This Yorktown Heights Home Design Makes Space for Greenery

The article details a significant renovation project undertaken by Jade Timmerman of JNT Interiors in a historic Hyde Park bungalow. The project aimed to blend the home's original character and heritage with modern living requirements for a young, active family of five. Initiated in 2019 and completed for a 2022 move-in, the renovation expanded the living space from 2,500 square feet to 5,200 square feet. The expanded home now features two stories, five bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage, accommodating the family's needs while also providing space for cherished family heirlooms. Timmerman's design philosophy for this project was heavily inspired by Southern homes, aiming to imbue the space with a sense of warmth, richness, family, and togetherness. A key aspect of her approach was ensuring cohesion throughout the home, where each room possesses unique elements and a distinct feeling, yet all contribute to an aligned and harmonious overall design as one navigates through the spaces. Several specific design elements and areas of the home are highlighted. The original fireplace was refinished in Benjamin Moore’s Stormy Monday, complemented by a Nero Marquina marble hearth and a custom-made Rowe loveseat upholstered in charcoal performance velvet. An inviting sunroom features an outdoor fireplace with black herringbone tile, vibrant blue and green accents, cozy faux wicker chairs, and an outdoor-friendly dining table, ideal for evening relaxation. The bar area showcases custom-painted inset cabinetry paired with walnut wood hardware, adding a warm touch to the space. For the laundry room, Timmerman selected Moroccan-style zellige tile in a checkerboard pattern with inset stars. The unique nature of zellige tile, being hand-cut and hand-glazed, ensures that no two tiles are identical, contributing to the room's distinctive character. The master bathroom is another example of Timmerman's ability to harmonize old and new elements, featuring an ornate marble mosaic floor, a crystal chandelier, a Waterworks bathtub, and custom white oak cabinets. Beyond the interior, the property includes an outdoor area designed for entertainment. A large backyard in Hyde Park, a desirable commodity, was brought to life with a pool and hot tub designed by Landmark Pools. This outdoor oasis also includes a well-appointed outdoor kitchen and bar area, catering to outdoor cooking and entertaining. The comprehensive design and expansion transformed the historic bungalow into a spacious, functional, and aesthetically cohesive 'forever family home' that respects its historical roots while embracing modern comfort and style. #HydePark #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #HistoricRenovation #SouthernHomes #LuxuryInteriors #JNTInteriors #CustomHome #FamilyHome

Textile designer Aelfie Oudghiri's Brooklyn townhouse, shared with her husband, Hicham, and daughter, Mirah, serves as a living showcase for her eponymous line of bedding, soft goods, rugs, and furniture. Housed in a former industrial pencil factory, the 1,800-square-foot space reflects an easy, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish aesthetic deeply rooted in Oudghiri’s upbringing. Her parents, both builders and developers, introduced her to the transformative power of design early on, and an oversized Kerman rug from her childhood ignited her passion for textiles, inspiring her eventual career. Many pieces in her home are samples from her company, allowing her to live with and test products before their official launch, ensuring they are practical and durable. Oudghiri's journey into design began with an e-commerce store in her teens, focusing on products made by other young women, which taught her the foundations of design. Her childhood dream, however, was to design bedding, driven by frustration with the gendered, corny, or poor-quality synthetic options available at the time. Her early sketchbooks are filled with bedding concepts, foreshadowing her future in textile design. When designing her home, the living room was the starting point, prioritized for its comfort, openness, and suitability for entertaining. Her Moroccan husband influenced the layout, seeking a space reminiscent of a Moroccan salon with ample seating for guests. This led to the inclusion of a mint green sofa from CB2, praised for its durability, and another from ABC Carpet & Home. Oudghiri approaches home design with a lack of inherent attachment to spaces, a common sentiment in New York, preferring to evolve the design slowly. Her access to her own home decor line means her apartment is filled with a complementary array of her designs, from bath mats and pillows to poufs and tables, all serving as practical testaments to their wear and tear resistance. A key design element for Oudghiri was baby-proofing and creating a kid-friendly environment for her daughter, Mirah. The massive, open layout allowed for a play-friendly space free from hard obstacles or fragile items. The open and industrial nature of the former factory presented challenges in making the space feel cozy and welcoming. Oudghiri overcame this by strategically using rugs and artwork to soften the industrial brick walls and warm up the cold aesthetic. Her favorite aspects of the home include the exposed beams, high ceilings, abundant wall space for art, and the intricate texture of the floors. A design element she recommends for readers is foregoing a traditional coffee table in favor of side tables and poufs. This decision, initially driven by an inability to find a beloved coffee table, later proved invaluable for creating a large, open play area for her daughter. Visitors often comment on the home's established feel, assuming Oudghiri has lived there for a long time, despite only a few years passing, indicating the successful integration of her personal style and products. #TextileDesign #BrooklynHome #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ColorfulDecor #PatternMixing #KidFriendlyDesign #IndustrialConversion #DesignerHome

Living green walls, or vertical gardens, are gaining popularity in residential settings, moving beyond their traditional use in corporate and hotel environments. These installations are praised for their aesthetic appeal, their ability to provide noise insulation, purify indoor air, and create a calming atmosphere. Many plant enthusiasts also consider them a form of living art. One example is De Anna Caiozzo, a Bed Stuy resident who installed a floor-to-ceiling green wall in her townhouse's parlor. Caiozzo, who values plants for their air-cleaning and positive energy properties, opted for a green wall as an alternative to numerous potted plants, which would have made her room feel cluttered. Her four-foot-wide wall, featuring ferns, ficus, cyclamen, spider plants, and African violets, cost approximately $10,000. It was designed to offer a wild and textured look, serving as a significant art piece that aligns with her preference for bold yet simple aesthetics. While DIY kits for green walls are available, landscape architects caution against self-installation due to potential issues like leaks, pests, or plant death. Gennaro Brooks-Church of Eco Brooklyn, who installed Caiozzo's vertical garden, has refined his installation techniques over a decade, emphasizing that proper installation is crucial for long-term success and minimal maintenance. Eco Brooklyn's process involves attaching a plywood base, a waterproof plastic sheet, and a top layer made of coconut coir and a synthetic binder, into which plants are inserted. An integrated irrigation system drains into a trough connected to the sewer. The cost for such installations is around $150 per square foot, or $12,000 for an 11-by-7-foot wall, including initial bi-weekly maintenance and subsequent quarterly visits. Although plants require some attention, Brooks-Church notes that maintenance is relatively minimal once correctly installed. Accessibility for maintenance and plant replacement is a key consideration for green walls. Landscape designer Mac Carbonell, who installed a two-story green wall in a Williamsburg townhouse, highlights that larger walls become increasingly difficult to maintain. He describes green walls as a significant commitment, requiring years of work. As a lower-maintenance and more cost-effective alternative, landscape architect Kim Hoyt designed two walls of vines for a Fort Greene townhouse. Instead of a pocket system, these vines are directly attached to a waterproof stucco wall and irrigated at the base, making the room feel less constrained. Creeping fig is primarily used, supplemented by other plants, and has proven successful in growing directly on the wall. Gardener Michele Paladino, who maintains Hoyt's vine walls, notes their easy and inexpensive upkeep, costing under $1,000 annually. In contrast, a traditional green wall with a pocket system, which she also tends, costs about $4,000 per year, indicating that regular green walls are more labor-intensive. These examples illustrate the diverse approaches and considerations involved in integrating living green walls into residential spaces, offering both aesthetic and environmental benefits. #LivingGreenWalls #VerticalGardens #BrooklynHomes #InteriorDesign #PlantWalls #EcoBrooklyn #HomeDecor #GreenLiving #UrbanGardening

This Buckhead residence exemplifies Frank Lloyd Wright's "organic architecture" philosophy, seamlessly integrating modern design with natural elements. The home, designed by architect Scott West for a family of four, utilizes natural materials like wood, stone, and concrete throughout its structure to create a continuous flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design's core principle is to avoid disrupting the landscape, instead enhancing its inherent beauty through thoughtful architectural choices. A key feature of the house is the extensive use of glass, including ipe ceilings that extend over glass transom windows and out to the terrace, and glass-walled "pocket gardens" strategically placed in the entry, primary suite, and even the basement garage. These elements introduce organic textures and maintain a visual connection with nature from various points within the home. The most striking element is a 40-foot-long retractable glass wall that spans the entire rear of the house, effectively dissolving the boundary between the interior living space and the outdoor environment, especially the pool area. Project designer Whitney Ray of Wyeth Ray Interiors highlights the home's continuous flow, noting that the design encourages the family to utilize the entire dwelling, with a central "spine" that connects all rooms. The owners, who previously resided in a four-story townhouse, desired a single-floor lifestyle in their new home, a preference that influenced the expansive layout. This design also allowed for the incorporation of a large subterranean garage, accommodating the owners' sports car collection. The aesthetic of the home draws inspiration from the owners' extensive travels, particularly to Asia, and their experience in luxury hotel development. This influence is evident in the selection of dramatic, luxurious materials and a minimalist approach to accessories. Furniture is characterized by clean lines and upholstered in dark neutrals, with subtle accents of navy. Accessories are intentionally sparse, contributing to an uncluttered and sophisticated ambiance. The outdoor landscaping further reinforces the serene, nature-inspired theme with the inclusion of pom-pom trees, bamboo, and tall grasses. Throughout the home, bespoke details enhance the organic and luxurious feel. A Tom Dixon blown-glass light fixture with an imperfect, organic quality is featured in the foyer. Concrete panels above a see-through fireplace are arranged in a deliberate abstract pattern. The kitchen boasts a sleek Poliform design with bookmatched marble, chosen for its vibrant character over manmade surfaces. The primary bathroom showcases Calacatta Viola marble and black cork walls, with light streaming through tall windows that overlook a private outdoor shower surrounded by lush foliage. In the dining area, another organic blown-glass fixture softly illuminates a dark marble Poliform table. The living room is designed to foster social interaction, intentionally omitting a television. A see-through metal screen separates it from an adjoining music room, providing both architectural interest and a degree of privacy. The primary bedroom features a wall of windows facing the backyard, where stone walls surrounding the pool are integrated with built-in firepits, planters, and fountains, with architect Scott West contributing to the outdoor space design. A corner of the primary bedroom is transformed into a private oasis by glass walls enclosing a shower garden. White oak floors with a custom stain create a contrast with the primary suite’s dark palette, including a gray mohair-upholstered wall, providing a crisp and fresh feel to the room. The overall result is a home that, despite its urban Buckhead location, evokes a sense of a luxurious, faraway sanctuary, blending intimacy with an expansive connection to its surroundings. #OrganicArchitecture #ModernDesign #GlassWalls #PocketGardens #Buckhead #NaturalMaterials #LuxuryHome #InteriorDesign #LandscapeIntegration

Ben Stern, a child psychotherapist and pottery enthusiast, purchased his 1901 Gowanus home in Brooklyn around the time he started dating Sophie Anderson-Stern, a multidisciplinary artist and tattooist. Stern deliberately left the house sparse for over a year, refraining from significant decorating or furniture purchases, anticipating Sophie's potential move-in and her influence on the interior design. If left to his own preferences, Ben admits the house would have leaned heavily towards mid-century modern aesthetics. However, with Sophie's artistic vision, the home transformed into a vibrant space infused with color and personality. During the initial phase of the renovation, Ben engaged MR Architecture + Decor for a comprehensive remodel. The firm converted the three-unit structure into a single-family home. A faulty rear addition was removed and replaced with two levels of terraces, featuring glass windows and doors. The architectural team installed a high-velocity HVAC system that utilizes flexible hoses, a less bulky alternative to traditional ducts, and opted for conventional electrical rocker switches over complex smart home systems, emphasizing simplicity in design. Many of the home's original details had been lost over time. To reintroduce character, MR Architecture + Decor meticulously replicated the sole surviving newel post on every floor. The original joists in the den were revitalized through wire brushing, and a set of old pocket doors found a new purpose as a unique headboard in the primary bedroom. Sophie further personalized this headboard by layering a small rug, aiming to seamlessly merge their individual styles. A shared design preference for the couple is the color green, which prominently features throughout their home. In the kitchen, they selected Benjamin Moore's Sage Mountain, a gray-green shade for the cabinets, a color they admired so much that they extended its use to their front door. The kitchen's layout was meticulously planned to accommodate two people working simultaneously without obstruction, featuring two sinks and ample counter space. A load-bearing wall was removed to create an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, with two supporting columns discreetly integrated, one of which cuts through the kitchen island, almost imperceptibly. The kitchen also boasts a cold-rolled steel casement window system that offers views of and access to the garden, complete with an outdoor bar counter for entertaining. Incorporating family-made pieces was another key aspect of their decorating. Ben's brother, a woodworker specializing in guitars, crafted a custom long oval dining table from curly maple for the couple. As they prepared for their first baby, Sophie infused the nursery with elements of her half-Korean heritage, such as a norigae hanging for good luck and artwork inspired by Seoul's temple architecture. She intentionally created all the art for the nursery, with one exception by artist Ashley Brown Duran. She also sourced a vintage Danish rocker and adorned the Pinch pendant light, identical to the one in their bedroom, with paper butterflies and moths for a whimsical touch. The nursery walls are painted in Spotswood Teal by Benjamin Moore. Initially, after bringing their newborn home, the couple spent nights in the den on the couch. Now that a routine has been established, the den serves as a space for entertaining and gardening. A stained walnut millwork bar provides a station for cocktails or for arranging fresh flowers from the garden. Sophie, whose tattoo work often features botanicals, cultivated heirloom chrysanthemums during the pandemic, and gardening has become a significant annual focus for her. The landscape design was a collaborative effort between James Stephenson/The Artist Garden and Sophie Anderson-Stern. #HomeTour #BrooklynHome #InteriorDesign #Renovation #NurseryDesign #GreenInteriors #SustainableDesign #DIYHomeDecor #FamilyDecor

This blog post highlights a penthouse apartment located at 217 2nd Avenue in the East Village, which was recently put on the market for $2.8 million. The apartment is a full-floor condo that blends old-world New York charm with rustic design elements. This blend is evident in features such as wide plank pine floors, vintage oak cabinets, and a 'lovingly worn' marble sink. The entrance leads into an industrial-chic commercial-grade kitchen, which features a skylight and a spiral staircase. This kitchen area seamlessly transitions into a spacious dining area. The dining area is characterized by exposed brick walls and aged built-in storage, adding to the apartment's rustic appeal. Pocket doors with etched glass separate the dining room from the living room, which is distinguished by oversized windows, crown molding, and a marble-clad fireplace. The penthouse includes two bedrooms, with a clear distinction in size and amenities between them. The master bedroom offers a wall of closets, abundant natural light, and a second wood-burning fireplace, emphasizing comfort and luxury. Conveniently located just outside the master bedroom are a spa bath and a laundry room, enhancing its functionality. In contrast, the second bedroom is described as small and is situated on the opposite side of the apartment, adjacent to the living room and away from the home's second bathroom, suggesting a less private or less comfortable arrangement compared to the master. A unique feature of this penthouse is its rooftop garden, accessed via the spiral staircase in the kitchen. This rooftop space is described as lush, filled with mature plants, and notably includes a vegetable garden. The presence of a private outdoor space, especially a vegetable garden, is a significant amenity for an urban dwelling. The apartment's location is also highlighted, being only blocks away from Union Square, which offers a vibrant city experience with convenient access to various amenities and activities. This combination of traditional design, functional living spaces, and unique outdoor features positions the penthouse as a desirable property in the East Village market, offering a balance of urban convenience and a tranquil, green retreat. #EastVillagePenthouse #RooftopGarden #VegetableGarden #LuxuryRealEstate #NYCArchitecture #IndustrialChic #VintageDesign #Stribling #UnionSquareProximity

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 blog post highlights a stunning five-bedroom, turn-of-the-century townhouse located at 343 East 84th Street in Yorkville, New York City, currently available for either rent at $20,000 per month or purchase at $5.995 million. The article focuses on the property's luxurious features and its appeal, especially during the winter season. The main floor of the townhouse boasts a majestic ballroom-sized living and dining area, characterized by a soaring, double-height vaulted ceiling. This expansive space is adorned with rich wood-paneled walls on one side and exposed light-colored brick on the other, creating a sophisticated and inviting ambiance. A magnificent mantled fireplace serves as a focal point, contributing to the cozy atmosphere. One of the most notable features of the main living area is a spectacular full wall of casement windows that open up to an 800-square-foot private garden and patio. This outdoor space provides a serene retreat and is ideal for entertaining or quiet relaxation. The kitchen is designed with a modern black-and-white theme, equipped with a Viking range and an oversized Sub Zero refrigerator. A checkerboard floor adds a whimsical touch to the clean lines of the appliances, and ample customized cabinet storage ensures functionality for culinary endeavors. An elegant staircase leads to the parlor floor, which features a sun-drenched lounge with an impressive 11-foot ceiling. This area is distinguished by oversized windows, another fireplace, and extensive built-in cabinets and bookshelves, making it a perfect spot for intimate gatherings or a peaceful escape. Inlaid wood doors open to a paneled balcony that overlooks the grand main floor room, further enhancing the architectural grandeur of the home. The upper two floors of the townhouse accommodate five bedrooms. The master bedroom includes a large terrace that overlooks the garden, offering a picturesque setting for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The property is presented by Jane Beal and Jennie Ma of the Corcoran Group, with photos provided by the same agency and information sourced from CityRealty. #YorkvilleTownhouse #LuxuryRealEstate #NewYorkCityHomes #VaultedCeiling #PrivateGarden #HistoricHome #UpperEastSide #CorcoranGroup #HomeDesign

In densely populated urban environments like New York City, where ground-level green spaces are scarce, rooftop gardens, terraces, and balconies present a significant opportunity to create vital green oases. With over 40,000 acres of potential rooftop space in NYC alone, these elevated areas can be transformed into private, calming retreats that offer a respite from the frenetic pace of city life. This transformation not only enhances personal well-being but also contributes to urban biodiversity and sustainability. New York-based landscape designer Dima Rumiantcev emphasizes a philosophy of boldness and celebration of available space when approaching urban gardening projects. His design process begins by understanding the client's current use of their outdoor area and their aspirations for its future use. This client-centric approach ensures that the garden design is deeply personal and reflects the homeowner's lifestyle, whether they seek a private shield from the city's hustle or an open, entertaining space that maximizes spectacular views. Rumiantcev aims to create urban gardens that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also low-maintenance, sustainable, and capable of thriving for years to come. Functional and practical considerations are integral to the design process. Lighting is crucial, as many city dwellers enjoy their outdoor spaces primarily at night. The unique challenges of urban rooftop environments, such as the US hardiness zone, sun exposure, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures, must also be meticulously accounted for. Rumiantcev, the founder of the award-winning DiMastery Studio, brings a deep understanding of horticulture and landscape architecture to his projects, combining creativity with expertise to craft stunning and sustainable gardens. Creating mindful and meditative spaces is a core aspect of Rumiantcev's vision. He views outdoor spaces as an extension of the home, offering an invaluable connection to nature in an otherwise concrete jungle. Observing plants, insects, and butterflies from one's home can provide moments of joy and relaxation, helping to alleviate daily stress and foster a sense of security and connection to the natural world. To enhance this experience, Rumiantcev often incorporates sensory elements such as vibrant colors, fragrant plants, and even edible plants like herbs, strawberries, and tomatoes, which provide a grounding connection to nature through taste and cultivation. When it comes to planting ideas for urban rooftops and terraces, Rumiantcev adopts a "thriller, filler, and spiller" strategy. The "thriller" acts as a focal point, typically a large shrub or tree, while "filler" plants add bulk and texture, and "spiller" plants cascade over the container edges, softening the overall composition. Native plants are his preferred choice due to their resilience and ecological value, but non-invasive exotic plants are also considered when necessary to achieve a desired aesthetic. Plants must be hardy enough to withstand harsh urban conditions, including frozen winters, scorching summers, and strong winds, which are common in New York City's "wind tunnels." Examples of recommended plants include resilient and long-lasting perennials like _Echinacea purpurea_ (purple coneflower) and _Agastache ‘Blue Fortune’_ (hummingbird mint), which provide color from summer to fall and attract pollinators. Ornamental grasses, such as _Hakonechloa macra_ (Japanese forest grass) and _Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Ha Ha Tonka’_ (little bluestem), are ideal for adding texture, privacy, and visual interest, especially with their seasonal color changes. For trees, the compact and hardy coral bark Japanese Maple (_Acer Palmatum ‘Sango Kaku’_) is a standout choice due to its striking foliage and ability to tolerate urban conditions. Beyond aesthetics, supporting urban wildlife is a crucial environmental benefit of rooftop gardens. Rumiantcev advises incorporating wildlife-friendly garden ideas, such as leaving flower seedheads intact and delaying cutting back grasses to provide food and shelter for beneficial insects and birds. Adding late-season, nectar-rich flowering plants supports migratory species like hummingbirds and monarch butterflies. Even small additions, such as fennel plants, can provide habitats for specific species, contributing to local biodiversity. Weight restrictions are a primary concern for rooftop gardens, and structural engineers should be consulted. Lightweight materials like fiberglass planters and natural clay pebbles at the bottom of pots can help manage weight. While container-grown plants have a limited lifespan compared to those in the ground, proper irrigation, root pruning, and regular feeding can extend their vitality. #UrbanGardening #RooftopGardens #LandscapeDesign #NewYorkCity #Biodiversity #SustainableGardening #ContainerGardening #MindfulLiving #NativePlants

In Pelham, New York, designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce Design embarked on a project to transform a client's home into a soft-hued, textured environment that harmonized with the stately character of the neighborhood. The client, who had already undertaken significant renovations including updating bathrooms, replacing wood flooring, and upgrading the heating system, doors, and moldings, found the decorating aspect of her home daunting. Her introduction to Enger through a mutual acquaintance led to an immediate connection and the initiation of a comprehensive design overhaul. Enger's approach centered on meticulously furnishing the home with luxurious wallcoverings and a diverse array of chic, personalized pieces tailored to the client's preferences. A significant portion of the furnishings and rugs were custom-designed, allowing for considerable creative freedom in achieving a unique aesthetic. The entryway, for instance, features a striking wallcovering from Alt for Living, providing a vibrant and welcoming first impression for guests. The living room was conceived as a comfortable lounge space, anchored by a custom chaise lounge upholstered in a subtly striped fabric from Rogers & Goffigon, perfect for relaxation and reading, illuminated by a tent lamp from Visual Comfort. In the dining room, a blush-colored wallcovering from Kneedler|Fauchère sets a warm and inviting tone. Custom mirrors introduce geometric elements, complemented by an orb lighting fixture from Bourgeis Boheme, while Rogers & Goffigon fabric elegantly frames the windows. Contrasting elements are strategically employed throughout the home, as seen with sleek, lacquered custom consoles paired with Christen Maxwell stools that introduce a metallic shimmer. The family room is a study in layered textures and soft, warm neutrals, featuring two custom sofas upholstered in Schumacher chenille and custom club chairs in Holly Hunt fabric. A custom bronze and cerused oak cocktail table serves as a central piece, and Jim Thompson Fabrics window shades add a subtle pattern. A raffia console from Made Goods contributes an unexpected texture, and the mantle surround, built-ins, and a wool-and-silk area rug are all custom-designed. Custom millwork is a hallmark of the design, with Enger and her team crafting built-ins throughout the home, including practical solutions in the mudroom. The sunroom is designed to maximize natural light, creating a bright and comfortable space. Almost all its furnishings are custom, from the Holly Hunt fabric lounge chair and the wool flat weave area rug to the hexagonal lacquered linen coffee tables. Even the guest bedroom incorporates subtle patterns, with a Cisco Brothers daybed upholstered in Holland & Sherry fabric. The master bedroom exudes tranquility with a textured Wolf-Gordon wallcovering. The custom bed is upholstered in Holly Hunt fabric, and the bedding is from Signoria Firenze. A dark, vintage sunburst mirror above the bed creates a striking contrast against the room's lighter colors, flanked by two Visual Comfort lamps on custom nightstands. A plush lounge chair at the foot of the bed offers additional comfortable seating. The home also includes custom-designed cabinetry by J. Patryce Design for an office nook, showcasing the comprehensive and personalized nature of the project. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomFurnishings #TexturedInteriors #Wallcoverings #PelhamNewYork #JoanEnger #JPatryceDesign

This article explores the architectural trend of integrating interior courtyards and gardens into modern home designs to enhance natural light, ventilation, and a connection to nature. It highlights ten distinct residences that effectively implement this concept, transforming central, often dark, areas into vibrant, enjoyable spaces. Each example showcases how different architects have adapted the interior courtyard idea to various contexts and design philosophies. The Hanging Rock House by Six Degrees Architects in Melbourne features an open-to-the-sky interior garden that provides panoramic views and can be enjoyed from multiple indoor spaces. Fougeron Architecture's Tehama Grasshopper penthouse in San Francisco, located in a renovated warehouse, incorporates a glass-enclosed courtyard on its top floor, bringing the outdoors into an urban setting. In Peru, Oscar Gonzalez Moix's Casa Cachalotes draws inspiration from its lush surroundings, creating a double-height interior garden that floods the ground floor with daylight. The Cube House, designed by John Maniscalco Architecture, includes a two-story atrium open to the sky, ensuring that all areas of the house benefit from natural light, fresh air, and greenery. BoA Studio Architetti's private residence in Treviso, Italy, features a central helical staircase adjacent to a full-height, glass-enclosed greenhouse, introducing natural elements that contrast with the predominantly white interior. In Sydney, Australia, Elaine Richardson Architect's Open House is designed for abundant light, incorporating an atrium with sliding glass doors that open on three sides to create additional flexible space for entertaining. Klopf Architecture, based in San Francisco, expanded an Eichler house by adding an atrium in the hallway, effectively channeling light and nature into the new extension. Hufft Projects' U-shaped Curved House design positions a central courtyard to maximize light throughout the day and integrate nature into the home's core. The Courtyard House by NO Architecture in Aurora, Oregon, is structured around a central courtyard that serves both as a source of light and air and as a spatial divider for daily living activities. Lastly, HYLA Architects' semi-detached Greenbank Park house in Singapore features a two-level courtyard with a frangipani tree set within a pond, establishing a striking natural focal point for the kitchen, dining, and living areas. These examples collectively demonstrate the versatility and aesthetic appeal of incorporating interior green spaces into modern architectural designs. #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CourtyardGardens #NaturalLight #GreenLiving #ResidentialDesign #SustainableDesign #HomeIntegration #ArchitecturalInnovation

Designer CeCe Barfield Thompson's Gramercy Park apartment reflects a blend of classic design and modern family functionality. Having dreamt of living in Gramercy Park since moving to New York, Thompson found an apartment with a formal layout that reminded her of the classic spaces she encountered at Bunny Williams’s firm. This formal structure, featuring separate entry, gallery, kitchen, living, and dining rooms, proved highly functional for a busy family, allowing for distinct purposes for each space and providing areas for both individual work and communal activities. The design philosophy emphasizes function alongside aesthetics, particularly important in New York City where space is at a premium. Color plays a crucial role in distinguishing the character of each room. For instance, the study, with its chocolate brown hue, is designed to be an intimate evening room, TV room, and guest room, thriving without abundant natural light. In contrast, the dining room, also receiving less natural light, features a grid of hand-screened color-block prints that create a radiant, psychedelic window effect. The master bedroom serves as a creamy white refuge, providing a calming retreat from the vibrant colors elsewhere. Throughout the apartment, Thompson aims to infuse classic elements with a fresh and inviting feel, avoiding pastiche. Historical inspiration is evident in various design choices, such as the entry-hall walls, which feature 19th-century pastoral murals reinterpreted with a black-and-white palette and enlivened by touches of sunshine yellow in the artwork and upholstery. The living room combines white walls, tonal carpet, and vibrant green curtains, creating a contemporary backdrop for 19th-century American paintings and Louis XVI chairs. The designer intentionally gives pieces ample space to breathe, streamlining layouts and maximizing open areas. Whimsical elements, like fringe on the library sofa or ornate mirrors, are strategically placed against austere backgrounds to intrigue the eye without overwhelming the senses. The apartment is also designed for entertaining, featuring a china closet for convenient storage of dining essentials. Thompson enjoys creating captivating table settings with pretty layers and playful details, including thoughtful touches like place cards and open wine bottles to make guests feel at ease. The dining room, with its café chairs and sofa-ticking upholstery, evokes an easygoing, garden-like atmosphere. The designer's commitment to sourcing items from admired individuals creates a sense of personal connection throughout the home. Nature-inspired motifs are woven into almost every room, incorporating floral, bird, and tree designs, along with shades of green and blue, as a tribute to the lush character of Gramercy Park. The neighborhood itself is portrayed as a vibrant community, with friends hosting musicales and the park serving as a communal backyard. This sense of connection extends both indoors and outdoors, creating an environment where the designer feels surrounded by friends. The article provides a detailed tour of the apartment, highlighting specific design elements and their functional and aesthetic contributions to the home's overall ambiance. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #GramercyPark #NewYorkCity #CeCeBarfieldThompson #ClassicModern #FunctionalLiving #NatureInspired #EntertainingHome

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

In a downtown New York apartment, designer Courtney McLeod of Right Meets Left Interior Design transformed two combined units into a vibrant, family-friendly living space, centered around a 40-foot botanical wallcovering. The clients desired an interior that was both sophisticated and playful, suitable for a family with two children. McLeod's vision brought to life a blooming oasis amidst the urban landscape. The design process began with the selection of Menagerie Chinoiserie by Voutsa, a lively botanical wallcovering featuring peacocks, storks, and monkeys. This choice established the foundational color palette for the entire apartment, inspiring a rich tapestry of jewel tones throughout. McLeod incorporated hot-pink and yellow in the sitting area, deep green walls in the main bedroom, and metallic wallpaper in the hallway connecting the children's rooms. The use of varied floral prints, including a Christian Lacroix fabric on the main bedroom's headboard, further enhanced the garden-like aesthetic. Functionality and durability were key considerations for a family home. McLeod addressed these needs by utilizing performance fabrics for furniture and commissioning a custom acrylic top for the dining table, ensuring resilience against daily wear and tear. The designer noted that the vibrant Voutsa mural was chosen, in part, because it would cleverly mask minor imperfections, such as stray marker marks from children. The apartment's floor plan, initially conceived by architect Jory Schwartz of SH Projects, was already largely established when McLeod began her work. Her contribution focused on introducing flexibility through furniture arrangements, allowing for adaptable spaces that could easily transition between entertaining guests and accommodating the everyday activities of a busy family. Each room was meticulously detailed to reflect the overall theme while serving its practical purpose. In the living room, custom Makrosha rugs and a sofa from O. Henry House upholstered in Threads Meridian velvet by Lee Jofa contributed to a luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere. The main bedroom features a dramatic headboard, freehanded by McLeod, covered in Jardin Des Reves Prisme by Christian Lacroix fabric from Osborne & Little, complemented by Benjamin Moore's Colonial Verdigris paint. The dining room, equipped with a Miles Redd for Ballard Designs set, is safeguarded by the custom acrylic table topper and chairs upholstered in Élitis performance velvet, adding both glamour and protection. A dark hallway between the children's rooms was brightened with a metallic, scratch-and-sniff B-A-N-A-N-A-S! wallcovering by Flavor Paper, with trim painted in Sherwin-Williams' Confident Yellow and foreground in Benjamin Moore's Apple Green. The children's room itself features Apple Green paint from Benjamin Moore, with a vintage Italian pendant from Chairish. The kitchen, designed by Jory Schwartz, was integrated into McLeod's scheme by painting the island in Benjamin Moore's Blue Danube and installing gleaming Flos pendants. The main bathroom extends the animal motif with a Mind the Gap wallcovering, Beverly Hills in Mint, featuring flamingos, and walls painted in Benjamin Moore's Frosted Petal. This project demonstrates a successful integration of bold design choices with practical family living, resulting in an apartment that is both visually captivating and highly functional. The apartment stands as a vibrant testament to incorporating personal style and a sense of wonder into a metropolitan dwelling. #InteriorDesign #NYCapartment #OpenFloorPlan #WallMural #BotanicalTheme #FamilyHome #PerformanceFabrics #JewelTones #RightMeetsLeftInteriorDesign

The Private Brussels Residence features an innovative design by architect Philippe Samyn and botanist Patrick Blanc, located on the outskirts of Brussels. This four-story house is distinguished by its comprehensive integration of vegetation, covering three of its facades and its entire roof. The project, which took eight years to construct with an additional year dedicated to refining plant selection, represents Patrick Blanc’s first opportunity to envelop an entire house in vegetation, including the rooftop. The residence serves as both a home and workplace for a cinematographer and his family. The design philosophy centers on creating privacy and a natural aesthetic on the north, east, and south elevations, which are adorned with curved, vegetated facades. In contrast, the west facade is entirely glass-walled, providing extensive views and exposing the interiors of the ground, first, and second floors. The initial concept for the vegetated facade involved ivy and a patinated copper roof, but it evolved to incorporate a diverse selection of exotic plants chosen by Blanc, extending seamlessly to cover the roof. Construction involved a standard process for vertical gardens, utilizing scaffolding to install a metal structure, attach PVC panels, staple irrigation fabric, and set up a hydroponic irrigation system before planting. The same methodology was applied to the green roof. Patrick Blanc carefully curated numerous plant species to suit the lush, semi-circular facade, considering sun exposure patterns and microclimates. The plant palette for the rooftop was more selective, primarily featuring Aubrieta, Cerastium, Delosperma, Iberis, and Sedum. The house also incorporates a sustainable water management system, collecting rainwater from the rooftop edges for irrigation, supplemented by a well, with any runoff being recycled. The interior layout includes the entry hall, a family room, and a kitchen on the street level, an existing small house incorporated into the design. The living room and stairway are part of a new extension. The second floor accommodates the master bedroom with its bathroom, along with five children’s rooms and sanitary facilities. These children's rooms are designed with mezzanines protected by textile netting, leading to the glass-walled facade. The vegetated roof spans approximately 360 square meters (3,875 sq ft), and the living vertical garden wall covers about 2,100 sq ft. This project highlights a significant advancement in residential green architecture, showcasing how a private residence can be transformed into a living ecosystem. The collaboration between architecture and botanical design creates a unique aesthetic and potentially offers environmental benefits such as improved insulation and biodiversity. The Private Brussels Residence has been featured in various publications, including dezeen magazine, designboom, and AECCafe.com, and was notably on the cover of the 2012 Greenroofs & Walls of the World™ 12 Month Wall Calendar. Patrick Blanc's work on this residence is also documented in his book, "The Vertical Garden: From Nature to the City." #GreenArchitecture #VerticalGarden #GreenRoof #SustainableDesign #PatrickBlanc #PhilippeSamyn #BrusselsResidence #BotanicalDesign #EcoFriendlyHome

Living walls are emerging as a prominent trend in urban Honolulu, bringing lush greenery to various spaces. These vertical gardens, a hybrid art form, are primarily attributed to 1st Look Exteriors, a family business with over 12 years of experience in this specialized field. Greg Lee, with a background in landscape architecture and plant nursery expertise, leads the company alongside his wife and business partner, Terri Rios-Lee. They emphasize the complexity involved in creating and maintaining these structures, highlighting that going vertical introduces unique challenges not found in traditional landscaping. Their work involves continuous experimentation with plant varieties, watering systems, and design adaptations, as there is no established manual for vertical gardening of this scale. The state's largest living wall, located at Ward Village, exemplifies the intricate nature of these projects. This particular installation required four years of planning and approximately two weeks for physical setup. It features an impressive array of about 10,000 tropical plants, including bromeliads, syngonium, and various ferns, elegantly arranged on the Anaha condo wall. The watering system is discreetly integrated, ensuring the plants remain hydrated. Beyond Ward Village, 1st Look Exteriors has contributed living walls to several other notable locations across Honolulu, such as the Tommy Bahama Waikīkī restaurant, South Shore Market at Ward, the exterior of Whole Foods Kailua, and two installations at the Pacific Guardian Center’s downtown office complex. These projects range in scale and cost, from smaller residential installations costing hundreds of dollars to large commercial ventures costing thousands. Despite the investment, clients like Howard Hughes Corp. see significant value in these living art designs. Todd Apo, vice president of community relations for Howard Hughes Corp., notes that living walls are a strategic way to introduce nature into urban environments that often lack ample green space. He states that these walls help bring nature to street level, enhancing the aesthetic and potentially the environmental quality of the urban core. The Lees' work is characterized by a deep passion for their craft and a continuous learning process. They often face unexpected issues, such as a client turning off an irrigation system during a rainy period, which led to the demise of vertical wall plants despite the survival of surrounding landscaping. They also highlight the unique advantage of Hawai‘i’s diverse plant palette, which allows them to create vibrant and varied living walls that might not be possible elsewhere. The design considerations extend to color schemes, with doctors' offices often preferring soothing green tones, while other businesses opt for more vibrant colors, such as plants with pink leaves. Terri Rios-Lee stresses the importance of these living spaces in creating healthy and stimulating environments for people. The evolution of their work involves adapting plant selections based on the specific environmental conditions of each location. This adaptive approach ensures the longevity and vitality of the living walls. Their innovative solutions and dedication have transformed vertical gardening into a sophisticated art form that not only beautifies urban spaces but also contributes to a sense of natural tranquility and health. The article underscores the Lees' significant contribution to Honolulu's urban landscape through their pioneering efforts in vertical gardening, showcasing the blend of horticultural expertise, architectural understanding, and artistic vision required for such projects. #LivingWalls #UrbanGreening #LandscapeArchitecture #VerticalGardens #HonoluluDesign #TropicalPlants #SustainableDesign #EnvironmentalArt