Home Design: ‘Haven’ on Earth

The "Tierra Tulum Project," a newly finished four-bedroom residence in Holmes Beach, combines coastal comfort with an earthy, boho-modern aesthetic. The home was designed by Emily Moss Designs for a couple with a growing real estate portfolio who enjoy travel. It was inspired by their recent trip to Tulum and was built with the flexibility to serve as a primary residence, a vacation getaway, or a rental property. The design incorporates limewashed walls, arched ceilings, and various layered textures to evoke a boutique hotel atmosphere. Engineered hardwood floors provide both durability and warmth throughout the interior. Natural materials are prominently featured in the home's design to ground its airy color scheme. Walnut beams add a touch of organic warmth, and Ulite rock formations surround the resort-style pool, seamlessly integrating the outdoor and indoor aesthetics. The primary suite is a focal point, with double sliders that open to expansive views of the pool and the adjacent beach. An air vent, which initially posed a design challenge, was ingeniously transformed into a built-in feature, mirroring the custom millwork found in the living room and enhancing design coherence. The primary bathroom further showcases sophisticated design with a floating vanity and a freestanding tub encased in stone, reflecting a meticulous attention to detail and material selection. Among the home's various distinctive spaces, the office stands out due to its rich color palette and architectural ceiling. This area is distinguished by a pre-lit niche wall that features arched alcoves of differing shapes and sizes, adding visual depth and character. The use of blue limewash walls and artwork from Uttermost contributes to the office's striking and cohesive tonal drenching. This space exemplifies the thoughtful layering of design elements that makes each part of the home unique and memorable. The kitchen is designed with visual continuity, featuring a subtly paint-dipped island that echoes the hue used in the adjacent laundry room. A handcrafted blue Zellige tile backsplash provides additional depth and ties into the island’s color, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment. The living room on the first floor incorporates a soft pale blue limewash accent wall, contributing a coastal touch, while an arrangement of rattan pendant lights overhead introduces a natural, earthy feel and serves as a striking focal point. The dining room, which overlooks the living room, maintains consistency with neutral tones in its flooring, table, and chairs. The pool area, designed by Tom Sanger Pools, is characterized by Miami Pebble and Ulite rock formations, with nearby rocks subtly repeating the stone details from the primary bath, reinforcing a cohesive design narrative throughout the property. #EmilyMossDesigns #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BohoModern #CoastalLiving #TulumInspired #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign

Mandy Drew, an interior designer, implemented her philosophy of elevated design in her own primary residence, creating a sophisticated, timeless, yet contemporary living space. The 5,500-square-foot home, located in Tampa, Florida, underwent a renovation that began in 2020 and concluded in 2022. The two-story house features five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, exuding an aura of opulence and boldness. Drew, alongside her husband, two children, and three golden doodles, aimed to balance aesthetic appeal with practical family needs. The renovation process was particularly challenging as it coincided with the end of the pandemic, during which Drew was also managing four other construction and renovation projects. She drew inspiration from numerous homes, integrating various elements to create unique and cohesive rooms throughout her residence. The design predominantly utilizes a neutral color palette, accented with stark contrasts of black and white, and bold, masculine touches. A prominent feature is the extensive use of marble, which is present in all bathrooms and the kitchen, contributing to the luxurious feel of the home. Drew's personal style is characterized by polished grandeur and elegance, subtly incorporating neoclassical elements. While the color scheme is largely restrained, deliberate splashes of color are introduced, such as lush greenery found throughout the home, complemented by green living room curtains, and a soft pink vanity in a shared bathroom. Black, white, and gold are consistently used as dominant elements, contributing to a harmonious and sophisticated ambiance. Drew describes the overall style as transitional, emphasizing its timeless and classic qualities. Key areas within the home highlight this design approach. The living room seamlessly connects to an open-concept kitchen, allowing ample natural light to flood the space. A spectacular bar at one end of the living room is designed for entertaining guests. Dark masculine elements in these areas are harmoniously balanced with bright whites and soft neutrals, creating a well-rounded and inviting atmosphere. The master bedroom features a custom corner couch, perfect for reading or relaxation, bathed in natural light. An ornate fireplace in the master bedroom adds a sense of grandeur and warmth, with dark tones on the fireplace itself, mirrors, and seating contrasting with modern, sleek white lines that transition smoothly into the flooring. The strategic placement of greenery throughout the room further enhances the living environment, striking a balance between classic and modern aesthetics.

This article highlights a brand-new, two-story, six-bedroom, 7.5-bath property with 7,416 square feet of living space, designed by Emily White and Kristy Craig Anderson of Dwell Home Staging and Market. The home, built by Halo Homes, is a contemporary new build that served as an ideal canvas for a "livable luxe" design, characterized by a vast open floor plan, sleek iron and glass details, and custom wood cabinets and flooring. The primary goal of the interior design was to create a quiet, minimal, and luxurious feel, while also tempering the sleek architectural elements and high ceilings with soft textures and organic details to ground the space. The designers achieved a modern, organic vibe using a color palette of crisp whites, creamy taupes, and tans, accented with contrasting black and charcoal elements. A key design principle was to ensure that the furniture and decor played a supporting role, allowing the coveted Davis Islands waterfront view to remain the focal point of the property. The living room, for instance, features on-trend curved boucle accent chairs, which introduce a soft element that mirrors the curved lines of the arched doorways and dining room chairs. These dining chairs are also designed to swivel, offering optimal views for television watching. The living room's design is anchored by a down-filled sectional in a fresh off-white performance fabric from Dwell Home Market, chosen for its versatility in accommodating both upscale entertaining and family movie nights. The property's exterior amenities emphasize its prime waterfront location. It includes a designer saltwater pool, an outdoor kitchen, and a private dock, all strategically positioned to face the waterfront. The deep-water dockage is specifically highlighted as a desirable feature for yacht owners. The home is situated on one of Davis Islands' most sought-after streets, and its design maximizes the surrounding natural beauty. Sweeping bay views are visible from nearly every massive window throughout the residence, ensuring that the scenic environment is an integral part of the home's aesthetic.

This article delves into the design of a modern cabin home in Istanbul's Kemer Country, Göktürk, focusing on its seamless integration with the natural forest environment. The homeowner's primary brief to the Istanbul-based studio, Escapefromsofa, was to create a contemporary, comfortable, and practical living space that effortlessly blended both aesthetically and functionally with its rural surroundings. The design team, comprising architect Mahmut Kefel, interior architect Kerem Erçin, and interior designer İrem Başer, aimed to make the home feel like a natural extension of the woodlands, emphasizing an indoor-outdoor living concept. A significant challenge for the design team was to construct a modern home that not only harmonized with the natural landscape but also possessed a timeless presence. This involved carefully selecting materials and finishes that would age gracefully, contributing to a sense of history and continuity. To address this, the team prioritized natural and sustainable materials that would blend with the environment. For the exterior, specific materials were chosen to ensure the house looked as if it had always been a part of the landscape, creating an evolving narrative over time. Inside, the use of natural materials such as wood and stone was crucial, with their organic textures and colors chosen to complement the outdoor scenery. Wooden beams and flooring, alongside stone accents, contributed to a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance. The interior color palette was another critical element in achieving the desired blend. The designers opted for earthy, muted tones enriched with elegant touches and various textures, all mirroring the natural beauty of the surrounding forest. The architectural design further enhanced the connection to nature through high ceilings and large windows, which were strategically incorporated to invite ample natural light and outdoor views into the living spaces. These design choices fostered a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making the home feel immersed in the forest. Furniture placement and open-plan layouts were carefully planned to direct attention towards the windows and the expansive vistas beyond. This ensured that sightlines remained unobstructed, encouraging residents to engage with the natural beauty outside. A highlight for the Escapefromsofa team was the open-plan downstairs living area. They found particular enjoyment in combining high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, which created a striking architectural feature and added rustic charm. The integration of the living room and kitchen into a single fluid space promoted a seamless flow, making it ideal for socializing and entertaining. Warm wooden tones were consistently used throughout the kitchen cabinetry and flooring to maintain a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. The project successfully met its initial objective, delivering a home that is both welcoming and cozy, yet chic and sophisticated. The final design stands as a tribute to its beautiful natural surroundings, embodying the philosophy that the home should be an integral part of its environment. The design choices underscore a commitment to creating a living space that feels naturally evolved and deeply connected to nature, reflecting a modern lifestyle within a harmonious, organic setting. #InteriorDesign #ModernCabin #NaturalMaterials #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #EarthTones #OpenPlanLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #ForestHome

In 2024, a significant trend in luxury living is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a harmonious flow between a home's interior and its backyard. This approach transforms outdoor areas into natural extensions of the home, enhancing both functionality and the overall living experience. Key to this transition is a cohesive design, material selection, and ambiance. Thoughtful incorporation of features like fire and water, outdoor furniture mirroring indoor styles, and consistent paving materials are essential to blur boundaries and create a luxurious retreat. This design philosophy offers benefits beyond aesthetics. It creates a sense of continuity, making spaces appear larger and more grandiose, thereby enhancing a property's ambiance and value. The trend emphasizes high-quality, durable materials that facilitate a smooth transition from the poolside to the patio and into the home. This includes elegant pool coping, matching porcelain pavers, and luxurious interior flooring. Brands such as MSI and US Porcelain Pavers are recommended for their aesthetic appeal and durability, offering collections that pair 2cm outdoor porcelain pavers with corresponding indoor tiles to achieve a unified design. Understanding the differences between outdoor and indoor porcelain is crucial. Outdoor 2cm porcelain pavers are designed for resilience against elements, offering frost resistance, weatherproofing, and minimal water absorption to prevent freeze-thaw damage. They also feature a slip-resistant finish for safety. In contrast, indoor tiles are thinner and come in various finishes to complement interior aesthetics. Furthermore, selecting outdoor furniture that aligns with both settings reinforces the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, mirroring textures, colors, or design elements. Retailers provide a wide array of in-pool and patio furniture options, from plush sofas to sleek loungers, extending living spaces outdoors. Integrating thoughtfully curated greenery, such as plants and flowers that complement indoor designs, through turf, garden walls, and planters, further enhances this harmonious transition. For homes with a modern, minimalist indoor aesthetic, this style should extend naturally to outdoor spaces, maintaining clean lines, materials, and finishes. Adding complementary elements like sleek fire tables or elegant water features from collections such as the Elements by Prism Hardscapes, which offer Brazilian hardwood finishes, ensures a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Another example is a fire and water combination feature, like the Lombard-P Fire and Water combo bowl, which merges flowing water with dancing flames, adding luxury to any pool area. Ultimately, seamless transitions are achieved through intentional design choices, including matching pool coping, pavers, flooring tiles, suitable outdoor furniture, and thoughtful landscaping. These elements, combined with decorative features like fire tables, express personal style while enhancing comfort and visual appeal. This growing trend elevates spaces, blending elegance with tranquility, and redefining luxury living by bridging the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also expands living spaces, making them feel more connected and inviting, fostering a lifestyle that embraces both comfort and nature. #HomeDesign #OutdoorLiving #SeamlessTransitions #PoolDesign #PatioDesign #LuxuryLiving #MaterialSelection #LandscapeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign

This article details the architectural design and construction of a modern, modest home on Elliott Island, Maryland, which received the 2020 Editor's Choice Award. The project, conceived as a weekend retreat for a family to spend time with the client's father, aimed to blend a rustic feel with contemporary design, harmonizing with the remote, fishing-shack-dominated community. David D. Quillin Architecture spearheaded the design, emphasizing measured proportions, a gentle aesthetic, and clean detailing. The home features an open floor plan designed to foster relaxed socializing, with common spaces oriented towards water views. A kitchen island and a stair cabinet effectively divide the main volume into distinct zones for different activities, accommodating both adults and children. The selection of Andy Bukovsky, a local master cabinetmaker but first-time general contractor, and Jerry Keith, the client's father who uses a wheelchair, as construction manager, influenced the design to incorporate accessibility from the outset. This collaborative effort underscored a shared commitment to unity and functionality within the home. Structural considerations were critical due to the home's waterfront location. Given that windows are concentrated on the rear side facing strong northwest winds, engineers recommended steel framing. The builder ingeniously addressed the challenge of integrating Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with steel by welding bolts to beams and then bolting 2x lumber to them. A steel beam in the roof plate was designed to bear on a metal post, stopping short of the exterior wall, to avoid penetrating the SIPs. The at-grade positioning of the floor, combined with extensive glazing, creates a sensation of being directly on the beach, even when indoors. The master suite is spatially separated from the main house by a glass bridge, offering privacy and a treehouse-like retreat. This separation also subtly alludes to the historical evolution of island properties, which often develop as a collection of distinct structures. Pilings were used for the master suite's foundation where the topography sloped away and to protect the roots of nearby pine trees, also allowing natural runoff to flow beneath, creating a visible stream from the bedroom. In contrast, the main house is firmly rooted with a slab-on-grade foundation. The central living space, with its concentrated glazing on the north side, maximizes water views and features a creative play area for children, promoting a "loose and organic" atmosphere for family interaction rather than formality. Materials such as concrete, brick, wood, and metal contribute to the desired rustic camp aesthetic. A notable design element is the shared chimney for two fireplaces, one in the great room and another on the rear deck. The initial football-like shape of the chimney was modified to a 7-ft.-diameter drum reducing to a smaller tower, with 90-degree corners where brick meets siding, simplifying flashing and brick-cutting. An aesthetic highlight is the cedar siding, which weathers to a gray finish where exposed to the sun, but retains an orange-gold color at the recessed entry, creating a beacon effect and adding contrast to the color palette. This natural weathering process helps the house blend seamlessly into its surroundings, reflecting thoughtful decisions in its construction and design. #ModernHomeDesign #RuralArchitecture #WaterfrontProperty #AccessibleDesign #SustainableMaterials #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalAwards #ResidentialConstruction #FamilyLiving

The article explores the increasing trend of custom-built homes designed to deeply reflect the homeowners' unique hobbies, habits, lifestyles, and aspirations. It highlights various examples of newly constructed residences that integrate personalized features, from specialized storage solutions and accessibility considerations like elevators to bespoke artistic elements such as custom murals and wallpaper. This focus on personalization ensures that each home serves as a distinct extension of its occupants' lives. One featured home, built by Stonewood for empty nesters seeking an "Up North" feel near the Twin Cities, exemplifies luxury and natural integration. By combining two Lake Minnetonka lots, the design maximizes privacy and incorporates traditional elements like stone arches, cedar shingle siding, and custom iron handrails, all chosen for their durability and aesthetic appeal. The interior boasts extensive millwork, unpolished brass, and blackened hardware that will gracefully patina over time. Custom wallpaper in each room contributes to a unique narrative, while ample windows frame lake views. The home also incorporates forward-thinking materials and systems, including geothermal heating, superior insulation, and low-maintenance exteriors, achieving a blend of timeless design and modern sustainability without sacrificing beauty. Another project by Nor-Son Custom Builders demonstrates a "Mixed Media" approach, blending rustic charm with modern sophistication. This home features a juxtaposition of materials, with steel and metal accents alongside natural timber and stone. The exterior combines natural stone, brick, and cement board siding, while the interior showcases a three-story stairwell with metal railings, wrapped in brick, and reclaimed oak flooring. Reclaimed oak beams in the great room complement a concrete fireplace and countertops in the kitchen. A notable detail is the owner's suite headboard wall, crafted from reclaimed walnut sourced from trees removed from the building site, further emphasizing the integration of natural and repurposed materials. Gonyea Custom Homes' model home, initially showcased in the Parade of Homes, redefines the concept of a "model" by focusing on realism and attainability rather than a generic template. Strategically placed to leverage a preserved wetland, the kitchen is at the front, allowing the great room and dining area to enjoy scenic views. A unique staircase design includes a mid-level loft for versatile use as a music room, office, or sitting area, and a dedicated kids' space maximizes functionality. The home incorporates various colors beyond white, such as a soothing tan in the kitchen, and features unique light fixtures, custom wall paneling, and artisan tile work. Earth tones and curved, organic shapes like arches contribute to a warm and inviting ambiance. Streeter Custom Builder's "Old Romantics" project on a lakeside property blends classical aesthetics with whimsical, personal details. The East Coast–inspired exterior, with its stone and symmetry, gives way to an interior filled with character. A porthole window into the pantry and Grecian-patterned vent covers add antique charm. A hand-painted verdure mural in the dining room conceals a hidden jib door leading to a blushing pink china closet, adding an unexpected touch of whimsy. Custom tiling in the kids' shower with a "No Diving" motif and a pull-down world map at the kitchen table further reflect the homeowners' personalities and travel aspirations. Landschute's Cape Cod-inspired lakefront property, designed with two equally important "front" sides due to its lake visibility, focuses on classic style and extensive outdoor living. Gables, dormers, gray shingles, and white windows create an approachable, luxurious aesthetic. The home features multiple porches on both the front and lakeside, along with a boathouse, creating abundant spaces for relaxation and enjoying the waterfront. OA Design+Build+Architecture's "Coloring Outside the Lines" project emphasizes the connection between built and natural environments. The exterior features durable PVC decking with a cedar look, contrasting with stark panels and channel. The color palette, including a copper roof, blue and beige panels, and orange highlights, creates a complex yet calming impression. Inside, the primary suite showcases urban forested burl maple and Russian olive in the vanity, a Turkish quartzite counter resembling petrified wood, and hand-carved sinks with kimono patterns. A "rust wall" in the mudroom, designed to look like Corten steel, meets a spalted birch bench, celebrating the natural beauty of materials in various stages. Ron Clark Construction and Design's "Small But Mighty" walk-out rambler in Ridgewood Ponds targets downsizers who desire high-end finishes and ample space for entertaining. It features big windows, a cathedral vault with arched trusses on the main level, and a lower level designed for parties with a stone fireplace, wet bar, and billiards room. The design incorporates trends towards more color, layered looks, millwork, and stained cabinetry. A clever apothecary-style built-in at the stairs conceals functional doors behind decorative drawer fronts. Custom One Homes' "Life, Styled" project was tailored to a health-conscious couple's specific needs, including a chef’s kitchen, double island, and generous bedrooms. A dedicated wellness retreat on the lower level, complete with a workout area, infrared sauna, and adjacent outdoor hot tub, provides a private sanctuary. An elevator was included for longevity, ensuring the home can adapt to their changing needs over time. A sunroom connects the interior to the deck and outdoor kitchen, and the backyard features multiple entertainment areas, water features, and lounging zones, designed as an extension of the indoor living spaces. Howard Homes' "Natural Selection" project, designed by Albertsson Hansen Architecture and Interior Design, focuses on simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature. The secluded home uses natural materials like a dramatic natural fir ceiling and a soapstone slab island. The color palette draws from the surrounding landscape, featuring whites and muted greens. Adaptability is key, with a main-floor office that doubles as an overflow bedroom via a hidden Murphy bed. The homeowners actively restored natural prairie grass and created a large garden, with all interior finishes and wood window sashes chosen to frame the natural views like art, reinforcing the idea of homes becoming a personal reflection of their owners' lives and habits. Finally, Bronder Construction’s cabin, designed by Rehkamp Larson Architects, on a central Minnesota lake, embodies "Cabin Fever" with Scandinavian flair and year-round functionality. Despite its narrow peninsula location, every room offers water views. The design prioritizes private indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, with a deep overhang porch featuring a fireplace and ceiling heaters to extend its use through seasons. Durable, polished concrete with heated floors on the first level and warm wood cladding throughout the main floor create a cozy, Scandi-inspired atmosphere. A remodeled bunkhouse and renovated storage shed with a rooftop deck provide flexible spaces for smaller groups, quiet reading, or remote work, catering to the post-COVID trend of balancing togetherness with individual space. #CustomHomes #InteriorDesign #Architecture #HomeBuilding #LuxuryHomes #PersonalizedSpaces #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

The Tecture-designed Deans Marsh House is a tranquil, light-filled residence nestled in the Surf Coast's hinterland, specifically designed to offer a sense of anticipation and seclusion. The home is accessed via a meandering one-kilometer driveway, intentionally concealing its full form until visitors are well into the property. The initial view is a rammed earth wall with a single opening, revealing little of the interior beyond. This design choice, according to Tecture director and lead architect Ben Robertson, was a deliberate psychological play to create a powerful sense of discovery. The owners, transitioning from urban Newtown to Deans Marsh, sought a calm, quiet, and isolated space that would feel warm and cozy, deeply connected to its rural environment. A central design element is the extensive use of rammed earth walls, each 400mm thick, prominently featured throughout the main living areas as per the homeowners' request. The design maximizes the internal exposure of this material, which also forms a significant part of the home's exterior. This natural, environmentally friendly material, combined with timber cladding, drives the home's façade, ensuring it blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. The material palette was chosen to complement the rammed earth's tone, avoiding bright whites in favor of earthy and natural hues to facilitate a seamless transition from the clients' previous urban lifestyle. Internally, the home showcases a calming blend of dark and earthy tones, with consistent use of complementary and contrasting materials such as timber, laminates, and travertine. The design intentionally limited the number of materials to avoid complexity and maintain a cohesive aesthetic. This minimalist approach allows the natural material palette of the exterior to extend inward, especially given the remote location where privacy concerns are minimal, enabling large openings and an indoor-outdoor connection. The house is divided into two distinct sections. The living, kitchen, dining, and main bedroom areas are oriented northward to optimize sunlight and solar gain. A 'kids' wing' is situated to the south, primarily intended for occasional visitors. While an ideal design would have elongated the property to ensure all bedrooms benefited from northern light, budget constraints necessitated prioritizing the primary living spaces. Robertson expressed pride in the outcome, highlighting the home's profound sense of discovery, stillness, tranquility, and refined material application, all contributing to a successful and cathartic living environment. #RammedEarth #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #RuralLiving #CoastalHinterland #NaturalMaterials #HomeDesign #Tecture #DeansMarshHouse

The article details the transformation of a Bridgehampton, New York, Hamptons home by architects Timothy Haynes and interior designer Kevin Roberts. The property, initially purchased 12 years prior by a New York businessman, was a five-acre estate near the ocean and the town of Bridgehampton. He had previously renovated the mid-1990s house with interior designer Victoria Hagan, streamlining its postmodern architecture into a comfortable beachside retreat for himself and his two sons. This earlier renovation, featuring a blue-and-white scheme, was prominently featured on the cover of ELLE DECOR in 2002. The current renovation was prompted by the homeowner's remarriage, necessitating a redesign to accommodate his new wife and her 10-year-old daughter. The couple initially engaged Haynes and Roberts for a partial renovation, including the kitchen and master bath. However, as their family grew and their entertaining needs expanded, a more extensive overhaul became necessary. The wife, a fashionista and museum patron with a strong design aesthetic, desired to infuse the home with her personal style, incorporating contemporary art, vibrant colors, vintage and antique furnishings, and a touch of glamour. A primary goal was to create a dining room capable of hosting 25 people for large family gatherings like Thanksgiving. Significant structural and landscape changes were implemented. The existing tennis court, which obstructed views and was unused by the couple, was removed along with the original swimming pool. Haynes and Roberts collaborated with Manhattan-based landscape architect Edmund Hollander, who had designed the property's initial garden, to create an ambitious new landscape plan. This included a new saltwater pool inspired by a Slim Aarons photograph, featuring limestone steps cascading into the water. Hollander also designed garden walks bordered with Japanese holly, green velvet boxwood, masses of hydrangeas, lilacs, peonies, and roses. A new poolhouse was constructed with two wings: one for a changing room and sauna, and the other featuring a chic bar and lounge with a white-and-blue circle-patterned marble floor. These wings frame an outdoor dining pavilion, complemented by a gravel-lined garden and a bosque of plane trees. The main house underwent extensive modifications, including the expansion of rooms and the lifting of ceilings to enhance the sense of space and ease. In the master bedroom, a wall with a Juliet balcony was replaced with expansive windows overlooking the garden, and a previously underutilized terrace was converted into an enclosed sitting room. The homeowners were deeply involved in every design decision, from fixtures to furniture selections. The living room was reimagined as the home's social hub. Haynes and Roberts raised its gabled ceiling to 20 feet and doubled the space with an addition featuring a wall of windows and French doors. The interior decor of the living room includes oversized white leather cocktail tables, ample seating, and a vintage Harvey Probber tufted sofa, which Roberts divided into two sections to face the garden. The design philosophy emphasized functionality and comfort, ensuring that every piece of furniture invited relaxation. A notable artistic element is a faceted mirror sculpture by Doug Aitken above the striped marble mantel, spelling out the word “more,” reflecting the wife’s preference for a touch of extravagance. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #HamptonsStyle #LuxuryHomes #LandscapeArchitecture #ContemporaryArt #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalTransformation #SeasideLiving

The Chilmark Guest House in Massachusetts, designed by Charles Rose Architects, is a compact guest cabin spanning 800 sq ft. It is situated on a steep slope overlooking a clearing and Vineyard Sound, with its design focused on maximizing views through large windows and balconies, creating an open and light-filled atmosphere. The house features two bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, positioned at opposite ends, and a shared kitchen and dining area. Additional living spaces include a cellar, porch, and roof terrace. The selection of natural materials such as pigmented concrete, stone, copper, cedar, and fir for the exterior, and teak, mahogany, and cork for the interior, enhances the connection to the outdoors and the building's delicate character. The article also showcases several other examples of compact, nature-integrated homes. The Sol Duc Cabin by Olson Kundig Architects in West Washington demonstrates a balance between openness and resilience. Its design allows for expansive views of the wilderness, while robust steel panels can seal the structure, providing a bunker-like defense against severe weather. The cabin is elevated on four steel pillars to prevent flooding, and its interior, warmed by leftover wood, features a simple layout with living and kitchen areas on the lower level and a bedroom on the mezzanine. A covered balcony provides a sheltered space to enjoy the surroundings. Pobble House, designed by Guy Holloway Architects and located in the Dungeness headland, is characterized by three distinct volumes clad in larch, Corten steel, and cement. A glazed sliding door in the open-plan living area connects directly to the outdoors, retracting completely into wall pockets. The interior design emphasizes neutral tones and discreet furnishings, ensuring the focus remains on the sparse natural landscape. The house, capable of accommodating up to ten guests, is constructed with a timber-frame, synthetic waterproofing, and durable exterior cladding, designed to age gracefully and integrate with its natural environment. Fonte Boa House in Portugal features a white rendered façade, reflecting local architectural traditions, with strategically placed windows to optimize internal views. Its concrete pad foundations minimally impact the landscape. The interior employs a simple palette of white walls and timber floors, complemented by integrated furniture to maintain a clutter-free space. Notable design elements include a frameless glass façade in the living room offering dramatic views and a glass lobby at the entrance facilitating a smooth transition from outside to inside. The semi-sunken carpark with concrete retaining walls provides a buffer from the main road, and a hallway on the first floor, with a pitched ceiling, resembles an art gallery. The Houl, a net-zero carbon dwelling in Dumfriesshire, reinterprets the traditional Scottish 'longhouse'. Designed by Simon Winstanley Architects, it sits on a west-facing slope overlooking the River Ken valley. This lightweight steel and timber-frame structure is clad in untreated cedar, allowing it to weather naturally. Its low-slung design, with long monopitched roofs, follows the hillside's contours. The house incorporates PassivHaus standards of insulation and a reflective thermal membrane to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. The main living areas are oriented to capture valley views, while ancillary spaces are recessed at the rear, demonstrating a commitment to both environmental sustainability and aesthetic integration with the landscape. Finally, the Wood Cabin by Atelier St, nestled in the pinewoods of the March of Brandenburg, presents a fairytale-like appearance with its dark wood façade, pitched roof, and small chimney. The exterior is clad in dark brown glazed pinewood, contrasting with a white-painted interior. Large picture windows illuminate the space, and a ladder leads to a gallery level. The cabin includes a custom-built pinewood kitchen, two bedrooms, and one bathroom. #ResidentialArchitecture #GuestHouse #CabinDesign #SustainableArchitecture #ModernLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #LandscapeIntegration

The article describes the transformation of a 24th-floor penthouse at the Alagon on Bayshore, spearheaded by luxury designer Rob Bowen. The design approach, termed “high gloss meets high fashion,” draws inspiration from fashion houses, Parisian salons, and cinematic interiors. The four-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence is conceived to function as both a comfortable family home and an impressive venue for entertaining. The design incorporates panoramic views of Tampa Bay from the primary suite and salon, utilizing minimal drapery and strategic lighting to blend the exterior with the interior. The foundational aesthetic of the penthouse is a high-contrast black and white palette, which is then overlaid with vibrant jewel tones such as magenta, eggplant, and emerald, along with gold accents to introduce dramatic flair. A significant technical hurdle during the project involved applying black lacquer on a large scale, a process where even minor imperfections could compromise the intended smooth finish. The interior features custom lighting fixtures by Gabriel Scott and Lindsay Adelman, which serve a dual purpose as functional lighting and sculptural art pieces. Textural depth and visual interest are achieved through various elements, including flocked houndstooth wallcovering, shimmering Lucite panels, woven metal drapery in the salon, and glass bead wallpaper with a gold-leaf overlay. Among the various meticulously designed spaces, the rotunda stands out as Bowen's personal favorite, characterized by its dramatic architectural presence, custom marble floors, and glossy black walls. Despite the opulent design elements, a key objective was to create a home that authentically reflects the clients' personalities while maintaining both livability and a visually unforgettable atmosphere. Specific areas of the penthouse are detailed further. The kitchen features a black and white scheme with bronze accents on columns and backsplashes, complemented by white cabinets from T2theS Design + Build. A handmade Gabriel Scott chandelier, an eggplant Minotti sofa, and kitchen stools upholstered in a kelly-green crocodile pattern add distinctive touches. In the dining room, an acrylic room divider by T2theS, designed to mimic waves, helps minimize visual distractions. This space is furnished with magenta Kyle Bunting Hide-upholstered chairs surrounding a Baxter table, all illuminated by a Lindsay Adelman chandelier. The salon offers stunning waterfront views framed by woven metal curtains, featuring a gold leather and black velvet Holly Hunt sofa, a Gabriel Scott chandelier, and a custom Kyle Bunting rug. The black, white, and gold theme extends into the primary bathroom, which boasts SICIS mosaic flooring and a custom T2theS makeup vanity with bronze and crystal hardware. The his-and-hers closets in the primary bedroom showcase French white oak flooring, stained black and sealed. His closet includes black lacquer drawers and hide wallcovering, while hers features a Maya Romanoff glass-beaded wallcovering with gold leaf accents. The primary bedroom itself incorporates the same beaded and gold leaf wallcovering, an upholstered faux-chinchilla headboard, a Bernhardt bed, a Mongolian lamb rug, and two Bernhardt nightstands, all contributing to the cohesive and luxurious design narrative. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #RobBowenDesign #PenthouseDesign #TampaBay #HighFashionInteriors #CustomLighting #TexturalDesign

This article explores a collection of 11 unique floating homes around the world, showcasing innovative designs that offer an escape from conventional living and a closer connection to nature. These buoyant buildings range from serene boathouses to luxury yacht villas, each designed with a focus on functionality, aesthetics, and environmental integration. The featured homes include "The Salty Dog" in New South Wales, Australia, a two-story wooden boathouse moored in Pittwater. It boasts a modern Scandi interior with whitewashed walls, timber paneling, and a wood-burning stove, accommodating two guests with a loft bedroom for stargazing and an outdoor deck. In Vereda Los Naranjos, Colombia, the "Casa Flotante de Guatapé" is a charming cabana floating on the Guatapé Reservoir. Despite its small size, it features contemporary furniture, an open-plan living space with a large bed, and a glass front that opens to the reservoir, complete with a compact kitchen and a Jacuzzi on the terrace. France offers the "Elaho Spa Cabin," a two-story floating treehouse in Bourgogne Franche-Comté, accessible only by boat. This hexagonal structure provides 360-degree views from its top-level double bedroom and includes a wraparound terrace made from natural timber. On-shore facilities provide hot showers. Quebec, Canada, hosts "Minibora," a modern chalet on a tranquil lake. This 450-square-foot floating home features an open-plan living area, a sleek green kitchen, and a glass garage door that opens to an exterior deck. A spiral staircase leads to sun loungers on the balcony, and a mezzanine bedroom with a netted hammock offers unique views. The "Float Home" in Seattle, Washington, designed by Design Northwest Architects, is part of a community on Lake Union. This 2,100-square-foot residence uses space-saving solutions, features a streamlined layout with polished concrete flooring, Western red cedar, and retractable glass doors providing lakefront views from the upper floor. Amsterdam, Netherlands, showcases two notable floating homes. The "Angular floating house" by i29 is part of the self-sufficient Schoonschip floating village. It uses canal water for heat and solar panels for electricity, featuring a pitched roof, dark-stained timber cladding, and a light-filled interior with extensive glazing and a shaded terrace. The "Watervilla" by +31 Architects, located on the Amstel river, emphasizes the connection between water and interior through a large glass wall that opens to unite both elements. This 2,000-square-foot villa includes a generous outdoor terrace and a basement level with bedrooms, including a master suite with an in-room bathtub. Another Amsterdam entry is the "Tatami House" by Julius Taminiau Architects, influenced by Japanese tatami rooms. Built off-site and transported, its design minimizes waste and features a light-reflective exterior that mirrors the water. The interior boasts a contemporary Japanese aesthetic with built-in storage and multiple levels, including a lower floor partially below the waterline and a rooftop terrace with solar panels. Internationally, Dymitr Malcew's "Floating experience house" is a conceptual design highlighting luxury living on water with a penthouse-like feel. It features three segmented living quarters, extensive floor-to-ceiling glass panels, and a customizable interior, with the entire structure capable of relocation on a floating platform. Finally, a "Luxury floating house" in Øygarden, Norway, offers a lavish stay on a Norwegian fjord. This 2,100-square-foot, six-bedroom house features chic white interiors, laminate flooring, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that provide stunning panoramic views. Multiple lounge spaces, including one with a wall of glass windows, are furnished with cozy, hygge-inspired elements. An "Arkup" zero-emissions yacht villa represents self-sufficient luxury, functioning as a solar-powered electric yacht with a villa structure. Designed to withstand extreme weather, it includes a waste management system, rainwater harvesting, and solar panels for off-grid living, featuring two outdoor decks and four en-suite bedrooms. These examples collectively demonstrate the diversity and ingenuity in floating home architecture, emphasizing sustainable living, unique experiences, and a harmonious relationship with aquatic environments. #FloatingHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #SustainableLiving #WaterfrontProperties #UniqueHomes #HomeInnovation #LuxuryLiving #EcoFriendlyHomes #TravelAccommodation

The Dancing Light House, located in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is a residential project designed by Kendle Design Collaborative. This dwelling, along with its guest house, features geometric shapes that echo the surrounding mountains and integrates various elements that pay homage to the desert landscape. The design prioritizes a connection to nature, offering 180-degree views of Camelback Mountain, thereby blurring the lines between the interior and the impressive outdoor environment. A central and visually striking feature of the house is a floating roof canopy. This element not only adds a sculptural quality to the design but also skillfully balances the cozier, lower-ceiling living spaces with expansive views provided by large windows and the elevated roofline. The architectural forms, described as tectonic-like shapes, draw inspiration from both the local geological formations and the dramatic monsoon cloud patterns characteristic of the region. The architect, Brent Kendle, also incorporated concealed lighting and mechanical systems to maintain a clean aesthetic that keeps the focus on the architectural form and natural materials. Material selection plays a crucial role in the house's connection to its surroundings and its overall aesthetic. Layered rammed-earth walls create a tactile and visual link between the modern interior and the desert environment. Complementing these organic forms are materials like concrete, metal, and glass, which introduce a contemporary contrast. These diverse materials are also strategically utilized to define and articulate different areas and functions within the home, contributing to a coherent yet varied interior landscape. Beyond its physical context, the house is significantly influenced by natural light. Arizona's abundant sunshine is harnessed and manipulated throughout the day, creating dynamic changes in the living spaces. Light enters through large windows and subtle openings, constantly transforming the ambiance. Reflections from the swimming pool surface cast bright and dynamic compositions onto the fractured wall planes, while at other times, a softer glow contributes to a sense of calm within the interior. The rooms are thoughtfully arranged around a central courtyard-like space, facilitating the flow of natural light and mountain breezes through the house, further enhancing its integration with the natural world. The project was completed in 2016 by Kendle Design Collaborative, with Brent Kendle as the lead architect. Key collaborators included David Michael Miller for interior design, GBtwo Landscape Architects for landscape design, and Desert Star Construction as the builder. The house spans 5600 square feet. Sustainable features are integral to the design, encompassing passive solar considerations such as site orientation to minimize sun exposure and calculated roof overhangs for shade. Passive cooling techniques include strategically placed operable windows to encourage cross-ventilation and a pool positioned to pre-cool air entering the home. The house is also prepared for future rooftop solar panel installation and incorporates rammed earth walls, exposed concrete, high-performance low-E glazing, high-efficiency refrigeration, tankless water heating, expanded cell foam insulation, high reflectivity roofing, home automation, and LED lighting, along with powered roller shades. Photography for the project was provided by Alexander Vertikoff. #ResidentialArchitecture #ParadiseValley #ArizonaDesign #SustainableArchitecture #DesertModernism #NaturalLightDesign #KendleDesignCollaborative #ContemporaryHome

This article highlights eleven distinctive rammed-earth projects sourced from Pinterest, reflecting a growing interest among users in earthy interior designs. Rammed earth, a construction technique utilizing compressed layers of natural raw materials like earth, chalk, lime, or gravel, offers a warm aesthetic and natural hues suitable for both interior and exterior applications. The featured projects showcase the versatility and regional adaptability of this sustainable building method. Among the examples is the Cabo Sports Complex in Mexico, designed by Taller Héctor Barroso, which features 5,000 square meters of rammed earth walls that harmonise with the local terrain, complemented by weather-treated pine elements. In Australia, Wood Marsh designed Peninsula House with curving walls of charred timber and rammed earth, specifically crafted to echo the contours of the nearby Bass Strait coastline and its winding paths. Arquipélago Arquitetos’ House in Cunha, Brazil, demonstrates rammed earth walls made from a blend of earth, sand, and clay, resting on a concrete foundation. Its reddish tone is intentionally chosen to blend with the surrounding lush landscape, beneath a flat roof. Di Frenna Arquitectos’ Espacia Kaab in Mexico integrates natural materials like stone, rammed earth, carrizo weaves, and stucco to create a home that accommodates existing flora through courtyards and openings. RIMA Design Group's Casa Ballena, an arts center in Los Cabos, Mexico, utilizes rammed earth for its microclimatic benefits and soundproofing qualities, addressing the specific environmental challenges of the region. Sharon Davis Design employed rammed earth for the Bayalpata Hospital in Nepal, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and use of local materials to replace an outdated clinic. More Design Office in China transformed traditional rammed-earth houses into guesthouses at Floating Cloud Township Villa, also adding new concrete structures for a bar and lounge. Juan Alberto Andrade’s extension for El Retiro, a multifamily housing complex in Ecuador, features a 30-centimeter-thick rammed earth wall that seamlessly blends with the original structure and the surrounding neighborhood. In China, DL Atelier's Sanbaopeng Art Museum was constructed using locally sourced clay-heavy earth, giving it a textured, poetic appearance that seems to emerge from the ground. Lake Flato designed Marfa Ranch in Texas, using three million pounds of rammed earth to construct walls that complement the desert grasslands. Lastly, Neil Architecture's Casa di Campo in Australia is characterized by a four-meter-high rammed-earth wall, providing a rough, grey exterior that integrates with the extensive farmland while also being exposed internally. These projects collectively illustrate the enduring appeal and functional benefits of rammed-earth construction, ranging from aesthetic integration with natural environments to sustainable material use and climate control. The applications span various building types, including residential homes, sports facilities, arts centers, and hospitals, demonstrating the material's adaptability and growing relevance in contemporary architecture. #RammedEarthArchitecture #SustainableDesign #NaturalMaterials #EarthyInteriors #ArchitecturalRoundup #GlobalArchitecture #EcoFriendlyConstruction #ResidentialArchitecture #PublicBuildings

The Desert Wash home, a 6,700-square-foot modern residence in Paradise Valley, Arizona, was designed by architect Brent Kendle of Kendle Design Collaborative for clients Keith and Becky. The initial challenge for the design was a desert wash that bisected the building site, which the owners initially viewed as a hindrance. However, Kendle embraced this natural feature, transforming it into a central element of the home’s design and ethos. The architect's vision was to create a contemporary residence with minimal site impact, integrating the structure harmoniously into its desert surroundings. The home's design is divided into three distinct parts. The southern section houses the entrance, a guest suite, and an office. This compact volume is connected to the main body of the house, situated to the north, by an enclosed bridge. This bridge is elevated above the desert wash, allowing periodic floodwaters and local wildlife to pass underneath undisturbed. This innovative structural solution not only preserves the natural flow of the wash but also provides unique views and experiences from within the home, making the natural landscape an intrinsic part of daily life. To ensure the house blended seamlessly with its environment, Brent Kendle utilized a material palette and design elements that echoed the desert landscape. Rammed earth walls, constructed from soil excavated directly from the site, are a prominent feature, providing a direct physical connection to the land. This choice of material contributes to the home's eco-friendly credentials and offers natural insulation properties. A neutral color palette further enhances the integration, making the structure feel as if it has emerged organically from the desert. Expansive glazing, including Fleetwood sliding pocket-doors, is used throughout the residence to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. This allows for continuous visual and physical access to the surrounding desert, fostering a deep connection with nature. Outdoor living rooms are strategically integrated into the design, extending the habitable space and providing shaded areas for relaxation and enjoyment of the natural surroundings. Douglas Fir soffits and integral color-synthetic stucco for exterior walls complement the rammed earth, creating a cohesive and visually appealing facade. From various points within the home, such as the open great room and the master suite, sweeping views of the desert wash and the broader landscape are framed. The master bedroom features a corner window specifically designed to capture these views, while a freestanding soaking tub in the master bath is strategically placed beneath another shaded corner window. The interior also features Verano-brushed 12x24 limestone flooring in the great room, which benefits from ample natural light. The kitchen boasts a three-inch Calcutta Prima slab on the range wall and backsplash, adding a touch of elegance to the natural material scheme. Keith, one of the homeowners, noted that the wash, rather than being an obstacle, has become a "freeway" for local wildlife and an endless source of entertainment and educational opportunities for their two young children. The design emphasizes site-sensitivity, respecting the natural topography by nestling into the earth while spanning over the ancient wash, thereby minimizing disruption and maximizing the symbiotic relationship between the built environment and the natural desert ecosystem. #EcoFriendlyHome #RammedEarthWalls #DesertArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ModernResidence #SiteSensitiveDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArizonaHomes #KendleDesignCollaborative