Peek Inside the Eclectic Interiors of 3 Historic Central Gardens Homes

The article showcases three distinct home renovation projects in the DC area that integrate aging-in-place features with stylish design, demonstrating that accessibility can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing. These projects challenge the traditional notion that aging-in-place updates must be clinical or compromise on flair. The first featured home is a 1958 midcentury-modern house in Chevy Chase, which underwent a comprehensive interior overhaul led by TeassWarren Architects. The primary goal was to make the house more easily navigable for its owners as they age. This involved creating a spacious primary suite on the main level, widening hallways, and redesigning the primary bathroom. The bathroom now boasts a zero-threshold shower, allowing for wheelchair access, and is accented with blue subway tiles that extend behind a wood double vanity, reflecting the home's midcentury aesthetic. This design choice ensures that the accessible features blend seamlessly with the overall modern design, avoiding a sterile, institutional feel. Additional modifications include an ADA-compliant toilet and a smart shower system controllable via an app. The architect emphasizes that simple, anticipatory measures like installing lever handles and wood blocking for future grab bars can be implemented with minimal cost and effort, highlighting that universal design elements can be easily incorporated into any home renovation. The second project focuses on a traditional-style house in Northwest DC's Kent neighborhood, where the homeowners embraced a vibrant and whimsical approach to their aging-in-place renovations. Due to the husband's balance issues, an elevator became a necessity to ensure safe movement between floors and for transporting groceries and luggage. InSite Builders & Remodeling designed a two-story expansion at the back of the house to accommodate the elevator shaft, which needed to be at least 30 feet tall. This addition also created a new entrance hall for the existing upstairs suite and a main-level office. Interior designer Adele McDonald infused the new office with character, using cranberry-hued furniture and bold red walls. The walnut desk in the office is designed to allow for eventual wheelchair access. The elevator itself features a playful touch with Spoonflower wallpaper adorned with colorful dog illustrations, transforming a functional space into an engaging and cheerful experience. The third example details the transformation of a Bethesda property. An older couple, deeply attached to their neighborhood, faced challenges with their previous 1960s center-hall Colonial, which had a dramatic hillside grade, a steep driveway that became dangerous in winter, and multiple steps both inside and outside, along with a second-floor primary bedroom. Instead of moving, they opted to raze the old structure and build a new contemporary-style home tailored to their evolving needs and tastes. Kube Architecture, led by principal Janet Bloomberg, designed a streamlined residence featuring an open floor plan and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, particularly on the rear facade. This modern design not only aligns with contemporary aesthetics but also enhances accessibility and provides peace of mind through clear sightlines throughout the home. Physical adjustments included regrading the property around the garage, entryway, and backyard, and widening all interior pathways. The design also incorporated framing for a future elevator and integrated automation systems for controlling temperature, stereo, shades, and lights. Crucially, the owners' suite was placed on the main level, reserving the second floor for guests, ensuring long-term comfort and convenience. #AgingInPlace #AccessibleDesign #HomeRenovation #MidcenturyModern #ContemporaryHome #UniversalDesign #DCRealEstate #InteriorDesign #HomeAutomation

The author recounts an unsolicited design suggestion from a real estate agent regarding their newly purchased historic home in Grant Park. The agent, having been inside the house, commented on its layout and recommended "opening things up." The house, dating back to approximately 1905, is described as being narrow and long, with a distinct division: a long hallway on the right and a series of small rooms off to its left. This unique layout, alongside an inexplicable finished attic without stairs, gives the house a peculiar and somewhat awkward character when compared to modern, open-concept homes frequently showcased on home improvement television programs. Initially, the author and their husband considered following the common trend of knocking down walls to create a more open, airy living space, aiming to merge the two small front rooms. However, after receiving an prohibitively expensive quote from an architect for such modifications, they began to reconsider. This high cost prompted them to question the fundamental idea of extensively altering a 115-year-old home, pondering whether it would be more practical to purchase a different property or build a new one altogether if such significant changes were truly desired. They questioned the wisdom of treating their historic residence like an expensive Lego set, implying that such extensive renovations would strip it of its inherent character. Over time, as they settled into their new home, the couple's perspective shifted. They unpacked, observed the previous owner’s bearded irises bloom, got married, and hosted numerous gatherings, including Thanksgivings, cookouts, and overnight guests. Through daily living, they discovered the unique qualities and functions of each room, identifying which spaces were suitable for houseplants and which were ideal for leisurely activities like watching Netflix. They even addressed a practical issue by replacing a rickety attic ladder with more substantial stairs, although not the grand staircase they had once envisioned. Crucially, the idea of demolishing walls faded entirely. The author notes that they not only abandoned the plan but also developed a profound appreciation for the existing structure. They realized that the separate rooms provided a sense of order and distinct purpose that an open-concept layout, with its emphasis on light and spaciousness, could not offer. For instance, one room became a dedicated space for entertaining guests with cocktails, while another served as a cozy retreat for casual activities like Netflix binges and takeout meals, each possessing its own "distinctive personality and purpose." This division, initially perceived as a drawback, became a cherished feature. The author expresses gratitude for not having had the financial means to carry out the initial renovation plans, believing that such changes would have forced the "creaky, lovely old house" into an identity it was not meant to embody. They observe a common trend on real estate platforms like Zillow, where historic homes are often stripped of their original character to align with modern preferences for convenience and an apparent aversion to distinct rooms. The article concludes with a firm declaration that as long as they reside in the house, its walls will remain intact, honoring its century-long history. A practical solution to the awkward layout of a bedroom leading to the backyard, which might typically prompt remodeling, is also highlighted: simply making the bed before guests arrive proves to be a more straightforward and economical alternative. #HistoricHomes #GrantPark #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #HouseLayout #ArchitecturalPreservation #OpenConcept #Homeownership

The Houston Estate project, located in a lush Houston neighborhood, exemplifies a seamless integration of traditional and modern design elements, creating a distinctive aesthetic that also showcases the client’s art collection. The entryway sets a grand tone with oversized custom steel doors and plaster walls, a recurring design feature throughout the home. A custom staircase, eclectic artwork, and a floral sofa contribute to a bold, inviting atmosphere, complemented by reclaimed octagon and dot tile from Italy, adding warmth and historical character. The formal dining room features grasscloth wallpaper matching the wood trim, producing a dramatic effect. Each furniture piece in this room is a statement, including a solid travertine table seating eight in velvet barrel-back chairs, and a custom console with a carved wave design. A personalized cupboard was also built to display the client’s china collection. In contrast, the formal living room opts for intricate millwork instead of grasscloth, presenting a color-drenched space where walls, ceiling, and drapes share the same hue, creating a sophisticated and dramatic ambiance. Furniture groupings in this room are arranged around a central fireplace, optimizing both aesthetics and functionality. The kitchen is a custom-designed space, rich with marble and tailored to the height of the homeowner, former MLB player Jason Castro. Details such as a bullnosed countertop profile, bookmatched backsplash, integrated marble sink, and hand-painted plug-in covers reflect meticulous craftsmanship. Oak cabinetry and a black Lacanche range complete the culinary area. The adjacent pantry is notable for its abundant natural light, dark blue cabinetry, soapstone countertops, and brass hardware, creating a moody yet stylish storage solution. An oversized vintage rug adds texture and patina. A casual breakfast nook, located off the kitchen, features a light fixture that harmonizes brass and darker metals, linking it with the kitchen's design. Seating includes comfortable, durable chairs with leather seats and plaid upholstered backs, chosen for a family with young children. Artwork by Tyler Guinn and a Heath Oak Cabinet from McGee & Co. enhance the space. The family room, a more relaxed gathering area, incorporates pieces from Round Top, Texas, and a vintage rug that informs the room's color palette. A curved-back sectional with crypton fabric offers durability, while the fireplace, with its fluted front, curved sides, and reclaimed fire brick, is a focal point. Styled built-ins provide display space for collectibles. The primary suite is designed as a serene retreat with a vaulted ceiling and a fireplace. Its neutral palette of browns, greens, creams, and moody blues is layered with custom millwork and relaxed drapes matching the wall color. Abstract artwork by Kimberly Moore is intentionally scaled smaller above the bed. The primary bathroom features unique elements such as a mixed metal vanity and plaster walls and ceilings between wood beams. The guest bedroom offers a calm and serene environment with ample natural light from windows on two sides. It is furnished with McGee & Co.'s Sutherland Bed and luxurious bedding. The ensuite bathroom features contrast trim derived from the wallpaper and a Calcutta marble-topped vanity. The study is dedicated to displaying the homeowner's baseball memorabilia, including Jason Castro's MLB career mementos and a World Series trophy. A herringbone wood floor with a brass inlay defines the room. The playroom features a distinctive wallpapered ceiling and various nooks for children's activities, including a firepole leading to a netted loft and built-in shelving for toys and books. The girls' room is characterized by a bold wallpaper dictating a soft pink contrast trim, layering pattern on pattern for a playful effect. The ensuite bathroom extends the trim color to the walls for cohesion, and an arched shower entry creates an artistic focal point. The boys' room utilizes a dramatic, high-contrast paint color derived from the upholstered headboard, which is complemented by a display of baseball hats as art. Its ensuite bathroom has subway tile throughout and a strategically placed vanity and mirror in front of a window. In the nursery, design elements such as wallpaper with contrast trim and a paneled ceiling are echoed from other areas of the home. The crib is positioned as the focal point for both aesthetic and practical reasons. The laundry room is designed to be a pleasant space, featuring wallpaper, patterned floors, and soft-colored cabinetry. A bold floral pattern is mixed with a geometric one, unified by a cohesive color palette. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TraditionalModernMix #HoustonEstate #FamilyHomeDesign #CustomInteriors #LuxuryDesign #ResidentialDesign #RoombyRoomDesign

This comprehensive guide explores 31 popular architectural house styles found throughout the United States, providing detailed descriptions and historical context for each. The article begins by outlining key factors to consider when identifying a home's style, such as materials, window and door details, roof style, facade structures, number of stories, and construction era. It then delves into a diverse range of styles, starting with the iconic Cape Cod, characterized by its story-and-a-half structure, dormers, symmetrical windows, and central doorway. Originating in the late 17th century from English settlers, Cape Cods became particularly popular in the 1950s. The Victorian style, spanning the early 1800s to early 1900s, is presented as an era of design rather than a single style, known for its ornate gables, steeply pitched roofs, turrets, and intricate details. Colonial homes, dating back to the 17th century, are discussed in their various forms, emphasizing their rectangular shape, symmetry, and features like gabled roofs, window grids, and brick facades. The American Craftsman style, emerging in the early 20th century, highlights front porches, wide eaves, exposed beams, and open floor plans, with a strong focus on natural materials and earthy color palettes. Prairie-style homes, inspired by nature and Frank Lloyd Wright's innovative designs, are noted for handcrafted details, simple woodwork, stained glass, and built-in furniture, primarily found in the Midwest. Ranch homes, popular from the 1930s onwards, are described as single-story or split-level houses with open floor plans, large front windows, and low-pitched roofs. Tudor-style homes are easily identifiable by their dark timber details against light stucco and ornate brickwork, often found in colder northern climates. Mediterranean-style homes feature warm tones, stucco exteriors, and ornamental details in tile and woodwork, designed to be open and airy, gaining popularity in warmer U.S. regions. Modern architecture, influenced by the 1930s modernism movement, emphasizes clean lines, functional design, modern materials like concrete and steel, and minimal ornamentation. Contemporary architecture is presented as an overarching term for current trendy building styles, focusing on connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, sustainability, and energy efficiency. The article continues to describe farmhouse styles, cottages, cabins, and rowhouses, each with their unique characteristics and historical origins. It then explores more historically inspired styles like Greek Revival, French Country, Saltbox, and Art Deco, highlighting their distinctive features and prevalence in different regions or periods. Further architectural styles covered include Queen Anne, Italianate, Eastlake, Romanesque Revival, Gothic Revival, Tudor Revival, Midcentury Modern, Federal, Neoclassical, French Provincial, Asian, Pueblo Revival, and Bungalow. Each description details the key visual elements, historical context, and geographical prevalence of these architectural styles across the United States. The article concludes by addressing frequently asked questions about the most common, newest, and timeless house styles in America, emphasizing the diversity and evolution of residential architecture. #ArchitecturalStyles #HomeDesign #HouseStyles #InteriorDecorating #HistoricHomes #ModernArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #CraftsmanHomes #VictorianHomes

This article highlights the extensive renovation of an E. B. Green-designed home in Buffalo's Delaware District, owned by Frank and Leah Ewing. The Renaissance-style house, built in 1920, blends historical grandeur with modern aesthetics, achieving a unique balance between classic charm and contemporary living. The Ewings, who stumbled upon the property through an online listing, recognized its potential and embarked on a comprehensive overhaul in collaboration with West End Interiors. The renovation began with a planned attic refresh but quickly expanded into a near-complete home transformation, lasting approximately 10 to 11 months. Raelynn Capozzi, principal designer and owner of West End Interiors, spearheaded the project, focusing on creating a cohesive and personalized living space. A key starting point for the attic's design was a whimsical Schumacher wallpaper, which dictated the color palette for the wainscoting and the selection of custom fabrics for pillows, establishing a fairytale-like atmosphere. The attic features exposed brick and vault ceilings in the guest bedrooms, harmonized with soft textures and thoughtful accents. Sun-drenched reading nooks, complemented by traditional wall sconces, add to the cozy yet elegant ambiance. A central goal of the renovation was to restore traditional features that had been lost over time while incorporating the Ewings' personal style. This involved replacing all interior doors with new red oak doors fitted with crystal knobs, mirroring the original study doors on the first floor. These small yet significant details were carefully chosen to maintain the historical integrity of the 6,575-square-foot house. The mudroom, located off the side entry, exemplifies this approach with its warm, inviting design, penny tile, and wainscoting that celebrate the home's history while ensuring functionality. Lighting played a crucial role in the design, with a unique array of fixtures chosen for each room, particularly in high-traffic areas like foyers and staircases, to create a sense of cohesion and specialness. A notable example is the luxe crystal ball chandelier in the eldest daughter's bedroom, meticulously installed by Raelynn and her associate designer, Ed. The home's furnishings were also carefully curated by West End Interiors, combining existing pieces acquired from the previous owners with new selections. The Ewings further personalized their home with an extensive art collection, featuring works by local artists such as Monica Angle, Sarah Myers, Erin Long, and Catherine Parker. One particular piece by Sarah Myers holds sentimental value, having been passed down from Leah's aunt. The Ewings expressed deep satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the house felt like home immediately. The renovation successfully honored the architectural legacy of E. B. Green while imbuing the residence with modern comfort and a distinctive character, reflecting the owners' personalities and cherished art collection. This collaborative effort transformed a grand historical property into a vibrant, personalized family home, where history and whimsy coexist in perfect harmony. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #EBGreenArchitecture #HistoricalHomes #WestEndInteriors #LuxuryLiving #BuffaloHomes #ArtCollection #ArchitecturalPreservation