A Midcentury Turin Home Gets a Careful Update (Published 2024)

Joelle Bradley and Brad Anderson meticulously renovated their 1968 Burnaby home, transforming it from a 'time-capsule' with green carpeting and a sparkly popcorn ceiling into a modernized mid-century California rancher. The couple purchased the home in 2008, recognizing its strong architectural 'bones' and potential. Situated on an 8,000-square-foot terraced property overlooking Deer Lake Park, the 1,400-square-foot residence also featured a large, unfinished basement with high ceilings and a walkout to the backyard. Bradley, an enthusiast of mid-century modern architecture and collectibles, and an avid follower of retrorenovation.com, collaborated with architect Randy Bens and contractor Alan O’Rourke Construction. Their vision was to create a warm, period-appropriate modern aesthetic rather than a stark, minimalist contemporary design. A key consideration for the renovation, which was completed in stages over three years, was future accessibility; they planned for all essential living spaces to be on the main floor to accommodate potential health changes. The renovation began with the kitchen, which was redesigned as a galley kitchen featuring Nano glass doors that fold open to extend the living space onto the terrace, facilitating easy outdoor entertaining. The kitchen's design prominently incorporates avocado green quartz countertops from HanStone Quartz and cherry wood cabinetry, a nod to the color palettes of the late 1960s and 70s. The original linoleum flooring was replaced with Flexitec vinyl flooring that includes a subtle sparkle, echoing the mica glitter floors popular in the 60s. The open-concept living and dining areas received an environmentally friendly update with bamboo flooring laid diagonally. The original wood-burning fireplace was converted to gas, and natural light floods the space through multiple windows and a patio door leading to the upper deck. The master bedroom, located on the top floor, was transformed into a private sanctuary with bamboo flooring, vaulted ceilings, and an eggplant and buttercup yellow color scheme. The ensuite bathroom, originally a bedroom, was made wheelchair accessible, and a spacious dressing room with built-in storage was added. For their professional and personal pursuits, Bradley and Anderson developed home offices in the finished basement, which also serve as guest bedrooms. Anderson, a business instructor and science fiction writer, now has a dedicated space for writing his novel, 'Duataro,' while Bradley utilizes hers for sewing and gardening. The exterior of the home also underwent a significant renovation, with architect Randy Bens aiming for a long, low, and sleek modern look. This involved removing the gable roof above the carport and extending a new flat roofline. A trellis was incorporated over the kitchen’s terrace to diffuse light and define the outdoor space, while geometric concrete floral breeze blocks were used for partial privacy, a nod to 1960s decorative trends. A subtle ramp-like slope, instead of stairs, leads to the entry, reflecting the owners' forward-thinking approach to accessibility. The owners expressed their profound satisfaction with the renovation, intending to remain in their updated home indefinitely. Bradley also shared renovation advice, including starting early if moving out is necessary, using materials creatively for continuity and cost savings, finding reliable décor sources, and considering future needs during planning. #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #BurnabyRealEstate #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #AccessibilityDesign #SustainableMaterials #ExteriorRedesign #RetroInspired

The article details the transformation of Torre del Falco, an ancient tower and 19th-century farmhouse located in Italy’s Tuscia region north of Rome, into a unique residence. The property is part of Villa Lina, an estate owned by writer and filmmaker Paola Igliori. Initially left untouched due to its dilapidated state, the tower became a passion project for Igliori's son, Filippo Chia, in 2004 when he was 21 years old and studying photography. Despite being uninhabited since the 1950s and covered in brambles with a collapsed roof, the structure retained traces of its original pastel-colored interiors, sparking Chia's desire to salvage it. The restoration process involved architect Pietro Belei and was guided by old photographs to accurately reconstruct the volume of the main house, the old tower, and an adjacent pavilion. Chia aimed to create a space that reflected the eclectic spirit of the other houses on the Villa Lina estate, drawing inspiration from the region's rich history, which blends the elegance of Renaissance villas with the rustic charm of medieval farmhouses. The facade of Torre del Falco, for instance, was finished with a stone-colored plaster, echoing the Villa Lante della Rovere in nearby Bagnaia, a Renaissance landmark once belonging to Igliori’s maternal family. Interior design choices also paid homage to local traditions and Chia's personal interests. In the main living room, triangular pigeonholes, a common feature in regional rural architecture, were incorporated. Chia also drew inspiration from other Italian locales, including Naples and Capri. He salvaged hand-painted tiles for the kitchen and bathrooms from Villa Quattro Venti in Capri, a historic home partially owned by his family. The minimalist open staircase in Torre del Falco is a nod to Capri's modernist Villa Malaparte. Chia's interest in Roman archaeology is evident in the ground-floor library, which features an Etruscan-style vase and murals inspired by Pompeii and Herculaneum. The guest rooms showcase further historical references, such as a Louis XV caned bed, a 19th-century faux-marble nightstand, and natural ocher stucco walls. The Neapolitan tile floor, hand-painted to resemble parquet, reflects 19th-century artistry. The house is adorned with art from friends, including an engraved print by Lola Schnabel. Chia also learned an ancient Roman method for laying terra-cotta floors from civil engineer and art collector Giorgio Franchetti, employing a checkerboard pattern with seams filled with a mixture of marble dust, white cement, and water. Torre del Falco is characterized as a 'capriccio' or 'folly'—a structure driven by creative expression and a desire to revive lost worlds, making it an experimental yet timeless home. #ItalianCountryside #TowerRenovation #HistoricHome #ArchitecturalRestoration #InteriorDesign #TusciaRegion #FilippoChia #VillaLina #CapriccioArchitecture

This article details the seven-year restoration project undertaken by Gustavo Antonioni, a former Hollywood executive, to transform an 18th-century nobleman's villa, Masseria Partemio, in Puglia, Italy, into a stylish and soulful home. Antonioni, a cosmopolitan individual born in Argentina to Italian and Greek parents and raised in Mexico, moved to the U.S. in the early 1980s. After falling in love with Puglia's raw beauty during a visit in 2010, he decided to pursue a career change and search for a property in the region. The villa, located in Latiano, was a derelict masseria (agricultural estate) spanning over 40 acres, which had been vacant for nearly five decades and was inhabited by approximately 200 goats when Antonioni first encountered it. The property lacked basic amenities like electricity, heat, and running water, and its structure was in a state of decay, with no foundation, floor tiles, or windows. Despite its dilapidated condition, Antonioni was captivated by the estate's energy and historical significance, noting its unique blend of Spanish, Greek, and Italian architecture. The property, Parts of the Palladian structure date to 1753, when it was built as a hunting lodge, while sections of it, including a Moorish-style tower, were added in the mid-1800s. It was later owned by Benedictine nuns and then a wealthy family. The acquisition process itself was challenging, as the property was not initially for sale and was entangled in family disputes common to historic properties in Puglia. Antonioni finally closed on the property in June 2017. Antonioni, who holds a degree in architecture from Carnegie Mellon and has experience with renovations in London, Miami, and Los Angeles, was drawn to the historical preservation aspect of the project. He collaborated with local architect Maria Formosi, known for her work on churches in southern Puglia, to navigate the region's strict rules for renovating historic buildings. The restoration aimed to integrate ancient elements with contemporary desires, respecting traditional materials and building techniques. For instance, the distinctive Pompeian-red and ochre-yellow facade colors were recreated using traditional methods, including boiling animal bones and mixing the paste with ferrous oxide. Inside, the renovation revealed striking blue frescoes beneath layers of calcium paint, commonly used as a disinfectant. The 13 vaults of the house, each forming an eight-pointed star, had to be reinforced. Antonioni opted for contemporary flooring, using terrazzo made from marble chips and cement, and traditional cementina tiles in the entry. The decor features a seamless blend of local crafts, linen upholstery, and Antonioni’s personal art collection. Significant structural changes included combining four small rooms into a large living area and converting the eastern stable into suites using recycled materials, and the western stable into a modern kitchen and dining room with stainless-steel counters and custom oak tables. The project, initially estimated to take three years, extended to over seven due to challenges such as conflicts with contractors, pushback from city officials, and the global pandemic. Antonioni temporarily left for two years to work remotely in the Netherlands before returning with a more relaxed approach to complete the renovation. The property now features a unique swimming pool inspired by 1970s Capri, and the Moorish-style tower serves as a social hub for gatherings. Antonioni moved into Masseria Partemio in June 2024 and plans to convert a smaller structure into a guest house and operate the estate as a luxury bed-and-breakfast, embodying the Italian saying, “Slowly, slowly, you will go far.” #Puglia #Italy #HistoricRenovation #VillaRestoration #MasseriaPartemio #HomeDesign #ItalianArchitecture #GustavoAntonioni #LuxuryRealEstate

Interior designer Sarah Magness undertook the renovation of an early 19th-century property in Panzano, Italy, transforming it into a modern Tuscan villa while preserving its historical essence. The project involved a main villa, a barn, and a guesthouse, focusing on a design that harmonized with the natural landscape and abundant sunlight of Tuscany. Magness was particularly drawn to the property's orientation, where major rooms face west, providing spectacular sunset views. The homeowner, a long-standing client, desired a residence that felt integrated with its tree-lined surroundings, capable of hosting family and social gatherings comfortably, and featuring subtle traditional and historical influences without being overly ornate. The existing structures provided an ideal foundation, as their original design already promoted excellent air and light circulation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. Consequently, the main house's floor plan remained largely unchanged, with no interior walls moved due to its robust original construction. While the architectural integrity was largely maintained, the interiors, last renovated in the 1980s, required significant updates. Magness's approach honored Tuscany's architectural heritage through material selections, blending them with contemporary comfort. Much of the original terra-cotta flooring, wood beams, and plaster walls were preserved. Local craftsmen were employed to restore and clean surfaces, ensuring authenticity and quality. All marble used in the renovation was sourced from Carrara, and cabinetry was crafted by the Como-based company Promemoria, highlighting a commitment to local resources and expertise. The furnishing strategy combined antique pieces with new additions. The clients' appreciation for antiques meant that some prominent items inherited from the previous owners were integrated, contributing to a contemporary Italian aesthetic within the main house. The entrance features a barrel-vaulted brick ceiling and antique pieces that function as sculptural art, designed for circulation rather than prolonged dwelling. The dining room, also containing inherited antique furniture including a 19th-century sideboard, was enhanced with vertical mirrors to maximize natural light, particularly from the west-facing orientation. The formal living room maintains a minimalist, all-white aesthetic with comfortable sectionals, acknowledging that most entertaining occurs outdoors. A short distance from the main house, the former caretaker's residence, 'casa dei custodi,' was converted into a self-sufficient apartment with two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen. The most extensive transformation was the barn, initially the most dilapidated structure. Magness collaborated with New York–based architect Brian Boyle to extensively gut and refit it. This former hayloft now serves as a luxurious guesthouse, complete with two bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a central living room, a kitchen, and direct access to a pool. A key design element in the barn's renovation was relocating the staircase to the west wall, which allowed sunlight to illuminate both floors through a latticed window, a significant improvement from its previous dark, dungeon-like state. Magness emphasized working in harmony with the natural environment, ensuring that the redesigned spaces quietly fulfill the family's needs while respecting the existing character of the property. Magness underscores that despite extensive planning, the true understanding of a residence comes from experiencing it firsthand, observing how light interacts with the spaces, calling it a 'holistic experience.' #TuscanVilla #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ItalianCountryside #SarahMagness #ArchitecturalHeritage #LuxuryHome #HistoricPreservation #Panzano

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a century-old Sydney home, originally built in 1914, transforming it into a modern family residence. The property, located on a corner block near Centennial Park, underwent extensive refurbishment after being purchased in 2017 by a young professional couple. The house was in a state of disrepair, requiring new wiring, plumbing, a new kitchen, and repairs to a collapsing ceiling. The owners enlisted architect Carla Middleton to oversee the project, aiming to create a 'forever home' suitable for a growing family. Middleton describes the original house as dilapidated but an amazing blank canvas. The renovation strategy involved reducing the number of bedrooms from six to three, which would be housed in a newly constructed second storey. Conversely, the number of bathrooms was increased to four, plus a powder room, emphasizing quality over quantity in terms of sleeping quarters. On the ground level, the design focused on creating expansive living areas. The original front rooms were preserved and repurposed as family rooms, a study, and a sitting room. Great care was taken to restore original features such as skirtings, cornices, fireplaces, and stained-glass windows, maintaining the home's historic charm. A key design objective was to implement an open-plan living concept, moving away from the smaller, separated rooms of the previous home. The new extension at the rear features an 11x8-meter living space that seamlessly connects to a sun-drenched deck. Given the home's north-south orientation, a primary goal was to maximize natural light in this area. Carla Middleton achieved this through a striking void space that reaches 6.7 meters at its highest point and extensive glazing. This design ensures that the northern light floods the living/dining area and extends to the upstairs bedrooms overlooking the void. The exterior of the extension, clad in James Hardie Scyon cement-composite boards, contrasts with the original brick structure while subtly referencing its form through a new roofline composed of three gables. These gables correspond to the kitchen, dining, and living zones downstairs. The original hallway was also maintained as a central axis, creating a clear vista from the front door to the light-filled rear living space. For the interior design, Carla Middleton collaborated with the owners to establish a palette that blends her neutral, natural material preference with their crisp, contemporary style and appreciation for darker tones. This resulted in an interplay of black, white, and mid-grey hues, complemented by stone elements throughout the home. The kitchen, a focal point for entertaining, exemplifies this blend with black and white cabinetry by Holtz Joinery and Elba marble benchtops and splashback, featuring a substantial 4x1.3-meter island bench. The renovation was completed as the family grew, with the owners welcoming two children during the project, making the newly transformed space a comfortable and functional home. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #ModernExtension #SydneyArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #NaturalLightDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CarlaMiddletonArchitect #AustralianHomes

This article showcases six distinctive homes across the United States, each featuring significant Italian architectural and design influences. The properties range from historic estates to modern villas, demonstrating how Italian aesthetics, from grand Renaissance styles to rustic Tuscan elements, have been integrated into American residences. These homes highlight various Italian-inspired features, including Palladian windows, arched doorways, intricate stenciled beams, marble accents, and specific room designs like wine cellars and Italian farm-style kitchens. The first featured home, Villa Amore in San Antonio, Texas, was built in 1922 and commissioned for an Italian wife, reflecting classic Italian design with its arched doorways, Palladian windows, and a 1,000-bottle wine room. Its exterior boasts an imported marble fountain, a pool, and an al fresco fireplace, accompanied by a carriage house. Next is a Tuscan-style four-bedroom home on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, constructed in 2004. This property incorporates reclaimed beams, Italian stone, heart-of-pine floors, a 1,000-bottle wine room, and an Italian farm-style kitchen. Its waterfront location offers panoramic views, a pool, a private beach, and direct access to the Intercoastal Waterway. In Nyack, New York, Palazzo Mare stands as a 15th-century-style Venetian villa built in 2001 on the Hudson River. Characterized by its ornate front door, a grand staircase, 27-foot ceilings, and Corinthian columns, the villa also includes a master suite with a green marble bathroom and a spa tub. The property extends to a sandy beach, a pier, and a pool with a spa. The Rialto House in Venice, California, built in 1905, was part of Abbot Kinney's vision for "Venice of America." This four-bedroom home features hardwood floors, Islamo-Byzantine stained-glass windows, a marble-floored sunroom, and an Italian-tile bathroom. A notable addition is an 840-square-foot guesthouse situated above the garage. Casa del Sole in Newport, Rhode Island, is an early 20th-century Palladian mansion extensively renovated in 2017. Owned by former Olympic figure skater Michelle Kwan, the four-bedroom home showcases marble floors, a chef's kitchen, two fireplaces, and formal living and dining rooms that open to a loggia. The two-acre landscaped property includes a fire pit and various seating areas. Finally, the Rohlfing House in Attica, Indiana, an Italianate brick home built in 1887 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underwent a three-year renovation completed in 2010. This renovation preserved historical elements such as period fixtures, original woodwork, oil-on-canvas wall coverings, a stained-glass window, and the kitchen’s original sink and prep room. These properties collectively illustrate the enduring appeal and versatile application of Italian design principles in diverse American settings. #ItalianArchitecture #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #RealEstate #ArchitecturalStyles #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #TuscanStyle #VenetianVilla

This article explores the transformation of a 1910 Mediterranean Revival home in Seattle, which underwent a significant modern update while meticulously preserving its historic essence. The homeowners, with a young family, aimed to integrate contemporary systems and design elements without compromising the residence's original grandeur and craftsmanship. This ambitious vision was realized through the collaboration of Studio AM Architecture and Kelly Hohla Interiors, who balanced modern functionality with historical integrity. The initial challenge involved updating the home's outdated layout, which featured segmented spaces typical of its era, including separate areas for servants. Studio AM reconfigured the downstairs space by removing a back staircase, thereby enlarging the entry and improving circulation to the mudroom, powder room, and kitchen. This adjustment also enhanced sight lines to the kitchen and the outdoors, creating a more open and cohesive flow. Kelly Hohla Interiors introduced calm and textural hallway designs that seamlessly connect the original front door and period detailing with the refreshed interiors. Contemporary consoles with gilt detailing were strategically placed to contrast with the wainscoting and moldings, while modern artwork with geometric patterns subtly echoed the historical architectural elements. The kitchen's design exemplifies the juxtaposition of old and new, featuring a traditional black range hood and stove alongside contemporary lighting and a striking geometric tile backsplash. This mid-century style geometric motif is recurrent throughout the home, appearing perfectly integrated with the existing architecture. An adjacent dining nook was enhanced with a glass table and banquette seating, offering uninterrupted views of the backyard. Enlarged windows and glass doors in the kitchen, coupled with an open floor plan, significantly increased natural light and improved the connection to the home’s entertaining areas. The dining room, leading into a sunroom, showcases pared-back furniture, including a dark wood table and contemporary chairs, allowing the room's original architectural details to stand out. The smaller family room adopts a cozy atmosphere with a wrap-around taupe color scheme and a gray sectional sofa, drawing inspiration from an original fire surround for its paint effects. In contrast, the main living room features a more formal arrangement of armchairs and couches, whose curved forms complement the home's arched windows, alongside a gilded cabinet that adds a touch of modern glamor. The study is a notable space, blending dark wood paneling and bookcases with a decorative plasterwork ceiling and contemporary furnishings. A patterned rug and curtain fabric echo the ceiling motifs, creating a cohesive design. The primary bedroom, benefitting from new windows, is a serene space with a harmonious scheme of soft neutrals and blue accents, highlighted by a mid-century style chandelier and an upholstered bed. A child's bedroom features nature-inspired butterfly wallpaper, paneled walls, and geometric bedding, combined with luxurious touches like a pink stool and a gold lamp. Off the child's room, a den created from a covered balcony serves as a vibrant hangout space with extensive windows, a hanging rattan chair, and sofa beds for sleepovers. The family bathroom incorporates matching geometric wall and floor tiles, enhancing the definition of the space with smart detailing such as square drawer pulls and brass/gold fittings. The exterior maintains its whitewashed Mediterranean Revival aesthetic. This renovation project, while not historically registered, successfully transformed a well-known community landmark into a modern family home. The architects and designers carefully integrated contemporary systems and elements, using new fabrication methods to recreate historical details and ensure the home's longevity for future generations. The result is a residence that seamlessly marries modern comfort with historic grandeur, demonstrating that thoughtful design can bridge the gap between different eras. #HistoricHomeRenovation #MediterraneanRevival #ModernInteriorDesign #SeattleArchitecture #LuxuryHomes #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #ArchitecturalPreservation

Brandi and Scott Fuller embarked on a renovation journey for their 1914 Georgian home in Park Hill, Denver, intending to complete a few specific updates. Initially, their plans were modest, focusing on expanding and remodeling the kitchen, which felt too small for their combined family of seven and the 8,000-square-foot house. They also planned to add ensuite bathrooms to two upstairs bedrooms, a walk-in master bedroom closet, and a basement home gym. Despite their experience in the architecture and real estate industries, the Fullers did not anticipate the extensive scope their renovation project would ultimately encompass. What began as a "few things" quickly escalated into a near-complete transformation of their historic residence. The catalyst for this expansion was the discovery of a sagging kitchen floor, a result of a previous shoddy renovation. The architect, Toby Branch of Branch Architecture Studio, explained that addressing this structural issue required significant interventions in the basement, leading to a full structural remodel of the kitchen floor and the basement ceiling below. This, in turn, caused new cracks to appear in the main level's plaster walls, necessitating further repairs. The snowball effect continued throughout the house. The upstairs updates followed a similar pattern; converting two children's bedroom closets into bathrooms required unexpected construction, which then prompted Brandi and Scott to overhaul their master bathroom. While these projects were underway, they also decided to remodel the third-floor bathroom and bedrooms, restore a bedroom suite above the garage, replace most of the home's lead pipes, and install a new HVAC system. Brandi likened the process to getting a new sofa and then realizing the drapes and paint needed updating, illustrating how one improvement led to the desire for others. Outdoors, the initial plans to repair the original red-brick walls, sand, and paint also grew significantly. The architect enclosed the walkway between the garage and the house to create a new mudroom and added a French door and metal staircase connecting the kitchen to the yard. This enhancement transformed the yard into an additional living space, usable for a significant portion of the year. The property's original brick hardscaping now frames new plantings designed by Lifescape Colorado and artificial turf, which the Fullers chose to retain and integrate into the design due to shade and maintenance considerations. Ultimately, the renovations covered 6,000 square feet. Beyond the structural changes, a key challenge was to seamlessly blend the home's preserved original architectural details—such as old windows, millwork, wood-plank floors, marble fireplace surrounds, and even original call boxes—with modern updates. The kitchen served as a prime example of this vintage-meets-modern aesthetic. Mikal Otten, owner and lead designer of Exquisite Kitchen Design, created a "traditional kitchen with soft contemporary touches." This was achieved by incorporating simplified traditional elements, like custom cabinets with a subtle cove profile and a soft white brushstroke finish, and ethereal blue glass backsplash tiles that offer a contemporary nod to classic brick styles. A stainless steel farmhouse sink replaced traditional porcelain, providing a cleaner, edgier look, while a walnut coffee-bar armoire and chevron-patterned white oak flooring reintroduced turn-of-the-century flair, recalling a historical practice of special floor treatments in specific rooms. The floor coverings played a crucial role in anchoring the decor of each room. Brandi explained that they started with the rug in each room and built the design from there. For instance, the dining room's modern floral rug influenced the choice of silk shantung wallcovering, a branch-like brass chandelier, and clear Lucite chairs. In the living room, a neutral rug set the tone for gray crushed-velvet sofas, a marble-topped coffee table, and a ring-shaped crystal chandelier. The foyer featured a custom stair runner with a cherry-blossom pattern, complementing a midcentury-style credenza and bold custom artwork. The furnishings selected by Brandi and Scott represent a diverse mixture of styles, primarily transitional but incorporating midcentury, contemporary, and bohemian pieces, which Brandi noted "came together in the end." Branch attributed the project's success not just to luck, but to the inherent integrity and forgiving nature of century-old homes, which allow for structural repairs and modern updates without losing their original character. The complete transformation ultimately highlighted the enduring strength and beauty of the home's historic foundation. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #StructuralRenovation #ParkHillDenver #VintageModern #ArchitecturalPreservation

This article details the transformation of a 1925 Colonial home in Seattle's Montlake neighborhood, owned by Sally and Anders Zwartjes. The couple purchased the 3,000-square-foot house in 2016, drawn to its charm but recognizing the need for significant updates to accommodate a family of four, particularly the limited one and a half bathrooms and outdated features. Designer Casey Keasler of CASEWORK, a family friend, was enlisted to lead the extensive renovation. The project spanned a year and a half and involved both cosmetic changes, such as new flooring and fresh paint, and dramatic structural modifications. A 500-square-foot addition was integrated into the home, expanding its overall footprint. The primary goal was to modernize the living space for a contemporary family while respectfully preserving the colonial style and original architectural elements. Keasler emphasized the importance of functionality, collaborating with architect Paul Crowther to secure permits before focusing on the aesthetic details. A key aspect of the renovation involved altering the home's original layout to better suit the family's needs. This included the decision to convert one of the four original bedrooms into a full second bathroom, prioritizing utility over adherence to traditional room counts. This strategic choice highlights a flexible approach to renovation, where individual family requirements dictate design decisions rather than rigid conventions. The addition also included a larger kitchen, a significant item on Sally and Anders' wish list. This new kitchen features a classic white design, a breakfast nook, a pantry, and a mudroom, contributing to a brighter and more open feel throughout the home. The window-lined breakfast nook, in particular, was designed as a central gathering space for the family. Keasler aimed to balance the inherent seriousness and symmetry of colonial architecture with a more relaxed, Northwest aesthetic. This equilibrium was achieved through deliberate contrasts. Existing period details such as built-ins, cove ceilings, crown molding, and oak floors were maintained and refreshed. The millwork and built-ins, for example, replicated the intricate details of the original cabinetry, including the bead on the inside cabinet panels, ensuring consistency with the home's historical character. To introduce modern elements and create visual interest, Keasler incorporated contemporary furniture and light fixtures, often in mid-century, Scandinavian, or modern styles. Graphic-style rugs were also used to provide a modern accent against the traditional backdrop. The designer's tips for blending old and new include maintaining consistency with metal finishes, refreshing existing features like built-ins with new paint and hardware, and unifying the home's trim and molding with a consistent color and varying sheens to achieve a modern look. This project demonstrates that a careful integration of historical preservation and modern functionality can create a home that is both charming and highly livable. #ColonialHome #HomeRenovation #ModernFacelift #InteriorDesign #SeattleRealEstate #HistoricalPreservation #StructuralChanges #KitchenDesign #ContemporaryLiving

An outdated mid-century home in El Segundo, California, underwent a significant transformation, evolving into a two-story residence while meticulously preserving its original character. Interior designer Alexis Vitale of Vitale Design Group recognized the home's potential despite its dated finishes and disjointed layout. The clients desired a living space that could accommodate their growing family, emphasizing warmth, honesty in materials, and a natural flow, all while respecting the home's mid-century roots. The design approach centered on honoring classic mid-century architecture, incorporating clean lines, natural materials, and ample natural light, while integrating a refined, contemporary aesthetic. The project, a collaboration between Vitale and architect Brett Horton, aimed to enhance flow, light, and livability, treating the renovation as an uncovering of a 'precious stone' to reveal its true beauty. A pivotal element in the redesign was tile, particularly the fluted concrete tile by Kinney Block, which was used on the exterior and served as an 'architectural heartbeat' for the home. Its sculptural quality influenced the overall form and texture throughout the property. The interior palette was inspired by moody green tiles in the kitchen, leading to a sophisticated scheme of earthy greens balanced with walnut and wenge woods. Structural modifications included expanding the layout and adding a second story to improve the home's functionality. The kitchen is identified as the true heart of the home, showcasing a blend of mid-century charm and modern sophistication. It features lush green tiles, a fluted island, a leathered quartzite slab, and sculptural concrete pendants, all contributing to a warm and deep ambiance. The kitchen seamlessly transitions into the living room, which then leads to a dining room featuring a custom bookcase and the home's original fireplace. Skylights were incorporated to maximize natural light in these communal areas. The upper level of the home includes a tranquil primary suite, designed with a sumptuous blue velvet bed, dark woods, textured grass cloth, pitched ceilings, and leathered sconces. The primary bathroom offers a spa-like experience, enhanced by abundant natural light from skylights. Additional rooms upstairs include a playful, color-drenched kids' bedroom with vintage touches and guest bathrooms featuring interesting tile and terrazzo flooring. A notable addition on the second floor is an adults' hangout area, a bar featuring mid-century-inspired tile and wood, complemented by a deep orange sofa for lounging. The renovation carefully maintained the home's architectural DNA, retaining its clean lines, organic materials, and connection to nature, while modernizing its proportions and details. Every material choice, from the fluted concrete chimney to walnut millwork and plaster finishes, was selected to refresh the mid-century palette. New elements such as custom lighting, handcrafted tile, and thoughtful layering were integrated to respect the original design language and adapt it for contemporary living. The project, nicknamed 'The Jewel,' successfully transformed a dated residence into a home that reflects the homeowners' identity, blending mid-century character with modern life for effortless, timeless, and beautiful living. #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ElSegundo #VitaleDesignGroup #HomeTransformation #ArchitecturalRedesign #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor

Story Hill Renovations recently undertook a project to modernize a 1922 English Revival brick Tudor home located in Milwaukee’s Kenwood Park–Prospect Hill Historic District. The residence, originally designed by Clas, Shepherd & Clas for Edward and Ida Dahinden, presented the challenge of integrating contemporary living with its historic architectural integrity. The renovation focused on updating the kitchen and bathrooms while preserving the home’s original details, such as the subtly vaulted Gothic plaster living room ceiling, intricate plaster sloped and curved crown molding in the dining room, and original woodwork and radiators throughout the house. Karly Mandell, Story Hill Interior Designer, emphasized the philosophy of modernizing for today’s lifestyle without erasing the past. This approach guided material and fixture selections, with permanent fixtures like millwork, cabinetry, and plumbing adhering to the home's original style. More temporary elements, such as wallpaper, allowed for creative expression. An example of this is the striking skull wallpaper in a first-floor half-bath, which reflects the owners’ desire for a “punk rock country club” aesthetic. Similarly, new millwork and tile in an upstairs guest bathroom were designed to appear original to the century-old home, showcasing a blend of old and new. The historical context of the Dahinden family and the house itself provides a backdrop to the renovation. Edward Joseph Dahinden, born in Milwaukee in 1875, was a prominent businessman who, with his wife Ida, commissioned this home after relocating from the Near West Side to the more desirable upper East Side. The architectural firm of Clas, Shepherd & Clas, led by the renowned Alfred Clas, completed the house and a detached garage in a remarkably short period in 1922 for $22,000. This rapid construction, using skilled craftsmanship, highlights the building practices of the era. The property's ownership history reveals its evolution through different periods, including its brief use as the Fourth Church of Christ Scientist and later as a rooming house, which led to a sale in 1958 due to neighborhood complaints. Subsequent owners maintained the home until the current residents, a young couple, engaged Story Hill Renovations to adapt it to their needs. Their aim was to integrate their modern, eclectic style while respecting the home’s integrity, resulting in updated takes on traditional elements, such as tile wainscotings with cleaner profiles and a modern color scheme for traditional herringbone tile patterns. Expanding the main bathroom presented a significant structural challenge, requiring cantilevering over an existing load-bearing wall. Project Manager Tom Van Heijningen detailed the need for precise execution to protect the ornate plaster wall in the dining room below and manage complex plumbing installations. The project involved nearly 20 trade professionals, coordinating their efforts over six months. A standout feature of the renovated home is the “Yellowstone Room,” an upstairs space with a central fireplace and windows on three sides. This room, reminiscent of a similar space in architect Alfred Clas’s own home, was enhanced by the discovery and restoration of a 1700s chandelier, adding historical depth to the modernized space. The renovation successfully balances the preservation of historical charm with the introduction of contemporary functionality and personal style, ensuring the house continues its story into the future. #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #TudorRevival #MilwaukeeArchitecture #StoryHillRenovations #Modernization #ArchitecturalHistory #ResidentialDesign

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a 1927 Tudor-style house in Riverdale, New York, transforming its traditional interior into an avant-garde space. Purchased by Fritz and Lee Michel, the house initially featured a dated aesthetic with floral-print wallpaper and an abundance of brown tones. Designer Molly Luetkemeyer, founder of M. Design Interiors, spearheaded the project, drawing inspiration from the Wiener Werkstätte movement, contemporary to the house's original construction. This movement, known for its black and white geometric shapes and vibrant accents, became the guiding principle for the new interior. The renovation involved extensive structural changes to open up the cramped original layout. Thaddeus Briner of Architecture Outfit collaborated with Riccoboni Contracting to create a light-filled, open-plan living space. The entire renovation process spanned two years, allowing meticulous attention to detail, including a custom triangle-patterned carpet for the stairs, reminiscent of 1920s Viennese design. Each area of the house received a thoughtful modern update. The frequently used basement level, serving as the family’s primary entrance due to the house’s hillside location, was not overlooked. It was revitalized with a colorful paint scheme, bespoke cabinetry, and polished concrete floors. A central, open-concept kitchen was also integrated into the design. A key aspect of the project was the strong collaborative dynamic between the Michels and Luetkemeyer. Lee Michel contributed the idea for an Yves Klein blue dining-room table, while Fritz Michel sourced a unique chain-mail curtain to serve as a room divider from a Canadian armor maker. Even the couple's young daughters participated, requesting neon tubing, which Luetkemeyer translated into personalized nameplates above their beds. The most challenging design decision was the smoky-black color chosen for the living room, which required some persuasion but ultimately became one of the house’s most elegant and memorable features. The article highlights how the design team successfully merged the historical charm of the Tudor exterior with a bold, contemporary interior, creating a family-friendly home that is both personal and stylish, while subtly nodding to the architectural era's modern design movements. #DesignHunting #InteriorRenovation #TudorStyle #AvantGardeDesign #MollyLuetkemeyer #WienerWerkstätte #HomeDesign #RiverdaleRenovation #ModernInterior

Ghiora Aharoni, principal of Ghiora Aharoni Design Studio, undertook a renovation project on his apartment located in a 1903 tenement building on Leroy Street in the West Village. His approach to combining two separate apartments into a single modern living space involved a process akin to an archaeological excavation. The primary goal was to integrate contemporary living with a reverence for the building's original architectural character and materials. This involved stripping the apartments down to their structural foundations, exposing elements that had been concealed for decades. The renovation began with the removal of walls, leading to the discovery of 1903 newspapers tucked between ceiling beams, which confirmed the building's completion year. The process revealed the original bricks, beams, and wooden studs, which were then preserved and incorporated into the design. Aharoni's intention was to achieve a sense of Quaker-like simplicity in the aesthetic, emphasizing the raw, authentic materials of the building. The project involved the meticulous work of contractors, F&N Solutions, whose contribution Aharoni described as spectacular. A significant design challenge involved integrating the two original kitchens, which were separated by a common wall. Aharoni located the shared chimney that serviced both kitchens and subsequently created a unique connecting fireplace. This fireplace, an EcoSmart Fire model, is open on both sides and uses an alcohol-based flame, eliminating the need for a traditional flue and preventing the emission of fumes or smoke. The design of this central feature was crucial in linking the two previously distinct living spaces, transforming them into a cohesive home. Throughout the apartment, a black-and-white color scheme predominates. Aharoni noted that while this palette currently defines the space, it is not his ultimate vision. He expressed a desire to introduce color, specifically mentioning plans for two blue-and-red chairs, indicating that the current monochromatic design is a temporary stage in the apartment's evolution. Despite the minimalist color scheme, Aharoni emphasizes that the atmosphere is far from cold, attributing the warmth to the abundant natural light. One of the most cherished features of the renovated apartment for Aharoni is the presence of eight windows, which allow natural light to flood the living space, creating a luxurious and expansive feel. He describes the experience of waking up to beams of light across the floor as a significant luxury. The combined apartment now boasts a 50-foot living room, which, despite its origins in a tenement building, presents an unexpected sense of grandeur and luxury in disguise. The renovation also included specific design elements like a wooden statue of the goddess Parvati, placed under a supporting beam for protection, a wood-and-plaster ribbon sculpture by Aharoni himself, and a collaboration with artist Hisao Hanafusa on the dining table design, complemented by George Nakashima dining chairs. The bathroom was updated with a shower replacing a bathtub and a sleek Boffi sink. The kitchen features under-counter appliances and a clever storage solution behind a painting that doubles as a door, accommodating Aharoni's regular dinner parties despite having only two stovetop burners. Window coverings were designed to be graceful, covering two at a time rather than individual shades. #TenementRenovation #GhioraAharoniDesign #WestVillageApartment #ArchitecturalArchaeology #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriors #OpenConceptLiving #SustainableDesign

Mitch Margo, an attorney, acquired a 1961 residence in St. Louis, known as the Kaplan House, which was designed by William Bernoudy, a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright. This acquisition marked Margo as the third owner of the architecturally significant Midcentury Modern home. His previous residences included a Victorian townhouse and a house in the historic Claverach Park neighborhood of Clayton, demonstrating a consistent preference for homes with architectural importance. Upon purchasing the Bernoudy home, Margo inherited not only the property but also its meticulously preserved blueprints and historical details from the second owners, who were keen Midcentury Modern enthusiasts. The house, while largely in excellent condition and reflecting Bernoudy's distinctive style, presented certain challenges, particularly in its kitchen and master bathroom, which were still in their original 1961 state and no longer met contemporary living standards. Margo collaborated with architect Helen Lee of TAO + LEE Associates to undertake the renovation of these key areas and to design a new swimming pool. The primary objective for the kitchen renovation was to modernize it for entertaining while maintaining the architectural integrity of the Bernoudy design. This involved a careful assessment of structural elements, such as a built-in bar between the kitchen and dining room, which was ultimately preserved due to its integral construction. The renovation of the kitchen focused on enhancing functionality and openness. The sink was relocated under a window to overlook the front yard, and a new center island was introduced to facilitate cooking and casual seating. The original pantry was removed to accommodate a larger refrigerator and double oven. The design team opted for an L-shaped kitchen layout to balance Margo's cooking needs with space for guests. Material choices, such as custom quartersawn red gum cabinets by Classic Woodwork, Ann Sacks white gloss tiles, and Cambria countertops in White Cliff, were selected to complement the home's original aesthetic, emphasizing white and wood tones and a minimalist, modern appearance. The vertical installation of the tiles subtly echoed a hexagonal clerestory window found in the living room. The living and dining room area, characterized by its soaring ceiling, a wall of windows offering views of the backyard, and built-in wood shelving, became Margo's favorite space. He curated this area with a blend of vintage Midcentury Modern furniture and new pieces, along with art, including signed Salvador Dalí lithographs. Notable furniture includes a Crate & Barrel sofa, reupholstered Adrian Pearsall chairs, a Paul McCobb travertine coffee table, and Wassily chairs by Marcel Breuer. The master bathroom also underwent significant changes. Originally dark and enclosed with a drop ceiling that concealed a skylight, the space was transformed. The renovation involved removing the bathtub to create a more spacious shower and a double vanity. Opening up the ceiling was crucial in restoring the room's sense of grandeur and allowing natural light from the skylight to flood the area. Wood salvaged from the original soffits was repurposed for new soffit lighting, further integrating modern amenities with the home's historic elements. Lee noted the pleasure of working on a Bernoudy house, highlighting the robust original structure and the opportunity to rejuvenate a modern design while making it relevant for contemporary living. #WilliamBernoudy #MidcenturyModern #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalPreservation #KitchenDesign #BathroomRemodel #InteriorDesign #HistoricHomes #ModernUpdates

The article showcases a 1940s Miami Beach home that has been thoughtfully renovated to blend its historical Florida style with European influences, creating a unique and eclectic aesthetic. Situated in the Bayshore neighborhood, this two-story, four-bedroom residence stands in contrast to the more modern glass-fronted towers common in contemporary Miami. Its design, characterized by thick walls and a terra-cotta tile roof, reflects a traditional hacienda style that historically helps to keep houses cool in warm climates. The property's discreet exterior, with its red brick driveway and white plastered facade partially obscured by dense philodendrons and banana trees, belies the expansive interior. The focal point of the 7,000-square-foot home is a large rectangular courtyard. This central space is lush with palms and elephant ear plants and features a colonnade draped in wisteria, offering a naturally shaded and cool environment. The current owners, a couple in the hospitality industry, purchased the property over two decades ago specifically for its departure from Miami's contemporary minimalist architecture. In 2018, they enlisted Italian-born architect Fabrizio Casiraghi to redecorate, seeking a design that would honor the home's history while prioritizing comfort and suitability for frequent entertaining. Casiraghi, known for his eclectic and romantic designs, largely maintained the home's exterior while completely reimagining its interior spaces. He filled the rooms with vintage furniture and curios, aiming for a luxurious yet lived-in feel. The renovation draws inspiration from 1950s Mediterranean hotels and regional early 20th-century Miami architecture, which itself borrowed heavily from European styles. Subtle Italian influences are evident throughout, such as the use of Florida keystone and occasional pebble arrangements in the porch and courtyard, reminiscent of Italian churches. Further European inspiration is drawn from the Italian vacation homes of the Agnelli family and Jean Cocteau's Villa Santo Sospir in the South of France. This influence is reflected in the design of the three guest rooms at the front of the house, which feature pale cream walls, aged brass details, and crisp white linens, evoking a traditional Provençal manor. In contrast, the rooms at the back of the first floor are designed to be darker and more intimate, creating a welcoming atmosphere for entertaining. The study, for example, is wrapped in polished walnut veneer, and the dining room features an embroidered 19th-century Uzbekistani textile and straw-clad walls. The kitchen boasts a vibrant fresco by Lukas Geronimas on the ceiling, depicting a natural landscape. Despite the strong European influences, the house retains its undeniable Miami character. Casiraghi's redesign of the octagonal double-height hall includes a large Isamu Noguchi paper lantern and a Picasso lithograph. Historical elements, such as remnants of a wheelchair lift installed for Franklin D. Roosevelt during his visits when the home belonged to former Miami Beach mayor Elliott Roosevelt, are acknowledged. The upstairs rooms are designed to pay tribute to the surrounding lagoon, with a second study featuring hand-painted silk walls in coral and aquamarine tones. The floor plan was adjusted to create a narrow-arched corridor leading to the bedroom, reminiscent of a ship's passageway. The design allows for views of the owner's fishing boat and the natural wildlife, including iguanas, which, despite Casiraghi's initial surprise, contribute to the home's unique connection to its natural environment. The overall design philosophy emphasizes a blend of styles and periods, creating a space that is both timeless and deeply personal, reflecting the idea that truly beautiful homes are a rich amalgamation of diverse elements rather than adhering to a single, uniform style. #MiamiBeach #HomeRenovation #FabrizioCasiraghi #EclecticDesign #HistoricArchitecture #InteriorDesign #EuropeanInfluence #TropicalLiving #LuxuryHomes