Mission reborn: Clayfield House

Jay Deputy embarked on a journey to update his late parents' home in Seaford, Delaware, transforming it into a personal retreat while preserving its inherent character. The single-story, red brick Colonial-style house, built in 1968, held significant sentimental value, having been purchased by his parents, John and Lillian, in 1970. Deputy, who describes himself as a lifelong collector of homes and furnishings, ranging from a 13,000-square-foot mansion in St. Paul, Minnesota, to a New York City loft and a centuries-old farmhouse in North Wilmington, viewed the Seaford property as an ideal downstate getaway. He appreciated its "human-scaled" rooms, conducive to intimate gatherings of six to eight people. Upon inheriting the house after his mother's passing in 2009, Deputy's initial focus was on structural stability. This involved addressing termite damage, installing a new heating and air conditioning system, and restoring the front porch columns. He then furnished the porch with rockers and casual seating, allowing for enjoyment of the hydrangeas. Simultaneously, he simplified the yard and garden to better suit a second home, acknowledging it as an ongoing project despite removing several trees. Inside, Deputy concentrated his decorative efforts on the entertaining areas: the formal living room, library, dining room, and sunroom, along with the master and guest bedrooms. Notably, he left the kitchen largely untouched, preserving its original Corian countertops, plank cabinets, and wrought-iron hinges, deeming it "still a very serviceable kitchen." The library, which served as a family room during his childhood, underwent a significant transformation. Deputy removed dark paneling, painting the walls and fireplace a soft celadon green, a color inspired by a floral needlepoint rug inherited from his grandmother. He sourced matching Baker settees, reupholstering them in a claret-and-ivory toile fabric by Brunschwig & Fils, featuring pheasants, hunting dogs, and woodland flora. Accents of black, including a painted tole tray, silk chandelier shades, and a cocktail table, complement the room's color scheme. A 19th-century Empire-inspired mahogany bookcase displays antique volumes and Chinese porcelains, subtly reflecting the room's palette, flanked by 18th-century Chippendale chairs. Deputy's decorating style, while more formal, shares a common appreciation for Chippendale furniture with his mother, who preferred a country aesthetic. He describes the mahogany sideboard in the dining room as an artful reproduction, adorned with vintage Waterford crystal and heirloom decanters holding a collection of rare Scotches. The full restoration of his St. Paul mansion, which took a decade, provided him with valuable hands-on experience in plastering and carpentry. For the Seaford project, he hired out much of the work but personally handled tasks he enjoyed, such as painting, often accompanied by Bach on his iPod. The formal dining room features a bold blue-and-white Brunschwig & Fils wallpaper depicting birds and vines. Chippendale-style dining chairs by Maison Jansen and mid-century reproductions of a dining table and breakfront by Henredon, inherited from his aunt, complete the space. An antique Chinese rug from his grandmother and 18th-century gilt-wood sconces with their original mirrors add historical depth. In the sunroom, Deputy refreshed his mother's whitewashed wicker furniture with black paint and claret-and-cream toile cushions. Unmatched Asian-influenced chandeliers were unified with a glossy crimson enamel, and lemon trees and leafy plants contribute to a tropical atmosphere. The formal living room showcases his grandmother’s camelback sofa, upholstered in its original shimmering gold silk, complemented by cream walls, coral wing chairs, and an Oriental carpet. The room also features a 1740 partner's desk, a mahogany desk with flame finials crafted in Delaware, and 18th-century commodes serving as end tables. A magnificent, thinly cut stone screen from China behind the sofa underscores his passion for collecting. Deputy emphasizes the sentiment behind these items, stating, "Things we find, things that have age, things we collect have a certain weightedness," and cherishes the stories embedded within them. #HomeRenovation #InheritedHome #InteriorDesign #SeafordDelaware #FamilyHeirlooms #ChippendaleStyle #HistoricHomes #HomeDecor #PersonalizedSpace

Los Angeles County outlines a streamlined rebuilding process for residents affected by wildfires, establishing one-stop permit centers to assist with navigation. Construction cannot commence until debris removal is complete, but residents are encouraged to apply for necessary permits as soon as they are ready. A guide titled "The Road to Rebuilding" helps residents understand the steps involved in the complex rebuilding process after a wildfire, including an animated video overview. Key rebuilding highlights include scheduling appointments at one-stop permit centers, applying for building or fire debris removal permits, learning about like-for-like rebuild options, obtaining temporary housing permits, and utilizing mapping resources. Information is also available for navigating manufactured and factory-built homes. The article addresses frequently asked questions related to fire rebuilds, covering topics such as what to expect, permitting timelines, and fees. A "like-for-like" rebuild, as defined by the Zoning Code, involves a replacement structure that is the same size, in the same location, and for the same use as the previous one. In the Palisades Fire affected area, modifications that do not increase floor area, size, height, or building footprint by more than 10% are allowed. In the Eaton Fire affected area, modifications can increase these aspects by up to 10% or 200 square feet, whichever is greater. These structures can have different internal floor plans or be smaller and do not need to comply with current Zoning Code requirements but must adhere to current Building, Fire, and Health and Safety Codes. The timeline for rebuilding is not definitive, with applications for temporary housing and like-for-like rebuilds generally required within two years of an emergency declaration. Extensions may be granted, but building permits expire if construction doesn't begin within 12 months. The duration of the permitting process varies based on project complexity, with expedited services for like-for-like rebuilds and pre-approved plans. More complex projects will still be expedited, with initial reviews within 10 business days and rechecks within 5 business days for Regional Planning. Additional agency approvals, such as a water agency "Will-Serve" letter, are usually required before a building permit can be issued. Minimum submittal requirements include one application with architectural plans and property ownership information to initiate review, with additional materials like structural and energy plans requested later. A debris removal permit is only necessary if homeowners opt out of the government-assisted program. Reusing existing foundations requires evaluation by an engineering consultant, ensuring the foundation meets current building code requirements after thorough testing and forensic analysis. Demolition permits are not required for those in the government's debris removal program if the foundation remains. The article also addresses specific code requirements, including exemptions and waivers for certain like-for-like rebuild projects in the Eaton Fire area, such as electric vehicle-ready infrastructure, cool roof requirements, graywater-ready plumbing systems, and low impact development (LID) requirements for buildings constructed before 2009. LID requirements are not waived in the Palisades area. Guidance is provided on cross-lot drainage and the process for determining previous square footage and available construction plans. Pre-approved building plans are available for homeowners, and solar panels are no longer mandatory but homes must be solar-ready. Fire sprinklers are required by current codes, and while new buildings must be electric-ready, gas appliances are still permitted. Wood-burning chimneys are now allowed for fire rebuild projects. Information on property tagging ("Yellow" or "Red" tags) provides details on access restrictions and safety concerns, with contact information for local Building and Safety District Offices and One-Stop Permit Centers. Temporary housing, including RVs, manufactured homes, or mobilehomes, is allowed with proper connections, and approvals expire two years after the emergency declaration, with possible extensions. Manufactured and factory-built homes can serve as permanent replacement structures if they meet fire-resistant construction requirements and are installed on a continuous concrete footing. Building new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) is permitted as temporary housing while the primary dwelling is rebuilt, with expedited permitting and compliance with current codes. Utility-related questions cover septic systems, sewer connections, and undergrounding utilities. Existing septic systems can be reused if in good working order for like-for-like rebuilds, but upgrades are required if wastewater flow increases. Connection to county sewer lines is mandated if a property is within 200 linear feet of a sewer main and repair of a septic system is needed. Homeowners are responsible for the cost of lateral connections to underground utilities. The County supports the creation of community-driven sewer districts and clarifies that Public Health Department management keeps all inspectors informed of changes regarding septic, cesspool, and sewer systems. Incorporating greywater systems is encouraged for environmental benefits, though specific policies for new ADUs are still developing. Regarding swimming pools and spas, temporary fencing is required if existing barriers are damaged, and debris removal from pools is covered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers if within the ash footprint. Draining pools to the sewer requires a permit and specific conditions, otherwise, private water haulers must be hired. The rights of new buyers are also addressed, clarifying that while temporary housing eligibility is tied to prior residency, expedited permitting is available to all within two years of the emergency declaration, regardless of property ownership changes. Lastly, contact information for one-stop locations and various rebuilding resources for different cities within Los Angeles County are provided, including links for FEMA assistance, disaster loans, tax relief, and insurance claims. #WildfireRecovery #RebuildingProcess #LAcountyPermits #TemporaryHousing #LikeForLikeRebuilds #BuildingCodes #SepticSystems #SewerConnections #DisasterAssistance

Chasitie and Mike Walden embarked on a journey to construct a new family home in Mission Hills, drawing inspiration from a unique house they encountered in Atlanta, Georgia. Their vision was realized over three years, culminating in a contemporary residence that skillfully integrates traditional elements, making it a comfortable retreat during the 2020 pandemic shutdown. The exterior, designed by Mark McHenry with McHenry Schaffer Architecture, features crisp white stucco juxtaposed with ashlar masonry, and steel-framed windows and doors are complemented by classic carriage-house lanterns, blending modern aesthetics with neighborhood tradition. Inside, interior architect Oliver Carter orchestrated a dynamic interplay of styles. The double-height entry showcases classic black-and-white marble tiles and traditional balusters, modernized by an oversized brass-framed mirror and a sleek bench. The elevated music room, a vibrant space, hosts a timeless black baby-grand piano and a striking Dale Chihuly chandelier, exemplifying the home’s bold approach to design. Interior designer Debbie Cansler of Trapp and Company joined the project to streamline the selection of finishes and furniture, ensuring a cohesive and functional design. Among the most cherished spaces is the living room, featuring grass-green tuxedo-style sofas with white bases flanking the fireplace, anchored by a graphic geometric rug. The custom Porter Teleo wallpaper is highlighted as a central artistic element. Adjacent to the living room, and separated by glassed-in wine storage, the dining room offers a cozy and richly colored environment, perfect for entertaining. It is adorned with antique crystal chandeliers and a custom Eric Thomas-designed rift-sawn white-oak table that can accommodate fourteen guests. Mike’s office, a sanctuary during lockdown, combines a serious atmosphere with dark woodwork and law journals, lightened by Hunt Slonem’s Abraham Lincoln painting and a whimsical “honest lawyer” pillow. The kitchen was conceived as a casual and low-maintenance space, essential for a family with two children and three dogs. It features double islands topped with polished white Panda marble, providing ample room for family activities and meal preparation, with Ann Sacks tile adding a dramatic touch to the backsplash. The primary suite serves as a serene escape, characterized by deep blue Phillip Jeffries shagreen wallcovering, a custom wingback leather-upholstered bed, and a plush hand-knotted Stark rug. The en-suite bathroom is a luxurious oasis, boasting an expansive floor of honed Grigio Delcato marble tiles, custom vanities with calacatta quartz tops, and a freestanding tub set against a backdrop of Artistic Tile water-jet mosaic. The Waldens express immense satisfaction with their home, a sentiment echoed by its popularity on the recent Kappa Kappa Gamma tour, confirming Cansler's success in creating a home that resonates with the family's desires. #MissionHillsHome #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryHome #HomeDecor #CustomInteriors #LuxuryLiving #FamilyHome #KansasCityRealEstate

The article details the redesign of an 18th-century farmhouse in Lumberton, transforming it to accommodate modern living while honoring its historical roots. The project was undertaken by Michelle Gage of Philadelphia-based Michelle Gage Interiors, who notes the home's significant age, dating back to the Revolutionary era. This particular residence presented a unique challenge due to its extensive history and the accumulated alterations made by previous inhabitants over centuries. The homeowner's openness to Gage's suggestions was a crucial factor in the redesign's success, allowing for a creative yet respectful approach. Gage identified an inherent 'English vibe' in the home and aimed to align the interior design with both this aesthetic and the client's 'quirky and eccentric' personality. The English influence is evident throughout the house, starting from the entry where antique boot racks hold wellies. The primary bedroom showcases a vibrant display of color and pattern, featuring layered florals on the walls, headboard, and bedding. The chosen wallpaper designs evoke a British country house style, characterized by rich patterns that contribute depth and character to the space. The redesign also incorporated unique elements like a moody, jungle-themed wall covering in the breakfast nook. This wallpaper, featuring hidden animal motifs, thoughtfully frames the home's original built-in cabinetry, adding an element of surprise and whimsy. In contrast, the laundry room adopts a more serene ambiance with a subdued sage-green and white botanical wall covering, designed to create a fresh and crisp atmosphere reminiscent of newly laundered linens. The project successfully merged historical integrity with contemporary comfort and personal style, creating a home that respects its past while providing a vibrant and unique living environment for its current owner. The collaboration between the designer and homeowner resulted in a space that is both historically conscious and reflective of modern eclectic tastes, demonstrating how an antique structure can be adapted for current lifestyles without sacrificing its inherent charm. #LumbertonFarmhouse #HistoricalHome #HomeRedesign #EclecticDecor #InteriorDesign #MichelleGageInteriors #EnglishVibe #RevolutionaryEraHome