See How This Home Went from Neglected Schoolhouse to Chic Cottage

Róisín Lafferty, founder and creative director of Kingston Lafferty Design (KLD), spearheaded a nearly five-year restoration, renovation, and redecoration project to transform a landmarked Georgian-style schoolhouse in coastal Galway, Ireland, into a five-bedroom, four-bath residence. The initial structure, while charming and historic, presented several challenges, including outdated electrical systems, a lack of central air, and inadequate bathing facilities for a family of seven. Furthermore, a series of mismatched rear extensions and small service buildings obstructed garden views and natural light penetration into the interior. KLD collaborated with Helena McElmeel Architects, a local firm that assisted in navigating the municipality’s strict conservation board regulations and managed the structural modifications. Significant changes were concentrated at the rear of the property, where a new, window-wrapped, skylight-capped modern addition now houses an orangerie-style dining room, replacing a damp lean-to. This space is seamlessly connected to the updated kitchen. An existing conservatory was also enhanced with new glazing to create a breakfast room, accessed through portals in the kitchen's thick stone walls, which are clad with green marble tile to emphasize the transition between the old and new structures. The interior design philosophy prioritized repurposing and integrating existing elements with new, vintage, and custom pieces. For instance, an old kitchen table was reconfigured with a stone slab to serve as the cooking island, and pendant fixtures from the house's corridors were repurposed for lighting. Antique cabinets left by previous owners were skillfully integrated into new millwork, such as the main bathroom's armoire, which was transformed into a vanity with a marble countertop and antiqued brass legs. Mismatched Michael Thonet chairs, inherited from family, were grouped around a custom dark-stained oak dining table, contributing to a curated aesthetic. A particularly distinctive feature is the conversation pit in the rear lounge, recessed into the concrete floor to maintain garden sightlines. This element, along with a moss-green velvet Mah Jong sofa, evokes a 1970s sensibility. The original pass-through hatch between the kitchen and the reading room was reframed with bronze-tinted mirrored panels, adding a unique, moody atmosphere to the latter space. Although a beautifully hued stair runner was too worn to salvage, its color palette of sky blue, burgundy, terra-cotta, and mustard was incorporated throughout the home. Upstairs, the sleeping quarters blend traditional and modern design with whimsical touches. The main suite, occupying most of the second story, features a bedroom, a walk-in dressing room, and a bathroom with a fireplace and soaking tub. Period-appropriate paneling and a curvilinear velvet headboard were introduced to make the large main bedroom feel more intimate. The children's zone on the third floor was designed to maximize space; for example, a hanging rattan chair on the adjacent stair landing serves as a lounge area for the youngest daughter. The two boys' shared room benefits from high ceilings, allowing for tall loft beds that create ample floor space for hangout and work areas. This comprehensive renovation and redecoration effort successfully transformed a historic schoolhouse into a functional, aesthetically rich, and personalized family home. #KingstonLaffertyDesign #HistoricRenovation #SchoolhouseConversion #GalwayIreland #ResidentialDesign #InteriorTransformation #SustainableDesign #RepurposedFurniture #GeorgianArchitecture

Architect and designer Kartik Desai, along with his husband Zane Philstrom, transformed an abandoned mobile home property in Southold, North Fork of Long Island, New York, into a modern, cost-effective family residence with breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound. The couple purchased the dilapidated property in 2012, initially using it as a campsite while they designed their dream home, emphasizing the stunning natural surroundings as the primary inspiration. The design philosophy centered on maximizing the Long Island Sound view, ensuring every room and the swimming pool faced the water. To achieve this vision while adhering to budget constraints, Desai implemented several clever cost-cutting solutions. For instance, in the living room, instead of an expensive custom sectional, they opted for an affordable IKEA sectional and customized it with removable, washable linen covers from Bemz, providing both a polished look and practical maintenance for a beach house environment. The living room also features a massive 12-foot hearth fireplace that doubles as a bench, and a clever panel concealing the television. The dining room, kitchen, and living area were designed as a cohesive communal space. A continuous bank of sliding doors along the ground floor was a key design element to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. To avoid the high cost of a custom 50-foot sliding door system, they utilized four standard-width bay units. These were then integrated seamlessly with natural oak finishes, extending to cabinetry and using cabinet face material to fill the gaps, making it appear as a single, custom system. Desai highlights this as an example of making standard-sized elements look bespoke. In the kitchen, budget-friendly material swaps were crucial. The original plan for concrete floors, countertops, and fireplace surround was deemed too expensive. Instead, large format tiles from Porcelanosa were used for the floor, and quartz for the countertops and fireplace surround. These alternatives provided a similar aesthetic to concrete but offered benefits such as durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance. The open kitchen design allows Philstrom, an avid cook, to engage with guests in the dining and living areas or by the pool. The bedrooms and bathrooms also maintain continuity with the home's overall aesthetic and practical design. Bedrooms offer serene views of the ocean, with furniture from brands like CB2, Blu Dot, Parachute, and IKEA. The bathroom similarly boasts sweeping views of the Long Island Sound, utilizing the same practical and durable materials as the main living areas, with fixtures from Kohler, mirrors from Rejuvenation, and tiles from Porcelanosa. This strategic approach to design and material selection enabled the couple to create a sophisticated, zen-like Hamptons home without exceeding their budget, transforming an uninhabitable structure into a modern sanctuary. #HomeDesign #CostSavingTips #HamptonsHome #ModernArchitecture #DIYDesign #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #OceanViewHome #SustainableLiving

This article details the transformation of a dilapidated 100-year-old barn in the Hudson River Valley into a sophisticated guesthouse and entertaining space. The structure, which originally had soft walls, a partly rotted foundation, a mud floor, and a bat infestation, was deemed barely salvageable. However, the homeowner enlisted the expertise of Connecticut-based architecture and design firm Hendricks Churchill, led by wife and husband team Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill, known for their ability to blend historical preservation with modern elements. Rafe Churchill, the lead architectural designer, spearheaded a comprehensive overhaul. This involved stabilizing the foundation, stripping the barn down to its timber frame, and rebuilding it with modern amenities such as insulation, plaster walls, radiant floors, and new windows. Despite these extensive renovations, Churchill meticulously preserved the barn’s original charm, particularly its aged timber posts, beams, and weathered ceiling. To accommodate the new roof structure, a new one was built over the existing ceiling, a technique previously employed in their own 1871 home. Further enhancing its functionality, a full bathroom, kitchenette, and a basement level featuring a garage and sauna were added. Heide Hendricks, the lead interior designer, collaborated with the homeowner, who possessed a keen eye for furniture, art, and textiles. The design process began with a vintage dark brown leather Togo sectional, a piece the homeowner acquired even before the demolition phase, which established the retro-relaxed vibe of the double-height living area. The interior palette is characterized by earthy tones, including caramel browns, charcoal, and subtle pink accents, chosen to highlight the various tactile elements within the space. These elements range from reclaimed oak floors and plaster walls to wicker dining chairs and a Japanese boro textile. To achieve an aged patina effect, the plaster walls were tinted rather than left pure white, avoiding a stark appearance. The kitchenette cabinetry was painted in Farrow & Ball’s Dead Salmon, a muddy pink, introducing an unexpected touch of color to the dining area. The dining space is furnished with a vintage dining table and chairs, complemented by artwork, specifically a framed Calvin Klein scarf depicting Andy Warhol’s _Electric Chair_, positioned above the sink. A clear glass railing frames a raised bedroom loft, accessed by an oak zigzag staircase, which overlooks the living room. In the loft, a vintage table and stools create a secluded workspace, offering guests a private retreat. The designers deliberately adopted a minimalist approach, minimizing extraneous elements such as elaborate window treatments, built-ins, and excessive accessories. Motorized shades were installed in place of traditional drapery, a compact vertical bookcase replaced a conventional one, and rugs were used sparingly to emphasize the plain oak floors. This intentional restraint, as Hendricks notes, was key to the project’s success, ensuring the barn retained its essential character while gaining modern functionality and a chic aesthetic. #BarnRenovation #GuesthouseDesign #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #ModernRustic #HendricksChurchill #HudsonRiverValley #SustainableRenovation #VintageDecor

The article details the transformation of a two-car garage on Beau Ciolino and Matt Armato’s East Tennessee property into a 950-square-foot rental cottage named Chanterelle Cottage. The DIY design duo, known as Probably This, embarked on this extensive renovation to fulfill their passion for hosting and create a mini-resort on their 10-acre property, which also includes a main house and a barn. Their inspiration stemmed from a positive experience at a California bed and breakfast, leading them to envision a welcoming and home-like atmosphere for guests. Initially conceived as a "light renovation," the project quickly expanded in scope, requiring significant structural and utility upgrades. This included installing septic, plumbing, and electrical systems, as well as adding two small foundation extensions and modifying the roofline to accommodate a two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout capable of sleeping six people. The 18-month renovation marked several firsts for the pair, including their first project outside New Orleans and their first time with a clear division of labor, with Ciolino leading the design and Armato handling the construction. They also set an initial budget of $80,000, which they ultimately nearly doubled. A notable challenge arose when they realized they had exhausted their budget before purchasing kitchen cabinets. Resourcefully, Armato salvaged solid wood 1950s cabinets from the previous homeowner's basement and repurposed them for the cottage kitchen. Ciolino’s design vision for the kitchen included sloped rooflines, a large arched wooden doorway, and other whimsical elements. He personalized the space by customizing Delft-style backsplash tiles with sketches of animals observed on the property, which he commissioned from an Etsy maker. The placement of each tile was meticulously planned to create a narrative, ensuring that details like ducks and chanterelle mushrooms were strategically positioned. The yellow kitchen cabinets were chosen as a direct nod to the chanterelle mushrooms growing nearby, providing a visual connection to the cottage’s name. Whimsy served as the overarching design principle, with Ciolino aiming to create a space that encourages daydreaming and captures the fairytale-like essence of the property, especially with its fireflies and proximity to the national forest. The mutual favorite room is the upstairs "canopy" bedroom, featuring Divine Savages’ "Where The Wildflowers Grow" wallpaper on both the walls and ceiling, designed to evoke the feeling of being in a treehouse. To enhance the guest experience, Ciolino and Armato curate thoughtful amenities, such as fresh eggs from their ducks and a vintage picnic basket stocked with glassware, cutlery, and a blanket. A map of the property is also provided to guide guests to features like the stargazing meadow and forest hiking trails, ensuring a complete and enchanting stay. This detailed approach to renovation and guest hospitality successfully brings their fairytale vision to fruition. #CottageRenovation #DIYDesign #HomeTransformation #WhimsicalDecor #RentalProperty #InteriorDesign #BudgetRenovation #CustomTilework #FairytaleHome

In the Italian region of Puglia, architect Andrew Trotter undertook the transformation of a former all-girls school, closed since the 1960s, into a residential home. The property, known as Casolare Scarani, presented a unique opportunity, being smaller than the grand masserie and more characterful than typical farm outbuildings found in the area. Trotter, who has experience with various housing projects near Carovigno, identified the building's potential due to its historic charm and manageable size. The renovation began just before the 2020 pandemic when an Australian family, friends of Trotter, decided to purchase the property. Ian Coleman viewed the school in person, while his wife Maree made the decision based on photographs. The initial phase of the renovation involved a collaborative effort to strip layers of peeling paint from the arcade, revealing the original stone beneath. This arcade now forms part of a three-bedroom and one-bathroom suite on the second floor. The original garage was repurposed into a kitchen, and a stable became the dining room. For the two ground-floor bathrooms, Trotter added a white cubed extension that seamlessly integrates with the historical structure. Trotter's signature design approach, characterized by Mediterranean Minimalism, is evident throughout the renovated home. White lime plaster was extensively used on walls and ceilings, creating a soft, powdery finish that enhances the rounded arches and vaults, making them appear as if carved from limestone. This aesthetic achieves a balance between minimalist simplicity and warm comfort. The architect preserved and relaid old stones, while other areas feature Chianca porcelain tiles. Historical elements such as a star vault and a large living room fireplace were retained and integrated with new additions like shelves and wall niches. The interior decor incorporates local ceramics, crafts, antique wooden furniture, and natural textiles, all while retaining a rich patina that nods to the building's past without appearing outdated. The transformation highlights Trotter's skill in adapting historical structures for modern living while respecting their heritage. Specific changes include converting the original garage into a kitchen, the stable into a dining room, and developing a three-bedroom, one-bathroom area on the second floor, which was previously a classroom. The new cubed extension for the ground-floor bathrooms demonstrates a contemporary intervention that complements the historic core. The project successfully reimagines an obsolete educational facility into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home, blending traditional Puglian architecture with a modern, minimalist sensibility. #Puglia #Italy #AndrewTrotter #SchoolConversion #HistoricRenovation #MediterraneanMinimalism #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalTransformation #InteriorDesign

This article details the transformation of a newly constructed Brooklyn townhouse into a warm, personalized, and comfortable family home with a mid-century modern aesthetic. The homeowners, who are lovers of the outdoors, sought to create an urban oasis that felt like an escape from the city, particularly benefiting from the property's quiet, tree-lined street and enclosed backyard. Interior designer Lucy Harris led the project, focusing on seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, incorporating super durable pieces suitable for a young child, and maintaining a light and bright color scheme. The entryway, designed to function as both an entrance and a mudroom, immediately sets an eclectic and welcoming tone with custom millwork for storage and a colorful tiled floor from Heath Ceramics, featuring bright blues and golds. Accessories such as a natural-feeling leather mail/key holder from Lostine and a simple half-moon mirror from Bower contribute to the unique character. In the kitchen, which was recently installed in the new-build, minor but impactful changes were made to integrate it into the home's overall aesthetic. Rattan counter stools from Stahl and Band introduced natural materials, while green pendants from In Common With tied in with the dining area's color scheme. The dining nook is highlighted as one of the most dramatic alterations, featuring custom banquette seating upholstered in a deep green wool boucle fabric from Tibor, complementing the leafy street view. A brass fixture from Apparatus adds texture, and a custom-sized solid wood table from Yucca Stuff, along with vintage-inspired Tre 3 chairs by Angelo Mangiarotti, complete the inviting space. The living room was conceived as a casual, peaceful, and fresh area, utilizing a serene palette with vibrant earthy accents. It showcases a colorful area rug by Christopher Farr, an original Bauhaus design, and a soft sofa from Poiat, contrasting with an organic-shaped coffee table in the style of Paul Frankl. An adjacent reading area in the living room features a leather Ojai chair from Lawson Fenning, reflecting the mid-century modern influence throughout the house. A Miniforms Soda glass side table adds material contrast, and custom millwork displays the homeowner’s vintage objects, infusing personality into the new construction. The connection between indoor and outdoor living is emphasized through large houseplants and green color palettes inside, and an inviting balcony dining space leading to a landscaped backyard, designed by Michael Cafiero. The outdoor area includes Fermob Luxembourg chairs and a customized Croft House dining table, suitable for the terrace. The family room introduces a different palette with deep blues and rich rusty oranges, creating an inviting atmosphere with mixed patterns. A custom rug collaboration between Lucy Harris and Carini, a wool and leather ottoman, and a comfortable Albarese sofa by DePadova define the space. A home gym adjacent to an outdoor terrace benefits from a leafy view. The primary bedroom combines pastel colors with vibrant accents for a serene yet interesting backdrop, featuring a walnut nightstand by Hedge House, a scalloped sconce by Nickey Kehoe, and a colorful quilt by Thompson Street Studio. Subtle patterned wallpaper by Rebecca Atwood and Caroline Z Hurley drapes add texture and quirkiness. For the nursery, a playful desert theme was chosen, reflecting the owners' love for hiking. Geometric patterns, a neutral cactus wallpaper, and terracotta accents, including a Kartell Componibili, create a vibrant yet sophisticated space. The guest bedroom on the fourth floor extends the natural beige, orange, and brown palette, with a second walnut nightstand from Hedge House and a rug from Nordic Knots, complemented by green and blue accents in the Room & Board bed and Rebecca Atwood drapery. This comprehensive redesign transforms the builder's spec townhouse into a soulful city oasis with distinctive character and style. #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #BrooklynTownhouse #HomeRenovation #FamilyHome #OutdoorLiving #CustomDesign #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign

This article details the comprehensive renovation and interior design of a 1970s ranch home in Brentwood, TN, undertaken by its second owner, Tyler Pennington. Having admired the house since childhood, Tyler purchased it from the original owners and embarked on a transformation project to update it for his family of five while preserving its original architectural charm, which he describes as reminiscent of the New England coast. The renovation involved reconfiguring the internal space, adding a second story, and selecting finishes and furnishings to suit a modern lifestyle with young children, without sacrificing its classic aesthetic. Tyler, who owns White Pines Building Group, managed much of the construction work himself. He collaborated with architect Champ Webb of C.W. Design and Andrew King of AK Designs for the second-story addition and exterior elements. For the interior design, he enlisted Sara Ray Interior Design, aiming for a contemporary look that avoided excessive modernity or trendiness. Sara Ray focused on creating a design that blended classic, traditional elements with clean lines and modern touches, prioritizing durable fabrics for furnishings and incorporating vintage rugs to withstand daily wear and tear from three young children. The design also balanced masculine and feminine touches, with a deliberate emphasis on timeless pieces that would retain their appeal over decades. Throughout the renovation, Tyler made efforts to integrate natural and historically relevant materials. While the interior was largely gutted, original materials were reused, and aspects of the original design were recreated. For instance, new poplar molding was installed in the entryway and dining room, hardwood floors were milled locally in Leiper’s Fork, and windows were designed to replicate the original grid pattern. A significant part of the project involved relocating the original fireplace, with its salvaged limestone being repurposed to create a new, two-story focal point in the central living area. The main floor features an open layout with a living area, dining area, and kitchen. The living space, characterized by a wall of doors and a double-story ceiling, displays a masculine-meets-modern aesthetic with warm accent colors against a white backdrop. The renovated kitchen prioritizes brightness, featuring a large center island, a tile backsplash, a polished limestone hood, and light fixtures with brass shades. The dining room, located off the main entry, showcases a reclaimed wood table with an industrial base, brass-foot chairs, and upholstered end chairs, all illuminated by a modern light fixture. Other rooms, such as the powder room, continue the theme of simple design with character. The children's bedrooms were designed with personalized touches. The oldest daughter's room is colorful, while the youngest daughter's features pinks and frills. The middle child's room incorporates antelope wallpaper and a vintage brass deer head, reflecting his interest in hunting. Bathrooms feature muted color schemes, penny tile flooring, and unique fixtures. The second floor accommodates a guest bedroom, children's bedrooms, a playroom, and a study area, while the third floor includes a sleeping nook with bunk-style beds and another playroom with a slide connecting to the second floor. The exterior of the house largely maintains its original appearance, with subtle updates such as a cedar roof, copper gas lanterns, updated stonework, and custom corbels. The transformation successfully merges the home's historic essence with modern family living, ensuring its continued admiration. #HomeRenovation #RanchHome #InteriorDesign #ClassicModern #FamilyHome #ArchitecturalPreservation #SustainableDesign #SaraRayInteriors #NashvilleHomes

The article details the thoughtful remodel of Jessica and Scott Nelson's Tudor Revival home in Seattle, originally built in 1929. The house, untouched for around 50 years before the Nelsons purchased it, possessed a fairytale-like charm but suffered from a chaotic layout. Jessica, who runs Jessica Nelson Design with her husband, sought a property that allowed her to implement her own design vision. Key structural changes included removing a wall downstairs to create a combined kitchen and living area, and reorganizing the upstairs to improve functionality. Previously, the upstairs bedrooms were connected via Jack and Jill doors, requiring passage through one to access another. A significant addition was a staircase leading to the attic, transforming this previously unused space into a 500-square-foot family room with bunk beds and a dedicated workspace for Jessica. The design approach moved beyond the initial plain white walls. Jessica embraced a bolder, more dramatic aesthetic, exemplified by painting the hallway a dark green after losing a window during renovations. This decision created a "jewel-box moment," highlighting artwork and setting a moody tone that influenced subsequent color and layering choices throughout the home. Furnishing the home involved a fresh start, with Jessica sourcing many pieces from online platforms like 1stDibs, Chairish, and Etsy. Notable acquisitions included dining room chairs from Poland and a pale green velvet accent chair found on Facebook Marketplace. The children, Gemma and Graham, were actively involved in selecting artwork from estate sales and vintage stores in Seattle. Outdoor living spaces were also enhanced with the addition of a timber deck, equipped with heaters and a firepit to extend its usability throughout the year. The garden features vibrant borders and newly installed raised vegetable beds, where the children participate in planting and harvesting. The remodel successfully transformed a historically charming but functionally challenging house into a personalized and nurturing family home. #TudorRevival #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #SeattleArchitecture #HomeRenovation #DesignProcess

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

An outdated mid-century home in El Segundo, California, underwent a significant transformation, evolving into a two-story residence while meticulously preserving its original character. Interior designer Alexis Vitale of Vitale Design Group recognized the home's potential despite its dated finishes and disjointed layout. The clients desired a living space that could accommodate their growing family, emphasizing warmth, honesty in materials, and a natural flow, all while respecting the home's mid-century roots. The design approach centered on honoring classic mid-century architecture, incorporating clean lines, natural materials, and ample natural light, while integrating a refined, contemporary aesthetic. The project, a collaboration between Vitale and architect Brett Horton, aimed to enhance flow, light, and livability, treating the renovation as an uncovering of a 'precious stone' to reveal its true beauty. A pivotal element in the redesign was tile, particularly the fluted concrete tile by Kinney Block, which was used on the exterior and served as an 'architectural heartbeat' for the home. Its sculptural quality influenced the overall form and texture throughout the property. The interior palette was inspired by moody green tiles in the kitchen, leading to a sophisticated scheme of earthy greens balanced with walnut and wenge woods. Structural modifications included expanding the layout and adding a second story to improve the home's functionality. The kitchen is identified as the true heart of the home, showcasing a blend of mid-century charm and modern sophistication. It features lush green tiles, a fluted island, a leathered quartzite slab, and sculptural concrete pendants, all contributing to a warm and deep ambiance. The kitchen seamlessly transitions into the living room, which then leads to a dining room featuring a custom bookcase and the home's original fireplace. Skylights were incorporated to maximize natural light in these communal areas. The upper level of the home includes a tranquil primary suite, designed with a sumptuous blue velvet bed, dark woods, textured grass cloth, pitched ceilings, and leathered sconces. The primary bathroom offers a spa-like experience, enhanced by abundant natural light from skylights. Additional rooms upstairs include a playful, color-drenched kids' bedroom with vintage touches and guest bathrooms featuring interesting tile and terrazzo flooring. A notable addition on the second floor is an adults' hangout area, a bar featuring mid-century-inspired tile and wood, complemented by a deep orange sofa for lounging. The renovation carefully maintained the home's architectural DNA, retaining its clean lines, organic materials, and connection to nature, while modernizing its proportions and details. Every material choice, from the fluted concrete chimney to walnut millwork and plaster finishes, was selected to refresh the mid-century palette. New elements such as custom lighting, handcrafted tile, and thoughtful layering were integrated to respect the original design language and adapt it for contemporary living. The project, nicknamed 'The Jewel,' successfully transformed a dated residence into a home that reflects the homeowners' identity, blending mid-century character with modern life for effortless, timeless, and beautiful living. #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ElSegundo #VitaleDesignGroup #HomeTransformation #ArchitecturalRedesign #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor

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

Emily Henson, a stylist and author, embarked on an extensive two-year renovation of a dilapidated bungalow in Margate, Kent, transforming it into her dream seaside home. Despite initially searching for Victorian townhouses, Henson was drawn to the bungalow due to its garden and ample natural light, even though it presented numerous challenges including dingy rooms, rotten windows, and asbestos-ridden floors. Her renovation approach was largely intuitive, making decisions such as lighting plans and wall colors on the spot, exemplified by her decision to keep the fresh plaster unpainted in some areas. The renovation process began in January 2022. Henson lived on-site throughout the extensive remodeling, which involved her builder dismantling walls and ceilings, and rebuilding the kitchen and bathroom. While she initially hoped to complete much of the work before moving in, the prolonged timeline necessitated living through the construction. Major challenges included replacing nearly everything in the house, from plumbing and electrics to insulation, as well as installing new flooring, a new bathroom, and a kitchen. Henson adopted a hands-on approach, undertaking many DIY projects herself, such as pouring the floors and stripping wallpaper, after initial difficulties with a builder. A significant personal project was refinishing the exterior and painting all the windows, which she documented on Instagram, noting how it transformed her perception of her home. Key design decisions included opening up the living room and kitchen by removing walls and an old fireplace, creating a double-height ceiling, and adding a mezzanine for a library/reading nook. This open-plan layout suited her lifestyle as a single resident and provided an ideal space for entertaining. She also reconfigured the bedroom area, adding an en-suite bathroom by knocking through a doorway from her bedroom and converting a separate WC and bathroom into one large space. Regarding expenses, the most significant splurge was the structural work involved in knocking through walls and ceilings. Conversely, her best bargains included a blue bath and a green sink. The sink was purchased for £100 from a salvage yard, and the bath was acquired for free from Facebook Marketplace after the seller grew impatient waiting for collection. Henson expressed her fondness for a ceramic ceiling light imported from Italy and a red Chinese cabinet that has traveled with her for over two decades. Her custom-made kitchen island, constructed from four antique chests of drawers fitted onto a wheeled birch ply base, serves as a central storage solution, eliminating the need for wall cabinets. For paint choices, Henson left the freshly plastered walls and vaulted ceiling in the main living area and kitchen unpainted, sealing them with Polyvine Decorators Varnish for protection. She applied a similar raw finish in two bedrooms, accentuating them with white borders. The rest of the house was painted with inexpensive basic white paint. Specific colors used include Dulux Tuscan Glade for the kitchen windowsill and pantry door, and June Bug by Valspar for the exterior windows. Henson noted that if she were to undertake the renovation again, she would invest more thought into the lighting plan, particularly regarding the placement of pendants and wall lights in the main bathroom and other rooms. #HomeRenovation #BungalowTransformation #InteriorDesign #DIYProjects #KitchenIsland #HomeMakeover #SeasideHome #EmilyHenson #Kent

Chriselle Lim, creator of The Chriselle Factor blog, collaborated with designer Lucinda Pace of Laurel & Wolf to redesign her Los Angeles home, which is also her husband Allen's childhood residence. The objective was to infuse Chriselle's personal style into the home, transforming it into a luxurious and modern living space for herself, Allen, and their daughter, Chloé. The dining room was a primary focus of the renovation due to its outdated built-in cabinets and tendency to accumulate clutter. Chriselle envisioned a polished, contemporary, and mature aesthetic for this area. Lucinda Pace approached the dining room transformation by first selecting a chandelier and dining table, which then guided subsequent design choices. The design incorporated high-end fabrics and metallic accents, blending both commercially available and custom-designed furniture pieces. The existing built-in cabinets were revitalized by applying black lacquer paint, adding an antique mirror, and installing new brass hardware, thereby converting them into a sophisticated bar area. The designer described the outcome as "modern and fresh," creating an ideal setting for entertaining guests. Key elements in achieving the glamorous look included Jonathan Adler's Meurice Chandelier and Bond Dining Table. A more budget-friendly alternative for the chandelier, West Elm's Mobile Chandelier, was also suggested. The dining room's floor was adorned with a wool rug from Loloi Rug Company, and Lucinda custom-designed the dining chairs to accommodate Chriselle's young family and frequent visits from both sets of in-laws. The bar area was accessorized with items primarily from Z Gallerie, such as a gold Decanter Set. Chriselle's design philosophy balanced luxurious accent pieces, like Kelly Wearstler's Liason Ice Bucket, with more affordable decorative items from Z Gallerie, including the Filigree Jar and Agate Tealight. The dining table followed a similar decorating scheme, featuring gold-toned items such as Z Gallerie's Miami Vase. Chriselle expressed satisfaction with the renovation, noting that the transformed house reflects her personal style, which she characterizes as elegant, glamorous, yet cozy and rustic. The project successfully converted a family home with a history into a contemporary and sophisticated oasis tailored to the blogger's refined taste and lifestyle. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #DiningRoomMakeover #LuxuryDecor #GlamorousStyle #BeforeAndAfter #ChriselleLim #LaurelAndWolf #DesignerCollaboration

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

This article details the renovation of a 1930s brick farmhouse located on two acres of waterfront farmland in Silverdale, Washington, overlooking the Dyes Inlet. A couple, long-time residents of the Kitsap Peninsula, discovered this rare brick home and decided to preserve and transform it rather than demolish it. The project was undertaken by Seattle-based SHED Architecture & Design. Initially, the 2,182-square-foot farmhouse was deemed too small for the couple's lifestyle and frequent family visits. The strategic decision was made to convert the historic brick structure into a guest house while constructing a new primary residence for the owners. SHED Architecture & Design's approach involved preserving the original roof pitch and the east and west facades of the farmhouse. However, the south facade underwent a complete redesign to maximize the stunning water views of Dyes Inlet. A crucial element of this transformation was the integration of new and replacement windows from Andersen Windows & Doors, a preferred choice for SHED in their historic brick renovation projects. An existing small dormer on the second level was significantly expanded to incorporate two en suite bedrooms. Each of these new bedrooms was outfitted with windows strategically placed to enhance views. Directly beneath these new windows on the south facade, sliding glass doors were installed, aligning vertically with the dormers above. This vertical alignment creates an architectural effect where the glazing appears to cut through the roofline. Prentis Hale, principal at SHED, noted that this alignment of bedroom windows and sliding doors, expressed as a dormer punching through the extended roof eave, was a key design decision. The interior layout, which was previously fragmented, was also significantly improved. The main floor plan was opened up to create a more functional and cohesive living space, better suiting the clients' desired lifestyle. The new sliding glass doors in the living and dining areas not only frame the views but also enhance the indoor/outdoor flow. This redesigned living and dining space has become a favorite spot for the clients, particularly the dining table area where they can enjoy the water views. Hale emphasized the goal to 'daylight the main rooms of the house—living, kitchen, dining, and bedrooms—in a strong, architectural way that was integrated with the building.' The original 1930s farmhouse featured small, compartmentalized rooms centered around a hearth. By removing interior walls, SHED transitioned these separate spaces into an open-plan layout, ideal for social gatherings. For the historic renovation, Andersen E-Series windows were selected for their affordability, quality, and code compliance. The reconfigured 2,182-square-foot home now includes two bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. The upstairs en suite bedrooms are nearly symmetrical and benefit from the new south-facing dormer windows, which provide views of the Dyes Inlet. The interior design features warm, Scandinavian-inspired aesthetics, creating an inviting atmosphere for both the couple and their guests. The SHED team successfully modernized the farmhouse while preserving its inherent charm and structural integrity, demonstrating that direct design gestures can lead to remarkable outcomes. #FarmhouseRenovation #DormerExpansion #ArchitecturalDesign #WaterfrontProperty #HistoricPreservation #AndersenWindows #OpenPlanLiving #ScandinavianInterior #KitsapPeninsula