Mojo Stumer's East Hampton Home is a Contemporary Take on the Traditional Seaside Residence

Amy Millisor, following her husband's death, downsized from a 10,500-square-foot modern mansion in 2018 to an older home overlooking Marston Lake in Bow Mar. Her goal was to create a warm, inviting space for hosting parties and family, avoiding the overwhelming scale of her previous residence. Millisor enlisted the help of Andrea Schumacher, a friend and her former home's designer, and architect Matt Stais, who had previously worked on vacation properties developed by Millisor and her late husband in Breckenridge. These professionals were tasked with transforming the newly acquired property into a family home. Millisor, a Cape Cod native, desired a design that blended her love for East Coast architecture and shoreside living with mountain-inspired elements and items collected from her travels in Southeast Asia and the American South. The design team was tasked with creating a home that integrated these diverse influences while honoring her family's past, present, and future. Architect Matt Stais opted for an exterior palette featuring unstained cedar-shake shingles, buff stone accents, and jet black trim, giving the Cape Cod-style architecture a modern feel. The landscaping, with blue hydrangeas and knockout roses, further reinforced the East Coast aesthetic. Inside, French and sliding glass doors were incorporated to offer panoramic views of Marston Lake and Mt. Evans to the west. The great room features chunky wooden ceiling beams and a custom floating fireplace, evoking a cozy mountain lodge. The wood veneer wallcovering of the fireplace, one of the first finishes chosen by Schumacher, mimics the water's color and texture, linking to the surrounding mountains. This blue hue was also integrated into the kitchen armoire and bar cabinet, establishing it as a neutral tone throughout the house. The cool blue tones extend to the powder room, where Schumacher combined a vibrant teal-painted ceiling with a custom vanity fashioned from a blue-stained, vintage Dongbei sideboard found on 1stDibs. This piece serves as a nod to Millisor’s Asian travels. The powder room also features elegant, hand-painted chinoiserie wallpaper and delicate, gilded-iron sconces, adding a touch of Southern charm. To facilitate entertaining, the bar was strategically placed in the great room, encouraging guests to move beyond the kitchen. The modern bar cabinets are complemented by two repurposed 19th-century teak columns from India, and wall sconces and a hammered-metal coffee table echo the brass accents found in the kitchen. Schumacher's approach to design is characterized by her ability to seamlessly blend diverse elements, such as art deco-influenced tile in the main bathroom, midcentury-style chandeliers in the dining room, and a leather-fringed chandelier in the entry. The overarching narrative of the home is one of intentionality and personal connection. Schumacher notes that the new house represents a more condensed and efficient way of living for Millisor, filled with carefully chosen pieces that she genuinely loves, in contrast to simply filling space in her previous large residence. Key design professionals involved in the project include Andrea Schumacher Interiors for interior design, Stais Architecture & Interiors for architecture, Haley Custom Homes for construction, and Viewpoint Design Group for landscape architecture. The article was originally published in the 5280 Home August/September 2023 issue. #CapeCodStyle #RanchHome #InteriorDesign #Architecture #DenverHomes #CustomHome #EclecticDesign #LakefrontProperty #AndreaSchumacherInteriors

The "Tierra Tulum Project," a newly finished four-bedroom residence in Holmes Beach, combines coastal comfort with an earthy, boho-modern aesthetic. The home was designed by Emily Moss Designs for a couple with a growing real estate portfolio who enjoy travel. It was inspired by their recent trip to Tulum and was built with the flexibility to serve as a primary residence, a vacation getaway, or a rental property. The design incorporates limewashed walls, arched ceilings, and various layered textures to evoke a boutique hotel atmosphere. Engineered hardwood floors provide both durability and warmth throughout the interior. Natural materials are prominently featured in the home's design to ground its airy color scheme. Walnut beams add a touch of organic warmth, and Ulite rock formations surround the resort-style pool, seamlessly integrating the outdoor and indoor aesthetics. The primary suite is a focal point, with double sliders that open to expansive views of the pool and the adjacent beach. An air vent, which initially posed a design challenge, was ingeniously transformed into a built-in feature, mirroring the custom millwork found in the living room and enhancing design coherence. The primary bathroom further showcases sophisticated design with a floating vanity and a freestanding tub encased in stone, reflecting a meticulous attention to detail and material selection. Among the home's various distinctive spaces, the office stands out due to its rich color palette and architectural ceiling. This area is distinguished by a pre-lit niche wall that features arched alcoves of differing shapes and sizes, adding visual depth and character. The use of blue limewash walls and artwork from Uttermost contributes to the office's striking and cohesive tonal drenching. This space exemplifies the thoughtful layering of design elements that makes each part of the home unique and memorable. The kitchen is designed with visual continuity, featuring a subtly paint-dipped island that echoes the hue used in the adjacent laundry room. A handcrafted blue Zellige tile backsplash provides additional depth and ties into the island’s color, creating a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing environment. The living room on the first floor incorporates a soft pale blue limewash accent wall, contributing a coastal touch, while an arrangement of rattan pendant lights overhead introduces a natural, earthy feel and serves as a striking focal point. The dining room, which overlooks the living room, maintains consistency with neutral tones in its flooring, table, and chairs. The pool area, designed by Tom Sanger Pools, is characterized by Miami Pebble and Ulite rock formations, with nearby rocks subtly repeating the stone details from the primary bath, reinforcing a cohesive design narrative throughout the property. #EmilyMossDesigns #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BohoModern #CoastalLiving #TulumInspired #LuxuryHome #ArchitecturalDesign

This article details the sophisticated redesign of a New Jersey beach house following its damage by fire. Interior designer Joan Enger of J Patryce Design, in collaboration with the original architect Richard Graham, undertook the task of resurrecting an updated version of the stately Southern Colonial home for a client who had owned the property since 1986. The client's vision for the home emphasized a 'subtle, sophisticated palette without an overtly ‘beachy’ feel,' moving away from traditional coastal decor stereotypes. Joan Enger focused on integrating vintage and custom furnishings and artwork to introduce interesting lines and forms, creating unexpected touches throughout the home. The design strategy involved mixing natural materials such as caning, seagrass, rift oak, shiplap, and textured linen to add depth and break up upholstery, ensuring durability while maintaining chic aesthetics. The renovated house, located in Spring Lake, known as the 'Irish Riviera,' boasts a regal and stately presence, situated proudly near the ocean amidst other impressive waterfront properties. The design drew inspiration from its surroundings, including the seagrass, sparkling sea spray, changing skies, and immaculate landscaping, to inform the color palette and design direction. Patterns were kept subtle, with an emphasis on texture and material variations like wood, caning, linen, and worn leather to convey the overarching design narrative. The interior spaces were designed for both intimate family gatherings and larger holiday events, featuring performance fabrics in high-use areas and special textiles in less frequented zones. The great room and living room were conceptualized to function both separately and as a cohesive space, reflecting the family's pattern of gathering. A focal point in the sitting room is a pair of vintage lounge chairs, which were so admired that copies were made for other areas, demonstrating the designer's ability to incorporate unique finds. The designer also made a conscious effort to warm up the new construction by incorporating a significant amount of vintage and custom pieces, with bookcases, surfaces, and walls adorned with collected objects rather than newly purchased items. The coastal kitchen, while retaining its original location, underwent a significant update to accommodate the growing family's needs. This included the addition of multiple seating areas, a butler’s pantry, a full-size mudroom, and a powder room, along with various access points to the back deck. The kitchen's aesthetic is clear and crisp, brought to life with character-filled elements such as Zellige tiles, brass hardware, rustic baskets, and ceramics. A chic banquette dining area further enhances the kitchen's sociable and laidback atmosphere. The dining room, adjacent to the hallway, is designed to comfortably seat 14 people, featuring oversized wooden chandeliers that serve as striking design focal points. The home includes eight bedrooms, each decorated in a modern coastal style with a consistent color palette. Contemporary additions like brass fittings and rattan headboards introduce textural interest. The primary bathroom stands out for its crisp and serene ambiance, offering ocean views from two sides. A custom-honed Carrara floor pattern in the primary bath adds a perfect amount of visual interest, completing the home's sophisticated transformation. #CoastalDesign #BeachHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SophisticatedPalette #NaturalMaterials #VintageFurnishings #NewJerseyHomes #SouthernColonial

The article showcases a transitional-style condominium in One St. Petersburg, owned by Michael Mastry, founder and principal designer of Haven Design Center. This luxury condo, located in St. Pete’s downtown waterfront district, offers a retreat for Mastry, providing an extensive view of the urban waterfront, including the pier, yacht basin, and an adjacent airport. The design approach for this space blends contemporary and traditional elements, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere with a coastal essence. Mastry’s design incorporates clean, modern lines that highlight his collection of exotic art, custom-made furniture, and architectural features finished with organic materials. The living room is distinguished by a wall of stacked chisel marble, which, when illuminated, adds texture and light to the area. The neutral color scheme and subtle accents in this space direct attention to the large patio doors and the panoramic downtown view. Art is a central component of the home’s decor, with Mastry emphasizing that his choices are based on the emotional impact and the enhancement a piece brings to a room, viewing art as an element that introduces culture and “spice” into the living environment. One notable art piece is a commissioned work titled “The Party Within,” created by an unnamed Texan artist whose works are not publicly sold, which is displayed above the dining table. This area is also illuminated by a limited-production Article Chandelier by Thomas O’Brien. The den, which functions as Mastry’s workspace, features a hand-painted design on its walls. This design, characterized by a careful sweeping motion, imparts a whimsical and dynamic feel, while trees within the design are custom-made locally to fit the specific dimensions of the room. A full bathroom is discreetly integrated into the den through a hidden door. Both bedrooms in the condominium feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that provide spectacular views. The master bedroom is designed with simplicity and serenity in mind, incorporating a natural linen wall covering and custom lighting fixtures. The balcony adjacent to the master bedroom is equipped with real teak wood flooring intertwined with turf grass, creating a suitable surface for Mastry’s evening yoga practice. In the guest bedroom, the wall covering is crafted from authentic, stained wood veneer, whose graining is highlighted by the light, creating a visually striking effect.

This article details a contemporary 6,000-square-foot residence in Southern California’s Manhattan Beach, designed by Montalba Architects. The dwelling spans three floors on a long, deep lot, characteristic of the area's ocean-adjacent properties, and addresses the challenge of dense proximity while maintaining a sense of openness. The exterior features a pared-down palette of plaster, Douglas fir for the roof overhang, and Western red cedar for a textural screen wall, complemented by an abundance of glass, suggesting a voluminous interior presence. The interior design ingeniously mitigates any feeling of compression through a double-height interior courtyard open to the sky, serving as the central organizing element of the home. Entry to the house is through a screened, semi-outdoor garden space on the ground floor. This level contains a guest room and bath, mechanical and laundry areas, a large gym, and an expansive garage designed to accommodate up to six vehicles, catering to the owner’s passion as a Porsche collector. The "real" front door is situated on the second level, accessible via an exterior stairway. On the second floor, an entry foyer overlooks the central courtyard, which features a large maple tree. This alfresco amenity is visible from various points throughout the house, including from the third floor. This level is dedicated to the owners' private spaces, encompassing the primary ensuite bedroom and bath, as well as separate her and his offices. An additional deck expands the usable outdoor area. An indoor, light-filled stairwell connects to the third floor, strategically located to maximize natural daylight. David Montalba emphasizes that a consistent theme in his diverse architectural work is the sculpting and engaging integration of natural light into buildings. The third floor accommodates the main living areas, including a conjoined living, dining, and kitchen zone, alongside a family-media room. This family-media room opens through sliders to an outdoor living space, featuring the tall courtyard and a deck with a lap pool, overlooked by a vertical garden. This vertical garden enhances privacy and adds a unique aesthetic element. The design also incorporates a subtle 'slot of space' on the third floor, allowing for distant views of breaking waves from all rooms. Montalba’s modernist approach is evident in the minimal finishes and furnishings throughout the home. Flooring consists of white oak indoors, transitioning to ipe outdoors, designed to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Other prominent materials include vertical-grain white oak for millwork and acid-blasted silver travertine from Belgium for the living room fireplace. The furniture selection features pieces from acclaimed designers such as Finn Juhl, Rodolfo Dordoni, Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, Roberto Barbieri, and Roberto Lazzeroni. The home also integrates contemporary art from artists like Andy Moses and Casper Brindle, alongside a family heirloom Steinway piano, blending modern aesthetics with personal history. #MontalbaArchitects #ManhattanBeach #ContemporaryArchitecture #BeachHouseDesign #ModernistDesign #InteriorCourtyard #LuxuryResidential #SouthernCaliforniaHomes #ArchitecturalLighting

James Nicholas Custom Home Builders, a custom home builder and general contractor based in Westhampton Beach, specializes in high-end luxury homes across the Hamptons. Owner James Aracri, a long-time resident of Westhampton Beach, emphasizes a collaborative approach with clients and architects, ensuring that the design vision is brought to reality, with flexibility for design changes throughout the project. The company is known for constructing opulent residences in prime Hamptons locations. One of the company's notable ongoing projects is a 5,000-square-foot, oceanfront home at 161 Dune Road in Westhampton Beach, designed by architect Bruce Nagel. This property features a three-story spiral staircase, curved glass walls, and offers panoramic 360-degree views of both the bay and the ocean, showcasing a design that complements its unique location. James Nicholas Custom Home Builders recently completed the Three Ducks Hotel, a boutique hotel in Westhampton Beach, and has also finished other luxury homes in the East End, including properties in Remsenburg (51 Tuthill Lane and 18 Cricket Path) and Bridgehampton (1223 Ocean Road). The company offers a design-build option through BN+G (BN-G.com), a partnership formed by Aracri with architect Bruce Nagel and Michael Murphy, who brings over 30 years of design-build expertise. This integrated approach allows clients to work with the builder from the initial design phase, streamlining the construction process. James Nicholas Custom Home Builders has seen significant activity during the recent Hamptons construction boom, driven by an influx of new homeowners. Aracri notes that supply chain issues, such as those for appliances and materials, have improved significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to better project timelines. Aracri, whose family has a history in construction on Long Island, has been involved in home building for most of his life, with the last 25 years focused on high-end luxury homes in the Hamptons. These homes typically range from 5,000 to 20,000 square feet and are often built for secondary homeowners, many from New York City. Aracri ensures operational control of subcontractors to maintain quality craftsmanship and provides financial transparency to clients through a cost-plus basis, allowing homeowners to see all invoices and costs. This transparency is particularly valued by his clientele, many of whom come from the finance industry. James Nicholas Custom Home Builders integrates quality and innovation into its projects, utilizing new technologies and materials that support design aesthetics and offer extended warranties of up to 50 years. Homes often feature advanced audio-visual media rooms and smart home systems like Lutron, allowing homeowners to control lighting and other functions remotely via their phones. The firm maintains relationships with high-end manufacturers and vendors globally and considers environmental factors such as proximity to water and compliance with Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) regulations. Special features frequently incorporated include elaborate pool designs with waterfalls, spas, and lighting controls, as well as comprehensive landscape architecture and hardscaping. The company also installs 24-hour cameras accessible to homeowners, especially beneficial for those building secondary residences. Aracri remains personally involved in projects, emphasizing the personal investment clients make in their Hamptons homes, which he views as investments in lifestyle and memories. #HamptonsRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #CustomHomeBuilders #WesthamptonBeach #EastEndConstruction #ArchitecturalDesign #SmartHomeTechnology #CoastalLiving #JamesNicholasBuilders

This article delves into the unique charm and inherent lessons found within the historic summer houses of Newport, as observed by interior designer Ruthie Sommers. Sommers recounts her initial experiences upon arriving in Newport approximately two decades ago, expecting to find the modern, pristine interiors typical of her Los Angeles-based design work. Instead, she encountered homes that defied contemporary design trends, showcasing features like rosebud-colored five-by-five tiles and pegboards laden with cast-iron pots, in stark contrast to the shiny bathrooms and cavernous walk-in closets she was accustomed to designing. The article highlights the absence of newly designed, polished spaces, replaced by a sense of history and individuality. Sommers was struck by the authentic and unapologetic expression of personality embedded within these homes. She describes finding old Oscar de la Renta and Bill Blass gowns hanging from doors and sconces, alongside burnt-edge Fortuny shades that were askew. A particularly vivid detail is the ombré curtains, whose deep purple had faded to periwinkle over years of sun exposure, which Sommers viewed as masterpieces that no fabric house could intentionally replicate. These elements, combined with the presence of multiple generations filling the homes during summers, created an atmosphere she likens to a Pissarro painting, emphasizing an unpolished, lived-in beauty rather than a 'photo-ready' interior. The core revelation for Sommers was the profound sense of self-acceptance these homes embodied. They did not attempt to mask their owners' stories but rather narrated them through their decor and architecture. This approach presented a novel and liberating perspective to Sommers as a designer, leading her to question the contemporary cycle of perpetual change in architecture and decor. She posits that if our physical environments are constantly being updated and replaced, our inner selves might mirror this superficiality. The article suggests that these Newport houses communicate a timeless lesson: that true beauty and character come from embracing age and authenticity, rather than constantly pursuing newness. Sommers concludes by expressing her indebtedness to this lesson, advocating for a pause in the relentless pursuit of the new. She suggests that the aged and the ageless can coexist harmoniously, and that understanding the beauty in elements like the periwinkle curtains or the sight of an elderly gardener tending to his weeds reveals a shared secret: that innovation and freshness are not external acquisitions but intrinsic qualities that reside within us. The article also mentions the release of Ruthie Sommers and Nick Mele's book, 'A Newport Summer,' in May 2022, further emphasizing the designer's connection to and insights from the Newport aesthetic. The piece implicitly encourages readers to find value in enduring style and personal history within their own living spaces. #InteriorDesign #NewportHomes #RuthieSommers #ArchitecturalHistory #TimelessDesign #HomeDecor #AuthenticityInDesign

This article highlights a unique Hamptons shingle beach house, a collaborative project by architect Thomas A. Kligerman of Kligerman Architecture & Design and interior designer Charlie Ferrer of Ferrer. The property, built on the site of a 1950s house, was designed to be larger and to withstand hurricanes, necessitating its construction on stilts six feet above the beach. This elevated position provides expansive views of the bay and Long Island's north point, with the interior design intentionally focusing occupants towards the water. The clients' brief emphasized a blend of modern and traditional styles, prioritizing comfort as a family beach house without being overly formal. Architect Tom Kligerman's design incorporates generous windows to maximize views and a varied architectural pace with split-level rooms, ensuring privacy for the bedrooms. A notable and unique feature is 'the oyster house,' a cool room situated beneath the main structure, surrounded by sand and vegetation, specifically designed for clambakes. Additionally, a dining porch, originally planned as open, was given a roof to accommodate the clients' desire to dance outdoors even in the rain, adding a romantic element to the home. The interior layout includes a Great Room, serving as a combined sitting and dining area, and a Four Seasons room, which is a sitting space extending from the kitchen. Natural materials are prominent throughout, with oak ceilings being a key design feature. The interior decor aims for a cozy, historically-inspired, cottage-like ambiance, utilizing a watery color palette. The Great Room, for instance, features lavender-blue walls, chosen for their ability to evoke a cozy neutral feel, shifting in hue with the changing light, and providing depth and mood distinct from typical stark white Hamptons interiors. The color scheme extends from bold maritime blues to soft pinks and vibrant sea greens. The furniture selection is an eclectic mix of mid-century modern pieces from French, Italian, and Scandinavian origins, reflecting a curated approach to design. The designer, Charlie Ferrer, believes in blending different styles, materials, and ideas, creating a collection of complementary elements. Interesting finds include kitchen island pendants sourced from a Swedish hospital complex. The house also incorporates subtle nautical references, such as brass portholes in some doors and glass doors with horizontal metal bronze bands in the dining area, which are echoed in the bathroom details. These elements, combined with mid-century furniture, incorporate a touch of 1930s elegance, reminiscent of the steamship era. The house successfully blends functionality, aesthetics, and personalized elements, creating a distinctive coastal residence. #HamptonsBeachHouse #ShingleStyleArchitecture #CoastalLiving #HurricaneResistantDesign #KligermanArchitecture #FerrerInteriorDesign #ModernTraditionalMix #NaturalMaterials #WateryColorPalette

The Ingram family, consisting of three generations and 17 members, frequently takes holidays together. To accommodate their growing family and create a shared holiday haven, John and Margaret Ingram, with their children Leanne, Katie, and Paul, decided to purchase a weekender. In 2010, Katie discovered a property on Sydney’s Northern Beaches that seemed promising. While the location offered appealing ocean views, the existing structure, a four-bedroom 1970s red-brick cottage, was dated and too small for the entire family. Interior designer Leanne Smeallie describes their initial years in the cottage as "glamping" due to its limited space, especially as the children grew into teenagers. To transform the outdated cottage into a spacious and functional holiday home, Leanne collaborated with architect Susan Rothwell and builder Mark Thompson of Contemporary Builders. The primary objective was to reconfigure the floor plan to create additional bedrooms and multi-zoned areas suitable for both intimate gatherings of two and larger family reunions of 20. The renovation aimed for a low-maintenance, Hamptons-style aesthetic. The first floor underwent the most significant changes, with the layout redesigned to include generous kitchen, dining, and living rooms. These spaces now have direct access to an extended terrace, which features both alfresco dining and sitting zones, becoming a central hub for relaxation. The original living room was converted into a luxurious main bedroom suite for John and Margaret, and two additional bedrooms were added to this level. The ground floor was designated as the children's area, featuring a bunkroom for younger children, two extra bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large covered terrace that serves as a hangout spot for teenagers. This design allows the first floor to function as the main living area, with the downstairs providing overflow accommodation during peak family visits, which typically occur for two weeks in January. For the interiors, Leanne adopted a beach house aesthetic, characterized by a simple yet durable palette. Consistency in materials, colors, and textures was crucial to maintain a cohesive coastal vernacular and enhance the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. For instance, sandstone cladding was used on balcony pillars and the fireplace surround, while the same stone floor tiles were applied in both the upstairs living areas and outdoor spaces. A restrained cool-neutral color palette further contributed to the unified design. A personal touch was incorporated at Margaret’s request: the integration of local sandstone, a material holding sentimental value from her childhood holidays in the area. The renovation was completed in 2018, and the transformed home has been met with universal approval from the family. The increased space and thoughtful design have fostered more frequent family gatherings, allowing the entire family to comfortably enjoy their time together, reinforcing the sentiment that it is "just more fun when we are all together." #HamptonsStyle #HomeRenovation #FamilyLiving #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesign #FloorPlanRedesign #MultiGenerationalHome #OutdoorLiving

This article details the design of a contemporary North Carolina beach house, a vacation home for Lindsey and Wes Carter in Wrightsville Beach, their childhood town. The couple desired a relaxed, coastal, and modern aesthetic with a foundational palette of black and cream, accented by subtle pops of color and organic textures. Interior designer Cortney Bishop was tasked with creating a sophisticated yet approachable and kid-friendly environment. A significant design challenge was the home's upside-down floorplan, necessitated by a narrow lot. This three-story reversed layout features the entrance on the ground floor, leading to a central winding staircase that ascends to the kitchen, living area, and bedrooms on the upper floors. The ground floor entry was designed to be practical, incorporating a bench and hooks for beach essentials and wet towels, and featuring a distinctive feathered tile. To counteract the disorientation potentially caused by the reversed layout, Bishop incorporated visual interest and texture to guide occupants smoothly to the second-floor living spaces. Material choices and their intentional placement were crucial in creating a delightful experience, drawing focus towards the kitchen and living area, which were designed to feel connected to the home's surroundings. The kitchen cabinetry was custom-made to achieve an integrated "living room feel," featuring a bleach oak surfing detail that showcased excellent craftsmanship. A soft white paint color on the horizontal shiplap of the outer staircase wall, combined with vertical white oak accents on the inside of the stairs and a glass window from the second floor into the living area, helped eliminate any sense of perplexity regarding the layout. The kitchen and living space are highlighted as showstoppers, attributed to the quality of construction materials, including wide plank shiplap running horizontally and vertical oak accent panels in various areas, including the office. Bedrooms were given unique touches with wallpaper, while the primary bedroom was wrapped in oak, contributing to a captivating narrative throughout the house. Vintage lamps were used to add character and style to the primary bedroom. The design extended to the bathrooms, where a blend of organic elements, sophistication, and black elegance was maintained. The boys' room adopted a tribal surf theme with bunk beds, and the girls' room featured a fresh, fun atmosphere, with matching bleached white oak Kerfing cabinet accents seen throughout the home. The entire project, from concept to installation, spanned two and a half years, culminating in a home that deeply reflects the clients' personalities and lifestyle, achieving a distinct "vibe" that thrilled both the homeowners and the designer. #CoastalDesign #BeachHouse #ContemporaryHome #NorthCarolina #InteriorDesign #UpsideDownFloorplan #CustomCabinetry #OrganicTextures #ModernAesthetic

A family from Virginia sought a coastal retreat that would offer a dramatic departure from their traditional primary residence in the D.C. area. They chose Marco Island, commissioning HLevel Architecture for the design, BUILD for construction, and David Fruscione of Republic of Decor for the interiors. The 6,600-square-foot, five-bedroom home, initially conceived as a spec house, was transformed into a personalized sanctuary reflecting the clients' desire for a casual, coastal, and transitional feel while maintaining sophistication. The design ethos is characterized by a palette of blues and neutrals, echoing the surrounding water. The exterior features a blue metal roof, and the two-story glass entry is accentuated by an 11.5-foot-long blown-glass chandelier from Hammerton. The main living spaces are grounded by wide-plank oak floors, complemented by floating shelves and reclaimed beams that add warmth against 11.5-foot ceilings and expansive glass walls. The study exemplifies an elevated coastal design with a navy built-in, grasscloth wallpaper, and brass sconces, framed in black metal to create a sophisticated and textured environment. The kitchen stands as a central feature, showcasing a custom blue and brass hood above a Wolf range. This is balanced by a porcelain tile backsplash and a 10.5-foot island, painted in a blue-black finish and topped with quartz featuring subtle gray veining. Antiqued mirrored glass conceals Sub-Zero refrigeration units, while brass accents on Arteriors pendant lighting and other fixtures contribute to a cohesive warm aesthetic throughout the space. Illumination was a key priority, with a comprehensive lighting plan incorporating various fixtures, from brass pendants to sculptural sconces, to create a layered glow. In the primary suite, subtle textures ensure the focus remains on the Bay view. Phillip Jeffries wallcovering adorns the headboard wall, and the ensuite bathroom features porcelain tile and quartzite countertops. Penny tile shower flooring in soft putty and mushroom tones maintains the home’s neutral foundation, illuminated by alabaster sconces from Chapman & Myers. Upstairs, the bedrooms introduce more individualized expressions, including a particularly feminine suite for the couple's teenage daughter, adorned with Laura Park wallpaper in pinks and corals and a bubble-glass fixture. Personal touches are evident throughout the home, from the curated mix of art and accessories in the great room to a distinct family photo wall between the entry and kitchen, which was a surprise commissioned by the owner for her husband, celebrating decades of memories. Outdoors, a raised pool and spa complement a Turkish limestone-clad loggia, which houses an open-air kitchen, dining, and living area, extending the waterfront living experience. The pool bath provides a dramatic element with vibrant Stroheim wallpaper, complemented by a Stone Forest vanity featuring a solid marble top over knurled brass and wood shelves. This home successfully blends bold design elements with coastal ease, offering a distinct departure from formal living for the family. #HomeTour #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHome #MarcoIsland #RepublicOfDecor #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomInteriors #WaterfrontLiving

This article details the transformation of a newly built, 7,900-square-foot shingle-style home in Osterville, Cape Cod, into a maritime-inspired vacation haven for a couple from Texas. The property, situated on 2.8 acres, holds historical significance as the former site of the Hinckley Shipyard, which operated from 1817 to 1857. Although the original boathouse and residence are no longer present, a 200-year-old barn and remnants of outbuildings remain, adding a layer of history to the setting. The homeowners, with the husband’s roots in Boston and childhood summers spent on Martha’s Vineyard, sought a Cape Cod retreat offering a deep-water dock, walking distance to a village, and proximity to amenities like a Whole Foods. They enlisted interior designer Amity Worrel and her Austin-based team, who had previously designed their primary residence, to undertake the renovation and infuse the home with nautical charm. The design process spanned two summers, with Worrel and her team dedicating weeks to overseeing construction, wallpaper installation, and sourcing antiques across the Cape. The initial phase was characterized by an ambitious seven-month timeline, driven by the homeowners' desire to occupy the house by the Fourth of July. This required rapid site assessment, builder selection, and meticulous furnishing of each room. Key design elements in the first phase included an antique map of the Cape in the pool room, European antiques from Studio Marchant, and a primary suite adorned with Peter Dunham wallcovering. The following summer, the project expanded to the lower level, which was developed to include a soundproofed movie theater, a wine room, a kitchenette, and a bunk room. The detached garage apartment was also refined, notably featuring a boat suspended from its ceiling, an unusual piece sourced from the High Point Furniture Market. The overall design scheme was influenced by the property’s rural, idyllic location. The kitchen features green cabinetry complemented by brass hardware and “peachy-pink” Moroccan tile with a basketweave pattern. Instead of traditional bar-top seating, a cozy nook with a petite floral swivel chair was created for morning coffee. Rattan pendants from Made Goods further enhance the New-England-meets-countryside aesthetic. Custom details abound, such as the unique wallpaper in the basement, a collaboration between Counterpart Studios (Andrée Chalaron’s venture) and Fort Lonesome, an embroidery studio from Texas. This wallpaper showcases an oversized replica of the historic “Entering Osterville 1648” sign. Other bespoke touches include a neon “Blowhole” sign, inspired by a handyman's whale tattoo, and an outdoor hand-painted wooden sign referencing a famous line from the movie *Jaws*. The layered aesthetic is further enriched by a collection of antiques and vintage furnishings sourced locally on the Cape. The design team resided on the Cape for a month to personally select floor lamps, vintage furniture, and accessories, thereby avoiding shipping costs. They also undertook creative tasks like spray-painting shades and re-working fixtures to achieve a seamless integration. The pool bath features a fish-themed wallcovering from Cole & Son, reinforcing the coastal motif, while outdoor furnishings from Restoration Hardware complete the sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The home is described as an evolving space, combining wall-to-wall textiles, inviting colors, and unexpected details that reflect the family’s passion for seaside living, consistently viewed by the homeowners as their most beautiful residence. #HomeDesign #CapeCod #InteriorDesign #VacationHome #MaritimeInspired #Osterville #AmityWorrel #Renovation #CoastalLiving

The New York architecture firm Sawyer|Berson, known for its stylistic versatility in designing Hamptons' residences, undertook a unique project for Richard Shemtov, CEO and founder of furniture company Dune. Shemtov envisioned a modestly scaled weekend retreat in Southampton for his family, inspired by traditional gable-roof barns but executed in a rigorously pared-down style. Key inspirations for the design included Herzog & de Meuron’s Parrish Art Museum and John Pawson’s Baron House in Sweden. This project, while seemingly simple, presented an exercise in discipline for architects Brian Sawyer and John Berson, requiring careful coordination of the plan and section to create a cohesive composition. To achieve a crisp silhouette for the 8,000-square-foot house, one of its two main levels was entirely submerged below-grade. The weathered-gray zinc standing-seam roof was designed to be flush with the perimeter edges, featuring hidden gutters. The exterior is characterized by expansive 10-foot-high, black-painted aluminum-framed glass panels, many of which are operable, along with a distinctive recycled-glass brick cladding. The ground floor accommodates an open living/dining area, a kitchen, and four bedrooms. The basement level, designed to be column-free to house multiple entertaining areas, Shemtov’s home office, a laundry room, a gym, and a kitchenette, added significant engineering complexity to the project. The design evolved to include a custom-fabricated carport and a half-level attic den, which also functions as a guest bedroom. The construction ultimately took nearly three years and exceeded the initial budget, but Shemtov affirmed it was the house they desired. Richard Shemtov himself took on the role of interior designer, a first for him on a project of this scale. The interior design process was meticulous, with every inch carefully considered. Architectural detailing was minimized, focusing on simple baseboard trim and custom millwork. In the double-height living area, Shemtov designed a striking fireplace surround in wenge and built-in bookshelves with a hand-glazed faux-linen finish, backed with mirror or hair-on hide for added texture. The ground level features 8-inch-wide pine floor planks, wire-brushed and treated with a milky glaze for a unique tactile experience. Most built-ins, seating, and tables were produced by Dune, utilizing a mix of existing collection pieces and new designs, some of which have since been incorporated into Dune's product line. Examples include an amoeba-shaped ottoman/table upholstered in harlequin-patterned coral leather and a Donald Judd-inspired teal-aluminum sideboard. The lower level, dedicated to recreation, features exuberant Dune sectionals in a rusty-hued chenille and a lemon-suede, channel-tufted circular model inspired by Pierre Paulin. The artwork within the home predominantly consists of personal collections and pieces by friends. A notable acquisition is a Bernardo Siciliano painting of a restaurant interior, which resonated with Shemtov as Dune had previously created a custom banquette for the very restaurant depicted. To introduce natural light into the lower level, Sawyer|Berson, responsible for the landscaping, created a courtyard garden. This garden features amphitheater-style concrete terraces adorned with various potted plants, a concept refined by Shemtov. The rear grounds are dominated by a minimalist swimming pool, framed by porcelain-tile coping and a precisely graded lawn. An outdoor kitchen, a poolside dining pergola, and a covered terrace offer additional family gathering spaces. Shemtov envisions the home serving as a cherished retreat for his family for many years, describing the entire project as a profound labor of love. #SouthamptonHome #SawyerBerson #DuneFurniture #RichardShemtov #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #HamptonsArchitecture #ModernBarnStyle #LuxuryResidence #LandscapeArchitecture

This blog post explores how interior designer Tamara Magel transformed a Hamptons beach house for a young New York couple, moving away from traditional nautical themes to a more modern and sophisticated minimalist aesthetic. The homeowners desired their second home to reflect the contemporary elegance of their Manhattan apartment, leading Magel to implement a design strategy that focuses on a neutral color palette augmented with dramatic, ocean-inspired elements. The transformation demonstrates that a beach house doesn't necessitate conventional seaside decor but can instead embrace a chic, minimalist approach. Magel's design philosophy integrates nature into the interior spaces. For instance, in the living room, a custom soapstone fireplace serves as a focal point, flanked by Apparatus Studio horsehair sconces. The use of Venetian plaster above the fireplace, combined with natural elements like wood stumps and shearling chairs, cultivates an outdoorsy ambiance without resorting to overt beach motifs. This approach balances sleek, contemporary furniture with organic textures, creating a cohesive and inviting space. Contrary to common misconceptions about minimalism, the design incorporates color strategically. The den walls are painted in a blue hue, imparting a warm, seaside atmosphere that is still distinctly contemporary. To further soften the minimalist aesthetic, Magel introduces brown tones through furniture and decor, such as a leather ottoman and Home Nature throws and pillows, adding layers of warmth and texture to the space. The kitchen design exemplifies a harmonious blend of wood and steel. White cabinets and stainless steel appliances maintain a clean, minimalist look, while Circa Lighting pendants above the island complement the modern fixtures. Exposed beams and wood floors introduce an earthy, grounding element, ensuring the space feels integrated and balanced rather than sterile. This combination highlights how contrasting materials can coexist to create a sophisticated and functional area. To infuse the home with a sense of luxury beach living without overdoing the nautical theme, Magel selects a few key beachy statement pieces. Contemporary paintings in blue and white contribute to a coastal feel, making the space casual yet refined and glamorous. An Apparatus Lariat light fixture offers a subtle nod to nautical influences, providing a chic and understated dining ambiance. This demonstrates how art and lighting can be used to evoke a theme subtly and elegantly. Texture plays a crucial role in creating depth and interest within the minimalist framework. Magel emphasizes the importance of incorporating a variety of textures, drawing inspiration from the natural elements of the beach. By pairing diverse materials like wood and knitwear, and integrating larger pieces such as an Elizabeth Dow stump or a pom-pom light fixture with smaller details like Ochre horn handles on custom white oak side tables, the design achieves visual richness without being jarring. This layered approach ensures that the minimalist spaces feel dynamic and inviting, echoing the varied textures found in nature. #MinimalistDecor #HamptonsBeachHouse #InteriorDesign #TamaraMagel #ModernCoastal #NeutralColorScheme #NaturalElements #LuxuryDesign

The article delves into the professional and personal life of James Thurstan Waterworth, the founder of Thurstan, an interior design studio. Before establishing his own firm in 2018, Waterworth served as the European design director at Soho House. His vision for Thurstan was to create unique and eclectic interiors that truly reflect the client's brief and harmonize with the architectural context and surrounding environment. His work spans both hospitality and private residences, taking him globally to transform spaces. The narrative highlights Waterworth's formative years, revealing an early passion for interior design, nurtured by magazines sent by his sister, even while attending an all-boys boarding school that didn't prioritize creative fields. He recounts his initial aspiration to study art history, which was dissuaded by his father. This led him to pursue interior design, initially facing rejection from Oxford Brookes. Undeterred, he gained practical experience through various placements and completed a course at KLC School of Design in London, ultimately securing his first professional role at Martin Brudnizki Design Studio. The article positions him in his Clerkenwell office, near the Barbican, surrounded by carefully curated objects that showcase his aesthetic and eclectic taste, a skill honed during his time at Soho House, working on projects like Soho House Istanbul and Barcelona. Currently, he is involved in designing Bradley House in Wiltshire and a Symington property in Portugal. Waterworth's creative drive is attributed to his family background; his mother was an artist, and his stepmother an antique dealer with an exceptional eye, while his father, a property developer, harbored unfulfilled architectural dreams. He expresses enthusiasm for the conceptual phase of his work, embracing each new client, project, and location as a distinct challenge, and cherishes the opportunity to travel worldwide in search of beautiful objects. His aesthetic heroes are Axel Vervoordt and Robert Kime, admired for their passion for furniture, antiques, and architecture. His personal passions extend to literature, citing Nigel Nicholson’s *Great Houses of Britain* as an inspiring read due to its accessible approach to architecture. He found the crafts exhibition at Japan House London particularly impressive, reflecting his deep appreciation for Japanese culture, cleanliness, efficiency, and aesthetic thoughtfulness, with Kyoto being his favorite global destination. Roger Hilton is his favorite artist, and he owns one of Hilton's late-period chicken paintings, acquired after years of admiration. In his studio, world music, especially African Soukous from the late 80s and 90s, and light piano pieces by Ludovico Einaudi, often accompany his work. He treasures a Carl Aubock screw-bottle opener, a gift from his family, embodying his appreciation for beautifully crafted everyday objects. For a desert island scenario, he would bring a piano, an instrument he rarely has time to play, believing it would provide entertainment and solace. The most cherished gift he received was a 1960s Rolex from his wife for their wedding, valued for its personal significance. He frequently revisits the Grand Nord-Pinus hotel in the South of France, enjoying its distinct bullfighting-era vibe and proximity to antique markets. He is an avid listener of the podcast *Not Just the Tudors*, expressing a long-standing fascination with Tudor history and admiration for the narrator, Professor Suzannah Lipscomb. His most recent significant purchase was another Roger Hilton painting, underscoring his ongoing collection of 20th-century British abstract art, particularly from the British-St Ives school, as well as early Pyrenees, French, and Spanish furniture, and Italian and Spanish frames. When asked who would portray him in a film, he suggests Andrew Scott, seeing a shared sensitivity and subtle demeanor, albeit with a need for a hair dye. His mornings are typically initiated by his children at 5:30 AM, but he finds his most creative hour alone in the office before others arrive. He recalls a memorable meal at a now-closed Japanese grilled food restaurant in Barcelona, praising its rustic charm and exceptional cuisine. #InteriorDesign #JamesThurstanWaterworth #Thurstan #SohoHouse #Architecture #Antiques #ArtHistory #JapaneseCulture #TudorHistory

This article showcases the transformation of a bayfront property in Mantoloking, New Jersey, designed by Joe Lucas, a California designer and former Jersey native. Lucas undertook the renovation of his sister's beach house, aiming to move beyond stereotypical nautical themes and create a sophisticated coastal aesthetic. The project began with significant structural modifications to address tidal flooding; Lucas, in collaboration with Daniel Lynch of B.L.D.G. Architecture, elevated the main house an entire level, creating a new ground floor that includes a screened-in porch, mudroom, powder room, and garage. He also incorporated a loggia with outdoor entertaining spaces designed to withstand water. This elevation provided more expansive views of the bay from the enlarged and brighter living and dining areas. Key interior reconfigurations involved converting a screened-in porch into a sunroom, relocating the fireplace, and shifting the kitchen eight feet to accommodate a custom home bar, pantry, and beer refrigerator. Once the structural changes were complete, Lucas focused on interior design, adopting a less literal interpretation of the coastal style. He established a palette of watercolor grays and blues, using Farrow & Ball paints like Dimpse, De Nimes, and Parma Gray, to maintain a connection to the ocean while avoiding overt beach house clichés. Subtle nods to the family's beloved 1982 Fortier 26 boat, named Banter, are evident in elements such as copper lanterns over the kitchen island. Natural textures, including a nubby sisal rug in the living room, were chosen to evoke the shore's reeds and grasses, reinforcing the coastal connection without being overly thematic. The exterior received charming shore Colonial-style cladding with cedar shingles, replacing the original brick. Simple, heat- and humidity-resistant landscaping, featuring hydrangeas and crepe myrtle, complements the facade. Inside, various rooms feature carefully selected design elements. The stairway incorporates an earthy Nina Freudenberger for Lulu and Georgia rug, blending deep wood tones with the wall and trim colors, illuminated by Visual Comfort & Co. lighting, and flanked by Woven chairs. The living room displays lithographs of native Jersey Shore birds, with a Samsung Frame TV seamlessly integrated above the mantel. The custom sofa is upholstered in Ferrick Mason fabric, complemented by a Four Hands coffee table and a Marc Phillips rug. The kitchen boasts a teak-and-holly bar, reminiscent of boat interiors, with cabinets painted in Farrow & Ball's Mizzle and the island in Benjamin Moore's Slate Blue. Bliss Studio stools in Perennials fabric and vintage pendants from Santa Ynez General complete the space. The dining room features brass details on Woven chairs and a chandelier from The Urban Electric Co., creating a refined maritime ambiance, along with a custom Harbinger table and another Marc Phillips rug. The sunroom, described as a "jewel box," has a beadboard ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball's Parma Gray, custom Roman shades in James Dunlop Textiles fabric, and a Palecek coffee table. #CoastalDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #JoeLucas #JerseyShore #BeachHouse #ModernCoastal #StructuralChanges #DesignInspiration