Inside a Family Home With Global Style

Designer Taylor Johnson’s favorite room is a versatile living-dining space that successfully blends formal elegance with child-friendly durability. The client, a family with two young children, desired a home that could withstand the rigors of daily family life without sacrificing sophisticated aesthetics. Johnson focused on creating a design that appears polished enough for entertaining guests while incorporating practical, resilient elements suitable for children. The transformation of this combined living and dining area demonstrates how thoughtful material selection and design choices can lead to a space that is both beautiful and functional for a family-oriented lifestyle. To achieve this balance, Johnson employed a range of strategic design decisions. The overall aesthetic leans towards a refined look, featuring details such as a waterfall bench in the dining area, a statement dining chandelier, and drapes in a precise shade of pink, all contributing to an elevated and stylish ambiance. However, beneath this elegant surface, the furniture and finishes were carefully chosen for their hard-wearing properties. Sofas, for instance, were selected not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their durable upholstery, making them resilient against spills and everyday wear and tear common with young children. Johnson challenges conventional wisdom by suggesting that sofas don't always need to be in traditional, light-colored neutrals like beige or cream; a blue sofa, for example, can be considered a "safe" color while significantly elevating the room's overall look and providing better camouflage for minor blemishes. Throughout the room, particular attention was paid to creating a cohesive yet practical environment. The design integrates various textures and colors to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Lighting, exemplified by the chandelier, plays a crucial role in enhancing the room's formal appeal, while also providing adequate illumination for both dining and living activities. The drapes, in their carefully chosen pink hue, introduce a subtle pop of color and softness, contributing to the room’s sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Johnson’s approach highlights the importance of anticipating the needs of a busy family while ensuring that the home retains a sense of style and elegance. Ultimately, this living-dining room serves as an exemplary model for families seeking to combine high-end design with everyday practicality. The project successfully demonstrates that a space can be formal and stylish without being delicate or impractical. By integrating durable materials, considering color choices that are both fashionable and forgiving, and meticulously selecting each design element, Johnson crafted a room that not only looks impressive but also stands up to the demands of an active household. This design philosophy offers valuable insights for anyone aiming to create a beautiful, resilient, and family-friendly home environment. #HomeDesign #KidFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #LivingDiningRoom #FamilyHome #StylishLiving #DurableDesign #FunctionalSpace

The article explores the concept of transforming a mere house into a personal home, drawing insights from 12 creative individuals across various fields, including fashion, art, architecture, and culinary arts. Each expert shares a unique perspective on what constitutes the essence of a home, highlighting both tangible objects and intangible relationships. Doris de Pont, director of the New Zealand Fashion Museum, emphasizes the role of a large, enduring kauri library table as the central gathering point for her family, symbolizing connection and shared experiences. Her custom-designed red lacquer wardrobe, which reflects the garden, showcases how personal storage solutions can become artistic and functional elements within a living space. Artist Jade Townsend, from Ngāti Kahungunu, frames home through the lens of Te Ao Māori, emphasizing relationships with all living and non-living things. Her art, created within her domestic space, reflects this belief, making her home a dynamic and evolving expression of her cultural and personal identity. She views home as a place for growth, distinct from the self-discovery experienced while away. Dan Ahwa, fashion director for Canvas, recounts his journey of making his home feel less "juvenile" post-marriage. A vintage, scallop-shaped pink velvet zebra-striped couch became the pivotal piece, defying conventional taste to anchor their eclectic style. Surrounded by plants, books, and a 1930s leadlight drinks cabinet, his home reflects a surprising yet cohesive personal aesthetic. Interior designer Nicola Manning highlights the importance of a luxurious and comfortable bed for creating a sense of security and refuge. She stresses that personal touches, such as inherited antiques, travel souvenirs, art, and photographs, are crucial for imbuing a house with individual character and transforming it into a true home. Ceramic artist Phil Brooks, influenced by his mother's love for bargains, describes his home as an evolving collection of unique finds from charity shops and antique markets. A large beaded panel from Kuala Lumpur, treasured by his mother and now displayed in his daughter's room, exemplifies how objects with rich histories contribute to the narrative and essence of his family home. Architect Christina van Bohemen views home as both a refuge and a gathering place. Her dining table, a simple, narrow Sam Haughton design, acts as an anchor for various activities and fosters intimacy. She also values the strategic placement of furniture to maximize views, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the outside world. Chef Dariush Lolaiy, co-owner of Cazador, finds his home's heart in a custom-made, bright mustard-colored couch, a symbol of leisure after long workdays. Paintings inherited from his wife's great-uncle further cement their connection to family history, making their apartment feel more like a home. Divya Purushotham, an associate at Warren and Mahoney, describes her 130-year-old railway worker's cottage as a space of ongoing renovation and reflection. A name plaque, "Temuka," above her front door, and antique brass pots from her grandparents in India, serve as irreplaceable links to her heritage, contributing to a deep sense of belonging. Chef Jason Kim's definition of home centers on personal routine and family. His early morning ritual of Korean canned coffee and Iron Maiden, quickly followed by making cheese toasties for his children, illustrates how small, consistent moments of connection and comfort define his domestic life. Interior designer Amanda Neill, a Sagittarius, is drawn to fire and its ambient qualities. Her custom-made Alchemy Firepits, adorned with an evocative quote, represent a deep need for connection and provide a gathering point for loved ones, symbolizing warmth for both body and soul. Glass artist Devon Ormsby curates her home with artworks and art objects, such as Ruth Castle woven baskets and a Walk in the Park wooden bowl. Her personal collection, constantly evolving with her own glass creations and pieces from peers, transforms her living space into a "curated museum" reflecting her interests and life story. Emma Ogilvie, general manager of Bar Celeste, values a functional kitchen with an island bench that allows for social cooking and hosting. Having a well-stocked fridge, despite their busy schedules, is essential for creating a homely atmosphere, counteracting the feeling of always being away. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #PersonalStyle #CreativeExperts #DomesticSpaces #FamilyLife #ArtInHome #CulturalHeritage #ComfortAndConnection

Maria Dueñas Jacobs, former accessories director at Elle magazine and founder of the children's jewelry line Super Smalls, has designed her New York West Village apartment to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional for her family, which includes her husband, Jordan, and their three daughters, Luna, Isa, and Silvi. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining a pristine home with young children, Jacobs adopted a philosophy of "strategic mess," focusing on durability and flexibility in her design choices. The apartment's layout, conceived with architects Marc Turkel of Leroy Street Studio and designer Jerry Cappiello, features a versatile four-bedroom plan that can adapt as her children grow from toddlers to teenagers. The home maintains a streamlined and intentional aesthetic, characterized by a neutral color palette accented with lavender and dusty blush tones. Key pieces of furniture, such as an ash- and burl-wood credenza, a navy leather-front bureau, and a Theo Ruth shearling club chair, provide grounding elements. Despite its sophisticated appearance, the apartment integrates numerous child-friendly features. The open-plan living, kitchen, and dining areas facilitate easy supervision, while an expandable dining table is paired with a built-in banquette upholstered in stain-resistant outdoor fabric. A custom ottoman with curved edges and scratch-resistant mohair caters to both children and their pet cat, Frankie, ensuring the space is suitable for entertaining, daily life, and family activities. Jacobs's approach extends to whimsical and practical decor. She incorporated spill-hiding, colorful patterned rugs and a custom daybed with built-in storage. The girls' bedroom is designed as a perpetual slumber party, featuring a teepee, cloud-painted walls, and a unique Murano glass light fixture. The adjacent playroom emphasizes freedom and joy, with movable furniture like bookshelves, beanbag chairs, and an arts-and-crafts table to accommodate dance parties and scooter rides. Practical elements are subtly woven into these playful spaces; for instance, the bunk bed includes stairs with hidden storage drawers, and the loft area can be converted into a desk or game spot in the future. Adult spaces also reflect a balance of practicality and creativity. The guest room includes a custom pull-out trundle for visitors, while the living room showcases a custom Moroccan rug mashup of two different patterns that Jacobs combined. Her bedside tables are topped with rose quartz, chosen for both its durability and its perceived magical and healing properties. The living room bookshelf serves as a display for personal and collected items, such as a Buddha statue, family photos, and ceramic vessels. Art plays a significant role, with pieces ranging from a Warhol print and a Robert Motherwell print to abstract paintings by Jacobs’s artist mother, Rosaria Pugliese, and even her children’s drawings, all coexisting harmoniously. Investment pieces are strategically placed out of children's reach, such as a Kalmar chandelier and disc lights by Apparatus Studio, which Jacobs considers akin to art or jewelry that completes an outfit. This thoughtful integration of high-end design with kid-proof functionality creates a home that is both beautiful and resilient, allowing for both sophisticated adult living and energetic child's play. The overall design prioritizes a lived-in, adaptable style that accommodates the evolving needs of a growing family, embracing the joyful chaos that comes with children while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. #FamilyHomeDesign #KidFriendlyDecor #InteriorDesign #WestVillageApartment #FlexibleLiving #NeutralColorPalette #CustomFurniture #HomeTour

This article details the transformation of a newly built holiday home on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, designed to offer a tranquil escape for a busy family. The property, acquired during the Covid period, replaced an old fibro shack with a modern structure by InForm and Pleysier Perkins, featuring interiors curated by Bree Banfield. While the exterior of the house incorporates Japanese design influences with moody, geometric black charred screens, the interior design prioritizes a lighthearted, low-key, and family-friendly atmosphere, emphasizing comfort and serenity. The homeowner was actively involved in the design process, providing a detailed vision, which was then refined and elevated by interior designer Bree Banfield. Banfield praised the client's thoroughness, using the moodboards as a foundation for sourcing artwork and soft furnishings, in addition to advising on finishes. A core element of the interior scheme was the color palette, which began with Dulux Earth Warming on the pantry joinery. This established a foundation of warm, clay-based tones with peach hues, deliberately avoiding a purely Scandinavian aesthetic. Soft oranges and tints of green were layered throughout to enhance a summery feel and contribute to the overall earthy ambience. Upon entering through a Zen courtyard, visitors are greeted by a double-height, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. This expansive space is made cozy in cooler months by a fireplace. Located behind the living room is the children's wing, which includes a secondary living room, the main bathroom, and three bedrooms, one of which has an ensuite. The design team focused on creating a comfortable and durable environment, selecting high-quality, hard-wearing pieces, including solid timber furniture, to withstand the rigors of family life without appearing overly precious or pristine. Imperfections are embraced through textured materials and the deliberate avoidance of stark white surfaces. An L-shaped outdoor area complements the home’s interior, featuring an entertaining deck that connects to a dedicated health studio. This studio is equipped with an infrared sauna, an ice bath, and a Pilates reformer bed, catering to the family’s commitment to health and wellness. The initial plan for a single-level home was revised due to the irregular plot shape, leading to the addition of an upper floor. This second level houses the main suite, a cinema room, and a parents' retreat, offering private spaces within the larger home. The owner highlights that despite the house's size, careful design has created cozy and inviting spaces, fostering a sense of being on holiday and promoting a slower pace of life, leading them to consider making it their permanent residence. Banfield's primary challenge was to soften the modern architectural lines, which she achieved through strategic material choices. She introduced textural elements like a Tigmi rug to contrast with the existing terrazzo and used sconces, shapely lamps, and a custom crochet pendant by Hamimi to add warmth and character, moving beyond standard ceiling lights. Pattern was integrated through an armchair in the lounge and khaki-print wallpaper in a guest room, while textile artworks by various artists further enrich the walls. The overall design successfully fosters a calming environment that encourages relaxation and quality family time, fulfilling the owners’ desire for a peaceful retreat away from city life. #HolidayHomeDesign #ZenInspiredInteriors #MorningtonPeninsula #WabiSabiStyle #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FamilyFriendlyHome #ArchitecturalDesign #OutdoorLiving

This article details the transformation of a 5,000-square-foot new-build house in southwest London, where interior designers James Arkoulis and Saskia Howard of Howark Design created a vibrant and family-friendly home. The homeowners, particularly their three children aged 7 to 11, drew inspiration from the whimsical interior of the kids' film Paddington Bear. This unconventional reference led to a design ethos focused on fun, color, and practicality for an active family life, moving away from the previous developer-grade finishes like glossy gray kitchen units and marble floors. The design process involved a deliberate shift towards a more colorful and energetic aesthetic. The designers had to navigate the homeowners' desire for brightness, sometimes even pushing for bolder hues than initially suggested. A key element was the extensive use of color, exemplified by the kitchen's bright yellow cabinets, painted with Farrow & Ball’s Babouche. This choice, while requiring convincing, ultimately achieved the desired warm and balanced effect. The kitchen, a large 30-foot space, was ingeniously divided into three distinct zones—an island, a dining setup, and a lounge area—using a bespoke glazed partition and strategic furniture placement, preventing it from feeling overly long and ensuring each section served a real purpose. Storage was a high priority and a significant investment. Bespoke solutions were implemented throughout the house, including a large media unit and library shelves in the basement playroom. This area, spanning the entire footprint beneath the kitchen, was designed with bold colors for the media unit to house board games and art supplies, while a ladder rail provided access to an expanding book collection. The designers also made clever cost-saving decisions, such as retaining the existing wardrobe boxes and updating them with new fronts to create a uniform, custom look. Artisan craftsmanship was incorporated, particularly in the principal en suite, where space was reallocated to expand the dressing room. This expansion included a unique upholstered niche for the children to relax in while their mother prepared. Hepzabeth from the Textile Wall Company created this cozy space, fully upholstered with batons for a soft and enveloping feel. Other impactful, albeit smaller, details included replacing harsh chrome hardware with antique brass in the bathrooms to align with the house’s classical proportions and swapping recessed lighting for softer wall sconces and flush mounts. Several design decisions, like the boldly colored stair runner spanning four levels, were considered risks at the time but ultimately contributed to the home's distinctive character. The project showcases how a creative and playful inspiration, combined with thoughtful design and material choices, can transform a standard new-build into a personalized, functional, and joyful living space tailored to a family's unique dynamics and aesthetic preferences. #HomeTour #LondonHome #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FamilyHome #KidsInspiredDesign #BespokeFurniture #KitchenDesign #PlayroomDesign #StorageSolutions #TextileWall #Renovation

This blog post explores a multi-storey family home that blends modern aesthetics with a sense of warmth, the result of a two-year architectural design and construction process. Located in a quiet neighborhood, the residence is characterized by an open-plan layout, ample natural light, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, making it suitable for both family living and entertaining. The architectural design incorporates large glass facades, bifold sliding doors, and open walkways to create a bright and airy atmosphere. The interior design elements include timber accents and sculptural forms, such as custom-designed steps and an integrated TV wall and staircase, which contribute to the home's cohesive visual flow. The property's original site presented challenges, including uneven ground and a narrow entry point. These issues were addressed through a collaborative effort between the homeowners and their architect, who reconfigured the entrance by widening and elevating the steps. This modification not only improved the home's accessibility but also enhanced its overall spatial clarity. The interior color scheme is defined by a soft cream-grey palette, complemented by dark accents in the dry kitchen and richer-toned furnishings throughout the living spaces. The dining area is designed as a convivial space, featuring a round table, pendant lighting, and a mirrored backdrop that visually expands the area. The dry kitchen maintains a minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and a monochromatic scheme, centered around an island that serves multiple functions, including food preparation and a serving area during social gatherings. The staircase further exemplifies the minimal theme, presenting a black cascading structure with glass railings and timber treads. A rebuilt roof skylight and open risers were incorporated into the staircase design to maximize natural light penetration into the second floor of the home. The master bedroom's design draws inspiration from a boutique hotel in San Sebastián, combining modern Victorian elements with a muted bluish-grey color palette and timber vinyl flooring. This expansive room features an open layout, generous floor space, and floor-to-ceiling sliding windows that connect to an external pivot screen. This screen serves a dual purpose, functioning as both a sunshade and an aesthetic facade element. The design philosophy of openness and connectivity extends to the attic, which has been designated as a flexible and playful area for the family. #HomeTours #MonochromeDesign #OpenConceptHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #ModernLiving #ColourAccents

The article delves into the domestic life of Kelvin and Liz Fletcher, stars of "Fletchers’ Family Farm," who reside in the Peak District with their four children: Marnie, Milo, and two-year-old twins Mateusz and Maximus. The interview offers a glimpse into their daily routines, home preferences, and even their pet peeves, providing insights into how they manage their busy lives as parents, farmers, and actors. Upon entering their home, Kelvin consistently takes off his shoes and hangs jackets, though he notes the difficulty in reaching hangers due to the previous inhabitants' height. Liz, on the other hand, often finds herself navigating a trail of mess created by their children. The kitchen emerges as Liz's 'happy place,' whether it's a quiet sanctuary for a cup of tea or a bustling hub of family activity. Kelvin reveals a practical addiction to storage solutions, frequently purchasing giant plastic boxes to maintain organization. Liz’s homeware addictions include candles and vases, in addition to a collection of breadboards. A lighthearted conflict arises from Kelvin’s habit of placing plates on top of the dishwasher rather than inside it, a habit Liz wishes he would break. When it comes to homeware shopping, Kelvin favors Arighi Bianchi, a fifth-generation family furniture business known for high-end items, and John Lewis, appreciating its British and classic appeal. Liz recalls her pregnant days when she frequented Housing Units, a department store, primarily for their ham sandwiches but often ending up with home purchases. As hosts, Kelvin ensures guests never pay for takeaway, while Liz finds Sunday roasts the easiest meal to prepare, much to the surprise of their visitors who are often served it exclusively. Despite their demanding schedules, which encompass four full-time jobs, moments of stillness are rare. Kelvin fondly remembers sitting on their decking area by an open fire with Liz, enjoying a glass of wine or hot chocolate after the children were asleep, a simple pleasure now less frequent. The Fletchers also share quick preferences on various home topics: shoes are always off indoors; meals are eaten at the table; lighting is preferred moody over bright. Liz opts for quick showers, while Kelvin enjoys long ones. Liz leans towards neutral and earthy color palettes, embracing "creative chaos," whereas Kelvin admits to being a "neat freak." When the children are in bed, Liz’s ultimate preference is peace and quiet. Season two of "Fletchers Family Farm" is scheduled for late 2024 on ITV and ITVBe. The Fletchers maintain an active presence on Instagram, and Kelvin supports the "Mind Your Head" campaign, which aims to raise awareness about mental health challenges faced by British farmers. #CelebrityHome #FamilyLife #HomeDecor #HomeOrganization #FarmLife #Interview #InteriorDesign #DomesticHabits

This article offers a glimpse into the dynamic New York City apartment of designer Tali Roth, who shares her living space with her husband, Marcus, and their two sons, Phoenix (4) and Romeo (3 months). An Australian expatriate who moved from Melbourne to Chelsea, NYC, Roth has built a career on crafting imaginative and elegant spaces for clients without excessive spending. This approach is evident in her own rental apartment, which she has meticulously designed over time, emphasizing the importance of leaving room for evolving tastes and expressing personal style through a mix of high-end and affordable finds, such as an IKEA storage unit paired with a 1950s Italian rattan chair and a mohair sofa from Crofthouse L.A. Her gallery wall showcases a diverse collection, including art by Paul Davies and Georgia O’Keeffe alongside flea market discoveries. Currently on maternity leave, Roth has channeled her creative energy back into her home, regularly rearranging furniture, repositioning art, and acquiring new pieces. A recent notable addition is a large Gufram cactus coatrack, strategically placed in the children’s play area. Despite the presence of young children, the apartment maintains a sophisticated aesthetic, with subtle elements like a playhouse or stroller being the only indicators of its family-friendly nature. Roth demonstrates that an elevated family home can be achieved on a budget through thoughtful design choices. Roth offers practical advice for curating a stylish yet low-maintenance rental suitable for both adults and children. She advocates for avoiding delicate textiles, specifically viscose fabrics, which are prone to shriveling when spilled upon. Instead, she recommends resilient materials like wool, highlighting her living room sofa, which was reupholstered in mohair for durability. Her second couch is designed for comfort and practicality, accommodating family movie nights and nursing without concern for damage. Emphasis is placed on selecting sturdy furniture that can withstand the activities of rambunctious children. Roth points to her low-slung marble coffee table as an example, chosen for its stability. While seemingly child-friendly, a collection of round pillows on the sofa presents a humorous challenge, as her son often dislodges and drools on them during morning screen time. The designer also excels at blending high and low design elements to create custom looks. A 170-inch wall-mounted cabinet in the living room, for instance, is an IKEA base enhanced with a Semihandmade top, fronts, and hardware. Similarly, brass-and-wood shelves in the dining room were an Etsy find. Roth prioritizes investing in art and collectible furniture while opting for more budget-friendly options for pieces that might not be transferable to future residences. Reupholstery is presented as a valuable strategy for refreshing existing pieces rather than discarding them. Two orangey-red chairs in Roth’s living room, originally purchased for $300 each from Etsy and initially upholstered in a “poo-green” color, underwent a transformation. They were first covered in baby blue velvet for her son’s room and later re-covered in a rust velvet with white piping, inspired by a hotel in Paris. Despite the cost of reupholstery, Roth views it as a worthwhile investment due to the chairs’ sentimental value and timeless swivel design. For larger purchases, Roth advises thrifty approaches, often sourcing items from auctions and flea markets. Her sofas include one from the ABC Carpet & Home Outlet, and her Rudolf Wolff dining chairs were assembled from two separate vendors, requiring creative adjustments like spray-painting one to match. She also designed her own dining table. Finally, Roth addresses storage challenges common in rental apartments. With limited closet space, she employs a combination of customized pieces and hidden shelves in the boys’ rooms to organize toys and clothes. In the master bedroom, modular IKEA units keep items out of sight. The pieces that are displayed are carefully curated, each possessing a unique story, from a decorative plate acquired in Positano to crystals gifted by her father and a vase purchased during a vacation in Murano. The art throughout the home comprises gifts from friends and neighbors. Through vision, clever hacks, and an appreciation for beautiful details, Roth demonstrates the possibility of creating a family-friendly design that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #NYCDesign #BudgetDecorating #RentalDecor #HighLowMix #FurnitureHacks #SustainableDesign

This blog post, titled "Parts of the House," serves as a comprehensive guide to various components of a home, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate materials, themes, and aesthetics to maintain interest and uniqueness in each area. It acts as a portal to numerous detailed articles, each focusing on a specific part of the house, offering expert advice and DIY guidance. The content covers a wide array of topics, from fundamental structural elements like foundations, roofs, walls, and floors to more detailed interior and exterior features such as ceilings, chimneys, doors, windows, fireplaces, gutters, insulation, staircases, siding, and trim. It also delves into specific materials like drywall, tiles, concrete, vinyl, hardwood, and carpet, providing practical tips for their installation, maintenance, and repair. For instance, the article highlights the importance of proper sealing for baseboards to prevent drafts, offering a step-by-step approach. It also provides insights into sanding drywall with minimal dust, addressing common issues like drooping ceiling fan blades with troubleshooting tips, and testing the weight-bearing capacity of drywall anchors. Flooring is a recurring theme, with guides on choosing the right type of flooring, avoiding common installation mistakes, and repairing damaged vinyl planks. There are also articles on cutting baseboard corners and installing quarter-round molding for a professional finish. Beyond basic construction and repair, the post touches on home improvement aspects such as insulating storm doors for winter, cleaning fire pits to prevent rust, and painting various surfaces, including concrete and popcorn ceilings. It also features articles on diagnosing and fixing issues like bubbling vinyl siding and preventing retaining wall collapses. Design and aesthetic elements are explored through topics like front door colors for curb appeal and the historical and modern reasons behind blue porch ceilings in Southern homes. Furthermore, the content offers practical advice on improving wall insulation for energy efficiency and showcases new building, kitchen, and bath products from industry events. The articles provide a blend of DIY projects, how-to guides, maintenance tips, inspiration, and product reviews, catering to both novice DIYers and those looking for more advanced techniques. The overarching goal is to empower homeowners with the knowledge and skills to enhance their living spaces, covering everything from minor repairs and cleaning to significant renovations and aesthetic upgrades, while also emphasizing safety and energy efficiency. #HomeImprovement #DIYProjects #HouseComponents #HomeMaintenance #FlooringGuide #WallRepair #CeilingMaintenance #ExteriorCare #InsulationTips

This article highlights the renovation of a five-bedroom family home in Sydney’s east, masterminded by interior designer Jemma Brender in collaboration with architectural firm Place Studio. The owners, a young family, sought to blend sophisticated design with practical liveability, particularly with a toddler and a newborn. The house, purchased in 2016, captivated them with its harbor views, classic architecture, and Spanish-influenced facade, particularly the grand staircase in the entry and a wood-fired pizza oven. However, the existing layout was dated, with a peachy exterior and reddish timber interior, and suffered from disconnected, dark communal areas located on the south side, away from desirable views. The renovation aimed to reorient the floor plan to leverage the northern aspect and harbor vistas. A key objective was to create an airy, open-plan living space with a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, while meticulously preserving the home’s heritage character. The owners desired a design that was traditional enough to complement the exterior but also fresh and contemporary. Jemma Brender, drawing inspiration from French interior designer Christian Liaigre, focused on natural hues, layered textures, clean lines, and meticulous attention to detail. This approach allowed for a 'tone-on-tone' style that effectively modernized the traditional elements of the home. Significant changes on the ground floor included converting a northern corner bedroom into a new kitchen, with its former ensuite and walk-in closet repurposed for casual dining and living areas. The formal dining room, designed to seat ten, was relocated to where the main living zone previously existed, a more logical placement for evening use. A bedroom and family room on the south side were retained without significant changes. The material palette for the interiors emphasized relaxed yet durable furnishings suitable for a family with young children. Linens, outdoor fabrics adapted for indoor use, and oak joinery were chosen for their robustness and earthy, stain-camouflaging tones. Carrara marble was utilized for benchtops in the kitchen and vanities in bathrooms, with specific tapware and lighting fixtures chosen to enhance the overall aesthetic. Illustrations throughout the article showcase the transformed spaces, featuring custom-designed sofas by Jemma Brender, Cadrys rugs, Orient House side tables, and lighting from Fred International and The General Trading Company. Artworks from Art2Muse Gallery and accessories from various high-end brands contribute to the sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance. The bedroom features custom bedheads and joinery, with textiles from Ondene and Maison et Jardin, and sconces from Bloomingdales Lighting. Bathrooms display custom joinery and marble surfaces, alongside fixtures from Candana and Brodware. The owner expressed satisfaction with the outcome, appreciating Jemma's aesthetic that successfully married contemporary elements with the home’s traditional foundation, creating a harmonious and calming environment for family life. #FrenchInfluence #NeutralPalette #FamilyHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SydneyHome #OpenPlanLiving #HeritageCharacter #ContemporaryStyle

The author, Hanya Yanagihara, reflects on the concept of 'home,' noting that her transient upbringing across nine cities and 20 residences prevented her from associating the idea with a single physical space. Instead, her sense of rootedness is derived from an accumulation of specific details, rooms, furniture, and light from the various places she inhabited. This personal reflection introduces a broader exploration of diverse relationships with the notion of home, as presented in T Magazine's Design Issue. The article highlights several distinct examples of family residences, each offering a unique perspective on what constitutes a home. One featured residence is a mountain compound in Brazil, meticulously constructed by furniture designer Etel Carmona and her grown children. This compound is designed to accommodate three generations, balancing communal living with the need for individual privacy for each family member. This arrangement demonstrates a contemporary approach to multi-generational living, where shared spaces coexist with distinct personal areas. Another case study involves an English art dealer in Italy who decides to rededicate himself to Venice, a city with which he has a complex relationship. His new apartment, situated in a 17th-century palazzo, surprisingly turns out to be a place he was familiar with during his teenage years. This narrative explores the serendipitous return to a place that held previous personal significance, illustrating how history and personal memory can intertwine with one's definition of home. The story suggests that familiarity and a sense of connection can transcend the novelty of a new dwelling, transforming it into a deeply personal space. The cover story of the Design Issue focuses on the three residences created by the Swedish painter Carl Larsson and his wife, Karin, located north of Stockholm. Their first house, Lilla Hyttnäs, has been maintained by their descendants since the 1940s, with parts accessible to visitors and others remaining private. This home, more than a century after the Larssons' passing, continues to preserve their artistic legacy, furniture, and overall spirit, while also adapting to the improvisations and additions introduced by subsequent generations. This longevity and evolving nature of the Larsson home exemplify a living history, where a residence becomes a vessel for enduring family heritage and creative expression. The Larssons' original vision for their home was revolutionary for its time, rejecting the perceived monotony of bourgeois design characterized by dark furniture and neo-Renaissance styles. Instead, they championed folk art, craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and a sense of coziness. Their intention was to create an environment that felt inherently like a 'home,' rather than merely a 'house.' This distinction underscores the emotional and experiential qualities that define a true home, emphasizing comfort, personal expression, and a departure from conventional, often sterile, architectural norms. The article concludes by reinforcing the idea that a home is not just a structure but a dynamic entity shaped by personal histories, family connections, and artistic values. #HomeDesign #FamilyResidences #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyle #BrazilianDesign #VenetianApartment #SwedishArt #MultiGenerationalLiving

Joy Williams, an interior designer, recently undertook a hallway makeover for the Adler on the Park showhouse in Chicago, demonstrating that even small spaces can be transformed into engaging and vibrant areas. The original hallway was a mere pass-through with gray walls and light wood flooring, lacking character. Williams aimed to create a space that would encourage residents to pause and interact, rather than simply moving through. The Adler on the Park showhouse is housed within a landmark building, a set of four row homes constructed between 1915 and 1917, designed by David Adler and Henry Dangler. The building underwent a comprehensive renovation and partial restoration, allowing designers creative freedom while respecting its historical integrity. Williams embraced a global theme, intricately weaving together elements from West African and Asian design traditions. Her inspiration for the space was deeply personal, drawing from Chicago's diverse immigrant neighborhoods, the captivating cherry blossom season she experienced in Kyoto, Japan, and her appreciation for West African architectural design and structure. This diverse palette of influences culminated in a unique and inviting entrance hall. Williams' transformation of the hallway was extensive, moving beyond the existing flooring and a black unit door. She introduced bold color to the walls using bright pink and red paints from Sherwin-Williams, complemented by a pink patterned wallpaper by Thibaut. A focal point was established at the end of the hall, where she designed a white and gold credenza. This credenza, adorned with brass urns, palms, a statue, and custom art by a local artist, was inspired by her travels through Morocco. The renovated foyer now functions as an inspiring passage, guiding residents to their respective units. Its welcoming and homey ambiance is intended to enhance the residents' experience, encouraging them to linger and enjoy the entrance hall rather than treating it solely as a transitional space. Williams also shared insights into the project's challenges and budget allocation. She mentioned that varying ceiling heights necessitated a change in lighting fixtures, leading to the substitution of a chandelier with a wall sconce from Hubbardton Forge, a change that ultimately integrated seamlessly into the design. The majority of the budget was allocated to artwork and furniture, including the custom rift-sawn oak credenza painted in Benjamin Moore bright white and gold. Cost-saving measures included purchasing plants from Home Depot, which offered a good selection. Williams' favorite aspects of the completed space are the vibrant color combination and the original artwork. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #HallwayMakeover #GlobalDesign #WestAfricanDesign #AsianDesign #ColorPalette #Showhouse #ChicagoDesign

This article details the design choices made in an 8,000-square-foot new build in Alberta, Canada, owned by Rebecca and Brad Mclean. Designers Shannon McClelland and Brianna Hughes of Ministry of Interiors were brought in to infuse character into the newly constructed home, drawing inspiration from old-world European design. A key feature of the home is a glass atrium, which, while not part of the initial plans, was incorporated off the large foyer after Rebecca Mclean's insistence, requiring significant engineering adjustments. This sun-filled enclosure ultimately became a beloved element of the home. The design strategy involved juxtaposing traditional elements with modern twists. For instance, wrought-iron black doors are paired with a funky powder bathroom featuring reeded wainscoting painted in Farrow & Ball’s Bancha green, a pink stone vanity, and Technicolor marble herringbone floors. The kitchen, designed to be classic, rich, timeless, and French-inspired, features matte black cabinets and thin door profiles, providing a sense of heft and depth to the open-concept space. Calacatta Paonazzo marble was used extensively for countertops, the island, range hood, and backsplash, chosen by Mclean herself. The living and dining areas are illuminated by south-facing, floor-to-ceiling, double-height windows. A unique design element is the interior limestone wall, which matches the home's exterior siding, bringing the outdoors in. Porcelain Bocci light fixtures cascading down the stairs soften the robust look of the stone, and the fireplace is finished with a clay coating for an organic feel. The lower level of the home defies typical basement design, featuring a media zone clad in black porcelain terrazzo tiles from Julian, which helps integrate the TV into the decor. This level also includes a bar and secondary kitchen with a soapstone island and a fish-scale tile backsplash, strategically placed near a movie theater to allow for simultaneous viewing and entertaining. In the main bedroom, the designers opted for a rich, non-traditional color scheme, utilizing Benjamin Moore’s Salamander green for the walls, ceiling, and molding to create an enveloping effect. This bold color choice is balanced by the room's expansive windows and size. The children's shared bedroom strikes a lighter note with a decorative rock wall and a lofted play space, decorated in a dinosaur theme. The kids' bathroom features a unique falling block tile design by Clé called Diamond Twist, subtly referencing the climbing wall in the adjacent room, complemented by white accents like a terrazzo shower wall and matte plumbing fixtures to maintain a modern aesthetic. Throughout the process, Mclean found that trusting her initial design instincts proved most effective in keeping the project on track. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #ColorPalette #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalFeatures #Renovation

The new Club Med Tomamu, a ski-in ski-out resort located on Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, features a visually striking design that harmonizes modern elements with traditional aesthetics and alpine-inspired interiors. World-class designer Jean-Philippe Nuel drew inspiration from the surrounding natural environment, incorporating genuine winter-white birch and spring bloom garlands into the resort's foyer. The 341-room property is characterized by a vibrant color palette, including reds, blues, calming greens, rich brown timbers, and splashes of yellow, all coexisting to create a restful and relaxing atmosphere for guests. Jean-Philippe Nuel emphasizes the uniqueness of the resort's natural setting, which heavily influenced its interior design. The design philosophy behind Club Med Tomamu aimed to create an edgy interior that aligns with the brand's reputation for upbeat, friendly, all-inclusive premium holiday experiences. The result is a collection of funky furnishings and traditional Japanese design elements that are both eye-catching and comfortable, prompting guests to consider incorporating similar styles into their own homes. The main bar and lounge areas offer plush armchairs and luxurious upholstered daybeds, positioned to provide panoramic views of Tomamu's main slopes through expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. A notable design feature is a floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall Japanese-style bookshelf at one end of the bar, further enhancing the blend of culture and nature within the resort. Nuel highlights the successful fusion of Club Med's energetic culture with the surrounding natural beauty and local traditions, achieving an elegant and purposeful design. The resort's main dining areas are adorned with rich colors and patterns that evoke the four seasons, while the buffet room is designed to mimic the lively ambiance of an Asian night market, complete with rich red countertops and wicker lightshades illuminating dessert displays. The guest rooms and suites are styled to resemble those found in a boutique city hotel or apartment, featuring royal blue bedspreads, luxe gold throws, and floral rugs with red and orange accents. These vibrant colors are balanced by muted forest green couches and dark timber joinery, which thoughtfully frame the snowy winter landscape outside. Since its opening on December 17 last year, Club Med Tomamu has consistently operated at near-full capacity, largely attracting Australian holiday-makers. #Contemporary #Family #InternationalTravel #LuxuryResort #JapaneseDesign #AlpineInteriors #Hokkaido #SkiResort #InteriorDesign

This Nashville home, initially a speculative build by Build Nashville, transformed into a personalized "Zen Abode" for co-owner Jamie Duncan, drawing inspiration from her experiences in Costa Rica. During the frame stage, Duncan decided to purchase the house, collaborating with interior designer Elena DeSoto while adding her own custom touches. The design prioritizes a blend of modernity and softness, achieved through the careful selection of textures, greenery, and art. Duncan's personal customizations primarily focused on the backyard, where she integrated a sunken fire pit, an outdoor shower, mondo grass, and a cabana. Inside, she introduced beams in the living room and basket lights in both the dining room and stairwell. The overarching inspiration for these elements, and indeed much of the home's aesthetic, stemmed from her profound appreciation for Costa Rica, particularly a luxury resort experience. She sought to replicate the finishes and textures observed there, incorporating details like polycarbonate panels with bamboo reeds in the cabana's skylights and the outdoor shower's design, echoing the resort's architectural features. The home's design philosophy emphasizes a minimal color scheme, which is then enriched by diverse textures to create a welcoming and serene atmosphere. Duncan views texture as a key element, allowing for a modern house to feel soft and organic rather than harsh or cold. This is evident in the juxtaposition of materials such as concrete for showers and floors with solid wood beams in the living room, showcasing a thoughtful layering of different elements. Beyond its architectural and textural considerations, the residence functions as a personal art gallery. Duncan highlights the 27-foot wall in the dining room, specifically designed to showcase a custom piece by local Nashville artist Cory Basil. She maintains a commitment to featuring art exclusively from local Nashville artists or those with whom she has a personal connection, or pieces acquired during her travels. This curated collection further enhances the home's unique character and personal significance. Ultimately, the home serves as Build Nashville's model house, demonstrating to potential clients the possibilities for creating their ideal living spaces. It exemplifies how thoughtful design, personal inspiration, and a focus on texture and natural elements can converge to produce a breathtaking and inviting environment that feels both contemporary and deeply personal. #homeDesign #interiorDesign #nashvilleHomes #costaRicanInfluence #zenLiving #modernSoftness #architecturalDesign #localArt #textureInDesign

Irene Gunter's inaugural large-scale project involved the interior architectural redesign of a family home in southwest London, a property that, despite its period-style facade, was only constructed in 2021. The design brief from the clients emphasized creating a home that was simultaneously family-friendly, comfortable, elegant, luxurious, fun, and informal. A key requirement was stylistic harmony throughout the residence, ensuring a cohesive flow between rooms while incorporating vibrancy and unexpected color in specific areas. The interior was intended to be uplifting and engaging, moving away from a bland, neutral aesthetic. Irene Gunter's approach centered on a carefully curated color palette predominantly featuring blues and greens, augmented by warmer tones. She stressed the importance of layering these colors to ensure they supported each other and maintained compatibility. Comfort was a paramount consideration, leading to meticulous selection and testing of furniture, such as dining chairs, to guarantee their suitability and durability. The designer collaborated with trusted craftsmen for custom pieces like sofas, relying on their proven track record. Among the standout spaces in the home is the formal sitting room, which features extensive paneling painted in a 'seductive light pink.' This choice was strategic, as the room is north-facing, and a simple white would have appeared flat. The pink hue was selected to imbue the space with warmth and comfort, creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming and elegant. The use of curved sofas and a rounded ottoman in this room not only enhances circulation but also addresses practical concerns related to young children, eliminating sharp corners. In contrast to the serene sitting room, the kitchen introduces a bold punch of navy blue, adding a dramatic element to the design. The high ceilings of the house were leveraged to create a sense of grandeur while simultaneously making the expansive space feel intimate and cozy. The design incorporated a blend of materials, including stone, tiles, and wood, to introduce texture and visual interest. A robust quartz was chosen for the work surfaces, complemented by a wood finish on the island and larder unit. Kit kat tiles on the splashback were used to introduce a Japanese aesthetic, further enriching the material palette. Olive green bar stools were strategically placed to connect the interior with the garden views, maintaining the theme of harmony. Pale wood was used to link the island and the larder unit, which was designed to resemble a free-standing piece. Reeded details on the larder unit and island echoed the pattern of the tiles, creating subtle connections throughout the space. The overall effect is a home that is inviting and warm, achieved through layered textures, playful colors, and a distinct personality, reflecting the designer's vibrant, colorful, and sophisticated style. #InteriorDesign #HouseDesign #LondonHome #NewBuild #ColorPalette #InteriorArchitecture #CustomFurniture #FamilyHome #ElegantInteriors

This article details how California-based designer Grace Lee-Lim transformed a large, open living room into three distinct functional areas without structural changes, addressing the client's need for a home office and two separate seating zones. The clients, a couple with a 3-year-old daughter, had recently moved into a new build with a 560-square-foot living room and initially expressed skepticism about fitting so much furniture. Lee-Lim overcame this by presenting multiple floor plans, ultimately gaining the clients' trust and full creative control over the project. The design strategy revolved around the strategic placement of furniture and specific design elements. Lee-Lim created a formal seating arrangement near the windows for quiet mornings, featuring swivel chairs to enjoy the outdoor view, a large coffee table for grounding the space, and wood stools for additional seating. A second lounge area was established near the fireplace, sectioned off by a cane room divider and furnished with a curved sectional and a circular table, fostering a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings. The third space was a home office, incorporating bookcases and desks. Lee-Lim's design aesthetic, which she describes as a blend of modern and Asian American styles, was a key factor in the client's choice. She intentionally moved away from stereotypical "oriental" designs, instead embracing a "Korean cool" look that integrates organic materials and earthy, neutral tones into simplified designs. Traditional Asian touches were woven throughout the space, such as bamboo seokjak (basket-like Korean bento boxes) and minhwa (folk paintings), which are displayed on shelves and in the office. This approach resonated deeply with the Korean American clients, who desired a space that reflected their heritage in an updated manner, reminiscent of their grandparents' California home filled with Korean artifacts and traditions. The color palette played a significant role in achieving the desired ambiance and heritage connection. The design started with Milton and King’s Cranes wallpaper, initially considered for an accent wall but ultimately used above the mantel to avoid overwhelming the space. The Midori colorway's green hue evoked a nostalgic feeling for the client, leading Lee-Lim to paint the room in a similar shade, Palmer Green by Benjamin Moore. This green is prevalent in Korean art and carries a warm, non-blue tone. Furthermore, an orange square in one of the rugs was described by the client as persimmon, a Korean national fruit, reinforcing the natural palette that seamlessly tied the room together. Additional elements were carefully selected to honor the clients' heritage. An onggi, a clay storage vessel for kimchi, serves as a decorative piece on the coffee table. Woven wood is featured in the cane divider and a sokuri basket from Damyang. Mandarin ducks, symbols of fidelity and beloved by the daughter, are depicted on a vintage silk screen and a porcelain sculpture on the bookcase. Through these thoughtful choices in paint, decor, and art, Lee-Lim successfully blended traditional Asian influences with modern design, creating a space that tells a beautiful story of cultural heritage and contemporary living. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LivingRoomDesign #SpacePlanning #AsianAmericanDesign #ModernDesign #CulturalHeritage #FurnitureArrangement