A Timeless Transformation: This Former Rental Is Now A Florida Getaway Packed With Personality

Architect and designer Kartik Desai, along with his husband Zane Philstrom, transformed an abandoned mobile home property in Southold, North Fork of Long Island, New York, into a modern, cost-effective family residence with breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. The couple purchased the dilapidated property in 2012, initially using it as a campsite while they designed their dream home, emphasizing the stunning natural surroundings as the primary inspiration. The design philosophy centered on maximizing the Long Island Sound view, ensuring every room and the swimming pool faced the water. To achieve this vision while adhering to budget constraints, Desai implemented several clever cost-cutting solutions. For instance, in the living room, instead of an expensive custom sectional, they opted for an affordable IKEA sectional and customized it with removable, washable linen covers from Bemz, providing both a polished look and practical maintenance for a beach house environment. The living room also features a massive 12-foot hearth fireplace that doubles as a bench, and a clever panel concealing the television. The dining room, kitchen, and living area were designed as a cohesive communal space. A continuous bank of sliding doors along the ground floor was a key design element to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. To avoid the high cost of a custom 50-foot sliding door system, they utilized four standard-width bay units. These were then integrated seamlessly with natural oak finishes, extending to cabinetry and using cabinet face material to fill the gaps, making it appear as a single, custom system. Desai highlights this as an example of making standard-sized elements look bespoke. In the kitchen, budget-friendly material swaps were crucial. The original plan for concrete floors, countertops, and fireplace surround was deemed too expensive. Instead, large format tiles from Porcelanosa were used for the floor, and quartz for the countertops and fireplace surround. These alternatives provided a similar aesthetic to concrete but offered benefits such as durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance. The open kitchen design allows Philstrom, an avid cook, to engage with guests in the dining and living areas or by the pool. The bedrooms and bathrooms also maintain continuity with the home's overall aesthetic and practical design. Bedrooms offer serene views of the ocean, with furniture from brands like CB2, Blu Dot, Parachute, and IKEA. The bathroom similarly boasts sweeping views of the Long Island Sound, utilizing the same practical and durable materials as the main living areas, with fixtures from Kohler, mirrors from Rejuvenation, and tiles from Porcelanosa. This strategic approach to design and material selection enabled the couple to create a sophisticated, zen-like Hamptons home without exceeding their budget, transforming an uninhabitable structure into a modern sanctuary. #HomeDesign #CostSavingTips #HamptonsHome #ModernArchitecture #DIYDesign #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #OceanViewHome #SustainableLiving

Designer James Farmer embarked on a comprehensive gut renovation of a ranch-style home in Winter Park, Florida, transforming it into a functional and aesthetically striking residence for a young family of four. The home, nestled in an established lakeside neighborhood with mature live oaks, originally possessed a humble and straightforward architectural style. Farmer collaborated with Skolfield Homes to maintain the general architectural character while implementing significant internal modifications. Key structural changes included a complete overhaul of the galley kitchen and the relocation of the main staircase from the side of the house to the center, elevating its prominence within the living room. The reimagined kitchen, described as a "glorified galley," now features a sunny breakfast room, formerly a screened-in porch. The designer also emphasized the formal entry space, adding a bar to encourage its use for social gatherings, ranging from cocktail parties to casual post-work martinis. For the interior, Farmer employed a layered approach, integrating diverse textures and bold patterns with elements characteristic of grand Floridian style. These include floral wallpapers, gold accents, intricate trim, palm motifs, pecky cypress wallcoverings, and a coastal-inspired color palette. The design intentionally blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living through the incorporation of trellis details and a combination of timeworn brick and wood flooring. This emphasis on location-specific design aimed to create a space that is both fun and timeless, echoing classic Florida aesthetics. Farmer guided his clients to invest in durable materials and timeless pieces that would gracefully evolve with the family over time, a philosophy he elaborates on in his book, "Home Again: A Return to Gracious Interiors." The fusion of opulent interior design and modern structural alterations resulted in the home's guiding principle: "Traditional with a twist!" The renovation addressed various spaces, each with distinct design choices. The front parlor, for instance, features custom millwork and wainscoting, a color palette of peach, robin's egg blue, and butterscotch, and a blue-painted ceiling reminiscent of Southern porches. It also includes a bar area with accent chairs by Thibaut and custom couches by Grant Trick Furnishings. The family room showcases a pickled pecky cypress ceiling, rich velvets, and a terracotta and emerald color scheme with creamy white millwork. The sunroom, previously a screened-in porch, retains an alfresco feel with trelliage panels, white wicker furniture from Memoire Design, and vintage elephant garden stools. The dining room, which maintained its original footprint, boasts custom Gracie Studio wallpaper, a lacquered ceiling, and console tables painted in a lemony yellow. The newly designed kitchen, a double galley, is divided into a seating area and a functional workspace with high-end appliances, reflecting the clients' entertaining lifestyle. An octagonal breakfast room, created during the kitchen expansion, features Old Chicago brick and palm motifs, emphasizing a porch-like ambiance. The relocated stairwell, now a central focal point, was customized with a runner from Vermilion. The daughter's bedroom was designed to be adaptable as she grows, featuring pink trellis wallpaper by Schumacher. The primary bedroom incorporates elements like bamboo, palm, and pecky cypress, evoking an "old Florida" feel. The primary bathroom extends the aesthetic from the bedroom, utilizing matching Brunschwig and Fils wallpaper and Cowtan and Tout curtains, employing a design trick of using drapery fabric for wall coverings. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FloridaStyle #TraditionalWithATwist #RanchHomeTransformation #SouthernDesign #CustomMillwork #CoastalColorPalette #TimelessInteriors

Emily Henson, a stylist and author, embarked on an extensive two-year renovation of a dilapidated bungalow in Margate, Kent, transforming it into her dream seaside home. Despite initially searching for Victorian townhouses, Henson was drawn to the bungalow due to its garden and ample natural light, even though it presented numerous challenges including dingy rooms, rotten windows, and asbestos-ridden floors. Her renovation approach was largely intuitive, making decisions such as lighting plans and wall colors on the spot, exemplified by her decision to keep the fresh plaster unpainted in some areas. The renovation process began in January 2022. Henson lived on-site throughout the extensive remodeling, which involved her builder dismantling walls and ceilings, and rebuilding the kitchen and bathroom. While she initially hoped to complete much of the work before moving in, the prolonged timeline necessitated living through the construction. Major challenges included replacing nearly everything in the house, from plumbing and electrics to insulation, as well as installing new flooring, a new bathroom, and a kitchen. Henson adopted a hands-on approach, undertaking many DIY projects herself, such as pouring the floors and stripping wallpaper, after initial difficulties with a builder. A significant personal project was refinishing the exterior and painting all the windows, which she documented on Instagram, noting how it transformed her perception of her home. Key design decisions included opening up the living room and kitchen by removing walls and an old fireplace, creating a double-height ceiling, and adding a mezzanine for a library/reading nook. This open-plan layout suited her lifestyle as a single resident and provided an ideal space for entertaining. She also reconfigured the bedroom area, adding an en-suite bathroom by knocking through a doorway from her bedroom and converting a separate WC and bathroom into one large space. Regarding expenses, the most significant splurge was the structural work involved in knocking through walls and ceilings. Conversely, her best bargains included a blue bath and a green sink. The sink was purchased for £100 from a salvage yard, and the bath was acquired for free from Facebook Marketplace after the seller grew impatient waiting for collection. Henson expressed her fondness for a ceramic ceiling light imported from Italy and a red Chinese cabinet that has traveled with her for over two decades. Her custom-made kitchen island, constructed from four antique chests of drawers fitted onto a wheeled birch ply base, serves as a central storage solution, eliminating the need for wall cabinets. For paint choices, Henson left the freshly plastered walls and vaulted ceiling in the main living area and kitchen unpainted, sealing them with Polyvine Decorators Varnish for protection. She applied a similar raw finish in two bedrooms, accentuating them with white borders. The rest of the house was painted with inexpensive basic white paint. Specific colors used include Dulux Tuscan Glade for the kitchen windowsill and pantry door, and June Bug by Valspar for the exterior windows. Henson noted that if she were to undertake the renovation again, she would invest more thought into the lighting plan, particularly regarding the placement of pendants and wall lights in the main bathroom and other rooms. #HomeRenovation #BungalowTransformation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #KitchenIsland #HomeMakeover #SeasideHome #EmilyHenson #Kent

This article details the design of a contemporary North Carolina beach house, a vacation home for Lindsey and Wes Carter in Wrightsville Beach, their childhood town. The couple desired a relaxed, coastal, and modern aesthetic with a foundational palette of black and cream, accented by subtle pops of color and organic textures. Interior designer Cortney Bishop was tasked with creating a sophisticated yet approachable and kid-friendly environment. A significant design challenge was the home's upside-down floorplan, necessitated by a narrow lot. This three-story reversed layout features the entrance on the ground floor, leading to a central winding staircase that ascends to the kitchen, living area, and bedrooms on the upper floors. The ground floor entry was designed to be practical, incorporating a bench and hooks for beach essentials and wet towels, and featuring a distinctive feathered tile. To counteract the disorientation potentially caused by the reversed layout, Bishop incorporated visual interest and texture to guide occupants smoothly to the second-floor living spaces. Material choices and their intentional placement were crucial in creating a delightful experience, drawing focus towards the kitchen and living area, which were designed to feel connected to the home's surroundings. The kitchen cabinetry was custom-made to achieve an integrated "living room feel," featuring a bleach oak surfing detail that showcased excellent craftsmanship. A soft white paint color on the horizontal shiplap of the outer staircase wall, combined with vertical white oak accents on the inside of the stairs and a glass window from the second floor into the living area, helped eliminate any sense of perplexity regarding the layout. The kitchen and living space are highlighted as showstoppers, attributed to the quality of construction materials, including wide plank shiplap running horizontally and vertical oak accent panels in various areas, including the office. Bedrooms were given unique touches with wallpaper, while the primary bedroom was wrapped in oak, contributing to a captivating narrative throughout the house. Vintage lamps were used to add character and style to the primary bedroom. The design extended to the bathrooms, where a blend of organic elements, sophistication, and black elegance was maintained. The boys' room adopted a tribal surf theme with bunk beds, and the girls' room featured a fresh, fun atmosphere, with matching bleached white oak Kerfing cabinet accents seen throughout the home. The entire project, from concept to installation, spanned two and a half years, culminating in a home that deeply reflects the clients' personalities and lifestyle, achieving a distinct "vibe" that thrilled both the homeowners and the designer. #CoastalDesign #BeachHouse #ContemporaryHome #NorthCarolina #InteriorDesign #UpsideDownFloorplan #CustomCabinetry #OrganicTextures #ModernAesthetic

Florida offers a diverse range of unique vacation rentals that move beyond traditional hotel stays, providing memorable experiences. The options span various categories, from treehouses that evoke childhood nostalgia to luxurious mansions and even castle-like properties. These unique accommodations are spread across the state, from the northern parts to the Florida Keys, catering to different preferences and group sizes. Treehouse rentals in Florida provide an immersive nature experience. For instance, a studio unit in Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island, offers a treehouse-like village setting with interconnected wooden walkways, situated close to the beach and priced at $147 per night. It includes amenities such as heating, air conditioning, wireless internet, a kitchenette, and a Smart TV, boasting a 4.7-star rating. Another option, The Hive at Wanderlust Okto in Orange County, is a 240-square-foot treehouse featuring a private deck and an outdoor clawfoot bathtub, available for $149 per night with Wi-Fi, a kitchen, and a Smart TV, and holds a 5-star rating. Tiny home rentals offer a compact yet comfortable stay. Tiny House Margarita in Sarasota County, located in Siesta Key, is a colorful, two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit part of a tiny house village. It costs $187 per night and includes wireless internet, cable television, and a kitchenette, rated 4.7 stars. Another distinctive tiny house is situated on the water in Key Largo. This one-bedroom, two-bathroom rental is priced at $423 per night and is part of a private community, offering access to two beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a dock, with a 4.7-star rating. Farmhouse rentals allow guests to experience Florida's rural side. The Modern Farmhouse Cottage in Taylor Creek, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom renovated property near Lake Okeechobee, is available for $197 per night. It features a dock, washer/dryer, internet, kitchen, grill, and Smart TV, and has a 4.7-star rating. The Strawberry Field Stilt House in Plant City, a one-bedroom, one-bathroom elevated house overlooking a strawberry field, is priced at $144 per night. It includes heating, air conditioning, internet, cable television, and outdoor furniture, achieving a 5-star rating. For those seeking grandeur, mansions are available for rent, suitable for large groups or reunions. A Luxurious Gated Private Waterfront Estate in Fort Lauderdale, spanning 7,000 square feet, offers six bedrooms and eight bathrooms for $2,270 per night. Amenities include a gourmet kitchen, pool, hot tub, and two washers/dryers, with a 4.9-star rating. Another mansion, Gulf Front in Crystal Beach, Destin, is an oceanfront home with nine bedrooms and eight bathrooms, accommodating up to 20 guests for $1,509 per night. It features a private heated swimming pool, gourmet kitchen, and billiards, rated 4.2 stars. Finally, castle-like properties provide a royal experience. Castle on the Key in Siesta Key, a five-bedroom, five-bathroom home along a canal, is available for $469 per night. It boasts elements of a castle, a private heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness room, rated 4.2 stars. The Pillars Castle in St. Augustine, a historic Moorish-style castle with four bedrooms and five bathrooms, costs $1,136 per night. It offers a game room, zen room, and multiple entertaining spaces, with a 4.9-star rating. #Florida #UniqueStays #VacationRentals #TreehouseRentals #TinyHomeRentals #FarmhouseRentals #MansionRentals #CastleRentals #TravelFlorida

The article showcases the Miami bungalow of entrepreneur Chelsea Hirschhorn, designed by Monica Santayana and Ronald Alvarez of MONIOMI Design. The property, a four-bedroom, four-bathroom bungalow spanning 3,250 square feet, primarily functions as a guest house and a private retreat for Hirschhorn. The design brief emphasized capturing a subtle, beach-inspired atmosphere while allowing the designers creative freedom to incorporate Hirschhorn's colorful outlook. The entryway sets a vibrant mood with a textural blue lime wash wall, formal paneling, and grasscloth wallpaper. A vintage Mario Lopez Torres monkey table introduces a whimsical element. The great room is designed for versatility, featuring lounge-style seating for guests and play areas for children. A centrally located sofa offers 360-degree seating, adapting to various activities. Additional features in the great room include a custom pool table, a hand sconce by Chris Wolston, and chairs from Joyful Objects, Yes! The article also mentions a foosball table, a Brent Warr floor lamp, and Elitis drapery. In the guest wing, the hallway features a 3D raffia wallcovering from CMO Paris, intended to create an unexpected and playful design element. The kitchen maintains an oceanic color scheme with custom light blue cabinetry accented with gray, complemented by mint quartzite countertops and backsplash. Custom light wood shelving displays seashell art and houses a candy bar. The primary bedroom serves as a personal retreat and a 'glam room,' incorporating plum tones and textured details like a fluted wall. Furnishings include a custom headboard in Lee Jofa fabric, a custom sofa, and pieces from Lukas Wegwerth and 1stDibs. The room also features a L’aviva ceiling light, Hodsoll Mackenzie curtains, and a Jeremy Anderson floor lamp. Another guest bedroom embraces a warm and inviting atmosphere with saturated mustard yellow tones, ceiling wallpaper from Arte, and Phillip Jeffries wallpaper. Custom pieces include the bed and sconces. The kids' room stimulates imagination with Gucci’s heron wallpaper and incorporates rattan accents. The bunk room, designed for hosting family and friends, is saturated in teal, offering a bold and personalized feel. The primary bathroom, while connected to the bedroom's color scheme, provides a serene space with a lighter palette, Elitis wallpaper, and a Lindsey Adelman ceiling light. The guest bathroom, connecting the guest bedroom and bunk room, shimmers with a mother-of-pearl checkered wallcovering from Elitis, along with mirrors from Assembly Line and Gessi faucets. MONIOMI Design, an award-winning Miami-based firm led by Monica Santayana and Ronald Alvarez, specializes in luxury residential and commercial interiors with an eclectic and bold approach. They also have a bespoke furnishings brand, MADE by MONIOMI. The article highlights how the designers successfully blended functionality with a unique, whimsical, yet elevated aesthetic, deviating from traditional beach house decor to create a distinctive living space. #InteriorDesign #MiamiBungalow #MONIOMIDesign #HomeDecor #CoastalLiving #LuxuryInteriors #ColorSchemes #GuestHouse

This article details the transformation of a neglected Federal-style schoolhouse in the Catskills into a glamorous and chic home, dubbed "Monkey Cottage," by lifestyle editor Jason Oliver Nixon and decorator John Loecke. The duo discovered the 900-square-foot former schoolhouse, built around 1840, listed for $30,000. Despite its dilapidated state—featuring no closets, low second-floor ceilings, and multiple layers of wallpaper and paint—they saw its potential. After purchasing the property, a pipe burst and the ceiling caved in a week later, leading to a complete gut renovation. Much of the work was undertaken by John and Jason themselves, with assistance from Jason's uncle Lary and father, Jary. A year of renovation resulted in a vibrant weekend retreat characterized by bold colors, playful prints, and a spirit of fun. The homeowners emphasize their commitment to preserving the original architectural style while imbuing the home with their personal touch. The kitchen, which also serves as the dining area due to the absence of a formal dining room, features striking black cabinetry, white marble counters, and a unique display of vintage state plates instead of upper cabinets. A circular window was added, mirroring an existing one on the home's facade. To address the lack of closets, built-in drawers and storage cubbies were incorporated throughout the house. A distinctive railing inspired by a Chinese garden bridge was installed, adding an exotic touch. The bathroom features faux paneling crafted from 4x4s, contributing to the cottage's unique aesthetic. The homeowners' passion for collecting is evident in the flea-market equestrian prints displayed against a chocolate-brown wall and a collection of colored tableware, which John strategically uses to make small spaces appear larger by employing a few substantial furniture pieces. The vibrant master bedroom is a testament to their love for color, with sunny-yellow paint and a lively green-and-white print that energizes the small space. To maximize functionality in the bedroom, a carpenter was hired to convert a three-foot-high gap created by the low-pitched roof into bookshelves on one side and cabinets and storage drawers on the other. John provides design advice on combining patterns, suggesting that a common color scheme prevents clashes and recommending the use of no more than two large-scale prints, with other patterns kept geometric. Collections, such as glassware and antique garden statuary, are meticulously arranged by color, type, and theme on walls and open shelving. The eclectic living room combines furniture of various sizes and heights to maintain visual interest. The design draws inspiration from classic English country interiors but is reinterpreted with unconventional elements like silver scallop sconces, giraffe print pillows, and a tropical-inspired chandelier. Ribbons are utilized throughout the house to embellish curtains, lampshades, and pillows, offering an inexpensive and versatile decorating solution. John's book, "John Loecke's Grosgrain Style," provides creative ribbon-based DIY projects, including a layered ribbon square that can be created with a hot-glue gun. The article highlights the transformation from a neglected building to a personalized and stylish home, emphasizing creative problem-solving and the thoughtful integration of personal style and collections. #SchoolhouseRenovation #CatskillsHome #HomeTransformation #InteriorDesign #EclecticDecor #DIYRenovation #SmallSpaceLiving #VintageFinds #ColorSchemes

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

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 highlights a unique interior design project by Clive Lonstein in Litchfield County, Connecticut, transforming a late 1800s Colonial Revival home with a distinctive turret. Lonstein, a designer who previously worked for William Sofield, opened his own studio in 2016. His clients requested bold color, comfort, and an interesting backdrop for their growing art collection, seeking a bespoke design tailored to their tastes. Instead of extensive structural renovations, Lonstein focused on a decorating approach, embracing the architectural personality of the house designed by Ehrick Rossiter, known for his whimsical country homes. Lonstein emphasized the importance of context in his projects, subtly infusing the unique characteristics of the location into the design. The project involved a vibrant use of color, beginning with a candy apple-red front door, an aubergine staircase, and a bubblegum pink kitchen. The sitting room features moss-hued paint, reflecting the clients' desire for the rich colors often seen in English country houses. The living and dining rooms, however, maintain a white base to allow a diverse collection of art and furniture to stand out. Lonstein skillfully integrated the clients' existing furniture, reupholstering pieces and adding new ones. For instance, the living room showcases paintings by Sophie Larrimore, Caitlin Keogh, and Mary Grigoriadis alongside a reupholstered 1950s sofa, chairs by Sergio Rodrigues, and a game table and chairs by George Nakashima. In the library, a vintage Viggo Boesen chair upholstered in sheepskin complements a sofa, with table lamps from Bitossi and a desk and chair by Mira Nakashima. Upstairs, the color scheme continues with a chartreuse bathroom and a collegiate blue bedroom, echoing the hue of an Yves Klein table downstairs. Lonstein’s favorite space, the round turret room, is bathed in a dusty pink that harmonizes with the original elaborate moldings and serves as a backdrop for a richly-hued photograph by Vik Muniz. A collaborative effort with the client’s art advisor, Bridget Murphy, ensured the seamless integration of the art collection into the design. In the dining room, another Vik Muniz photograph after Gustave Courbet enlivens the neutral space, which includes sheepskin-upholstered vintage Saarinen chairs, a Noguchi light, and a 1950s Martin Eisler caned credenza. Lonstein's approach, despite his personal aspiration to minimalism, is characterized by an appreciation for the idiosyncratic, demonstrating his talent for cohesively blending diverse elements and client preferences into a unified and vibrant interior. #CliveLonstein #InteriorDesign #ConnecticutHome #VictorianArchitecture #BoldColors #ArtIntegration #EclecticDecor #HomeRenovation #DecoratorProject

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

This article details the transformation of a 1950s lakeside home in Central Florida, undertaken by interior designer Nicole Roe of R Nickson Interiors. The redesign aimed to connect the interiors with the scenic surroundings and incorporate a sense of whimsy while maintaining traditional lines. Initially, the lakefront rooms were enclosed with walls and small windows, obstructing the views. The renovation opened up these vistas and rebalanced the home by creating a more imposing entrance from the driveway. A key element of the design was the integration of a whimsical aesthetic. In the eat-in kitchen, this was achieved through a series of quirky royal portraits and a custom-made bench with family-friendly performance fabric. The kitchen, previously dark, now features full-length windows providing views of the backyard and shore. Gold accents, a favorite of the client, were thoughtfully incorporated throughout the home, appearing in light fixtures, select accent furniture, and notably, a polished brass extractor hood in the kitchen, echoing the chandelier and hardware. These golden details provided a warm, luxurious glow, unifying the overall aesthetic. The dining room serves as a prime example of the whimsical approach, featuring Schumacher's Madame De Pompadour mural wallcovering as a backdrop for formal entertaining. The designer emphasized the extensive use of wallpaper, incorporating it into ceilings, murals, and various spaces to add personality and dimension. Arched doorways in the dining room, while referencing traditional architecture, were updated to allow open sightlines to the foyer and living room, creating a more contemporary feel. The homeowner's preference for nuanced and sophisticated shades of pink and blue significantly influenced the color palette, which became a consistent theme across wallpapers, cabinetry, paint, and fabrics. For the living room, the design prioritized both elegance and practicality, using performance fabrics and durable finishes suitable for an active family with young children and dogs. Functional spaces like well-designed drop zones and areas for family meals were also integrated. The renovation also introduced a small home bar, open to the entryway, featuring a Schumacher wallcovering on the ceiling. The entryway itself was dramatically improved with a statement tiled floor and star-patterned ceiling paper, addressing the previously neglected approach to the house. The guest bedroom adopted a traditional look with a custom-made half-tester bed and drapes, complemented by a fresh color palette using Sherwin Williams' Aquitaine and pastel shades from a Locust Lane rug. The primary bathroom was reconfigured to create a spacious sanctuary with separate zones, including a Taft tub and a vanity painted in Sherwin Williams French Moire, with Schumacher wallpaper in the powder room. Beyond the interiors, the outdoor spaces also received attention. The exterior paint was updated to a creamy white with soft blue and taupe accents, and thoughtful landscaping was added. The most significant outdoor change was the rebuilding of the front stoop into a more prominent and inviting entryway, aligning with the overall goal of creating a balanced and welcoming home from all perspectives. #HomeRedesign #InteriorDesign #LakesideHome #WhimsicalDecor #TraditionalArchitecture #ModernRenovation #ColorPalette #WallpaperDesign #GoldAccents

Shanti Crawford of Indigo & Ochre Design transformed a 2,600-square-foot, four-bedroom penthouse in Brooklyn from a "modern white box" into a vibrant, functional family home. The clients, a family with three daughters and a dog, sought to add warmth, color, character, and personality to the new build, which initially felt cold and barren. Crawford's approach emphasizes socially responsible and sustainable design, reflected in her use of colorful, thoughtfully collected, and layered decor. The primary goal was to create distinct and intimate areas within the open-plan layout, allowing each family member to engage in various activities simultaneously, such as working, studying, socializing, dining, and playing music. This was achieved through strategic furniture arrangements, custom built-ins, and the transformative power of color. AThe design process began with the clients' desire for a fresh start, especially as their children were growing older. Crawford provided guidance from the pre-closure phase, focusing on integrating character into the developer's clean, modern aesthetic. Key to her design was the incorporation of beloved pre-existing items, including a massive patchwork kilim from Morocco and a rustic sideboard. She aimed to ensure these pieces felt intentionally integrated and harmonized with the new, streamlined elements of the apartment. Crawford used color as a declarative element to define spaces. For example, the entryway was painted in a pale pink hue, Benjamin Moore Wheatberry, which subtly appears in other areas of the home, creating a cohesive visual flow. The entry also features practical storage solutions like hooks, baskets, and cubbies from Room & Board to accommodate the active family's needs. Texture was added through a ceramic disc wall hanging and a woven Tuareg mat. In the living room, the vibrant patchwork Moroccan kilim served as the primary inspiration for the color palette, influencing the selection of seating, artwork, and accessories. Crawford also introduced a gentle antique Oushak rug to complement the kilim without competing with its intricate patterns. The dining room features the clients' cherished kilim, anchored by a sleek Artisan Latus table and Gubi Beetle chairs, with brass legs that echo other metallic accents in the adjacent sitting area. This intentional mix of rustic and modern elements ensures balance and visual interest. The family room, referred to as a 'snug,' was designed to be a cozy, intimate space. It was painted in a warm, deep gray, including the ceilings, to embrace the lack of natural light. Deep jewel tones and lush textures, such as velvet upholstery, were incorporated, along with a vintage Heriz carpet to add personality. Custom walnut shelving units were built to span an entire wall, providing depth and delineation, and housing a Samsung TV and Noguchi Akari floor lamp. The master bedroom was conceived as a serene retreat, adhering to principles of "soothing neutral colors, simple and clean lines, texture over pattern." The primary colors are neutral, with subtle pops of deep color from peacock sconces and a luminous mouth-blown carafe and glass. The bed frame is custom, and the bedding and throw are from Wolves Within. The study, designed for multiple functions including a home office, occasional guest bedroom, and storage, features a custom-designed built-in bookshelf that frames a Kalon Studios daybed. A vintage Paul McCobb desk and a vintage Swedish Kilim rug complete the space, demonstrating how distinct areas were created while maintaining an open flow within the larger apartment. The collaboration with landscape designer Laura Harmon of LFH Studio for plants further enhanced the natural integration of the design. #InteriorDesign #ApartmentDecor #FamilyHome #ColorPalette #CustomBuiltIns #StrategicFurniture #BrooklynDesign #VintageDecor #SustainableDesign

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