Historic Buckhead Home: Modern Elegance Meets Classic Charm

The article details the design philosophy and features of Dana and Angelo Spinola's Buckhead home, which they purchased in 2012. Their primary goal was to create a living space that combined aesthetics with practicality, particularly considering they have four children. Dana Spinola, owner of fab'rik boutiques, aimed for a style that is both fashionable and functional, maintaining a comfortable yet minimalist ambiance where children can freely interact with the furniture. A significant renovation occurred in 2018 when the wall between the living room and the family room was removed. This alteration, executed by Pro Painting and Remodeling, transformed the ground floor into an open-concept layout, significantly improving the flow and making the space feel tripled in size. Recent efforts have focused on enhancing the home's warmth and coziness, evidenced by the addition of a seating nook in the living room, a circular kitchen table, and drapes separating the family room from the living room. The home is characterized by its Cape Cod architectural style and a modern farmhouse interior design. Key interior design elements include a black-and-white color palette and a prominent display of art. Many pieces, including paintings, are sourced from Dana’s father, Myott of Myott Studio, and his artistic community. Other notable art pieces include a dress art by Todd Murphy in the living room and a framed dress worn by Dana on the night she founded her business and met Angelo. Dana and Angelo Spinola reside in the home with their four sons—Hudson, Lincoln, Ryder, and Asher—and their two dogs, Cowboy and Vader. The house boasts five bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Interior design consultation was provided by Anne Williams, while landscaping was handled by Green Seasons Landscaping. A unique outdoor feature is a bocce court, which Dana installed as a gift for Angelo. Furniture and decor throughout the home are sourced from a variety of retailers, including BoBo Intriguing Objects, RH, Ballard Designs, Cost Plus World Market, Ikea, Joss & Main, and Stock & Trade Design Co. The integration of family-sourced art, practical design choices, and a blend of modern farmhouse aesthetics with a classic architectural style creates a unique and inviting family home. #BuckheadHome #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernFarmhouse #OpenConcept #FamilyLiving #HomeRenovation #ArtisticDecor #CapeCodStyle

This article details the renovation of a 1930s Mediterranean-style house in Buckhead, Atlanta, undertaken by a young couple. The homeowners were drawn to the house's classic architecture, curb appeal, and distinctive arched windows, a motif that extends throughout the interior. They enlisted architect Norman Askins and interior designer Susan Bozeman to modernize the space while preserving its historical integrity. Norman Askins, who collaborated frequently with Susan Bozeman, oversaw the architectural updates. He admired the original design by Georgia Tech–trained architect Flip Burge from 1930, noting its “good-looking exterior,” high ceilings, and abundant windows. Askins highlighted the home’s then-modern floor plan, with a central living room offering light from both sides, a feature that remains relevant in contemporary design. The renovation focused on upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms and reconfiguring bedrooms and a family room to better suit a modern family's needs. Susan Bozeman's interior design approach aimed to adapt the historic house for a young family while maintaining an elegant and refined aesthetic. The owners' appreciation for European antiques and art, particularly French pieces, influenced the design, which was crafted to evoke an Art Deco Parisian atmosphere. This was achieved through the use of rich color palettes, brass fixtures, and carefully selected antique furnishings. Window treatments were kept minimal or entirely omitted to emphasize the French doors, which serve as a prominent design element. Key design features and elements contributing to the Parisian aesthetic include a high-gloss black foyer with Schumacher tortoiseshell wallpaper on the ceiling, illuminated by a modern brass light fixture and adorned with framed intaglios and antique rugs. The dining room features an antique Spanish gilt screen from Mirabella Antiques, an Empire light fixture, and an 18th-century bench from Foxglove Antiques. The custom dining table was designed to accommodate large gatherings. The living room, designed for both formal and informal entertaining, includes linen sofas with Samuel & Sons trim, antique accents, and a 19th-century chinoiserie table from Parc Monceau. The sunporch was designed with an eclectic mix of contemporary and vintage elements, featuring a star chandelier from Circa Lighting and vintage cane chairs from Foxglove Antiques. The newly renovated kitchen, while modern, retains a period feel with windows above the sink for natural light, Zak + Fox cafe curtains, and a marble island with brass legs. Pantry doors were covered in grasscloth with nail heads for organic texture, and hand-rubbed brass pendants from Circa Lighting were installed. The owner's bath showcases a high-end European aesthetic with marble washstands from Waterworks, brass fittings, and basketweave tile. The family room features a rug from Mendel Tencer and a versatile wood table from Nicholson Gallery, with a chest detailed with nailheads adding leather texture. The owner’s suite includes an upholstered headboard from the Cameron Collection, faux-tortoiseshell lamps from Parc Monceau, and lampshades from Edgar-Reeves. Both Askins and Bozeman were successful in creating a cohesive design that honors the home's historic character while incorporating modern functionality and Parisian-inspired elegance. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the design duo's ability to blend old and new, highlighting their understanding of Atlanta's historic homes. #HistoricHomeRenovation #Buckhead #MediterraneanArchitecture #ParisianDesign #NormanAskins #SusanBozeman #InteriorDesign #HomeRemodel #Antiques #ArtDeco

This article details the transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in Philadelphia's Main Line suburbs into a modern family home with transitional design elements. The property, untouched for over a decade, was in a state of disrepair with failing windows and siding, an untreated cedar roof, a caving patio, and outdated interiors described as 'screaming late 90s'. The renovation was undertaken by PS & Daughters, led by founder Phoebe Schuh, who was drawn to the historical character of the house despite its challenges. The clients, a blended family with a wide age range of children, sought a home that honored its architecture while supporting a modern lifestyle. They also possessed a world-class art collection that needed to be integrated into the design. The primary objective was to create a transitional home, blending the best of old and new to achieve a relaxed elegance and comfort, without being overly precious, while incorporating sumptuous velvets, mixed patterns, and layered textures. The extensive remodel resulted in a seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom family residence equipped with contemporary amenities such as a pool, outdoor lounge, playroom, and games room. Throughout the house, custom-made modern pieces are seamlessly combined with vintage finds, ensuring a balance between historical nods and modern functionality. One of the favorite spaces for the designer was the master bathroom, reimagined as a luxurious wet room clad in Calcutta marble. The design incorporated a client's specific request for a window in the shower, leading to a massive shower area, a new freestanding tub, a floating marble slab bench, and intricate mosaics on the ceiling, all complemented by brass fixtures. For the children, a vibrant and functional playroom was designed. It features a jungle gym, an oversized jewel-toned mural depicting dreamy mountain tops, and a custom-built arched reading nook, catering to various age groups from teens to toddlers. The project encountered significant construction challenges, including failed stucco on the backside of the house. This was resolved by removing the stucco, properly sealing the home, and installing a new exterior elevation with bright white siding, a stone veneer foundation, a limestone patio, a glass railing, and a mahogany handrail. A unique, last-minute challenge involved rerouting a direct hot water line from the heater to the master suite shower to address a client's concern about water temperature, showcasing the team's commitment to client satisfaction. Ultimately, the farmhouse was transformed from a neglected historic property into a contemporary family haven, characterized by bold colors, statement artwork, and luxurious finishes, all while maintaining a respectful connection to its original architectural style. The project exemplifies transitional design, achieving a sophisticated yet comfortable aesthetic for modern family living. #TransitionalFarmhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HistoricHome #LuxuryInteriors #FamilyHome #ModernAmenities #CustomDesign

This article highlights an Atlanta home in the Buckhead neighborhood, designed by Lyndsy Woods, that masterfully blends traditional architectural elements with modern touches and antique furnishings. The home, a new construction with Georgian architectural influences, was designed to incorporate classical features on the interior while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere suitable for a family with two young children. Lyndsy Woods worked with the family from the building stage, allowing her to understand their daily life and tailor the home's design to their specific needs and how they would utilize each space. The design approach focused on creating a soft, neutral shell with muted wall colors like Benjamin Moore York Gray (tinted at 50% strength) and White Dove for trim. This neutral backdrop ensures that the layered fabrics and furnishings, including the family's collection of antique pieces, are highlighted rather than overwhelmed. Built-in elements are kept tone-on-tone to avoid distraction. Even in more formal areas such as the dining room and family room, the aim was to evoke warmth and welcome. A key aspect of Woods's design philosophy, as detailed in the article, is the successful integration of formal and informal items. She avoids the heavy, museum-like feel that can result from too many antiques by pairing them with cleaner, modern elements. This mixing of styles creates a collected and unique aesthetic, preventing the space from feeling overly structured or stuffy. An example cited is the use of modern print fabrics in the dining room alongside gilded antiques, with a light background to tie everything together. The designer prefers cooler wall tones to balance the warmer, often reddish undertones of antique woods, thus toning down golden hues and creating a fresher look. Her personal style leans towards clean lines but with soft, livable palettes and rich textures. Specific rooms are showcased, illustrating this blend: the living room features a custom light fixture by Solaria Lighting and a linen sofa from Lee Industries, chosen for its timeless silhouette and adaptability to new looks with different pillows. The classic white kitchen is equipped with Walker Zanger tiles, Visual Comfort lighting, and Ballard Designs barstools. A butler's pantry is adorned with antiqued-mirror walls and a small sink for convenience. The family room continues the theme with Benjamin Moore's York Gray walls, an Aidan Gray chandelier, and an antique table. The dining room boasts Schumacher fabric on window treatments and upholstered chairs, with a Hickory Chair table, and a touch of pink adds a modern accent to the antique setting. The master bedroom, designed to feel like an upscale hotel suite, is furnished with antiques and features walls painted in a tinted version of Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter. The master bathroom is elevated with luxurious Duralee fabric window treatments, soft green shades, an abstract painting, and custom his-and-her vanities. The powder room is enlivened with Farrow & Ball wallpaper. The article concludes by emphasizing the home's welcoming nature and its beauty as a family residence, crediting designer Lyndsy Woods for her award-winning work and Marc Mauldin for the photography. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #AntiqueModernMix #LuxuryHomes #AtlantaRealEstate #LyndsyWoodsDesign #HomeFeatures #BuckheadHomes

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

In 2008, architect Frank Neely's clients decided against renovating their 1940s-era Buckhead home, which they had occupied for over 15 years. However, three years later, the same couple approached him with a new request: to design a completely new, grand English Tudor house. This project aligned perfectly with Neely's expertise in historic design. Neely aimed for the new construction to blend seamlessly into the neighborhood, appearing as if it were a 1920s original rather than a contemporary creation. English Tudor architecture was prevalent during the initial development of many Atlanta neighborhoods, including Morningside, Druid Hills, and parts of Buckhead. To maintain authenticity, Neely incorporated handcrafted materials, techniques, and structural elements typical of the period. The three-year construction period, which coincided with an economic recession, allowed Neely access to a pool of skilled craftspeople. Every piece of molding in the house was custom-made using a unique knife, ensuring a consistent theme with varied profiles for each room. Neely produced a significant volume of hand drawings, dedicating ten pages solely to the limestone fireplaces and trims. The home features numerous bespoke details, such as rounded corners where foyer walls meet and at the ceiling, a gracefully bowed-out handrail on a stairwell landing, recessed cabinetry, and dozens of leaded-glass arched windows. Neely emphasized that customizing these elements did not inflate the budget since all windows were custom anyway. Instead of painting, Neely utilized ancient fuming and ebonizing methods for the paneling, molding, and cabinetry. Ebonizing dark oak involved soaking steel wool in vinegar to create iron oxide, which, when applied, reacted with the wood's natural tannins to turn it black. Fuming, a process discovered in Old English barns where oak was exposed to ammonia from horses, gave the wood a smoky brown color by exposing it to ammonia or its fumes. Neely also integrated ancient building techniques, making certain trims and supports appear functional even if they were primarily decorative in the modern context. For example, in the study, a heavy oak ceiling beam was strategically placed across the front bay window to create the illusion of supporting the massive two-story gable above. Neely highlights the contrast with modern "Sheetrock mansions," where exterior and interior designs often lack continuity. The exterior features include stucco sections made of pebbledash in the rear, where concrete is covered with stucco and then filled with hand-placed pebbles. The homeowners initially doubted the quality of the samples, but the artisan's work, which even involved the husband in applying some pebbles, won them over. The walls and steps are constructed from granite sourced from two different Georgia quarries. Even the bricks were handmade and carefully chosen for their color. This custom approach inadvertently made the house highly eco-friendly, as cabinetry was handcrafted from locally sourced maple and wood, and the structure utilized natural materials like handmade brick, slate, limestone, and granite. Interior design, executed by Brian Watford, introduces contemporary elements, such as a mosaic tile backsplash with mirrored accents in the butler's pantry and a zebra-patterned stair runner. Despite these modern touches, the homeowners sought to retain sentimental pieces in each room, like a dark cherry hutch in the family room that complements the oak coffered ceiling. Neely's overarching goal for the house was to evoke a sense of history, making it feel as though multiple generations had resided there, imbuing it with stories of the past. This article was originally published in the Spring 2015 issue of Atlanta Magazine’s HOME. #FrankNeely #Buckhead #EnglishTudor #HistoricDesign #CustomHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #HandcraftedMaterials #EcoFriendlyDesign

This blog post highlights a French Provincial home in Buckhead, Atlanta, which has been on the market since April and is currently priced at $2.59 million after a price reduction in October. The property is described as an "exquisitely designed" and "truly a work of art," offering a sense of being far removed from city life. The home is located off West Paces Ferry Road and features five bedrooms and six bathrooms, spanning nearly 5,800 square feet. It was built in 2002 but exudes a rustic-ritzy atmosphere. The residence has garnered attention, having been featured in Veranda magazine. Its exterior is characterized by meticulously maintained gardens and a manicured backyard, contributing to its Euro-style aesthetic. Inside, the home boasts an elegant foyer staircase with intricate ironwork throughout, adding to its luxurious appeal. One notable convenience mentioned is the inclusion of an elevator, which is highlighted as a feature that would be popular during social gatherings. Despite its impressive design and magazine features, the article acknowledges that certain stylistic choices, such as cherubs on bathroom tiles and wallpapered ceilings, might not appeal to everyone. The initial asking price was higher, but the property underwent a price-chop and a change in brokerage teams in October, leading to its current listing at $2.59 million. The property aims to attract buyers with substantial budgets who appreciate a sophisticated, European-influenced design and a tranquil living environment within the Buckhead area. #Buckhead #FrenchProvincial #LuxuryRealEstate #AtlantaHomes #InteriorDesign #HomeForSale #ArchitecturalStyle

This article details the design process and outcome of a new home in University Park, Denver, which successfully blends modern and traditional design elements to create a transitional style. The homeowners, relocating from Florida, had differing preferences: the husband desired a hip, modern aesthetic, while the wife favored classic, traditional design. Residential designer Stephen Hentschel of Mandil Inc. and interior designers Angela Coleman and Cassy Kicklighter Poole collaborated to achieve a harmonious balance. Hentschel began the architectural design by drawing inspiration from the Denver Square style, a choice that allowed for maximizing the footprint on a narrow city lot and ensured the home would blend seamlessly into the established neighborhood. He incorporated subtle classical details on the exterior, such as cast-stone window headers and a barrel-vaulted front porch, while hinting at modernity with contemporary windows and light fixtures. Inside, Hentschel deviated from traditional layouts by shifting the central staircase to one side, creating an open-concept floorplan that directs flow towards the kitchen, breakfast nook, family room, and outdoor living areas. The second level features a 21st-century master suite with a hidden walk-in closet and an exaggerated cove ceiling. A modern, glass-railed staircase connects the two floors, signifying a clear departure from purely traditional design. Coleman and Poole then further refined the interior, carefully integrating elements from both modern and traditional styles. To satisfy the wife's preference for softer, curvier lines and classic touches, they incorporated traditional millwork, including coffered, beamed, and coved ceilings, paneled walls in the master suite, and kitchen cabinetry with beveled doors and furniture-style bases. For the husband's modern preference, they added contemporary wood accents such as walnut-wrapped door jambs and walnut floors with a custom gray-black finish. The kitchen exemplifies this transitional approach, featuring a classic combination of white countertops, subway tile, and cabinetry with brass accents. A standout feature is the raised walnut bar top, which appears to float above the island. While the master bathroom exudes elegance with Statuario-marble floors and a walnut vanity wall, the powder rooms showcase a more modern aesthetic with floating vanities and sleek finishes. Poole's furnishing choices continued this balancing act. In the breakfast nook, a mid-century modern tulip table is paired with more traditional upholstered chairs and a bench. The living room features a tailored Chesterfield-style sofa contrasted with a sculptural modern chair upholstered in deep-teal mohair. For the master bedroom, where the husband favored boldness and the wife preferred soft romance, Poole designed a custom rug in a shimmery beige to complement the upholstered bed, alongside two masculine wingback chairs in deep indigo. Across the home, a quiet palette of creams, beiges, and golds is punctuated with pops of rich blues and grays, creating a cohesive yet varied aesthetic. The designers emphasize that this consistent color palette was crucial in unifying diverse textures and patterns, such as the six different fabric patterns and a bold artwork in the dining room. The success of the project is attributed to the homeowners' trust in the designers, allowing for creative freedom and a truly personalized style. #HomeDesign #TransitionalStyle #UniversityPark #DenverArchitecture #InteriorDesign #ModernTraditionalBlend #OpenConcept #CustomCabinetry #LuxuryHome

This Buckhead residence exemplifies Frank Lloyd Wright's "organic architecture" philosophy, seamlessly integrating modern design with natural elements. The home, designed by architect Scott West for a family of four, utilizes natural materials like wood, stone, and concrete throughout its structure to create a continuous flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design's core principle is to avoid disrupting the landscape, instead enhancing its inherent beauty through thoughtful architectural choices. A key feature of the house is the extensive use of glass, including ipe ceilings that extend over glass transom windows and out to the terrace, and glass-walled "pocket gardens" strategically placed in the entry, primary suite, and even the basement garage. These elements introduce organic textures and maintain a visual connection with nature from various points within the home. The most striking element is a 40-foot-long retractable glass wall that spans the entire rear of the house, effectively dissolving the boundary between the interior living space and the outdoor environment, especially the pool area. Project designer Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors highlights the home's continuous flow, noting that the design encourages the family to utilize the entire dwelling, with a central "spine" that connects all rooms. The owners, who previously resided in a four-story townhouse, desired a single-floor lifestyle in their new home, a preference that influenced the expansive layout. This design also allowed for the incorporation of a large subterranean garage, accommodating the owners' sports car collection. The aesthetic of the home draws inspiration from the owners' extensive travels, particularly to Asia, and their experience in luxury hotel development. This influence is evident in the selection of dramatic, luxurious materials and a minimalist approach to accessories. Furniture is characterized by clean lines and upholstered in dark neutrals, with subtle accents of navy. Accessories are intentionally sparse, contributing to an uncluttered and sophisticated ambiance. The outdoor landscaping further reinforces the serene, nature-inspired theme with the inclusion of pom-pom trees, bamboo, and tall grasses. Throughout the home, bespoke details enhance the organic and luxurious feel. A Tom Dixon blown-glass light fixture with an imperfect, organic quality is featured in the foyer. Concrete panels above a see-through fireplace are arranged in a deliberate abstract pattern. The kitchen boasts a sleek Poliform design with bookmatched marble, chosen for its vibrant character over manmade surfaces. The primary bathroom showcases Calacatta Viola marble and black cork walls, with light streaming through tall windows that overlook a private outdoor shower surrounded by lush foliage. In the dining area, another organic blown-glass fixture softly illuminates a dark marble Poliform table. The living room is designed to foster social interaction, intentionally omitting a television. A see-through metal screen separates it from an adjoining music room, providing both architectural interest and a degree of privacy. The primary bedroom features a wall of windows facing the backyard, where stone walls surrounding the pool are integrated with built-in firepits, planters, and fountains, with architect Scott West contributing to the outdoor space design. A corner of the primary bedroom is transformed into a private oasis by glass walls enclosing a shower garden. White oak floors with a custom stain create a contrast with the primary suite’s dark palette, including a gray mohair-upholstered wall, providing a crisp and fresh feel to the room. The overall result is a home that, despite its urban Buckhead location, evokes a sense of a luxurious, faraway sanctuary, blending intimacy with an expansive connection to its surroundings. #OrganicArchitecture #ModernDesign #GlassWalls #PocketGardens #Buckhead #NaturalMaterials #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #LandscapeIntegration

This article highlights the extensive renovation and interior design transformation of a historic Federal-style townhouse in Smith Row, Georgetown, Washington, DC. Built in 1815, these homes are rarely available, and the current owners undertook a nearly three-year project to update the property while honoring its historical integrity. The renovation involved a "full-gut" and an excavation to add space in the basement, overseen by Overmyer Architects, Goldsborough Design Build, and DCA Landscape Architects, with Tracy Morris Design handling the luxurious interior finishes. The entry foyer was designed to complement the home's elegant Federal-style detailing with contemporary furnishings. Overmyer Architects introduced wall paneling for subtle detail, and the space was kept clutter-free with minimal furnishings. The original floors were replaced with warm walnut by Welborn & Wright, and modern fixtures like a lantern from Urban Electric and a console by Alfonso Marina were incorporated. The design intent was to create a contemporary contrast that highlights the home's historic architecture, a significant undertaking given the property's neglected state prior to the renovation. A new family living room was added to the home, featuring an enormous skylight and a wall of windows designed by Overmyer Architects, including a modern pivot door. The room is grounded by a washed Oushak rug from Afghanistan, and a custom Vanguard sofa was built to fit the space, providing comfort without overwhelming it. This addition exemplifies how modern functionality and aesthetic preferences were integrated into the historic structure. The kitchen, also an addition, was conceived as a clean-lined galley space. It showcases a stylish combination of white, slab-front cabinets with warm walnut sections, blending contemporary design with a nod to the home's original era. High-end Gaggenau appliances contribute to the streamlined aesthetic. This design choice reflects a commitment to both modern utility and visual harmony within the renovated property. The first-floor living room serves as a more formal area, embodying the balance between elegance and comfort the clients desired. Tracy Morris describes it as her favorite room, combining old and new elements effectively. A. Rudin sofas with clean lines are balanced by classical column fluting, creating a transitional aesthetic. The homeowner's artwork was used as a color base, and a washed Oushak rug tied the color scheme together. Custom console tables from Ferrel Mittman, Vaughn Lamps, and bespoke framed mirrors complete the sophisticated yet approachable ambiance. The bedroom offers a blend of traditional style and modern comforts. The calm decor is highlighted by smart features, such as a painting over the fireplace that conceals a wall-mounted TV and a remote-controlled fireplace. Benjamin Moore’s Winter Solstice paint color was chosen for the walls to create an enveloping atmosphere that makes cream accents stand out. In the primary bathroom, generous proportions allowed for luxurious design elements. A stone fireplace was created using book-matched slabs, serving as a focal point. A gently curved Kallista tub and single faucet mirror the tub's shape, offering a soft contrast to the hard stone. The exterior of the 200-year-old Federal-style home was meticulously preserved, with windows refurbished by hand and millwork given a new paint job using Benjamin Moore’s Lafayette Green in a high gloss for the shutters and front door. The overall renovation successfully combined traditional period details and original features with contemporary design elements, resulting in a beautiful and comfortable modern home. #HistoricHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #GeorgetownDC #FederalStyle #ModernTraditionalMix #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalRenovation

This article highlights the second annual Modern Style showhouse by Atlanta Magazine’s HOME, which features a meticulously renovated 1980s contemporary house in Buckhead. The project signals a growing appreciation for the architectural style of the 1980s within the city, opting for renovation over demolition. Originally designed in 1987 by architect Larry Farrow, a cofounder of GreenbergFarrow, the house served as his family's residence until 2003. After a prolonged period of vacancy, the current owners embarked on a mission to revitalize the property. Rodolfo Castro of Castro Design Studio served as the residential designer, aiming to preserve the original architectural integrity while updating it for contemporary living. Castro's redesign involved opening up the floor plan to create more expansive kitchen and dining areas. Additionally, he oversaw the construction of an extension that includes a new bedroom suite and laundry room, alongside the renovation of a study and master suite, which now feature larger bathrooms and abundant storage solutions. Tate Builders & Associates, led by Emily and Steve Tate, managed the construction aspects of the project. Julie Witzel of J. Witzel Interior Design led the interior design efforts, establishing a cohesive modern aesthetic throughout the house with clean lines and warm accents. Her selections for lighting, flooring, and stone were instrumental in maintaining a consistent look across the various spaces, which were decorated by 12 distinct design teams. Witzel herself designed the conjoined living and dining rooms and collaborated with Kingdom Woodworks on the kitchen, breakfast room, bathrooms, and laundry areas. The diverse contributions from different design teams brought unique character to each space. GraysonHarris Interiors + Design crafted an electric blue, high-contrast master bedroom and bath, while Mallori Hamilton from Wakefield Beasley Interiors envisioned a serene and mellow guest suite. Justin Q. Williams of Trademark Design Co. created a cozy yet impactful bedroom, and Beth Kooby Sobbott designed a bohemian-inspired retreat for a teenager. Roche Bobois contributed a vibrant sitting room featuring Kenzo Takada’s iconic Mah Jong sofa. Katja Lauterbach of Duett Design designed a study emphasizing restraint and an adjacent bathroom with a minimalist aesthetic. Additional spaces include powder rooms designed by Kerry Jemison Weinheimer of Jemison Design and Leah Alexander of Beauty Is Abundant. Kolo Collection curated an avant-garde selection of outdoor furniture for the pool deck, complementing the original angular pool. The home's closets and pantries were outfitted by The Container Store with their Avera line, offering customized storage solutions. This collaborative effort transformed the 1980s architectural gem into a modern showhouse that honors its past while embracing contemporary design and functionality. #ModernStyleShowhouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #BuckheadHomes #LarryFarrow #RodolfoCastro #JulieWitzel #AtlantaDesign

This blog post explores the transformation of a historic colonial revival home dating back to 1895 in Newton Center, Massachusetts. The owners sought to update their property with a glamorous, sexy, and elegant aesthetic, while simultaneously restoring and enhancing its original architectural features. The project aimed to integrate sympathetic interior décor with a contemporary flair from the 2020s. Before addressing the design details, the primary challenge involved removing uncomplimentary architectural additions from the 1940s, 80s, and 90s, particularly a deteriorating 1980s kitchen. Designer Cecilia Casagrande was commissioned to address these challenges, focusing on enhancing the home's original architecture while adapting it for modern living. Her approach successfully blended original period details with quirky and glamorous contemporary touches. The kitchen redesign, for instance, drew inspiration from the client’s Turkish Iznik pottery collection and antique rugs, transforming a drab 1980s space into a bright, open area. The design incorporated a mix of midcentury, antique, and modern elements, evident in pairings like a midcentury side table with a modern bed frame, or a curved sofa with modern lamps. The breakfast nook features an antique pedestal table and vintage dining chairs, harmonizing with the updated kitchen. The cabinet colors, specifically Farrow & Ball’s Paean Black and Benjamin Moore’s Yorktowne Green, were inspired by the blue hues of the Turkish plate collection. The kitchen also boasts vintage rugs from Afghanistan, brass taps by Barber Wilson, and handmade tiles from Winchester Tile in England, along with green stone accents, contributing to a worldly and earthy feel. The living room, characterized by intricate wood detailing and an impressive bay window, features walls, trim, and ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue. This bold color choice maintains the modernity of the ornate trim while creating a cozy Victorian parlor ambiance. Natural walnut elements on doors and trim are highlighted with a clear poly finish. The room includes a midcentury vintage sofa upholstered in mohair blue velvet, complemented by a rounded Jonathan Adler Danner sofa and Kelly Wearstler lamps to create a “sexy vibe.” Midcentury furnishings, such as a reupholstered Thayer Coggin swivel chair and a new Thayer Coggin Roxy chair, along with a round midcentury pi-coffee table and Moroccan inlaid side tables, contribute to a global aesthetic through eclectic accessories sourced internationally. A vibrant artwork by Hunt Slonem in a gilt frame and a vintage carved sideboard add glamour to a corner of the living room. The dining room reflects the clients' vision with quirky contemporary elements like Cole & Son Leopard Walk wallpaper and a stag chandelier sourced from Germany. Iconic midcentury Saarinen chairs and a stunning Suzani tablecloth complete the eclectic and joyful space, which is described as Victorian modern. The upstairs landing serves as an inviting seating area, utilizing natural light from an original gothic-detailed 1895 window and featuring French-style armchairs and a chess set. The primary bedroom showcases pastel pinks, blending antique, vintage, and modern furnishings. Brass elements, such as Sarreid chests, an antique mirror, and an Alexa Hampton ceiling light, add character. Walls are painted in Farrow & Ball's Middleton Pink with trim in Dove Tail, while House of Hackney and Timorous Beasties pillows, a modern champagne velvet bed, and a faux sheepskin swivel chair balance the vintage pieces. The bathroom features a Penhaglion cast iron tub in unlacquered brass, a striking choice for the historic home, complemented by classic marble tiles, Timorous Beasties curtains, and brass accents, offering a modern twist on traditional design. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the transformation, noting that each room was thoughtfully designed and inspired by their existing collections, making the renovation a collaborative effort from architectural restoration to fabric selection. The project successfully honored the home's original features while introducing contemporary humor and subtle updates. #HistoricHomeRenovation #ColonialRevival #InteriorDesign #BoldColorSchemes #VictorianModern #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDecor #BedroomIdeas #BathroomDesign

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

This article highlights the design of a Colonial Revival-style home in Greenwich, Connecticut, a collaborative effort between interior designer Victoria Hagan and architect Oscar Shamamian for a family with three teenage children. The project aimed to create a home that felt established, as if it had always been there, while also meeting the needs of a modern family. Shamamian's firm, Ferguson & Shamamian, is renowned for blending traditional design with contemporary living requirements. A key aspect of their approach was starting with a basic furniture plan, a practice Shamamian carried over from his time at Parish-Hadley, ensuring every room's design was grounded in its functional layout. The European clients desired a home that balanced formality with the relaxed atmosphere they were accustomed to in their previous, smaller residence. This meant creating spaces suitable for both intimate family life and larger gatherings, particularly for holidays and extended family visits from overseas. The design emphasizes symmetry and scale, contributing to a cohesive and spacious feel, particularly evident in the living room. Hagan's role was crucial in integrating the interiors with the surrounding lush views, maximizing natural light, which she considers the "best accessory." She expertly incorporated a palette of soft blues and neutrals, applying them in both bold and ethereal ways to suit the clients' preferences. The home features traditional architectural details that imbue it with a sense of history, effectively achieving the goal of making the new construction appear well-established. The dining room, for instance, exhibits "all-out glamour" with glimmering flourishes, including a Maison Jansen table, an Italian 1930s chandelier, and custom hand-painted wallpaper. The kitchen was designed to be both gleaming and accommodating, suitable for both small family meals and large groups, with high-end appliances and custom cabinetry. The design also thoughtfully included practical elements such as a dedicated space for washing the family's Labrador retrievers, underscoring the functional aspect of the home. Hagan skillfully blended the couple's European heritage into the decor by incorporating antique heirlooms alongside newly acquired early 20th-century pieces, creating a narrative of French furniture design. A notable example is the Jean-Charles Moreux console in the dining room, embraced by the wife despite initial concerns from Hagan about its reception. Prior to the family moving in, Hagan personally ensured the comfort and functionality of every furniture piece and their arrangements. The outdoor spaces are equally considered, with clipped boxwoods adding sculptural elements to the garden and a pool area designed for relaxation. Ultimately, the project delivered a residence that is both stately and relaxed, classic and contemporary, reflecting the sophisticated taste and practical needs of its inhabitants. The collaboration between the architect and designer resulted in a home that feels both grand and intimately livable, a testament to thoughtful design and a deep understanding of the clients' lifestyle. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColonialRevival #VictoriaHagan #OscarShamamian #GreenwichConnecticut #LuxuryHome #TraditionalDesign #ModernLiving

In the vibrant Greenpoint section of Brooklyn, a creative couple, Jill Magid, a conceptual artist, and Jonny Bauer, an advertising executive, embarked on a significant remodel of their row house. This property, originally a workman’s cottage, underwent a head-to-toe transformation completed in mid-2013, blending its historical essence with modern design sensibilities. The exterior of the home immediately signals its updated character through subtle yet impactful design choices. For instance, the house numbers, a sleek neon '175' rendered in a sans serif font, serve as a modern beacon on a street otherwise characterized by more traditional architecture. This miniature, functional art piece, created by Magid herself, hints at the artistic and thoughtful approach taken throughout the renovation. The project focused on preserving the historic 'bones' of the structure while introducing contemporary interior updates to suit the couple's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This careful balance ensures that the home respects its past as a workman's cottage but simultaneously functions as a modern family residence. The renovation involved a comprehensive overhaul, from structural adjustments to the selection of finishes and fixtures, all designed to enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of the space. The integration of modern elements, such as the distinctive neon house numbers and potentially other interior design features, contrasts with the traditional brick siding, creating a unique visual identity for the property. The article highlights how the couple approached the renovation, suggesting a collaborative effort that infused their individual creative and professional backgrounds into the home's design. The choice of materials, color palettes, and spatial arrangements would have been meticulously considered to achieve a harmonious blend of old and new. This thoughtful renovation process aims to create a living space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional for a contemporary family. The remodel transforms the historic dwelling into a personalized sanctuary that reflects the artistic inclinations of its owners while maintaining a connection to its architectural heritage. Ultimately, the project in Greenpoint serves as an example of how historic properties can be revitalized through careful and creative renovation. By updating the interior while honoring the original structure, Magid and Bauer have created a home that stands out with its unique blend of artistic expression and historical charm. The narrative implicitly suggests that the renovation involved strategic decisions to modernize living spaces, improve natural light, and optimize the layout, all contributing to a more comfortable and visually engaging environment. The home becomes a testament to how art and design can elevate everyday living within an urban historical context. #BrooklynHome #HomeRenovation #HistoricPreservation #ModernInteriorDesign #Greenpoint #ArtisticHome #RowHouseRenovation #CreativeCouple #UrbanDesign

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