At This Soothing Utah Home, Circular Windows Turn Daylight Into Art

Roula and Fotis, a couple from New York City, embarked on a journey to build a new home on the North Shore of Long Island after a devastating fire destroyed their original French-style residence. Their initial plan was to renovate, but the fire prompted a complete rebuild. They enlisted THE UP STUDIO, an architectural firm, to design a home that would integrate with the surrounding natural landscape. Architects John Patrick Winberry and Adam Wanaselja conceived an L-shaped floor plan that strategically rotates the back of the house by ninety degrees. This design maximizes natural light throughout the day, allowing the sun to interact with the interior spaces across all seasons. The primary living areas are arranged around this L-shaped corner, creating a strong connection to the outdoors. A key design element is the extensive use of large windows and doors, sourced from Marvin, which frame views of the pool and lush greenery. This choice of manufacturer was driven by their flexibility in accommodating both traditional and modern design aesthetics, which were blended in the home's overall style. The front facade retains historical references, while the rear exhibits more contemporary forms. The interior design emphasizes natural elements, featuring natural wood floors and ceilings that complement dark-framed windows and beams in the living room. Marvin Signature Ultimate Casement Narrow Frame Windows and Signature Ultimate French Doors are utilized to flood the space with natural light. The open-plan living room flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining area, characterized by a modern design that combines sleek marble countertops with white and natural wood cabinetry. The homeowners expressed a desire for an indoor-outdoor feel and abundant light, which was achieved through expansive fenestration. The master bedroom, for instance, boasts a wall of windows offering views of the backyard, serving as an ever-changing art piece for the occupants. A modern architectural detail includes a portion of the master suite that cantilevers over the patio and pool, further enhancing the connection to the exterior. Functionality for a young, active family was also a priority in the design. The open layout and numerous windows facilitate a continuous flow, allowing the couple's two sons to move freely and enjoy the surroundings. The central staircase and landing serve as a dramatic focal point, accented by a two-story backdrop of windows that direct attention to the outdoors. The interior features minimal aesthetics with white walls and natural hardwood floors, contributing to a cohesive and serene atmosphere throughout the residence. Despite the challenges of rebuilding after the fire, the couple decided to stay and create a new home that embraces the natural beauty of their property. The architects were instrumental in transforming a difficult situation into an opportunity for a fresh, new design tailored to their growing family's needs. The completed home provides the family with greater freedom and enjoyment, embodying a playful and joyful living environment. #ModernArchitecture #LShapedHome #NaturalLight #IndoorOutdoorLiving #LongIslandHome #TheUpStudio #MarvinWindows #SustainableDesign

The article explores how a newly constructed home in Utah was transformed into a characterful and cozy living space, despite the typical challenges of new builds often lacking a lived-in feel. Interior designer Alex Adamson was involved from the planning stages, aiming to instill warmth and character into the modern structure. The design draws inspiration from a nostalgic New England style and colonial architecture, incorporating thoughtful detailing to create a timeless aesthetic. The living room exemplifies this approach, designed as a comfortable and familiar space. Alex Adamson explains that infusing warmth and character into a new build, which can often feel sterile, was a primary challenge. To overcome this, she drew inspiration from the client's childhood home and neighborhood in Maryland, integrating nostalgic elements through custom millwork, classic wallpaper, and antique fireplace mantels. The inclusion of vintage furniture further enhances the aged, storied feel of the room. A golden grasscloth wallcovering, suggested by Adamson late in the build process, became a favored feature, along with a custom-designed rug. For the dining room, the family, consisting of eight members, needed an extra-long dining table to accommodate their frequent hosting of guests. Since a vintage piece of the required scale was not available, a custom table was designed to replicate antique details, ensuring it fit seamlessly into the space while maintaining a timeless appeal. The overall spatial planning was crucial for this forever home, with rooms designed to be spacious and flexible enough for a growing family and future generations, particularly for large holiday gatherings. The kitchen, central to an entertaining home, features a large stainless steel and brass Lacanche range and double islands. One island is specifically dedicated to seating, serving as a family gathering spot for daily meals, reminiscent of a classic farmhouse work table. Key elements in the kitchen, such as copper pots on a pan rail, glazed white cabinetry, and a classic white tiled backsplash, were chosen to evoke a sense of history and tradition, echoing the homeowner's East Coast upbringing. An adjoining colorful pantry, with rich blue cabinetry and walnut counters, adds both visual interest and practical functionality, designed for everyday use while complementing the owner's blue and white plate collection. Instead of a conventional home office, a cozy, wood-paneled library and music room were created, adding significant character to the new build. This space was intentionally designed with a round table and comfortable seating to foster an inviting atmosphere, moving away from a traditional desk setup. The children's areas also reflect this emphasis on coziness, with a playroom functioning as a library and chess area, featuring a niche for a sofa nestled among bookshelves to create a tucked-in, warm reading spot. The primary bedroom was designed as a sanctuary for the parents of six children, featuring a calming palette of warm buttery cream and soft neutrals. A large antique rug, an antique fireplace mantel, and a distinctive crossed four-poster bedframe contribute to the room's importance and tranquil ambiance. Soft furnishings like floral-printed Roman shades and linen drapes add layers of comfort. An adjoining dressing room, designed to be light and airy with sheer drapes and a custom scalloped ottoman, helps maintain a clutter-free environment. One of the girls' bedrooms utilizes a tone-on-tone approach with varied patterns, including a Robert Kime floral wallpapered ceiling and Les Indiennes hand-blocked duvet, tied together with a soft green rug to create a pretty yet sophisticated look. The designer expressed satisfaction with achieving a timeless feel for the new build and the positive client reactions, particularly from the children, highlighting the rewarding experience of balancing old and new elements and working with various vendors and craftsmen. #InteriorDesign #NewBuild #HomeTour #CharacterfulHomes #UtahHomes #NostalgicDecor #CustomMillwork

Debby Alphin, an artist from Atlanta and Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, shares a vacation home with her husband, Steele, designed to be both a creative sanctuary and a family-friendly coastal retreat. The home's design, spearheaded by Atlanta architect Amanda Orr and built by 79 West Builders Group, heavily emphasizes natural light through the extensive use of Marvin windows and doors. This design philosophy creates an environment that is bright, sunny, and conducive to Alphin’s artistic pursuits, particularly in her studio space. Her studio is strategically positioned to maximize natural light, with her easel facing a window, allowing for optimal illumination for her painting. A dedicated sink for brush cleaning and a Parsons table for sketching further enhance the studio's functionality and appeal, making it a welcoming space for her grandchildren to engage in creative activities. Beyond the studio, the entire home reflects Alphin's commitment to her large family, which includes two daughters and four grandchildren. The design prioritizes breathtaking views and ample space for gatherings. The kitchen features Marvin casement windows, chosen by architect Amanda Orr for their ability to allow more glass and light, contributing to better architectural proportions and an enhanced view of the surrounding greenery compared to traditional double-hung windows. Angela Means, co-owner of Means Carney Interiors, which styled the home, highlights the old-world charm added by the push-out design of these casement windows, noting the magical feeling they create when open with a breeze flowing through. The living room continues this theme of natural light and expansive views with mirrored Marvin Ultimate Swinging French doors. These custom-crafted doors complement the home's aesthetic and frame a lush outdoor scene from two large windows. An innovative design choice for the screened porch overlooking the pool involves Marvin Bi-Fold doors, which significantly expand the room and create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This thoughtful design element allows the porch to accommodate large gatherings, potentially up to thirty people, although this capacity has yet to be fully tested. The home's guest-friendly atmosphere was evident during a Thanksgiving celebration with Alphin's sister and her family. The combination of Orr’s architectural design and Means and Carney’s interior styling, incorporating natural textures and fibers, results in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. The layout includes spacious living areas, a main-floor owners’ suite, and a second story designed for grandchildren, ensuring everyone has room to socialize or find a quiet moment. Ultimately, the design encourages residents and guests alike to relax and appreciate the distant Atlantic Ocean views from the abundant windows, embodying the peaceful and inspiring essence of Lowcountry living. #LowcountryHome #ArtistStudio #NaturalLight #MarvinWindows #CoastalRetreat #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #SouthCarolina

A sunroom, also known as a Florida room, serves as a glass-enclosed porch or an extension of a living room, designed to maximize natural light and offer expansive views of the outdoors. These versatile spaces typically feature large windows or glass walls on three sides, and sometimes include skylights, creating a sun-drenched retreat for relaxation and recreation. Sunrooms provide an ideal setting for enjoying morning coffee or evening cocktails, regardless of the weather, while remaining free from insects. They are also popular environments for cultivating houseplants due to the abundant light. Sunrooms come in two primary types: three-season and four-season. Three-season sunrooms are generally built without air conditioning and are best utilized during spring, summer, and fall, often equipped with ceiling fans for comfort during warmer months. Four-season, insulated versions, however, are designed for year-round living, offering comfort in all climates. The article highlights several inspirational sunroom designs. One example features a sunroom that functions as a grand entryway in a Birmingham home, transformed into a plush space with upholstered furniture and vibrant textiles. Another illustration showcases a New Orleans home where a dark office was converted into a bright solarium, characterized by sky-blue latticework, black-and-white checkerboard tile flooring, and tidy topiaries that connect the interior with the adjacent courtyard. In Charleston, a sunroom is adorned with a geometric floor design and comfortable armchairs, perfect for social gatherings. Further examples include an upstairs sunroom in a Florence, Alabama, cabin that evokes a treehouse feel, furnished with vintage and antique finds. A New Orleans rancher’s sun-laden lounge is painted in Farrow & Ball's Chappell Green, complemented by a seagrass carpet and woven shades, making it feel like a natural extension of the backyard. An Atlanta home’s sunroom incorporates throwback elements like treillage, created using ready-made lattice from The Home Depot, alongside reupholstered attic finds and an oversized paper lantern. Finally, a Nashville Tudor cottage boasts a sunroom that preserves its original windows, with a delicate decorating approach that includes Pierre Frey grass cloth on the walls and fabric on the chairs. A tavern table completes this tranquil space, providing an inviting spot for reading or enjoying a glass of wine. These examples demonstrate the diverse ways sunrooms can be designed and utilized to enhance a home's living space and connect with the natural environment. #SunroomDesign #HomeDecor #IndoorOutdoorLiving #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #GlassEnclosedSpaces #SouthernLiving #RenovationIdeas

This article highlights a modern home in Utah that exemplifies a contemporary approach to transitional style, designed by Light and Dwell for a young family with four children. The design emphasizes a blend of vintage and modern elements, creating a cohesive and personal space that is both curated and warm. The aesthetic leans away from extreme minimalism, favoring a more layered yet intentional decor that still feels welcoming and uplifting. The home's color palette primarily revolves around warmer tones, complemented by unlacquered brass finishes. This combination generates a striking contrast between matte and gleaming surfaces, contributing to an overall ambiance that evokes comfort and a sense of being perpetually candlelit. The designers, Aymee Kuhlman and Molly Kidd, focused on creating a serene and inviting atmosphere while incorporating bold and contrasting details that reflect the family's personality. Their collaborative approach allowed for innovative design choices throughout the project. The kitchen, a central feature of the home, incorporates a European-inspired design with prominent arches in doorways and recesses. These architectural elements add a sense of grandeur without being overly formal, softened by a palette of subtle greys that maintain a homely feel. The spacious kitchen balances light and dark hues, featuring a large Carrara Marble countertop surrounded by high chairs. Brass pendants, along with the sink and fridge handles, tie into the metallic accents seen elsewhere, ensuring a consistent design language. The adjacent back entryway mirrors these design details, utilizing the same color cabinets, Carrara Marble, and brass finishes. The living room boasts high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing ample natural light to flood the space. The decor is a thoughtful mix of grey, white, black, and beige elements. As a new build, the designers were able to integrate elegantly large proportions into the living area. The selection of textures and pieces from different eras is carefully balanced to create a harmonious blend, unified by the overarching color scheme. The dining room demonstrates how a pared-back approach can result in an elegant space. Despite the blessing of large windows, the challenge of excessive light was addressed by installing sheer, cream drapery, ensuring the room remains calm and inviting. A light wood table is paired with wooden chairs and upholstered light grey chairs from Restoration Hardware, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable dining experience. A dresser in the corner provides practical storage for cutlery. The entryway, with its brick flooring laid in a herringbone pattern, showcases meticulous attention to detail. The brick, originally red, was a last-minute change that became one of the designer's favorite features, adding a unique and charming touch. The primary bedroom continues the neutral palette from the main living areas, featuring a smooth wood canopy bed, subtle grey lamps, and pale walls. The combination of diverse materials such as wood, fabric, and ceramic introduces visual interest and depth, preventing the neutral scheme from appearing monotonous. The bathroom introduces a touch of luxury with the inclusion of an armchair, providing a comfortable spot for relaxation within the space. #TransitionalStyle #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #UtahHome #LightAndDwell #ModernHome #NeutralPalette #ArchitecturalArches #CarraraMarble

This Buckhead residence exemplifies Frank Lloyd Wright's "organic architecture" philosophy, seamlessly integrating modern design with natural elements. The home, designed by architect Scott West for a family of four, utilizes natural materials like wood, stone, and concrete throughout its structure to create a continuous flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design's core principle is to avoid disrupting the landscape, instead enhancing its inherent beauty through thoughtful architectural choices. A key feature of the house is the extensive use of glass, including ipe ceilings that extend over glass transom windows and out to the terrace, and glass-walled "pocket gardens" strategically placed in the entry, primary suite, and even the basement garage. These elements introduce organic textures and maintain a visual connection with nature from various points within the home. The most striking element is a 40-foot-long retractable glass wall that spans the entire rear of the house, effectively dissolving the boundary between the interior living space and the outdoor environment, especially the pool area. Project designer Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors highlights the home's continuous flow, noting that the design encourages the family to utilize the entire dwelling, with a central "spine" that connects all rooms. The owners, who previously resided in a four-story townhouse, desired a single-floor lifestyle in their new home, a preference that influenced the expansive layout. This design also allowed for the incorporation of a large subterranean garage, accommodating the owners' sports car collection. The aesthetic of the home draws inspiration from the owners' extensive travels, particularly to Asia, and their experience in luxury hotel development. This influence is evident in the selection of dramatic, luxurious materials and a minimalist approach to accessories. Furniture is characterized by clean lines and upholstered in dark neutrals, with subtle accents of navy. Accessories are intentionally sparse, contributing to an uncluttered and sophisticated ambiance. The outdoor landscaping further reinforces the serene, nature-inspired theme with the inclusion of pom-pom trees, bamboo, and tall grasses. Throughout the home, bespoke details enhance the organic and luxurious feel. A Tom Dixon blown-glass light fixture with an imperfect, organic quality is featured in the foyer. Concrete panels above a see-through fireplace are arranged in a deliberate abstract pattern. The kitchen boasts a sleek Poliform design with bookmatched marble, chosen for its vibrant character over manmade surfaces. The primary bathroom showcases Calacatta Viola marble and black cork walls, with light streaming through tall windows that overlook a private outdoor shower surrounded by lush foliage. In the dining area, another organic blown-glass fixture softly illuminates a dark marble Poliform table. The living room is designed to foster social interaction, intentionally omitting a television. A see-through metal screen separates it from an adjoining music room, providing both architectural interest and a degree of privacy. The primary bedroom features a wall of windows facing the backyard, where stone walls surrounding the pool are integrated with built-in firepits, planters, and fountains, with architect Scott West contributing to the outdoor space design. A corner of the primary bedroom is transformed into a private oasis by glass walls enclosing a shower garden. White oak floors with a custom stain create a contrast with the primary suite’s dark palette, including a gray mohair-upholstered wall, providing a crisp and fresh feel to the room. The overall result is a home that, despite its urban Buckhead location, evokes a sense of a luxurious, faraway sanctuary, blending intimacy with an expansive connection to its surroundings. #OrganicArchitecture #ModernDesign #GlassWalls #PocketGardens #Buckhead #NaturalMaterials #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #LandscapeIntegration

This article highlights a midcentury home in Palm Springs, emphasizing its distinctive architectural features, particularly the extensive use of windows to enhance natural illumination and connect interior spaces with the surrounding environment. The design integrates vaulted ceilings with angled clerestory windows, which play a crucial role in brightening the main rooms and creating an expansive feel within the residence. This architectural choice is characteristic of midcentury modern design, which often prioritized open layouts, natural light, and a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living areas. The home's aesthetic draws from the principles of midcentury modernism, a style that emerged in the mid-20th century, typically between the 1930s and 1960s. Key elements of this style include clean lines, organic and geometric forms, a focus on functionality, and an emphasis on incorporating nature. The abundant use of glass, as described, is a hallmark of this era, allowing homeowners to appreciate their surroundings and maximize daylight, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The article showcases how these design elements contribute to the overall ambiance and liveability of the house. The strategic placement of windows, especially clerestory windows—which are typically high-set windows above eye level—ensures privacy while still allowing ample light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces. This design choice also helps in maintaining cooler indoor temperatures by mitigating direct sun exposure, a practical consideration for homes in regions with warm climates like Palm Springs. The vaulted ceilings further amplify the sense of space and allow for the inclusion of these elevated windows, contributing to the architectural grandeur of the main living areas. The article also implicitly touches upon the enduring appeal of midcentury homes, which continue to be sought after for their timeless design, functional layouts, and aesthetic simplicity. The integration of structural and aesthetic elements, such as the windows and vaulted ceilings, not only serves a practical purpose but also defines the architectural character of the home. This blend of form and function exemplifies the thoughtful design prevalent in midcentury architecture, which aimed to create comfortable, efficient, and visually appealing living environments. #MidcenturyModern #PalmSpringsArchitecture #NaturalLight #VaultedCeilings #ClerestoryWindows #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalPhotography

This blog post highlights a 4,000-square-foot, cedar-clad home in Rumson, New Jersey, designed by Narofsky Architecture, which seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings through extensive use of windows and doors. From the street, the home appears to be a single story, but closer inspection reveals a second ground level and a prominent glass-encased stair tower. The full geometric and angular composition, coupled with expansive glass, becomes evident from the rear. The homeowner, Kerry Ancheta, sought a modern yet organically harmonized dwelling. Narofsky Architecture achieved this by strategically placing the main living spaces on the lower level, fostering a strong connection to the outdoors. The design team incorporated solutions from Kolbe Windows & Doors' VistaLuxe® Collection to enhance this indoor-outdoor flow. The ground level, featuring an open floor plan encompassing the kitchen, living, and dining rooms, along with a guest bedroom, is enveloped by nature through floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. Stuart Narofsky, FAIA and principal architect, noted that the VistaLuxe Collection allowed for maximum heights and widths, accommodating doors along the entire length of the kitchen and family rooms. A unique aspect of the home is the absence of a traditional bedroom wing. Instead, sleeping quarters are arranged in separate areas, connected by the home’s open layout. A catwalk extends across the center of the home, linking the master bedroom to additional rooms on the opposite end. A cantilevered cube on the top level houses a second guest bedroom, projecting over the backyard. All these spaces are unified by a glass-enclosed floating pine staircase, which serves as a light-filled passageway. The stair tower, which travels vertically above a Zen garden, allows residents to look down into this tranquil space. The selection of windows and doors prioritized maximizing sight lines and complementing the home’s modern aesthetic. The VistaLuxe Collection's clean, minimalist design offers narrow sight lines and slim corner posts, creating a nearly frameless view from the interior. The collaboration between architects and Kolbe resulted in a wide selection of windows and doors with low-maintenance extruded aluminum exteriors and warm wood interiors, ideal for modern floor plans and large expanses of glass. For instance, a corner window unit in the living room provides an unobstructed view of the swimming pool, further blending the interior with the exterior. #ModernArchitecture #WindowDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #SustainableDesign #HomeIntegration #GlassWalls #NewJerseyHomes #NarofskyArchitecture

Sunrooms offer a unique blend of indoor comfort and outdoor ambiance, allowing occupants to enjoy the surrounding landscape while remaining sheltered. These versatile, light-filled spaces can serve various purposes, from casual dining areas to relaxing lounges, suitable for all seasons. This article explores 14 stylish sunroom ideas, showcasing how different designs and decor can enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of this transitional space. One example is a coastal shack in Weymouth, Tasmania, where the living space was intentionally designed to follow the sunlight, making a miner’s couch a favorite spot for lounging. Another instance highlights the sunroom of "Ventnor," one of Sydney’s oldest homes, featuring Michael Hirst timber and leather safari chairs alongside a vintage Minotti coffee table, all set against tranquil water views. This design emphasizes a connection with nature while incorporating sophisticated furnishings. A Federation-era home demonstrates a blend of contemporary and heritage elements, with "Pretzal" rattan armchairs basking in a light-drenched sunroom, prioritizing both beauty and functionality. An 1885 Italianate Victorian home preserves its sunroom with untouched, chipped original paintwork, creating a soft, romantic atmosphere. In an updated farmhouse, the sunroom features a neutral, Hamptons-inspired palette with a Colada coffee table, an Early Settler sofa, and a tapestry from France, providing a timeless and comfortable space. The Terragong, an 1858 farmhouse converted into a B&B;, features a sunroom with a vintage chaise and decorative tiles, filled with plants, reflecting a design philosophy that respects the original structure while incorporating complementary furnishings. A converted old cottage showcases a conservatory built as a direct response to its beautiful garden, described as a "gin and tonic room" due to its inviting atmosphere and numerous opening windows. Similarly, a 19th-century church transformed into a retreat on the Hawkesbury River now includes a light-filled sunroom that serves as a dining space with garden views. In a reimagined Southern Highlands bungalow, the sunroom was strategically designed with extensive glass to maximize natural light and views of the gardens, creating a peaceful reading nook. Another heritage home's sunroom was transformed into a Bahamas-plantation-style glasshouse by Tamsin Johnson, who incorporated abundant palms and plants, emphasizing the integration of the outdoors. A stately old manse in Berry, NSW, features a sunroom with a warm beige-caramel palette, creating a layered and inviting look designed by Adelaide Bragg. A worker’s cottage in Sydney received a monochrome makeover, with its atrium overlooking a garden designed by Peter Fudge Gardens, showcasing how a sunroom can become a central element. An elegant abode with a Hamptons-style sunroom, designed by Greg Natale, features a coastal theme with prevalent patterns. Finally, a restored historic Blackbutt bungalow includes a timber-lined sunroom that serves as a family gathering spot, designed to capture sunlight and provide a comfortable space with neutral textures. These examples illustrate diverse approaches to sunroom design, from preserving historical elements to implementing modern renovations, all aimed at creating harmonious spaces that celebrate natural light and the surrounding environment. #SunroomDesign #HomeDecor #Renovating #IndoorOutdoorLiving #LightFilledSpaces #ArchitecturalStyles #CoastalDesign #HeritageHomes #ModernFarmhouse

This article explores eight residential interiors that utilize oversized or uniquely shaped windows to create a strong connection with nature, offering verdant views and tranquil living spaces. Each project showcases distinct approaches to integrating large windows, from urban renovations to homes nestled in forests or on hillsides, emphasizing the role of natural light and outdoor scenery in interior design. The first example, Casa Tres Árboles in Mexico by Direccion, is a weekend retreat featuring neutral tones and floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors that frame lush courtyards, creating a sense of refuge. Hidden Garden House in Sydney, designed by Sam Crawford Architects, transformed an urban home into a sanctuary with a plant-filled sloped roof terrace visible through large windows, providing a private bathing experience. Ome Dezin's renovation of 12221 Benmore, a mid-century home in California, maintains its original charm by incorporating oversized openings to maximize views of the surrounding hillside and enhance its connection to the outdoors. Nisarga Art Hub in Kerala, India, by Wallmakers, functions as both a family home and an arts center. It features earthy interiors with built-in seating positioned to overlook paddy fields through expansive windows. Poet's Corner House in London, an extension by Oliver Leech Architects, addresses dark interiors by adding a four-meter-wide skylight and offering views of a wildflower meadow roof and a rear courtyard. Asmalay, near Mumbai, by Blurring Boundaries, is a curvaceous home designed to wrap around five mango trees. Its oval-shaped windows draw in daylight and provide continuous views of the leafy forest. Memo Architectuur's renovation of Well House in Belgium transformed a dilapidated row house into a bright single-family home, with floor-to-ceiling rear openings that create a picturesque backdrop for the open-plan kitchen and upper-floor balcony. Finally, House Dokka in Norway, by Snøhetta, comprises two stacked timber-clad volumes designed to resemble a floating treehouse. Perched on a hillside, it features large black-framed windows that optimize views of the rocky landscape. These projects collectively illustrate how strategic window placement and design can enhance interiors by integrating natural surroundings, improving daylighting, and fostering a sense of peace and connection to the environment. The selection highlights diverse architectural styles and geographical locations, all united by their innovative use of windows to bring the outdoors in. #TranquilInteriors #OversizedWindows #LushViews #ResidentialDesign #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalWindows #NatureIntegration

Designer Garrow Kedigian's Montreal townhouse, built in 1923, showcases a bold and sophisticated approach to interior design, emphasizing dark colors and rich textures. Kedigian, known for putting a unique twist on neutrals, transformed this L-shaped corner townhouse into a luxurious and inviting home. The design seamlessly blends modern and traditional elements, incorporating various design styles and materials across different rooms. The exterior of the 1923 townhouse sets the stage for the refined interiors. Upon entering, the staircase immediately captures attention with an Antilocarpa carpet from Stark, which pays homage to Canada's fur-trading history. This dramatic stair runner is described as both contemporary and classic by Kedigian. The architectural details of the staircase are highlighted by trim painted in glossy Benjamin Moore Black. Reproductions of Géricault's artworks are strategically placed throughout the home, adding a touch of classical artistry. The living room exudes a warm and cocooning atmosphere, achieved through walls and moldings painted in Benjamin Moore's Rattan, a warm beige hue. Simple gold details are incorporated to enhance the sense of luxury. This space features a vintage coffee table by Philip and Kelvin LaVerne, and a custom sofa upholstered in Rogers & Goffigon's Biarritz fabric. Seating options include an armchair covered in a Pierre Frey velvet and another in a Chelsea Editions fabric. A Lotus floor lamp by Barbara Barry for Circa Lighting and a Stark rug complete the elegant ensemble. In contrast, the sitting room introduces a deeper color palette. Here, red leather nailhead trimming from Samuel & Sons creates the illusion of wall paneling. An antique Gustavian sofa is upholstered in vintage raw silk, adding to the room's character. The Jalen chandelier from Arteriors provides illumination, while the trim is painted in Benjamin Moore's Branchport Brown, further enhancing the rich aesthetic. The dining room strikes a balance between modern and traditional design. It features a chrome-and-glass table from Andrew Martin, paired with Louis XVI–style Marilyn chairs from Global Views. Curtains made from Rogers & Goffigon's Pirouette fabric and a Stark rug define the space. A vintage buffet in the dining room serves as a display for books and decorative items, including a unique table lamp fashioned by Kedigian from a candlestick. The walls of the dining room are painted in a captivatingly dark Benjamin Moore's Caribbean Teal, creating a dramatic backdrop. An antique crystal sconce, a find from a Paris flea market, and a side chair upholstered in Chelsea Editions fabric contribute to the room's sophisticated charm. The butler's pantry features a golden-hued Splendour wallpaper by Catherine Martin for Mokum, complemented by bold swaths of black paint, adding a touch of glamour and functionality. The writing room, embellished by artist Rajiv Surendra, utilizes chalkboard paint by Rust-Oleum, offering a creative and functional space. The master bedroom, painted in Benjamin Moore's Alfresco, showcases Kedigian's preference for blue. An antique four-poster bed is transformed with a canopy made from Kravet Couture's Cadence fabric. The bed is adorned with pillows in fabrics by Etro, Templeton, and Garrow Kedigian for Peter Fasano. Joshua Tall tables by Jayson Home flank the bed, and a custom bench is upholstered in Etro's Enrico. A Stark rug anchors the room. A Daisy G mirror by Worlds Away adds a whimsical touch to the bedroom decor. The guest bedroom provides a warm ambiance with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's Terra Mauve. It features a pair of 18th-century beds upholstered in Pierre Frey fabric, Gluckstein Home bed linens, and a Lattice Bone C-Table from Pier 1 Imports. Kedigian's home reflects his innovative use of color, texture, and a blend of design periods to create a distinctive and luxurious living environment. #InteriorDesign #MontrealTownhouse #DarkColors #GarrowKedigian #LuxuryHome #EclecticDesign #BenjaminMoore #VintageFurniture

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

This article details the transformation of a newly built holiday home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, designed to offer a tranquil escape for a busy family. The property, acquired during the Covid period, replaced an old fibro shack with a modern structure by InForm and Pleysier Perkins, featuring interiors curated by Bree Banfield. While the exterior of the house incorporates Japanese design influences with moody, geometric black charred screens, the interior design prioritizes a lighthearted, low-key, and family-friendly atmosphere, emphasizing comfort and serenity. The homeowner was actively involved in the design process, providing a detailed vision, which was then refined and elevated by interior designer Bree Banfield. Banfield praised the client's thoroughness, using the moodboards as a foundation for sourcing artwork and soft furnishings, in addition to advising on finishes. A core element of the interior scheme was the color palette, which began with Dulux Earth Warming on the pantry joinery. This established a foundation of warm, clay-based tones with peach hues, deliberately avoiding a purely Scandinavian aesthetic. Soft oranges and tints of green were layered throughout to enhance a summery feel and contribute to the overall earthy ambience. Upon entering through a Zen courtyard, visitors are greeted by a double-height, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. This expansive space is made cozy in cooler months by a fireplace. Located behind the living room is the children's wing, which includes a secondary living room, the main bathroom, and three bedrooms, one of which has an ensuite. The design team focused on creating a comfortable and durable environment, selecting high-quality, hard-wearing pieces, including solid timber furniture, to withstand the rigors of family life without appearing overly precious or pristine. Imperfections are embraced through textured materials and the deliberate avoidance of stark white surfaces. An L-shaped outdoor area complements the home’s interior, featuring an entertaining deck that connects to a dedicated health studio. This studio is equipped with an infrared sauna, an ice bath, and a Pilates reformer bed, catering to the family’s commitment to health and wellness. The initial plan for a single-level home was revised due to the irregular plot shape, leading to the addition of an upper floor. This second level houses the main suite, a cinema room, and a parents' retreat, offering private spaces within the larger home. The owner highlights that despite the house's size, careful design has created cozy and inviting spaces, fostering a sense of being on holiday and promoting a slower pace of life, leading them to consider making it their permanent residence. Banfield's primary challenge was to soften the modern architectural lines, which she achieved through strategic material choices. She introduced textural elements like a Tigmi rug to contrast with the existing terrazzo and used sconces, shapely lamps, and a custom crochet pendant by Hamimi to add warmth and character, moving beyond standard ceiling lights. Pattern was integrated through an armchair in the lounge and khaki-print wallpaper in a guest room, while textile artworks by various artists further enrich the walls. The overall design successfully fosters a calming environment that encourages relaxation and quality family time, fulfilling the owners’ desire for a peaceful retreat away from city life. #HolidayHomeDesign #ZenInspiredInteriors #MorningtonPeninsula #WabiSabiStyle #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FamilyFriendlyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #OutdoorLiving

This article explores the use of clerestory windows in residential architecture, highlighting eight distinct projects that demonstrate how these high-level glazed strips enhance natural light, privacy, and ventilation within home interiors. Clerestory windows, traditionally found in churches and cathedrals, are increasingly integrated into modern residential designs, positioned just beneath the roofline to maximize daylight penetration. The featured projects showcase diverse applications and aesthetic outcomes. In Australia, Architecture Architecture's 'Sunday' cottage extension in Melbourne incorporates large, translucent clerestory glazing above a mono-pitched roof, blending indoor and outdoor spaces with hollow breeze-blocks and drawing ample light into the home. Proctor & Shaw's 'Heath House' in north London, an extension to a Grade II-listed villa, uses clerestory glazing alongside floor-to-ceiling openings in its kitchen and dining areas to optimize natural light, complementing a material palette of wood and white brick. Denis Joelsons' renovation of 'Sítio Rio Acima' in Brazil, a residential complex near São Paulo, includes the addition of a vaulted ceiling with an arched clerestory window in the main home, which transforms into a luminous 'lantern at night.' In Fukushima, Japan, IGArchitects' 'Forest of Pillars' homes utilize a ring of clerestory windows beneath the roof to ensure privacy from surrounding properties while still allowing light to enter through their slender timber column frames. K59 Atelier's 'Di Linh House' in Vietnam, constructed with local rammed earth and timber, features a strip of clerestory glazing on its west facade positioned above smaller windows. This design strategically enhances privacy and provides effective sun shading in the remote location. Sam Crawford Architects' renovation of the 'Hidden Garden House' in Sydney, Australia, aims to brighten a previously dark interior. The ground floor kitchen features a concrete ceiling that curves upwards, coupled with operable clerestory windows, to draw in winter sun and offer shading. In Hyderabad, India, Kiron Cheerla Architecture designed 'Pott House' with a lantern-like roof that draws both light and natural ventilation into the timber-gridded home. The design centers around a full-height living and dining space beneath exposed timber trusses. Finally, IGArchitects' '2700' in Japan, a two-story home on a narrow plot, uses clerestory windows to increase privacy on the ground floor while simultaneously drawing light into its layered living spaces, defined by exposed concrete walls. These examples collectively illustrate the versatility and functional benefits of clerestory windows, demonstrating their capacity to transform residential spaces by providing optimal daylight, improving natural ventilation, and offering privacy solutions without compromising illumination. The article compiles these projects as visual inspiration from Dezeen's archives, emphasizing the architectural and interior design trends that leverage these specific glazing elements. #ClerestoryWindows #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeInteriors #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernHomes #ResidentialExtensions #PrivacySolutions #SustainableDesign

Architect Maxim Kashin designed a 980-square-foot addition to a Moscow house, drawing inspiration from Kazimir Malevich, the founder of Suprematism. The client's request was for a private recreational space dedicated to relaxation, escape from daily routine, and sky contemplation, essentially a suburban observatory. The structure, named the Yellow Pavilion, is constructed entirely from metal, featuring a welded-steel frame and sheathed, roofed, and furnished with metric rolled sheeting. Curved walls define the fluid interior zones, which include a seating area equipped with a serpentine built-in desk and a cylindrical alcove. This alcove is specifically designed for lounging beneath an oculus, offering an uninterrupted view of the sky. Additionally, the addition incorporates a bathroom with a shower and stacked laundry appliances. The laundry appliances are customized with a black-and-white geometric pattern, serving as a direct homage to Malevich's artistic style. A central feature and a strong nod to Malevich's work is the extensive use of yellow paint. This unifying color covers the walls, ceiling, concrete floor, and furniture, creating a cohesive and immersive environment. Kashin's design embodies a personal "model of the cosmos," a core concept in Suprematism, through the deliberate integration of function, shape, pattern, and color. The design transforms the addition into a tranquil retreat, offering the client a unique space for contemplation and relaxation. The Yellow Pavilion's aesthetic and conceptual foundation firmly link it to the early 20th-century art movement, providing a vibrant and reflective atmosphere. The structure's design also implies a connection to James Turrell's Skyspaces, suggesting an influence in creating spaces that frame the sky as an art form. The overall intent of the project was to create an environment that encourages introspection and a detachment from the mundane, aligning with both the client's desire for a private sanctuary and Kashin's artistic vision. #MaximKashin #Suprematism #Architecture #MoscowHome #InteriorDesign #YellowPavilion #KazimirMalevich #ModernArchitecture #ObservatoryDesign

This blog post showcases a Chestnut Hill home designed by Michelle Gage, known for its vibrant and saturated color palette. The homeowner, a writer and mother of two, expressed a clear preference for bold colors, art, and brass, which became the foundational elements for the home's interior design. The design process began with a specific request for a hot pink velvet sofa, setting the tone for the playful and colorful aesthetic that permeates the entire residence. A significant challenge addressed by Gage was the open-concept layout of the first floor. This design choice necessitated a careful approach to ensure that each area, while distinct, harmonized with the overall flow of the space. Gage achieved this by utilizing a range of vibrant but complementary hues, and by incorporating unifying elements such as art, rugs, and brass accents throughout the connecting rooms. In more self-contained spaces, such as the entryway, mudroom, and bathrooms, Gage intensified the whimsical feel by layering multiple patterns, a signature aspect of her design style. The kitchen area features blue cabinets and is further enhanced by apricot-hued island seating and a patterned window treatment created by Claudia Clobes Yudis of Urban Loft Design Studio. A brass credenza in the adjacent family room establishes a cohesive metallic theme with the kitchen. The dining area is furnished with an expandable round table crafted by Chad Barranco of Salvage Works in Downingtown, complemented by oxblood chairs. In the living room, the central hot pink velvet sofa was chosen for its durability, making it suitable for a household with children and a dog. This bold piece is balanced by a gray vintage rug and drapery that echo the kitchen's cabinet color. An Anthropologie throw pillow and a ceramic table, repurposed from a patio, add further personalized touches to the space. The entryway makes a strong first impression with a vibrant wallpaper that perfectly matches the existing floor tiles. This area also displays one of 25 art pieces selected by Gage and the homeowner from The Little Gallery in Chestnut Hill. The primary bedroom continues the home's colorful theme with lively wallpaper and a striking purple bed frame. Rounded wooden side tables soften the bed's strong color, and additional pillows from Anthropologie complete the room's inviting atmosphere. This article was originally published as “Color Me Happy” in the January/February 2021 issue of Philadelphia magazine. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorfulHomes #ChestnutHill #MichelleGage #OpenConcept #VibrantLiving #PhiladelphiaMagazine