Two Months Into Quarantine, I Started Designing an Imaginary Weekend Home

The author shares his experience of designing a new living room from scratch during the COVID-19 quarantine, having moved into a new apartment with no furniture. He utilized the online interior design service Havenly to create a personalized space. The process began with him having a completely bare living room, presenting an opportunity for a fresh start. He discovered Havenly through word of mouth and decided to undertake a home makeover. The author was matched with an interior designer named Ella, who fostered a collaborative design approach. The initial steps involved taking a style quiz, which revealed his preference for mid-century modern aesthetics, and curating a Pinterest board for inspiration. Ella then presented three distinct design concepts: 'Warm Patterns,' 'Cozy Mid-Century Modern,' and 'Soft Blues.' The 'Warm Patterns' concept, while vibrant, was deemed too bold for his preference for a chill, relaxed environment. The 'Cozy Mid-Century Modern' concept was appreciated for its furniture style but considered too bland due to its neutral gray palette, lacking the visual stimulation desired for a prolonged work-from-home setup. The 'Soft Blues' concept, incorporating blues, cozy textures, and a 'beachy chic' vibe, resonated most with the author's bi-coastal identity and was ultimately chosen. Following his feedback, Ella developed a concept board that blended mid-century modern elements with pops of color and wood textures, aiming for a space that felt "both modern and beachy, young and pulled together." The author then made specific furniture selections, opting for a less expensive but aesthetically pleasing rug to manage costs. Havenly provided 3D renderings of the proposed living room, which deeply impressed the author and made the design feel tangible. The ordering process was streamlined through Havenly, allowing for a single online order despite sourcing from multiple vendors. However, this resulted in a significant credit card bill, which the author viewed as an investment. Upon delivery, the author faced the challenge of assembling all the furniture himself due to quarantine restrictions and the absence of delivery assembly services. This involved maneuvering large packages, assembling a dining room table, and a particularly arduous process of assembling a china cabinet for his grandmother's heirloom china. He also assembled a mid-century modern TV stand, working late into the night. Throughout the assembly process, he learned the importance of throw blankets in enhancing decor. A minor setback occurred when the first set of curtains was too short, necessitating an exchange for a longer pair after realizing he hadn't measured the window height accurately. The arrival of a new navy blue sectional couch with a pull-out bed further completed the room, despite collecting lint and dust. He also incorporated plants from a local nursery to add life to the space. Key takeaways from his experience include the affordability of Havenly's services (ranging from $79 for updates to $129 for a complete makeover), the collaborative nature of the design process, the unexpected costs of shipping, the necessity of hands-on furniture assembly, and the recommendation to enlist help for heavy lifting. The author emphasizes that investing in a home makeover can be a positive distraction and a creative outlet during challenging times. Havenly also provided a photorealistic 3D rendering of the completed space, showcasing the potential for flexible furniture arrangements. The article concludes with a disclosure that BuzzFeed may earn a share of sales from linked products.

The Kynttilä cabin, a 150-square-foot prefab structure designed by Helsinki-based ORTRAUM Architects, is located on the Nunnanniemi peninsula in Eastern Finland. This off-grid meditation cottage was conceived to offer a tranquil space that fosters visual and spiritual focus. The architects adopted a Zen philosophy, stripping the design to its essentials and utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) for most of the building, including integrated furniture and the front door. The exterior is clad in larch timber, while the interior showcases the exposed CLT, maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. The inspiration for Kynttilä is deeply rooted in its natural surroundings. Situated in an untouched forested area, the cabin offers views of the water on both sides of the peninsula. The structure's five primary elements, which form its space, share identical dimensions, contributing to the interior's serene atmosphere. The compact interior is designed to accommodate a full-size bed, with an additional bunk bed accessible via a ladder, maximizing the limited space. A significant design feature is the floor-to-ceiling glazing on one end of the cabin, which establishes a strong connection with the external environment. This extensive glazing allows for direct interaction with nature, permitting daylight, weather patterns, and seasonal changes to influence the daily rhythm within the cabin. The exposed CLT on the ceiling and walls, coupled with these large windows, frames the picturesque views of the surrounding forest and waterfront, enhancing the cabin's meditative quality. To minimize environmental impact, Kynttilä was engineered for rapid assembly, taking only a single day to construct. A temporary road was created for the installation process and subsequently removed to preserve the forest's pristine condition. Overhanging eaves provide covered areas at both ends of the cabin, with a slender bench on a raised platform at the back offering an intimate outdoor gathering spot. The cabin is utilized as both a short-term guesthouse and a meditation retreat during the summer months. From an aerial perspective, Kynttilä's close proximity to the nearby lake is evident. The cabin's design ensures that as daylight fades, its interior casts a warm, inviting glow, akin to a lantern or a candle, illuminating the lakeshore. The architects describe Kynttilä as a "mental portal to a higher dimension," where the framed natural views transform into an abstract projection of thoughts, facilitating introspection and a deeper connection with the self and nature. #PrefabHomes #TinyHomes #Cabins #ZenDesign #OffGridLiving #FinnishArchitecture #CLTConstruction #MinimalistDesign #MeditationSpace

The article presents a detailed tour of designer Lauren Sullivan's newly built home in Tennessee, which she intentionally designed to evoke a sense of European charm and history, despite its recent construction. Sullivan's design philosophy is deeply rooted in her childhood experiences, including antique hunting with her grandmother and an early admiration for the characterful homes depicted in European fairy tales. This personal history informed her desire to create a new build that felt timeless and lived-in, rather than freshly constructed. The project was a collaborative effort between Sullivan's interior design studio, Well x Design, and Brooks & Falotico architects. The aesthetic is described as 'Modern European,' a style that subtly blends old-world whimsy with contemporary elements without resorting to pastiche. Sullivan emphasizes the challenges and creative pressures of designing one's own home, especially when aiming for a specific, layered aesthetic. She highlights the importance of restraint in design, ensuring that every detail, from architectural features to interior decor, contributes to the overall vision without overwhelming the space. A key aspect of the home's design is the extensive use of antiques and timeworn materials. Sullivan deliberately incorporated reclaimed stone, aged metals, vintage textiles, and art with visible age and texture to imbue the new build with a sense of depth and history. This slow curation process allowed her to gather meaningful pieces over the four years of construction, preventing a rushed or 'finished' feel. This approach ultimately inspired the launch of her sourcing platform, Well Found, dedicated to antiques and vintage finds. The exterior of the home reflects storybook inspirations, featuring steeply pitched roofs, limestone walls, dormer windows, and copper gutters, contributing to a magical and old-world appearance. Inside, the design emphasizes layers of textures, materials, and contrasts. Sullivan explains that mixing different shapes, styles, and eras creates visual tension and interest, advocating for pairing sculptural modern pieces with rustic antiques or clean-lined furniture with plaster walls and timeworn floors. This blend, she believes, is where the true 'magic' of a soulful home lies. Specific areas of the home are detailed, such as the entryway, which Sullivan considers an 'accidental success' and a perfect representation of her style. It features a French tapestry, an 18th-century Italian console, vintage travertine tables, neoclassical iron benches, and vintage busts, all contributing to a fresh, modern space with clear European influences. The living room similarly showcases a layered approach, with a vintage rug, Schumacher fabric, Dudouyt chairs, and a mid-century Scandinavian light fixture, all chosen over time to create a grounded, inviting, and timeless ambiance. The open flow between the living room, dining room, and kitchen creates a connected feel without being fully open-plan. The kitchen, while practical, features Calacatta Paonazzo countertops, an integrated sink, maximized vertical storage, recessed toe kicks, and furniture-like islands with brass feet and detailed moldings. Flush mounts by Ralph Lauren are used instead of recessed lighting to maintain visual interest. Sullivan also notes the unexpected benefits of building during the pandemic, which, despite delays, allowed for a more intentional and thoughtful decision-making process. The article concludes by emphasizing the personal nature of the project, built with love, memory, and a belief in creating deeply lived-in homes through careful layering. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #EuropeanStyle #AntiqueCollecting #NewBuildDesign #TimelessDesign #DesignPhilosophy #HomeTour

The COVID-19 pandemic, specifically in 2020, served as the unexpected catalyst for the creation of a unique treehouse in Manitou Springs, Colorado. Robin Wall found her home unexpectedly full when her two college-aged children returned from school to continue their studies online. Seeking respite from the confines of the house, the family frequently explored the 40 acres of untouched wilderness surrounding their historic home, a former hunting lodge, where Sutherland Creek flows through. During these nature walks, the children were reminded of a childhood aspiration: to build a treehouse nestled within the branches of the diverse forest, populated by Douglas fir, Ponderosa pine, and blue spruce trees. This shared memory reignited the desire to finally bring their long-forgotten dream to fruition. The family collaborated on an initial concept, envisioning a tranquil, 'zen' retreat rather than a typical clubhouse. To initiate the project, Wall engaged handyman Richard Faldzinski to construct a bridge over Sutherland Creek and a set of stairs, providing access to the chosen building site. This location was strategically selected within a forested plot, uniquely surrounded by water on three sides, offering a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature. The construction of the treehouse itself was entrusted to Ed Ott of D & O Construction, a task made particularly challenging by the remote nature of the site, which lacked both electricity and road access, necessitating creative logistical solutions. Subsequently, designer Natalia Romero was brought in to spearhead the interior design, ensuring the aesthetic and functional elements aligned with the initial 'zen' concept. A core principle guiding the project was the commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The construction team utilized native Douglas fir from a local mill for the main structure, ensuring the treehouse blended harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Further emphasizing this approach, segments of an old metal roof were repurposed from a nearby farmhouse, giving new life to discarded materials. A particularly serendipitous find was a set of 100-year-old French windows, which Wall acquired for a mere $200 from Facebook Marketplace, adding a touch of vintage charm and character to the structure. Inside the treehouse, Natalia Romero's interior design focused on creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Two custom-designed upholstered daybeds, topped with charcoal-linen cushions sourced from Hedgehouse, provide versatile spaces for relaxation, social gatherings, and even overnight stays. These design choices collectively contribute to the treehouse's nature-inspired aesthetic and its function as a cozy hideaway. The treehouse has become a cherished sanctuary for Wall and her family. She describes the ideal scenario as a snowy afternoon, with the wood stove emanating warmth and hot chocolate simmering on its surface, illustrating the profound sense of peace and connection to nature that the space fosters. For Wall, the treehouse represents more than just a physical structure; it is an invitation to decelerate, to appreciate the surrounding natural environment, and to cultivate mindfulness. The entire process, from conception to completion, has been a significant journey for her, serving as an inexhaustible wellspring of inspiration. It has also imparted a valuable lesson on the importance of maintaining an open mind throughout the creative and construction processes, embracing challenges and unexpected opportunities as they arise. #TreehouseDesign #ZenRetreat #PandemicProject #ManitouSprings #SustainableBuilding #RepurposedMaterials #NatureInspired #InteriorDesign #ColoradoHomes

Designer Tania Cassill embarked on a new chapter following her divorce, seeking a home that would serve as a personal sanctuary. With her two older children no longer living at home, she envisioned a fixer-upper where she could incorporate her favorite finishes and personal finds. After a two-year search, Cassill discovered a 1955 beach bungalow in Dana Point, California. The property met her criteria, including walkability, three bedrooms, a garage, and an original fireplace, and was in a condition that allowed for renovation without a complete demolition. The 840-square-foot bungalow required significant updates, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom, as well as an overhaul of its exterior appearance. Cassill's design goals were to create an inviting and comfortable space, filled with inherited and collected treasures, with a subtle French influence. She aimed to blend French design principles and practicality with the inherent style of a 1955 beach bungalow. While the entire house received updates, the kitchen was a focal point of the renovation. Cassill opted to retain the solid oak cabinet bases, which were in good condition, and commissioned new cabinet faces. She chose a deeper stain for the cabinets and invested in new appliances, plumbing, and hardware. The kitchen ultimately became her favorite room, characterized by its beauty and functionality. A prominent La Cornue range and striking Calacatta Monet marble countertops were key elements that contributed to her dream kitchen. Beyond the kitchen, the dining area and living room were refreshed with new paint and hardwood flooring. A significant challenge arose midway through the renovation when it was discovered that the cast iron pipe running the entire length of the house needed replacement, despite prior inspections. Cassill addressed this unforeseen issue by committing to a complete replacement of the cast iron piping to avoid future problems. The completed renovation resulted in a space that reflects Cassill's personal design aesthetic: laid-back, collected, and vintage. She found the experience of designing for herself more challenging than for clients, requiring extensive consideration for each decision to ensure long-term satisfaction. Ultimately, she expressed contentment with her choices and the final outcome of her redesigned home. #HomeRenovation #BeachBungalow #InteriorDesign #DanaPoint #KitchenRemodel #FrenchInfluence #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeTour #PostDivorce

The article details designer Allison Clouser's journey of transforming a 1980s ranch-style home, initially purchased for renovation and resale, into her own family residence. The property, located just outside Bend, Oregon, in Tumalo, was in its original 1980s condition, requiring extensive renovation. Despite its dated appearance, Clouser recognized its potential for thoughtful cosmetic upgrades and its inherent charm, leading to a shift in her initial intention to sell. Key aspects of the renovation focused on addressing the home's outdated features while preserving its rustic charm. A significant challenge was the original wood-paneled ceiling, which had developed an orange, lacquered finish over time. Instead of painting it, Clouser opted for sandblasting to restore the cedar to its natural state, then applied a custom oil stain to achieve a warm, organic finish. This meticulous process transformed the ceiling into a central design feature, setting a grounded, textural, and timeless tone for the main living space. The kitchen, initially dark and disconnected, underwent a major transformation to become open and integrated with the living areas. A zellige-tiled hood was chosen over traditional stainless steel, adding softness, texture, and a focal point to the space. The kitchen incorporates Cle Tile's pantry pavers for a lived-in texture, contrasting with sleek marble countertops. Brass accents and Mullan sconces contribute to a collected feel, while a locally made wooden island and sourced glassware add unique touches. Appliances include an Ilve Range and Forte’s panel-ready fridge/freezer for a seamless look. Due to the absence of a formal dining room, a custom-built corner banquette, upholstered in Schumacher’s ‘Camden’ Check, was incorporated. This element visually separates the kitchen and living space while providing a warm, communal, and highly functional dining area. The Fourhands dining table and vintage bistro chairs further enhance the space, complemented by a Lauren Liess x Troy Lighting ‘Arcane’ pendant. A dramatic and playful home bar was created by carving out a wet bar area with an arched opening, covered in woven grasscloth and deep glossy tiles. Fluted cabinetry and open brass shelving elevate the design, making it a vibrant space for entertaining without disrupting the main living area. The living room was designed for balance, combining grounded elements with a refined rustic aesthetic. The restored ceiling, a soapstone fireplace surround, vintage armchairs, and a Moss Home Studio ‘Linda’ sofa in linen contribute to its character. H&M drapes and Sierra Pacific windows ensure ample light, and a library ledge with brass sconces adds a thoughtful, lived-in touch. The bathroom was significantly expanded to create a retreat-like experience, moving from a small, dimly lit space to a light-filled sanctuary. Cle Tile’s pantry pavers were used on the floors, matching those in the kitchen, and Bedrosians Carrara marble was used in the wet areas. Restoration Hardware vanities and Visual Comfort and Pottery Barn lighting and mirrors complete the space, with a freestanding tub strategically placed to offer mountain views. The bedroom, part of a new addition, features Kravet grasscloth-wrapped walls, rich wood tones, Huey Lighting pendants, Pom Pom at Home bedding, and a McGee & Co. throw. An upcycled IKEA PAX unit with custom Kettlewell panels provides a built-in look for storage. A cozy lounge area adjacent to the primary suite was designed with dark, moody tones, custom pillows, McGuire chairs, and equestrian artwork, reflecting the Central Oregon landscape. A built-in bed nook, wrapped in Farrow & Ball’s ‘Salon Drab’ and adorned with a lumbar pillow from Alice Sergeant and Quince bedding, serves as a charming space for naps and guests. The design philosophy of the home is described as an elevated rustic ranch with a refined edge, drawing inspiration from the natural landscape and agricultural heritage of the region. The project, initially intended for resale, became a deeply personal and creatively fulfilling endeavor, showcasing the value of patience and thoughtful design in creating a truly personalized home. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #RanchStyleHome #KitchenRemodel #BathroomDesign #LivingRoomDecor #RusticModern #CustomMillwork #CeilingRestoration

Interior designer Daniella Dolman embarked on a deeply personal renovation of her 1920s cottage in Hamilton, Ontario, transforming it from a small, charming property with limited space into a luminous, open, and colorful home suitable for her growing family. The project was initiated while Dolman was pregnant with her second child, underscoring the immediate need for increased functionality and living area, while also maintaining the original character of the house. Dolman's approach to the renovation was guided by a desire to blend haute couture design details with the practicalities of a family home. She aimed to create a space that was both elegant and inviting, drawing inspiration from her mother's graceful home and a childhood memory of her grandmother's rose-colored bathroom. This personal connection informed her design philosophy, emphasizing softness, femininity, and a sense of ease throughout the interiors. The design incorporated playful and whimsical elements, such as raw silk café curtains, slipcovered stools, and custom millwork with delicate curves, reminiscent of Art Deco aesthetics. Functionality for a busy family was a primary consideration. The original kitchen, measuring only eight by six feet and feeling isolated, was completely re-imagined. Walls were removed, and the former dining room was repurposed to create an expansive, light-filled kitchen that now serves as the central hub for cooking, socializing, and family activities. A custom-designed breakfast bar with a swooped edge became a key architectural feature, adding both grounding presence and gentle curves, a motif echoed elsewhere in the home. Large windows were installed to maximize natural light and connect the indoor spaces with the surrounding environment. The layout was reconfigured to ensure a seamless flow between rooms. The former dining room became the new kitchen, the old living room was transformed into a dining area, and a new living room was situated to open directly onto the garden. This intentional arrangement created a fluid sequence of spaces connected by light and a consistent soft aesthetic. The color palette throughout the home is notable for its tender yet daring combinations, including powdered blush, sun-washed marigold, and deep eggplant, applied in a way that feels both intimate and unexpected. For instance, the dining room features buttery yellow ceilings and bold black chairs, creating a dramatic contrast. A round dining table was chosen to foster conversation and intimacy. In the living room, a neutral base is enriched with varied textures, aiming for a balance between feminine whimsy and English drawing-room romance. This space was conceived for shared family moments like reading and listening to music. The primary bedroom features a deeper, more saturated color scheme for a grounding effect, offset by a pale pink custom headboard and soft bedding, maintaining the home's inviting style. The main bathroom showcases elegance through minimalist design, featuring a floating double vanity crafted from thick marble without visible hardware, evoking the sophisticated simplicity of a Parisian atelier apartment. Ultimately, Dolman's renovation successfully married curated design with everyday family life. The home reflects a joyful and whimsical spirit, using bold color combinations and personal touches that harmoniously blend nostalgia with modernity. It is a space composed not just of rooms but of colorful visions, inviting inhabitants to delight in small details and experience beauty and ease in equal measure. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CottageRemodel #FamilyHome #FeminineDesign #FunctionalLiving #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalRedesign

This article compiles Architectural Digest's most popular 'conversation stories' from 2020, focusing on topics that transform a house into a home, including community, comfort, family, and design history. It features a curated list of seven articles that resonated most with readers during a challenging year, aiming to provide insights for a more balanced life. The first highlight is a guide on setting up an effective work-from-home space, a crucial topic as many transitioned to remote work. Cognitive scientist Anja Jamrozik's five essential elements for productivity are discussed, along with practical tips for optimizing a home workspace to prevent discomfort and enhance focus. Next, the article delves into the phenomenon of Cottagecore, an aesthetic and lifestyle movement that gained significant traction, especially on platforms like TikTok. Davina Ogilvie, founder of Wovn Home, describes Cottagecore as an embrace of a simpler, sustainable existence in harmony with nature, characterized by a romantic and nostalgic English countryside style. Another popular feature listed is a selection of 13 incredible cabins available on Airbnb. These cabins are presented as idyllic retreats offering rustic charm, amenities like wood-burning stoves and claw-foot tubs, and the opportunity for disconnection from technology and daily news, making them popular choices for relaxation and escape. The compilation also addresses relationship challenges during quarantine, offering advice on how to maintain a healthy love life amidst the stresses of a global pandemic. It acknowledges the difficulties faced by both new and long-term couples living in close quarters and provides strategies for fostering connection and self-care. For those interested in real estate, the article includes a piece on identifying homes with "good bones." This section explains what professionals look for in a property to determine its inherent value and potential, distinguishing between a sound investment and a potential money pit, aiding prospective homeowners and casual Zillow browsers alike. In response to social events of 2020, the article features a guide on actively supporting protestors from home. Published in June, this piece emphasizes that participation in movements like Black Lives Matter doesn't always require physical presence. It outlines various ways individuals can contribute to justice and amplify the movement remotely during the pandemic. Finally, the collection concludes with an exploration of how previous epidemics have influenced home design. This historical perspective offers insight into how creativity and ingenuity in architecture and design have addressed public health concerns throughout history. Focusing on the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it highlights specific design elements, such as subway tile, that emerged from efforts to prevent disease spread, demonstrating the lasting impact of health crises on our living environments. #HomeDesign #WorkFromHome #Cottagecore #AirbnbCabins #RelationshipAdvice #HomeBuying #EpidemicImpactOnDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #ArchitecturalHistory

Interior designer Daniella Dolman embarked on a deeply personal renovation project, transforming her 1920s cottage in Hamilton, Ontario, into a functional and beautiful home for her growing family. Facing the challenge of adapting a small, character-filled property to meet modern family needs while preserving its original charm, Dolman focused on creating a space that balanced elegance with livability. The renovation expanded the cottage from one bathroom and a tiny kitchen to a three-bath, four-bedroom house, emphasizing light, openness, and soft colors. Dolman described the process as emotional, designing not just a house but a 'feeling' for her daughters. She aimed to carry forward her mother's legacy of a beautiful, orderly home, but through a softer, more personal approach. A key inspiration was a childhood memory of her grandmother's rose-colored bathroom, which evoked a sense of intimate, feminine warmth. The design incorporates playful and feminine elements, such as raw silk café curtains, slipcovered stools reminiscent of a bygone era, and custom millwork with delicate curves nodding to Art Deco femininity. Dolman emphasizes that the home is designed for delight in small things, inviting residents to eat cake, observe light on painted ceilings, and understand that elegance and joy can coexist. A major functional change involved reimagining the kitchen, which was originally small and disconnected. By opening walls and repurposing the former dining room, a larger, open-concept kitchen was created. This new kitchen became the emotional heart of the house, suitable for cooking, socializing, and working. A La Cornue range was a non-negotiable, along with quad doors connecting to the back studio, fostering indoor-outdoor living. A swooped-edge breakfast bar anchors the space, serving as a sculptural and practical gathering point. The kitchen's design prioritizes fluidity, connecting seamlessly with the reconfigured living and dining areas. The dining room features a bolder, buttery yellow color palette with black chairs for a dramatic contrast. An oversized pendant light acts as a sculptural focal point above a round marble dining table, chosen for its ability to foster intimate conversation. The ceiling, painted a joyful yellow, casts a golden glow, inspired by designer Rose Uniacke's restrained use of the color. The living room maintains a calm, neutral palette, with interest added through varied textures and layers, reflecting Dolman's vision of 'feminine whimsy and English drawing-room romance.' It's a space intended for family activities like reading and listening to music. The primary bedroom embraces depth and saturation with dark walls, softened by a pale pink custom headboard and Bella Notte linens to create an inviting atmosphere. The main bathroom features a floating double vanity carved from thick marble, with invisible hardware, aiming for an open, tonal, and intentional Parisian atelier aesthetic. Overall, the renovated home achieves a balance between curated design, functionality for family life, and a joyful, whimsical spirit. It combines bold color combinations and personal touches, blending nostalgia with modernity. The interior style is described as a 'quiet romance suspended between English charm and Parisian elegance,' utilizing a tender yet daring palette of powdered blush, sun-washed marigold, and deep eggplant. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CottageRemodel #FamilyHome #DesignInspiration #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign

This article explores the tranquil and thoughtfully designed home of Dave Wheaton and Melodee Meyer, founders of Martial Arts Family Fitness in Santa Barbara. The property, located at 1825 Stanwood Drive, is characterized by its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, reflecting a 'zen sanctuary' aesthetic that is both contemporary and influenced by Eastern designs. The house sits on an acre of land, featuring two distinct entrances. One entrance off Stanwood Drive includes a bridge over a stream leading to the front door, while another off Conejo Road features a wooden gate, bamboo fence, and Chinese dragon statues, opening into a lush courtyard with a bubbling stone fountain. This courtyard, with its fern-filled landscape, serves as Melodee's personal tropical retreat, inspired by her and Dave's time in Hawai‘i. Throughout the grounds, stone statues, many sourced from Bali, are strategically placed, enhancing the unique and serene outdoor environment. Inside, the home opens with a double-high glass front door, complemented by an original light fixture from The Biltmore hotel, leading into a red-walled foyer. Three steps descend into a spacious yet cozy living room, distinguished by vaulted ceilings, skylights, an elegant gray fireplace, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Hidden features, such as a painting that slides away to reveal a television screen and a climate-controlled wine cellar concealed behind a closet door, demonstrate a blend of artistic design and practical functionality. The kitchen and its adjacent dining area are designed for entertaining, featuring bamboo floors that extend from the living room. The kitchen is equipped with stainless-steel appliances, soapstone countertops, a long breakfast bar, and a large island, all accented by a subway-tiled backsplash, dramatic lighting, and a red accent wall that ties into the entryway's color scheme. The master bedroom suite, located in a separate wing on the first floor, offers luxurious amenities, including 'his and hers' closets, a bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, a cozy window seat, and a redwood sauna. A private deck accessible from the master suite features a hot tub, ideal for stargazing. The upper level provides additional family space or office options with two more bedrooms and bathrooms. The home encompasses a total of three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, incorporating modern upgrades like solar power and radiant floor heating, alongside practical elements such as a conveniently located laundry room near the master suite, all contributing to an effortlessly enjoyable living experience. The outdoor spaces are a significant highlight, featuring winding paths through succulent gardens, past boulders, and various fruit trees, including persimmon, pomegranate, and avocado. The multi-level grounds are meticulously landscaped with walls and pathways, creating secluded nooks and hideaways perfect for relaxation. Several gazebos and a pergola offer additional shaded areas, while a stairway leads to a private spot by the creek. A large, terraced outdoor dining area, conveniently situated near the kitchen, is designed for extended use throughout the year. A walled alcove with seating around a gas fire pit provides an intimate setting for social gatherings. The property at 1825 Stanwood Drive is presented as a distinctive sanctuary, currently available for sale through Bartron Real Estate Group of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties. #HomeDesign #ZenSanctuary #SantaBarbaraRealEstate #MartialArtsFamilyFitness #OutdoorLiving #ContemporaryDesign #AsianInfluences #LuxuryHome

The author shares an experience of experimenting with various AI interior design tools. Before engaging with these applications, the author describes a humorous scene of tidying her home to avoid judgment from the algorithms, highlighting a common human-like apprehension towards AI. The article then delves into the functionality and user experience of several AI design tools, including Home Visualizer, Reimagine Home AI, Home Designs AI, Interior AI, Collov AI, AI Room Planner, and Palazzo. These tools typically allow users to upload a photo of their space, input style preferences, and receive design suggestions. However, the author quickly discovers that these tools often struggle with practical aspects, such as distinguishing between everyday clutter and actual decor, leading to impractical design suggestions like incorporating a pile of coats as a lumpy furniture piece. A significant challenge noted across these applications is their tendency for glitches, slowdowns, and error messages, demanding considerable patience from the user. For instance, Palazzo displays crude spinning tool graphics, while Reimagine Home attempts to distract users with inspirational quotes during processing delays. The design outcomes generated by these tools ranged from underwhelming to bizarre. A request for a “Martha Stewart-style makeover” of a kitchen resulted in only minor cosmetic changes and the addition of a needlepoint wall hanging, rather than a significant renovation. Similarly, applying a "Fuchsia Fun, Midnight Black Elegance, and Glittering Gold Grandeur" palette to the kitchen only produced two hot pink fluffy rugs and a brass chandelier, failing to deliver the expected 'glam' transformation. A Scandinavian-style request for a drab bathroom resulted in minimal changes, primarily a new green soap dispenser, with existing unsightly items remaining. Despite these shortcomings, some AI engines demonstrated a surprising level of design literacy. Rooms GPT, for example, offered advanced filter options that allowed users to select aesthetics inspired by renowned designers such as Bunny Williams, Jacques Garcia, and India Mahdavi, although the author concluded that human designers like India Mahdavi are not yet at risk of being replaced. The most promising feature found was Home Visualizer’s “Fusion” functionality, which enabled users to upload an inspiration image (like a Pinterest board photo) alongside their room photo. This feature successfully integrated elements from an inspiration image of Svenskt Tenn into the author’s dining room, preserving existing preferred items while adding color and pattern in a "Frankian style." The author's primary realization was that while these AI tools could generate numerous visual variations, they lacked the expertise for practical problem-solving. This led the author to experiment with ChatGPT's Pro version (GPT-4), which offers both image analysis and generation capabilities. By instructing ChatGPT to act as a famous interior designer with excellent taste, warmth, wit, and honesty, the author uploaded photos of her living room and requested improvement suggestions. ChatGPT responded with constructive and detailed advice, complimenting the existing space before suggesting enhancements for architectural features, lighting, and window treatments. It proposed specific curtain materials and styles, suggesting sources like Kravet, Schumacher, and Romo, and even provided cost breakdowns. The interaction with ChatGPT felt more like a collaborative design consultation, focusing on strategic thinking and practical decisions rather than just superficial aesthetic changes. The author concludes that while specialized AI design tools offered instant visual transformations with limited depth, general-purpose AI like ChatGPT, when appropriately prompted, provided a more comprehensive and genuinely helpful design consultation experience, although the author maintained her stance against tidying specifically for an algorithm. #AIInteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTools #ChatGPT #InteriorDesignTrends #TechnologicalInnovation #SmartHome

The article profiles the Montecito dwelling known as the Quarry House, which has been reimagined by designer Tamara Honey of House of Honey. The property, originally a modest wooden cabin built in the 1950s by architect Lutah Maria Riggs, has been transformed into a serene and soulful sanctuary, reflecting Honey's personal aesthetic while honoring Riggs' original vision. The exterior of the Quarry House is now clad in blackened cedar, a design choice that references the traditional Japanese 'shou sugi ban' technique, involving charring wood for preservation. Honey integrated original boulders into the decking, forming a sculptural 'social stair' intended for gatherings. The entire property, including the pool and wraparound deck, along with the surrounding landscape, has been re-envisioned to align with Honey's design principles. Inside, the home combines 'Japandi' restraint—a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics—with a sense of Californian warmth. The interior design emphasizes natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass, complemented by vintage furnishings, sculptural art pieces, and carefully selected artwork. This approach creates a minimalist yet inviting atmosphere that is both sophisticated and comfortable. The home's design is subtly influenced by Montecito's bohemian character and is conceptualized as a retreat from urban life. The Quarry House is situated within a former rock quarry on a one-acre hillside, nestled between the Santa Barbara foothills and the Santa Ynez mountains. This location offers extensive views of both the mountainous terrain and the ocean. Honey's renovation maximizes this natural setting by creating a strong connection between the indoors and the outdoors. To enhance this connection, Honey opened up the interior spaces and introduced two prominent glass volumes. One of these additions houses a new primary suite, while the other serves as a freestanding guesthouse. Despite the main house measuring just 1,800 sq ft, with an additional 550 sq ft in the guest quarters, the design makes it feel spacious. The boundaries between the interior and the landscape are intentionally softened, contributing to an expansive feel. Honey's work on the Quarry House demonstrates how size is not a limiting factor in creating a deeply personal retreat. The project successfully balances historical heritage with modern innovation, and natural elements with intentional design. The resulting home reflects Honey's distinctive design philosophy, which is described as soulful, playful, and unexpected, culminating in a unique living space that respects its origins while embracing contemporary design principles. #InteriorDesign #MontecitoHome #TamaraHoney #HouseOfHoney #QuarryHouse #LutahMariaRiggs #JapandiStyle #CalifornianArchitecture #SustainableDesign

The article presents an interview with interior designer Trish Lynn, founder and principal designer of Colette Interiors, who shares insights into the remodel of her Craftsman-style home in Chatham, New Jersey. Built in 1952, the house is situated in a heavily wooded area, inspiring Lynn to integrate natural elements and organic finishes into the interior design. Lynn emphasizes the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality, particularly as she designed the home for her family of five. She aimed for an elevated yet approachable environment, prioritizing livability and practicality in every space. A key focus of the renovation was to enhance the functionality of various areas. The mudroom, for instance, was specifically redesigned to better serve the family's needs. The kitchen underwent a transformation to achieve a bright and airy feel, incorporating classic white elements alongside organic textures and natural materials, such as rustic beams and an overgrouted stone wall in the butler's pantry. Lynn reflects on a minor regret, wishing she had replaced the kitchen countertops with authentic stone during the initial renovation, rather than keeping the existing ones. The initial renovation phase lasted approximately six to eight weeks, with subsequent, smaller-scale improvements implemented over time. The outdoor environment significantly influenced the interior design choices, as exemplified by the butler's pantry, which features an overgrouted stone backsplash and a rustic beamed door to echo the natural surroundings. For the dining room, Lynn opted for a minimalistic and clean-lined approach, utilizing low-profile furnishings to maintain an approachable and casual atmosphere. The great room was conceived as a natural yet well-defined space, characterized by intentional transitions between rooms and ample negative space to create a casual and uncluttered ambiance. In the living room, a neutral and warm color palette was chosen to foster a light, bright, and inviting environment, integrating rustic woods, textured furnishings, and layered organic materials to connect with the wooded exteriors. The home office stands out as the only space with a darker color scheme, offering a cozy contrast to the rest of the house. The primary bedroom was designed as a serene sanctuary, with its primary focus directed towards the outdoor views. It features a warm white palette, organic textures, and materials like a stone-surround fireplace and whitewashed wood ceilings. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Simply White, and the stone fireplace surround was achieved using stone veneers and overgrouted joints by a mason, reinforcing the natural and tranquil aesthetic throughout the home. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #FamilyHome #CraftsmanStyle #ColetteInteriors #NaturalElements #FunctionalDesign #KitchenDesign #Mudroom #LivingRoomDesign #BedroomDesign

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

Brooklyn-based photographer Sharon Radisch transformed her 653-square-foot studio apartment, located on the 39th floor with views extending to the Verrazzano Bridge, after two years of living with an open layout. Her lifestyle, which includes leisurely Saturday mornings spent reading and engaging in various creative pursuits like painting and furniture design, emphasizes calm and intentionality within her space. The apartment, despite its relatively small size, felt expansive due to its views and a full kitchen, which was a significant draw for Radisch when she moved in October 2020. The primary challenge was to create separation within the open studio plan without making the space feel cramped. Radisch initially experimented with a fabric sheet and tension poles before embarking on a DIY room divider project. She constructed a freestanding structure using a lightweight corrugated PVC roofing sheet, applying one coat of primer and two coats of Benjamin Moore's 'Mediterranean Teal' paint. This wavy, faux wall was then supported by stone lamp bases and poles, effectively delineating a bedroom nook from the main living area. The choice of teal was the result of 20 swatch tests, aiming for a soothing dark blue-green hue. To ensure visual continuity and prevent the room divider from appearing as an isolated accent, Radisch extended the teal paint to the surrounding walls of her bedroom nook and a portion of the living room. Despite this bold color application, she describes her overall style as minimalist, emphasizing her desire to avoid an entirely beige apartment. This careful integration of color contributes to a harmonious aesthetic throughout the living space. Radisch's approach to decorating extends to her art display, which she curated to maintain a sense of flow and dynamism. Inspired by a Guggenheim exhibition, she intentionally utilized negative space between smaller artworks in her living room, even mounting one piece near the ceiling. This unconventional arrangement guides the eye upwards and around the room, making the space feel more open and connected rather than divided by a horizontal line of art. A cherished possession is an announcement card for Jean-Michel Basquiat’s second art show, which holds significant personal value to her. Further demonstrating her creative and resourceful decorating techniques, Radisch innovatively displayed a plug-in pendant light in her bedroom. Instead of a single swag, she employed multiple cord holders to create a zigzag pattern, adding visual interest to a pointed corner. She also transformed an awkward hallway space next to her kitchen, leading to the bathroom and closets, into a gallery-like area. By painting this section an inky black, she embraced its lack of natural light and enhanced the contrast of framed artworks. Her bathroom, which she felt was too sterile, was enlivened with green paint and a more casual arrangement of art, reflecting her belief that she is happiest when art is omnipresent. These design choices highlight Radisch's ability to personalize a small rental, making it functional, aesthetically pleasing, and a reflection of her artistic personality through thoughtful DIY solutions and strategic color and art placement. #SmallSpaceLiving #DIYHomeDecor #StudioApartment #InteriorDesign #RoomDivider #TealPaint #HomeTour #ArtDisplay #MinimalistStyle

The article details a significant home renovation project undertaken by Nick and Jen Friedman in Beach Park's waterfront "Pirates Cove," following their initial full-home renovation in 2017. The couple, with Nick being the co-founder of College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, aimed to create a residence that seamlessly blends sophisticated entertainment spaces with practical daily living areas for their family of six. Completed in 2024, this three-story remodel and addition was a collaborative effort involving the Friedmans and interior designer Jana E. Bryan, principal designer of Jana Elizabeth Design House. The outcome is a home characterized by a five-star resort ambiance, coupled with comfort and personal relevance. Initially conceived as a modest renovation, the project quickly expanded into a comprehensive transformation. Key structural modifications included relocating the front entrance to establish a more impressive arrival experience and replacing the entire rear wall with folding glass doors. These new doors offer expansive views of the surrounding water, integrating the interior with the picturesque outdoor environment. The additions to the property are extensive, featuring a dedicated cabana room, several new bedrooms to accommodate the family, an upstairs theater room for entertainment, and a distinctive enclosed widow’s walk. This widow's walk has been repurposed into a "think tank" office, providing panoramic 360-degree views of Tampa, serving as both a functional workspace and a scenic lookout point. Regarding the interior design, the main living areas are anchored by neutral color palettes, creating a calm and sophisticated foundation. In contrast, the children’s rooms are vibrant, reflecting individual personalities with bursts of color. A timeless aesthetic is achieved through the use of natural materials, including marble, oak, and pecky cypress. These materials are complemented by carefully selected warm lighting fixtures and bespoke hand-painted artwork, enhancing the home’s refined atmosphere. Visual interest is further introduced through bold geometric elements, notably a dodecagon-shaped staircase crafted from metal and glass, along with unique wallpapers and diverse rich textures throughout the home. Inspired by their extensive travels, the Friedmans sought to infuse a resort-like quality into their home. This was accomplished through a variety of luxurious features and amenities. Examples include heated flooring in the bathrooms, elegantly backlit stone stairs, a specialized tea and juice bar for casual refreshments, and a practical luggage elevator, which adds to the convenience and upscale feel of the residence. The outdoor spaces complement the interior design, with a resort-style landscape greeting visitors with a pull-around driveway, a custom lighted fountain, and a brick entry framed by textured tabby stucco. The back of the home features lush landscaping and an infinity-edge spa, reinforcing the retreat-ready theme. Other notable elements include a striking foyer with a custom metal and glass front door, marble flooring with brass inlay, a lacquered ceiling, and glass-beaded wallpaper. The primary bedroom boasts a linear fireplace and motorized window panels, while the primary bath is elevated with reeded cabinetry, polished marble mosaic flooring, and heated floors. The kitchen is designed with polished dolomite surfaces, mirrored Sub-Zero appliances, and a ceiling-mounted hood for a sleek appearance. The family room incorporates repurposed pecky cypress beams and a red oak tambour fireplace. A tea bar features a countertop-inset Eurowall and a custom lighted tea and coffee cabinet. The dining room includes a large Christopher Guy table, custom artwork, and bronze sliding barn doors. The automated theater room features a starry ceiling and a custom sectional with a central lounge bed. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryRenovation #ResortStyleLiving #TampaRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomHome

This article details the author's experience with a kitchen renovation, highlighting key lessons learned throughout the seven-month process. Initially, the author felt dismayed by the bland architectural plans for their kitchen, which did not align with their vision of a sun-drenched, aesthetically pleasing space. This feeling stemmed from a previous challenge of being 'stuck' in a starter home, a situation where an upgrade was desired but the housing market was unaccommodating, leading to multiple failed attempts to purchase a new house. The turning point came when the author consulted with a close friend, Courtney, an interior designer. Courtney suggested prioritizing form and aesthetic over immediate function, proposing that the kitchen could be designed around a single light fixture, effectively challenging conventional 'rules' of renovation. This approach led to a significant design decision: to forgo upper cabinets in favor of extensive window space, resulting in 24 feet of windows in the new kitchen. This choice initially met resistance from the contractor who worried about cabinet space, but after careful calculation, it was determined that lower cabinets alone would still provide ample storage. This emphasized the importance of thorough planning and number-crunching during a renovation to achieve a desired outcome. Another crucial piece of advice Courtney offered was to understand one's homeowner personality. The designer acted as both a designer and a 'therapist,' probing into the author's lifestyle, such as shopping habits (frequent small purchases versus large bulk buys) and family size, to tailor the kitchen design to their actual needs rather than assuming standard usage. This personalized approach ensured the renovated space truly served the family's daily life. The article also touches upon the marital strains that can arise during a renovation due to financial stress and daily disruption. To mitigate this, the author and her husband defined clear roles, with the author leading the design decisions and her husband providing support. A key concession involved incorporating a deck, which was initially beyond budget but was important to the husband. This compromise, achieved by reallocating funds, ensured both partners felt invested and happy with the final result, demonstrating the value of mutual understanding and compromise in such large projects. Finally, the author recounts instances where trusting her own intuition, despite a contractor's warnings, led to satisfying design choices. These included installing wall-to-wall carpet, choosing a light-colored floor, and hanging lights at a lower-than-normal level. These elements, which the contractor predicted would be regretted, ultimately contributed to the unique and beloved aesthetic of their home, proving the importance of trusting one's own taste and vision in personalizing a living space. The entire renovation process, spanning seven months, ultimately resulted in a home where the family feels significantly happier and the space functions effectively for their lifestyle. #HomeRenovation #KitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeImprovement #RenovationTips #PersonalizedDesign #FamilyLiving #HomeOwnership

The article highlights an unconventional and unique home library created within a former coal silo in Denver's Clayton neighborhood. Journalist Donna Bryson and developer Fred Glick, known for their passion for adaptive-reuse designs, undertook this project. The couple's interest in transforming existing structures into homes began years ago in South Africa. For this particular project, they collaborated with architect Collin Kemberlin to convert a part of a 1942 World War II medical supply depot, originally designed by Temple Buell, into residential spaces. The silo, which adjoins their main residence (a former boiler house), now features two distinct living areas. Beneath the silo's concrete coal hopper, a bedroom was fashioned for their daughter. Above this, the main subject of the article, is the remarkable library. This reading room boasts a heated concrete floor, preserving the silo's original brick walls. New clerestory windows were installed to bring in natural light, enhancing the atmosphere of the space. A prominent feature of the library is its curved steel shelves, custom-fabricated by Colorado Steel, which are accessed by a rolling ladder. These shelves are not only filled with an extensive collection of books but also serve as a display for various artworks. The artworks showcased in the library hold significant personal meaning for Bryson and Glick, as they reflect the diverse and international places the family has lived, including Swaziland, India, and Egypt. The design of the library emphasizes both functionality and a connection to the family's history and experiences, transforming an industrial structure into a deeply personal and cozy retreat. This adaptive reuse project demonstrates a creative approach to home design, offering a distinctive and memorable living space within a historic urban context. The project was originally featured in the February/March 2021 issue of 5280 Home magazine. #HomeLibrary #AdaptiveReuse #CoalSiloConversion #DenverRealEstate #UniqueHomes #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #CustomShelving #ResidentialArchitecture