An 1800s Living Room Gets a Facelift Fit for Royalty

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

This article details the transformation of a formal center-hall Colonial home in Canton into a light, airy, and casual space, a challenge undertaken by mother-daughter interior designers Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible. The clients, whose tastes lean traditional, sought a refreshed aesthetic for their long-standing residence. The renovation began in the kitchen, located at the back of the house, which was initially made brighter through the addition of skylights by the builder. The designers' role involved selecting fixtures and finishes to imbue warmth into the all-white kitchen the clients desired. To achieve this, the designers incorporated nickel gap and walnut beams to visually break up the extensive ceiling in the large, cabinetry-filled space. A warm white paint, Benjamin Moore Cotton Balls, served as a foundational creamy hue, complemented by oil-rubbed bronze accents and a hammered copper sink, with the bronze hardware's subtle gold undertones adding depth. A custom walnut top on the dining island introduced a rich contrast to the quartzite used on the perimeter and prep island. The connection between the kitchen and breakfast nook was enhanced by widening the opening, allowing more natural light to flood the spaces. Hayward noted that sunlight now streams directly into the nook, drawing attention to this area, which was further embellished with a textural wallpaper featuring oversized leaves. The breakfast nook also features a curved banquette, strategically implemented to maximize the natural light and views of the surrounding greenery. This design choice also resolved a furniture layout challenge, as the clients' original table and chairs did not fit centrally. Positioning them with a banquette in a corner created a cozy gathering spot. In the front of the house, an office, already featuring new, traditional walnut millwork, was transformed into a feminine retreat. The design process for this room started with selecting wallpaper, with the client being drawn to Lee Jofa panels by Aerin, which provided an old European, romantic garden feel. Complementary elements included a subdued neutral rug, a velvety blue chair, and a distressed iron chandelier adorned with glass crystals. A key objective for the designers was to ensure that the refreshed home did not appear to be recently redone. Schaible emphasized that the design aimed for an aesthetic where everything seemed to have always been in place, belonging naturally within the home's existing character. The article also provides resources for the interior design services and the carpenter involved in the project, along with a correction regarding the carpenter's phone number. #HomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #ColonialHome #KitchenRenovation #BreakfastNook #HomeOfficeDesign #TraditionalStyle #ResidentialDesign #CantonMassachusetts

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

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 transformation of a 1950s split-level home's living room in Centerport, Long Island, owned by designers Adam and Kara Mendelsohn. After living in the home for eight years and furnishing it with a mix of existing pieces and hand-me-downs, the couple decided to update the space to better reflect their personalities and accommodate their two growing children. They enlisted interior designer Jeanne Campana to help create a family-friendly room that blended smart function with sophisticated style. Before the renovation, the living room was characterized by mustard yellow walls and a disjointed collection of furniture. Kara Mendelsohn described the house as lacking architectural details, feeling like a literal box, which made the space feel flat despite its desirable location and school district. The initial layout and decor did not provide the depth or character the family desired. Campana's design strategy focused on introducing architectural interest and creating a cohesive, family-friendly environment. A key change involved highlighting the fireplace by adding built-in shelves on either side. These shelves provided dedicated space for displaying framed family photos, books, and travel mementos, addressing the couple's desire to showcase personal items stylishly. Classic woodwork, including molding around doorways and decorative ceiling molding, was incorporated to add architectural depth and character, moving away from the previously flat aesthetic. The color palette and materials selection were carefully considered to achieve a neutral yet sophisticated look. Based on inspiration images gathered by Kara, Campana opted for earthy, organic gray walls complemented by white trim, which accentuated the new architectural details. This neutral backdrop was chosen for its versatility, allowing the family to easily change decorative accents seasonally. The furniture arrangement was also critical; two matching roll-arm sofas, upholstered in washable high-performance fabric, were placed directly across from each other with a glass-top coffee table in between. This layout maximized seating, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all family members. The Mendelsohns were keen on finding stylish yet affordable pieces. They sourced furniture from chain stores and online retailers, emphasizing comfort and practicality without excessive spending. A neutral sisal rug was added to ground the seating area and provide warmth, while end tables offered additional storage. A tall bookcase with an antique gold finish and a Hollywood Regency design added a touch of elegance near the entryway. Customization was also a feature, with the existing glass-top coffee table being converted into a shadow box to display Adam’s eyewear designs, seashells, and other personal mementos, serving as a unique conversation starter. Practical solutions were integrated throughout the design. The built-in bookcases included closed cabinets to conceal TV equipment, game consoles, and family photo albums. A large bay window was retained for natural light, with its frame repainted to match the new trim. Two ottomans, upholstered in ikat fabric, were placed under a console table below the window, offering flexible additional seating. Solid light blue cotton-linen throw pillows and custom throw pillows enhanced the comfort of the sofas. Lighting was addressed with a striking gold-finish iron orb chandelier for overhead illumination and a table lamp for task lighting at Kara’s desk area. Kara’s workspace, previously at the kitchen table, was improved with a dedicated desk, a comfortable zebra-print padded chair, and a gold-framed pinboard. Overall, the renovation successfully transformed a previously disjointed and architecturally bland living room into a sophisticated, functional, and personalized space that better suited the Mendelsohn family’s lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. #LivingRoomDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendly #ArchitecturalDetails #NeutralPalette #SuburbanHome #CustomFurniture #StorageSolutions

This blog post explores 20 sophisticated ideas for creating a luxury living room, emphasizing that true luxury extends beyond expensive objects to encompass thoughtful curation, complementary colors, and comfort. The article begins by highlighting the importance of statement yet comfortable furniture, specifically mentioning the iconic Camaleonda sofa from B&B Italia as an example of a piece that is both welcoming and customizable. It advises focusing on the sofa as a central element for establishing a cozy yet modern living space. The discussion then moves to color palettes, suggesting monotone spaces, such as black and white or black and gray, for a bold, sophisticated, and timeless appeal. The use of materials like Ceppo Di Gre marble and the incorporation of plants are recommended to add interest and life to a monochromatic scheme. Custom storage is presented as a method to elevate both the aesthetics and practicality of a luxury living room, with open shelving allowing for display and closed cabinets for discreet storage of less sightly items. The article also delves into incorporating antique elements, like large, elaborately framed mirrors, to add a distinctive vibe, expand light, and create an illusion of space, especially in smaller living rooms. Unique coffee tables, crafted from materials such as marble, carved wood, or wicker, are identified as key elements that add depth and layering to the space. The importance of coffee table decor is also stressed to achieve a curated and stylish look, suggesting a balanced arrangement of books, vases, and accessories. Creating multiple seating options is highlighted for enhancing comfort and functionality, drawing inspiration from formal palace rooms designed for various interactions. Flexible seating, including swivel chairs for dynamic conversation and benches or daybeds for versatile use, is recommended. The blog post also emphasizes the impact of oversized light pendants as central focal points that unify the room, zone spaces, and add a luxurious touch through their sculptural design and emitted glow. Printed wallpaper is introduced as a way to bring drama and stylish flair to a luxury living room, with metallic or nature-inspired prints creating moody elegance. The concept of minimalist luxury is also covered, demonstrating how high-quality, comfortable materials like linen and bouclé, combined with design-forward furniture, can create a luxurious aesthetic in a pared-back space. Architectural details, embedded tracks for window treatments, and alabaster pendant lights are cited as examples that contribute to this sophisticated minimalism. Personalization and creativity are deemed crucial for true luxury, with designers advocating for spaces that reflect the owner's personality through unique art, furniture, and collectibles, even embracing maximalism. The visual impact of oversized art is discussed, noting its ability to add color, character, and gravitas, especially when paired with statement lighting. The inclusion of classic designer furniture pieces, such as the Eames lounger, is presented as a means to convey good taste, comfort, and timeless appeal. The article further advises making the most of architectural features like fireplaces by enhancing and embracing them, creating an elevated aesthetic through textural fabrics and curated art. Well-placed area rugs are recommended for defining space, adding drama, and injecting color and pattern, particularly when extending under sofas and side tables. Upgrading feature walls with high-end materials like marble is suggested for adding interest and a luxurious statement, especially with coordinating colors. Upscale paneling is presented as a decorative element that adds grandeur and elegance, reminiscent of historical lavish interiors. Investing in daybeds or chaise longues is highlighted for their decadent luxury, French elegance, and ability to serve as stylish, comfortable reclining spots. Curved furniture, including sofas and tables, is noted for introducing softness, architectural flair, and a cozy ambiance. Finally, color drenching a space with rich, deep hues is suggested to create a sumptuous and dramatic aesthetic, with tips on painting skirting boards and window frames to match for a contemporary, monochromatic look.

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

The article introduces Castlecore, an emerging interior design trend for 2025 that draws inspiration from medieval palaces and emphasizes opulence and lavish materials. This trend has seen a significant surge in popularity, with Google searches increasing by 929 percent in the last three months, indicating its growing influence in home decoration. Castlecore is characterized by a blend of luxurious materials and ornate prints, designed to create a regal and timeless aesthetic that is surprisingly accessible for everyday homes. Key elements of the Castlecore trend include elegant seating, such as luxe sofas and embellished chairs, often featuring rich fabrics like velvet and traditional details like button tufting. The article highlights how these pieces can become focal points, citing examples from popular culture like the gold velvet chair in 'The Traitors' to illustrate their impact. Antique lighting is another crucial component, with candelabras, chandeliers, and wall sconces featuring classic tapered candle silhouettes being central to achieving the castle-esque ambiance. Options range from ornate brass chandeliers to more minimalist iron sconces, often paired with LED candles for safety and convenience. Dramatic headboards are presented as a significant way to transform a bedroom into a regal space. Upholstered velvet headboards or dark wood frames are suggested to enhance a room's moody elegance, complemented by velvet cushions, heavy curtains, and jewel-toned bedding. Canopies are also noted as a quintessential castle fixture, encouraging the mixing of French country pieces with antiqued elements for a timeless look. Dark woods, such as oak chests of drawers and reclaimed wood floorboards, contribute to the antiquated feel of the style, offering handsome and timeless elements. Extravagant ottomans, particularly those upholstered in velvet or adorned with tassels, are integral to the Castlecore aesthetic, providing both decorative appeal and functional storage. The article suggests placing them at the foot of a bed or utilizing storage ottomans to maximize their utility. Finally, ornate wallpaper is deemed essential for setting the mood of a castle-inspired room. While traditional patterns like chintz and toile are favored, solid deep maroons or browns are also suitable. The article advises incorporating colors from chintz patterns into contemporary accessories to prevent the space from feeling dated or overly fussy, thereby achieving a balanced, chic look. The article concludes by recommending that those seeking an authentic Castlecore look explore antique and vintage shops and auctions for unique pieces. It emphasizes the longevity and timelessness of investing in high-quality, luxurious items, ensuring that the decorated space remains both trendy and enduring. #CastlecoreTrend #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuriousInteriors #RegalStyle #AntiqueLighting #DramaticHeadboards #DarkWoods #OrnateWallpaper

The French Room at the Adolphus Hotel in Downtown Dallas has undergone a significant 16-month renovation, transforming its aesthetic from pastel cherubs and red velvet to brilliant white and expensive gold. This extensive facelift encompassed the restaurant’s three primary areas: the salon, the bar, and the dining room, each now boasting a contemporary and ornate appearance. Historically, The French Room maintained an elegant but somewhat dated charm, characterized by faded colors and pleated window curtains. The renovation aimed to bridge the gap between its traditional elegance and modern appeal, seeking to attract a broader clientele while retaining its prestigious identity. This required a substantial effort from the renovation team to update the decor without entirely discarding its foundational character. In the salon, the space largely retains its original architectural essence, featuring extensive carved dark wood trim and molding. The room is adorned with various artworks, and a single chandelier casts a soft, iridescent glow. Modular seating arrangements provide flexibility for accommodating different party sizes, ensuring comfort and adaptability. The bar area has also been updated, adopting a much dimmer lighting scheme that evokes the ambiance of a high-end speakeasy. It is distinguished by deep blue walls, classical paintings, and a brass ceiling. Silver trays filled with cocktail elixirs are meticulously arranged on a dark stone bar top, enhancing the sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. The dining room, often considered the heart of The French Room, maintains its original architectural framework but features extensive interior design changes. The former crushed red velvet chairs have been replaced with elegant Bergere dining chairs upholstered in pristine white fabric. Thick pleated tablecloths are set with pure white china plates, accompanied by a single glass and a gold candleholder. The previous artwork and wall coverings have been substituted with clean white and gilded flourishes. The heavily ornate molding and trim are now coated in semi-reflective gold paint, featuring classic French-style framing. Additionally, a few booth seats have been incorporated to offer guests more private dining options. Chef Michael Ehlert presides over the culinary offerings, presenting a refined take on French cuisine with dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern plating techniques. The menu, which is seasonal, includes items such as snails with pommes dauphine and watercress, seared foie gras, and consommé chartreuse. To conclude the dining experience, guests can select from The French Room’s traveling dessert cart, providing a sweet finish to their meal in this renowned Dallas establishment. #FrenchRoom #RestaurantRenovation #DallasDining #AdolphusHotel #LuxuryInteriors #FineDining #InteriorDesign #HotelRenovation #DallasRestaurants

French interiors embody sophistication and elegance, characterized by an appreciation for classical aesthetics combined with a modern and cool sensibility. This distinctive style often features tall ceilings with detailed molding and decorative vintage pieces, reminiscent of finds from Parisian flea markets. To achieve this look, several design rules are consistently followed, starting with the prominent use of wall art. French homes, particularly those in Haussmannian buildings, often boast high ceilings, making large statement artworks essential for utilizing vertical space and creating captivating focal points. Interior designers often recommend incorporating at least one major, eye-catching artwork as an anchor, around which the room's ambiance is built with carefully selected furniture and decor. A soft and neutral color scheme, primarily varying shades of white and light oak wood, is frequently employed to provide a layered foundation that enhances the surrounding art. Another fundamental rule is the use of clean, crisp white walls. Unlike subtle neutrals, French interiors typically favor stark white shades, allowing the furniture, decor, and architectural details to stand out. These white walls serve as a simple backdrop, elevating a room’s historical ornamentation and harnessing natural light. This monochromatic approach, often paired with black and grey furniture, creates a harmonious balance without overwhelming the space, especially when complementing works of art. Antiqued decor plays a crucial role in French-style living rooms. The space is populated with carefully chosen, substantial pieces, often sourced from vintage markets or charity shops, ensuring unique finds. The key is to mix styles, incorporating elements from Art Deco, mid-century, and classical periods, creating a layered effect that keeps the space feeling fresh and contemporary. The inclusion of a gilded mirror is almost a prerequisite for a French-style living room. These elegant and stately mirrors, often antique and restored with gold leaf, serve as grand centerpieces. The larger the mirror, the better, and leaning them against a mantelpiece adds an effortless, vintage feel. Such mirrors not only maintain classical French charm but also enhance the room's sense of grandeur by drawing the eye to intricate crown moldings. Intricate molding itself is a hallmark of French interiors. Ditching plain borders in favor of detailed crown molding, ceiling roses, enriched borders, and wall paneling adds significant texture to white-walled rooms, highlighting the beauty in small details. Luxe materials are also integral to the French aesthetic. Unlike the pale woods often seen in Northern European interiors, French design favors more opulent materials like marble, frequently used for decorative embellishments such as fireplaces. Gleaming metals, particularly warm tones like brass, are also incorporated to add a luxurious finish. Dramatic statement lighting is another key element. While layered lighting is popular, French designers often opt for ceiling lights that dazzle, such as elaborate chandeliers, which have evolved to offer modern interpretations of classic grandeur. These fixtures provide a significant 'wow' factor, often reflected infinitely in mirrors, creating a bridge between past and future and anchoring the space in timeless French chic. Finally, French living rooms emphasize creating a conversational space. The furniture arrangement often revolves around a fabulous coffee table, turning the flow of the room inwards to encourage and stimulate discussion. The choice of chairs, rugs, and coffee tables is pivotal in capturing the essence of the French 'art de vivre,' focusing on conviviality, sharing, and comfort. Statement rugs, for instance, not only anchor the furniture but also contribute significantly to the room's decor, enhancing both aesthetics and comfort and making the living room the heart of the home. #FrenchStyleLivingRoom #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ClassicalAesthetics #VintageFurniture #GildedMirror #CrownMolding #LuxeMaterials #StatementLighting #ConversationalSeating

The Brooklyn town house belonging to actor David Harbour and singer-actor Lily Allen is a vibrant and unconventional space, designed in collaboration with AD100 designer Billy Cotton and architect Ben Bischoff of MADE. The home, described as a "familial fantasyland of daring beauty and individual connoisseurial vision," stands in stark contrast to the prevailing trend of minimalist, neutral aesthetics. Its interiors feature a dynamic mix of chintz balloon shades, crystal chandeliers, pink silk, tiger-patterned textiles, and Mylar wallpaper, reflecting Allen's bold, eclectic, and fun personal taste, as noted by both Cotton and Harbour. The project began with the renovation of a late-19th-century Italianate brownstone in Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens neighborhood. Architect Ben Bischoff recalls the house's initial deteriorated state and the subsequent discovery of original moldings and doors beneath layers of past renovations. The couple sought to preserve the historical character while creating a casual, family-friendly environment, rejecting overt formality. Billy Cotton presented three design directions: traditional English, modern Brooklyn town house, and a layered Italian style, which the couple embraced due to the neighborhood's Italian-American history and Allen's desire for something "weird and wonderful." The layout of the house also deviates from typical conventions. The second level features a primary bath-cum-sitting room, adorned with wall-to-wall floral carpet, Zuber wallpaper, and sink stands fashioned from Louis XVI–style commodes. This eclectic design prioritizes the owners' preferences over traditional resale value concerns, as highlighted by Allen. The primary bedroom, uniquely situated as a windowless chamber between the main bath and dressing rooms, further exemplifies the personalized approach to the home's design. On the piano nobile, the kitchen and dining area are positioned at the front of the house, immediately accessible from the street, signifying its role as the home's central gathering space. Conversely, the living/garden room, featuring a double-sided sofa in emerald velvet, is located at the rear. The lower-level media room, devoid of original 19th-century details, adopts a crisp, contemporary interior with a glamorous, Madeleine Castaing-inspired aesthetic, showcasing matching tiger-patterned carpet and sofa against high-gloss, creamy-white walls. This design choice, according to Cotton, is a reflection of Allen’s captivating presence and her aversion to conventional living spaces. David Harbour, a self-proclaimed "suburban boy" accustomed to a more conventional aesthetic, expresses admiration for his wife's distinctive vision and willingness to take design risks. Despite the unconventional style, which their children playfully refer to as the "clown house," the home embodies a deeply personal and creatively executed living environment that perfectly suits the family's unique preferences. The collaboration between the homeowners, designer, and architect resulted in a unique and character-filled Brooklyn residence. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #BrooklynRealEstate #EclecticDecor #RenovationProject #ArchitecturalStyle #LuxuryInteriors

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

This article details the transformation of an Edwardian house located two miles outside Bath, situated on a hillside with views of the rolling countryside. The property was purchased by Anna, daughter of designer Susie Watson, and her husband, who recognized its potential despite its original muddled floorplan. The renovation involved a complete reorganization of the house to maximize its inherent beauty and location. A key focus of the redesign was the main bedroom, which now benefits from spectacular rural views through its double-aspect windows. The walls of this room are adorned with Susie Watson's 'Duck Egg Shalini' wallpaper, creating a serene backdrop. The windows are dressed with curtains and blinds crafted from Susie's 'Malathi' fabric, an intricately hand-embroidered linen produced by artisans in southern India, adding a touch of global artistry and texture to the space. The furniture within the bedroom was also custom-designed by Susie Watson and hand-carved in Rajasthan. These pieces are made from acacia wood, which is then bleached to achieve a warm, inviting tone. This bleaching technique allows the newly crafted furniture to integrate seamlessly with existing antique pieces, fostering a cohesive and timeless aesthetic. A notable item is a popular armoire design, which Susie highlights for its functionality and aesthetic appeal. She notes that unlike fitted furniture, which can be unattractive and costly, this armoire offers ample storage space, including both drawers and hanging areas, and has the advantage of being portable. For the flooring, a neutral herringbone carpet from Alternative Flooring was selected, providing a soft and sophisticated foundation for the room. The final touches include carefully chosen artwork displayed on the walls. These pieces are by artists previously represented by Susie Watson during her career as a gallerist in Holland Park, adding a personal and artistic dimension to the interior design. The overall design approach emphasizes a relaxed, Gustavian-inspired feel, blending traditional elements with bespoke craftsmanship to create a comfortable and elegant living space that honors the house's Edwardian heritage while adapting it for modern life. #EdwardianHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SusieWatsonDesigns #HandCarvedFurniture #BedroomDesign #GustavianStyle #Wallpaper #TextileDesign

Lindsay Marcus, an interior designer, recently completed a project in the Little Holmby Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, transforming a 1940s Colonial Revival-style residence into a transitional family home. The client sought an elevated, refined, and chic living space that was also kid-friendly in certain areas, marking a stylistic departure from their previous neutral-toned mid-century modern home. Marcus’s design philosophy for this project centered on preserving the home’s original architectural features while integrating an eclectic, layered, and elevated aesthetic. The design approach emphasized allowing the traditional aspects of the architecture to guide the overall tone of the space. To achieve a layered and collected look, Marcus incorporated mid-century lighting and modern furniture silhouettes, aiming for a balance between old and new elements, as well as color and pattern. The project's success lies in its ability to blend contrasting styles and eras into a cohesive and timeless environment. The entryway exemplifies this design vision, with its elegant architecture, including a sweeping stone staircase and refined iron banister, serving as the foundational classic elements. The space is enriched with a thoughtful mix of eras through a clean-lined dresser, varied textures in vignettes, and a vintage rug, creating a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere. For the powder room, Marcus and her team selected a rich, cool blue paint for the paneling and a dramatic mural from Gracie, transforming the small space into a jewel box. Vintage Italian Pietro Chiesa sconces and a floral ceiling flush mount from Urban Electric further enhance the room's romantic ambiance. In the living room, existing furniture, such as a royal blue Nickey Kehoe sofa and a Roche Bobois loveseat, were integrated into the new design. The Nickey Kehoe sofa inspired the room’s color palette, and the Roche Bobois loveseat was reupholstered in a striped fabric from Howe. An antique Art Deco coffee table and a French giltwood mirror from 1stDibs introduced Old Hollywood glamour and served as focal points. Italian Murano glass and brass sconces, a marble bar, and Pierre Jeanneret chairs re-covered in hair-on-hide added to the room’s luxurious feel. The walls were finished with Portola Paint’s Tikal limewash, and contemporary oil paintings by Gideon Rubin and Hannah Brown contributed to a modern sophistication. The dining room features a contrast of a rustic farmhouse table paired with original Finn Juhl chairs, reupholstered in light brown mohair, under a modern plaster chandelier, creating a harmonious blend of styles. The main bedroom maintained its existing white paneling, complemented by a neutral grasscloth wallpaper from Gregorious Pineo and a Rosa Bernal fabric for drapery, creating depth and texture without overwhelming the vintage Persian rug. Custom white oak nightstands with Rojo Alicante marble tops and Victoria Morris pottery lamps in an oxblood glaze added refined touches, while a shearling-covered womb chair provided a cozy reading nook. The children's areas were designed with distinct personalities. The playroom features bold olive green walls and wainscoting, with Farrow & Ball’s Barrow Blue paint on the paneling and ceiling, paired with a checkered wallpaper. Mustard Togo chairs provide comfortable and playful seating. The boy's room adopted a masculine palette of blues, white, and subtle greens, anchored by a Lawson Fenning bed upholstered in McLaurin and Piercy fabric. Side chairs and poufs from Sabin LA offered youthful yet sophisticated shapes, and a Zak + Fox stripe wallpaper added subtle color and texture. The second child’s room embraced a whimsical, nautical theme with a marine ceiling flush mount and Cole and Son’s Melville wallpaper, complemented by a leather sconce from Lostine and a floral bedcover from Nickey Kehoe. Marcus expressed particular satisfaction with the living room, primary bedroom, and powder room, highlighting the use of patterned drapery fabrics throughout the home as a favorite element that made each space feel special and cohesive. The designer emphasized that the client’s willingness to take risks contributed significantly to the successful and elevated outcome of the project. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColonialRevival #TransitionalStyle #LuxuryHomes #HomeMakeover #DecoratingIdeas #ColorAndPattern

The article highlights Alexandra Daddario's stylish LA living room, emphasizing its blend of art deco glamor and retro hues. It notes that Daddario's home, particularly her living room, offers a sophisticated aesthetic that rivals the opulent settings seen in 'The White Lotus.' The space features fluted wall paneling, a distinctive emerald green sofa, and geometric-printed cushions, creating a timeless yet daring design. The design approach in Daddario's living room is characterized by its quiet luxury, drawing parallels to Parisian apartment aesthetics with its classic materials and vintage touches. Etsy's trend expert, Dayna Isom Johnson, underscores the significance of the 'Parisian interiors' trend, which focuses on the French 'art de vivre' or 'art of living well.' Johnson recommends incorporating classic, high-quality materials and antique finds such as gilded mirrors, marble accents, and ornate oil paintings, paired with dark woods and light walls, to achieve this look. The article points out that Daddario is already ahead of current design movements, particularly the resurgence of dark wood, as evidenced by significant increases in searches for walnut desks and brown seating on Etsy. Alexandra Daddario's living room also exemplifies the Art Deco style through its deliberate contrasts. It combines rich, dark wood tones from pieces like her dining table with softer elements such as creamy-colored paneling and gold accents. The emerald green velvet sofa, along with carefully placed houseplants, integrates contemporary trends while maintaining a timeless appeal. The article concludes by suggesting three key items—a green velvet sofa, a geometric decorative pillow, and an Art Deco decanter—that can help readers emulate Daddario's aesthetic, allowing them to infuse their own spaces with the same blend of retro charm and art deco sophistication. #CelebrityHomes #ArtDeco #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomDecor #RetroHues #ParisianStyle #HomeTrends #LuxuryInteriors #DesignInspiration

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