An Austin Couple Turn a Ranch Home Into a Refreshing Live/Work Space

Lindsey and Ruth, a couple from Teesside with two young children, Aria and Ivy, faced significant challenges with their home's layout before renovation. The existing structure featured a cramped living room, kitchen, and dining room, offering limited living space and minimal storage. A major inconvenience was the tiny hallway at the entrance, which opened directly onto the stairs, making it difficult to maneuver a baby stroller and causing a bottleneck for entering and exiting the house. Furthermore, the cloakroom's location near the kitchen meant traversing the entire house to store coats and shoes, highlighting a general lack of practicality in their living arrangement. Despite having a beautiful garden, the house's internal design failed to optimize its potential or cater to the needs of a growing family. The couple allocated £52,000 for the renovation, surpassing their initial budget of £40,000, after securing design proposals from architects Laura Jane Clark and Robert Jamison on the BBC2 show 'Your Home Made Perfect.' They were particularly drawn to Laura Jane Clark's design, which promised to transform their disjointed dwelling into a cohesive, open-plan space. The core of Clark's innovative approach involved relocating the staircase to the left, which dramatically opened up the entrance. This created a spacious, light-filled hallway that not only solved the immediate problem of navigating with a pram but also established a clear connection between the front entrance and the rear of the house and garden. This alteration also provided ample storage solutions, addressing a critical need for the family. The renovation also entailed breaking down walls to merge the previously segmented kitchen, living room, and dining room into a single, expansive open-plan area. This change was crucial for Lindsey and Ruth, who desired an interconnected space where they could easily keep an eye on their children while engaging in other household activities. The new design incorporated bi-fold windows, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and offering continuous views of the garden. Although Clark initially envisioned the open space primarily for dining and an open kitchen, the couple adapted it to include a central dining table and a comfortable sitting area, effectively extending the living space by 1.7 meters into the garden. Another significant transformation involved the garage, which had previously served as an overflow pantry due to the kitchen's lack of storage. Despite Lindsey's initial reluctance to convert it for fear of devaluing the property, the garage was ultimately repurposed into a functional utility room, equipped with a washing machine and dryer. The comprehensive redesign included the integration of sleek, modern cupboards throughout the kitchen and in the new entrance hallway, ensuring that storage was no longer an issue. The outcome was a home that not only met the practical demands of the family but also garnered widespread praise from viewers for its stunning transformation and thoughtful design elements. #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRelocation #HomeDesign #InteriorTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceOptimization #StorageSolutions

Carole and Don Watanabe have transformed an ordinary 1963 California ranch-style house in Sebastopol into a unique and vibrant living art piece called Chez La Vie. Carole, a multi-talented artist, and Don, an architect, collaborate to create a home that is an ongoing project of artistic expression and precision. The property encompasses multiple structures, including their main residence, an attached apartment for Don's father, an appealing guesthouse known as the Art Chapel, and various utilitarian sheds that are integrated into the artistic landscape. The main house immediately catches the eye with its vibrant ultramarine blue exterior, trimmed with deep turquoise and brick red. A wide berm in front of the property features Carole's "drive-by gallery," where steel frames crowned with corrugated aluminum roofs will display sheet metal paintings by local children, sold to support school art programs. The entrance to their home and Don Sr.'s apartment are adorned with enormous antique Indonesian facades made of intricately carved teak. Tall columns flanking the Watanabe entrance are covered in colorful spirals, created by Carole using abandoned mirrors and broken ceramics, giving them a jewel-box appearance. This use of found and repurposed materials is a hallmark of Carole's work, with a significant portion of the home's materials sourced from salvaged items, often acquired for minimal cost from places like a Santa Rosa Goodwill store. The backyard features a stream circulating water through the Paradiso Pond, which Carole considers her most significant work. The pond, a 4-foot-deep, rubber-lined creation, is landscaped with truckloads of rock and adorned with lilies and other water plants, evoking a Monet painting. On the western edge of the property, an outdoor fireplace, a table under a large tree, painted chairs, tiled tables, carved benches, tiny sculptures, clever mobiles, and painted fences contribute to the whimsical atmosphere. A curving dragon made of random ceramics weaves through the garden, intersected by brick pathways leading to a double-doored gateway to the neighbor's property. Inside, the whimsical aesthetic continues with furniture crafted from discarded wood and an assortment of found objects. Walls are accented with Carole's cursive writing and display her paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Recessed altars and mirrors decorated with colorful tiles are present throughout the interior. The flooring varies from room to room, incorporating area rugs and even a floor covered with squares of fabric and old photographs sealed with Varathane. The master bedroom features a custom-made headboard and Carole's handwriting on the walls, while her studio serves as her creative sanctuary. The Watanabes envision Chez La Vie as an "elder compound" where they can age gracefully amidst their beloved creations. They plan to host art openings in their spacious backyard, with a pizza oven available for guests. Banners of art, much of it created by children, will adorn patios and fences, transforming the home into an interactive gallery open to the public. #HomeTransformation #ArtisticHome #RanchHouseRenovation #SebastopolHomes #CreativeCouple #FoundObjectsArt #GardenDesign #SustainableDesign #SonomaHomes

David and Emma Engerer, a young couple, have embarked on a significant endeavor to revitalize the historic Stuart Neighborhood in Kalamazoo through the renovation and rental of its aging houses. David, 28, from metro Detroit, and Emma, 22, from Austin, Texas, met at a skateboarding contest in Houston and later married in October 2019. Their venture into real estate began after David's graduation from Western Michigan University, encouraged by his father to purchase and renovate older homes to generate rental income. The couple's commitment to the neighborhood is evident in their hands-on approach to renovations, with David performing most of the restoration work alongside Emma. Their efforts have been lauded by local residents, including Gary Wark, president of the Stuart Area Restoration Association, who notes the positive contrast with absentee landlords. The Engerers are part of a growing trend of younger individuals investing in the historic area, which boasts many houses dating back to the 1870s when it was a thriving community for businessmen and professionals. David emphasizes the importance of maintaining a vision for the properties' potential, despite the inherent challenges of home fix-ups. Their first acquisition was an American Foursquare stucco house at 821 Kalamazoo Ave., built in 1910. Originally a single-family residence, it had been converted into a duplex in the 1920s and suffered from neglect, including foundation, roof, plumbing, and electrical issues. Emma humorously compared it to the 'Money Pit' movie. Despite its condition, the house had existing tenants, and its structural integrity was surprisingly sound. This initial project served as a significant learning experience for the couple. Following this, the Engerers purchased two more 19th-century homes in the neighborhood, with plans for additional acquisitions. One of these is their personal residence, a 4,000-square-foot Queen Anne Victorian at 418 Stuart Ave., known as the French/Allen House, built in 1895. This house, rich in history with four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, stained-glass windows, and a sweeping veranda, was originally appointed by Marshall Field. It was once owned by Dorr French, a justice of the peace and city attorney, and later by Harold Allen, vice president of First National Bank and corporate secretary for The Upjohn Co. They acquired this house in May 2020 at a reduced price, undertaking interior upgrades such as replacing old galvanized steel pipes and plumbing, replicating door moldings, and re-doing bathrooms, all while meticulously preserving the historic integrity. David expresses strong disapproval of renovations that strip old homes of their original charming features. Local historian Sharon Carlson, a resident of the Stuart Neighborhood, commends the Engerers' dedication, noting that landlords who live in the neighborhood tend to be the most effective. In July 2020, they bought another rental property at 500 Stuart Ave., a four-unit dwelling built by George Rickman in the late 1880s, one of three brick Queen Anne-style houses on the street. They are currently performing exterior and limited interior renovations, with more extensive work planned as tenant leases expire. This house, along with its neighbors, is distinctive for its brick construction, unusual for Victorian homes of that era. Emma, who initially had no plans to leave Texas, credits her move to Michigan to her relationship with David and a strong sense of divine guidance. She discovered Michigan's distinct seasons, a new experience compared to Texas. David's background includes a past as an aspiring professional skateboarder and snowskater, sponsored by Ambition Snowskates. He graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in exercise science, initially intending to become a physical therapist, but discovered a passion for home renovation after summer jobs involving repairs. David's father, a successful physical therapist and experienced home renovator, has been a significant mentor, guiding them with insights into making properties profitable and managing renovations. The Engerers emphasize that while financial viability is crucial for such projects, passion and vision are paramount. They plan to remain in the Stuart Neighborhood long-term, expressing their love for the community and its historical homes. #HistoricHomeRenovations #StuartNeighborhood #KalamazooRealEstate #PropertyInvestment #CommunityRevitalization #QueenAnneVictorian #OldHouseRestoration #RentalProperties #NeighborhoodDevelopment

The article details the renovation journey of Christine Bayles Kortsch and her husband, Daniel Kortsch, as they transformed their 1924 Craftsman bungalow in Denver's Congress Park neighborhood. The initial challenge with their 1,800-square-foot home was its traditional bungalow floorplan, characterized by a cramped, narrow kitchen at the back of the house. This layout presented several issues, including a significant lack of natural light, which was crucial for Christine's food photography, and a highly inconvenient back door placement that opened onto an L-shaped staircase, making grocery carrying difficult. A single-width door between the kitchen and dining room also created a constant point of congestion for their family of four, who frequently entertained guests. After years of attempting minor cosmetic fixes like painting dark cabinets white and updating living room furnishings, the couple realized these superficial changes were insufficient to address the fundamental problems of the dysfunctional layout. This realization prompted them to undertake a comprehensive kitchen remodel during the pandemic. For this significant project, they enlisted the expertise of Christine’s sister-in-law, Vivian Bayles, a Manhattan-based interior designer and architect, and local builder Jim Copeland of Copeland Craftworks. The core of the renovation involved a strategic overhaul of the floorplan. Instead of simply modifying the partition wall at the back of the kitchen, they removed it entirely. The small, unusable nook was transformed by replacing its window with a 10-light glass door leading to a new exterior deck. The area previously occupied by the nook now serves as a spacious landing for a new, straight staircase to the basement, significantly improving accessibility and flow. Furthermore, the narrow doorway connecting the dining room and kitchen was dramatically widened, creating a more open and integrated living space. Another key improvement was the removal of a hard-to-access, recessed pantry located behind the old kitchen, above the back stairs. This change allowed for the installation of a full-depth refrigerator, a high priority for Christine, aligning seamlessly with the new cabinetry and appliances. Storage capacity was also enhanced by extending the new cabinets to the ceiling, maximizing vertical space. Rick Lutz, a kitchen designer from Home Depot, assisted with the cabinet configuration, emphasizing efficiency within the existing footprint. To maintain the home's historic character while integrating modern functionality, crown molding was added throughout the kitchen, dining, and living room, sourced from Austin Hardwoods to match the period. For finishes, Christine prioritized texture and a sense of aged patina, moving beyond standard modern choices. She selected durable Super White dolomite for the countertops, which offered a neutral surface ideal for photography while adding a distinctive natural stone element. The backsplash features Liberty thin-brick Clé tile, inspired by early 20th-century New York City, chosen for its uneven, rough texture that introduces character. A notable design decision was to conceal the microwave in a custom cabinet beneath the countertop, avoiding its traditional placement above the range, and Daniel designed and built a custom plaster-and-white-oak hood. The dining area received an unobtrusive chandelier by the Light Factory, a refurbished wooden table, a custom-built bench by Daniel, and vintage 1960s Danish chairs, fostering a rustic, communal atmosphere. The renovation also integrated the kitchen's new aesthetic with the rest of the main floor by updating the living room's fireplace hearth with leftover dolomite and white-oak trim, tying it to the new white-oak floors and complementing the home's existing bold wallpaper. Christine emphasized that the project, constrained by footprint and budget, fostered creativity, resulting in a bright, efficient, and cohesive space that respects the home's history while meeting contemporary needs. #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanBungalow #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DenverHomes #HistoricPreservation #FloorplanTransformation #CustomCabinetry #ArchitecturalRenovation

Mark and Mitzi Knust, a Houston couple, undertook a comprehensive renovation of their Galveston Bay vacation home to accommodate their expanding family, including grandchildren. Mark Knust's childhood memories of spending summers in his family's Galveston vacation home inspired a desire for his own children and grandchildren to share similar experiences. In 1985, the couple initially purchased a home in Pirates Cove with Mark’s brother, but later acquired a larger property in the same neighborhood to better suit their growing family. This home became a cherished place where their two sons, now 34 and 31, learned to fish and swim, and frequently hosted friends. The home faced significant damage in 2008 from Hurricane Ike’s storm surge, which destroyed the bottom level and led to looting. Despite this setback, the Knusts rebuilt and continued to host family and friends. By 2015, with the arrival of grandchildren, they recognized the need for an even larger space to comfortably host three generations and foster their shared love for water sports. After considering building a new home, they opted to purchase an existing property in Pirates Cove, confident that with the right professionals, they could transform it into their ideal family retreat. They enlisted Doug LeBoeuf of LeBoeuf Homes, their preferred builder, and interior designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors. The renovation, which began in January 2016 and concluded in November of the same year, aimed for a more contemporary aesthetic with light colors and comfortable, casual furnishings. Given Mark's height of 6 feet 5 inches and their sons' similar stature (one being a 275-pound power lifter), the furniture needed to be sturdy and generously sized. The design also had to be sophisticated enough for semi-retired grandparents while durable enough for a messy grandchild who enjoyed spaghetti. The initial design challenges included yellow interior walls and dated, traditional furnishings. Flanigan's approach prioritized maximizing changes within a reasonable budget. A key transformation involved repainting the yellow walls white, often incorporating a shiplap treatment, to create a clean, fresh, coastal, and airy atmosphere. The color palette shifted to contemporary grays and earthy neutrals, accented with soft blue-green tones inspired by the ocean. Durability was a paramount concern, with nearly all furniture being new and upholstered in tough, indoor-outdoor fabrics to ensure the home was extremely livable for active grandchildren. The renovation also included a complete overhaul of the master bathroom and significant updates to the kitchen and other bathrooms. Major surface changes included refinishing the wood flooring from an orange-pine to a natural look. The chunky limestone fireplace was replaced with a concrete finish, shiplap, and a reclaimed wood mantel, with ceramic balls inside the fireplace becoming a favorite feature for Mark. Four-inch tiles on kitchen and bathroom counters were replaced with sheets of super-sturdy Neolith sintered stone. In the master bathroom, an oversized garden tub was replaced with a slimmer soaking tub, and Saltillo tile was swapped for wood-look porcelain tile in a dark taupe finish. Natural wood cabinets were stained brown and topped with gray-veined Neolith stone, mimicking Carrara marble without the maintenance. The finished design created a clean and flawless environment, with comfortable furniture and rooms perfectly suited to the Knusts and their family. One guest room was specifically designed for grandchildren with twin beds and matching trunks, and a sectional sofa on the second-floor landing provided additional sleeping space. The couple’s collaboration with Flanigan, despite initial hesitations from Mark on certain design elements like the ceramic fireplace balls and a large pendant light in the master bedroom, ultimately resulted in a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing home that met their intergenerational living needs. The home also incorporated sentimental elements, such as a collection of wildlife art and taxidermy fish mounts, which Flanigan’s team successfully integrated into the updated décor. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GalvestonBayHome #FamilyLiving #CoastalDecor #BeforeAndAfter #MarieFlaniganInteriors #LeBoeufHomes #DesignTransformation

This article details the comprehensive renovation and interior design of a 1970s ranch home in Brentwood, TN, undertaken by its second owner, Tyler Pennington. Having admired the house since childhood, Tyler purchased it from the original owners and embarked on a transformation project to update it for his family of five while preserving its original architectural charm, which he describes as reminiscent of the New England coast. The renovation involved reconfiguring the internal space, adding a second story, and selecting finishes and furnishings to suit a modern lifestyle with young children, without sacrificing its classic aesthetic. Tyler, who owns White Pines Building Group, managed much of the construction work himself. He collaborated with architect Champ Webb of C.W. Design and Andrew King of AK Designs for the second-story addition and exterior elements. For the interior design, he enlisted Sara Ray Interior Design, aiming for a contemporary look that avoided excessive modernity or trendiness. Sara Ray focused on creating a design that blended classic, traditional elements with clean lines and modern touches, prioritizing durable fabrics for furnishings and incorporating vintage rugs to withstand daily wear and tear from three young children. The design also balanced masculine and feminine touches, with a deliberate emphasis on timeless pieces that would retain their appeal over decades. Throughout the renovation, Tyler made efforts to integrate natural and historically relevant materials. While the interior was largely gutted, original materials were reused, and aspects of the original design were recreated. For instance, new poplar molding was installed in the entryway and dining room, hardwood floors were milled locally in Leiper’s Fork, and windows were designed to replicate the original grid pattern. A significant part of the project involved relocating the original fireplace, with its salvaged limestone being repurposed to create a new, two-story focal point in the central living area. The main floor features an open layout with a living area, dining area, and kitchen. The living space, characterized by a wall of doors and a double-story ceiling, displays a masculine-meets-modern aesthetic with warm accent colors against a white backdrop. The renovated kitchen prioritizes brightness, featuring a large center island, a tile backsplash, a polished limestone hood, and light fixtures with brass shades. The dining room, located off the main entry, showcases a reclaimed wood table with an industrial base, brass-foot chairs, and upholstered end chairs, all illuminated by a modern light fixture. Other rooms, such as the powder room, continue the theme of simple design with character. The children's bedrooms were designed with personalized touches. The oldest daughter's room is colorful, while the youngest daughter's features pinks and frills. The middle child's room incorporates antelope wallpaper and a vintage brass deer head, reflecting his interest in hunting. Bathrooms feature muted color schemes, penny tile flooring, and unique fixtures. The second floor accommodates a guest bedroom, children's bedrooms, a playroom, and a study area, while the third floor includes a sleeping nook with bunk-style beds and another playroom with a slide connecting to the second floor. The exterior of the house largely maintains its original appearance, with subtle updates such as a cedar roof, copper gas lanterns, updated stonework, and custom corbels. The transformation successfully merges the home's historic essence with modern family living, ensuring its continued admiration. #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #InteriorDesign #ClassicModern #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalPreservation #SustainableDesign #SaraRayInteriors #NashvilleHomes

Marie Lu, a bestselling author, and Primo Gallanossa, a game designer, sought a flexible and inspiring urban sanctuary in downtown Los Angeles's Arts District. They commissioned architecture firm CHA:COL to transform a 1,450-square-foot live/work loft into a space that could accommodate their writing and game design needs between frequent travels. The design brief emphasized creating a creative den for work, relaxation, and retreat. CHA:COL, led by design principals Apurva Pande and Chinmaya Misra, drew inspiration from the couple's professional backgrounds, particularly the game "Monument Valley" and the whimsical geometries of M.C. Escher. The central element of the loft is the "Writer’s Block," a custom-designed, multifaceted piece of oak veneer millwork. This versatile unit functions as a desk on one side, a lounge on the other, and incorporates shelving, effectively dividing the space while offering multiple uses. The design aimed to allow the clients to navigate and inhabit the loft in unique ways, much like Princess Ida moves through different levels in the Monument Valley game. The loft's design integrates both two-dimensional and three-dimensional elements. For example, white oak planks from the Writer’s Block seamlessly transition into FLOR carpet tiles that extend up an opposing wall, complemented by a matching mural. This playful mashup creates an optical illusion, making the two-dimensional elements appear three-dimensional and vice versa. Extensive studies were conducted to achieve the precise geometry for the wall art, eventually simplifying to paint swatches to complete the effect. Beyond the primary workspace, the loft also includes dedicated sleeping and kitchen areas. The kitchen features IKEA cabinets and a peninsular bar designed to encourage social interaction. Acoustic considerations were incorporated into the design, and the space is illuminated by a Zaneen pendant in addition to natural light from a facade of windows. The bathroom features a minimalist, monochromatic aesthetic with a custom white lacquer vanity and Porcelanosa tiles. The sleeping area is discreetly tucked away at the back of the loft, illuminated by a George Nelson Saucer Lamp. The project successfully created a highly functional and creatively stimulating environment. Initially conceived as an occasional getaway, the loft proved so effective that the clients found themselves spending more time there, reducing their need for frequent commuting. The design prioritized a simple, streamlined palette and carefully selected light fixtures that enhanced the spatial flow and movement within the loft, creating an urban oasis that fosters creativity and well-being. #LiveWorkLoft #CreativeSpace #GameDesignInspired #MultifunctionalFurniture #LosAngelesArchitecture #SmallSpaces #InteriorDesign #CustomMillwork

Laird Memory and Matt Bunting, an Atlanta couple, transformed a former ranger station and law office in Highlands, North Carolina, into a mountain retreat. Despite its initial unattractive interiors, featuring fake wood paneling and brown carpet, the property's prime location near town made it an appealing investment for a second home. To maximize views and enhance entertaining capabilities, the couple collaborated with Atlanta architect David Colgan to add a second floor, creating an "upside-down house" layout. This design places the main living areas, such as the living room and kitchen, on the upper level, while the bedrooms are situated downstairs. This arrangement allows the social spaces to benefit from expansive views, including those of Harris Lake, visible from the large windows, vaulted ceiling, and a spacious porch of the living area. The interior design, personally overseen by Laird Memory, who channels her creativity from years at Turner Broadcasting into art and decorating projects, blends modern and traditional elements. The home is adorned with a mix of vintage, thrift-store finds, and contemporary pieces, notably large-scale, domed light fixtures hanging from the 15-foot ceilings. Memory's fondness for the color red is evident throughout the house, which she considers a neutral that brings happiness. Local history and charm are incorporated through enlarged and framed vintage postcards of Highlands displayed on the walls. The kitchen, originally an Ikea birch Shaker-style setup, was customized with Benjamin Moore "Victorian Garden" paint and complemented by brass fixtures and accessories, adding warmth against subway tiles. The living room features midcentury-style sofas and chairs, layered with rugs from eBay and handmade pillows. The wooden staircase banister, designed by Laird with rounded cutouts and built by Mason Neil of MountainKraft Builders, also reflects a personal touch, alongside a quilted flag made from wool blankets. In the master bedroom, cheeky bird prints by artist Charlie Harper are framed and paired with vintage side chests, and the wooden bed, though from Target, mimics the appearance of a more expensive panel bed. A guest bedroom adopts a navy-and-white color scheme, industrial-style headboards, and lively Kantha quilts. The master bathroom is appointed with travertine tiles and a tree-stump table for added warmth, with black doors and window mullions used consistently throughout the house. The exterior of the former ranger station now presents a cottage chic aesthetic, painted in a dark hue with a bright red door. Matt Bunting noted the advantage of remodeling a commercial building, particularly its durable construction by the parks department decades ago. The family, including children Raleigh and Augie, resides in Buckhead but frequently enjoys their time in Highlands, engaging in activities such as trail wandering and exploring the town. Matt observes that they often see their Atlanta friends more frequently in Highlands than in their primary residence, highlighting the area's appeal as a communal getaway. The project successfully transformed a functional but uninspired commercial structure into a personalized and inviting residential space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while accommodating the family's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. #HighlandsNorthCarolina #MountainHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #UpsideDownHouse #VintageDecor #DIYDecor #CreativeLiving #SecondHome

Kelly and Ben Wells embarked on a renovation project for their 1942 Atlanta home, specifically targeting its outdated kitchen and compartmentalized floor plan. They were drawn to the house precisely because it lacked a newly remodeled kitchen, presenting an opportunity to personalize their first home. The original layout was characterized by small, separate rooms that hindered social gatherings. To address this, the couple undertook a significant renovation that involved removing walls to merge three distinct areas into an open-concept living, dining, and kitchen space. This transformation aimed to create a cohesive and flowing environment suitable for their social lifestyle, marking a shift from a choppy to a modern motif. The home will be featured in the Junior League of Atlanta Tour of Kitchens. The renovation, which spanned five months, involved a comprehensive overhaul of the kitchen, including gutting and repositioning its layout. The main living area, originally split-level, was leveled to establish a continuous space, and the guest bathroom also underwent renovation. In the kitchen, transitional-style cabinetry from Schrock was installed, complemented by Statuario Maximus Caesarstone quartz countertops fabricated and installed by Stone Design. Floating shelves crafted from rift-cut oak by Jay Rambo Co. were integrated above a backsplash of weathered white Cle Tile. The kitchen was further equipped with high-end appliances from Viking, including a refrigerator, oven, and microwave, along with a brass faucet from Newport Brass. An exposed brick fireplace was enhanced with a reclaimed wood mantel from Atlanta Specialty Woods. The interior design style of the home blends transitional aesthetics with modern farmhouse elements. The Wells emphasized incorporating a mix of furniture styles and heirlooms to create a personalized and authentic living space, advising against a purely 'store-bought' look. Their décor includes pieces from a variety of retailers such as Serena & Lily, Ballard Designs, RH, Rejuvenation, Crate & Barrel, Redefined Home Boutique, Pottery Barn, Casabella, Anthropologie, and HomeGoods. Textiles and rugs were sourced from West Elm, Scott Antique Market, Amber Interiors, Serena & Lily, Peridot, Anthropologie, and HomeGoods. Lighting fixtures are from Circa Lighting and Serena & Lily, while art pieces come from Christine Flynn, Peridot, One Kings Lane, and Rejuvenation. The guest bathroom features honeycomb and subway tiles, with a vanity from RH and accessories from Rejuvenation. The master bedroom incorporates linens from West Elm and decorative pillows from Scott Antique Market, with a reading nook transformed from a former master closet. The 2,300 square-foot home in Atlanta's Springlake neighborhood comprises four bedrooms and three bathrooms. #HomeRenovation #KitchenRemodel #OpenConcept #InteriorDesign #TransitionalStyle #ModernFarmhouse #AtlantaHomes #HomeDécor #FloorPlanTransformation

Interior designer Evans Geisler and her architect husband undertook a significant renovation of their two-story Williamsburg row house, transforming it from a dual-unit bachelor pad into a single-family home tailored for a family with three young sons. The couple purchased the house in 2014 from Geisler’s brother, who had acquired it in 2007. The initial state of the house was characterized by two separate units: one on the ground floor occupied by Geisler's brother's college roommate, and the second floor where her brother resided. The primary goal of the renovation was to consolidate these into a cohesive single-family residence, while also incorporating a small pied-à-terre apartment at the back of the second floor. Geisler described the house's original aesthetic as typical of two young men living in Williamsburg, lacking architectural personality and requiring a comprehensive update. The row houses in Williamsburg are often narrow and basic, prompting Geisler's initial improvement to be the removal of the entryway hallway, which she believed contributed to a sense of confinement. On the main floor, the design strategy focused on creating an open-plan layout by removing as many interior walls as possible, integrating the kitchen and living room into a single fluid space. A key element of this transformation was the restoration of the original staircase, which, along with a newly installed built-in bookcase, became prominent focal points upon entering the home. The original staircase, deemed the only element possessing inherent character, underwent extensive restoration. Layers of paint were meticulously stripped from the newel post, missing balusters were replaced, and the treads and handrail were stained dark, contrasting with white-painted balusters. In the kitchen, the design incorporated Caesarstone countertops and Ikea cabinets, complemented by open shelving. Geisler highlighted her preference for open shelving in the kitchen, noting that maintaining a coordinated look with white, off-white, and wood elements facilitated a clean and harmonious aesthetic. The renovation also extended to the rear of the first floor, where the bathroom was enlarged. A playroom was created in this area, featuring a Murphy bed for accommodating guests and a built-in desk designed for homework, catering to the needs of a growing family. Upstairs, new walls were constructed to define two bedrooms and to functionally separate the aforementioned rear apartment from the main living quarters of the house. Geisler's overarching design philosophy for the home was to create a casual and highly kid-friendly environment, given that she had a toddler and was pregnant during the renovation. This involved avoiding overly fussy or expensive elements and implementing organizational systems to mitigate clutter and manage the daily demands of family life. All three sons share a single bedroom, which is equipped with a crib and custom bunk beds. Geisler acknowledged that some might find this arrangement unconventional but noted its general effectiveness, particularly in fostering interaction among the boys. The interior walls throughout the house were uniformly painted in Benjamin Moore's Chalk White, and the floors were stained to the darkest possible shade. Geisler emphasized the importance of a cohesive design throughout the entire house, asserting that a consistent aesthetic facilitates a smooth transition between rooms and contributes to a unified overall impression. #WilliamsburgRenovation #InteriorDesign #KidFriendlyHome #OpenPlanLiving #StaircaseRestoration #KitchenDesign #CustomBunkBeds #FamilyHome #BrooklynDesign

Randall, a Texas native, initially planned to renovate his two-story Austin home. However, an aerial view via drone revealed the potential for a third story with a downtown view, prompting him to pursue building a taller home from scratch. His initial blueprints were drafted with his builder brother-in-law, and Davenport Builders and interior designer Taylor Clouse were engaged to execute the vision. Midway through the process, Randall and his partner, Sebastian, became engaged, necessitating a reevaluation of the home's size to accommodate both their remote work needs and shared living spaces. This led to a significant design modification, extending the third-floor roof deck to include Randall's office and creating a dedicated office for Sebastian on the second floor. A central challenge in the design process was to imbue the new-build with a sense of established character, avoiding a sterile, off-the-shelf appearance. Clouse guided the couple to draw inspiration from unconventional sources like Ted Baker suits, black-sand beaches in Iceland, and 1970s films such as *The Holy Mountain*, rather than typical home design references. Sebastian also contributed his ideas, and Clouse facilitated the integration of their diverse inspirations. The open-concept living area was strategically furnished with a mix of substantial pieces, like two side-by-side Menu coffee tables, and lighter elements to define distinct zones. Custom textiles, including a blue-green chenille cushion, velvet Zoffany ombré fabric, and Pierre Frey fabric on the pillows, added texture and depth. For the dining area, a lightweight oak table from ABC Home was chosen for its versatility, allowing easy repositioning for entertaining. This was grounded by a 1920s Baluchi pictorial rug and paired with Bruno Rey dining chairs. The couple developed a passion for art and collecting, with Sebastian contributing pottery pieces inherited from his Nicaraguan grandmother, displayed on open kitchen shelves. Randall, during construction, amassed a collection of 60 to 70 pieces from estate sales and online auctions, which Clouse meticulously mapped out for display. Strategic placement, such as hanging a Gertrude Abercrombie painting in the primary bedroom windows and using a continuous drapery rod, was employed to create visual symmetry in an otherwise offset wall. Budget considerations were balanced with a desire for elevated aesthetics. In the bathroom, black stone subway tile from The Tile Shop was combined with luxurious Paonazzo gold marble slabs, creating a historic feel. The walls were painted in Farrow & Ball’s Mouse’s Back. Clouse emphasized the importance of small, layered details in achieving an aged aesthetic. Contemporary white oak floors received a lived-in finish, while window frames were painted standard black. The stair railing was accentuated with Farrow & Ball’s Brinjal, a moody aubergine, and the first-floor ceilings were painted a pale green to enhance the sense of space. The primary bedroom features Sarah Sherman Samuel’s painterly striped fabric from Lulu and Georgia for roman shades and curtains. A smaller bolster pillow is upholstered in Pierre Frey’s Yeti fabric, reminiscent of a dirty martini. An overscale Max Ernst painting hangs above the bed, flanked by Hay nightstand lights. To source unique items, Clouse visited the Round Top Antiques Fair with the clients, where they acquired Hans Olsen leather sling chairs and a Svante Skogh love seat for reupholstering. Affordable elements, such as $7 Amazon kitchen cabinet handles and Tile Shop tiles, were integrated to manage costs. Initially, Randall expressed concern about the prominence of red and green in the color palette, fearing a "Christmas house" aesthetic. However, Clouse reassured him that by utilizing varying shades, such as a merlot velvet bed paired with an olive green Pierre Frey pillow, the complementary colors would blend harmoniously without a holiday connotation. On the third floor, a black marble CB2 table and a round Persian Gabbeh rug create an inviting flow at the top of the stairs, adjacent to a bar area. The third-floor bathroom features a vibrant red theme, with Portola Paints limewash custom-matched to the bar shelves and a clay sink by Nood Co, culminating in what Randall calls the "party bathroom." The terrace patio is furnished with Hay’s sage green outdoor chairs surrounding a travertine dining table, with a portable Hay lamp that transitions between indoor and outdoor use. #AustinHomeTour #NewBuildOldFeel #TaylorClouseInteriors #CustomHomeDesign #ColorPalette #VintageFinds #InteriorDesign #HomeOffice #ArtCollection #BudgetDecor

Architect Burton Baldridge, founder of Baldridge Architects, was commissioned to design a grand residence on a ranch in Fredericksburg, Texas, approximately two hours from Austin. This project followed a previous collaboration with the clients on their Austin home in 2017. The new ranch property, known as Roam Ranch, is owned by entrepreneurs Taylor Collins and Katie Forrest, co-founders of Epic Provisions. After selling their company to General Mills in 2016, the couple relocated to the ranch during the pandemic and now operate Force of Nature, a company specializing in 100% grass-fed beef, bison, and pork. The clients' vision for Roam Ranch was to create a full-time family home suitable for their young family, while also accommodating business ventures such as hosted events and podcasts. A significant challenge for Baldridge was integrating two existing barn structures from the 1800s into a cohesive and functional living space that could serve both personal and professional needs. The resulting 4,362-square-foot home embodies a rustic yet modern ranch aesthetic, featuring four bedrooms, four bathrooms, two kitchens, expansive living areas, generous terraces, and a covered carport designed to double as an entertainment space. Baldridge drew inspiration from historic dogtrot-style settler buildings, which feature enclosed living or working spaces connected by a covered, open-air area. This architectural element is particularly functional in the scorching Texas summers, providing shade and facilitating natural breezes. In Roam Ranch, the central open space functions as both a carport and a dogtrot, linking the detached sleeping and living wings of the house. This design choice highlights a distinctive approach, as Baldridge noted that carports are typically an afterthought in architectural design. The exterior of the residence blends with the natural landscape, constructed from Douglas fir, a material prevalent in central Texas, and Corten Steel. The interior incorporates locally sourced materials, including limestone from the property for the fireplace hearth. Other natural materials used throughout the home include rift-sawn oak, cedar, Douglas fir, and clay tile in the bathrooms. A notable and unconventional feature of Roam Ranch is a barn that has been repurposed into a pickleball court, further demonstrating the innovative and versatile design of the property. The house's design prioritizes both minimalist aesthetics and high functionality, accommodating the diverse needs of the owners and their working ranch environment. #minimalistDesign #ranchHome #texasHillCountry #baldridgeArchitects #epicProvisions #forceOfNature #dogtrotArchitecture #sustainableLiving #fredericksburgTexas

This article details the home renovation project undertaken by Victoria and Marcus Ford, focusing on the transformation of their bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. The couple's approach to home decor is described as "intentional," selecting items that reflect their personalities and bring soul to their living spaces. The bedroom makeover centered on creating a tranquil retreat using a light blue paint color for the walls, complemented by darker blue tones in a patchwork quilt and a Kazak-style rug. Personal touches such as souvenir pennants, vintage tennis rackets, and an old state fair sign were integrated to add meaning. A gallery wall above the bed features reproduced "Black ABCs" flash cards, reflecting Victoria's appreciation for African American culture. For functionality, a multipurpose desk replaced traditional nightstands, accommodating work-from-home needs and paired with a repurposed barrel chair. The bedroom also incorporated a pillow-top mattress from the Country Living Welcome Home collection to enhance comfort. Nautical elements, including a flag with Captain James Lawrence's famous order and wooden African American sea captains, were introduced on a dresser, which was painted in Sherwin-Williams' Courtyard, to align with Marcus's interests. The bathroom underwent a significant reconfiguration, moving from an off-center vanity layout to a symmetrical design featuring two wooden vanities. This transformation incorporated a mix of ribbed hardware, brass sconces, chrome faucets, and brass-framed mirrors to create a layered, evolved aesthetic. A large-scale, four-inch hexagon tile flower motif on the floor provided a fresh yet nostalgic feel. A key design element was the sixty-inch-tall blue beadboard wainscoting, adding both height and texture to the space. The shower area was also expanded by removing a glass door, and its walls and ceiling were covered with handmade dusty blue subway tiles, designed to seamlessly integrate with the bathroom's blue theme. For the laundry room, an unused bedroom and an extra hall closet were combined to create a dedicated and spacious area. The new layout features a space-saving laundry tower, built-in cabinets with folding space, and a small work sink. The couple chose a navy and white striped shirt motif wallpaper, which Victoria found appealing and appropriate for the room's function. A large checkerboard tile floor, laid diagonally, was selected to visually expand the space and complement the wallpaper and navy high-gloss paint on the millwork. A vintage sink, reminiscent of Victoria's childhood, was installed, accompanied by a print from artist Elizabeth Mayville. The article highlights the detailed choices and personal touches that defined each room's renovation, resulting in spaces that are both functional and deeply personal to the homeowners. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #BedroomMakeover #BathroomRemodel #LaundryRoom #DecoratingIdeas #CountryLiving #HouseTour

Ashley and Max, newlyweds, recently transformed their 1,068-square-foot 1920s bungalow in Madison, Wisconsin, into a cozy and personalized home. The couple moved from Boston, where homeownership was financially challenging, to Madison for Max's PhD studies at UW Madison. Inspired by Ashley's father, a civil engineer with a construction background, they sought an older home with character that they could renovate themselves. They purchased the bungalow, which, despite being livable, was in need of significant updates. The kitchen, in particular, was outdated and poorly designed, with an illogical layout that included the refrigerator obstructing a bedroom doorway. The outdoor space was also overgrown, and the interior walls featured bright orange and yellow paint. Their renovation journey began with gutting and revamping the kitchen. Max personally laid the new tile, while Ashley's father and uncle assisted with painting and assembling ready-to-assemble cabinets. This collaborative family effort resulted in the kitchen becoming one of their favorite rooms. Beyond the kitchen, they meticulously repainted all interior walls and the exterior siding and trim. Ashley also worked with a local nursery to select native plants for the yard and uncovered a hidden patio and fire pit, which they later used as the venue for their wedding in July 2022. This personal connection imbued the home with significant sentimental value, symbolizing their shared commitment and teamwork. The couple's personal interests are visibly integrated into the home's aesthetic. Ashley, with a background in art and poetry, and Max, a PhD student in U.S. history and education policy, appreciate older items, which aligns with the bungalow's 1920s architecture. Original features like scalloped arches, a large multi-panel dining room window, and 1920s bathroom tile were preserved and highlighted during the renovation. Ashley curated a gallery wall from her extensive collection of personal artwork, travel photographs, old maps, and souvenirs, creating a deeply personal and meaningful display. Their furniture selections reflect an eclectic approach, combining sentimental family heirlooms, such as a leather chair from Ashley's grandmother, with self-built pieces like a bookcase/TV stand, and budget-friendly finds from IKEA and Facebook Marketplace. This mix of textures, colors, and styles, featuring pops of orange and green against neutral tones, contributes to the home's warm and personal ambiance, with each item holding a unique story. The dining room, open to the living space, stands out as Ashley's favorite area. She envisioned it as a versatile space for work, reading, art, hosting, and games, appreciating the abundant natural light from the large window and the conversational appeal of the gallery wall. A bright yellow front door further adds to the home's charm. Their latest acquisition was an Art Deco mirror, a $20 Facebook Marketplace find, placed above an IKEA bar cart, highlighting their knack for discovering unique pieces affordably. Their advice for creating a beloved home centers on choosing items that bring joy, rather than strictly adhering to matching aesthetics, and experimenting with various colors, materials, textures, and furniture styles to achieve a cohesive and personal space. #HomeRenovation #Bungalow #DIYHome #EclecticDecor #HistoricArchitecture #CoupleGoals #PersonalizedHome #MadisonWisconsin #HouseTour

Remi Ishizuka and Nate Pontious, wellness influencers and founders of HomeBodies, transitioned from a busy Los Angeles life to a sprawling ranch outside Austin, Texas, to better accommodate their passion for raising animals. Despite the property's three-year-old 3,515-square-foot stone house, they sought to infuse it with their personal style. They enlisted interior designer Amanda Gunawan of OWIU Design to soften the home's rustic elements and enhance its natural light, especially in the kitchen, a key space for Ishizuka's food content creation and entertaining. The design philosophy centered on preserving the existing structure and craftsmanship while introducing modern, serene elements. The renovation began with extensive landscaping, using goats to clear brush and animals like cows, donkeys, pigs, horses, and chickens to regenerate the land, improving soil quality. The interior design focused on creating a harmonious blend of rustic and zen aesthetics. In the kitchen, a notable innovation is the island, which integrates parts of a boulder to create a unique, solid-rock appearance while incorporating a dining table. This intricate design required careful engineering and two weeks of sculpting to achieve. An additional window was installed to maximize natural light, and the countertops were kept minimal with hidden appliances and a clever corner cabinet design for cooking sauces. The existing vent hood was also customized with laser-cut buttons to match the new steel cladding. A dedicated coffee bar, designed for Nate Pontious, was crafted from hot-rolled steel, featuring a shelf sourced from a stone yard's reject pile, showcasing a blend of industrial and reclaimed elements. To add storage and delineate space, wood built-ins were introduced to separate the living room from the entryway, doubling as bookshelves for Nate's extensive collection and storage for guest dinnerware. The living room underwent significant softening, with the existing fireplace molded with Venetian plaster and a curved, light-colored stone bench installed to neutralize the yellow tones of the original stone pillars. Comfort was a priority, leading to the selection of a plush sofa. A purely aesthetic decision involved cutting a round hole in the TV room wall, which lightened the visual weight of a rugged steel staircase and allowed natural light to cascade through. The slats beneath the marble shelf in this area were designed to match the pantry door, ensuring visual cohesion. The desk area functions as a workspace and a cozy spot for evening relaxation. The master bedroom was transformed into a minimalist sanctuary, emphasizing calm and sleep. The original stone wall and fireplace were removed, replaced by a smooth surface and an LED light behind the bed, offering adjustable lighting for different needs, including those of a newborn. The overall renovation successfully transformed the ranch house into a unique space that balances its rustic Texas setting with the tranquil and modern sensibilities of its wellness-focused owners. #HomeTour #RanchHouse #InteriorDesign #RusticZen #KitchenDesign #WellnessHome #SustainableLiving #TexasHome #Renovation