‘It’s much harder than it looks' – explore a Minneapolis new build home that feels like it's stood in place for centuries

A recently completed home in Medina, Minnesota, is situated within a 90-acre conservation easement and borders the Baker Park Reserve, a regional recreation area known for its wildlife, hiking trails, and a large lake. The designers focused on creating a structure that complements, rather than detracts from, the natural surroundings, characterized by native wetlands and meadows frequented by deer and sandhill cranes. Positioned on the community's highest point, the home offers panoramic westward views of the reserve and its prairie landscape. The builder, Blake Swanson of Swanson Homes, emphasized the importance of maximizing sunlight and scenic views, leading to the extensive use of windows. He and his wife, Lindsey Swanson of Carbon 6 Interiors, selected Marvin® windows and doors, specifically Casement windows and Swinging French doors from the Marvin Signature® and Elevate® collections. These choices were deemed perfect for achieving the home's desired light and airy aesthetic. The interior design incorporates a simple material palette of stone and wood, contrasting with bold matte black finishes for a modern yet warm ambiance. The great room, with its 12-foot ceilings and expansive windows, is a central feature. Design elements such as a rift white oak drop-down ceiling soffit in the great room, a limestone fireplace, and white oak wood flooring add warmth and texture to the space. These are complemented by windows and doors finished in Designer Black with matching Matte Black Hardware and light fixtures. Marvin's product lines offer various factory-stained or painted finishes and wood options, including Pine, Cherry, Douglas Fir, and Black Walnut. The interior's clean lines are further enhanced by sleek simulated divided lites, which break up the large glass panels and align with other architectural features. Lindsey Swanson opted for 7/8-inch wide simulated divided lites in a simple horizontal pattern, designed to guide the eye toward the horizon views. Several bedrooms feature different types of Marvin windows. The principal suite includes a trio of Elevate Casement windows, both stationary and operable, framing the landscape views. One secondary bedroom, currently a home office, boasts a massive Ultimate Double Hung G2 Picture window, with its sleek simulated divided lites contributing to the modern architectural features. Another bedroom combines a Casement window with Awning windows above the bed, and its en suite bathroom is also illuminated by a large Casement window. The coherent design, utilizing wood and stone, prioritizes the natural landscape, making its views accessible from almost every part of the home. The decision to use Marvin products was driven by the desire for windows and doors that enhance both the architectural appeal and the natural setting of the residence. #ModernHome #PrairieLandscape #MinnesotaDesign #MarvinWindows #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalIntegration #InteriorDesign #WindowSelection #HomeBuilding

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

Katie and Jesse Kath, known for their design-build firm Jkath Design Build + Reinvent, embarked on an unexpected journey to construct their "forever home" in Minneapolis. Initially aiming for a renovation, their three-year search for the perfect property led them to pivot when Jesse discovered a wide lot with a small, old house for sale. Despite being unprepared, their offer was accepted, pushing them into the realm of new construction. The couple envisioned a modern Tudor that would accommodate their family of five in its current stage and seamlessly transition to a comfortable space for just the two of them in the future. Katie, who leads the company's interior design, emphasized thoughtful space utilization and an aesthetic that would endure. The resulting 4,000-square-foot home blends traditional and open-concept areas, featuring a formal dining room alongside a casual kitchen and living room. The living room is intentionally modest in size, designed for conversation rather than large-scale entertainment, allowing the saved square footage to be allocated to a highly desired sunroom. This sunroom, a favorite feature for the couple, boasts stackable vinyl windows that transform it into a screened porch, creating a versatile indoor-outdoor experience. Upstairs, an office provides future work-from-home flexibility, and most of the children's bedrooms include private bathrooms, a long-term luxury for when the children visit as adults. Katie's design approach leans towards sophistication, with a notable use of dark-stained, furniture-like built-ins crafted by Jesse or his cabinet shop team. These bespoke elements contribute to the home's unique character. Practicality is also a key aspect of the design; for instance, the pantry, equipped with a grab-and-go beverage fridge, a water bottle-filling faucet, and a built-in wall oven, has become a family favorite. The 10-foot-long quartz island in the kitchen provides ample seating and display space, while the living room features a cast-stone fireplace and a picture window designed to maximize future landscape views. The home incorporates several custom and functional details. The banquette area includes an alder wood bench built by Jesse, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship of Jkath Design Build + Reinvent. Oversized mercury glass pendants in the kitchen serve as a focal point. The pass-through pantry's storage cabinet is designed to resemble an antique heirloom, with reeded glass sliding doors for both aesthetics and functionality. The mudroom, a top request from their clients, features five integrated lockers behind massive built-in cabinet doors, along with a dedicated pet storage area for their dog, Otis. The powder room, designed around a classic floral trellis wallpaper, showcases details like crown molding and baseboards painted in Sherwin-Williams’s Green Onyx and polished nickel finishes. Further design highlights include the primary bath with natural stone tiles, a marble floor, and a custom alder vanity built by Jesse. The primary bedroom features a built-in display and storage unit in a previously dead corner, and the room is strategically placed for privacy. The upstairs laundry room, a welcome change for Katie, boasts hexagonal marble tile flooring and blue-gray cabinetry, creating a bright and functional space. A hall bath combines vintage charm with modern elements through unique tile flooring, a V-groove panel vanity, playful wallpaper, and sleek black accents. Charlie's bedroom incorporates antique elm as a feature wall, demonstrating a blend of character and practical application for client showcases. The exterior, a modern Tudor style, harmonizes with the established neighborhood, featuring oversize James Hardie panel siding, a metal and shingled roof, and black windows, with landscaping by Exterior Design Studio. The floor plan, initially sketched by Katie and Jesse, thoughtfully positions traditional spaces at the front and casual areas at the back, with a finished basement adding significant living space. This home epitomizes Jkath Design Build + Reinvent's philosophy of smart space utilization and timeless design. #HomeDesign #NewConstruction #ModernTudor #InteriorDesign #CustomBuiltIns #FamilyHome #MinneapolisRealEstate #JkathDesignBuild #SustainableDesign

Designer Krysta Gibbons, a principal at Minneapolis-based Kipling House Interiors, embarked on a unique challenge to construct a new home that would seamlessly blend with its historic neighborhood, mimicking the character of 100-year-old residences rather than appearing as a modern 'glass box.' When a grand estate in her neighborhood was demolished, creating six prime city lots, Gibbons seized the opportunity to build from the ground up after selling her own home. Her primary goal was to create a new construction that felt storied and soulful, making it indistinguishable from older homes in the area. Gibbons focused on creating a floor plan that optimized space for her family of five while emulating the interiors of the historic period. The kitchen design was central to this vision, with Gibbons noting that a vibrant kitchen aesthetic influences surrounding spaces. She drew inspiration from the historic mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, incorporating elements like floor-to-ceiling tiles, center table islands, and large hoods. A visit to La Mercerie restaurant in New York City, known for its timeless feel despite being relatively new, further inspired her approach to use textiles in muted colors and surfaces with worn patinas. She aimed for the entire house to evoke a sense of aged elegance, as if the fabric had faded and paint had yellowed, avoiding a 'too fresh' appearance. The home features a rich visual tapestry and vintage appeal beyond the kitchen, utilizing a palette of subdued colors such as lavender and deep green, checkerboard floors, antique furniture, and an extensive use of 16 different wallpapers throughout. Gibbons expressed a preference for surfaces to be wallpapered, paneled, plastered, or tiled over drywall, reinforcing the home's layered and textured aesthetic. To further embed a sense of history, she even left notes for future homeowners within the walls, envisioning an ongoing narrative for the house. Each room was designed with meticulous detail and a nod to functionality and aesthetic continuity. The kitchen features a marble-topped island that resembles an antique baker's table, cleverly concealing custom, millimeter-measured drawers for every kitchen tool. The butler's pantry, designed for effortless entertaining, integrates appliances seamlessly behind panels and uses antique mirror inserts to enhance light, creating a luminous yet functional space. A bonus pantry extends the kitchen's utility, providing an accessible area for guests and children, dressed in a soft color palette and a small-scale wallpaper. The great room, the sole entertaining space on the main floor, was designed to comfortably seat eleven without appearing over-furnished, incorporating repurposed vintage items and layered textures. A large Flemish mirror, a long-held possession, found its place above the fireplace, while the television is discreetly hidden. The formal dining room, positioned prominently from the front door, boasts a custom mural and reupholstered vintage chairs, aiming for a theatrical and romantic ambiance. The foyer and vestibule set a quiet yet distinctive tone with paneled walls and a salvaged 1800s gas lantern, respectively. The private spaces continue the home's theme of thoughtful design. The primary bedroom is a serene retreat with blue-gray tones, rust accents, and layered textures, designed for quiet relaxation. The primary bath features Swedish-inspired vanities and marble floors with a subtle lattice motif. The daughters' rooms include a cozy bed nook for privacy and a dedicated lounge area for the three sisters, designed to encourage interaction while providing personal space. Even the younger daughter's playful yet polished bathroom showcases clever use of materials, including salvaged tiles, and a purple grasscloth. Finally, a garden shed, initially presented as a tool shed, was transformed into a secret 'Swiftie headquarters' for the daughters, complete with hand-painted floors and a salvaged church pew, extending the home's personalized and imaginative design outdoors. #InteriorDesign #NewConstruction #HistoricHomes #MinneapolisArchitecture #KrystaGibbons #KiplingHouseInteriors #HomeDecor #CustomDesign #VintageAppeal

Designer Heather Peterson utilized her South Minneapolis family home as a creative laboratory to explore design concepts not yet ready for client projects. What began as a plan for a quick refresh during the pandemic evolved into a comprehensive overhaul involving her entire firm, fostering ideation and innovation among the team. Peterson aimed to showcase a more eclectic, spirited, and modern aesthetic compared to her typical client work, transforming her home into both a personal living space and a design portfolio piece. The main challenge involved designing for her own idiosyncratic tastes and integrating existing high-quality fixtures that she chose not to remove. The home, originally built in 2007, featured a 'modern Scandi' and 'contemporary A-frame' style, providing a strong foundation that Peterson and her team enhanced with rich colors, graphic shapes, and numerous vintage finds to infuse personality. The project also emphasized collaboration with local Minneapolis vendors, highlighting a 'love affair' with the city's talented and unique suppliers. The home spans 2,100 square feet, featuring 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The living room's layout presented a challenge due to multiple entry points and architectural quirks, including an off-center window and an odd structural element. Peterson addressed this by employing symmetry, leveraging vintage furniture, including a redwood burl coffee table inherited from her parents, to balance the space and add character. Adjacent to the living room is the versatile "Room of Requirement," named after the Harry Potter concept, which has served various functions such as a home office, Lego room, music room, and library. This space is currently a cozy flex area used for work, art, and family game nights. Peterson reinforced its cocoon-like ambiance with a custom brown paint, contrasting white elements, and ample storage to accommodate books, trinkets, and art. The dining room, central to the house with sightlines to several other areas, was designed to anchor the home’s aesthetic through a mix of colors, textures, and silhouettes. To add volume and prevent it from feeling like a mere pass-through, Peterson incorporated a large pendant light, an armoire, and artwork, complemented by cork wallcovering and an embroidered rug. In the kitchen, Peterson opted for a cosmetic facelift rather than an extensive renovation, satisfied with its existing layout and functionality. She transformed the space into a focal point of the first floor by applying a bold, 1970s-inspired green paint to the cabinetry and adding oversized ceramic knobs for a whimsical touch. A countertop lamp contributed to the ambiance, emphasizing Peterson's preference for varied lighting. The powder room was revitalized within its original structure, featuring a fresh coat of Farrow and Ball's Preference Red paint on the washstand-style sink and Sandberg's Raphael wallpaper, a long-loved choice that adds a magical feel to the small space. Theo’s room, for her eldest child, combines bold prints with a sophisticated navy and oxblood palette, using faux-wainscoting and a tall bed system to optimize the room's proportions. The primary bedroom, visible from multiple public areas, was designed for coziness and visual appeal, with paper-backed William Morris fabric on the walls, blending historical and modern elements. The room incorporates three florals and two patchworks, maintaining a dynamic yet cohesive look with a tight color palette. Eleri's room, for her daughter, despite its small size and upholstered goods, achieves visual interest and a calm atmosphere through subtle prints and a palette of dusty blues, greens, and mustard. The primary bathroom retains many original finishes, with strategic updates like Fireclay's rosemary tile, which, with its varied glaze, integrates seamlessly with the marble floor. Wicker accents add warmth, while red faucets introduce a lively element, with textiles completing the cohesive design. Heather Peterson Design is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and focuses on translating client tastes into personal, functional, and stylish homes, embracing diverse design styles and blending client preferences into cohesive designs. This home tour serves as a testament to Peterson’s design philosophy and her firm’s creative capabilities. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #EclecticStyle #MinneapolisDesign #HeatherPetersonDesign #VintageDecor #ColorPalette #RoomDecorating #HomeTour

The article explores the growing adoption of Virtual Reality (VR) platforms within the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry, highlighting how these tools revolutionize building design and collaboration. Traditionally, designers relied on Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to create 3D wireframes viewed on 2D screens. However, VR technology now allows clients, architects, contractors, and interior designers to virtually experience and walk through a structure before its physical construction. The article identifies three prominent VR platforms optimized for AEC: The Wild, InsiteVR (including its product Resolve), and IrisVR. These platforms facilitate collaborative design processes, enabling multiple users to interact with and edit virtual models in real-time. This real-time collaboration with sketching tools is noted to enhance the creative vision of a design, allowing for revisions and customizations, and providing a strong sense of presence without the need for physical construction. Key features of these VR platforms include dynamic editing tools such as annotation with pens, speech-to-text commands, customizable colors, and geometric shapes. These tools aid in iterating on design ideas and blueprints. The Wild, for instance, is integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud and is praised by users for its ease of use and powerful capabilities. IrisVR also allows users to import complex architectural 3D models and integrate with various 3D modeling software like Revit, Rhino, Sketchup, and Navisworks. It enables meeting hosts to guide participants through virtual walkthroughs, with freehand and spatially aware annotations that can be flagged and reviewed later. InsiteVR, also integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud, focuses on reducing late-stage construction errors through immersive coordination meetings. It allows remote users to gather within a 3D Building Information Model (BIM) to inspect, annotate, and revise models at any scale and from any perspective. The platform provides access to BIM metadata within the virtual environment, enabling detailed inspection of elements. Notably, Resolve prioritizes the Oculus Quest for rendering complex BIMs with up to 500 million polygons, addressing limitations often found in other AEC visualization platforms. Scale plays a significant role in the VR experience, allowing users to adjust their perspective from a 1:1 human scale to that of a skyscraper, offering unique insights into design aspects that might be overlooked on a 2D screen. Models themselves can also be scaled and precisely measured within the virtual environment. Environmental factors like the time of day can also be simulated, further enhancing the realism of the walkthroughs. Gensler, one of the world's largest architecture firms, utilizes 3D programs like Fuzor and IrisVR for design visualization and employs commercial game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine for high-quality rendering, lighting, animation, and model accuracy, moving beyond the often 'cartoony' appearance of traditional CAD software. Gensler also provides a mobile VR app, Gensler VR, which allows clients to view 360-degree panoramic computer models of their designs. The firm emphasizes that clients now expect highly detailed and complex 3D visualizations, which are considered superior to traditional physical models, though physical models are still produced for presentation purposes. #VirtualReality #AugmentedReality #MixedReality #AECIndustry #BuildingDesign #CollaborativeDesign #3DModeling #ArchitecturalVisualization #ConstructionTechnology

This blog post explores the redesign of a traditional Upstate New York farmhouse by the interior design firm White Arrow, led by Keren and Thomas Richter. The project focused on transforming a timeless residence into a sophisticated 'forever home' for empty-nester clients, prioritizing the enhancement of existing architectural details and finishes rooted in old-world millwork and craftsmanship. The designers aimed to create a home that never dates by blending traditional elements with contemporary sophistication, drawing inspiration from the Colonial style of the house and incorporating a modern farmhouse aesthetic. The redesign emphasizes preserving the home's long-standing history while introducing updated features. The entryway, for instance, showcases traditional wood paneling and a blue and white color scheme, complemented by a built-in bench and ample storage to maintain a welcoming and functional space. The design incorporates whimsical floral wallpaper and vintage patterns, such as gingham cushions and botanical prints, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The kitchen, designed as a contemporary yet sophisticated farmhouse kitchen, utilizes a cream and white palette to maximize light, balanced with rustic touches like wood bar stools, ceramics, and pleated pendant lights. Luxurious finishes, including a marble island and subway-tiled backsplash, contribute to a sense of heritage and timeless patina. The designers ensured the white kitchen avoided a clinical feel by integrating cream cabinets that seamlessly blend with original wood paneling and classic elements like a ceramic sink and brass hardware. The breakfast nook continues the cohesive design with built-in millwork and cabinetry, echoing the exterior's wood paneling. Furnishings are sparse, allowing the architectural details to provide character. A dark wood floor, an antique-style round dining table, rattan chairs, and a low purple pendant light complete this charming space. The formal dining room offers a more traditional feel, honoring the Colonial style with high ceilings, tall windows, heritage wallpaper, blue drapes, and an antique dining set. Subtle gold accents add luxury without being overly ornate. Nature-inspired patterns and textiles are a recurring theme, with botanical references woven throughout the home, including a Toile de Jouy wallpaper in the cozy living room. The living room features darker shades for a snug atmosphere, incorporating unexpected red accents in a painted dresser and pleated pendant light to add richness and sophistication. The designers integrated architectural salvage, custom millwork, bespoke upholstery, and a mix of vintage, antique, and contemporary pieces to create a richly layered and comfortable interior. The bedroom serves as a serene escape with muted yellow grasscloth walls and subtle blue accents, creating a colorful yet subdued scheme. A four-poster bed and coastal-inspired bedding blend tradition with understated elegance. The primary bathroom, a favorite of designer Keren Richter, was thoroughly redesigned to be light-filled and spacious, featuring custom millwork, a luxurious marble-clad walk-in shower, a statement soaking tub, and art-filled moments. The dressing room exemplifies the consistent use of built-in architectural details, showcasing custom millwork that connects with the home’s original finishes. The project also included the creation of a new pantry, laundry, and a home office with an en-suite lounge. The guest bathroom features whimsical clover-printed wallpaper, balanced with cream wood paneling and vintage accents, illustrating the designers' ability to infuse intricate patterns without overwhelming the space. The overall design successfully refreshes a period home while preserving its inherent character and historical charm. #FarmhouseDesign #UpstateNewYork #EmptyNesters #TraditionalHome #HeritageDesign #InteriorRedesign #ColonialStyle #ModernFarmhouse #TimelessDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #CustomMillwork

The article explores how a newly constructed home in Utah was transformed into a characterful and cozy living space, despite the typical challenges of new builds often lacking a lived-in feel. Interior designer Alex Adamson was involved from the planning stages, aiming to instill warmth and character into the modern structure. The design draws inspiration from a nostalgic New England style and colonial architecture, incorporating thoughtful detailing to create a timeless aesthetic. The living room exemplifies this approach, designed as a comfortable and familiar space. Alex Adamson explains that infusing warmth and character into a new build, which can often feel sterile, was a primary challenge. To overcome this, she drew inspiration from the client's childhood home and neighborhood in Maryland, integrating nostalgic elements through custom millwork, classic wallpaper, and antique fireplace mantels. The inclusion of vintage furniture further enhances the aged, storied feel of the room. A golden grasscloth wallcovering, suggested by Adamson late in the build process, became a favored feature, along with a custom-designed rug. For the dining room, the family, consisting of eight members, needed an extra-long dining table to accommodate their frequent hosting of guests. Since a vintage piece of the required scale was not available, a custom table was designed to replicate antique details, ensuring it fit seamlessly into the space while maintaining a timeless appeal. The overall spatial planning was crucial for this forever home, with rooms designed to be spacious and flexible enough for a growing family and future generations, particularly for large holiday gatherings. The kitchen, central to an entertaining home, features a large stainless steel and brass Lacanche range and double islands. One island is specifically dedicated to seating, serving as a family gathering spot for daily meals, reminiscent of a classic farmhouse work table. Key elements in the kitchen, such as copper pots on a pan rail, glazed white cabinetry, and a classic white tiled backsplash, were chosen to evoke a sense of history and tradition, echoing the homeowner's East Coast upbringing. An adjoining colorful pantry, with rich blue cabinetry and walnut counters, adds both visual interest and practical functionality, designed for everyday use while complementing the owner's blue and white plate collection. Instead of a conventional home office, a cozy, wood-paneled library and music room were created, adding significant character to the new build. This space was intentionally designed with a round table and comfortable seating to foster an inviting atmosphere, moving away from a traditional desk setup. The children's areas also reflect this emphasis on coziness, with a playroom functioning as a library and chess area, featuring a niche for a sofa nestled among bookshelves to create a tucked-in, warm reading spot. The primary bedroom was designed as a sanctuary for the parents of six children, featuring a calming palette of warm buttery cream and soft neutrals. A large antique rug, an antique fireplace mantel, and a distinctive crossed four-poster bedframe contribute to the room's importance and tranquil ambiance. Soft furnishings like floral-printed Roman shades and linen drapes add layers of comfort. An adjoining dressing room, designed to be light and airy with sheer drapes and a custom scalloped ottoman, helps maintain a clutter-free environment. One of the girls' bedrooms utilizes a tone-on-tone approach with varied patterns, including a Robert Kime floral wallpapered ceiling and Les Indiennes hand-blocked duvet, tied together with a soft green rug to create a pretty yet sophisticated look. The designer expressed satisfaction with achieving a timeless feel for the new build and the positive client reactions, particularly from the children, highlighting the rewarding experience of balancing old and new elements and working with various vendors and craftsmen. #InteriorDesign #NewBuild #HomeTour #CharacterfulHomes #UtahHomes #NostalgicDecor #CustomMillwork

This article details the renovation of a family home in Minneapolis, conceptualized by Victoria Sass of Prospect Refuge Studio, with architect Sarah Nymo. The design philosophy was inspired by a collection of cookbooks, aiming to transform ordinary moments into something special through thoughtful design. The homeowners, a family with two young children, desired a home capable of comfortably hosting a party of eight, reflecting their travels and Midwestern roots while celebrating everyday events. The renovation involved several clever adjustments to the floor plan to create more spacious and functional areas. The mudroom was slightly reduced in size, doorways were widened, and the kitchen sink area was extended by six inches. Cabinets were ingeniously tucked beneath an adjacent staircase wall to accommodate an island with seating. These subtle changes were designed to provide just enough additional space for hosting larger gatherings without a complete overhaul. The design intentionally blurred the lines between new additions and existing features, incorporating elements that evoke a sense of history and permanence, making it difficult to discern the chronological order of renovations. A significant aspect of the renovation is the use of old-school details to mask new installations. For instance, new cabinets installed under the staircase were crafted to appear antique, complete with dark wood and semi-overlay doors, a style often removed from modern kitchens. To ensure visual cohesion, a soffit was extended across the room, mirroring the one necessitated by the tucked-away cabinetry. Marble trim around the range hood and walls was chosen to look as though it had been in the kitchen for decades, contributing to the timeless aesthetic and inviting questions about its origin. Custom tile work plays a central role in personalizing the home. The kitchen backsplash, designed by Kristen Falkirk, features unique tiles abstracting the contours of Minnesota lakes, a subtle nod to the family's home state. This artistic collaboration highlights the studio's preference for working with artisans who bring their creative interpretation to the design process, resulting in bespoke elements that are both aesthetically pleasing and rich with personal significance. The dining area was enhanced with new paneling and paint, transforming a hutch into a more defined alcove. A significant investment was made in a chandelier from Atelier de Troupe, which serves as a breathtaking focal point visible from the front door and upstairs. The mudroom received a bee-themed Jennifer Shorto wallpaper, symbolizing the owner’s farm upbringing and the space's busy nature. To protect the delicate wallpaper from wear and tear, paneling was installed partway up the wall. The mudroom also features a highly functional drop zone with removable drawers for organizing children's schoolwork and a magnetic wood veneer wall for important papers. The powder room is a highlight of nostalgic design, featuring a vintage-inspired Water Monopoly sink, a matching blue tankless toilet, and needlepoint-esque floor tile. This unique tiling subtly incorporates four heart shapes, each representing a family member, serving as a heartfelt and enduring snapshot of the home's renovation journey. This renovation, therefore, weaves together practicality, personal history, and artistic craftsmanship to create a home that is both functional and deeply meaningful to its occupants. #HomeRenovation #KitchenDesign #CustomTile #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #MinneapolisDesign #NostalgicDecor #MudroomMakeover #PowderRoomDesign

This article details a Minneapolis home renovation project undertaken by Victoria Sass of Prospect Refuge Studio, in collaboration with architect Sarah Nymo. The renovation drew inspiration from a collection of six cookbooks, reflecting the homeowners' travels and Midwestern roots, and focusing on making everyday moments feel more special. The design philosophy centered on subtly expanding living spaces and incorporating nostalgic yet refined details to accommodate a family of four with frequent guests, aiming for a "party of eight" capacity. The kitchen and dining areas underwent strategic floor plan adjustments to achieve more breathing room. The mudroom was slightly reduced in size, doorways were widened, and the sink area was bumped out by six inches. To create an island with seating, some cabinets were cleverly tucked under an adjacent staircase wall. The design team intentionally used millwork that appeared antique, with dark wood and semi-overlay doors, to create a sense of timelessness. A new soffit was introduced in the kitchen to streamline the appearance of the ceiling over the range hood and sink, complemented by marble trim that evokes a sense of historical presence, making it difficult to discern new additions from original features. Custom tile work plays a significant role in abstracting memories and adding personal touches to the home. Kristen Falkirk was commissioned to design the kitchen backsplash, with the primary instruction to create squares with various shapes. Falkirk's creative interpretation involved tracing the contours of Minnesota lakes, resulting in a collection of organic-looking tiles that serve as subtle reminders of the homeowners' connection to their home state. This artistic collaboration highlights the studio's preference for working with artisans who bring unique interpretations to the design. The dining room's hutch was significantly upgraded with new paneling, hinges, and paint, transforming it into a more substantial alcove. A significant portion of the lighting budget was allocated to an Atelier de Troupe chandelier over the dining table, chosen for its visual impact as the first element seen upon entering the home and descending the stairs. This investment was justified by its ability to create a breathtaking focal point. The mudroom features bee-themed Jennifer Shorto wallpaper, a nod to one owner's farm upbringing and a playful reference to the space's bustling activity. To protect the delicate wallpaper from children, paneling was installed partway up the wall. The mudroom's design prioritizes flexibility and organization, including a large cabinet for winter gear and a drop zone with removable drawers specifically sized for 8.5-by-11 inch papers, allowing for easy sorting of art projects and homework. A magnetic wood veneer wall offers a practical spot for important documents. Finally, the powder room provides a nostalgic and whimsical experience, featuring a vintage-inspired Water Monopoly sink and a matching blue tankless toilet. The needlepoint-esque floor tile, chosen for its crafty and Midwestern aesthetic, incorporates a subtle detail: four heart shapes, each representing a family member. This hidden design element serves as a personal "snapshot in time" of the family at the point of the renovation, adding a layer of sentimental value to the overall design. #HomeRenovation #KitchenDesign #CustomTile #InteriorDesign #MinneapolisHomes #BeforeAndAfter #MudroomDesign #PowderRoom #DesignInspiration

This article details the extensive renovation of a Victorian house in London by Charly and Jonny, a couple with two young children. The house had remained untouched for nearly four decades, presenting a significant challenge that the family embraced with a desire to blend beauty with utility and avoid conventional design trends. They enlisted the help of Smith Brooke Architects and interior designer Emma Ainscough to create a home that is both personal and highly functional. A central aim of the renovation was to ensure that every room was utilized, eschewing the idea of spaces reserved only for special occasions. The couple sought to maintain a sense of playfulness while achieving visual cohesion, exploring various patterns and colors throughout the home. Although they preserved and reinstated many original Victorian features, such as cornices, sash windows, and high ceilings, they also made several bold design decisions. One significant change involved replacing an old, impractical conservatory at the rear of the house. Instead of a ground-floor kitchen extension, a side extension was built to accommodate a new entrance for practical items like bikes and strollers. A lower-ground-floor extension featuring elegant arches was also added, reflecting Charly's preference for rounded architecture and a softer aesthetic, drawing inspiration from English country homes. This design choice was complemented by other subtle elements, such as a curved garden path. Architect Lucy Brooke proposed relocating the kitchen from the new extension to the upper floor, creating a combined kitchen-dining area by knocking through existing spaces. The new extension now houses the sitting room, study, utility room, and playroom, all connected by floor-to-ceiling glass doors. This strategic reallocation of space prompted Emma Ainscough to carefully consider how to integrate the new and old sections of the house harmoniously. She aimed to differentiate the spaces while ensuring they remained visually connected, resulting in a refined color palette in the sitting room alongside vibrant touches, such as powder blue cabinetry in the playroom. The home is filled with thoughtful details that contribute to its warmth and softness. Examples include zellige tiles and antique pendant lights in the kitchen, and a checkerboard countertop in the utility room, a recurring pattern that also appears in the sitting room's rug. The design prioritized functionality but also focused on the desired emotional feel of each room, allowing for creative material choices beyond purely utilitarian finishes. Family-friendly decorative elements are evident throughout, such as a durable, patterned, and striped sofa in the kitchen area, designed to withstand daily family life. The study features subtly patterned wallpaper contrasting with a modern frameless window. In the children’s bedrooms, space under the eaves was cleverly utilized to create storage and whimsical reading nooks. Unique, custom-made Delft tiles around the bathroom entrance depict personal symbols like ice cream cones, bears, and even Queen Elizabeth II, adding a touch of patriotism. A repurposed Neptune library cabinet from their previous home was integrated into the dressing nook for storing bags and shoes. Ultimately, the renovation represents a significant step forward in the family's design journey, reflecting increased confidence and a new stage in their lives. The bold and considered approach to combining old and new elements, along with a focus on both beauty and utility, has resulted in a charming and deeply personal family home. #VictorianHouseRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeTransformation #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalRenovation #KitchenDesign #PlayroomDesign #CustomTiles #ModernVictorian

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

The author recounts the experience of moving into a century-old house in Newton, built in 1900, with a blended family. Upon exploring the dark basement days after moving in, a large metal container was discovered. Initially mistaken for an old boiler, it was found to contain two oversized, bound volumes once the lid was pried open. These volumes were not the hoped-for Timothy Leary journals, but rather ledger pages detailing a decade of financial records from St. Gregory The Theologian Seminary, which had occupied the house from 1976 to 1989. The ledgers meticulously recorded donations, cash disbursements, mortgage payments, retirement funds, and household expenses. The author was already aware of the house's colorful past, including its time as a seminary for Melkite seminarians and its prior occupancy by Timothy Leary in 1960 and 1961. Leary, then a Harvard psychology professor, began his LSD experimentation while living in the home. Despite this intriguing history, the family was primarily drawn to the house for its spaciousness, which was ideal for their blended family of six children, ensuring each child would have their own space. The volumes provided a tangible connection to the past inhabitants, prompting the author to ponder Leary's activities within the very rooms they now occupied. While the house's history served as an occasional hobby, the immediate needs of the property, such as plumbing, electrical, and critter control issues, demanded more frequent attention. Despite these ongoing maintenance challenges, the family actively lived and created new memories in the home. They hosted Thanksgiving gatherings with all six children and enjoyed Sunday barbecues on the porches, which had been added by the seminary as prayer chapels. These experiences fostered a sense of being more than just owners; the author felt a growing responsibility as a caretaker of the house's rich history, connecting their own narrative with those of Leary and the seminarians. The historical connection deepened when an elderly man in clerical attire appeared at their front door, identifying himself as a former resident from his seminary days. He was given a tour, during which he remarked on how different the house looked yet how familiar it felt. He recognized his old bedroom, the quirky upstairs bathroom, and was particularly struck by seeing the ledgers. Upon realizing the faint blue pen lines were his own handwriting from decades prior, he declined the author's offer to take them, stating they belonged there. He left behind a stack of photos from the seminary's early days and shared a humorous anecdote about a problematic stovetop that, to the author's amusement, continued to be an issue. After a decade of living in the house and building a family within its walls, the author and their husband are contemplating selling. This upcoming change is described as bittersweet, with the realization that their family is just one more set of temporary inhabitants in the house's long and continuous story. The house, along with its layered history, will eventually be passed on to new occupants, continuing its cycle of hosting diverse lives and experiences. #HistoricHome #HouseHistory #NewtonMassachusetts #TimothyLeary #MelkiteSeminary #FamilyLife #HomeOwnership #PersonalNarrative #RealEstate

This article details the transformation of a 1990s Atlanta home by interior designer Sally Wilkinson, whose aesthetic was significantly influenced by her time working in London. Wilkinson's philosophy, which values a slight sense of imbalance for more interesting and dynamic design, guided the remodel. The original house featured heavy stone, brick, and various wooden beams, along with an intricate iron staircase, presenting a study in contrasts that Wilkinson sought to harmonize. The clients, a retired couple, desired a home that would function effortlessly both as an elegant and intimate space for their daily lives and an expansive retreat for family and guests. A key objective was to ensure every room had a clear purpose, making the entire house cohesive rather than cavernous. To achieve this, Wilkinson began by softening the architectural features to improve the sense of flow throughout the home. Pine floors were stripped to achieve a paler, more natural finish, contributing to a lighter, more contemporary feel. In the kitchen and breakfast room areas, a white slurry wash was applied to the stone and brickwork, effectively harmonizing previously discordant elements and creating a more unified aesthetic. The adjoining sitting room was enhanced with new iron-framed glass doors, which not only flood the space with natural light but also establish a seamless connection to the outdoor pool and garden, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Wilkinson and her clients meticulously defined the purpose of each room. A former pantry was reimagined into an elegant study for the wife, providing a dedicated and sophisticated workspace. One of the reception rooms was converted into a snug, designed to serve as a private retreat for the couple, offering a cozy and intimate space away from the main entertaining areas. The sitting room adjacent to the kitchen was conceived for breezy, alfresco-inspired entertaining, suitable for gatherings with a connection to the outdoors. Conversely, the front-facing sitting room was given a richer, cozier ambiance, making it ideal for cooler months. To enhance the front-facing sitting room's warmth, tobacco-hued raffia walls were introduced, providing a textural backdrop for the display of art and ceramics. Wilkinson also incorporated benches and stools that offer dual functionality, serving as additional seating when needed. The designer's approach extended to incorporating antiques to imbue the home with a sense of history and soul, which was crucial given the clients' desire for a fresh start in the property. The curated collection of antiques spans various continents and eras, including a 19th-century French enfilade in the snug for game storage, a Dutch vitrine cabinet in the sitting room for displaying family heirlooms, and Italian and English pieces that contribute a patina, suggesting a home that has naturally evolved over time. Art played an equally important role in defining the interiors. Botanical prints by Kate Friend in the entrance hall established the color palette for the adjoining rooms, demonstrating that art was a foundational element rather than an afterthought. Wilkinson also sourced bold oil paintings for the bathrooms and kitchen, which subtly elevated the relaxed, organic aesthetic of these spaces. She appreciated the balance between the vibrancy of the paintings and the earthiness of elements like an étagère. Landscape designer Alec Michaelides skillfully brought the clients' vision for the garden to life, and Wilkinson's interiors reciprocated this connection through elements such as vintage botanical fabrics, antique Turkish rugs, and richly tactile finishes. Her inclination for contrast is evident throughout the home, exemplified by teal-hued doors in the dining room that create a striking dialogue with toffee linen slipcovered chairs, and canary yellow corduroy headboards in a bedroom that pop against slightly acidic green walls. This careful layering of textures, colors, and historical elements resulted in a home that feels characterful, personal, and perfectly suited to the clients' lifestyle, highlighting Wilkinson's belief that imperfection can lead to more interesting design. #InteriorDesign #HomeRemodel #AtlantaHome #SallyWilkinson #VintageFurniture #ArtDecor #TexturalFinishes #Antiques #ArchitecturalFeatures #RoomPurpose

This blog post highlights a newly constructed, multi-million dollar residence located at 1222 Mississauga Road in the affluent Lorne Park neighbourhood of Mississauga. Priced at $6.9 million, this property is designed not merely for living but to offer a comprehensive wellness experience, setting it apart from conventional homes. The article details the property's significant features, emphasizing its integration of luxury amenities with daily living spaces. Upon entering the residence, guests are greeted by a dramatic 23-foot Neolith stone wall, establishing a tone of sophistication. The entrance leads into expansive, open-concept living and dining areas, characterized by abundant natural light, built-in display cabinetry, and integrated ceiling speakers. The main level further includes a thoughtfully designed family room, which features a Regency-style gas fireplace, providing a focal point for gatherings, complemented by extensive custom storage solutions. The kitchen is presented as a culinary haven, equipped with smart and premium appliances from renowned brands such as SubZero for refrigeration and Wolf for its induction cooktop with dual ovens. Additional features include a panelled Miele dishwasher, a built-in coffee machine, a pot-filler faucet, a warming drawer, and dual sinks. The kitchen's aesthetic is enhanced by a modern chandelier and layered under-cabinet and base strip lighting, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The primary suite, located upstairs, boasts 12.6-foot ceilings and cove lighting, contributing to a spacious and tranquil atmosphere. It includes a walk-in closet secured with an electronic lock and a built-in safe. The accompanying ensuite bathroom is a sanctuary for relaxation, offering dual vanities, a deep soaking tub, heated floors, and a steam shower with massaging jets. The upper level also accommodates three additional bedrooms, each featuring its own ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, with one bedroom providing a private balcony. The lower level of the home is specifically designed as a comprehensive wellness and recreation space. It houses both SaunaCore Infrared and traditional saunas, a steam room equipped with rain and massage showerheads, a dedicated spa vanity, and a changing area. For fitness enthusiasts, there is a mirrored gym with anti-slip floors and a built-in TV mount. This entire basement area benefits from natural light, heated floors, ceiling speakers, and a fireplace, ensuring a warm, inviting, and serene environment, effectively transforming the home into a private wellness retreat. The property, a custom-built residence, is a first-time listing and represents a unique opportunity for elevated living within a desirable community. #LuxuryRealEstate #MississaugaHomes #WellnessRetreat #HomeDesign #SpaAmenities #DavidSmallDesigns #SmartHome #LornePark #CustomBuilt

This article details the renovation of a 19th-century Newton home, transforming it into a luxurious yet family-friendly space for a family of six. The homeowners, moving from a condo, were drawn to the original charm of the 1848 abode, including its authentic millwork, curved staircase, and glass-etched double front doors. Their vision was to infuse the historic property with a fresh, modern energy while preserving its inherent character. Interior designer Cara Fineman spearheaded the "glow up" primarily focusing on the first floor. This involved minor modifications to improve livability in the kitchen, pantry, and three bathrooms. Key updates included new countertops, tile backsplashes, brass hardware, and modern fixtures. Notably, the existing custom Kochman Reidt + Haigh kitchen cabinetry was in excellent condition, necessitating only a fresh coat of wispy white paint. The adjacent pantry and wet bar received a more dramatic makeover with bold new color schemes on existing cabinets, complemented by Aux Abris grasscloth and Ferrick Mason wallcoverings, along with linen window treatments, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fineman's design strategy for the study, family, and living rooms centered on integrating soft furnishings crafted from family-friendly textiles and contemporary lighting. In the family room, a spacious and plush sectional, ottoman, and lounge chairs were installed to create a comfortable gathering space. The living room now features a sleek game table made of lacquered swirl resin, designed to encourage board games and social activities. A significant design element across the communal spaces was the strategic incorporation of color and pattern, particularly through wallpaper, fulfilling the clients' desire for a vibrant and dynamic interior. The home boasts a sophisticated yet serene atmosphere, achieved through a diverse material palette including silk, grasscloth, antique brass, velvet, and rattan. A personalized sanctuary was created for the mother of the house in the first-floor study. This feminine space, designed for quiet reading, features an opal wall color, warm artwork, and bookshelves filled with books, accompanied by an overstuffed sofa for relaxation. Despite having four young children under the age of six, the first floor was intentionally designed to feel luxurious and mature without being overly precious or inaccessible to the kids. The design philosophy emphasized materials that were not easily damaged and the rehabilitation of existing elements rather than complete replacement, such as using natural fibers and updating existing cabinetry. This approach allowed for the preservation of the home's originality while adapting it to the contemporary needs of a young family. The playroom, adjacent to the boys' bedroom, features a lively Serengeti wallpaper, beanbags, storage baskets, and wall shelves, designed to be age-appropriate yet durable for a growing family. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NewtonHome #HistoricHome #FamilyLiving #ModernDesign #LuxuryInteriors #ResidentialDesign

This article features a high-end, newly constructed townhouse in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn, designed by Dumbo-based CWB Architects. The clients, fans of modern design, requested a home that would integrate traditional exterior details to blend with the historic neighborhood, yet feature a distinctly contemporary interior. The 5,600-square-foot, five-story structure was designed to overcome the common challenges of traditional row houses, such as dark and narrow spaces, by incorporating innovative architectural solutions. Brendan Coburn of CWB Architects addressed the client's desire for a home that didn't feel like a typical row house by designing a corner building that maximizes natural light from windows on three sides and a skylight. A key feature is a double-height space that vertically connects the two lower floors, enhancing the feeling of openness. The main staircase, with open risers, coils through the center of the 24-by-52-foot house, serving as a central element that unites the different levels. The layout includes a garden level with a family room and kitchen, an elegant parlor floor housing a music room, two upper floors dedicated to family bedrooms, dressing rooms, and a home office, and a penthouse TV room with a roof deck offering skyline views. The cellar provides a playroom for children, and a separate 16-by-20-foot structure in the garden includes an in-law apartment and a garage. Ejeanne Interior Design of Monmouth Beach, N.J., selected the furnishings for the interior spaces. While previous CWB projects in the neighborhood utilized a traditional 'kit of parts' to mimic 19th-century aesthetics, this townhouse expresses a more modern sensibility. This is evident in the design of two bay windows – one on the side off the parlor floor and a two-story bay at the rear – which feature steel construction and a more modernist vocabulary. The entry vestibule maintains a typical typology, but the interior doors are flush, made of quarter-sawn white oak with modern hardware. Horizontal boards line the entry hall wall, extending through the entire stair tower to create a continuous, textured element that visually connects the house from top to bottom. Specific interior details include a harmonious square music room on the parlor level with floor-to-ceiling windows and radiant heated six-inch engineered flooring with walnut veneer. The formal living room/dining area is distinguished by a large oriel window, which is a bay window that does not reach the ground, featuring both fixed and operable panes. This level also includes a butler's pantry and a powder room. The double-height, 18-by-18-foot family room, adorned with precast concrete paneling around the fireplace, is a central gathering space. The open kitchen features painted wood cabinetry and Caesarstone countertops, complemented by mudroom closets that match the house's doors and a large pantry that reduces the need for extensive upper cabinetry. Vertical slats on the landings of the staircase enhance safety and add an interesting visual element. The entire second floor is dedicated to a master suite, complete with his and hers dressing rooms and a home office. The master bathroom, at the client's request, includes two windows but no tub. The rear facade features a double-height glass wall that projects a few feet outwards. The modernist patio and planting design for the garden, which includes the separate carriage house, were created by Dumbo-based landscape architect Joanna Pertz. The overall design successfully marries historical exterior compliance with contemporary interior functionality and aesthetics, reflecting the clients' modern design preferences within a traditional urban context. #CobbleHill #TownhouseDesign #ModernInterior #CWBArchitects #HistoricDistrict #BrooklynHome #LuxuryRealEstate #InteriorRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign