dedication to his craft and client satisfaction is consistently noted as a key differentiator. Renova Custom Woodworks offers five primary ways to elevate a space, combining functionality with beauty. First, they provide customizable storage solutions. Their custom cabinetry is designed to integrate seamlessly with a home's architecture, maximizing storage efficiency while enhancing visual appeal. These solutions are crafted from high-quality materials and finishes, allowing for diverse styles ranging from modern minimalism to classic elegance. This ensures that practical storage becomes an artistic component of the room's design. Second, Renova focuses on innovative lighting solutions. They work with builders to design and install custom cabinetry lighting that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. These installations often incorporate dimmable and energy-efficient options, balancing visual impact with practicality and ambiance creation. Appropriate lighting is crucial for setting the mood and highlighting architectural details. Third, the company specializes in statement wood accents and textures. By incorporating unique wood features like custom vent hoods, furniture-styled pieces, and floating shelves, Renova introduces natural warmth and elegance into homes. These elements provide depth and personality, offering a timeless, high-end aesthetic that can elevate even simpler interiors. The use of natural wood connects the indoor environment with organic textures. Fourth, Renova facilitates seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. In response to homeowners' desire for a connection to nature, the company offers custom woodwork solutions that blend indoor and outdoor spaces harmoniously. Examples include stylish outdoor cabinetry, which extends the home's living area and adds a high-end selling point for builders and remodelers, enhancing overall livability. Finally, Renova crafts bespoke built-in features. These custom installations include bookshelves, entertainment centers, and window seats, all tailored to the specific dimensions of the home and the client's needs. Built-ins are effective space-savers and serve as focal points that enhance a room's aesthetics, providing personalized solutions that excel in both form and function. By offering these detailed and custom woodworking services, Renova helps clients achieve distinctive and highly functional home environments. #CustomWoodworks #HomeDesign #Cabinetry #WoodFeatures #CustomStorage #BuiltIns #Remodeling #InteriorDesign

This article details the transformation of a former San Francisco warehouse into a raw yet refined living space and art studio for art dealer Francis Mill. Collaborating with designer Stephan Jones, Mill sought to create an environment that embraced the building's industrial past while providing a flexible and functional backdrop for his extensive art collection. The 1,200-square-foot loft, originally a pharmaceuticals warehouse from 1937, boasted 11-foot ceilings and raw wooden door frames, which were preserved and highlighted. The design philosophy centered on incorporating the space’s idiosyncrasies, such as original Y-shaped concrete columns, and creating uninterrupted vistas often punctuated by sculptures and defined by curtains. Recognizing Mill's tendency for frequent art and furniture rearrangements, Jones designed many elements to be modular and flexible. This included “anchor zones” with stationary furniture, like a minimalist wooden banquette and daybed in the living room niche, and low-profile pieces to maintain clear sight lines. A pivoting blackened-steel door serves both as a focal point and a space divider, while a built-in steel bookcase with staggered black-painted wooden boxes pays homage to sculptor Louise Nevelson. Jones and Mill intentionally enhanced the loft's industrial character by further chiseling the pitted concrete walls, moving away from a previous attempt to polish them. This approach aimed for a more soulful space that would serve as a versatile setting for Mill's evolving art collection, aligning with his philosophy of continuously engaging with art rather than seeing a space as 'finished.' The once-large, open kitchen was reconfigured into a discreet galley kitchen. An initial hesitation from Mill about adding a dropped ceiling led to a compromise: a partial ceiling that exposes a structural pillar and concrete, emphasizing the building’s original texture while delineating the space. The kitchen’s lack of natural light was creatively leveraged, allowing for the display of delicate works on paper and the installation of a projection screen. In the master bedroom, a conventional sliding-door closet was replaced with an art-inspired concept for wardrobe storage. Mill describes it as a 'Donald Judd–style plywood box' crashing into the bedroom, fitted with steel shelving for shoes, often left open. Throughout the home, unexpected details contribute to the space's unique charm, such as flat files in the art studio containing white Legos, a feather collection, and sand, which Mill refers to as his 'urban sandbox.' Even massive works, like a floor-to-ceiling black steel sculpture by Brian Wall, offer intimate details due to the human-scaled proportions of the space. The design reflects a continuous work in progress, embodying Mill's dynamic approach to living with art. #WarehouseConversion #LoftDesign #ArtGalleryHome #SanFranciscoInteriors #IndustrialChic #ModularFurniture #StephanJonesDesign #FrancisMill #ArtCollectionDisplay

This article details a kitchen renovation project undertaken by interior designer Amber Lewis, founder of Amber Interiors, in partnership with Signature Kitchen Suite. The collaboration aims to transform Lewis's personal kitchen in Calabasas into a "No Ordinary Kitchen" that reflects her refined California style and showcases the innovative features of Signature Kitchen Suite's luxury appliances. Amber Lewis, a Malibu native, developed an early passion for interior design through her father's construction work. After brief stints in fashion school and UCLA's interior design program, she launched her own firm, Amber Interiors. Her blog, initially a platform for sharing her experiences as a first-time homeowner, has evolved into a successful design-build firm with a distinctive aesthetic. Lewis is known for creating cozy, eclectic spaces characterized by airy white walls, layered textures, colorful textiles, brushed metals, and natural elements. Her success has led to a furniture and home goods line, an e-commerce business, and a brick-and-mortar store. The renovation began because Lewis felt her existing kitchen did not align with her design philosophy. She is documenting the entire process, including updates on the remodeling and installation, for her blog readers and social media followers. The article provides a sneak peek into her design plans through a mood board, which features a unified palette of warm beige, gray, and white, with matte black and oil-rubbed bronze accents for contrast. The design incorporates Scandinavian influences, utilizing muted, earthy tones for cabinets, white oak flooring, and coordinating floating shelves. A glazed thin brick backsplash complements a Calacatta Michelangelo polished marble countertop on the kitchen island. A white undermount sink with a matte black faucet and oil-rubbed bronze cabinet hardware maintain a minimal aesthetic. Signature Kitchen Suite appliances, particularly the stainless steel 30" Gas Slide-In Range with brass burners, are central to the new kitchen's design and functionality. The range boasts RapidHeat™ burners for powerful stovetop cooking and ProHeat™ Convection technology for even oven heating. All appliances are Wi-Fi enabled, allowing for remote preheating and other smart functionalities. The 30" Hood above the range features an LED light display, four fan speeds, and a clean filter indicator. Cleanup is simplified with Speed Clean™ technology. The renovation involved significant structural changes. Lewis's original kitchen had a country-style aesthetic with scallop-edged cabinets and outdated tiles. The remodel aimed to create an open, inviting space with a large kitchen island suitable for cooking, dining, and entertaining. The project included installing new flooring, cabinets, and the island, updating windows, exposing wooden ceiling beams, and building a banquette seating area. Square footage was added to achieve the desired spacious feel. The article highlights other Signature Kitchen Suite appliances, including the 42" Built-In Side-By-Side Refrigerator with a SmartSpace™ system for increased storage and adjustable shelves, and an LED touch control panel. This smart refrigerator allows for monitoring energy use and diagnosing performance issues via an app. The Signature Kitchen Suite dishwasher, with its LoDecibel Quiet Operation at 40 decibels, and PowerSteam™ technology, ensures efficient yet quiet cleaning for various dish types. It also features a SmartRack™ system with adjustable holders and Wi-Fi connectivity for monitoring cycles and downloading additional options. The brand emphasizes customer service through its 24/7 Kitchen Concierge, accessible via the Signature At Your Service™ app, which provides support for installation, maintenance, and repairs. The article concludes by noting the nearing completion of the renovation and the anticipation of the official before-and-after reveal on Lewis’s blog, emphasizing the transformative power of a "No Ordinary Kitchen." #kitchenRenovation #interiorDesign #luxuryAppliances #smartHome #californiaStyle #amberInteriors #signatureKitchenSuite #homeRemodel #designProcess

Roc H Biel, a designer and Royal College of Art alumnus, has created a sculptural furniture collection named "Dust Order," which redefines sustainability by utilizing wood dust, typically considered a waste product. The collection transforms this fine offcut material into monumental forms, drawing inspiration from classical columns and challenging traditional perceptions of weight and material. The design aims to evoke a sense of ancient history while maintaining a modern and otherworldly aesthetic. The "Dust Order" series comprises two primary objects: a sculptural chair and a modular desk system. Both pieces showcase the unique, granular texture of compacted wood dust, reminiscent of raw stone or sand casting, yet they possess a surprising lightness. Biel's approach reinterprets classical motifs through a contemporary lens, creating pieces that feel both familiar and futuristic, aiming to generate a moment of wonder where material, memory, and perception converge. The sculptural chair in the collection is constructed entirely from compacted beech wood dust. Its design features negative space that creates a visual rhythm, and its geometric profiles transition from octagon to circle to square, giving a modern edge to the classical column silhouette. The chair's surface texture belies its unexpected lightness, making it a conversation piece that challenges expectations of its composition. The modular desk system offers versatility and functionality. It consists of three 3D-printed components made from a bonded mixture of magnesium and beech wood dust. These components are designed to represent the classic elements of columns—shaft, capital, and entablature—but are reimagined for contemporary use. The modular nature allows for various configurations, transforming the desk into a stool, a bench, a bench with a side table, or a dining table. This adaptability is paired with a grainy texture that evokes compacted earth or pressed sediment, connecting its modern function with ancient materials. Biel's work in "Dust Order" highlights intentional contrasts: between weight and weightlessness, waste and refinement, and earth and atmosphere. The project serves as an example of how unconventional materials can be elevated into sophisticated design, proving that surrealism can manifest in powerful physical forms beyond digital realms. The designer's innovative use of wood dust not only promotes sustainability but also challenges the aesthetic and tactile expectations of furniture, transforming discarded material into objects of artistic and functional value. #FurnitureDesign #SustainableDesign #WoodDust #SculpturalFurniture #ModularFurniture #ClassicalModernFusion #MaterialInnovation #RocHBiel

This article details the transformation of a 1985 colonial-style home in Northwest, Washington D.C., undertaken by Fowlkes Studio. The homeowners, with Italian backgrounds and frequent European travel, sought to infuse their residence with old-world charm, vibrant colors, and unique panache, moving away from its initial lack of architectural personality. The 10-month construction project resulted in an eclectic and sophisticated interior that blends historicist and modern detailing. The layout of the house is divided by a central hall, separating two living rooms on one side from a dining room and kitchen on the other. The architects addressed the initial repetitiveness of the rooms by adding textural elements, such as "sticking" to the family room ceiling, and incorporating varied trim and molding. A key focal point in the family room became a new honed super white marble fireplace flanked by metal bookshelves. The space was then furnished with contemporary pieces in bold, primary colors to create a lively atmosphere. Despite differing designs, the family room and the more formal living space are harmoniously connected by pale wood flooring. A brightly colored cabinet serves as a functional and visually appealing storage solution in the family room. The architects and principals of Fowlkes Studio, VW and Catherine Fowlkes, emphasized the collaborative process with the clients, highlighting how their willingness to take risks with design elements like two-toned cabinets and high-relief trim contributed to the project's success. The formal living room received custom-designed crown molding, an experimental layering element that creates a deliberate gap between the ceiling and walls, providing an unexpected touch. For the dining room, a central homeowner request, the architects removed the hallway wall, replacing it with a continuous run of freestanding millwork. These cabinets serve multiple functions: a coat closet accessed from the hall, storage for heirloom china and crystal in the dining area, and a coffee station extending into the kitchen. The dining space is enlivened with primary color accents, including a bright artwork and tomato-red wishbone chairs, illuminated by pendant lights from Louis Poulsen. In the kitchen, new wire-brushed white oak cabinetry with walnut accents defines the space. The central island acts as the sole divider between the dining area and the main kitchen, while taller cabinets replace traditional walls. Cabinet door fronts feature solid oak panels in the kitchen and burlap fabric in the dining room, adding textural contrast. Honed Saffron White Marble countertops and Grohe Essence faucets are complemented by Wolf and SubZero appliances, while a vintage runner introduces additional warmth and texture. A butler's pantry, created from a former laundry room space, provides a discreet service area for dirty dishes. A distinctive architectural feature above the kitchen window—a bulging header that engulfs the built-in range hood—adds a contemporary touch and mirrors the curvilinear form of the outdoor terrace. Upstairs, the primary suite was reconfigured by combining two bedrooms and a bathroom. The bedroom features an oak bed wall that mimics the material and function of the downstairs millwork, separating the sleeping area from closets leading to the bathroom. Playful touches include a russet headboard and asymmetrical FLOS reading lights. The ensuite bathroom incorporates geometric terracotta Zia tiles and Venetian plaster for a European aesthetic, with Phylrich Transition Line plumbing fixtures and a Victoria + Albert soaking tub. A white oak vanity with a honed Petite Blue limestone countertop offers a fresh take on old-world charm. Finally, the exterior of the house was updated to enhance its curb appeal. Shutters were removed, the red brick was painted, and original double-hung windows were replaced with gray casements. A single-panel front door matching the window color, a copper Poul Henningsen light, and a bright-orange custom steel handrail against the restrained exterior palette exemplify the project's overall blend of traditional and unexpected elements. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BoldColors #ArchitecturalTransformation #FamilyHome #FowlkesStudio #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #LivingRoomIdeas

In a recent renovation project, designer Hannah Oravec and her husband, Michael, transformed a 1,200-square-foot cabin in Maine, which they purchased after being inspired by the autumn foliage during a visit. The cabin, originally characterized by a dark, amber glow due to an outdated 1980s orange polyurethane finish on its wood, presented a significant design challenge. The couple undertook a four-month-long renovation, focusing primarily on updating the interior's extensive pine logs and v-groove board paneling. The renovation began with the arduous task of sanding and restaining over 5,000 square feet of wood surfaces. Hannah humorously noted the physical demands of this process, stating her arms were sore for three months. To achieve a smooth finish, each surface required four rounds of sanding, progressing from 40-grit to 220-grit sandpaper. This meticulous process involved removing the old finish, refining the surface, and even dampening the wood to lift the grain for optimal stain absorption. Michael, with his background in wood furniture, introduced the technique of using a flashlight to detect inconsistencies more accurately than tactile inspection. The couple also upgraded from hand sanders to two Bosch orbit sanders to enhance efficiency. To eliminate the undesirable orange tint, Hannah selected a combination of three different Rubio Monocoat stains. For the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and dining areas, an opaque white tint was achieved by combining Rubio’s Pre-easy primer with Super White stain. The main bedroom and bathroom ceilings were treated with Rubio’s Natural color, while the remaining areas and lofted bedroom walls received a warmer touch using a blend of Pure and Chocolate stains. In addition to aesthetic choices, the couple prioritized sustainability by using low-VOC paints and stains, Oeko Tex-certified fabrics, natural-fiber rugs, and sourcing vintage items. The kitchen underwent a significant transformation, with the removal of an old peninsula to create space for a travertine dining table, fostering a more entertaining-friendly layout. The lower cabinets were reconfigured to accommodate a new farmhouse sink and painted black. The countertops were DIY-tiled with quick-ship Basalt tiles from Fireclay, a project that Michael completed over a single weekend by laying cement. The bathroom also saw notable changes, including the installation of a 100-pound stone sink purchased from Etsy. Michael custom-built a framing structure from salvaged wood beams to securely support the heavy sink, intentionally leaving most of the stone exposed for aesthetic appeal and incorporating a small shelf underneath. To ensure design cohesion in the compact bathroom, the checkered Fireclay shower tiles, in Antique and Carbon, were extended onto the tub edges and floor. This design choice aimed to create a more expansive and less fragmented feel within the tight space, offering a bold contrast to the predominant wood elements found throughout the rest of the cabin. The renovation successfully transformed the cabin's dated interior into a modern, cozy, and sustainable living space, demonstrating a significant improvement from its original state. #CabinRenovation #WoodStaining #InteriorDesign #DIYRenovation #SustainableDesign #MaineHome #BeforeAndAfter

The article highlights TRASHY, a North Carolina-based company, and its 2025 furniture collection, which addresses the issue of non-degradable waste by repurposing styrofoam. The company blends reclaimed styrofoam with concrete to create functional and aesthetically pleasing furniture, including the Dune Coffee Table, Dune Side Table, Dune Dining Table, and the Wave of Change Side Table. This innovative approach aims to close a significant waste loop by diverting between 40 to 50 cubic feet of styrofoam from landfills for every square foot of concrete produced. The development of TRASHY's process is rooted in recycling technology from North Carolina's Research Triangle and draws inspiration from the region’s furniture-making heritage. The company emphasizes a blend of materials science and traditional craft, collaborating with expert manufacturers to ensure each piece is durable, contains a high percentage of recycled content, and possesses a refined form. The design process includes rigorous real-world testing to guarantee the furniture's resilience against various environmental factors and daily use, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. The 2025 collection's design is inspired by the tranquil dune landscapes of Topsail, North Carolina, reflecting a dual purpose: protecting the environment from styrofoam pollution and offering versatile furniture solutions. A critical aspect of the collection is its tactile quality. The Dune tables, for instance, feature warm gray concrete dotted with charcoal flecks and subtle pockets that interact with light, creating an engaging visual and textural experience. The organic shapes of the pieces contribute to an elegant outline, showcasing the innovative material's inherent beauty. TRASHY employs a clever design choice by utilizing a polished finish for the tabletops, which facilitates easier cleaning and maintenance. This polished surface contrasts with the relatively gritty, exposed aggregate base, creating an interesting material dichotomy that is both refined and unique. For consumers who prefer a smoother surface, the Dune tables are also available with a smooth finish, offering design flexibility. The Wave of Change Table further exemplifies TRASHY's commitment to sustainability. Its tabletop incorporates the company’s proprietary styrofoam recycling process, while its legs are crafted from Urban Wood, sourced from naturally fallen trees in North Carolina. This dual use of reclaimed materials underscores the company's mission to close waste loops comprehensively. TRASHY's founder, Laura Olson, was motivated by the pervasive problem of styrofoam's long degradation period. Her vision led to the creation of sustainable, lightweight, and thoughtfully designed products that are also conceived for future disassembly and repair, promoting a circular economy. All furniture pieces are made to order, which helps minimize waste, labor, and storage requirements, aligning with the company's overarching sustainable production philosophy. #SustainableDesign #RecycledFurniture #StyrofoamRecycling #ConcreteFurniture #EcoFriendlyHome #FurnitureDesign #MaterialInnovation #WasteDiversion #CircularEconomy

This blog post details a living room makeover in London, focusing on transforming a cluttered and overwhelming space into a serene and functional area. The homeowner, Francesca, sought to add personality, increase storage, and integrate the decor with her existing sofa. The initial state of the living room lacked adequate storage, featuring empty alcoves on either side of the fireplace, irregular-shaped walls, and minimal furniture. Francesca expressed a desire for a custom bookcase to fit these alcoves. To address these challenges, Francesca collaborated with Bespoke Carpentry London, who provided a design tailored to her specific requirements. The custom-designed bookcase was crafted to perfectly fit the alcoves, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The installation process was efficient, with carpenters completing the adjustment and assembly on-site within a week, resulting in a piece described as a "proper work of art." Post-makeover, the living room now features dramatic black cabinetry and shelving that frame the fireplace. This design effectively utilizes the previously empty alcove space, offering enclosed cupboards for discreet storage and open shelves for displaying decorative accessories. The black color scheme, while bold, contributes to a well-lit ambiance, partly due to a strategically placed overmantel mirror that reflects light throughout the room. A smaller television is now subtly integrated atop one of the cabinets, reducing its prominence as a focal point compared to its previous setup. On the opposing side of the room, the walls have been kept light, establishing a monochrome aesthetic that complements the existing grey sofa. This contrast between the dark, built-in units and the light walls creates a sense of spaciousness and character. Francesca noted that the bespoke piece has become the "protagonist" of her living room, significantly improving the room's overall personality and functionality. The transformation has imbued the space with an Art Deco feel, highlighting the impact of custom finishes. #LivingRoomMakeover #BuiltInShelving #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CustomCarpentry #StorageSolutions #ArtDecoStyle #SpaceTransformation

British architect John Pawson has partnered with Danish timber brand Dinesen to introduce a new furniture collection. This collaboration marks Pawson's latest venture into product design, following a long-standing relationship between the architect and the 125-year-old wood company. The collection, characterized by its pared-back aesthetic and minimal design, features a range of tables and seating options crafted primarily from Dinesen's signature ash wood. The launch encompasses a Lounge Series, which includes a stool, a daybed, and an armchair. These upholstered pieces are available with textiles from the renowned brand Kvadrat, adding a touch of softness to the otherwise austere wooden frames. Additionally, the collection introduces a Dining Series, comprising various tables and complementary seating. The design philosophy behind these pieces reflects Pawson's well-known minimalist approach, emphasizing clean lines, functional forms, and the inherent beauty of the natural material. The partnership between Pawson and Dinesen dates back approximately three decades, originating from the architect's need for simple, custom-made furniture for his London residence. Pawson initially crafted these pieces from Dinesen's ash wood planks, effectively laying the groundwork for this official collaboration. Both Pawson and Hans Peter Dinesen, the fifth-generation brand director, share a profound appreciation for wood as a foundational element in design. They view furniture not merely as objects but as stages upon which life unfolds, highlighting its role in shaping personal narratives within the home. Hans Peter Dinesen articulates this sentiment by stating that furniture serves as a medium for shared stories, particularly within domestic settings. Pawson further emphasizes the significance of furniture placement, noting that even minor adjustments can profoundly impact a space's ambiance and functionality. This attention to detail and thoughtful arrangement underscores the collection's alignment with principles of intentional living and design. To formally unveil the collection, Pawson and Dinesen are preparing a special presentation for the upcoming 3 Days of Design festival in Copenhagen. During this event, Dinesen's Copenhagen showroom will be transformed into a model apartment, meticulously furnished with pieces from the new line. This immersive experience will allow visitors to witness the collection in a realistic setting, demonstrating its versatility and integration within a residential environment. The exhibition will also serve as a practical demonstration of Pawson's philosophy on furniture arrangement and its impact on living spaces. #JohnPawson #Dinesen #FurnitureCollection #MinimalistDesign #WoodFurniture #InteriorDesign #DanishDesign #DesignCollaboration #ContemporaryFurniture

The smallest details can significantly impact home decor, and cabinet hardware, while often overlooked, plays a crucial role in defining a space's aesthetic. The right hardware can transform the look of kitchens, bathrooms, or furniture pieces. This article explores a variety of unique and unexpected cabinet hardware designs that go beyond typical knobs and handles seen over the past decades. The evolution of hardware includes not only diverse finishes and designs but also changes in placement, such as using single long handles for wider drawers to achieve a cleaner look. The article highlights options ranging from sleek, minimalist architectural pulls and irregularly shaped handles to ornate scroll designs, retro latches, and onyx-adorned knobs. These unconventional choices infuse personality into a home and enhance both the visual appeal and functionality of cabinets and drawers. Whether a homeowner is looking to replace outdated kitchen hardware or simply desires something distinctive, these whimsical alternatives aim to inspire creativity across various interior design aesthetics. Among the unique options presented are irregular-shaped hardware, which adds visual interest and a sculptural quality that breaks the monotony of traditional flat designs. For music enthusiasts, musical note-shaped handles offer a retro vibe, crafted from materials like chrome-coated brass for a striking statement. Architectural hardware, characterized by clean, symmetric lines and geometric shapes, provides a bold, modern accent suitable for contemporary or minimalist homes. Jaguar handles, particularly brass designs, serve as a blend of art and function, bringing a quirky, luxurious touch with meticulous handcrafted details that can complement maximalist nature-inspired trends. Marble handles introduce elegance, with natural, irregular veining making each piece unique, available in various colors from deep burgundy to off-white, fitting styles from rustic to cottage-core. Bird-shaped knobs, like solid brass bird cabinet pulls, offer a whimsical yet elegant design, providing functional handles with sculpted silhouettes that bring warmth and character. Toothbrush and toothpaste-themed handles are presented as a quirky and fresh option for bathrooms, available in antique metal finishes. Onyx handles offer a premium, timeless, and luxurious feel with their iridescent glow and diverse color choices. Carrara-inspired handles mimic the colors and veining of Carrara marble, offering texture and an organic style suitable for contemporary or glam aesthetics, fitting well in rustic kitchens or luxurious bathrooms. Swan knobs, made from solid brass, feature intricate details that capture the bird's form, serving as both functional and decorative accents that add a stylish metallic pop to various furniture pieces. Retro latches, such as small oval cupboard latches, provide a vintage-inspired look for kitchen cabinets and armoires, crafted from high-quality forged brass in various metal finishes. Lastly, the "thinking man" handle, made from solid gold brass, is a statement-making piece featuring a seated figure, aligning with the trend of oversized hardware, while ornate scroll handles add regal, old-world charm with intricate scrollwork and vintage-inspired details, enhancing furniture with craftsmanship and sophistication. #CabinetHardware #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #UniqueHardware #DesignTrends #HomeImprovement #FurnitureHardware

Refinishing wood furniture offers a sustainable approach to updating home decor by transforming old, tired timber pieces into fresh, functional items. This practice supports the reduce, reuse, and recycle mantra by giving new life to items sourced from salvage yards, charity shops, or online marketplaces. Refinishing can significantly enhance the character of a space, especially when integrating vintage pieces into modern settings, such as using an antique timber piece as a washstand in a contemporary bathroom. Tropical hardwoods from the mid-20th century, for example, are valuable resources that can be preserved and revitalized with treatments like hardwax oil, which enhances their natural qualities. The appeal of refinished pieces often lies in their existing 'bruises' and imperfections, which can make a space feel more relaxed and less focused on pristine perfection. Various finishing options exist, including waxes, oils, hard wax oils, stains, dyes, varnish, and limewash. The choice of finish depends on the desired aesthetic and the type of timber being treated. Waxes, oils, and hard wax oils provide the most natural look. Hard wax oils are particularly durable, making them suitable for high-wear surfaces like dining tables and doors. Oils are easy to repair, which is beneficial for households with children, and they penetrate softwoods more effectively. For hardwoods with tighter grains, thinner oils are recommended. Wax helps to retain the timber's character while restoring dry, worn, or scratched areas, and it can be buffed to a sheen or left natural. For those aiming to maintain the raw appearance of pale timber, products with a hint of white pigment, such as Osmo Raw or Fiddes Hard Wax Oil Natural, are ideal. Dyes and stains alter the wood's color, while varnish offers superior protection. Limewash creates a white effect on the grain, best suited for darker timbers. Before committing to a finish, it is crucial to perform a patch test on an inconspicuous area to ensure the desired outcome, including top coats. The refinishing process begins with thorough preparation, primarily sanding to remove any existing coatings, whether paint or unknown finishes. This step is messy and requires protective gear like masks and goggles. For painted surfaces, a paint stripper should be used first. Sanding should start with an 80-grit sandpaper and progress to finer grits to achieve an even surface. Proper preparation is essential to prevent a patchy finish. After sanding, the furniture must be degreased and cleaned. Wiping the surface with methylated spirit on a cloth effectively removes dirt, grease, and sawdust, and the piece should be allowed to dry completely, ideally overnight. The first coat of the chosen finish is then applied. Drying times vary significantly; stains, dyes, and waxes dry quickly, while oils can take 4-12 hours. Manufacturers' instructions should be followed carefully. Most finishes are applied sparingly with a brush, working with the wood grain, while wax can be applied with a cloth, sponge, or brush. After the first coat dries, a 'denibbing' step is recommended for oil, hard wax oil, or varnish finishes. This involves lightly sanding with fine sandpaper or a denibbing pad to remove imperfections and create a better surface for the second coat. This step is not necessary for wax. Finally, a second coat is applied in the same manner as the first. Typically, two coats are sufficient for oil, wax, or hard wax oil, and two to three coats for varnish. It is not advisable to stain over varnished wood without first removing the varnish, as the new product will not properly penetrate or adhere to the surface, potentially leading to an undesirable finish. Refinishing furniture is generally manageable for a weekend project, provided the right tools and products are used, although extended drying times for some oils may require an extra day. #woodFurniture #furnitureRefinishing #DIYProjects #homeImprovement #sustainableLiving #upcycling #interiorDesign #decorTransformation #woodCare