See for yourself: Patrick Square home built to capitalize on views

The Illuminus Group, a development firm, collaborated with CLB Architects to design a residential property in a private enclave in Park City, Utah. The objective was to create a timeless, elegant residence that offered extensive amenities while harmonizing with the natural surroundings, thereby setting a new standard for thoughtful design in the region. The 4.9-acre site, situated on a steep slope in the Wasatch Mountains at 8,500 feet above sea level, provides commanding views of the Park City Mountain resort and the valley. CLB Architects, known for their experience in high-end mountain residences, approached the landscape with careful consideration. Their primary goal was to make the 18,000-square-foot house, named Monitor's Rest, as compact as possible to prevent it from sprawling extensively into the forest. The design incorporates an L-shape plan, built into the hillside, making it appear smaller than its actual size upon approach. A central courtyard provides a serene entry point, offering views of the sky and allowing natural light into the home. The exterior features a material palette of Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof, chosen for their durability against harsh winters. The interior layout is designed to contrast with the enclosed courtyard. A limestone foyer serves as the central hub, directing visitors to the primary bedroom suite and office on one side, and the living and dining areas on the other. Straight ahead, a dramatic atrium with forest-facing windows leads down to guest bedrooms and a bowling alley. Common areas, including a large patio with an indoor-outdoor pool, are oriented southwest, offering a strong connection to the slope and environment. The property also features ski-in/ski-out access with a dedicated locker room, while spa and sports facilities are discreetly located in the back. For the interiors, CLB collaborated with David Ostrander, co-founder and creative director of Iluminus. A key challenge was to maintain a focused aesthetic despite the house's vastness. This was achieved through a consistent material selection, including hemlock ceilings, oak floors, and walls clad in oak or Croatian limestone. The primary bathroom exemplifies this pared-down approach with its Zen-like composition of wood, stone, and black metal, featuring narrow mirrors that allow views of the trees and a freestanding wood tub for a sense of calm. The adjacent bedroom similarly employs restrained design with oak paneling and custom furniture. A distinctive feature of the property is a 19-by-19-foot tower room at the back of the ground floor. This pop-up perch, inspired by national park watchtowers, offers 360-degree views and serves as a whimsical yet sophisticated retreat. It includes a wraparound balcony, a floating fireplace, a rosewood table, and a Mrirt rug, designed to be both fun and refined for all ages. Overall, Monitor's Rest successfully integrates extensive amenities and luxurious living with a deep respect for its mountainous setting, elevating the architectural standard in the Park City community. #ResidentialDesign #LuxuryHomes #MountainArchitecture #ParkCityUtah #CLBArchitects #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #WasatchMountains #ArchitecturalInnovation

The article suggests that Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a Texas native who already owns a home in Vaquero, should consider upgrading his real estate portfolio. This recommendation follows his second Super Bowl win and his role in the public relationship between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, implying a need for a more private sanctuary. The proposed upgrade is a Lake Flato-designed Texas Hill Country Modern compound located at 2102 Cedar Elm Terrace. Vaquero, a community developed by Discovery Land Company in 2001 on 525 acres, was originally part of the Hunt brothers’ Circle T Ranch. It is known for its privacy and security, attracting celebrities and athletes. This particular property is highlighted for its ability to offer complete privacy while also providing a sense of community when desired. Roxann Taylor, an agent with Engles & Volkers, describes the home as secluded, with its main entrance surrounded by stone. The house is strategically positioned so that rooms face either the fourth fairway of the Tom Fazio-designed golf course, the lake, or a private inner courtyard. The layout ensures that privacy is maintained, with drone surveillance being the only way to view the courtyard from above. The Lake Flato architectural firm, based in San Antonio, is recognized for its pioneering work in Texas Hill Country Modern design and recently received the American Institute of Architects 2024 Gold Medal award for their sustainable building practices. The article emphasizes that this specific property exemplifies their best work, combining architectural impressiveness with livability. The 9,635-square-foot home features five bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms. The current owners have made additions, including an expansion on the main floor and upstairs, adding three rooms and an elevator to the master suite, along with a spacious closet suitable for a large collection of items, such as sneakers. Lake Flato's design philosophy integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, creating "hybrid spaces" where the boundaries between the two are blurred. This is achieved through floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the main house and a separate two-bedroom, two-bathroom guest cottage. Even functional areas like the gym and game room offer scenic views. The property includes a garage with space for five vehicles, with one bay designed to accommodate car lifts, allowing for an expanded car collection. A bar at the end of one garage bay opens into the courtyard, facilitating entertainment. The location also offers convenience for families, as it is within walking distance of Westlake Academy, a K-12 school offering all three International Baccalaureate programs. The property is listed for $9.45 million. #VaqueroRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #TexasHillCountryModern #LakeFlatoArchitecture #PatrickMahomes #CelebrityHomes #PrivateCommunity #RealEstateUpgrade #ArchitecturalDesign

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

Lauren and Jason Muir embarked on a significant renovation of their 1900-built Parkside home after returning to Adelaide from London and Sydney. The couple purchased the property in its original condition in late 2020, with renovation plans beginning almost immediately. However, due to pandemic-related delays and council approvals, construction didn't commence until two years later. Lauren, a strategy executive at Westpac, expressed the importance of honoring the home's 1900 heritage while integrating a modern aesthetic, a design philosophy inspired by Victorian homes in London's southwest. A key design objective was to create a seamless transition between the original structure and the new extension. This was achieved by extending the original timber floors throughout the house and meticulously matching architectural details like architraves. The couple also focused on cohesive styling, using art to introduce color and enhance flow between the old and new sections of the home. The front of the house retained its original character, while the rear extension was designed to complement it with a contemporary feel. The renovation project involved collaboration with The Building Company and Mavtect Designs, successfully navigating council requirements that mandated the extension not be visible from the street. Specific features desired by the couple included a wine cellar, which Jason envisioned as a space where one could walk down and be enveloped by wine. Lauren's primary desire for the living space was an abundance of natural light. While the front of the house, with its older structure and tree coverage, remained darker, the extension was designed to maximize light, leading to the creation of a seven-meter raked ceiling and a large wall of glass. This architectural choice not only floods the living area with light but also provides a view of the century-old hedge in the backyard, which offers significant privacy and a natural green wall effect. Outdoor spaces were also a crucial component of the renovation. With the help of Husk Projects and Evoke Outdoors for landscaping, Lauren and Jason created dedicated outdoor entertaining areas and a sauna area. The sauna was specifically inspired by Sequoia Lodge, aiming to replicate its serene garden setting where one could relax after using the sauna, creating a retreat-like atmosphere. The Parkside home became a labor of love, offering a convenient urban lifestyle, with easy access to parklands and local amenities. Despite their affection for the renovated Parkside home, the Muir family is now moving to Stirling in pursuit of more space for their young children. Their new 1920s home also requires renovation, signaling Lauren's continued preference for restoring older properties over new builds. The sale of the Parkside property, located at 9 Douglas Street, is being managed by Georgie Todd and Alexandra Green of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of one project and the beginning of another for the family. #HeritageHome #ParksideRenovation #ModernExtension #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #HomeRenovation #AdelaideRealEstate #InteriorDesign #OutdoorLiving

This article highlights a meticulously rebuilt 1907 Foursquare Craftsman home located at 2023 S.W. Montgomery Dr. in Portland Heights, currently for sale by Macey Laurick of Windermere Realty Trust. The four-level residence seamlessly blends classic architectural elements with modern luxury amenities, aiming to appeal to both enthusiasts of Portland's historical architecture and individuals seeking a high-end living experience. The exterior of the house, situated in the Portland Heights grid neighborhood, retains its historic Foursquare Craftsman charm. Inside, the design emphasizes classic details such as quarter-sawn oak wainscoting, built-in cabinets, and beamed ceilings. The living room features a wood-burning fireplace adorned with hand-crafted Motawi tile, complemented by white oak built-in cabinets, some with stained glass fronts, and white oak floors. The 21-foot-long dining room is a notable space, characterized by a barrel ceiling and a built-in hutch with stained glass doors, enhancing its traditional elegance. The kitchen is outfitted with high-end appliances, including a Wolf 8-burner gas range with a double oven, two custom-covered Bosch dishwashers, a Wolf microwave, and a Sub-Zero French door refrigerator and freezer, also with a custom cover. The kitchen's aesthetic is further defined by a box-beam ceiling with beadboard inlay, antique granite countertops, a subway tile backsplash, and a central cooking island. Glass doors and large windows integrate the interior with the outdoor living spaces and an English garden, providing a connection to nature. A significant feature of the home is its intricate woodwork, particularly in the entry, where a square spiral staircase spans four levels. This staircase is accented by Arts and Crafts-influenced balustrades designed by Steve Bock, showcasing detailed craftsmanship. The primary suite offers a private retreat with its own fireplace and a balcony, along with a dedicated seating area that also includes a fireplace. The primary wardrobe room is designed for luxury and organization, featuring an island with storage and custom built-in cases, including two dressers. The primary bathroom is equipped with a vanity boasting two sinks, marble countertops, and a freestanding clawfoot bathtub. The house provides ample living space with six bedrooms, five full bathrooms, and two powder rooms. Additionally, it includes an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the garden level, which can serve as guest quarters and features a custom king-size Murphy bed. The lower level is designed for entertainment and relaxation, housing a state-of-the-art home theater, an Old English bar, a sauna, and a large game room. The top level benefits from the pitched roof, providing impressive 14-foot-high ceilings, including in the finished attic space. The overall design and amenities reflect a careful balance between preserving historical integrity and incorporating contemporary luxury, making it a distinctive property in Portland Heights. #FoursquareCraftsman #PortlandRealEstate #HistoricHome #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #HomeTheater #AccessoryDwellingUnit #InteriorDesign #PortlandHeights

This article highlights the design and construction of Peter Donohoe's multi-use homestead in Carlisle, Massachusetts, crafted by Patrick Ahearn Architect. Donohoe, a former Olympic bobsledder and current athlete conditioner, sought to create a property that could seamlessly integrate his personal life with his professional endeavors. The nearly 3-acre plot was envisioned to include a main house for entertaining and guests, a carriage house for his car collection, and a barn for his training facility and his wife's office. The initial design phase focused on complex site planning due to the hilly terrain, a process that took several months to finalize. The primary challenge was to create a grand country house that maintained a sense of intimacy and privacy, fitting within Carlisle's farmhouse aesthetic without appearing ostentatious. Architect Patrick Ahearn's design philosophy prioritized the client experience, ensuring that professional activities did not infringe on family life. This was achieved by creating a secondary driveway leading directly to the fitness barn, allowing clients to access the facility without interacting with the main residence or family members. The barn itself was designed with board-and-batten siding and strategic landscaping to blend harmoniously with the surrounding compound. The property features multiple outdoor spaces, including covered porches, second-floor decks, terraces, and gardens, providing various settings for relaxation and private moments. Three of the upstairs bedrooms offer direct access to private outdoor areas. The exterior aesthetics were carefully considered, with new stone walls constructed to mimic older ones and a painted clapboard carriage house designed to appear historically established. The main house, despite exceeding 7,000 square feet, is clad in cedar shingles and designed as a double-gambrel cottage, giving it a more modest appearance from the front. Interior design elements like varying ceiling heights, French doors, and a mix of textures such as beadboard, glass, and stone were used to delineate spaces and prevent the large home from feeling overwhelming. A single main corridor ensures easy flow without passing through multiple rooms. Specific areas within the house demonstrate this thoughtful design. The spacious kitchen is divided by half-walls and columns, creating a distinct breakfast room with views of the bluestone patio and pool. The living room features a stone-veneer fireplace, while a formal dining room was included to accommodate Donohoe's desire for weekend-long dinner parties. These architectural and design choices collectively create what Ahearn describes as "drama that’s intimate in scale." The interior décor, a collaboration with Duncan Hughes Interiors and Dewing Schmid Kearns, blends existing and new furniture and artwork, reflecting a modern farmhouse aesthetic that is both cozy and functional, impressive yet unpretentious, reminiscent of an old New England homestead. The property's overall design effectively balances scale, privacy, and functionality to meet the diverse needs of its owners. #HomeDesign #Architecture #LuxuryHomes #CarlisleProperty #PatrickAhearnArchitect #HomesteadDesign #SitePlanning #InteriorDesign #OutdoorSpaces

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 blog post highlights a significant mid-century modern residence located in Garrison, New York, available for $3.55 million. The property, spanning six acres, offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and was designed by Edgar Tafel, a notable disciple of Frank Lloyd Wright. Tafel, who gained experience working on iconic Wright projects like Fallingwater, infused the nearly 4,000-square-foot home with distinctive architectural elements reflecting his mentor's influence while also incorporating his unique vision. The exterior of the estate is characterized by its thoughtful landscaping, conceptualized by Burton Demarche. The design evokes a 'zen-like' atmosphere, harmonizing with the natural surroundings. A free-form swimming pool and a whirlpool hot tub are strategically placed among sculpted rock outcroppings, creating a seamless integration between the built environment and the rugged landscape. The property also features lush, woodsy gardens and multiple stone terraces, enhancing the outdoor living experience. A particularly appealing feature is a hot tub offering direct, unobstructed views of the Hudson River, alongside a guesthouse that adds to the estate's versatility and appeal. Inside the residence, mid-century modern aesthetics are prevalent. The architectural design emphasizes a strong connection to the outdoors, primarily through extensive floor-to-ceiling window walls. These large windows not only flood the interiors with natural light but also serve as living frames for the breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding landscapes. The material palette within the home predominantly features natural elements, such as stonework and wood-paneled walls. This choice of materials further blurs the lines between the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a cohesive and earthy ambiance. The home is equipped with multiple fireplaces, each framed by striking stone masonry, contributing to the warmth and architectural character of the interiors. A standout feature is a 'Kyoto-inspired' screened-in terrace, which includes a substantial outdoor fireplace and stone floors, providing an ideal space for relaxation and entertainment regardless of the weather. The residence boasts five bedrooms, each designed to maximize the spectacular panoramic views, ensuring that the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley is a constant presence within the private spaces. Despite its secluded feel, accessed via a private road, the property is conveniently located. It offers close proximity to a train station, facilitating easy access to broader areas, and is well-situated within the Hudson Highlands region. This location provides residents with numerous recreational opportunities, including access to hiking trails and golfing facilities. Furthermore, the estate is near Storm King Art Center, a renowned outdoor sculpture park, adding a cultural dimension to the area's attractions. This combination of architectural significance, natural beauty, and strategic location makes the Garrison estate a remarkable offering in the real estate market. #HudsonRiverViews #GarrisonEstate #FrankLloydWrightDisciple #EdgarTafel #MidCenturyModern #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #LandscapeDesign #PutnamCounty #DistinctiveHomes

This article showcases a Harwich Port home on Cape Cod that has undergone a significant renovation to fully embrace its oceanfront location. The interior design, spearheaded by Cambridge interior designer Tricia Luong, focuses on integrating the sea views into every aspect of the living space. The homeowners, a young family of three, purchased the 5,478-square-foot house, originally built in 1992, with the goal of making the ocean a central element of its design. The renovation involved opening up and brightening the space, strategically adding new windows to maximize the views. A fluid layout was implemented on the first floor to encourage easier movement and enhance visibility from the kitchen through the living areas to the outside. Luong meticulously planned the height of every light fixture and minimized window treatments facing the water to ensure an unobstructed connection to the ocean. The design aesthetic is a subtle coastal vibe, eschewing traditional nautical clichés. Luong incorporated muted blues, touches of turquoise, rattan, brass, and natural fibers like linen and seagrass throughout the home. Examples include a Cisco Home bed reupholstered in Villa Nova’s “Calvia River” fabric and Phillip Jeffries’s “Vinyl Magnetism” wallcovering in “Slate Current” in the bathroom, creating a sophisticated marine influence without being overpowering. The primary bathroom features white cabinets, Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, and Made Good mirrors adorned with small shells, radiating metallic and bright elements. Unique architectural features include circular windows in vaulted dormers above the dining room and primary suite, resembling portholes, which elevate the vantage point and draw in more light. Accordion glass doors in the cabana room provide direct access to the pool area and invite the ocean breeze indoors. An ombre bar-height dining table by Aronson Woodworks encourages casual interaction and fluid movement, complementing a round Made Goods table in the dining room used for game nights. Texture plays a crucial role in achieving the desired coastal feel, adding richness and warmth to the largely monochromatic palette. Concrete coffee tables, a weathered teak chaise, a rattan vanity, and white oak lining the walls and ceilings contribute to a minimalistic, serene vacation home atmosphere. The homeowners envisioned a bright and beautiful space with crisp whites and medium-toned blues, reflecting the ocean's colors and embodying a sense of relaxation and calmness, rather than strong contrasts. The project was executed by Cape & Islands Construction Co., with interior design by Tricia Luong Design and photo styling by Sean William Styling. #HomeDesign #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #HarwichPort #CapeCodHome #OceanView #RenovationProject #LuxuryHome #TriciaLuongDesign

The 2021 Luxury Home Tour features an elegant estate in Eden Prairie, designed and built by Michael Paul Design + Build. This residence is tailored to accommodate a family with three active children, integrating various recreational spaces while maximizing the scenic views of its elevated lot overlooking the Minnesota River. The property spans 6,810 square feet and includes five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, embodying a Midwest modern architectural style. Key design elements prioritize both functionality for an active family and aesthetic appeal. The home is equipped with a sport court, a rock climbing wall, an indoor faux-ice hockey rink, and an outdoor pool. Each child also has their individual space within the home. To withstand heavy foot traffic, low-maintenance wood flooring was installed throughout. The interior design, a collaboration between Michael Paul Design + Build and Talley Jane Interiors, focuses on creating seamless transitions between clean lines and rustic elements. Architectural details include a striking metal floating staircase featuring rustic treads and an all-metal railing. White oak flooring contributes to a casual yet elegant atmosphere, complemented by a mix of various wood finishes, bright enamel woodwork, and colored cabinets. The lower level is designed for entertainment, featuring a large bar that opens directly to the backyard pool area. One of the most notable features of the property is the private master suite. Michael Laumann, CEO and owner of Michael Paul Design + Build, highlights the exceptional location of the home, referring to it as one of the best lots in the southwest metro. The master deck offers expansive and impressive views of the river valley. The integration of robust recreational facilities with sophisticated design ensures the home meets the needs of its active occupants while providing a luxurious living environment. #LuxuryHomeTour #MichaelPaulDesignBuild #EdenPrairie #MidwestModern #FamilyHomeDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #SportCourt #OutdoorLiving

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 a recently renovated brownstone located at 541 1st Street in Park Slope, Brooklyn, listed for $7.49 million. The property features eight bedrooms, four bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces, emphasizing a blend of historic preservation and modern upgrades. Lyons Studio professionally designed and furnished the home, highlighting original architectural details like millwork and molding while incorporating contemporary elements. The parlor level, boasting 10-foot-high ceilings, welcomes visitors with a wallpapered entryway featuring custom harlequin marble tile and includes a restored pier mirror and ornate banisters. The formal living room on this level is bright, characterized by new herringbone flooring, a spacious layout with a sitting area under large bay windows, a unique chandelier, and restored stained glass transom windows. A functional fireplace divides the living area from the dining space, which accommodates a large table. The rear of this level houses a generously sized kitchen equipped with new skylights, Calacatta marble backsplash and counters, an integrated Sub Zero refrigerator, and an eat-in banquette suitable for dining or a work-from-home setup. Sliding doors connect the kitchen to a new iron deck that leads down to the garden. The upper floor is dedicated to the primary bedroom suite, a sun-drenched space with custom lighting, bay windows overlooking the tree-lined street, a decorative fireplace, and elegant moldings. The en-suite bathroom, separated from the bedroom by a walk-in closet, offers a double vanity, custom marble and tile-work, a freestanding tub, and a spa shower. This floor also includes a small study. The top-level accommodates three additional bedrooms, a Jack and Jill bathroom, another study, and a washer-dryer. The garden floor, accessible via its own entrance, is designed for family-friendly use. It includes a mudroom, a laundry room, and an additional bedroom with a full bath. An extension on this level provides ample space for a family room, complete with a wet bar, wine fridge, and dishwasher, making it suitable for entertainment. The 20-foot-wide home features a private outdoor garden, accessible from both the garden level and the kitchen deck. Its location offers convenient access to Prospect Park, with commercial amenities on Seventh Avenue a block west, and Grand Army Plaza and the Brooklyn Public Library’s main branch to the north. Deeded parking is also available for separate purchase. The listing is managed by Jessica Buchman of The Corcoran Group. #BrooklynBrownstone #ParkSlope #LuxuryRealEstate #HistoricHome #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #NYCRealEstate #FamilyFriendlyHome

Lisa and Gary Mieran, owners of Akyrah Kitchens, designed and largely built their two-storey, industrial-style home with modernist influences in Gympie, Queensland. The house, completed in December 2019 after a two-stage construction, is situated on land historically owned by Lisa's family. The design draws inspiration from Heide II, a modernist icon in Melbourne, celebrating concrete, timber, abundant light, and earthy tones. Lisa envisioned a home that would rise organically from the earth, becoming an integral part of the landscape and improving with age. The structure features off-form concrete, walls of glass, and tactile timbers, with the lower storey clad in cedar and the upper storey in recycled hardwood. Steel balustrading, handcrafted by Gary, complements the exterior, which also includes a swimming pool with Andorra limestone pavers. The interior features a breezeway offering spectacular views and airflow, with ceilings made of Henley Oak Grove engineered timber. The foyer includes a BassamFellows 'Geometric' day bed and artworks by Steve Waller. Given their expertise with Akyrah Kitchens, the kitchen in their home is a highlight, featuring blackbutt veneer doors, Basaltina benchtops, Circa taps from Brodware, and Inax 'Ceravio G' tiles. The living areas include a guest sitting area with a B&B Italia 'Le Bambole' sofa and a living room with a Cheminées Philippe fireplace and Jardan furnishings. The home was built in two stages to accommodate their grown children, Taren and Kirra. The first stage was a self-contained flat, which served as their temporary residence during the main build and now functions as a guest wing. The main house and another guest wing are connected by glassed walkways, with the main bedroom suite located upstairs. This design allows for three self-contained bedrooms with ensuites, providing private quarters for everyone while centralizing communal living spaces. Practicality and functionality are key design principles, evident in the integrated laundry within the bathroom behind a blackbutt joinery feature wall, and the kitchen's two large islands designed for simplicity and ample storage. The materials used throughout the home emphasize natural elements. Recycled timber is used for the upper storey and blackbutt joinery adds warmth, while the seamless flow of concrete from exterior to interior reinforces the architectural aesthetic. The home is designed for climate control, with generous light for winter warmth and cross-breezes for summer cooling. Lisa also undertook the landscaping, incorporating native plants like Xanthorrhoea, pandanus, native grasses, and succulents. The furniture, much of it Australian-made from brands like Jardan, is chosen for its timeless appeal and durability, reflecting the couple's preference for classic design over fleeting trends. The house stands as a testament to the couple's comprehensive involvement and shared vision, combining their professional skills with personal passions to create a harmonious and functional living space. #ModernistArchitecture #IndustrialStyle #ConcreteDesign #TimberAccents #SustainableMaterials #HomeDesign #OwnerBuilt #QueenslandHome #InteriorDesign

Parys Huis, designed by Nadine Engelbrecht Architect, is a residential project in Parys, South Africa, completed in 2024. The house is characterized by its balanced approach to simplicity, climate response, and integration of personal meaning, distinguishing it within a restrictive estate. With an area of 380 square meters, the design emphasizes calm detailing and a strong connection to its occupants and the surrounding environment. The architectural firm, Nadine Engelbrecht Architect, led the project, with interior design handled by Miru Living. J.C. Swanepoel Project Management and Projects oversaw the general construction, while Impact Engineers provided structural engineering and consulting services. The project incorporates materials from manufacturers like Hansgrohe and Isoboard, indicating a focus on quality and specific aesthetic choices. The project details reveal a comprehensive approach to residential architecture, encompassing both functional and aesthetic considerations. The use of concrete and wood is prevalent, contributing to the house's overall material palette. Photography by Marsel Roothman captures the essence of the design, showcasing its exterior and interior spaces, including elements like concrete, glass, wooden beams, and various rooms such as the dining room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Several images highlight the house's architectural features, including different views of the exterior, interior details with concrete and glass, and specific areas like the dining room with its wood table and chairs. The inclusion of floor plans, roof plans, sections, elevations, and a locality plan provides a detailed understanding of the house's layout and contextual integration. These drawings illustrate the spatial organization and the relationship of the building to its site. The design successfully navigates the constraints of its location, achieving a harmonious balance between the practical requirements of a home and its broader environmental and emotional contexts. The quiet resolution of Parys Huis underscores a thoughtful design process that considers both the physical and experiential aspects of dwelling. The project serves as an example of residential architecture that prioritizes contextual sensitivity and a personalized living experience. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #SouthAfrica #NadineEngelbrechtArchitect #ContemporaryDesign #ClimateResponsiveDesign #ConcreteConstruction #WoodInteriors

Shutterstock founder Jon Oringer and his wife Talia embarked on a search for a home in Miami Beach that would align with their vision of a welcoming oasis, distinct from the prevailing aesthetic characterized by aggressive geometrics and glossy surfaces. Their quest led them to a property overlooking Biscayne Bay, which, despite requiring significant renovation, offered an exceptional location and views. To transform this property into their dream home, they enlisted the expertise of AD100 interior designer Kelly Behun, who had previously worked on their Bridgehampton residence. Behun is recognized for her ability to create interiors that blend fanciful elements with refined sophistication, resulting in spaces that are both imaginative and serene. The home’s architectural transformation was initiated by Blaze Makoid of BMA Architects, who softened the exterior’s angularity with bronze and wood accents and introduced a sculptural staircase to enhance the interior’s dynamism. This established a visual language emphasizing fluidity and warmth, a quality the homeowners desired. Behun further collaborated with To Better Days Building, another AD PRO Directory firm, to realize the couple's vision. Within this architectural framework, Behun curated a vibrant collection of pieces from a global network of artisans, combining them with striking art and vintage items. Each room's design is often anchored by a central element, such as a unique lighting fixture or a captivating artwork, which harmonizes the color, pattern, and scale. Contemporary materials like white oak, plush fabrics, and muted metals are employed in sculptural forms, grounding the whimsical elements in an atmosphere of elegance and luxury. The entryway, for instance, features a custom stained glass light fixture by Greek artist Kostas Lambridis, whose design reflects the client's personal narrative. This piece hangs above a Mimi table by Garcé & Dimofski, complemented by Martino Gamper circus stools and a woven chair from Space Available Studio, all echoing the fixture's colors. Similarly, a stained glass fixture by Maarten de Ceulaer commands attention in the dining room, balancing a substantial table by Yabu Pushelberg. In the double-height library, four ceiling pendants by Bennet Schlesinger, inspired by cumulus clouds, playfully disrupt the room's formal upholstered seating arrangements. The lounge is enlivened by a cut-paper collage of dancing women by Heidi Lanino, set against curvaceous furniture by designers like Achille Salvagni and Chris Wolston. For the children’s playroom, a Nuage fixture by Wout Wessemius creates an ethereal ambiance. Beyond individual pieces, foliage plays a crucial role in animating the spaces. Large Alocasia Calidora leaves at the second-floor atrium window add drama to the primary bedroom. Landscape architect Raymond Jungles collaborated on the home's vegetation, including an immense American oil palm at the entryway that helps scale down the property, contributing to a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere despite its grandeur. The overall design achieves a ravishing and rejuvenating effect, perceived as both sublime and sensual by the homeowners. Jon Oringer praised Behun’s capacity to translate their identity into the living space, affirming that the designer successfully delivered a home that is uniquely theirs. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #MiamiArchitecture #ContemporaryDesign #CustomFurniture #ArtCollection #LandscapeDesign #ArchitecturalDigest

Binh and Thomas Allen, a couple with no prior property development experience, embarked on an ambitious three-year renovation of an untouched Victorian terrace in West Dulwich, South London. They discovered a property built in the early 1900s with many original features still intact, a rarity in today's market, and were captivated by its inherent charm. Their vision for the home was to blend its historical Victorian elements with modern mid-century furniture and contemporary furnishings, a reflection of their diverse backgrounds—Binh from Vietnam and Thomas from Switzerland. The renovation was not without significant challenges. The couple chose to live in the house throughout the process, even enduring a period where their roof was removed for a loft conversion. This meant sharing their living space with builders six days a week and contending with constant dust and exposure to the elements, including birds flying into their bedroom through the open roof. Despite these difficulties, their belief in their dream home never wavered. They meticulously managed the project themselves, from sourcing all materials and furnishings to keeping a strict handle on the budget, a task at which Thomas excelled with his detailed spreadsheets. A key motivation for purchasing a "doer-upper" was to maximize their investment. They began with essential upgrades, such as installing a new boiler and removing outdated carpeting. The renovation was phased over three years due to budget constraints. In the second year, they tackled bathroom renovations, and by the third year, they undertook the two most significant projects: the loft conversion and the kitchen remodeling. They gathered ideas by attending local open house sales, which also helped them understand the precedents for loft conversions and extensions in their area, aiding in the planning permission process. For the loft conversion, they hired a builder with the understanding that they would procure all materials themselves. This hands-on approach resulted in a 20 percent saving on the overall cost, and they learned to negotiate prices effectively. Although the work fell under permitted development, they enlisted an architect specializing in period properties to creatively maximize the space and ensure a premium finish. The architect designed a master suite without compromising ceiling height by strengthening existing joists and adding new ones, avoiding the need for steel beams that would have reduced headroom. They also used the opportunity of scaffolding to repaint windows, repoint, install solar panels, and repair exterior damage. The kitchen renovation involved removing a chimney breast to create space for units, taking out the back wall, and installing Crittall doors. They opted for long and wide timber floorboards to enhance the sense of space and a Shaker-style kitchen with brass details for an urban country aesthetic. Cost savings were achieved by selecting a marble-inspired matte worktop made from natural, recyclable materials, with an offcut used to create a feature shelf. Their patio design was inspired by travertine tiles seen on holiday in Israel, chosen for their creamy, warm appearance and minimalist, Mediterranean feel. They also installed a home office/cinema room in the garden, a multifunctional retreat surrounded by greenery. Inside, they maintained a consistent blue and white color palette, restored original Victorian cornices and ceiling roses, and chose a mix of modern and antique furnishings to create a unique character without being overly traditional. The entrance hall's original Victorian tiles were preserved, with broken ones replaced by matching imitation tiles, and the front door's frosted glass was replaced with stained glass inspired by the floor tiles. The bathroom features reclaimed period tiles from Spain, contrasted with white wall tiles and paint, accommodating a large shower and freestanding bath. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #LoftConversion #KitchenRemodel #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #PeriodProperty #HomeImprovement #LondonRealEstate