My Historic Home Living Room Reveal

The blog post details the formal living room reveal in the author's new home, a bright and spacious room located off her office and visible upon entry. The author aimed to create a formal living room that was impactful, peaceful, and feminine, also intending to use it for work meetings. The design concept centered around an ultra-feminine aesthetic with pink as a primary color, combined with an elevated tropical vibe reminiscent of vintage Hollywood Regency style. The envisioned space was for relaxing with friends or reading a magazine. A key element in achieving the elevated design was sourcing materials from Kravet, a company known for its quality and selection in design since 1918. The author had a positive prior experience with Kravet for wallpaper in her previous home's mudroom and stair tower. For this formal living room, she selected a Kravet sisal wallpaper featuring palm leaves, which perfectly integrated the elegant and beachy aspects of the Hollywood Regency theme. This choice was aimed at creating a significant visual impression and a sophisticated atmosphere. Complementing the wallpaper, the author chose Lee Jofa “New Bradbourne” fabric in blush for the drapes, reinforcing the feminine vision for the room. The drapes were further enhanced with Kravet’s “Daintree” fringe in Ivory/Natural, adding a retro touch to the overall decor. The selection process involved narrowing down numerous options from Kravet's extensive range of wallcoverings, fabrics, and trims. All the furniture in the formal living room was carefully chosen to align with the desired aesthetic and contribute to the room's overall ambiance. The author expresses extreme satisfaction with the final outcome, noting that the room effectively sets the tone for the entire house without being overwhelming. She describes it as her ideal tranquil space, where she enjoys relaxing with a glass of wine and a coffee table book. The blog post provides a detailed list of design credits for various elements within the room, including the wallpaper, curtain fabric and trim, their respective installers, and specific furniture pieces such as the couch, chairs, coffee table, bar cart, side table, and cabinets. Decorative items like the rug, pillows, blankets, artworks, faux fiddle trees, planters, and various candles and vases are also listed, along with styling books. The article concludes by inviting readers to ask further questions about the design details, emphasizing the successful realization of her vision for a personalized, elegant, and comfortable formal living space. #FormalLivingRoom #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #KravetFabrics #HollywoodRegency #FeminineDesign #RoomReveal #DecorInspiration

The article provides an intimate look into the Sunfish Lake home of antiques dealer Robert Riesberg and his wife, Christine Hartman, which doubles as both their residence and a by-appointment-only gallery for Riesberg's business. Their Federal-style house, built in 1925, is characterized by a blend of traditional design and warm hospitality, furnished with museum-quality 17th, 18th, and early 19th-century antiques, art, objects, and rugs. Riesberg, with over 50 years of experience, emphasizes buying pieces he would personally want to keep, noting that this passion drives his successful career. The home features a series of formal rooms, including a front parlor with a mahogany drum table, sideboard, and a 1760 cherry New England flip-top secretary desk, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Rosy Apple. A light-filled formal dining room and gallery, added by Riesberg, is used for parties and family gatherings, showcasing French Louis XV rococo console tables with rare brèche d’alep marble from approximately 1760. The exterior of the home maintains its Federal-style architecture, while the kitchen, though the least formal space, is adorned with 18th-century Windsor chairs and Delft tiles depicting manganese figures from the same period. Creative design solutions are evident throughout, such as a small closet ingeniously converted into a walk-in bar with a Dutch door. The sunporch, featuring terrazzo floors and shelves filled with Delftware, opens to a grape arbor, offering a serene space. The fireplace mantel and paneling were custom-designed based on Connecticut fireplace patterns, symmetrically decorated with blue-and-white 18th-century Delftware. The central hallway boasts ash and walnut flooring modeled after traditional French parquetry, complemented by 19th-century oil landscapes, a late 18th-century portrait, and a Regency commode from around 1710. Riesberg’s study, designed with Connecticut inspiration, features millwork painted in a custom green and houses a substantial collection of books and catalogs on antiques, art, landscaping, and architecture. The article also includes five tips from Robert Riesberg and Christine Hartman for incorporating antiques into one's home. These tips encourage individuals to discover their personal taste by visiting various sources like museums and antique shops, and building a file of preferred items. They suggest taking inventory of existing belongings to identify pieces that don't align with one's aesthetic or function, thereby creating space for new acquisitions. The couple advocates for broadening one's scope beyond furnishing a room strictly by a singular period, encouraging the mixing of contemporary furnishings with antique gems to create a space that reflects individual taste and personality. Riesberg advises understanding the craftsmanship of antiques, particularly those made before the machine age (pre-1840), to appreciate their design details and value. Finally, they recommend taking a slow approach to building a collection, emphasizing that a few beautiful, well-chosen pieces are more valuable than a multitude of mediocre ones, and that truly beautiful homes evolve in stages. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #FederalStyleHome #VintageDecor #HomeTours #LuxuryInteriors #CollectingAntiques

This article highlights five distinct homes, each showcasing a living room design characterized by welcoming aesthetics, comfort, and personalized style. These homes, submitted by members of the Dwell community, represent various architectural approaches and geographical locations, including Mill Valley, California; New York, New York; Seattle, Washington; and Grand Rapids and Saugatuck, Michigan. Each entry provides a brief description from the architects, emphasizing key design philosophies and functional elements. The first featured residence, HillSide House in Mill Valley, California, designed by Zack | de Vito Architecture + Construction, offers an open and spacious floor plan. The architects prioritized functionality and flexibility, allowing the house to adapt to the evolving needs of its inhabitants over time. This design ensures that the living space can grow and mature alongside the family. Next is a gut renovation of an 1880s townhouse in New York, New York, by Allison H. Reeves, R. A., titled "Brooklyn Upside Down With Views." This project involved a significant reorientation of the home's layout. A new vertical circulation system and a dramatic rooftop skylight were incorporated to draw natural light deep into the center of the house. The programmatic flip places private spaces and bedrooms on lower floors, while the open-plan living room, dining room, and kitchen occupy the third floor to capitalize on the high ceilings and expansive views. "House For a Mother & Daughter" in Seattle, Washington, by Robert Hutchison Architecture, was designed with specific client requests: a simple building form, square windows, and a gable roof. The design intentionally creates a series of contradictions, presenting an initial perception that then reveals a different reality upon closer inspection. From the street, it appears as a single-story farmhouse, designed to integrate seamlessly with its neighbors. However, upon entering the site, the house is revealed to be two stories, with doors that open the main living areas to a south-facing deck. The interior spaces are conceived as blank canvases, allowing the artist client to personalize them. The fourth home, Rogue River Residence in Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Lucid Architecture, features a warm, modern design achieved through a variety of material textures, both interior and exterior. The living space boasts a two-story height, anchored by a modern fireplace, which prominently frames the outdoor view. Given the clients' passion for entertaining, the design includes a large kitchen that fluidly connects to the living and dining areas, promoting ease of use and social interaction. Finally, the Pleasant Street Residence in Saugatuck, Michigan, also by Lucid Architecture, incorporates a distinctive design element where the front great room is intentionally public. A furniture-like wall, drawing inspiration from Mies’ Farnsworth house, provides privacy for all other rooms, even in the absence of window coverings. A notable feature is that no rooms have interior walls connecting with the outer perimeter of the house, a design choice echoing that of a 1958 E. Stewart Williams house in Palm Springs, California. These diverse projects collectively illustrate various strategies for creating inviting, well-lit, and functional living spaces that reflect both architectural innovation and homeowner preferences. #HomeDesign #LivingRoom #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernHomes #Renovation

Studio McGee clients Darin and Sarah undertake a renovation of their historic "old pioneer home" in Charleston, Utah, a hamlet located outside Salt Lake City. The project focuses on updating the entry and living room while preserving the home's historical essence and imbuing it with a cozy, colorful cottage aesthetic, described as an "updated Little House on the Prairie" vibe. The design employs a cohesive color palette throughout the space, featuring Sherwin-Williams' Riverway, a dark blue-green, and Clare's Timeless, a cream hue, applied consistently across walls and built-in cabinets. The entry, despite not being overly large, is treated as a dedicated space, styled to integrate seamlessly with the rest of the home while maximizing functionality. A wall of hooks and a vintage dresser from McGee & Co.'s collection are incorporated to provide ample storage for items like hats and gloves, enhancing practical use without compromising style. Charcoal-colored limestone tile from Ann Sacks is utilized to visually delineate the entry from the main living area, creating a subtle yet effective transition. The walls in the entry feature a distinctive willow-adorned William Morris wallpaper, extending from the wood paneling trim up to the ceiling, adding a touch of classic pattern and texture. The living room design includes a side sitting area with a wall of built-in cabinetry, designed specifically to house the client's extensive book collection. This cabinetry, with its unlacquered brass pulls and a brass gallery rail, creates an immersive, library-like atmosphere. The client's piano is integrated into this built-in arrangement, and is accompanied by an upholstered bench from the Studio McGee x Threshold collection, draped with a sheepskin from Jenni Kayne Home. Antique brass swing arm sconces flank the piano, complemented by brass flush mount fixtures overhead. Across from the piano, a formerly vacant corner is transformed into a small game area with a marble-top table and a French bistro base, paired with two velvet swivel chairs that allow for flexible interaction with the main living space. The primary living area is anchored by McGee & Co.’s Youngman Console Table, positioned behind a Lucille English Roll Arm Sofa upholstered in tan performance linen. Additional seating includes a McGee & Co. Gemma Chair and an antique Windsor spindle chair sourced from Etsy, placed on either side of the fireplace. A patterned Belleville Rug from McGee & Co. defines the living space, beneath an alder wood square coffee table. The finishing touches, such as vintage cowbells, crocks, and books, contribute to a "prairie chic" aesthetic, completing the cohesive and historically sensitive design. The project highlights a successful blend of modern updates with traditional charm, supported by various sponsors contributing materials and expertise. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #CottageStyle #LivingRoomDesign #EntrywayDesign #StudioMcGee #DreamHomeMakeover #TraditionalModern

The article details the renovation of a historic 1914 home in Westport, CT, originally the studio of American sculptors James Earl and Laura Gardin Fraser. The property, listed on the state's historic register, presented unique challenges and opportunities for architect and designer Lisa Schwert of Innate Studio. The renovation focused on balancing the preservation of original features and the integration of modern living requirements, elevating the home's interiors while honoring its artistic legacy. A key aspect of the redesign was celebrating and cherishing original features. The bright, double-height living room, a former sculptor's studio, was enhanced to preserve its historical significance. Lisa Schwert emphasized finding the right balance between restoring original detailing and implementing a modern redesign. Architectural challenges were transformed into unique opportunities, such as creating a stunning home bar from an awkward corner. This bar, clad in Calacatta marble, complemented existing elements like whitewashed beams and a limestone relief by Laura Gardin Fraser, demonstrating how contemporary forms can integrate with period features to maintain a modern yet livable feel. In the kitchen, the homeowners' desire for a practical and attractive space for cooking and entertaining was a priority. The renovation focused on upgrading without full replacement by changing only the faucets and tiles. Existing kitchen cabinets and countertops were retained, while contemporary chrome faucets were replaced with classic polished nickel ones to align with the home's historic character. New handmade wall tiles from Clé Tile were installed to harmonize with the cabinet color and Carrera countertops. Furthermore, the eat-in kitchen was designed to balance modern family life with a traditional aesthetic, incorporating a custom-designed built-in banquette with matching window treatments, which also provided additional storage. The formal dining room was envisioned to accommodate larger gatherings while maintaining a timeless elegance. The design started with an antique rug that tied together the existing silk wall covering and an oil painting. An antique walnut table, originally from a Spanish Monastery, was paired with custom dining chairs upholstered in performance velvet. A linear crystal chandelier was added as a finishing touch to introduce sparkle. The living room, featuring the home's original fireplace, was designed as a cozy seating area. A symmetrical arrangement of four vintage leather Art Deco club chairs, an ottoman, twin mirrors, and a Heriz rug created an eclectic and homely atmosphere. A significant addition to the home was a main-level powder room, ingeniously created from a small AV closet under the stairs. This space was furnished with dramatic wallpaper, a custom marble sink, Waterworks fixtures, and alabaster sconces, transforming a functional necessity into a glamorous feature. The primary bedroom's design addressed a practical challenge by installing a custom upholstered headboard and bed that spanned the entire wall. This solution allowed for new sconces to be placed optimally and concealed necessary patching in the existing grasscloth wall covering, all while extending the home's narrative with a bird motif fabric. Finally, the interior design reflected the home's outdoor setting, which included a patio, pool, and landscaped grounds. The whimsical, timeless nature of the exterior architecture and backyard landscaping was integrated into the interiors. The design process involved sourcing many furnishings from 1stDibs, Chairish, and local antique dealers, reupholstering some items, and creating new upholstered pieces through a local workroom. This collaborative approach aimed to create a comfortable home that could withstand the demands of a family with pets and young children, successfully blending historical reverence with modern functionality and personal taste. #HistoricHomeRenovation #ModernLiving #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #CustomFurniture #KitchenRemodel #DiningRoomDesign #PowderRoomIdeas #BedroomDesign

This blog post offers a comprehensive tour of a transitional style living room, highlighting the design philosophy and specific furniture pieces and decor items chosen to create an inviting and functional space. The author emphasizes the importance of the living room as a central area for family and friends, focusing on comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The tour begins with an in-depth look at the white sectional sofa, chosen for its comfort, resistance to spills and stains due to its Crypton fabric, and its ability to maintain its shape over time. The author notes its versatility and suitability for a growing family, even with challenges like dementia, making it a practical and long-lasting investment. The gallery wall is presented as a personalized focal point, distinguishing itself from typical monochromatic displays by incorporating a mix of colorful photographs. This design choice aims to tell a unique story of the homeowners' lives, with space reserved for a significant panoramic wedding photo. The article then moves to a bone-inlay bar cabinet, which serves a dual purpose as both elegant decor and practical storage, cleverly concealing a Wi-Fi router, beverages, and extra decor. Its soft-close doors and integrated cable management are highlighted as functional features in an open-concept home. A leather recliner is introduced as a comfortable and stylish addition, providing both plush support and visual contrast to the room's lighter color palette. The choice of an oval marble coffee table is explained as a way to introduce balance against the room's predominant rectangular and square shapes, offering a modern yet timeless aesthetic. The handwoven rug is praised for its softness, cool touch, and subtle gray-blue lines that add depth without overwhelming the transitional style. Practical square leather poufs are featured for their versatility as extra seating or footrests, complementing the leather recliner without being overly matching. The blog post also touches on the role of greenery with a fiddle leaf fig plant named Frank, and the integration of technology with a Samsung Frame TV. The Frame TV is specifically chosen for its ability to blend seamlessly into the decor by displaying art when not in use, thus avoiding it becoming an obtrusive focal point above the fireplace. Finally, the author discusses the importance of decorative finishing touches, such as martini tables and blankets, which contribute to the room's texture, shape, and overall functionality while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The entire tour underscores a design approach that balances visual appeal with everyday practicality and personal significance. #Arhaus #Decor #FiddleLeafFig #FrameTV #Home #InteriorDesign #LivingRoom #Modern #Neutral #Transitional

Julia Kramer, a former Bon Appétit editor, and her husband, Zach Kaplan, purchased a Craftsman home in Koreatown, Los Angeles, sight unseen during the early days of the pandemic. The decision was primarily influenced by a stained-glass peacock window in the dining room, which resonated with their family's experience visiting live peacocks at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. This personal connection served as a significant sign, making the long-distance purchase feel destined. The couple, still residing in their two-bedroom apartment in New York’s Upper West Side, relied on an L.A.-based friend to view the property shortly after it was listed before making an offer. Following the purchase, and with only six weeks until their move, Kramer and Kaplan enlisted the help of Jamie Haller, an experienced Craftsman restorer and shoe designer. Haller's primary task was to modernize certain aspects of the home while also stripping away inappropriate additions, such as built-in speaker systems in the living room and kitchen, and numerous recessed lights. The goal was to preserve the original character and 'good stuff' of the Craftsman style. Kramer, who was largely put off by the ubiquity of newly remodeled kitchens featuring subway tile and open shelves during her house hunt, found the untouched, wood-heavy kitchen of this home particularly appealing. She expressed a preference for living without common countertop materials like marble and granite and appreciated the kitchen's separation from other rooms, allowing her personal space while cooking. Restoration efforts in the kitchen focused on subtle yet crucial updates. Haller oversaw the replacement of awning window chains with historically accurate hardware, a task that required considerable effort to source and install. She emphasized 'restraint' in the renovation process, focusing on making the space functional without sacrificing its original charm. A carpenter was brought in to repair the track of the old-fashioned bread box's garage door, ensuring its safe operation. While the kitchen lacks modern amenities like soft-close hinges, it retains a distinct 'soul' that appealed to the owners. One of the most challenging projects was the living room, where plaster walls had been covered in blue silk dupioni fabric and secured with an estimated 45,000 staples. Removing these staples was a laborious process, taking a week of manual effort. The focal point of the revitalized living room became Kramer’s vintage coffee table, a 1stdibs acquisition, which uniquely functions as a champagne and shrimp cocktail station, with its inverted center perfectly accommodating her ice bucket. Haller also had to source new lighting fixtures, as the previous owners took the originals. She turned to a salvage shop in Los Angeles known for preserving lights from Old Hollywood celebrity homes, finding an antique sconce for the guest bedroom’s salvaged sink that once belonged to Buster Keaton. Distinguishing this Craftsman from others, the home features dark, purple-hued mahogany wood rather than the typical red-orange Douglas fir. This unique wood tone harmonizes surprisingly well with subtle pink accents, such as the original fireplace grout and the new dining room walls, which were painted a soft dusty lavender-gray. Haller noted that the natural light interacting with these elements creates a warm glow. Due to the tight renovation schedule, restoring the painted wood trim was not feasible. Instead, it was repainted in Farrow & Ball’s dark navy shade, Railings, to achieve a cohesive look. In contrast to the home’s more vibrant areas, the main bedroom adopted a softer palette, transforming its previous purple walls into a serene cream. Kramer, typically drawn to maximalist designs, was swayed by Haller’s vision for a neutral, tranquil space. The bedroom renovation included creating two closets on either side of the bed by reallocating space from an adjacent children’s room, and adding a built-in reading nook with a tufted cushion, which serves as Kramer’s preferred work-from-home spot. For the children’s bedrooms, Kramer and Haller exercised a different form of restraint, opting for allover wallpapers with prints that strike a balance between kid-friendly and adult-approved aesthetics. Kramer expressed her desire to postpone 'ugly child spaces,' choosing whimsical crane designs by House of Hackney for her youngest son's room and a floral print by the same brand for the bathroom. She found that the numerous built-ins in the large bathroom helped to break up the busy floral pattern effectively. The various bird motifs throughout the home, from the initial peacock window to the crane wallpaper, have become a personal symbol of good fortune for Kramer. #HomeTour #CraftsmanHome #LosAngelesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SightUnseenPurchase #HistoricPreservation #VintageDecor #FamilyHome

This article explores seven vintage home details that design experts believe deserve a comeback in contemporary homes. The discussion begins with antique furniture, highlighting how these unique pieces can be repurposed for modern functionality, as exemplified by a vintage wardrobe transformed into a custom bar cabinet. The emphasis is on their quality and distinct character compared to mass-produced items. High-quality hardware is another key element. Designers advocate for living finishes like oil-rubbed bronze and unlacquered brass for doorknobs and cabinet pulls, which develop a rich patina over time, adding historical character. Specific mention is made of drop pulls for their period-appropriate aesthetic, enriching even new constructions with a sense of soul. Skiffers, or corner protectors, are presented as a practical yet aesthetically pleasing vintage detail. Historically used to prevent wall damage, these brass-typically-made protectors are now available in various metals, offering both protection and a decorative touch. Floor registers, often overlooked, are identified as small but significant details that can elevate a home's practical elements. Historically inspired cast iron or simple wooden registers are suggested to restore or add vintage character. Intricate woodwork, such as picture frame molding and ceiling medallions, is highlighted for its ability to instantly elevate a space without appearing overly ornate. The article notes its accessibility, whether through restoration of original features or addition to newer homes, offering a charming and refined aesthetic. Exterior details also receive attention, with shutters and window boxes recommended for enhancing a home's curb appeal. While modern shutters are largely aesthetic, proper scaling to windows and the use of authentic 'gutter dogs' (hardware) are crucial for maintaining historical accuracy and character. Finally, push plates are discussed as a functional and elegant solution to prevent smudges and wear on doors. These vintage metal plates, typically installed above doorknobs, offer a blend of practicality and intricate design, protecting door finishes from natural hand oils. Overall, the article champions these vintage elements for their ability to add unique character, historical depth, and refined style to any home, often affordably and even in renter-friendly ways. #VintageHomeDetails #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntiqueFurniture #ArchitecturalSalvage #HomeHardware #WoodworkDetails #ExteriorDesign #TimelessStyle

The "Gingerbread House" in Larchmont, a historic summer cottage built in 1872 near Manor Beach, underwent a comprehensive interior redesign to suit an active young family with three daughters. Designer Laurie Scovotti was tasked with lightening the home's interiors while preserving its unique character, which includes rich millwork and whimsical architectural details. The primary directive was to create a brighter, more youthful, and modern feel within the Victorian Gothic structure. Scovotti achieved this by juxtaposing the home's original architecture with relaxed, clean-lined furnishings and a vibrant palette of colors and patterns. Blue tones were established as a grounding hue, reflecting the family's passion for sailing and the home's coastal proximity, complemented by accents of pinks, greens, and floral motifs. The exterior also received a fresh update, with a classic white complemented by light blue trim, following a collaboration with color consultant Debra Kling. The large living room was cleverly divided into two distinct areas. One section was designed for intimate conversations around the fireplace, featuring deep-blue velvet chairs and an airier feel created by a lighter-colored stone mantel surround. The homeowners' existing art pieces, including watery prints and a colorful painting, were integrated into the decor. The other side of the living room, bathed in natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, evokes a summery ambiance with light blues and pinks, anchored by a large blue coffee table and softened by subtly patterned drapes. Dark crown molding in several rooms was painted to reduce visual weight, though a prominent wood beam in the living room ceiling was retained. In the dining room, a dramatic "Inisfree" wallpaper by Carrier and Company for Lee Jofa served as the foundational design element. The low ceiling was visually elevated by painting it in Benjamin Moore Smoke, a shade also applied to the millwork around the mantel, which itself received a fresh coat of white paint. The space was kept calm and neutral with a wool-and-jute rug, a delicate glass chandelier, and refined dining chairs, with rounded doorways providing elegant transitions. The former passthrough area was transformed into a functional bar room, blending traditional elements, such as the homeowners' rug, with mid-century pieces like a rattan bar cabinet and leather chairs. The walls, painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Jamestown Blue,” contribute to a relaxed lounging atmosphere. The husband's office was designed to balance wood-paneled walls with a bright blue ceiling, and heavy curtains were replaced with unlined woven shades. A metal-and-glass desk adds a modern touch, and built-in shelves display personal items like sailing trophies and books. A hallway connecting bedrooms was updated into a vibrant lounge space, featuring durable vinyl grass cloth on the walls, a cleverly concealed electrical panel behind artwork, and an array of pillows in various prints and textures to add brightness and energy. Each of the daughters' rooms was personalized according to their preferred color themes, with Scovotti expanding on these palettes. For instance, the oldest daughter's room incorporated softened primary colors around a floral "Carly" wallpaper, providing a fun and adaptable space. Another girl's bedroom balanced dark window trim with modern furniture and bold patterns, utilizing blue-and-green fabrics and mint-green walls to create a peaceful yet youthful environment. The primary bedroom, a serene retreat for the couple, heavily features blues. The decor is light and bright, with dark blue accents on the bed frame and a Greek-key pattern on the drapes. A four-poster bed from Maiden Home is strategically placed to maximize the water view, and a comfortable armchair was reupholstered in a vintage Schumacher print. The wife's dressing room, located at the top of a spiral staircase, functions as an office with an impressive view. Drapes in a blue-and-white Schumacher fabric frame a circular window, and a burlwood desk lightens the room's darker wood elements. A nautical compass inlay on the floor adds a decorative touch. Scovotti also provides advice for incorporating color into a home, suggesting starting with impactful but not overwhelming additions like large artwork or upholstered chairs, rather than painting entire rooms, and encouraging individuals to trust their intuition regarding color choices. #HistoricHomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendlyDesign #LarchmontHome #LaurieScovotti #ColorPalette #ModernVictorian #CoastalDecor #HomeRedecoration

This Melbourne residence, owned by artist Kylie Thomas and her husband Tim Collier, underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a Federation home with a dated 1990s extension into a versatile space that functions both as a grand art gallery and a comfortable family sanctuary. When the couple acquired the property in 2015, they were drawn to its generous garden and the original Federation architecture, characterized by ornate timber detailing, bay windows, and a wraparound verandah. However, the existing open-plan addition from the 1990s presented challenges with poor flow, lack of zoning, and an awkward 45-degree angle that didn't integrate seamlessly with the older part of the house. The prevalent red timbers also contributed to an outdated aesthetic. Architect Chris Stanley of Splinter Society was tasked with a multi-faceted brief: to incorporate concrete's monumentality, which the owners appreciated, while maintaining sensitivity to the heritage home's elegant and flamboyant details. Additionally, a coastal feel, with weathered, driftwood tones, was desired to soften the concrete elements. The overarching goal was to harmoniously blend contrasting styles—old and new, grandeur and family warmth—and ensure a seamless connection with the extensive backyard. Stanley addressed the 1990s addition by replacing it with a new extension featuring a striking colonnade of windows framing the pool. These concrete columns visually echo the timber uprights of the Federation verandah, establishing a commonality between the heritage and modern sections. The colonnade extends throughout the new areas, mitigating sunlight and providing a monumental presence without being overwhelming. Infilled with banquettes and lit with spotlights, these spaces also serve as display areas for Kylie's art. A new entry on the south side now acts as a clear transition point between the old and new, creating distinct zones for family living. The original section of the house, previously a living room, has been reconfigured to house the children's bedrooms, each with an ensuite, emphasizing private spaces. The new open-plan extension, while maintaining connectivity, is effectively zoned by the columns, which function as nib walls, allowing family members to engage in different activities simultaneously. The material palette includes light-toned concrete, chosen to evoke a washed, coastal aesthetic, complemented by limed timber floors in the original section. The design prioritizes warmth through the strategic use of timber, curtains, and rugs, and incorporates judicious pops of color in furnishings, selected with the assistance of interior designer Danielle Balscheit. The kitchen, designed as a central gathering space, integrates the colonnade and concrete with metal-framed windows, a scalloped metal bench finish, and a soaring raked ceiling with a skylight, enhancing natural light. This area fosters a strong indoor-outdoor connection with views of the meadow, creating a feeling of spaciousness and height. The home also features practical considerations like heated concrete floors, providing comfort year-round. This thoughtful renovation has successfully transformed the property into a dynamic space that balances the homeowner's artistic inclinations with the needs of a modern family, bridging historical elegance with contemporary design. #HeritageHomeRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalTransformation #ConcreteDesign #ArtGalleryHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalInteriors #IndoorOutdoorFlow #FederationArchitecture

Jennifer Liffman's journey into interior design began in 2012 during a vacation in Florida, where an encounter with Coastal Living’s Ultimate Beach House ignited a long-dormant passion. Despite this initial spark, her formal pursuit of design education did not commence until early 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, while at home with her family, Jennifer enrolled in a distance-learning program at the New York Institute of Art and Design, delving into various aspects of interior design from hand drafting to space planning. This educational experience culminated in the launch of her own design firm in 2022, and she subsequently joined the interiors team at Craft Realty/Interiors/Homes. Simultaneously with her professional development, Jennifer applied her burgeoning design expertise to her family's late-1960s ranch-style home in Jefferson Terrace. The Liffmans had moved into the home in August 2016 and initiated a series of renovations to align the space with their family's lifestyle. Exterior modifications included painting the brick for a more contemporary aesthetic, while interior changes involved replacing carpeting and tile with wood flooring and expanding the opening between the foyer and living room. These foundational updates paved the way for personalization, with each space being brightened and infused with unique touches. The renovation project was a collaborative family endeavor. Jennifer’s father, John Hawkins, contributed significantly by constructing custom shelves and cabinets for the living room, laundry room, and primary suite bathroom. Her husband, Eric, applied Venetian plaster finishes to select walls, adding textural depth. The home also became a showcase for art, prominently featuring works by Eric’s mother, artist Christy Diniz-Liffman, as well as pieces from other professional artists within their extended family, reflecting the couple's shared appreciation for art. A central theme in Jennifer's decorating philosophy is the integration of meaningful artworks, antique furnishings, and heirloom pieces that carry sentimental value. Examples include an antique iron bed and desk in her daughter Emma’s room, which previously belonged to Eric’s sister, and recovered wingback chairs from her grandmother that now grace the living room. Her coffee table exemplifies this blend of old and new, featuring an antique wood base paired with a new limestone top. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of creating thoughtful, collected spaces that blend time-honored items with contemporary elements, as seen with a hutch in her dining room, a piece inherited from her grandmother that she uses daily. The transformation of her home remains an ongoing process, with Jennifer continuously applying her evolving design skills to spaces like the master bedroom. Beyond her personal residence, she and the Craft Interiors team are actively involved in designing custom finishes for luxury home builds and are preparing for a significant 5,000-square-foot remodel. Jennifer acknowledges that her personal style is still developing and embraces the eclectic nature of her home, which accommodates her growing children, pets, and the continuous evolution of her design aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #FamilyProject #EclecticStyle #AntiqueFurniture #HeirloomPieces #HomeDecor #DesignCareer

This article offers a glimpse into the Melbourne home of photographer and author Robyn Lea, showcasing her unique approach to interior design. The residence is a two-storey Victorian home with five bedrooms located in Melbourne's inner-eastern suburbs, where Robyn resides with her husband Tim Hunt, their two children, Isabella and Freddie, and their Beagalier puppy, Magnolia. The family undertook an extensive renovation of the home approximately 12 years prior to the publication of this article, subsequently enlisting Penelope Scott Interiors for window furnishings. Robyn Lea's office is highlighted as her favorite room, described as an evolving space filled with inspiring books, artworks, and various objects. This includes Italian-made plates by La DoubleJ, artworks by Charles Pollock, Nathalie Lété, and John Benn, and four distinct wallpapers, reflecting a constantly changing installation. The sitting room features a mural by Russian artist Ekaterina Panikanova, complemented by chairs from Early Settler and a table from Family Love Tree. The home's collection also includes numerous paintings by artist John Benn, a family friend. The neighborhood where the home is situated is characterized as small, with local cafes, shops, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Robyn expresses her ongoing intention to continuously evolve the interior homescape, viewing it as a natural extension of her visual storytelling through photography and writing about artists. Her advice for decorating is to personalize the space, stating, "Decorate to please yourself – it’s your nest, after all. If you love it, it will love you right back." A significant detail mentioned is Robyn's initial attraction to the home, which was influenced by a majestic magnolia tree in the back garden, reminding her of 'The Magic Faraway Tree.' #EclecticHome #InteriorDesign #MelbourneHomes #PhotographersHome #VictorianArchitecture #ArtisticInteriors #HomeRenovation #PersonalizedDecor

Sarah Southwell, a former handbag designer, has transitioned her creative flair from fashion to interior design, establishing her studio in 2020 after a series of successful home renovations in London. Her most ambitious project to date is her family home, a 21-room Grade II-listed manor house located in the Somerset Levels. This extensive renovation showcases Southwell's distinctive approach to country style, characterized by a blend of elegance, eccentricity, and a 'generational layering' philosophy that expertly combines old and new elements. Sarah and her husband, Nick, acquired the manor in 2021, moving from London to provide their three sons with a more spacious environment. Despite being warned by the estate agent about the significant renovation required, the couple was drawn to the property's original features, such as its mullioned windows and historic front door. The renovation process was comprehensive, addressing issues ranging from hundred-year-old plumbing and crumbling plaster to the complete absence of a heating system. With the assistance of approximately 20 local tradespeople and funds from their previous London property sale, they undertook the extensive overhaul, including replastering all rooms with traditional lime, a necessity for listed buildings. Southwell's design aesthetic prioritizes a 'perfectly imperfect' look. She achieved this by using lime-based paint throughout the house, mimicking the mottled tones of plaster. The kitchen features Bauwerk’s Ibiza limewash, reclaimed pine floorboards, British Standard units, and Arabescato marble worktops, creating a contemporary yet classic feel. An adjoining utility space adds a playful touch with units painted in deVOL’s Scullery Yellow. The home is adorned with unique finds from flea markets and antique fairs, reflecting Sarah's passion for vintage items, such as a Transylvanian hand-painted folk art cupboard in the playroom and 18th-century Indian doors repurposed for the master bathroom. Creative and whimsical elements are evident throughout the manor, particularly in the children's spaces. The bedroom shared by Sarah's two eldest sons boasts a circus-themed ceiling painted by Eugenia Barrios Osborne, complemented by custom-made bed canopies and antique furniture sourced from local dealers. The color palette in this room includes Farrow & Ball's Rectory Red and Babouche mustard-yellow. A notable feature of the home is its incorporation of 'hidden nooks and secret doorways,' a reflection of Southwell's design philosophy that a house, much like a handbag, benefits from concealed compartments. An example is a hidden cubbyhole in a former attic, accessible via a wooden ladder, designed to create a magical space for her sons. Additionally, a hidden drinks bar is cleverly camouflaged by wallpaper in the downstairs lavatory, adding a surprising element for adult guests. Following the completion of this significant renovation, Sarah Southwell now leverages her expertise to assist other clients in realizing their design aspirations, operating with a comprehensive approach to interior styling. #InteriorDesign #ManorRenovation #CountryStyle #HistoricHome #LimeWashPaint #VintageFinds #HiddenSpaces #FamilyHome #EclecticDecor

This blog post explores the transformation of a historic colonial revival home dating back to 1895 in Newton Center, Massachusetts. The owners sought to update their property with a glamorous, sexy, and elegant aesthetic, while simultaneously restoring and enhancing its original architectural features. The project aimed to integrate sympathetic interior décor with a contemporary flair from the 2020s. Before addressing the design details, the primary challenge involved removing uncomplimentary architectural additions from the 1940s, 80s, and 90s, particularly a deteriorating 1980s kitchen. Designer Cecilia Casagrande was commissioned to address these challenges, focusing on enhancing the home's original architecture while adapting it for modern living. Her approach successfully blended original period details with quirky and glamorous contemporary touches. The kitchen redesign, for instance, drew inspiration from the client’s Turkish Iznik pottery collection and antique rugs, transforming a drab 1980s space into a bright, open area. The design incorporated a mix of midcentury, antique, and modern elements, evident in pairings like a midcentury side table with a modern bed frame, or a curved sofa with modern lamps. The breakfast nook features an antique pedestal table and vintage dining chairs, harmonizing with the updated kitchen. The cabinet colors, specifically Farrow & Ball’s Paean Black and Benjamin Moore’s Yorktowne Green, were inspired by the blue hues of the Turkish plate collection. The kitchen also boasts vintage rugs from Afghanistan, brass taps by Barber Wilson, and handmade tiles from Winchester Tile in England, along with green stone accents, contributing to a worldly and earthy feel. The living room, characterized by intricate wood detailing and an impressive bay window, features walls, trim, and ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue. This bold color choice maintains the modernity of the ornate trim while creating a cozy Victorian parlor ambiance. Natural walnut elements on doors and trim are highlighted with a clear poly finish. The room includes a midcentury vintage sofa upholstered in mohair blue velvet, complemented by a rounded Jonathan Adler Danner sofa and Kelly Wearstler lamps to create a “sexy vibe.” Midcentury furnishings, such as a reupholstered Thayer Coggin swivel chair and a new Thayer Coggin Roxy chair, along with a round midcentury pi-coffee table and Moroccan inlaid side tables, contribute to a global aesthetic through eclectic accessories sourced internationally. A vibrant artwork by Hunt Slonem in a gilt frame and a vintage carved sideboard add glamour to a corner of the living room. The dining room reflects the clients' vision with quirky contemporary elements like Cole & Son Leopard Walk wallpaper and a stag chandelier sourced from Germany. Iconic midcentury Saarinen chairs and a stunning Suzani tablecloth complete the eclectic and joyful space, which is described as Victorian modern. The upstairs landing serves as an inviting seating area, utilizing natural light from an original gothic-detailed 1895 window and featuring French-style armchairs and a chess set. The primary bedroom showcases pastel pinks, blending antique, vintage, and modern furnishings. Brass elements, such as Sarreid chests, an antique mirror, and an Alexa Hampton ceiling light, add character. Walls are painted in Farrow & Ball's Middleton Pink with trim in Dove Tail, while House of Hackney and Timorous Beasties pillows, a modern champagne velvet bed, and a faux sheepskin swivel chair balance the vintage pieces. The bathroom features a Penhaglion cast iron tub in unlacquered brass, a striking choice for the historic home, complemented by classic marble tiles, Timorous Beasties curtains, and brass accents, offering a modern twist on traditional design. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the transformation, noting that each room was thoughtfully designed and inspired by their existing collections, making the renovation a collaborative effort from architectural restoration to fabric selection. The project successfully honored the home's original features while introducing contemporary humor and subtle updates. #HistoricHomeRenovation #ColonialRevival #InteriorDesign #BoldColorSchemes #VictorianModern #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDecor #BedroomIdeas #BathroomDesign

The Cochran family, including parents Sheryl and David, and sons Luke and Matt (with wife Courtney), shares a distinct interior design aesthetic characterized by a blend of modern, vintage, and quirky elements. This aesthetic has evolved through their shared love for music, art, and eclectic pieces, with the parents' curated home inspiring their sons' living spaces. David Cochran, an artist, contributes significantly to their art collections, and family painting sessions further enrich their homes' decor. The siblings' individual design choices also influence each other, with new finds by one often sparking ideas for the other. Courtney and Matt Cochran’s historic home in the Fan District, built in 1909, exemplifies this shared style. They meticulously preserved the home's original charm, refinishing floors and retaining existing chandeliers to maintain its inherent grandeur. Their approach to furnishing involved a slow and deliberate process of acquiring pieces from estate sales, antique markets, and local stores like Class and Trash. The entryway features an original crystal chandelier juxtaposed with an industrial console table and an African elephant mask, showcasing their ability to blend diverse styles. The dining and living area combines a West Elm dining table with midcentury modern chairs and a velvet sofa, illuminated by vintage stained-glass panels. The use of subtle color notes and carefully chosen art and decor creates a harmonious space that seamlessly merges new and old. Luke Cochran's South Side Richmond home also reflects the family's aesthetic, with his mother, Sheryl, providing design guidance. Renovations in Luke's home were minimal, primarily focusing on removing walls to create a more open layout, thereby preserving its original character. His design philosophy centers around unique pieces, such as an antique carved wooden cabinet sourced from Circa in Charlottesville, which is contrasted with contemporary gold lamps. The dining room features deep blue walls and modern cabinets, softened by a wooden pantry door from Caravati’s in Ashland. A retrofuturistic Sputnik-inspired light fixture bridges modern features with warm wooden elements, resulting in a refined yet comfortable atmosphere. Across both homes, a consistent theme emerges: the juxtaposition of furniture with eclectic art collections and luxurious mirrors. This common stylistic thread connects the generations, illustrating how a shared passion for design can manifest uniquely in different living spaces while still retaining a familial signature. Each home, while reflecting the individual tastes and travel experiences of its occupants, maintains an inviting ambiance where art, music, and creativity are central to the living experience. This intergenerational influence and the conscious curation of diverse elements define the Cochran family's interior design approach. #homes #interiorDesign #homeDecor #families #antiques #vintageStyle #artCollections #eclecticDecor

In a world increasingly dominated by fast construction and modern conveniences, many new homes often lack the unique character and soul found in older, period homes. These historic residences, ranging from grand Victorian houses with intricate gingerbread trim to charming brick abodes and brownstones, often come with a rich history and a distinctive charm that modern builds struggle to replicate. While these older homes may require significant renovation, not every space necessitates a complete overhaul. Interior designers emphasize the importance of preserving certain original features to maintain the home's authenticity and historical integrity, even when updating it for contemporary living. According to interior designer Phillip Thomas, old homes possess an inherent authenticity, having endured through generations and been cherished by various families. He views working on such properties as a rewarding challenge, often involving peeling back layers of past renovations to restore the house to its original glory while preparing it for its next chapter. Allison Babcock, another interior designer, shares this sentiment, appreciating the character and patina that handcrafted elements from a bygone era bring to a home. She notes that while modern products offer efficiency, they rarely match the unique character of older components, making preservation a worthwhile endeavor. One of the primary features designers recommend preserving is the original wood flooring. Thomas explains that wood in older homes was typically harvested from old-growth trees, resulting in denser material with more interesting grain patterns and superior strength to withstand daily wear. This contrasts sharply with modern flooring, which often comes from younger, softer wood with less distinct grain. Similarly, antique ceiling beams, particularly those made of solid, old-growth wood, are crucial for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Babcock highlights their handcrafted nature and the stories they tell through their aged patina, suggesting that a natural, raw finish is ideal. Doors are another element worth saving. Older homes often feature solid wood doors, a stark contrast to many contemporary doors made with veneers over plywood or Masonite. Even if the doors themselves cannot be salvaged, their hardware often can be. Thomas considers door hardware a critical detail, noting that vintage pieces are often unique and can be refurbished for less than the cost of new, generic hardware. Clawfoot cast iron tubs are also highly valued for their vintage charm and superior heat retention compared to modern soaking tubs, making restoration a preferable option. Railings in old homes, often overlooked, frequently boast rich carvings that are difficult and expensive to replicate today. Thomas collaborates with artisans to meticulously restore these railings, removing layers of paint and dirt to reveal their original beauty. Lastly, radiator grilles and registers, common in older homes, are often intricate brass works of art. Restoring these unique components can add a distinctive touch, differentiating them from mass-produced modern alternatives. Preserving these elements helps retain the historical essence and charm that define an old home. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #Preservation #VintageDecor #ArchitecturalDetails #DesignerTips #CharacterHome