This Editor's Harlem Studio Is Closet-less and Tiny, But the Wainscoting Alone Makes Up for It

The article explores the studio apartment of interior designer Dan Mazzarini, principal at BHDM Design, located in a historic Greenwich Village building in New York City. This 480-square-foot space, once an industrial factory and later artists' lofts rumored to have housed figures like Jackson Pollock and Diego Rivera, now serves as Mazzarini's home. Despite its small size, the apartment is rich in history and personal character, featuring items collected from various global markets, family heirlooms, and contemporary retail pieces. Mazzarini's approach to living in a compact space challenges conventional notions of small-space living. He annually hosts holiday parties for around 80 guests, demonstrating that square footage should not restrict one's lifestyle. His philosophy involves creatively maximizing the use of space, such as temporarily removing his bed to accommodate large gatherings, embodying a "Holly Golightly vibe" where champagne flows and people gather. A key design strategy employed by Mazzarini is to conceptualize the studio as a "deluxe little hotel suite." This approach is evident in the kitchen, where all appliances, including the dishwasher and fridge, are concealed behind panel-front millwork with a blue-gray cerused finish and natural white oak shelves. Instead of traditional dinnerware storage, these open shelves display art and photographs, reflecting a curated and personal aesthetic. Mazzarini identifies as a maximalist, humorously calling himself a "fancy hoarder" who loves to be surrounded by beautiful objects. He maintains his collections through smart storage solutions and a ruthless decluttering method: if an item is touched twice without being stored, it is discarded. This balance allows him to freely acquire cherished items while preventing clutter from overwhelming the small space. The designer also adheres to a strict neutral color palette, incorporating shades of black, white, gray, camel, and caramel. This choice creates a quiet, cohesive, and sophisticated atmosphere, preventing the space from feeling chaotic despite the diverse range of styles and periods represented by his belongings. He likens his home's aesthetic to his personal style: "somewhere between a white button-down and a black turtleneck." Finally, Mazzarini emphasizes thinking in terms of volume rather than just square footage. He strategically altered the apartment's layout by aligning the entry with the windows to enhance natural light in the kitchen and bath. He also opened up dropped ceilings to increase the vertical space, recognizing that volume is often more crucial than floor area in small living environments. This principle was extended to the bathroom, where he incorporated an extra-tall medicine cabinet and a niche for linen storage, showcasing how verticality can be harnessed for practical and aesthetic benefits. His tips highlight that tall storage solutions and multi-functional, large cabinets are essential for maximizing utility in compact rooms. #StudioApartment #SmallSpaceLiving #InteriorDesign #NYCDesign #MaximalistDecor #SpaceMaximization #DesignTips #HistoricBuilding #NeutralPalette

The article details the creative and personalized apartment of Brooklyn-based photographer Sharon Radisch, focusing on how she transformed her 653-square-foot open studio into a dynamic and comfortable living space. Radisch's Saturday mornings involve tranquil reading sessions in her living room, where she moves between various spots to maximize natural light. Her rescue dog, Ray, named after Ray Eames, shares her calm demeanor, never causing spills on the miniature marble plinth serving as an unconventional coffee table. Radisch is a multidisciplinary artist whose creative pursuits extend beyond photography to include painting, furniture design, and exhibition installations. A significant selling point of her apartment, which she found in October 2020, was its full kitchen, a rarity in her New York living experience, alongside 39th-floor views stretching to the Verrazzano Bridge. After two years in the open studio layout, Radisch sought to introduce separation. She ingeniously crafted a room divider as a DIY project, foregoing costly contractors or furniture makers. Her process involved initially experimenting with fabric and tension poles before constructing a freestanding structure. She applied primer and two coats of 'Mediterranean Teal' paint to a sheet of lightweight corrugated PVC roofing, propping it up with stone lamp bases and poles. This specific shade of blue-green was chosen after 20 swatch tests to ensure a soothing effect. To maintain visual harmony and avoid a stark accent wall, Radisch extended this color into her bedroom nook and parts of the living room. Despite this bold color choice, she considers her style minimalist, aiming to avoid an entirely beige apartment. Radisch meticulously curated her artwork display to enhance the sense of flow within her apartment. Inspired by a Guggenheim exhibition, she strategically incorporated negative space between smaller artworks in her living room corner, even mounting one near the ceiling. This arrangement guides the eye organically upwards and around the room, counteracting a perceived horizontal line and opening up the space. Among her cherished possessions is an announcement card for Jean-Michel Basquiat’s second art show, acquired at auction, which she values deeply for its historical significance over monetary worth. Even her bedroom's plug-in pendant light is unconventionally hung with multiple cord holders, creating a zigzag pattern to add dynamism to a challenging corner, despite a minor injury during installation. Her approach to transforming an awkward space next to the kitchen, outside the bathroom and closets, exemplifies her artistic vision. She painted this area an inky black, embracing its lack of natural light, and displayed framed artworks to accentuate the contrast with white mats. A sculpture on a low side table further defines this gallery-like section. For her clinical-feeling bathroom, she introduced green paint and less precious artworks, arranged without strict symmetry, reflecting her belief that art should be ubiquitous. Throughout her apartment, Radisch demonstrates a thoughtful and creative approach to design, transforming a small open-plan space into a personalized and inspiring home filled with artistic expression and functional innovation. #InteriorDesign #StudioApartment #DIYHomeDecor #RoomDivider #SmallSpaceLiving #ArtisticHome #BrooklynApartment #ColorPalette #MinimalistStyle

Architects Brian Messana and Toby O’Rorke of Messana O’Rorke transformed a 430-square-foot studio apartment in Greenwich Village into a multifunctional living space. The clients desired a pied-à-terre resembling a boutique hotel room, capable of accommodating cooking and entertaining, with the specific requirement of concealing the bed. The design objective was to maximize both the physical and atmospheric size of the singular space, enhance its storage capacity, and create multiple efficient experiences, drawing inspiration from objects such as jewel boxes, steamer trunks, and recreational vehicles. This project followed Messana O’Rorke's previous successful small Manhattan apartment transformations, demonstrating their expertise in reductivist sensibilities. The initial phase of the renovation involved stripping the apartment of all existing internal walls, plumbing fixtures, appliances, and finishes. This cleared the space, leaving only the eight-foot-tall ceilings and a band of west-facing windows that offer views of the Jefferson Market Library Clock Tower and the West Village. This created a blank canvas for the ambitious transformation. To address the concealed bedroom requirement, the designers introduced a "bedroom container." This jewel box-like unit features hinged wall panels clad in unlacquered brass, with its interior wrapped in gray-dyed Italian cowhide. The strategic placement of this cube, three feet from both the entry door and the north wall, effectively delineates an entry vestibule and hallway, optimizing the use of the compact footprint. The apartment’s material palette balances the bright gleam of the brass bedroom container with a predominantly timber finish. Wide-planked white oak floors contribute to this aesthetic, complemented by custom floor-to-ceiling cabinetry on the north and south walls. These cabinets, constructed from fumed and wire-brushed European oak, cleverly conceal the kitchen on the south side and an entertainment center on the north. Beyond their functional and aesthetic roles, these units also serve to dampen noise between adjacent apartments. Despite serving as a city getaway rather than a primary residence, the apartment incorporates ample storage solutions to maintain a visually uncluttered environment. The base of the bedroom container is elevated, providing long-term storage underneath. The custom-built cabinetry offers extensive space for clothing, books, and general storage. The bathroom, located near the entrance, is accessed via a smoke-gray mirrored door, which reflects the brass cube and adds to the illusion of space. Inside, the bathroom features slabs of Carrara marble and fixtures made from unlacquered brass, creating a contrast with the timber-lined living areas. The architects describe the project, named "The Jewel Box," as a study in space efficiency. It aims to create the illusion of a larger space through diverse experiences within a small New York City studio apartment. The success of this transformation was recognized with the 2019 NYCxDESIGN award in the small apartment category. #TinyHomes #StudioApartment #SpaceEfficiency #CustomCabinetry #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #MinimalistDesign #BrassAccents #ManhattanRealEstate

Bella Mancini of Bella Mancini Design undertook the task of furnishing a nearly 3,500-square-foot loft in Dumbo, Brooklyn, for a family of four. The objective was to create a space that offered serenity at the day's end while also accommodating frequent entertaining. The loft, situated in a former industrial building, already possessed significant character with its natural wood columns, exposed brick walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows. High-end white oak floors and a new developer's kitchen were also existing features, meaning Mancini's focus was primarily on furniture, custom millwork, lighting, paint, wallpaper, and soft furnishings. The design process was heavily influenced by the clients' lifestyle. With two preteen daughters, a husband who works from home, and a wife with demanding hours, the need for both relaxation and functionality was paramount. The couple's enjoyment of entertaining also played a crucial role in the layout and furnishing choices. This led to the establishment of two distinct dining areas: a casual space near the large windows featuring an Eero Saarinen tulip table, wicker chairs, and a custom banquette that doubles as a desk, and a more formal dining setup elsewhere in the loft. The open kitchen and living area, centrally located, were designed for fluid movement and informal gatherings, encouraging guests to choose any available seat rather than adhering to a formal dining structure. Mancini aimed to infuse a relaxed, breezy Californian aesthetic into the New York setting. However, acknowledging the clients' British background and their Hamptons home's English country style, some glamorous and sparkly touches were incorporated to satisfy their preference for a slightly dressier city environment. The kitchen, visible upon entry, features a dropped ceiling painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe to conceal wiring, with Louis Poulsen glass globe pendants illuminating the island. The foyer is anchored by a vintage Scandinavian piece, setting an immediate tone for the home's curated style. Custom elements are prevalent throughout the loft, such as the banquette in the casual dining area, which is also painted in Farrow & Ball's Downpipe, a dark gray used in multiple spaces. The living area showcases a sophisticated and unconventional color palette, including a pink Chesterfield sofa complemented by vintage ochre and gray armchairs, with two coffee tables sourced from Jayson Home. The formal dining area is defined by pink grasscloth wall covering, featuring chrome Breuer chairs from Knoll upholstered in durable mohair, surrounding a wood table from the Danish Design Store. A custom-designed credenza by Mancini further enhances this space. The powder room received a facelift with Ellie Cashman floral wallpaper, an Apparatus light fixture, and a vanity painted in Farrow & Ball's Dead Salmon. The daughters' rooms also feature personalized designs, such as tie-dyed wallpaper from Donghia and canopy beds, alongside custom-built desks and bookshelves designed by Mancini. The master bedroom includes nightstands from Lawson Fenning, a whimsical side table from Artemest, and a chaise lounge from Gubi, with Italian garment-dyed linens from Society Limonata at ABC Carpet & Home. These design choices collectively create a functional, stylish, and comfortable environment tailored to the family's needs and aesthetic preferences. #BellaMancini #BellaManciniDesign #InteriorDesign #LoftDesign #OpenPlanLiving #DumboBrooklyn #CustomMillwork #ResidentialInteriors

Kiara Cristina Ventura, founder of PROCESSA, an art studio space and curatorial platform, has cultivated a tranquil and highly functional home within her Brooklyn studio apartment, despite its initial lack of storage. Having lived in the space since 2019 with her partner, artist Kameron Robinson, Ventura was immediately drawn to the apartment's exposed brick, dedicated studio area, cool location, and proximity to the train. However, a significant challenge emerged: the absence of closets and limited storage, with only kitchen cabinets offering any built-in space. Recognizing this constraint, Ventura and Robinson embarked on a mission to thoughtfully design their living area, prioritizing intentionality to create a peaceful and organized refuge amidst the bustling New York City environment. Ventura, a spiritual individual, imbues her design style with elements of spirituality and art. Her home features numerous candles, sage, and palo santo, reflecting her desire for a zen-like atmosphere. Maintaining a clean and organized space is paramount for her, as it allows her to feel grounded and rested. This focus on organization, coupled with the apartment's storage limitations, necessitated the selection of multifunctional furniture that could simultaneously display art and provide essential storage. The couple's solution began with two side-by-side IKEA BILLY Bookcases, arranged to form a shelf wall. These white bookcases, designed to emulate an art gallery, are meticulously styled with books, small sculptural objects, and plants. Cleverly, cameras and other electronics, typically hidden away, are openly showcased as part of the decor. Given their backgrounds in the art world, Ventura and Robinson have an extensive collection of art books, which are used not just for reading but also as decorative elements throughout their home. Further demonstrating their inventive approach to storage, an IKEA KALLAX Shelf Unit serves multiple purposes. It functions as a music station while discreetly housing miscellaneous items like mail and sunglasses in three of its four cubbies. The remaining cubby is dedicated to their visible record collection, ensuring easy access, while the top surface displays their turntable, speakers, and other decorative pieces. To address the need for storing sentimental objects without creating clutter, Ventura devised a functional gallery wall. This wall integrates three floating IKEA EKET Cabinets amidst various paintings and prints. These cabinets, filled with photos, candles, and vases, blend seamlessly with the artwork, contributing to the overall aesthetic while providing hidden storage. Ventura challenges the notion that a zen space must be devoid of color, describing her apartment as vibrant and light. The bedroom area is thoughtfully delineated from the living room by one of Robinson’s artworks – a large dyed canvas inspired by the sun, featuring warm yellow, orange, and red tones. Many other colorful pieces in the apartment are works by Latine and Black artists, a reflection of Ventura's commitment to uplifting these communities in her professional life. Beyond aesthetics, Ventura's home design draws inspiration from her Dominican-American heritage, incorporating elements influenced by her family's spirituality, such as altars with gems and crystals. These practices, observed during her upbringing, have informed her creation of a personal altar near her bedroom, symbolizing a protective and intentional space. Ventura emphasizes the importance of personalizing one’s home to create meaningful connections with one’s surroundings, making it a truly grounding and spiritual haven. #StudioApartment #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeOrganization #IKEAHacks #ArtCurator #SpiritualDecor #MultifunctionalFurniture #BrooklynHome #InteriorDesign

Natto Balladares, a men's concept designer for Urban Outfitters, resides in a 600-square-foot studio apartment in Philadelphia's Fishtown neighborhood. Having moved from Washington, D.C. nearly two years prior, Balladares used this opportunity to establish his first independent living space. He found the studio appealing due to its affordability, charming character, large windows offering ample natural light, and quality finishes such as concrete countertops and wooden floors. Recognizing the potential for studios to feel impersonal, Balladares focused on creating a warm, personal, and stylish environment. His design philosophy emphasizes mixing different ideas rather than adhering strictly to one style. He combines contemporary pieces with elements like rough wood and pops of color to achieve balance. A significant aspect of his design is the integration of numerous plants, which create a rich interior landscape despite the absence of a traditional yard. These 'statement plants' are sculptural and make a strong design impression, mixed and matched in decorative pots to create an eclectic look. The plants also serve a functional purpose by subtly separating the sleeping, dining, and work areas within the open-plan studio. Balladares believes in creating distinct 'moments' in open spaces to break them up while maintaining flow, and his diverse plant collection, featuring everything from palms to succulents, helps achieve this. Another key element in his small space design is a custom-made A-frame clothing rack positioned at the foot of his bed. As a fashion designer, Balladares faces a common challenge of limited closet space. This custom rack allows him to display a curated selection of his clothing, turning special pieces, such as a vintage leather bomber jacket, into part of the decor. This approach transforms a practical storage solution into an artistic display. Other thoughtful details contributing to the studio's unique character include copper pipes used as clothing rods, copper-colored hangers, a carefully selected art collection, and baseball caps and fedoras displayed on the wall. Balladares' approach reflects a broader trend he observes in contemporary design and fashion, where individuals seek to create unique spaces that express their personal style rather than conforming to catalog aesthetics. He notes that fashion and design are dynamic, moving away from singular styles towards a more personalized and eclectic expression. His studio exemplifies how a small space can be transformed into a highly individual and stylish home through thoughtful design choices, the integration of nature, and the display of personal items. #SmallSpaceDesign #StudioApartment #InteriorDesign #FishtownPhiladelphia #HomeDecor #PlantDecor #PersonalStyle #UrbanOutfitters

Bronte Athearn, an interior stylist, and her partner, Jordan, moved into a 1,200-square-foot loft apartment in Los Angeles after spending six months living in a Ram Promaster van during the beginning of the pandemic. Athearn quickly realized the significant need for additional storage solutions in their new loft, as it only had one small closet and a tiny cubby. This personal experience highlighted the critical importance of efficient storage, whether in a compact mobile living space or a larger apartment. To address their storage needs and add a unique design element to their loft, Athearn conceived the idea of a 12-foot-tall, 8-foot-long bookshelf. This impressive structure was intended not only to store books but also to display various decorative objects that Athearn, whose job involves collecting numerous items for styling, had accumulated. She envisioned the bookshelf as a "showstopper" that would showcase the couple's cherished possessions and act as a central visual feature in their home. An additional benefit of the bookshelf was its ability to function as a room divider, creating a sense of separation between the living room and the bedroom area in their open-plan loft. Initially, the couple faced a substantial financial hurdle. Inquiring with friends in the construction business, they received estimates for a floor-to-ceiling shelving system ranging from $4,000 to $7,000. This high cost, largely due to increased lumber prices during the pandemic, nearly led them to abandon the project. However, Jordan's father, Mark, a seasoned contractor, was able to secure construction pine at a significantly reduced price of $9 per slab from a contact in San Diego. This fortunate connection brought their total budget for labor and materials down to just $500, making the ambitious project financially feasible. During the construction phase, Athearn designed the bookshelf to integrate seamlessly with the loft's existing architectural features, specifically the beams from the early 1900s. She planned the shelving to wrap around these beams, leaving a small walkway rather than extending it to the centermost pole. The wood pieces at the top were carefully cut to curve around the base of the ceiling beam, ensuring the structure appeared as an original part of the loft's design rather than a standalone piece of furniture. A challenge arose during installation when they discovered the old floors were slightly slanted. Mark meticulously cut each vertical piece to varying heights to compensate for this unevenness, ensuring the shelves appeared perfectly straight. Athearn opted not to paint the pine, preferring to let the raw material naturally patina and age over time. For styling, she designed each shelving nook to be 1 foot tall, allowing ample space for taller decorative items and trailing greenery, which she creatively used as a form of natural curtain. Her styling philosophy emphasized creating cohesion by grouping similar-colored objects while mixing shapes and sizes to add visual dimension. She also incorporated natural elements like rocks, branches, and leaves collected during their van travels, using them as reminders of their journey and adding a personal touch to the display. Athearn also ensured that the displayed items would look appealing from both sides of the divider. Ultimately, the 12-foot bookshelf successfully transformed their open loft into a space with a clear distinction between the living area and the bedroom, providing a much-desired sense of privacy. This division meant that while friends visiting could still crash on the couch, there was a psychological barrier preventing the bed from becoming a secondary seating area. The project not only solved their storage problem but also created a visually striking and functional element that enhanced the comfort and organization of their home, proving that thoughtful design and resourceful execution can achieve significant home improvements on a modest budget. #DIYProject #LoftLiving #BookshelfDesign #RoomDivider #HomeRenovation #InteriorStyling #BudgetFriendly #StorageSolutions #CreativeDesign

Lisa le Duc, a UK-born designer now residing in California, undertook a home office renovation that strategically addressed the challenge of unusually tall ceilings by aiming to reduce the perceived height of the space to eye level. Her primary design choice involved covering the room's pitched ceiling with a large-scale, forest-inspired wallpaper from British brand Mini Moderns. This application created an immersive effect, making the office feel like a treehouse nestled within a canopy of Douglas firs, an illusion enhanced by the tree branches visible through the windows and the adjacent nature reserve. Beyond the unique ceiling treatment, le Duc incorporated several other distinctive elements into the office. For storage, raw, unstained plywood cabinets were installed along two walls, offering both closed and open shelving. This custom solution provided a cost-effective alternative to traditional oak millwork, with the designer noting that the price depends on the plywood grade. A-grade plywood, being smoother, is more suitable for painting, while D-grade contains more visible flaws. The bespoke cabinets also featured slanted ledges, specifically designed to display design books in an engaging manner, avoiding a simple row of book spines. For the flooring, after removing old carpeting, le Duc opted for large plywood sheets. These sheets were sealed between seams to create the appearance of a solid floor and then painted in a high-sheen taupe-gray, matching the wallpaper's background, to mimic polished concrete. This choice contributed to the overall cohesive and intentional aesthetic of the room. Lighting, crucial for any workspace, was addressed with a wall-mounted Muller Van Severen fixture. This particular fixture boasts an exaggerated arched neck, which directs light from its opaque glass shade directly over the work area, effectively saving valuable desk space. The furniture selection included a vintage Arne Jacobsen Series 7 office chair from the early 1960s, sourced through Almond and Company in San Francisco, maintaining a theme of European-designed pieces. The worktop itself was a custom wood piece, supported by basic white IKEA table legs. A standout feature of the renovation is the custom-fabricated wavy banding applied around the window frames. Inspired by a scalloped edge trend observed on Instagram, le Duc digitally designed and cut this trim from the same plywood used for the cabinets using a Sharper Tools CNC router. This wavy trim serves multiple functions: it breaks up the rectilinear elements of the room, creates a subtle transition between the vibrant wallpaper and the soft off-white walls, and ingeniously conceals the blind mechanisms by extending approximately six inches from the wall. The final touch of a black Vitra bird figure perched in the space further enhances the tree-like, natural ambiance. The renovation transformed the office into a unique and visually engaging workspace that effectively manages the verticality of the room through clever design choices and material applications. #HomeOfficeDesign #WallpaperedCeiling #WavyWindowTrim #CustomCabinetry #PlywoodFlooring #InteriorRenovation #SpaceTransformation #UniqueLighting #EuropeanFurniture

Interior designer Lisa le Duc, originally from the U.K. and now residing in California, recently undertook a home office renovation with a unique approach to addressing high ceilings. Instead of embracing the typical spaciousness offered by tall ceilings, le Duc aimed to create a more intimate and enclosed environment, describing her vision as bringing the height down to eye level. Her primary method for achieving this was to apply a large-scale, forest-inspired wallpaper from British brand Mini Moderns to the pitched ceiling. This design choice resulted in an office that evokes the feeling of being in a treehouse, surrounded by a canopy of Douglas firs, complementing the actual tree branches visible outside the windows that overlook a nature reserve. Beyond the ceiling, le Duc continued the innovative design throughout the office. The walls not lined with windows are covered with raw, unstained plywood cabinets, offering both closed storage and open shelving. These custom units provided a cost-effective alternative to traditional oak millwork, with the specific grade of plywood impacting the final appearance and price. A notable feature of these cabinets is a section of slanted ledges, designed to display books in an engaging manner rather than just showing their spines. For the flooring, after removing old carpeting, le Duc opted for large plywood sheets sealed at the seams to create the illusion of a solid surface. This floor was then painted a high-sheen taupe-gray, matching the wallpaper's background, to mimic polished concrete. Lighting in the office was also carefully considered, with le Duc choosing a wall-mounted Muller Van Severen fixture. This piece features an exaggerated arched neck, directing light from an opaque glass shade precisely over the work area, thus conserving valuable desk space. The office furniture includes a vintage Arne Jacobsen Series 7 office chair from the early 1960s, sourced from Almond and Company in San Francisco, alongside a custom wood worktop supported by basic white IKEA table legs. A distinctive design element is the custom-fabricated wavy banding around the window frames. Inspired by a trend of scalloped edges observed on Instagram, le Duc digitally designed and then cut this trim from the same plywood used for the cabinets, using a Sharper Tools CNC router. This wavy trim not only visually breaks up the linear elements of the space but also functions as a subtle divider between the graphic wallpaper and the soft off-white walls. Additionally, its six-inch projection cleverly conceals the blinds when rolled up. The overall design culminates in a cohesive, nature-inspired workspace, observed by a black Vitra bird figure perched within the room. #HomeOfficeDesign #WallpaperedCeiling #WavyWindowTrim #InteriorDesign #PlywoodCabinetry #SustainableDesign #OfficeRenovation #CustomMillwork #VintageFurniture

In one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Philadelphia, finding a historic rental that aligns with a modern lifestyle can be challenging. Creative consultant and interior stylist Alexandra Morris Flint encountered this while searching for an apartment in early 2018. While many charming townhomes were available at affordable prices, they often proved to be too small or had low ceilings, which was a significant consideration given her husband's height. Morris Flint and her husband initially visited an apartment with 14-foot ceilings and oversized windows, which, despite being the first they saw, left a lasting impression due to the abundant natural light. Although the apartment’s historic exterior contrasted with its recently renovated, classic "white box" interior, Morris Flint saw potential to infuse it with character. Her first step was to repaint the space, transitioning from a cold, flat gray to Benjamin Moore’s Simply White to create a warmer ambiance. Due to the open floor plan, she strategically used Farrow & Ball’s Parma Gray to differentiate the living room from the kitchen, painting the walls adjacent to the island and cabinetry in the contrasting hue. To further personalize the space, the couple immediately hired an electrician to replace the existing light fixtures. They chose large-scale pendants, 19 inches in diameter, by Thomas O’Brien, which enhanced the vaulted ceilings and transformed the apartment from a generic listing into a more inviting home. Morris Flint also highlights that lighting fixtures are a renter-friendly upgrade as they can be taken when a lease ends. Morris Flint adopted a gradual approach to decorating, allowing the apartment to evolve over time, consistent with her relaxed and lived-in aesthetic. She views a home as a living laboratory for creative exploration and style development. This philosophy guided the placement of their IKEA dining table, which became a central feature after experimenting with various layouts. Initially positioned under the windows, it was moved to a more central location to optimize the floor plan, now serving as both a dining area and a room divider, draped with a Zsuzsanna Nyul textile. Morris Flint advises flexibility with furniture arrangements, noting that initial ideas often need adjustment once one is living in the space. Her signature 14-foot-tall gallery wall, a focal point of the apartment, also evolved through experimentation. Initially a smaller, more cautious arrangement, it was rehung multiple times before extending to the ceiling. Morris Flint's approach to gallery walls involves anchoring the display with two or three larger pieces and then filling in with smaller details. She emphasizes that impactful art doesn't require a large budget, incorporating sentimental items like a restaurant valet ticket and a vintage wallpaper fragment. This creative ingenuity extends beyond wall decor; the couple's bed features a unique headboard made from a folding screen borrowed from her mother, designer Suzanne Kasler, adapted with brackets and a coordinating bed skirt. Three years into living in the apartment, Morris Flint continues to refine the layout and introduce new elements, embracing the impermanence inherent in decorating a rental. Her advice to others is to allow time to live in a space before feeling pressured to decorate everything at once, as this iterative process is key to creating an authentic and happy home. #RentalDecor #HomeStyling #GalleryWall #InteriorDesign #PhiladelphiaHomes #SmallSpaceDesign #DIYDecor #CreativeLiving #ApartmentTherapy

The article showcases Micro House, a 430-square-foot dwelling designed by architect Elizabeth Herrmann for an artist. Located on a sloping meadow in Vermont with views of Camel’s Hump peak, the project aimed to create a beautiful, compact, and energy-efficient home on a tight budget. Herrmann approached the design as an opportunity to advance the conversation around tiny homes, moving beyond mere utilitarian features to focus on aesthetic and spatial experiences. Despite its small footprint, Micro House achieves a sense of spaciousness through deliberate design choices. Herrmann utilized strategic window sizing and placement to define interior areas without resorting to traditional room divisions. This approach ensured a continuous flow throughout the open-plan home while providing distinct focal points and optimizing natural light and ventilation. The architect specifically lauded Marvin Windows and Doors for their wide range of window sizes, which allowed for precise fine-tuning to meet her design vision. This meticulous selection of windows contributes significantly to the home’s ability to frame specific views, offering a constant connection to the surrounding landscape. A large picture window serves as a central feature, offering a dramatic vista of Camel’s Hump and the Green Mountains, effectively turning the natural scenery into a living artwork above the kitchen/work table. Other windows, including vertical casement and horizontal awning types, are thoughtfully positioned to orient the various "rooms" and provide a meditative link to the site. For instance, awning windows in the kitchen invite both views and the mountain breeze, while long, narrow windows above the beds evoke the vastness of the forest. Given Vermont’s harsh winters, energy efficiency was a critical consideration. The large picture window is equipped with Lo-E 272 argon-filled glass, boasting a low U-factor for superior insulation and thermal performance. This ensures that the home remains comfortable despite the extensive glazing, addressing the challenge of maintaining efficiency with large windows in a small space during cold seasons. The exterior also features a gray-stained, cedar rain screen, further enhancing its ability to withstand the elements. The architectural form of Micro House blends a cabin-in-the-woods feel with a contemporary and innovative shape. Herrmann strategically carved out a corner for a sleeping loft and another for a front porch, contributing to the home's unique cubic structure. The sloping roof design encloses more private areas, such as the bathroom and sleeping space, at its lower end. The careful consideration given to defining spaces and creating a fluid experience within the home underscores Herrmann’s appreciation for the craftsmanship and flexibility offered by Marvin, highlighting their ability to execute complex and special designs. #TinyHome #MicroHouse #VermontArchitecture #EnergyEfficiency #SmallSpaceDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #WindowPlacement #ArtistRetreat #SustainableDesign

Khushboo Rasaily, founder of Platform Design, a Delhi-based architecture and interior design studio, transformed a 1,200-square-foot empty basement into a serene, minimalist office space. The initial space, lacking natural light, was redesigned to foster interaction among team members while also accommodating her two-year-old daughter. The studio now incorporates public and semi-private workspaces, a conference room, a reading room, a pantry, a library, and a breakout area. The renovation focused on maximizing natural light by opening up the site and utilizing existing double-height spaces. The design aesthetic is characterized by a zen-like minimalism, with white walls and ceilings forming a clean backdrop. The material palette is intentionally simple, primarily featuring birch and plywood, which impart a gentle warmth to the environment. Rasaily emphasizes the inherent beauty and talent of these materials when used effectively. The layout was carefully planned to balance fluidity and privacy. Furniture choices are light and minimalist, designed for flexibility, with pieces easily movable to suit different requirements. Low platforms throughout the studio are designed with integrated storage, optimizing space and functionality. An open-plan workstation, configured in a ‘U’ shape with birch-topped desks, occupies the center of the studio. A low, open bookshelf acts as a subtle divider, creating a semi-private nook for quick meetings or focused work, while maintaining visual connectivity with the main workspace. For the conference room, pine partitions with frosted glass panels were installed to define the space without sacrificing the studio’s overall light and airy feel. Similar glass panels on the opposite side ensure visual access to the adjacent work zone. Beyond traditional workspaces, the studio includes dedicated areas for relaxation and informal gatherings. A compact, zen-like reading zone features a simple bench, a small center table, and a slender floor lamp on a cozy taupe rug. A larger section is designated for events, where the furniture serves multiple purposes; plywood planks on the walls function as both seating and display surfaces, and low platform seating in the center includes built-in storage. The decor is deliberately sparse, with only a few select items such as playful dinosaur figurines made from leftover wood, bookends, planters, and woven baskets. This minimalist approach was chosen to prevent decor from clashing with creative thoughts and ideas. Rasaily highlights that the project, undertaken during pandemic lockdowns, taught her the importance of patience, spatial planning, and the effectiveness of using simple materials to create a successful and aesthetically pleasing space. #WorkspaceDesign #MinimalistDesign #DelhiArchitecture #StudioDesign #BirchPlywood #OpenPlanOffice #PlatformDesign #ZenLikeInteriors #CreativeStudio

An interior designer specializing in residential luxury design describes how she transformed her 350-square-foot studio apartment in Chicago into a luxurious and spacious-feeling home. The designer initially faced the challenge of downsizing significantly when relocating from Indianapolis to Chicago, opting for a smaller, more affordable space further from the city center to gain the advantage of a walk-in closet—a rare find in a studio apartment. This closet provides essential storage for clothes, shoes, a dresser, and baskets, serving as a buffer between the living area and the bathroom. The core of her design approach revolved around meticulous space planning, a critical step in interior design. She experimented with various layouts to define three distinct areas within the open studio: a living area, a bedroom, and a dining nook, ensuring the overall design remained cohesive. Area rugs played a crucial role in demarcating these spaces, adding layers, texture, and coziness while also serving a practical purpose by dampening noise from the old building's creaky floors. Functional and subtle storage solutions were integrated throughout the apartment. Storage ottomans, for instance, serve multiple functions as footstools, coffee tables, and extra seating, while the bench at the foot of her bed also offers hidden storage. Mirrors are heavily utilized to create an illusion of greater space, with an extra closet's mirrored doors already contributing to this effect. A large leaner mirror was strategically placed to reflect the longest visual wall space, maximizing the perception of roominess. A consistent color palette of black and cream was maintained across all areas of the apartment, including visible closet sections, to unify the space and make it feel more open. Metal finishes, specifically polished chrome and nickel, were chosen for their reflective qualities, further enhancing the illusion of a larger area. The incorporation of glass and acrylic furniture and accents also contributed to an open and airy feel, as these transparent materials provide structure without visual bulk, allowing light to pass through. While maintaining overall cohesiveness, the designer introduced eclectic touches, such as using differently shaped nightstands on either side of her bed. Symmetry was achieved through consistent wood finishes and marble tops, rather than identical items. In her small kitchen, which had limited counter space, she installed a stainless-steel island to expand work surfaces and add an industrial aesthetic. Due to a lack of storage, appliances and even black flatware and tan kitchenware were chosen to complement the decor and displayed openly, which also encouraged keeping them clean. This approach allowed her to utilize cabinets primarily for pantry items. #InteriorDesign #StudioApartment #SmallSpaceLiving #LuxuryDesign #HomeDecor #SpacePlanning #ChicagoRealEstate #StorageSolutions #MirrorDecor

This article details the transformation of an Art Deco apartment on Fifth Avenue, New York, by BUILTIN Studio for empty nesters, Linda and Ben McGrath. The apartment, which had not been renovated since its construction in 1948, presented a unique challenge and opportunity for the design team. Despite its functional layout and stunning Central Park views, the interiors required a complete overhaul to match the clients' desire for cosmopolitan living and flexible entertaining. Simon Babin, Studio Director at BUILTIN Studio, explains the design process, emphasizing the goal of creating a modern home with warmth and glamour. The redesign began by addressing the apartment's 'estate condition,' which meant outdated interiors. BUILTIN Studio, known for updating older apartments, focused on strategic changes to optimize space and views. A key aspect of the renovation was the reconfigured layout, designed to accommodate both large and intimate gatherings while highlighting the panoramic views of Central Park. The team aimed to infuse warmth into the interiors through a carefully curated color palette, inspired by vibrant stones and striking fabrics, all contributing to an overall Manhattan glamour. The main living room exemplifies this approach, featuring matte Venetian plaster walls that create a sense of lightness and warmth. The plaster, based on Benjamin Moore's 'Muslin' paint, was meticulously developed over several mockups to achieve a soft, tonal texture without appearing overly burnished. This choice significantly contributes to the room's inviting atmosphere, transitioning smoothly from daytime brightness to evening coziness. Continuity and connection between rooms were achieved through modern openings with bespoke trims that echo Art Deco's stepped lines and clean ornamentation. A clever use of textiles further enhances this connection, particularly between the primary bedroom and living room. Identical drapery carried throughout these spaces, combined with a subtle pocket door, creates an illusion of a larger, continuous space, especially when the park-facing windows appear unbroken with the door open. The fabric, Schumacher’s Deco Leaves, chosen in a neutral colorway, pays homage to the building’s Art Deco heritage and became a significant influence on the home's overall palette. The design process involved extensive collaboration with the clients, building selections around fabrics they found appealing. In the dining area, a space-saving yet sophisticated solution was devised: a built-in, gently curved banquette. This feature not only maximizes seating for at least six people but also creates a cozy, contained feeling. The banquette's upholstery, a Woodland Leopard Velvet textile by Schumacher in a golden colorway, became the inspiration for the room's warm and luminous palette. The renovation also introduced new portals, notably the connection between the galley kitchen and the dining area. This transition point was utilized for a dynamic color shift, moving from the dining area's honeyed glow to the kitchen's darker tones of green and yellow, effectively highlighting the architectural feature and encouraging social interaction around the peninsula. The bathrooms allowed for creative experimentation with stone, leading to the selection of richly veined materials with warm undertones. Two private bathrooms were designed for Ben and Linda, each with distinct material palettes and design elements catering to masculine and feminine preferences. Finally, the bedroom was designed as a calm retreat with clean lines and a contemporary palette, intentionally simpler than the owners' previous, more ornate space. This approach allowed their existing Biedermeier furniture to blend seamlessly, adding warmth without disrupting the serene aesthetic. Throughout the apartment, the overarching theme is a visual connection to the Manhattan cityscape, offering the empty nesters and their dog a fully updated and exciting new chapter of city life, where the twinkling city lights become an integral part of their home's charm. #ArtDeco #ManhattanApartment #InteriorDesign #BUILTINStudio #HomeRenovation #ColorPalette #EmptyNesters #LuxuryDesign #FifthAvenue

Limdim House Studio has undertaken a renovation project for the Brown Box apartment in Vietnam, transforming a previously commercial two-bedroom unit into a serene one-bedroom home. The design philosophy centers on creating a gentle and calm living space, inspired by the owner, Ms. Brown, and her preference for the color brown. The renovation involved a significant reorganisation of the apartment's layout, primarily by removing existing walls to foster a more open and fluid environment. A key design element implemented throughout the apartment is the extensive use of curved walls and arched niches. These architectural features serve to soften the interior, eliminating sharp corners and contributing to a sense of fluidity and openness. Complementing these curves are tiered cornices, which offer a contemporary interpretation of traditional crown mouldings, further enhancing the gentle aesthetic of the space. The overall design embraces a natural color palette, predominantly featuring light browns, beige, and various wood tones, which collectively evoke a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere. The studio's material selection plays a crucial role in defining the apartment's character. Terrazzo is a prominent material, applied not only to the flooring but also to key furniture pieces such as the kitchen island. This choice provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing surface that contributes to the apartment’s cool and soothing feel, particularly beneficial in Vietnam’s tropical climate due to its heat dissipation properties. The continuous flow of terrazzo from the kitchen island across the floors unifies the main living areas. In the open-plan kitchen and dining area, a rounded island clad in pale terrazzo acts as a central feature, offering additional counter space while blending seamlessly with the apartment's overall design. An arched niche within the kitchen frames the sink, terrazzo countertops, and a semi-circular arrangement of taupe-brown overhead cabinetry, all designed to fit harmoniously within the alcove. The living space, separated from the kitchen and dining area by floor-to-ceiling Melaleuca wood cabinetry and a curved ceiling, continues the theme of natural materials and soft forms. This curved ceiling transitions into an arched wall, subtly demarcating the living zone. Wooden furnishings further tie into the natural aesthetic, ensuring consistency throughout the main living areas. The bedroom, accessed through an arched doorway from the living area, maintains the calm and airy aesthetic. The walls in this private space are finished with a grey plaster-like texture, adding a tactile dimension. An en-suite bathroom adjoins the bedroom, featuring a free-standing terrazzo bathtub positioned beneath a large circular window, which provides a visual connection between the two spaces. Redbrick tiling is used within the en-suite, introducing a contrasting texture while remaining within the natural material palette. Limdim House Studio emphasizes that the primary goal of their design is to create a comfortable and sophisticated living environment that truly resonates with the owner. The studio believes that a successful design goes beyond meeting basic needs, aiming to foster a sense of enjoyment and peace within the home. This project reflects their architectural and interior design approach, which focuses on integrating natural materials, subtle curves, and a calming color scheme to create a harmonious and inviting space. #LimdimHouseStudio #VietnamInteriors #ApartmentRenovation #CurvedWalls #ArchedNiches #TerrazzoDesign #NaturalPalette #OpenPlanLiving #ContemporaryInteriors

Daniel Fletcher, a renowned fashion designer, showcases his unique four-storey flat in a converted warehouse in Southwark, London. His home, a former hops factory from the late 19th century, was originally two separate flats that were combined when the top floor owners acquired the lower unit, integrating the communal staircase into their living space. The residence boasts two kitchens, three bedrooms, and three bathrooms, providing ample space for Fletcher, who meticulously curates his surroundings. Fletcher, known for his wearable yet subtly subversive fashion aesthetic, launched his label after graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2015, quickly gaining recognition with Harry Styles as his first customer. He was nominated for the LVMH prize in 2017 and was a finalist on Netflix's 'Next in Fashion.' More recently, he was appointed Royal Ascot's inaugural creative director, overseeing their annual Lookbook and Millinery Collective. His design philosophy, which he applies to both fashion collections and his home, starts with a neutral base of cream, black, or navy, accented with pops of color. Despite the industrial nature of the warehouse, characterized by exposed brick, Fletcher has successfully created a "minimalist cosy" atmosphere. He incorporates soft textures like bouclé and traditional tailoring fabrics such as canvas and calico to soften the raw elements. Key furniture pieces include a fuzzy cream sofa, a low-slung, mid-century-style chair from Bali, a walnut dining table from Habitat, and a three-legged marble table from Soho Home. These blend seamlessly with reclaimed wood featuring rusted nails, repurposed by architects for beams and drawer fronts. Fletcher's creative endeavors extend beyond fashion and interior design. His kitchen shelves display ceramics he crafted during a six-week course in Hackney, demonstrating his versatility and hands-on approach. Large canvases, painted after intense work periods, adorn his living space, reflecting his artistic heritage inherited from his art teacher grandmother, whose works also grace his walls. These include a line drawing of a cow and a landscape of Arizona painted in 1990, given to him on his 21st birthday. The home is filled with items of significant sentimental value. A giant photograph of an iceberg by Andrew Irwin commemorates Fletcher's trip to Antarctica. In his bedroom, a framed LP sleeve of the Rolling Stones’ 'Goat’s Head Soup' serves as a tribute to his late father and inspired his autumn/winter 2022 collection. Pieces from the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition further personalize the space. The flat also functions as a relaxed setting for client fittings, offering a more personal experience away from the bustling studio, attended by notable figures like Nick Grimshaw, Douglas Booth, James McAvoy, and Marcelino Sambé. Fletcher's home is a testament to his comprehensive design vision, blending industrial architecture with personal touches, art, and sentimental objects to create a harmonious and inviting living environment that reflects his creative journey and personal history. #DanielFletcher #FashionDesigner #WarehouseConversion #MinimalistCosy #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SouthwarkFlat #ArtisticHome #ReclaimedMaterials