Do You Like This Home’s Eclectic Brooklyn Style?

Interior designer Alison Jennison has curated a personalized and inviting living space within her Greenpoint townhouse, characterized by a harmonious fusion of contemporary design elements and traditional architectural features. The home's aesthetic balances a modern color palette, predominantly featuring slate blues and grays, with the warmth of natural materials such as exposed wood beams and red brick walls. This intentional contrast creates a dynamic yet comfortable atmosphere throughout the residence. The living room serves as a central example of this design philosophy. A white couch complements the wall color, while gray accents in the form of an ottoman, pillows, and lamps subtly echo the darker tones present in the painted entryway. A key historical element, the original stone fireplace surround, underwent a meticulous restoration process, requiring the removal of six layers of paint to reveal its inherent beauty, as detailed by Jennison in an interview with Lonny. The room is further enhanced by a vintage Afghan kilim rug, adding a touch of global character, and a Roost Lars Rattan Chair, whose curvilinear form bridges contemporary style with an emphasis on comfort. The kitchen embodies a country modern aesthetic, featuring dark cabinetry, brass hardware, a classic farmhouse sink, and wooden chairs. The cabinetry itself is a clever combination of IKEA bases with custom doors from Semihandmade, providing a custom look at a more accessible price point. The cabinets are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Black Knight, contributing to the sophisticated yet rustic ambiance. This choice demonstrates a practical approach to achieving high-end design without solely relying on bespoke elements. Moving to the upper level, the child's nursery introduces vibrant pops of fuchsia and green, creating a playful and stimulating environment. The nursery also features unique decorative items, including a large vintage Gladys the Goose light figurine positioned beside the fireplace. Artistic expression is evident in this space with artwork by Faile displayed above the fireplace and a dreamcatcher crafted by Spoke Woven, adding both visual interest and personal touches. The serene master bedroom distinguishes itself with a feature wall adorned with Strata Study wallpaper by Zak+Fox and Apparatus Studio. The strategic placement and pattern of this wallpaper create a visual anchor, effectively defining the space around the bed. Overall, Jennison's Greenpoint townhouse exemplifies a thoughtful design approach that integrates fashionable trends, such as bold wallpapers, exposed architectural elements, and a muted color scheme, with a curated collection of personal and character-filled objects. The result is a living environment that is both aesthetically current and uniquely reflective of the homeowner's style, avoiding a generic feel and instead fostering a truly welcoming and distinct space. #GreenpointTownhouse #InteriorDesign #ModernTraditionalBlend #HomeRenovation #BrooklynDesign #AlisonJennison #ColorPalette #VintageElements

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

Architect Philippe Baumann has transformed a former parking garage in Gowanus, Brooklyn, into a three-bedroom modernist home, elevating utilitarian materials into an elegant contemporary design. The project, featured in Dwell, showcases an innovative approach to urban living by utilizing the entire lot of the original structure. Baumann served as the contractor for the majority of the two-year renovation, which began with preserving the garage's foundational elements. The interior spaces feature high ceilings and a central courtyard, which is framed by open glass walls connecting the living room and a den. The renovation was a multi-stage process; after the initial two years of interior and structural work, Baumann and his family moved into the unfinished home in 2011. An additional two years were dedicated to completing the exterior and other intricate details. This later phase involved installing a distinctive cedar and steel-mesh facade, meticulously placing cement pavers in the courtyard, and establishing a roof garden planted with native flora and vegetables. The home's design aesthetic is characterized by a deliberate use of steel and cement, which serve as primary interior textures. These materials contribute to a cool, minimalist atmosphere, yet are balanced by carefully integrated elements designed to add warmth. For instance, the floors throughout the home are equipped with radiant heating, a feature that extends even to the sidewalk outside, ensuring a snow-free pathway. Wood accents are strategically placed to soften the industrial feel, injecting a sense of comfort into the predominantly gray palette. Baumann's personal touch is evident in various custom-designed elements, such as the plywood bed frame in the master bedroom. The design emphasizes functionality and an understated elegance, demonstrating how common and often overlooked materials can be reimagined for sophisticated residential architecture. The home's transforming bathroom is another notable feature that highlights the architect's creative problem-solving and innovative use of space, further elaborated in the Dwell article. This project stands as an example of adaptive reuse and modern design in a dense urban environment, showcasing how an architect can integrate contemporary living with sustainable practices, like a roof garden, while maintaining an aesthetic that is both avant-garde and livable. The transformation of a former industrial space into a habitable and visually appealing home reflects a growing trend in urban redevelopment, where existing structures are re-purposed to meet current housing needs while pushing the boundaries of architectural design. #Gowanus #ModernistDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #PhilippeBaumann #RoofGarden #UrbanLiving #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign #BrooklynHome

This article details the interior design of poet Heather Gluck's 3,000-square-foot SoHo apartment in New York City, a project undertaken by Brittany Marom Interior Design. The design philosophy behind the home is described as a 'high-low mix,' combining affordable furniture with unique investment pieces to create an elegant yet eclectic bohemian style. Brittany Marom, drawing from her Israeli roots and New York upbringing, aimed to create a space that would inspire Gluck's artistic spirit. The design emphasizes layers, soft curves, and vibrant color combinations. The open-plan living and dining areas showcase jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue in the sofas, complemented by bold lipstick red and soft pinks in the dining area. Throw pillows in amethyst purple, gold, and floral prints from House of Hackney add vibrancy, while natural wood elements in the coffee and dining tables provide balance. A whimsical touch is added with pale pink sheer curtains that filter light and offer views of the NYC skyline. Seating arrangements are abundant to accommodate frequent entertaining, with each piece selected for both comfort and aesthetic appeal. The article highlights that affordability was a key consideration, with furniture sourced from various retailers including ModShop for sofas, Sixpenny for coffee tables, and Soho Home for floor lamps. The dining room, featuring a 10-seater table, is designed for both large and small gatherings. The Athena Calderone for Crate & Barrel dining chairs were reupholstered in a vibrant mix of red, pink, and autumn brown, and a jewel-toned chandelier from Galerie Glustin ties the space together with a cohesive flair. The kitchen fully embraces a deep green shade, Benjamin Moore's 'Martha's Vineyard,' creating a crisp and contemporary look. It features green quartzite, custom cabinetry, and an Ilve stove, warmed by touches of wood. The bathroom, described as a 'dainty jewel box,' uses soft pink and white to create a calming atmosphere. A nature-inspired wallpaper with cranes and foliage adds an unexpected touch, while white Thassos subway tiles provide a practical and visually grounding element. The bedroom, a sanctuary drenched in calming pink, showcases the 'high-low' aesthetic most prominently. It combines a vintage Murano glass chandelier and Soho Home bedside tables with more accessible table lamps from West Elm. An emerald green velvet headboard provides a focal point against the soft pink monochrome scheme, and oxblood red bedside lamps add warmth. Heather Gluck expresses that the meticulous attention to detail in the home reflects her own sensitive and obsessive approach to her poetry, ensuring every item serves a purpose and contributes to the overall coherence of the space. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #EclecticStyle #BohemianDesign #NewYorkHome #LuxuryLiving #AffordableDecor #ColorPalette #SpacePlanning

Interior stylist Olga Naiman approached the design of her Brooklyn new-build condo with a philosophy centered on creating distinct narratives for each room, avoiding a singular, uniform theme throughout the entire space. Her approach emphasizes wondrous and surprising juxtapositions, blending diverse shapes, textures, and colors that, while seemingly disparate, coalesce into a harmonious and unique aesthetic. Naiman's design strategy for her own home mirrors her professional work in styling and event design, where storytelling and recurring themes guide the creative process. For her living room, Naiman intentionally combined unconventional elements, such as an Artemide Tizio table lamp placed on stacked cinder blocks alongside a corduroy-upholstered Milo Baughman sofa. This eclectic mix contributes to a sense of the surreal and the sacred, forming a visual dialogue that unfolds as one navigates the apartment. The choice of a Matisse-inspired fabric for window treatments served as the initial design inspiration for the room, setting a vibrant and artistic tone. A cowhide rug was selected for its practicality and resilience, particularly its ability to withstand spills and heavy use, making it suitable for a home with children. A significant alteration made to the living room was the addition of a wall to create a second bedroom, necessitated by the birth of Naiman’s twins. To counteract the potential reduction in perceived space, this new wall was entirely mirrored, effectively creating an illusion of greater depth and expansiveness within the room. This clever design solution maintains an open feel despite the architectural modification. In the kitchen, Naiman implemented creative and cost-effective solutions to personalize the space without a full renovation. She silver leafed the existing cabinets, adding a touch of elegance and shine. Furthermore, she enlisted a scenic painter to apply a distinctive pattern to both the cabinet doors and the underside of the counters, transforming standard cabinetry into custom-designed features. White-painted pegboard was incorporated into the kitchen, serving a dual purpose: it adds another layer of pattern and texture to the aesthetic, while also providing practical storage for hanging pots and pans on the opposite wall. Naiman’s design choices reflect a keen ability to infuse personality, functionality, and artistic flair into a new-build environment, demonstrating that thoughtful interior styling can transform a standard space into a unique and inviting home. #InteriorDesign #HomeStyling #BrooklynApartment #EclecticDecor #OlgaNaiman #NewBuildDecor #CreativeSolutions #PersonalizedHome #SurrealAesthetics

This article details the transformation of a newly constructed Brooklyn townhouse into a warm, personalized, and comfortable family home with a mid-century modern aesthetic. The homeowners, who are lovers of the outdoors, sought to create an urban oasis that felt like an escape from the city, particularly benefiting from the property's quiet, tree-lined street and enclosed backyard. Interior designer Lucy Harris led the project, focusing on seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, incorporating super durable pieces suitable for a young child, and maintaining a light and bright color scheme. The entryway, designed to function as both an entrance and a mudroom, immediately sets an eclectic and welcoming tone with custom millwork for storage and a colorful tiled floor from Heath Ceramics, featuring bright blues and golds. Accessories such as a natural-feeling leather mail/key holder from Lostine and a simple half-moon mirror from Bower contribute to the unique character. In the kitchen, which was recently installed in the new-build, minor but impactful changes were made to integrate it into the home's overall aesthetic. Rattan counter stools from Stahl and Band introduced natural materials, while green pendants from In Common With tied in with the dining area's color scheme. The dining nook is highlighted as one of the most dramatic alterations, featuring custom banquette seating upholstered in a deep green wool boucle fabric from Tibor, complementing the leafy street view. A brass fixture from Apparatus adds texture, and a custom-sized solid wood table from Yucca Stuff, along with vintage-inspired Tre 3 chairs by Angelo Mangiarotti, complete the inviting space. The living room was conceived as a casual, peaceful, and fresh area, utilizing a serene palette with vibrant earthy accents. It showcases a colorful area rug by Christopher Farr, an original Bauhaus design, and a soft sofa from Poiat, contrasting with an organic-shaped coffee table in the style of Paul Frankl. An adjacent reading area in the living room features a leather Ojai chair from Lawson Fenning, reflecting the mid-century modern influence throughout the house. A Miniforms Soda glass side table adds material contrast, and custom millwork displays the homeowner’s vintage objects, infusing personality into the new construction. The connection between indoor and outdoor living is emphasized through large houseplants and green color palettes inside, and an inviting balcony dining space leading to a landscaped backyard, designed by Michael Cafiero. The outdoor area includes Fermob Luxembourg chairs and a customized Croft House dining table, suitable for the terrace. The family room introduces a different palette with deep blues and rich rusty oranges, creating an inviting atmosphere with mixed patterns. A custom rug collaboration between Lucy Harris and Carini, a wool and leather ottoman, and a comfortable Albarese sofa by DePadova define the space. A home gym adjacent to an outdoor terrace benefits from a leafy view. The primary bedroom combines pastel colors with vibrant accents for a serene yet interesting backdrop, featuring a walnut nightstand by Hedge House, a scalloped sconce by Nickey Kehoe, and a colorful quilt by Thompson Street Studio. Subtle patterned wallpaper by Rebecca Atwood and Caroline Z Hurley drapes add texture and quirkiness. For the nursery, a playful desert theme was chosen, reflecting the owners' love for hiking. Geometric patterns, a neutral cactus wallpaper, and terracotta accents, including a Kartell Componibili, create a vibrant yet sophisticated space. The guest bedroom on the fourth floor extends the natural beige, orange, and brown palette, with a second walnut nightstand from Hedge House and a rug from Nordic Knots, complemented by green and blue accents in the Room & Board bed and Rebecca Atwood drapery. This comprehensive redesign transforms the builder's spec townhouse into a soulful city oasis with distinctive character and style. #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #BrooklynTownhouse #HomeRenovation #FamilyHome #OutdoorLiving #CustomDesign #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign

Alexandra Barker, principal of Barker Associates Architecture Office (BAAO), spearheaded the transformation of an Italianate-style brownstone, originally built in 1868, located on a serene, tree-lined street in Brooklyn's Boerum Hill neighborhood. The homeowners, a couple with a young son, sought to create a colorful yet zen family home, envisioning a design characterized by moody interiors. The project, spanning 278 square meters across four levels, presented an opportunity to implement a comprehensive design scheme, including art and objects. The renovation faced challenges, notably a two-year timeline that commenced in the fall of 2020, coinciding with the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. This period was marked by significant delays in overseas shipments and material availability, necessitating compromises throughout the design process. Despite these obstacles, Barker and the homeowners demonstrated dedication, making multiple trips to stone yards to select appropriate materials for the main living areas, ultimately achieving a successful outcome. A central feature of the brownstone is the kitchen, which serves as a visual counterpoint to the richer tones found elsewhere. It incorporates a deep fluted plaster arch with a bar area illuminated by vintage French smoked glass sconces. Custom cabinets crafted from Calacatta Vagli Viola marble complement an island painted in Farrow & Ball’s Jitney, a relaxed and earthy hue. The dining corner features a curved pantry cabinet and a pale oak dining table from Maiden Home, surrounded by Giraffe chairs designed by Juliana Lima Vasconcellos. A trio of hand-blown glass forms by Bomma creates a focal point above the dining area. For the media room, situated on the garden level, Barker selected Calacatta Monet marble, paired with walls painted in a deep aubergine. This space is furnished for comfort with a sectional sofa and a barrel chair upholstered in chartreuse velvet. To facilitate transitions between the front and back of the house, textured materials like plaster and white oak tambour were used. The color palette throughout the home was inspired by the natural variations in stone, incorporating soft curves to echo existing architectural elements such as the stair and arched front door, and to soften the typical rectangularity of brownstone spaces. Each room in the house possesses a distinct character. The entry, for instance, is enveloped in Farrow & Ball’s Green Smoke, featuring a green and pink checkerboard floor. The light-filled parlor, acting as a pause point within the moody interior scheme, showcases a gold-painted relief by Andrew Zimmerman and Cloud Support by Mike Hansel above the original marble mantel. A Julep sofa and Galatea armchair define the seating area, accompanied by two marble tables and a curvy rug from Hatsu, based in Mumbai. The predominant color scheme throughout the house consists of various greens, purples, and mushroom tones, chosen to harmonize with the selected stone materials. The second floor houses the primary suite, characterized by soft lavender plastered walls and stained oak elements. An arched closet leads to the primary bathroom, which combines lavender walls with green onyx and Rosa Aurora Macchia Vecchia shower elements, creating a serene environment for the freestanding tub with a garden view. The top floor includes a rear yard and three additional bedrooms, with a curving stairwell culminating in a sculpted, skylit hall. This design provides ample space for the family and their guests, successfully realizing Barker’s objective of creating a cool and calm space with intentional moody accents. #BrooklynBrownstone #MoodyInteriors #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryHomes #MaterialSelection #FamilyHome #ColourfulInteriors

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

Anne Keenan and Alexis Seeley, a couple living in a 3,000-square-foot Brooklyn townhouse with their 5-year-old son, Leon, and two dogs, decided to hire an interior designer after nearly a decade in their home. The 1899 property had undergone a gut renovation in 2009, led by architect Fred Tang, focusing on structural and infrastructural improvements. While the major renovation addressed issues like mechanicals, a bay window, and plasterwork, the interiors were initially handled by the couple themselves. As their family grew, they found their individual furniture pieces didn't create a cohesive and functional family space. Seeking professional help to optimize their living area, particularly the main-floor living space where the sofa, TV, and dining table coexisted awkwardly, they reached out to Tang, who recommended Barbara Reyes, the new director of interior design for his firm. The established relationship with Tang's team, who were already familiar with the house's structure, was a key factor in their decision. The project commenced just as the pandemic began, leading to unconventional collaboration methods like masked stoop drop-offs for samples and Zoom meetings. A pivotal design decision involved relocating the dining table from a bay window nook to the center of the main floor, paired with a custom-built banquette. This change, initially mocked up by Seeley using existing furniture, significantly improved the space's flow and functionality for both everyday meals and entertaining. Reyes focused on practical solutions for a family-friendly home, incorporating performance fabrics for upholstery and replacing fragile glass tabletops with durable, mirrored plexiglass. Addressing the couple's differing aesthetic preferences—Seeley's love for neon colors and Pop Art versus Keenan's desire for traditional elegance—Reyes successfully blended these styles, introducing a sense of playfulness. The design incorporated unique color pairings, with the couple often choosing unexpected, vibrant options. A recurring blue and pink palette was used throughout the house, with varying shades and saturations, balanced by rich contrasting colors like bold blue in Leon's room and a black dining table. Reyes also integrated Keenan's long-standing collection of miniature food figurines into the living room, displaying them as quirky curios. For Leon's bedroom, the design team fulfilled his request for a "rainbow" room with a Flat Vernacular wall mural featuring a gradient of bright colors, complemented by timeless Vitsoe shelving. A strong emphasis was placed on sustainability and budget, with the couple requesting Reyes to reuse as many existing furnishings as possible. This led to reupholstering comfortable chairs instead of replacing them and repurposing old cabinetry in the couple's bedroom with a modern raspberry hue and gold-flecked wallpaper. The final design created a welcoming, flexible, and durable home that perfectly suits the family's dynamic lifestyle. #BrooklynHome #FamilyLiving #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #HomeRenovation #PerformanceFabrics #SustainableDesign #CustomFurniture #KidsRoomDesign

This article highlights the personal residence of interior designer Carin Zwiebel, showcasing her modern eclectic design aesthetic. Zwiebel, a Rhode Island School of Design graduate and owner of a design firm for over ten years, drew inspiration from various international and domestic architectural styles, including those found in Miami, Arizona, and Indonesia, to create her ideal living space. The design prioritizes clean lines and a simple style, complemented by a rich integration of textures and warmth to ensure livability and comfort. The home, located in Sunset Park and facing the water, was conceived by Zwiebel and her husband as a "forever home" after becoming empty nesters. Their vision was to blend modern design principles with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The residence spans 4,200 square feet, featuring four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, a three-car garage, and two stories connected by an elevator. A key design element is the abundant natural light, facilitated by numerous windows strategically placed throughout the house, which contributes to the home's open and airy feel. Zwiebel emphasizes the importance of a comfortable, uncluttered living environment where residents feel relaxed. She designed the home with functional outdoor living spaces and entertaining in mind, incorporating sliding doors that seamlessly merge the indoor and outdoor areas. Her design philosophy is evident in her material choices, which include wood, porcelain, and stone, combined with a neutral color palette. Pops of color are introduced through art, accessories, and pillows, adding vibrant touches to the otherwise serene backdrop. Personal touches and custom features abound in the home. Zwiebel designed the entertainment center herself, incorporating fluted walnut wood, brass inlay on the shelves, and a leathered stone plinth, making it a focal point of the room. Her passion for lighting fixtures is highlighted, with selections from Moooi and Flos described as akin to "accessorizing with jewelry." The kitchen, created by Allikristé, maintains a clean and minimal aesthetic, utilizing leathered marble quartzite for the island and backsplash. Practical elements include a hidden television in upper cabinets and a pull-out coffee bar area, designed for both daily use and entertaining. Zwiebel is also a passionate art collector, with her home featuring significant pieces such as artwork by Cuban artist Mabel Poblet, a sculpture by Israeli artist Isaac Kahn, and a large metal plane and heart artwork by Cuban artist Esterio Segura. The bathrooms were custom-designed by Environ Studios, further showcasing the bespoke nature of the home. The exterior features an outdoor sanctuary with a pool by Riviera Pools, surrounded by tropical palms and lush greenery, reinforcing the home’s suitability for entertaining and relaxation. Zwiebel's overall approach underscores the belief that "art that you love is always timeless," contributing to a home that is both modern and personally meaningful. #HomeDesign #ModernEclectic #CarinZwiebel #CZDesigns #InteriorDesign #TampaHomeDesign #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #ArtCollection

Interior designer Sara Gilbane's summer retreat in Locust Valley, Long Island, is characterized by a "family party house" atmosphere, reflecting her breezy, classic bohemian aesthetic. The home, located an hour's drive from her Manhattan base, prioritizes relaxation and fun, featuring a large backyard with a homemade slip-and-slide. Gilbane, an alumna of Rhode Island School of Design and protégé of Celerie Kemble, established her own firm in 2008 and launched a line of furniture, fabric, and wallpaper in 2014. The design incorporates family heirlooms and personal touches throughout, such as her grandmother’s china, inherited Turkish and Oriental rugs, and an American flag belonging to her grandfather, which is draped over the stairs. The sunroom serves as a primary lounging area, filled with rattan pieces. In the living room, a white IKEA sofa is made comfortable and family-friendly with custom throw pillows and washable slipcovers, illustrating Gilbane's pragmatic approach to design in a house frequented by children and guests. Playful elements like a large clay leopard add a whimsical touch, preventing the space from feeling overly formal. Gilbane describes her aesthetic as "very high-low," blending vintage furniture with vibrant, modern updates. For instance, a vintage sofa is re-upholstered in a bright floral pattern and layered with cheerful throw pillows. The color scheme, featuring bright pastels and bold primaries, is inspired by the natural surroundings, particularly the stunning sunset views over the Sound. The living room walls are painted a light pink, chosen for its changing appearance from nearly white during the day to brighter at night, reflecting the sunset's hues. Sharing the property is a refurbished squash court, now a cottage owned by Gilbane's best friend, designed to be bright and happy with saturated colors. This cottage features white walls as a backdrop, complemented by tailored furniture in blues, greens, and zebra prints, fostering a fun and inviting atmosphere. The children's rooms also reflect this playful use of color; Gilbane’s son James’s room, for example, heavily features blue—a favorite color for both him and his mother—with red accents to create a lively and "punchy" feel, seen in items like an antique quilt and a bobble bed. Gilbane offers five key ideas for incorporating color into a home's design: drawing inspiration from natural surroundings, using large and abstract art for significant impact, avoiding gender stereotypes with colors like pink, utilizing black as a neutral for elements such as picture frames and furniture bases, and strategically investing in high-quality colored pieces while opting for inexpensive items in white or lighter shades to manage budget. This approach culminates in a home that is both aesthetically rich and functionally resilient for a vibrant family life. #LongIsland #VacationHome #PatternMixing #BohemianStyle #SaraGilbane #InteriorDesign #FamilyFriendly #HighLowDesign #ColorPalette

The new owners of a wood-frame rowhouse, initially covered in vinyl siding, approached architect Alexandra Barker with a 1940s New York City tax photo, aiming to restore the house's historical appearance while integrating their preference for modern design, ample light, and vibrant colors. Barker, from Barker Freeman Design Office, assured them that both traditional elements and contemporary details could be successfully combined. The extensive renovation involved replacing the vinyl siding with cedar, and installing larger windows on the parlor and basement levels to enhance natural light, a departure from the historical two-window configuration but essential for the owners' vision. Inside, the house lacked any original details worth preserving, except for a skylight featuring Crayola-colored glass panels. This skylight served as a central inspiration for incorporating bright, clear colors throughout the interior, manifested through accent walls, ceramic tiles, and furnishings. While some original interior framing was retained, all walls were rebuilt with Sheetrock, allowing for subtle adjustments to room proportions. The clients desired to keep some walls in their original layout, particularly the one separating the front hall from the main living space on the parlor floor. New pocket doors were strategically installed here and elsewhere to offer flexibility in closing off spaces, featuring simple French doors with large glass lights and a minimalist design. The rear wall of the parlor floor was replaced with commercial storefront glazing, finished in anodized aluminum, to further open up the space. The exterior features a traditional cornice, window moldings, and a salvaged double front door, maintaining a connection to the circa-1940 aesthetic. The white cedar clapboard siding, sealed to preserve its natural hue, represents a modern approach to the facade. The front entry hall incorporates gray-blue painted stair risers, a newel post and balusters in a historic style, while the original staircase was preserved. The existing flooring underwent sanding, bleaching, and pickling. The central part of the parlor floor functions as a family/media room, marked by a blue sofa. The fireplace area features reclaimed brick veneer on the chimney breast and a canister fuel source hearth cabinet. Custom consoles and walnut shelves were crafted by CK Construction, with furnishings selected by the homeowner with Barker's guidance. The kitchen on the parlor floor utilizes IKEA cabinet boxes with custom Semihandmade fronts in walnut and white. Ann Sacks Lucien glass tile serves as the backsplash, and Basalto floor tile from Complete Tile was installed. The back wall employs a commercial storefront system by Arcadia Inc. A small powder room on the parlor floor is distinguished by red Ann Sacks tile, a Duravit sink, and a custom walnut countertop. The top floor accommodates a master bedroom with a full-height storage wall, a master bathroom, two children's rooms, and a small children's bath with green Ann Sacks tile. The basement level features a painted and waterproofed textured stone foundation wall, a new wood floor that extends to form the side of the staircase with hidden storage, and a layout that positions mechanicals centrally to maximize natural light in front and rear rooms. A home office and a guest room are also located in the basement. The rear facade presents a more contemporary look with tongue-and-groove white cedar planks and anodized aluminum windows and doors. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #EastWilliamsburg #Rowhouse #ModernTraditionalMix #AlexandraBarker #ArchitecturalDesign #BrooklynHomes

This article offers a glimpse into the New York City home of actors Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds, highlighting its unique blend of rustic charm and urban sophistication. Despite its prime Tribeca location, the residence evokes the feeling of a secluded cabin, characterized by weathered floors, a vast open layout, and distinctive architectural details. The couple, known for their privacy, occasionally share snippets of their homes on social media, revealing a design aesthetic that prioritizes personal touches and a moody-chic ambiance. Key features of their NYC abode include intricate rugs, a marble bathtub, and, most notably, prominent wood beams spanning tall ceilings. These elements contribute to the home's rustic character, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In a rare social media post from 2023, Lively provided a candid view of her luxurious bedroom, showcasing an unmade bed that added a touch of relatability to the otherwise opulent setting. For those inspired by Lively and Reynolds' home design, the article provides actionable advice on how to recreate a similar rustic aesthetic. It acknowledges the challenge and expense of sourcing and installing authentic reclaimed wood beams but offers a more accessible alternative: faux beams, such as those available from Architectural Depot. Additionally, the article suggests replicating the couple's wooden wall paneling, which envelops the room in rustic charm. Options for achieving this look range from easy-to-mount reclaimed wood wall paneling from Wayfair to more budget-friendly and renter-friendly solutions like wood-patterned peel-and-stick wallpaper available on Amazon. The overall design philosophy of Lively and Reynolds' NYC home appears to be a deliberate effort to create a sanctuary that feels detached from the urban hustle while remaining firmly within the city. This blend of remote cabin aesthetics with penthouse living is achieved through a careful selection of materials and design elements that prioritize natural textures, warmth, and a sense of history. The home serves as an example of how to infuse a personal and character-rich design into a metropolitan living space. #CelebrityHomes #NYCInteriorDesign #RusticChic #HomeDecorInspiration #BlakeLively #RyanReynolds #ArchitecturalDesign #DIYHomeDecor

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

Camille Kubie, after five years in her Brooklyn Heights apartment, sought to transform it into a permanent 'forever home' by combining it with the adjacent unit. She enlisted Shanti Crawford, principal of Indigo & Ochre Design, to achieve a space that reflected her style and felt distinctly enduring. Kubie admired the building's high ceilings, industrial windows, and proximity to the water, elements Crawford aimed to integrate into the redesign. The resulting 2,000-square-foot apartment, characterized by sophistication, femininity, and a touch of zen, became a curated contemporary oasis. Kubie prioritized proper room functionality and a sense of character, opting for a design that incorporated existing pieces rather than entirely new furnishings. Crawford, known for her expertise in vintage rugs and bold approach to furniture, focused on imbuing the new space with soul. Following the architectural modifications that merged the two apartments, Crawford's primary challenge was to establish a new, coherent layout. The design emphasized optimizing natural light flow where possible while also embracing the inherent coziness of darker, windowless areas. Each space was meticulously designed to serve its intended function. Major structural changes included expanding the living room, creating a separate den off the formal dining room, establishing a new master suite with a walk-in closet, and converting the previous master bedroom into a home office. The kitchen underwent a significant overhaul, incorporating a walk-in pantry, cladding countertops and backsplash in carrara marble, and resurfacing existing cabinets, resulting in a serene and light-filled cooking area. While integrating many of Kubie's existing items, such as kitchen stools, a vintage dining table, her bed, and art, most new furniture selections were made with the redesigned space in mind. Crawford often advises clients to invest in key, long-lasting elements like vintage or antique rugs, which serve as anchors for a room's design and character. The designer frequently begins her design process with rugs, using them to establish palettes and tones for the entire space. Initially hesitant about pink, Kubie was ultimately drawn to a rose-toned Oushak rug, which now injects vibrant energy into the living room, complementing its shapely furnishings. Crawford’s design philosophy also involved balancing shapes, creating tension between rectilinear and curvilinear forms. Given the apartment's strong architectural lines, such as windows and soffits, and its predominantly rectangular rooms, elements like blush pink bolsters, curved seating, and sculptural side tables were introduced to provide a harmonious contrast. Kubie particularly enjoys the sculptural yet comfortable white sofa in the living room, describing it as a 'giant cloud' and a prime vantage point for viewing the integrated living, kitchen, and dining areas. For wall decor, a dramatic wallpaper print by Jill Malek, inspired by city lights, was chosen for the dining room, offering a budget-friendly and memorable alternative to expensive art, and incorporating the home's blue, grey, and white palette. In the dining room, a fantastical light fixture crafted from vintage globes, sourced by Crawford from a flea market, adds grace and ease. Crawford emphasizes that statement lighting should be sculpturally appealing and cast flattering light, ideally on a dimmer. Adjacent to the dining room, a quiet parlor with deep jewel tones offers a retreat. Despite initial concerns about the dark colors in the small, windowless room, Kubie embraced its moody atmosphere, valuing it as an escape from the apartment's overall brightness. The master suite features earthy textiles and patterned accents against saturated walls, drawing inspiration from a watercolor landscape painted by Kubie’s grandmother, which served as the dwelling’s original muse, providing a personal and resonant design foundation. #BrooklynHeights #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ShantiCrawford #IndigoAndOchreDesign #VintageRugs #StatementLighting #ZenDesign #ApartmentRedesign

This article highlights the evolving and personal home decor journey of Daniel King and Meghan Lavery, the founders of Home Union, a popular vintage store in Brooklyn. Their apartment serves as a dynamic showcase for their constantly shifting collection of vintage finds and personal treasures, reflecting their business and their lifestyle. The couple's decorating adventure began when they moved in together and embarked on a trip to Maine to find secondhand furniture for their new rental. What started with a few Danish dining chairs quickly escalated into a passion for collecting, leading to a significant surplus of vintage pieces. This surplus was the unexpected catalyst for the creation of Home Union, initially an Instagram account for their finds, which subsequently expanded into a storage unit, a showroom, and ultimately, a successful retail store. Initially, their individual design preferences—Meghan's love for all-white spaces and romantic boho vibes, and Daniel's inclination towards dark wood and Danish furniture—presented a challenge in blending their styles. However, over time, their aesthetics merged into a distinct and bolder style characterized by space-age Italian modernism, 1980s influences, and a curated selection of Danish pieces. Their confidence in using color has grown, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of their Williamsburg home. Their apartment, located in a building with double-height ceilings, allowed for grand design statements despite its 1980s construction. The couple took on numerous DIY projects to personalize their rental, replacing undesirable original features such as doorknobs and a metal railing with more contemporary and minimalist elements like red plastic handles, canary yellow pulls, and a plywood balustrade adorned with hanging plants. They even undertook a rental-friendly kitchen renovation, painting cabinets, and installing a new countertop, sink, faucet, and tiled backsplash with landlord approval, showcasing their hands-on approach and long-term commitment to making the space feel like home. The living space is a carefully curated blend of items from their store and personal cherished possessions. Pieces like a Milo Baughman burl-wood credenza and a Terje Ekstrom spider-like chair rotate through their home, illustrating the fluid nature of their decor. A Paul Mayan floor lamp, which couldn't be sold due to a minor flaw, became a beloved fixture. The living room also features a limited-edition rug from a collaboration between Home Union and Swedish designer Katherine Plumb, highlighting their commitment to unique and meaningful pieces. The couple's dedication to finding the perfect decor extends to international searches, exemplified by their years-long quest for a pair of cherry red Gerd Lange sconces. After discovering one, they spent years searching eBay and messaging European sellers until they finally found a matching piece, demonstrating their perseverance in achieving their design vision. Daniel King, with his background in furniture-making, personally restores pieces for their store and also creates his own designs. The upstairs den, a multi-functional space, now features his built-in plywood chairs and a bookcase, transforming it into a cozy retreat. Their apartment is described as an ongoing project, constantly evolving with small tweaks such as painting the front door, upgrading the bathroom vanity, and tiling the balcony doorstep. The addition of new items like squiggly vases, futuristic lamps, or vintage Marcel Breuer rattan chairs continually refines their living space. Daniel and Meghan's home is a testament to their passion for vintage design and their collaborative journey in developing a unique and ever-changing aesthetic. #HomeUnion #VintageDecor #BrooklynApartment #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeRenovation #MidCenturyModern #RentalFriendlyDecor #DesignEvolution