Old Versus New: Victorian Home Gets Modern Update

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the need for significant updates to accommodate a family of four, particularly the limited one and a half bathrooms and outdated features.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

This article 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

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

This article details the transformation of a 1985 home in Westminster's Ranch Country Club, which received a rustic-modern makeover by interior designer Peggy Haddad. The homeowners initially considered a costly expansion but opted to work within the existing footprint, focusing on cohesive design elements, proportional furniture, and textural touches to update the interior. The entryway, previously characterized by dated orange oak and old-fashioned stairs, underwent a significant renovation. Instead of replacing the wood flooring, Haddad had it refinished to neutralize red-orange tones and add warmth. The traditional handrails and balusters were replaced with modern, clean-lined versions, and the carpeted stairs received white oak treads. An awkward triangular opening to the living room was closed, creating a focal point with a natural wood console table, a sculptural lamp, and a tiered chandelier, which adds visual interest and draws the eye upward. The lounge area, adjacent to the entryway, was transformed into an intimate bar space. The old carpet was replaced with oak floors, and a sleek marble fireplace surround updated the traditional wooden one. The ceiling's popcorn texture was removed. Dark-toned geometric tiles and walnut-hued cabinetry at the bar are complemented by wood-slat paneling on the fireplace wall, creating a rich and moody atmosphere. The living room, featuring nearly 17-foot-high ceilings and east-facing windows overlooking a golf course, was enhanced with two layers of curtains: sheer white for sun protection and privacy, and gray for added drama. A brick wall was covered with a lime slurry to soften its overwhelming presence. To make the voluminous room feel cozy, Haddad introduced oversized furniture, dividing the space into two seating areas: a corner sectional and armchairs for television viewing, and a pair of leather U-shaped barrel chairs for more private conversations. A lightweight wooden bench provides additional seating. In the dining room, Haddad maintained the home's 1980s walled-off layout, creating a distinct moment. She color-drenched the formal dining room in charcoal to contrast with the home's predominantly white walls. Cream-toned drapes and dining chairs, along with a unique dragonfly-inspired chandelier, were added to soften the moody tones of the room. The kitchen's renovation focused on symmetry and functionality. Square footage from the garage was reallocated to expand the kitchen, allowing for more cabinetry, counter space, and a standalone island. The range was centered on the back wall, and a new window was added to the sink wall for improved balance and natural light. The custom-designed island base accommodates inward-facing chairs, fostering better conversation among family members. Quartzite surfaces with subtle green veining pay homage to the home's original green countertops. Triangular zellige backsplash on the sink wall adds dimension, while black square zellige tile at the coffee station creates a cohesive link with the lounge bar. Finally, the powder bathroom received a luxurious update. The oversized mirror was replaced with a framed, arched version, and floor-to-ceiling Ann Sacks wall tile was installed, creating a "jewel box" effect for guests. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RusticModern #BeforeAndAfter #WestminsterHome #PeggyHaddadInteriors #KitchenRemodel #LivingRoomDesign #DiningRoomTransformation

This article details the comprehensive renovation of a century-old Sydney home, originally built in 1914, transforming it into a modern family residence. The property, located on a corner block near Centennial Park, underwent extensive refurbishment after being purchased in 2017 by a young professional couple. The house was in a state of disrepair, requiring new wiring, plumbing, a new kitchen, and repairs to a collapsing ceiling. The owners enlisted architect Carla Middleton to oversee the project, aiming to create a 'forever home' suitable for a growing family. Middleton describes the original house as dilapidated but an amazing blank canvas. The renovation strategy involved reducing the number of bedrooms from six to three, which would be housed in a newly constructed second storey. Conversely, the number of bathrooms was increased to four, plus a powder room, emphasizing quality over quantity in terms of sleeping quarters. On the ground level, the design focused on creating expansive living areas. The original front rooms were preserved and repurposed as family rooms, a study, and a sitting room. Great care was taken to restore original features such as skirtings, cornices, fireplaces, and stained-glass windows, maintaining the home's historic charm. A key design objective was to implement an open-plan living concept, moving away from the smaller, separated rooms of the previous home. The new extension at the rear features an 11x8-meter living space that seamlessly connects to a sun-drenched deck. Given the home's north-south orientation, a primary goal was to maximize natural light in this area. Carla Middleton achieved this through a striking void space that reaches 6.7 meters at its highest point and extensive glazing. This design ensures that the northern light floods the living/dining area and extends to the upstairs bedrooms overlooking the void. The exterior of the extension, clad in James Hardie Scyon cement-composite boards, contrasts with the original brick structure while subtly referencing its form through a new roofline composed of three gables. These gables correspond to the kitchen, dining, and living zones downstairs. The original hallway was also maintained as a central axis, creating a clear vista from the front door to the light-filled rear living space. For the interior design, Carla Middleton collaborated with the owners to establish a palette that blends her neutral, natural material preference with their crisp, contemporary style and appreciation for darker tones. This resulted in an interplay of black, white, and mid-grey hues, complemented by stone elements throughout the home. The kitchen, a focal point for entertaining, exemplifies this blend with black and white cabinetry by Holtz Joinery and Elba marble benchtops and splashback, featuring a substantial 4x1.3-meter island bench. The renovation was completed as the family grew, with the owners welcoming two children during the project, making the newly transformed space a comfortable and functional home. #HomeRenovation #HistoricHome #ModernExtension #SydneyArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #NaturalLightDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CarlaMiddletonArchitect #AustralianHomes

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

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

Ella and David Moore purchased their Victorian home in Manchester in 2017. Although it featured a 1980s two-storey rear extension, the property was in need of modernization and personalization. The couple spent the first year developing plans for improvements, aiming to reconfigure the layout to better suit their lifestyle rather than simply adding more space. Key structural changes included removing walls to create a large open-plan kitchen by combining the original kitchen, dining room, and a small reception area. Additional modifications involved the integration of a downstairs toilet and hallway, a new porch, and a utility room. The front door was also relocated from the center to the side of the house, which required obtaining planning permission. While the back of the house was designed as a sociable, open-plan area connected to the garden, the living room at the front was intentionally kept as a cozier, separate space. Upstairs, one of the three existing bedrooms was reconfigured to create a dressing room and an office for David. Two en-suites were installed, and the main bathroom was relocated to optimize the guest bedroom layout. The renovation process began a year after they moved in, with Ella managing the project and designing the layout, while an architectural technician drafted plans for planning permission. The couple approached the renovation without rushing, paying meticulous attention to detail, which included selecting traditional-style radiators, brushed-metal light switches, and beehive door handles. Most of the work was completed by the end of 2019, with the main bathroom remaining as one of the few areas yet to be finished. Exterior enhancements included replacing the modern uPVC windows at the front with traditional-style sash windows and installing contemporary aluminum windows at the back. The garden was also a focus of Ella's design efforts. Her passion for garden design and sourcing houseplants led her to establish an indoor plant business, Ella’s Garden, during the lockdown, which quickly became successful. In 2022, she expanded her entrepreneurial ventures by co-founding a crafting workshop business with a friend. Ella’s decorating approach was guided by instinct, favoring warm tones and complementary shades. She frequently used pinks and oranges alongside dark greens and blues and opted for warm neutrals as a backdrop instead of stark whites. To ensure continuity throughout the ground floor, engineered wood parquet planks were laid, with rugs used to add color, texture, and define zones within the open-plan areas. Ella emphasizes the importance of definition in open-plan spaces and the need for tidiness. In the kitchen, she maintains a minimalist aesthetic on the countertops, displaying only frequently used items. However, she is an avid collector of vintage items and souvenirs from her travels, frequently rearranging her favorite pieces on open shelves to keep the displays fresh and personal. She values showcasing these treasures, believing it contributes to a home's warmth. The article also provides a brief tour of other areas of the house, including the hallway, spare bedroom, main en-suite, and landing. The hallway features glazed French doors to maximize brightness, complemented by bare brick walls, scaffolding shelves, and vintage furniture. The spare bedroom includes a bed reupholstered in a leather-effect fabric. The main en-suite is painted in Card Room Green from Farrow & Ball and is equipped with a basin and vanity unit from Drench, a House Doctor mirror, Nordlux pendant lights, a Rose & Grey wire shelving unit, and Tile Mountain floor tiles. The landing showcases a vibrant lime green chair against a deep teal wall, illustrating Ella’s continued use of bold color and personal touches throughout the home. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #BiophilicDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #VintageDecor #Houseplants #OpenPlanLiving #HomeMakeover

This article details the transformation of a 19th-century Federal-style town house in New York’s West Village by SPAN Architecture, converting it from multi-family apartments into a single-family residence. The original structure, an 1820s building, presented challenges such as deep lots leading to dark interiors, insufficient natural light on lower floors, and low ceilings. Recognizing these limitations and the absence of significant period details for restoration, principals Peter Pelsinski and Karen Stonely opted for a comprehensive gut renovation. A key aspect of the renovation capitalized on the property’s 60-foot backyard, enabling the architects to extend the first two floors by 30 feet while preserving ample outdoor space. To enhance the connection to the garden, the rear facade was removed, a second-floor terrace was added, and full-height windows were installed facing north, integrating modern design elements while respecting the historic lines of the surrounding houses. Internally, the building lacked a cellar, prompting excavation to create one. The roof was also leveled, increasing interior height by nearly eight feet, which required careful restructuring of ceilings to align with the existing front facade windows. The result is a 5,800-square-foot, four-bedroom home spanning five levels, featuring ceilings over ten feet high on the parlor floor, yet maintaining an unaltered exterior appearance. The interior design consciously blends traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Given the project's spec nature, a neutral palette was chosen, featuring white oak floors that establish a fluid connection between spaces. Subtle historical references are incorporated through baseboards, trim, and crown moldings. The steel-and-oak staircase, while traditional in form, lacks nosing and respects the original footprint, complemented by skylights that draw natural light deep into the lower levels, giving the house an “extroverted character” as Pelsinski describes. The property was acquired by a young family who enlisted Moises Esquenazi of Waowig Studio for interior decoration, providing him considerable artistic freedom. Esquenazi focused on creating inviting spaces that would complement the family’s art collection. His design approach included bold choices, such as a fuchsia-colored den, intended as a lively focal point upon entry. This vibrant room sets a playful tone for the rest of the home, which integrates contemporary Latin American art with pieces by mid-century designers like Milo Baughman and Pierre Guariche. Esquenazi also designed custom furnishings, including a lacquered-goatskin dining table, drawing inspiration from the 1970s. Two years after the family moved in, SPAN Architecture was re-engaged to modernize the kitchen and expand the master bathroom into a spa-like retreat, concluding a decade-long project. The revitalized town house now offers a bright, open living environment, seamlessly integrated into its urban setting while providing ample personal space. #TownHouseRenovation #SPANArchitecture #WestVillage #HistoricHome #ModernInteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #NaturalLight #InteriorRenovation #LuxuryHomes

Joelle Bradley and Brad Anderson meticulously renovated their 1968 Burnaby home, transforming it from a 'time-capsule' with green carpeting and a sparkly popcorn ceiling into a modernized mid-century California rancher. The couple purchased the home in 2008, recognizing its strong architectural 'bones' and potential. Situated on an 8,000-square-foot terraced property overlooking Deer Lake Park, the 1,400-square-foot residence also featured a large, unfinished basement with high ceilings and a walkout to the backyard. Bradley, an enthusiast of mid-century modern architecture and collectibles, and an avid follower of retrorenovation.com, collaborated with architect Randy Bens and contractor Alan O’Rourke Construction. Their vision was to create a warm, period-appropriate modern aesthetic rather than a stark, minimalist contemporary design. A key consideration for the renovation, which was completed in stages over three years, was future accessibility; they planned for all essential living spaces to be on the main floor to accommodate potential health changes. The renovation began with the kitchen, which was redesigned as a galley kitchen featuring Nano glass doors that fold open to extend the living space onto the terrace, facilitating easy outdoor entertaining. The kitchen's design prominently incorporates avocado green quartz countertops from HanStone Quartz and cherry wood cabinetry, a nod to the color palettes of the late 1960s and 70s. The original linoleum flooring was replaced with Flexitec vinyl flooring that includes a subtle sparkle, echoing the mica glitter floors popular in the 60s. The open-concept living and dining areas received an environmentally friendly update with bamboo flooring laid diagonally. The original wood-burning fireplace was converted to gas, and natural light floods the space through multiple windows and a patio door leading to the upper deck. The master bedroom, located on the top floor, was transformed into a private sanctuary with bamboo flooring, vaulted ceilings, and an eggplant and buttercup yellow color scheme. The ensuite bathroom, originally a bedroom, was made wheelchair accessible, and a spacious dressing room with built-in storage was added. For their professional and personal pursuits, Bradley and Anderson developed home offices in the finished basement, which also serve as guest bedrooms. Anderson, a business instructor and science fiction writer, now has a dedicated space for writing his novel, 'Duataro,' while Bradley utilizes hers for sewing and gardening. The exterior of the home also underwent a significant renovation, with architect Randy Bens aiming for a long, low, and sleek modern look. This involved removing the gable roof above the carport and extending a new flat roofline. A trellis was incorporated over the kitchen’s terrace to diffuse light and define the outdoor space, while geometric concrete floral breeze blocks were used for partial privacy, a nod to 1960s decorative trends. A subtle ramp-like slope, instead of stairs, leads to the entry, reflecting the owners' forward-thinking approach to accessibility. The owners expressed their profound satisfaction with the renovation, intending to remain in their updated home indefinitely. Bradley also shared renovation advice, including starting early if moving out is necessary, using materials creatively for continuity and cost savings, finding reliable décor sources, and considering future needs during planning. #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #BurnabyRealEstate #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #AccessibilityDesign #SustainableMaterials #ExteriorRedesign #RetroInspired

In San Francisco’s Alamo Square, builder John Conomos and his wife Amanda undertook the ambitious project of restoring a Victorian home adjacent to their own, driven by a desire to preserve the city’s architectural heritage. The house, built in 1889, had a rich history, once owned by Verta Vinson, a prominent advocate for Victorian preservation in the 1950s. Over the decades, the home had suffered significant alterations, including stucco and cedar shingle facades, which obscured its original Victorian Stick style. The Conomos family enlisted Jensen Architects to lead a comprehensive reimagining of the property. The initial phase of the restoration focused on the exterior, which lacked historical integrity. Guided by the city’s Historic Preservation Commission, the team removed non-historic coverings to uncover original architectural clues, including shadow lines of former trims and moldings. Historic photographs and details found on an intact east facade were critical in reconstructing the original facade. Skeeter Jones of Clearheart Fine Design and Building, known for his Victorian restoration work, meticulously resurrected the facade, improvising where historical evidence was inconclusive but maintaining an "of the period" aesthetic. Deviations from the original design were subtle and strategic, such as replacing a street-level bay window with a garage for functional necessity and incorporating more formidable, thicker handrails and an arched entry. The facade was ultimately painted a semi-reflective silver, a contemporary choice that offered a nuanced metallic sheen without resorting to traditional Victorian color palettes or the increasingly common all-black trend. Turning to the interior, the Conomos family decided to make the renovated Victorian their new home, driven by the desire for a more cohesive living dynamic than their previous house offered. The design priorities were maximizing light and views and fostering social togetherness. A striking sculptural staircase, clad in fumed and stained oak, became a central design element. Initially conceived as a light well, it evolved into an architectural focal point, with its complex, asymmetric design intended to encourage social interaction through spacious landings and integrated nooks. The design process involved extensive renderings and meticulous fabrication by Hayasa Flooring Design, resulting in a unique structure where no two levels are identical. Further enhancing light penetration, an elevator with a glass cab and exposed mechanical elements functions as a vertical light tunnel. The already high Victorian ceilings were extended vertically into the attic space, significantly expanding the third-floor living area. Walkable glass skylights were strategically placed on the roof and third floor to filter natural light to the lower levels. A reverse floor plan was implemented, positioning social spaces like the kitchen, family room, and sunroom on the upper floors to capitalize on views and light, while bedrooms occupied the lower levels. The kitchen’s modern design features a muted palette with a bold pop of teal on the central island, influencing the interior’s overall color scheme. Interior designer Holly Hulburd of Hulburd Design collaborated on a minimalist design palette, ensuring that furnishings and materials complemented the home’s architecture. Bold textures and green hues were strategically introduced for depth. Private spaces, including the master bedroom and bathroom, were designed for functionality and intimacy, reflecting the family’s desire for communal living rather than isolation. The rear facade, a blank slate, allowed for contemporary innovation. Jensen Architects proposed a metal cladding system of laser-cut aluminum screens on motorized sliders, offering privacy, light control, and an interactive element. This facade also features a cantilevered bump-out with seamless glass corners, maximizing views. The compact backyard was transformed by landscape architects Surfacedesign and Habitat Horticulture with a living wall and patterned pavers. The roof deck, a complex 3D jigsaw puzzle due to the home's geometry, was ultimately unified with the elevator and staircase, offering sweeping downtown views while adhering to height restrictions. The completed Alamo Square Residence masterfully blends historical reverence with modern functionality, creating a warm and innovative family home that respects San Francisco’s rich architectural past while embracing contemporary design principles. #VictorianRenovation #HistoricPreservation #ModernArchitecture #FamilyHomeDesign #SanFranciscoHomes #ArchitecturalTransformation #InteriorDesign #LightMaximization #SustainableDesign

Erin Hiemstra, founder of the design website Apartment 34, acquired an 1850s Victorian home in San Francisco's Bayview neighborhood after two years of searching and being outbid on other properties. The house, discovered by her husband through an unofficial 'For Sale' sign, offered a unique opportunity for a full-scale renovation despite its initial dilapidated state. The property featured charming period details such as arched windows, a clapboard exterior, vast bay windows, transoms, original glass and brass doorknobs, and crown molding, alongside significant drawbacks like crumbling ceilings, scratched floors, a makeshift staircase banister, walls painted in 'insane colors,' a mismatched kitchen, and garish 1970s fireplaces. Hiemstra, whose background includes a career in politics and experience with cosmetic design projects, embarked on this extensive renovation as a self-taught designer. She had previously launched Apartment 34 based on her experiences decorating rental lofts and a condo. For this project, she enlisted architect Seth Brookshire, branding the endeavor "This Old Victorian" on her blog. The initial phase focused on meticulously preserving and restoring the home's original features, including rebuilding ceiling medallions, maintaining moldings, ensuring pocket door functionality with original hardware, and restoring fireplaces to their Victorian-era style. Undertaking the renovation without a general contractor, Hiemstra leveraged resources like Google, Instagram, local Bayview shops, and her DIY-savvy husband to source builders and materials. She also educated herself on technical aspects such as electrical plans, wallboards, insulation, permits, and stone sizes. Despite her diligent efforts, the renovation encountered challenges, including a wood floor stain that required redoing, extending a days-long task into weeks, and a rushed decision-making process for light fixtures while six weeks postpartum. The couple successfully modernized the home for their family of three and a French bulldog puppy while retaining its historic essence. This involved reconfiguring the layout by removing walls downstairs to create an open-plan kitchen, family room, and dining room, and redesigning the second floor to include a master suite and an additional bathroom. These changes resulted in a seamless flow between rooms, a significant departure from the original 1800s American architectural style. Hiemstra's design approach blended European and West Coast influences. The interior features pale wood floors, high-gloss black window frames, and matte white walls, creating a mellow palette that allows decor elements to stand out. Modern light fixtures are juxtaposed with decorative Victorian ceiling medallions in rooms with 12-foot ceilings. The integration of a double-width windowed steel door leading to the media room, alongside classic white molding and a window above the industrial door that mimics original transoms, exemplifies the successful fusion of new and old. Inspired by her travels to Sweden and Denmark, Hiemstra emphasized intentional design and the use of negative space to highlight individual objects. The home showcases a curated mix of items, including mid-century seating and artwork from Elsie Green, an 1890s French gilded mirror from 1stdibs, and a vintage Dutch rattan-and-wool chair from Amsterdam Modern. Custom furniture, such as couches and beds, were commissioned to suit the scale of the architecture. Hiemstra's meticulous approach extends to accessorizing, where she acts as a detective to find sources for interesting items and continually adjusts vignettes to achieve a perfectly balanced, understated yet bold aesthetic. The five-year renovation underscores that creating a truly special home requires significant time and effort, debunking the myth of quick and cheap transformations often portrayed in media. #VictorianRenovation #HomeTransformation #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #DIYRenovation #SanFranciscoHomes #ModernVictorian #DesignInspiration #OpenConceptLiving

Zen Architects, a Melbourne-based firm with 30 years of experience combining science and art in sustainably minded projects, undertook a comprehensive renovation of an early 1900s Victorian home in Brunswick. The property, untouched for five decades and slated for demolition due to asbestos, was purchased by clients who sought an architect willing to execute a challenging renovation emphasizing local materials, recycled timber, and space for an art studio. The clients desired a design that respected the original cottage's form and detailing, diverging from the prevalent trend of demolishing Victorians for new, often insensitive, developments in an area without historic controls. The project spanned nearly three years, including 18 months of design and documentation and 14 months of construction. The initial phase focused on preserving the original structure. This involved restoring the weatherboard exterior, original Baltic pine timber flooring, and Victorian details. The interior plaster was removed, walls were reinsulated, and windows reglazed. The eastern portion of the roofline was raised to accommodate higher ceilings. To maintain the property's heritage value, all new construction was set back behind the original chimney line. The design team reconfigured the front four rooms: two became bedrooms, one a bathroom, and the fourth a front living room featuring a wood-burning fireplace that utilized the existing chimney. From the light-filled foyer, residents can now access the kitchen, a double-height dining room, and a sunken conversation pit, all offering views of the garden. Throughout the renovation, Zen Architects prioritized local sourcing. Custom lighting was crafted from solid brass, and internal recycled timber details, such as shelving, were produced by local furniture makers. The bathrooms feature custom handmade tiles from a South Melbourne ceramicist, and all fixtures and fittings were also locally sourced. The kitchen incorporates a solid concrete island counter designed for passive heating and cooling; it warms naturally in the summer, and a concealed black heat panel beneath the slab absorbs and releases heat in the winter. An adjacent art studio benefits from ambient diffused south-facing light, providing an ideal space for various artistic pursuits. This project demonstrates a successful approach to sensitively transforming Victorian homes to meet contemporary living standards while adhering to principles of sustainability and local craftsmanship. #VictorianRenovation #SustainableDesign #ZenArchitects #MelbourneArchitecture #HistoricPreservation #RecycledMaterials #LocalCraftsmanship #HomeRetrofit #ArtStudio

This article explores the renovation philosophy of designer Mark Lewis, who prioritizes respecting the existing architecture and age of a property rather than striving for a new, shiny aesthetic. Lewis, who founded his eponymous firm in 2008 and later launched a home store specializing in sand-cast bronze hardware, emphasizes the difficulty of finding finishes that appear aged, leading him to create his own. His guiding principle is to avoid anything that "screams 'shiny.'" The renovation of Lewis's Victorian row home in North London exemplifies this approach. In 2010, he and his partner, Abi Leland, began by purchasing the garden-level apartment and patiently waited five years to acquire the unit above, recognizing its value for their expansion plans. An extensive eight-month remodel followed, during which they moved out with their two children, James and Olive. The renovation involved integrating the two apartments, creating a striking double-height space with triptych windows overlooking the backyard. A distinctive feature of Lewis's design is the absence of a kitchen island and upper cabinets. His goal is for the kitchen to appear as freestanding as possible, as if it could be moved. To align with the house's historical era, he installed base cabinets along a single wall, extending approximately 8 meters, and mounted floating shelves precisely 55 centimeters from the countertop. These base cabinets are finished with an aged paint effect and feature hand-cast bronze cup handles. The kitchen space also incorporates functional elements like task lighting under concrete slabs, providing a soft glow, and a separate walk-in pantry designed to evoke a sense of stepping back 70 years, filled with fresh produce and minimal packaging. The living room reflects Lewis's aversion to modern technology, specifically televisions. Instead of a "black box," the cozy space features a wood-burning stove. For family movie nights or sports viewing, they utilize his son James's bedroom, which houses a large television. Olive's smaller room necessitated creative storage solutions, leading Lewis to design a custom built-in bunk bed with drawers that fits seamlessly into an alcove, topped with a slightly undersized twin mattress. The bedrooms are adorned with wallpapers from Robert Kime and painted in shades like Little Greene's French Grey and Normandy Grey, with furniture and accessories from Mark Lewis Home Store and Conran Shop. Lewis's favorite part of the house is the primary bathroom, which includes a fireplace to ensure warmth after using the cast-iron tub. He sourced the Art Nouveau-style mantel from a salvage shop, a significant investment at the time that he now cherishes. A vintage French chair in the corner has been updated with a brightly colored felt cushion by artist Laura Lees. Lewis demonstrates a keen eye for finding vintage pieces, with blackened steel stair railings held by antique brass screws and a powder bathroom that combines reclaimed tiles, the home's original brick, and wood from a previous kitchen floor, resulting in a unique blend of textures that appear to have been part of the house for centuries. His design ethos consistently aims to imbue new elements with an appearance of age and history, respecting the inherent character of the property. #HomeRenovation #VintageDesign #InteriorDesign #VictorianHome #AgedFinishes #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #CustomFurniture #NorthLondon

This article provides a detailed tour of a Victorian semi-detached house located in south-east London, showcasing various decorating ideas and design choices implemented throughout its update. The property features a hallway, living room, open-plan kitchen-diner, cloakroom, four bedrooms, a bathroom, and a shower room. The exterior of the house maintains its traditional brick wall and black slate roof. Inside, the living room is designed with a serene ambiance, characterized by a large monochrome rug and vibrant pink accents that add a pop of color against white walls. The furniture selection blends mid-century modern pieces with vintage items, creating a utilitarian feel. Key items in the living room include a rug from Ikea and a floor lamp from Sainsbury's. The living space was expanded by combining two smaller living rooms into one open-plan area, with furniture strategically arranged to define natural zones. Lighting is provided by a lamp from Lights 4 Living, and several pieces of furniture, including a lamp, chairs, and a table, were upcycled by Imperfect Interiors. The kitchen features painted cabinetry, marble counters, and pale-colored metro tiles, contributing to a clean and simple aesthetic. The kitchen units were sanded down and repainted, and customized tongue-and-groove end panels were added. A practical built-in banquette with seat pads and floral fabric is also present. The tiles used in the kitchen are from Fired Earth. Adjoining the kitchen is the dining area, where built-in banquette seating maximizes space efficiency. A rectangular dining table is chosen to accommodate multiple people without encroaching too much on the floor area. The dining space is adorned with pretty bench and scatter cushions, along with a patchwork rug, which introduce patterns in subtle shades. The dining chair is from The Conran Shop, and a box wall light is from Heal's. Moving to the bedrooms, the guest bedroom offers a relaxed, modern-country atmosphere. It features a floral bedspread, a vintage sofa, and an eclectic assortment of accessories. Neutral walls allow unique, design-led pieces and curios to stand out. An Ikea rug is also found in this room. The main bedroom employs a subtle palette of pale greys and off-whites to foster a peaceful environment. A feature fireplace with a stylish overmantel mirror serves as a focal point. The bed is sourced from Sofa.com, and a floor lamp is from Habitat. Finally, the bathroom is designed with tongue-and-groove panelling and geometric tiling, which complement the traditional fittings. Glazed cabinets are incorporated to add a decorative element. The tiles are from Topps Tiles, and the bath is from Victoria Plumb. The article aims to inspire readers with practical and aesthetic home decoration and design choices demonstrated in this updated London home. #PeriodHouse #LondonHome #VictorianRenovation #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomIdeas #BedroomDecor #BathroomDesign