Retroscena is a colourful apartment renovation by La Macchina Studio

La Macchina Studio, led by cofounders Gianni Puri and Enrica Siracusa, undertook the renovation of an 807-square-foot apartment in Rome, Italy, originally built in the 1950s. The project aimed to transform the space for a young couple, drawing inspiration from diverse artistic fields including cinema, painting, and illustration, citing influences ranging from the Sienese School and David Lynch to Katsumi Komagata and Prince. This eclectic approach informed the studio's design philosophy, focusing on creating a theatrical and surreal environment within the residential setting. The renovation involved the introduction of new materials to complement the existing structure. Botticino marble and brick red microcement were integrated throughout the apartment, providing a contemporary foundation. These materials were juxtaposed with bold color accents, such as a prominent blue arched door in the main living area. This door serves as a visual focal point and a transition point, leading into the bedroom and embodying the studio's desire to incorporate unexpected elements. A key design objective was to instill a sense of magic and playfulness into everyday living spaces. The architects achieved this by employing a strategy of color contrasts, graphic motifs, and deliberate “incursions” of surprising elements. The intention was to enhance the irreverent and surreal nature of the architectural narrative, making the apartment feel dynamic and engaging. This approach is evident in the selection of furnishings and decorative items. The living and dining areas feature a combination of classic and contemporary design pieces. Venetian terrazzo flooring forms a consistent base across these spaces. Furnishings include Mariolina chairs by Enzo Mari for Magis and a Tulip dining table by Eero Saarinen for Knoll. Lighting fixtures such as the Cirque by Louis Poulsen add to the curated ambiance. In the kitchen, Dioscuri 14 lamps by Artemide contribute to the functional yet stylish illumination. The classic blue arched door, made of lacquer wood, stands out as a signature element, reinforcing the playful design language. Further details within the apartment demonstrate the studio's comprehensive design vision. A Divano Goto sofa by Disegno Doppio and a Colonna stool by Ettore Sottsass for Kartell are placed in communal areas, alongside a painting created by La Macchina Studio itself. Another area features a Componibili side table by Anna Castelli Ferrieri for Kartell, a vintage chair from the 1950s, and an illustration titled “Birds” by Gianni Puri, highlighting his dual role as an architect and illustrator. The bedroom features brick red microcement flooring and a Bright Modeco 20 pendant by Nordic Tales, maintaining the cohesive material and color palette. In the bathroom, mosaic wall coverings in ceramic, light grey microcement flooring, and a Bonola 50 bathroom sink by Ceramica Flaminia complete the thoughtful renovation. #ApartmentRenovation #RomeDesign #LaMacchinaStudio #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #ColorContrast #ArchitecturalRenovation #PlayfulDesign #ItalianArchitecture

Architect Luki Anderson of Studio Officina undertook a significant renovation of a 1905 Clinton Hill duplex in Brooklyn. The clients, a couple with two children, sought a functional overhaul and a vibrant color palette, moving away from the home's original beige aesthetic. Anderson's initial assessment revealed the owners' existing affinity for color through their textiles and art, with the kitchen cabinets even being self-painted with colorful knobs as an early attempt to personalize the space. The primary goals for the renovation included expanding the kitchen and adding a third room to the lower garden level. The existing kitchen was found to be worn out and functionally inefficient. After exploring various layouts, Anderson devised a U-shaped kitchen configuration to maximize counter space and cabinetry, while keeping the sink and stove in their original positions. An unnecessary hallway behind the kitchen was re-purposed to expand the space, accommodating pantry cabinets, a refrigerator, and a coffee bar niche on the opposite wall. This design strategy ensured that the space felt open and avoided overwhelming the area with excessive cabinetry, creating a dedicated coffee or children's lunch preparation zone away from the main cooking area. The lower level of the duplex, which initially comprised two bedrooms and two bathrooms, was also part of the renovation. The previous layout was deemed inefficient, with an imbalance of space. Anderson reconfigured the bathrooms and enhanced the primary suite by adding a proper closet, replacing a wall of wardrobes. A key addition to this level was a flexible room designed to serve as both an office and a guest bedroom. This multi-functional space was equipped with custom-built storage, an integrated desk, and a Murphy bed to optimize its utility. Throughout the renovation, a strong emphasis was placed on integrating color, specifically the clients' preferred blue and green hues, alongside vibrant oranges and reds. This decision was influenced by Anderson's previous work, known for its colorful designs, despite her own home being predominantly white. The design incorporated colorful elements in various areas, such as orange-red triangle tiles and a floral wallpaper in the foyer, brightly painted Farrow & Ball's Pea Flower Tea kitchen cabinets, and a striking red Kappa tile backsplash in the kitchen niche. The children's bathroom features lively Rio Belize tile and Arctic White subway tile with custom white oak vanity and colorful zinc alloy pulls, while the kids' bedroom showcases a two-tone wall with Benjamin Moore's Baltimore Sky and Superwhite. In the primary suite, an almost black hue, Farrow & Ball's Railings, was combined with Benjamin Moore's Superwhite, and the bathroom boasts white and green wall tiles, alongside blue Pixel floor tiles. Anderson highlighted the importance of balancing these bold color choices with neutral tones at eye level to prevent the spaces from feeling overwhelming. This approach aimed to deliver a home that exuded joy and reflected the clients' desire for a colorful, personalized living environment. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRenovation #DuplexApartment #Brooklyn #BeforeAndAfter #StudioOfficina

The article details the renovation of Unit 622, an apartment located within Montreal's historic Habitat 67 housing complex. Designed by the interior and industrial design firm Rainville Sangaré, the project transformed the space into a bright, open, and modern home. The renovation focused on simple lines, material integrity, and a minimalist aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Brutalist architectural style of Habitat 67 itself. The original complex, conceived by Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie in the 1960s, aimed to provide affordable urban living through 158 stacked, prefabricated concrete units. Unit 622 features a unique T-shaped layout formed by two prefab blocks. A key aspect of the renovation involved preserving the concrete junction where these two volumes meet, leaving it exposed as an homage to the apartment's history, complete with original construction markings. The design choices were also influenced by Habitat 67's location on the Saint-Laurence River, particularly the challenging winter conditions. Rainville Sangaré opted for a minimal material and color palette, incorporating raw finishes like steel and concrete throughout the space to enhance the natural light and reflect the building's robust character. The living room features built-in shelves framing the window, and custom-made ventilation grids were installed, reflecting the owners' interest in local craft and design. A notable artistic element is a commissioned piece by local artist James Kennedy, mounted on a sliding door that conceals the television. The apartment is entirely outfitted with Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting, a collection inspired by Habitat 67's rectangular prefab blocks. The kitchen, designed for efficiency, was crafted by local brand À Hauteur d’homme. The guest room is designed for versatility, featuring a hideaway bed that allows the space to function as an office, also lit by Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting. The main bedroom is predominantly oak, with a custom-designed bed and nightstand, and also features lighting by Sangaré. Streamlined oak panels are used for the wardrobe. In contrast to the minimalist living areas, the bathrooms introduce color and intriguing finishes, including a dichroic glass shower divider that changes color under different lighting conditions. Concrete tiles in the bathrooms further reference the building's Brutalist origins. The renovation successfully marries contemporary design with the historical and architectural integrity of Habitat 67, creating a sophisticated and functional living space. #Habitat67 #MontrealRenovation #ModernApartment #BrutalistArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #PrefabHomes #RainvilleSangaré

Shapeless Studio, an architectural and design firm led by Jess Hinshaw and Andrea Fisk, recently completed a renovation of a one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. The project was unique due to the client's strong emphasis on paint color, initiating the design process with extensive discussions and trials of various shades before moving on to other design elements. The client, deeply invested in the details, meticulously evaluated over 20 pink paint samples, demonstrating a rare level of engagement in the selection process. The chosen primary color for the main living areas, including the living room, dining area, and kitchen, was Benjamin Moore’s Whispering Woods, a mauvy taupe selected for its ability to transform from a soft hue to a vibrant one under afternoon light. The decision to apply this color from floor to ceiling throughout the main space was embraced by the client, setting a distinctive tone for the apartment. The design philosophy for the apartment centered on creating a serene and sparse environment, where every object and color choice carried significant weight. This approach was driven by the client's preference for minimal clutter and a calm atmosphere. The renovation involved a full gut, with every decision, from material selections to lighting, being carefully considered. Lighting played a crucial role, with directional fixtures and a preference for table and floor lamps over harsh overhead lighting, aiming to create a soft, inviting ambiance suitable for reading. The color palette, beyond the walls, was intentionally restrained, featuring black and cream elements in sconces and lamps. A significant challenge and achievement in the project was the custom-designed sofa, which became the last major furniture piece acquired. The client's love for reading made the sofa a central element, requiring specific dimensions to fit the L-shaped room and align with the windowsill height. After evaluating over 40 options, a custom sofa was fabricated by Pierre Atelier, an upholsterer, ensuring comfort, tidiness, and a perfect match with the wall color through its cotton velvet fabric. The sofa's modular design allowed for easy assembly within the apartment, accommodating logistical constraints. The apartment's layout influenced the color scheme, with the south-facing living room and north-facing bedroom leading to distinct paint choices. While Whispering Woods defined the 'day' section, the 'night' section—the bedroom—was painted in Benjamin Moore’s Porch Swing, a cool shade of green and blue designed to evoke a moonlight effect and adapt dynamically to different weather conditions. The bathroom, lacking natural light, was given a fresh and clean feel with Benjamin Moore’s Balboa Mist in an eggshell finish, providing a gentle contrast to the rest of the apartment. Attention to detail extended to architectural elements, including a shadow line where the ceiling met the wall in the alcove desk area, providing subtle definition. Varying paint finishes were used, with a higher sheen on a strip between rooms to create a textural difference, despite being the same color. Custom-fabricated bathroom doors with Harmon hinges, fluted glass, and caning offered a sense of delineation without compromising light flow or openness, a detail Hinshaw particularly admired. Another notable design feature was the splayed jamb detail around the living room windows, created by building out the wall to hide an AC unit, which made the windows appear larger and allowed sunlight to spill gracefully into the space. The designers expressed their satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the client's influence in streamlining the design and creating a more open and integrated living area. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentRenovation #PaintColors #CustomFurniture #BrooklynHome #DesignInspiration #ShapelessStudio #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDetails

The article details the extensive two-and-a-half-year renovation of a 4,800-square-foot apartment on New York City’s Upper East Side by designer Denise Davies of D2 Interieurs. The project involved combining five separate apartments into one cohesive home for a family of five, a process fraught with challenges including a building fire and a flood. Despite these obstacles, the transformation resulted in a space characterized by whimsical wallpaper and custom furniture. The renovation began with a gutting of the existing structure, which involved removing most of the internal walls to create a more open concept. The original entrance, described as leading into a wall, was completely reconfigured. A notable design solution implemented throughout the apartment addresses the common issue of unsightly HVAC units. Davies cleverly integrated these units into functional pieces of furniture, such as window seats in the living room and kitchen, and a credenza in the dining room that offers additional storage. This innovative approach transformed a necessary but typically unattractive architectural element into a seamless and practical part of the interior design. Davies outlines her design process, emphasizing the importance of starting with "hard" materials like millwork, tile, and flooring, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, which are time-consuming and essential for liveability. Once these foundational elements are in place, the selection of "soft goods" begins. To achieve a unified aesthetic across the common areas—the living room, dining room, entryway, and kitchen—all walls were painted in the same neutral color, Ammonite by Farrow & Ball, facilitating a smooth visual flow. Additionally, the designer used a strategy of color reversal for the rugs in the family area and dining room, creating distinct yet harmonized zones. The design also incorporates a play of contrast, particularly in shapes, to soften the previously boxy structure resulting from the combination of multiple apartments. Curved furniture, rounded corners on the kitchen island and millwork, and soft textures like velvet armchairs and high-pile rugs were introduced to balance the straight lines. Practical storage solutions were also integrated, such as a custom built-in bench, mirror, and entry table in the formal entryway, concealing a spacious mudroom with large cabinets. A specific client request involved patterned curtain panels in the primary suite. Initially, the designer had reservations, fearing they might clash with the existing rug or disrupt the serene atmosphere. However, upon installation, the curtains were found to ground the entire room, demonstrating a successful collaborative outcome. The designer also recounts an instance where she had to scale back on her initial design for the kitchen island lighting, reducing three pendant lamps to two to prevent the space from feeling overcrowded, thereby maintaining balance and functionality within an apartment setting. #ApartmentRenovation #InteriorDesign #UpperEastSide #CustomFurniture #WhimsicalWallpaper #HVACS concealment #OpenConcept #DesignProcess #ColorPalette

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

This article explores various residential projects that effectively incorporate vibrant colours into their architectural and interior designs, moving beyond subtle accents to create impactful and transformative spaces. It showcases how architects leverage colour to enhance functionality, express individuality, and redefine living environments. The featured projects demonstrate a range of approaches to colour integration, from bold exterior statements to carefully curated interior palettes, highlighting both new builds and renovations across different geographical locations. The Maryland House in East London, designed by Remi Connolly-Taylor, exemplifies a contemporary approach to colour blocking. This live/work space, built on a previously derelict lot, utilizes London stock brick for its exterior, echoing the local Victorian and post-war housing. Despite its compact 100 sq m footprint, the interior is a "jewel box" of efficiency and minimalist aesthetics, with colour strategically used to define spaces. Similarly, Studio Ben Allen’s House Recast, a winner of London's 'Don’t Move, Improve' competition, stands out for its playfully colourful architecture, pushing boundaries in domestic design. Office S&M;'s Mo-tel House in Islington transformed a Victorian townhouse's lower ground floor into a vibrant space through bold colours and shapes. Block-coloured surfaces and tinted mirrors create a dynamic interior that visually expands the space, featuring bespoke joinery like blue kitchen cabinets, a pink and dark blue dining bench, and a light green ceiling. Alexander Owen Architecture's project on Amott Road further illustrates this trend in London's home improvements, demonstrating how unexpected designs and a sense of lightness are being brought to everyday living spaces. Moving to bolder applications, Villa Nilon in Zurich, a 1923 villa, was revitalized by Swiss studio ILAI with yellow and pink hues in bathrooms and hallways, complemented by monochrome patterned tiles. A green joinery kitchen and original stained glass windows contribute to a playful character, with architects also opening up spaces for natural light and generosity. The Blue Building by LOT in Bushwick, Brooklyn, makes a striking statement with its entirely blue exterior, inspired by the studio's previous design work. Inside, translucent panels and walls in white, light pink, and green balance the exterior's boldness. Isla Architects' Lover's House in Mallorca features a warm terracotta-pink concrete exterior, reminiscent of Luis Barragán's work, which deeply connects the structure to its natural landscape while maintaining a graphic, contemporary feel. CAN Architects' Mountain View House in South London, home to practice founder Mat Barnes, showcases a radical makeover with bold colours, unusual details, and a staged mountain scenery roofline, drawing inspiration from diverse sources like Hi-Tech style and fashion shows. The Andi in Boston, reimagined by Patrick Planeta, uses bold coloured fabrics and saffron-coloured lighting to add character to a minimalist concrete apartment, with drapes creating intimate "pods" and curated artworks enhancing the space's concept. Project Hereward by Studio VA in London demonstrates how a compact renovation can achieve impactful design through the right blend of colour, sleek lines, and industrial materials, balancing old and new elements. In the realm of pastels, Dedraft's AR Residence in Walthamstow features an avocado green extension for an illustrator and librarian, with a matte green aluminium panelled addition housing interiors with muted tones and pops of brighter colours in specific areas. Jonathan Tuckey Design’s Upper Wimpole project in central London integrates refined, craft-rich joinery elements in varying colours to differentiate rooms while maintaining a coherent design. Lastly, Jerome Byron’s Monon Guesthouse in Los Angeles, a wooden structure nestled in a hillside garden, and Barlow & Barlow’s Albion Street project in London, blending Swedish and English heritage with a chic pastel palette, further highlight the diverse applications of colour in residential architecture. #ResidentialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ColourfulHomes #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #LondonArchitecture #ModernLiving #SpaceTransformation #PastelInteriors

This article highlights the transformative power of strategic interior design through the case study of a Brooklyn apartment. Initially, the apartment suffered from a bland aesthetic, characterized by a generic kitchen, plain white walls, and an uninspired entrance. The renovation aimed to infuse character and sophistication into the space, demonstrating how thoughtful design choices can significantly impact the living environment. The kitchen, which originally felt dark and small due to its wooden cabinets, underwent a significant overhaul. Designers opted to replace the dark upper cabinets with sleek white ones. This change not only brightened the room but also created an illusion of greater height and offered enhanced storage capacity, as the new cabinets were taller than their predecessors. The choice of lighter materials extended to the countertops, where a low-maintenance quartz was installed, replacing a darker alternative. A Carrara marble backsplash was incorporated to unify the design, adding a touch of elegance. A notable aspect of the kitchen renovation was the ability to retain the existing stainless steel appliances, which, against the backdrop of the new, lighter finishes, gained a renewed visual prominence. Beyond the aesthetic upgrades, the kitchen's lighting scheme was completely rethought. Recessed lighting was introduced to provide overall illumination, complemented by two oversized pendant lights positioned above the island, serving as both functional and decorative elements. Under-cabinet lighting was also installed, effectively transforming the space from a dim and uninteresting area into a luminous and sophisticated one. The renovation efforts were not confined to the kitchen; the hallway also received considerable attention. Prior to the makeover, the hallway was described as lacking personality, featuring plain walls and doors. To create a more intimate and welcoming atmosphere, designers strategically lowered the ceiling by a couple of feet. This adjustment, combined with the addition of pendant lighting, imparted a cozier and warmer feel to the corridor. Further details were added to the doors through the application of trim and a coat of dark gray paint, which enriched their appearance. An accent wall was introduced, featuring a wallpaper with a subtle yet intricate design, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. To complete the transformation, a bold runner was laid on the floor, injecting a vibrant pop of color and defining the pathway. #ApartmentMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #KitchenDesign #HallwayDecor #BrooklynApartment #SweetenDesign #ModernHome #HomeDecor

Jojo Barr, founder of House Nine, details the renovation process of the living room in her new rural home, a project undertaken after she moved from London to the countryside. The living room serves as a sanctuary and the first room visitors encounter, located directly off the entrance hall. Despite being the darkest area of the house, receiving morning sunlight only until 10 am, its view of the valley makes it an ideal spot for relaxation. Barr anticipates that this room will eventually become a 'snug' once the ground floor is converted into an open-plan living space. The living room, a 5m x 5m square room with a working fireplace, required only cosmetic upgrades as its structure was sound. A key challenge was integrating the television. Barr typically advises against wall-mounting TVs but found it unavoidable due to the room's layout, ultimately placing a Samsung Frame TV above the mantle. She highlights the aesthetic appeal of the Frame TV, which displays artwork when not in use, and cautions about ensuring adequate heat protection in the chimney breast to prevent damage to electronics. Lighting presented another compromise for Barr, who prefers not to use downlights unless task-specific. However, the low ceiling necessitated their use, preventing the installation of a central pendant. Curtains were a significant point of contention; Barr strongly advocates for floor-length curtains, or those that 'kiss' the floor, contrary to the short curtains found in the room initially. She dispels the notion that short curtains are designed to facilitate heat circulation from radiators, arguing that long, lined, and interlined curtains are more effective at retaining warmth. For tricky window designs where floor-length curtains are impractical, Roman blinds, either sheer for privacy or blackout for total darkness, are recommended alternatives, with French café curtains being the sole exception to her rule against short coverings. The design objective for the living room was to create an effortless, comfortable, and warm environment suitable for both family relaxation and entertaining. Barr replaced the existing beige carpet with an engineered oak, white-washed floor from Chaunceys Timber, a bold choice that brightened the room. A woven jute rug was added to enhance comfort. The old bookcase cabinet and fireplace were retained and repainted. The room's character was further developed through the addition of tongue and groove to the ceiling and half-height wall panelling. The chosen color scheme is neutral and warm, complemented by earthy textures and autumnal accents, low-level lighting, vintage pieces, and unique finds. Comfort is prioritized, with a House Nine-designed sofa and ottoman featuring plump cushions to invite relaxation. Barr emphasizes a relaxed approach to her interiors, aiming for guests to feel at ease.

Gon architects have transformed Casa Flix, a 42-square-meter attic apartment in Madrid's city center, into a flexible, light-filled urban home. Located on the sixth floor of a historic 1900 building near Calleo square, the renovation addressed the challenges of a compact space with a sloped roof and unconventional layout, aiming to maximize space, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The original two-room layout was reconfigured into four distinct, yet visually connected, areas: a bedroom/dressing area, an entrance, a workspace/bathroom, and a kitchen/living/dining room. The apartment's entrance, designed to evoke a ship's interior, features a blue tunnel, a metal shelf, and a circular window, creating a unique transitional space. The central bathroom separates the sink and toilet from the shower, utilizing mirrored panels to conceal plumbing and expand the perceived space through reflections. A glass block wall in the shower ensures privacy while allowing natural light to penetrate. The workspace includes a triangular desk against a green partial wall, complemented by an orange Moustache chair. The kitchen area features pale yellow cabinets running along the higher end of the sloped ceiling, providing storage for kitchen essentials, cleaning products, and even the owner’s clothes. A vibrant blue dining table is positioned beneath the lower part of the ceiling. To enhance natural light and ventilation, additional skylights were installed in the bedroom and living room, creating an airy atmosphere. A transparent glass door at the entrance further contributes to the apartment's openness, allowing light to flow throughout. At night, the glass-blocked shower illuminates, casting a soft glow across the entire apartment. While most of the apartment features a mix of bold colors and white surfaces, the bedroom maintains a serene, minimalist aesthetic by being completely void of vibrant hues. The exterior of the building, with its small, open terrace offering views of tiled rooftops, complements the modern interior. The renovation successfully transformed a drab attic into a dynamic, colorful, and highly functional living space, emphasizing smart design solutions for small urban dwellings. The project highlights the potential for innovative design to revitalize historic spaces, creating contemporary homes that embrace both aesthetic appeal and practical living. #AtticRenovation #MadridArchitecture #ColorfulInterior #SmallSpaceDesign #UrbanLiving #GonArchitects #ModernApartment #ResidentialDesign #InteriorTransformation

This blog post details the extensive renovation of a St. Louis residence by Ferguson & Shamamian Architects, with interior design by Brittany Bromley. The project involved updating a house originally designed by founding partner Mark Ferguson in 1998, with Damian Samora leading the renovation. Samora's challenge was to respect the home's traditional architecture while incorporating modern elements suitable for the new owners and their three teenagers. The renovation included a significant 3,000-square-foot addition comprising a garage, gym, mudroom, and covered terrace, alongside a 1,300-square-foot pool house. Bromley's involvement introduced a more lighthearted design approach, evident in her material and color choices. A notable transformation was the former garage into a cozy family room off the kitchen, where the ceiling was raised, a large fireplace was added, and tall windows were installed. Bromley infused warmth into this space with brass accents, a parchment-hued woven wallcovering, and rich velvet fabrics in ochre and olive, drawing inspiration from a Robert Motherwell abstract painting. The design was particularly mindful of family living, with the dining room featuring a hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper complemented by wipeable leather chair fabric and an abaca rug, balancing elegance with practicality. The living room saw its pine paneling updated with a serene blue strié glaze finish, described as fresh, bright, and youthful, aligning with the homeowners' contemporary lifestyle. This playful aesthetic extends to the breakfast room, which incorporates treillage detailing on mercury glass, creating a chic garden folly ambiance. The home's overarching theme is an exuberant color palette, combining bold hues like aubergine with chartreuse and persimmon with teal, harmonized by softer shades of cream, peach, and Swedish blue. The furnishings consist of a mix of custom-designed pieces, antiques, and vintage finds, all carefully integrated with the clients' extensive art collection, which served as a central element for many room layouts and color schemes. This approach ensured that the spaces authentically reflected the family's personalities and created a lived-in feel from the outset. Specific areas of the home are highlighted, such as the entry with its diamond-patterned floors by Mary Meade Evans, a Brunschwig & Fils wallcovering, and a Bennison Fabrics-covered settee, all harmonizing with a Helen Frankenthaler painting. The living room's blue strié glaze finish provides a backdrop for a Henri Matisse piece, influencing the room's vibrant blue, orange, and green textiles and decor. The dining room features a de Gournay wallcovering, a Patterson Flynn abaca rug, and Holland & Sherry leather upholstery. The breakfast room's treillage in Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray, a Casa Gusto china cabinet, and a Soane ceiling light create a bright space. The kitchen showcases Calacatta Monet marble, cerused oak, and brass accents. The mudroom hallway offers practical yet stylish storage with Benjamin Moore’s Polaris Blue lacquered lockers and Urban Electric Co. pendant lights, while the primary bedroom features a Cowtan & Tout wallcovering and Schweitzer Linen bedding. The primary bathroom glows with amber hues from Holland & Sherry wallcovering, Ann Sacks marble tiles, and a Waterworks bathtub. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #StLouisHome #ColorfulPalette #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #CustomDesign #ArtIntegration

The article details the transformation of a neglected 1950s California ranch house, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, into a modern family home. This extensive renovation was undertaken by Studio Muka, a design firm founded by Zabie Mustafa and Neda Kakhsaz. The clients, Amir Kakhsaz and Raphaëlle Durand, both professionals in Silicon Valley with two sons, sought a home that could accommodate their active lifestyle and connect with the surrounding landscape. The property initially presented significant challenges, but the designers approached the project with a clear vision. They reconfigured and expanded the original layout, including relocating the staircase to improve the flow between rooms. The renovation also added an office for Raphaëlle Durand and four new bedrooms, significantly increasing the home's functionality and capacity for extended family visits. The design philosophy centered on an earthy color palette, intentionally chosen to integrate the interiors with the lush natural environment of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Key design elements and furnishings contribute to the home's refreshed aesthetic. The living room, for instance, features a muddy green plaster from Bauwerk Colour, reflecting the external landscape. It is furnished with an Arflex sofa designed by Mario Marenco from the 1970s, a custom cocktail table, a vintage blue lounge chair by Vico Magistretti, and vintage zinc table lamps by Ron Rezek. The kitchen showcases reclaimed terra-cotta tiles from Durand’s 16th-century family home in Normandy, providing a unique historical touch and warmth to the space. The eldest son’s bedroom includes a Roman shade from Smith & Noble, a 1950s Pierre Guariche Tulip chair, and a custom desk inspired by Donald Judd, complemented by a 1950s table lamp by Gilardi & Barzaghi. Mustafa, who previously worked at Workshop/APD, and Neda, formerly with Studio Shamshiri, brought their combined experience to create a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The clients expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, noting that every space in the house is now utilized effectively, exceeding their initial expectations. The renovation successfully transformed a dated structure into a vibrant and comfortable family residence, deeply connected to its Californian setting. #CaliforniaRanch #HomeRenovation #StudioMuka #InteriorDesign #EarthyPalette #MidCenturyFurniture #SantaCruzMountains #FamilyHome

This article details the transformation of a 4,100-square-foot penthouse on Commonwealth Avenue in Back Bay, Boston, owned by Savannah and Henry Helgeson. The Helgesons purchased the unit in 2012, attracted by its ideal location—a block from Newbury Street and within walking distance of the Public Garden and Esplanade—and its two-floor layout with a private elevator, which was a more manageable alternative to their previous five-story South End walkup. However, the penthouse presented several challenges, including an awkward master suite and an outdated kitchen. The couple lived in the unit for a year with the previous owner's furnishings to fully understand its deficiencies before embarking on a major renovation. They enlisted the expertise of interior designer Nicole Hogarty with clear objectives: to open up the master suite, completely gut and redesign the kitchen, and optimize every square inch for functionality. Hogarty was inspired by Savannah's warm and inviting personality, aiming to create a home that mirrored this generous spirit, as the existing space lacked the elegance required for both entertaining and relaxation. Collaborating with Venegas and Company, Woodbourne Builders, and C & R Flooring, Hogarty oversaw a comprehensive kitchen renovation. This included installing tall Premier cabinets for enhanced storage, applying a custom stain to the existing oak floor to infuse warmth, and incorporating a wet bar that cleverly doubles as a breakfast bar. The living room received custom-designed large window seats, providing comfortable spots for the couple and their two dachshunds, Roscoe and Molly, to enjoy. In the master suite, Hogarty reconfigured two small closets into a single, spacious one. She also merged four awkward spaces to create an open, spa-like bathroom, which features a steam shower designed to accommodate Henry's height, his-and-hers Savoy sinks from Waterworks, and a large, squared-off tub. The bathroom's aesthetic was further elevated with Waterworks "Basketweave" tiles made from Thassos and Carrara marbles for the floor and shower walls. Hogarty adhered to Savannah's preference for a neutral color palette, predominantly using grays to establish a serene backdrop. This allowed for the introduction of rich textured details, such as a pieced-cowhide rug from Landry & Arcari, Parsons dining chairs from Restoration Hardware upholstered in Galbraith & Paul “Lotus” fabric, and an Edward Ferrell + Lewis Mittman sofa in Holly Hunt “Great Plains” mohair. The Helgesons' personal touches are evident throughout, with some artwork reflecting their travels, like a reproduction map of Paris from Restoration Hardware. The couple's passion for aviation is showcased through a custom bookshelf designed to display Henry's collection. To complement their growing art collection, the team worked with Jules Place, a South End gallery, to incorporate vibrant, eclectic pieces, including floral photographs by local artist Debby Krim and Karole Moe’s "Orange Wave" acrylic. A central feature of the renovation, and Hogarty's pièce de résistance, is a sculptural, floor-to-ceiling wine cellar. This design element was inspired by the Helgesons' annual trips to Napa and their frequent in-home sommelier-led wine tastings. The cellar, capable of housing several hundred bottles, is prominently positioned as the first thing guests see upon exiting the private elevator, serving as a significant conversation starter. Beyond the wine cellar, other subtle yet elegant details include an antiqued-glass backsplash behind the kitchen's wet bar and an oversized A. Rudin custom sectional sofa. This sectional was specifically designed with added length and lumbar support for Henry, upholstered in velvet with silk paisley pillows, enhancing both daily comfort and evening sophistication. Hogarty emphasized the versatility of the living space, noting its ability to comfortably host anywhere from two to twenty people, allowing the couple to relax informally or entertain formally. Original architectural elements, such as ebony and marble inlays and crown molding, were meticulously preserved to maintain the building's historical integrity. Additional design choices include Phillip Jeffries "Quartz" wallpaper that mimics stone veneer behind the custom wine rack and Kravet leather-wrapped dining room doors adorned with polished-nickel studs from Nanz, all contributing to the blend of modern elegance and historical charm. #HomeDesign #LuxuryPenthouse #BackBayBoston #InteriorRenovation #ModernLiving #CustomDesign #WineCellar #SpaBathroom #ElegantInteriors

Butterfly Studio, led by architects Anna Baranowska and Joanna Felczuk, redesigned an 84-square-meter apartment in Kraków, Poland, for a young couple who wanted a home that reflected their appreciation for vibrant colors and retro aesthetics while maintaining practicality. The renovation involved a significant layout change, where one room was eliminated to create a larger, more open living area. This alteration allowed for a spacious L-shaped sofa and an extendable dining table, catering to the couple's social lifestyle and need for flexible space. The kitchen was also reconfigured to function as a central gathering point, featuring a custom island with integrated storage, departing from traditional bar seating. The apartment's design prominently incorporates a diverse color palette, with shades of green, rust, blue, and burgundy used across various surfaces. These colors are complemented by a mix of textures and graphic elements, such as a checkered rug and patterned entry tiles, which add visual interest and depth to the interior. Lighting fixtures are not merely functional but also contribute sculpturally to the design, with pendant lamps illuminating the sofa area and artistic fixtures adorning the hallway. The entryway establishes the apartment's distinctive style, featuring a burgundy built-in wardrobe and a curved bench that serves both as a decorative element and practical seating. Geometric patterns are a recurring motif throughout the space, evident in the softly curved kitchen island and the rounded media cabinet, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic across different rooms. One of the initial challenges of the apartment was a long, awkward hallway, which Butterfly Studio transformed into a striking design feature. The hallway now boasts playful wall sconces that cast abstract reflections, intricate millwork in muted tones that add texture, and a dark anthracite accent wall that provides contrast, giving the corridor its own unique character and dynamism. In the bedroom, a calming atmosphere is achieved through green walls and a terracotta-colored ceiling, creating a warm and inviting sanctuary. A custom-designed headboard incorporates a built-in vanity on one side, maximizing functionality within the space. The apartment includes two bathrooms, each with its own distinct personality. One bathroom features earthy tones with terracotta tiles and concrete-like plaster, while the other makes a bolder statement with burgundy floors, denim-toned cabinetry, and cool blue tiles. Both bathrooms integrate clever storage solutions, such as a woven-front laundry unit, to maintain a clean and uncluttered appearance. The overall design successfully blends vibrant retro elements with modern functionality, creating a unique and livable space. #InteriorDesign #RetroDesign #KrakowApartment #ButterflyStudio #ColorfulInteriors #FunctionalDesign #ModernLiving #HomeDecor

The article details the transformation of a 2300-square-foot penthouse apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, from a clinical, industrial space into a whimsical and functional family home. Keren Richter, co-founder of interior design studio White Arrow, led the redesign, prioritizing the tastes and needs of the clients' three young children. The project focused on softening the apartment's original hard-edged and high-contrast finishes to create a more playful and inviting environment for the family. One of the most notable features of the redesign is the kitchen. Richter expressed her particular fondness for this space, highlighting the custom cabinetry crafted from bleached maple. This choice provides a light and natural base, which is then complemented by aluminum cast hardware from Australian designer Studio Henry Wilson. A striking element is the refreshing green Calacatta turquoise marble used for the countertops and backsplash, creating a vibrant contrast with the playful powder pink kitchen cabinets. The kitchen also incorporates whimsical decor, such as abstract modern bar stools by Jack Rabbit Studio, and existing artwork from the client, all contributing to a balanced and uplifting aesthetic. Despite adopting some minimalist principles, such as built-in storage to conceal clutter, the space retains warmth and visual interest through its material and color palette, demonstrating that extensive decoration is not always necessary when materials speak for themselves. Contrasting with the lower floors, the top floor of the duplex was designed with cooler tones and a more pared-back aesthetic. The dining room, for instance, features sleek wood surfaces and mid-century modern furniture. Abstract elements are woven throughout, from a uniquely based dining table to an abstract midcentury pendant light, maintaining a visually engaging yet minimally decorated space. The design incorporates materials like chrome, mirror, hand-blown glass, and bleached maple, alongside bold Calacatta turquoise marble and cast aluminum hardware, to create a sophisticated atmosphere. Playful touches, such as a pink console, wavy candleholders, and angular lighting, are strategically placed to echo the home's overall whimsical theme without overwhelming the refined design. The living room provides a plush and inviting atmosphere, featuring a large powder-blue sofa and quilted modern armchairs that blend contemporary style with family-friendly comfort and practicality. The careful use of pastel colors and a colorful abstract rug adds playfulness without being overwhelming, balanced by a sleek chrome coffee table. This space exemplifies the fusion of sophistication with accessibility for children. In the master bedroom, the concept of softness is particularly evident. A cloud-like wall mural creates an airy and relaxing ambiance, ideal for a sleep space. While pink dominates the color scheme, it is balanced by neutral decor, including a boucle bed frame and a warm-toned geometric rug, preventing the room from appearing overly saccharine. A delicate chandelier adds an extra layer of sophistication, complementing the room's soft elements. Subtle gold accents and art pieces contribute to a luxurious, retreat-like feel. Throughout the home, the designers incorporated a refreshing and calming palette, contemporary art, unique wallpapers, locally made design pieces, and a mix of reflective 70s Italian lighting and furniture, seamlessly integrating custom White Arrow-designed elements. Wood, specifically white oak, is used extensively throughout the home to provide a refined yet durable finish capable of withstanding years of family life. Custom white oak features include a primary closet, a connecting staircase with curved detailing, and refinished floors. The design also incorporated curves in architectural details like window wells and maximized storage solutions to accommodate the active family's needs. The children's rooms on the lower floors feature more saturated colors and patterns, including an immersive scenic mural, hand-drawn wallpapers, and graphic rugs and window coverings, creating playful and intricate spaces that are balanced by abstract colorful rugs and curved wood furniture. The nursery, for example, combines a wood cot, a blue rug, an armchair, and polka-dot wallpaper with framed prints, reflecting a thoughtful blend of functional design and cheerful aesthetics suitable for young occupants. #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #BrooklynApartment #HomeRenovation #WhimsicalDecor #ModernDesign #ColorPalette #CustomCabinetry #SpacePlanning

The 2024 Real Simple Home, a renovated 1890s brownstone, showcases a variety of innovative decorating trends and design ideas. The design team, including The Brownstone Boys (Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum), Alexandra Burr of AlexAllen Studio, Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis and Nest Studio, Amber Guyton of Blessed Little Bungalow, Jasmine Roth, Kate Pearce of Kate Pearce Vintage, Mikel Welch of Mikel Welch Design, and Hema Persad of Sagrada Studio, collaborated to infuse historical charm with contemporary elements. One prominent trend is the use of bold-veined marble in the kitchen. Two distinct types of marble are used for the backsplash and countertops, creating a visually interesting contrast while harmonizing with the home's original features. This approach highlights the richness of the marble against neutral tones, ensuring the original floors, woodwork, and fireplace remain focal points. The brownstone features a top-floor den designed for relaxation and versatile family use. This space functions as a quiet reading nook, a movie-watching area, or a game room, emphasizing comfort and playfulness. The concept demonstrates that dens can be successfully integrated into various parts of a home, providing a cozy retreat for different activities. Another striking design choice is wallpapered ceilings. This modern application of wallpaper shifts the decorative focus upward, offering a unique visual element. Designers can use complementary colors for contrast or a monochromatic approach to create a cohesive look. The article highlights its potential in bedrooms and laundry rooms, suggesting it adds an unexpected layer of design. Curved furniture is also a significant trend, replacing traditional straight lines with more fluid shapes. This design choice enhances the open flow of a room and prevents harsh lines, as demonstrated in the living and dining areas of the brownstone. Examples include curved upholstered bed frames and round coffee tables, contributing to a softer, more inviting aesthetic. Suspended bedside lighting offers a functional and stylish alternative to traditional table lamps. This trend frees up nightstand space for decor while creating a moody, accessible light source. The article suggests this approach can brighten a room effectively while adding an element of sophistication. Marshmallow couches, characterized by their comfortable, channeled silhouette, prioritize both luxury and comfort. Bouclé fabric is noted as a popular pairing, adding texture and ensuring the pieces remain relevant. This design choice emphasizes deep seating and supportive backrests, making them ideal for relaxation. Convex mirrors are used creatively to balance sharp architectural features, such as fireplaces. These circular mirrors, once common in commercial settings, now serve as artistic decor, offering a full perspective of a room and contributing to the curved decor trend. This application adds visual interest and a unique touch to interior spaces. Scalloped borders introduce a whimsical and playful feel, particularly suited for children's rooms. The article describes how these borders, reminiscent of clouds, can be combined with bold wall colors to create a storybook-like atmosphere. Beyond children's rooms, scalloped borders can also be applied in bathrooms or hallways for an added touch of charm. Finally, color drenching involves using various shades of a single color throughout a room to create a unified and immersive effect. In the brownstone's secondary bedroom, different brown hues are layered, with decorative pieces introducing subtle patterns and additional colors. This technique allows for a cohesive design while still incorporating diverse elements. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends #RealSimpleHome #BrownstoneRenovation #MarbleKitchen #CurvedFurniture #WallpaperedCeilings #ColorDrenching